Blog 2006—2018
Blog 2006—2018
Employee Bike Profile: Josh’s Handsome Devil
Having recently helped Luis spec out a Handsome Devil Josh decided he had to get one of his own. He had a mix of 9-speed Shimano Ultegra and 105 components from a previous build, and then added Ritchey Classic bars, stem, and seatpost. To add some color he used pink bottle cages and cable housing. Other highlights include Tektro Mini-V brakes, Continental Cyclocross Speed tires, Cinelli Caleido...
Employee Bike Profile: Ben’s Touring Rig
Our staff have been setting up some great personal bikes this season. This is the first in a series of employee bike profiles for the next few weeks to show what they personally ride for transportation and enjoyment. Last week Ben took some time off to ride his bike and go camping in Vermont and New Hampshire on his custom Surly Cross Check. He's been piecing this bike together over the past few...
New Arrivals
Who loves new products? We do! We have new arrivals to our retail floor. Above is the Planet Bike Blaze 2-watt combo set. It has a rear Superflash Turbo light and the front is a new, compact version of their trusty Beamer 2-watt light! These are very bright and at just $69.95, an awesome value. Our new basic light set is the XLC Minibeamer. It's a bright, compact two-light set for just $19.95....
Shop Visit: The Coffee Trike
This is San, the entrepreneur behind Boston's The Coffee Trike. You may have seen him around Boston pedaling his custom fixed-gear cargo trike and coffee shop. He happened to be less than a block away when the bond between his chainring and crank failed. He just barely managed to coast to a stop in front of the shop. We only had tools to remove and replace the crank arm, but not re-attach the...
Nexus 3-Speed Hub Tear Down
Eric, a Ph.D. candidate in Mechanical Engineering at MIT, contacted us recently for a project. We donated a Shimano 3-Speed hub to open up and document for a presentation. He sent us back a few photos to show and tell. If you've always wanted, but never have opened up one of these hubs, behold: Thanks again for sharing the photos with us. Best of luck with the project, Eric.
CB at Colliers Tenant Appreciation Day
Late last month Cambridge Bicycle was asked to table for Colliers at their Tenant Appreciation Day. Shreyas and Ben walked over with a couple bikes, a lot of product, and some helpful pamphlets to give out. They had the opportunity to meet and chat with a bunch of friendly people, some experienced cyclists and commuters, and some just beginning cyclists. Colliers also raffled off three bikes...
Luis’ Handsome Devil
Luis came to us looking for a bike for everyday use to save his high end road bike from the extra wear and tear of the city. He and Josh worked together, starting out with a complete Handsome Devil. By the end of their conversation they ended up making some changes to fit Luis' interest and riding style, ending up with a truly unique and excellent build. Custom components include Brooks Yellow...
KHS Green 1
This year has been exciting for classic style city bikes. We've introduced the KHS Green 8 and the KHS Green 3 earlier this summer. We have one new addition to our commuter bike lineup: the Green 1 single speed. It's the same steel frame and general parts kit as the Green 3, only with a single speed wheel. No coaster brake, either: the Green 1 has front and rear v-brakes. We can see this being...
Odyssey Twisted Pedals – Limited Colors
We managed to get our hands on one last shipment of Odyssey Twisted pedals in Grape, Midnight Blue, Construction Orange, and Bright Red. Most of our distributors have been out of stock of these for months - we're stoked to have them in! We also have matching Odyssey Aaron Ross grips for a few of these. Matching grips and pedals are an awesome way to personalize your commuter. If you already...
Ortlieb Ultimate Handlebar Bags
Jersey pockets sometimes just aren't enough. We're stocking a couple Ortlieb waterproof handlebar bags: the Ultimate 5 classic in black, and the Ultimate 6 Plus in grey. Handlebar bags are an awesome addition to any touring setup, or a great primary bag for day trips, light touring, or any ride where you need a little extra room to stash a few necessities or luxuries. Both bags are waterproof,...
First Look: Linus Scout
Looking for a simple, inexpensive city bike for commuting or errands? We have a new addition to our line of city bikes for you: the Scout. It's less expensive than their 3-speed and 8-speed internally geared models, since it uses a standard 7 speed derailleur and grip shifter. The Scout shares similar features to Linus' other renown models: sprung saddle, cushy grips on a swept-back bar, metal...
Ilumenox Nano Brake Light
Sometimes is the simple things that can make a huge impact. We just had our minds blown by the Ilumenox Nano, a $12 light designed to alert other cyclists when you're applying your brakes. The Nano mounts directly to your brake line and uses a spring clip that turns on the light as the brake lever is pulled. It's quick and easy to attach to most cable-actuated rim brake. We set one up with a...
KHS Green 8
Earlier this spring we showcased the new KHS Green 3-speeds for 2013. We have a new addition to our line of city bikes: the KHS Green 8. It uses the same frame geometry as the basic Green, but with a lighter frame made from Reynolds 520 chromoly. The drivetrain uses a more durable crankset and a Shimano Nexus 8 speed hub. It's a practical, lighter upgrade for those who ride longer distances or...
Handsome Cycles Devil Complete
Last week we profiled the 2013 Handsome Cycles She Devil complete. Since then we built up a Devil complete and took some great photos to share: Like the She Devil, the Devil complete is a commuter, day tripper, or light touring bike for those who don't need a heavy bike for fully loaded touring, or a cyclocross race bike for general rides. We like the way it's set up - upright posture, comfy...
Handsome Cycles She Devil
It's not every day we get to introduce a new brand to the area. We're excited to be official dealers for Handsome Cycles. Now in stock are their Devil and She Devil complete builds, and we're able to special order their other models and frames. The She Devil is our kind of bike. It's a light, and comfy commuter bike with the potential to be so much more. We'll be posting photos of the standard...
New Staff Picks
We're always asking our staff what products they'd like to see in the shop. Here are some staff-recommended products we are stocking this season. Above are Superb Track Cranks, a classic, high-polish square taper crankset that would be a perfect upgrade to add a unique detail to a single speed bike (like a KHS Flite 100 or Fuji Feather). If you've purchased a road bike from us with a carbon...
Entry Level Road for 2013
We've covered our Bianchi Nirone 7 2300 and Brava this season, but we have four more models from Jamis in our sub-$1000 road bike range: Steel is a timeless material for a bike due to its solid, comfortable ride, feel, and durability. The Satellite Comp is set up with a Reynolds 520 chromoly frame, carbon fork, Shimano Sora components, with rack and fender eyelets. It has a wide range of gear...
2012 Bianchi Brava sale
Now on sale are our inventory of 2012 Bianchi Brava steel road bikes in the following sizes: 49 cm, 53, 55, and 59 cm. The 2012 Brava was originally $999. Sale price is now $849. We've got something else for you taller folks: We have ONE blood red Brava in a size 57cm. Instead of $949, we're selling this one for a steal at $749. Sale prices are only for models and sizes listed above. Sale prices...
The Fast and the Furley-ous
Raleigh's 2013 Tripper and Furley have just landed again here at CB. Both models are owned by members of our staff and strongly recommended as reliable, simple, and fun bikes for commuting year round. Give us a call if you're interested in putting one on hold for purchase; or having a specific size ready for test ride.
CB Cycling Clinic at MIT
Last week Cambridge Bicycle was invited to an event with the MIT Transportation Department to promote cycling in the MIT community. Ben, Bill, and Bud represented the shop for community outreach. Students, staff, and faculty stopped by for air in their tires, oil for their chain, and a quick safety check to make sure their bikes were road-ready. We also were able to give away some bike maps from...
2013 Jamis Nova Sport
Looking for your next all weather commuter or mixed-terrain bike? We have the Jamis Nova Sport in stock. It's an aluminum frame, disc brake 'cross frame outfitted with Shimano 2300 components (with compact double crankset) and Tektro brakes. It's also outfitted with file tread tires that work great on pavement, and hug the trails at low pressure. The frame and fork have rack and fender eyelets...
KHS Green Relaunch for 2013
The Green is back and better than ever! KHS has stepped up their game with this complete redesign of their time-tested Green series. We just received a shipment of the Green 3 in blue, black, and yellow for the stepthrough frame. Check out the details: The 2013 Green is based around a new steel frame with a Shimano Nexus 3 speed wheelset. They've kept the painted metal fenders, rear rack, and...
Chrome Bags Restock
Our Chrome inventory is now refreshed! We again have the Chrome Mini Metro, Citizen, and Metropolis single-strap messenger bags in multiple colors, including their blacked-out Night Series. We also have the Bravo and New Soyuz backpacks, the Soma sling bag, and Niko camera bag. Chrome accessories, such as their tool bag, accessory pouch, and brick phone holsters are fully restocked. Come get a...
2013 Cyclocross Bikes
It's light. It's fast. It's super versatile. The 2013 Diamondback Steilacoom CCX is a fantastic do-it-all machine whether you're looking to speed up your commute, conquer some rougher roads or trails on the weekend, or enter your first 'cross race. This light and stiff aluminum frame comes with a BB30 bottom bracket to increase stiffness and power transfer but also has super thin seat stays to...
Linus Bags and Accessories
Freshly restocked are Linus bags and accessories for spring. We now have multiple colors of our favorite bags such as their Market Bag, Sac, and Pouch (above). We also have their front and rear racks, lights, grips, and saddles. also in are a few new additions for our 2013 selection... Josh is modeling their new waxed canvas Satchel shoulder bag and pannier. It's water resistant, comes with...
Raleigh Get Out and Ride Rebate
For a limited time Raleigh is offering a $50 rebate for selected aluminum 2013 models and $100 for their selected carbon options. We have a number of models in stock this would apply to, such as the Misceo hybrid with disc brakes, the Revenio Carbon 1.0 road bike, as well as their Talus 29 hardtail, Misceo sport hybrid, and more. This rebate would also apply to any Raleigh special orders on...
Jamis Dragon 29 Sport – 2013 Editor’s Choice Award
Bicycling Magazine just gave the 2013 Jamis Dragon 29 Sport an Editors' Choice Award for Best Value Hardtail. We are now doubly-excited to have one in stock. To quote their review: All three bikes in this category had spirited rides. But the Jamis rode away from the pack, thanks to its steel frame that took the edge off rocks, ruts and other trail obstacles. We didn’t expect to find such a...
Shimano SH-UT70 and Click’R Pedal
We just restocked our selection of Shimano footwear. We're fully stocked with tons of sizes of shoes for road, mountain, cyclocross, commuting, and touring - and pedals as well. We've also added a new model to our lineup, pictured above: Shimano's UT70 commuter shoe with the new SPD Click'R system. While the UT70 is compatible with any two-bolt cleat, it comes stock with a plastic plate that...
2013 Jamis Dragon 29 Sport
Not many people are aware that there's great trail riding that's accessible by riding out, taking the train or subway, or within a short car drive. We have several avid mountain bikers on staff who ride regularly. Since Pete, Ben, and Randy all own Jamis Dragons we're now stocking the Dragon 29 Sport as our mid-range cross country bike for people stoked on mountain biking. The Dragon 29 Sport is...
Used Bike Roundup
We've got the following used bikes in dire need of a new home. As the weather's been getting nicer and nicer each week, these may not last very long. KHS Green, 17", black - $275 KHS Green, Silver, 17" - $250 Raleigh vintage 3-speed, size medium: $265 Jamis Trail 4.0 - brand new chain, cassette, rear derailleur, shift cable, and other parts: 14" ONLY $199! Super cute Raleigh 20" kid's bike...
Jamis Xenith Comp and Icon Pro
We've introduced two more 2013 models for our road bike lineup, both by Jamis. Representing their line of high-end carbon fiber framesets is the Jamis Xenith Comp. Based on a carbon frameset with tapered headtube and oversized bottom bracket shell, and super thin seatstays, the Xenith Comp delivers a high performance ride for road racers and enthusiasts alike. It's outfitted with Shimano 105...
Brooks England Display
We just filled our brand new display case with saddles, bags, and accessories from Brooks. In stock are their carryall bag, tool bag, bar tape, trouser straps, and more. For saddles we have a variety of B17's from their original in all sorts of colors, to their copper hammered model and B17 Select - available in standard and short versions. For road bikes and light touring we have a Swift and...
Peterboro Baskets for Spring
Peterboro Baskets are back in stock for spring! For owners with a classic city bike like a Linus or a Raleigh Classic Roadster, these make absolutely perfect accessories. Peterboro Baskets are handmade locally in Peteroro NH, out of durable hardwood. This year they've introduced a few new additions: They have a new elegant black stain available. We currently have two Original bike baskets in...
2013 Bianchi Impulso and Nirone 7 Series
Bianchi's 2013 Nirone 7 2300 has been in stock for a couple months. Now in are two 2013 models for those looking for a higher grade of performance: the Nirone 7 Tiagra and the Impulso 105. Bianchi's Impulso frameset is made from 7000 series aluminum that's then engineered to ride with an advanced feel. The specially hydroformed monocoque structure features a stiffer feel where it counts, but...
Chrome and Mission Workshop Restock
Our new bag section just got restocked with new shipments from Chrome and Mission Workshop for spring. We have so many options in stock right now - here are just a few: In from chrome are our usual waterproof standbys starting with the Delat and District backpacks for just $110, and the Mini Metro sling bag for $120! We also got in a few extras: Citizen and Mini Metro Night Series editions, the...
Cinelli Caleido Bar Tape
Pete discovered this bar tape this winter - the Caleido by Cinelli. Black perf with confetti color underlay - who could ask for anything else? Only $29.95, too!
New Bikes for 2013
We've received dozens and dozens of new bikes in the past week and ever since our mechanics have been steadfast in building them up. We again have a size run of 2013 Bianchi Volpes in stock from 46cm to 57cm as well as tons of new models we'll be showcasing on our blog. New for 2013 is the Diamondback Insight STI-1. We've always have had the Insight 1 in a full-fledged hybrid and the recent...
Raleigh Revenio 1.0
When it comes to road cycling, no other material is discussed and coveted as widely as carbon fiber. What was once a material reserved for the highest end bikes is now more affordable than ever. Raleigh's 2013 Revenio 1.0 introduces a 10-speed carbon bike at an all new affordable price of just $1800. Unlike other entry level carbon bikes, the Revino does not scrimp out on the features: its...
Spring is Coming
2013 road and cyclocross models are here. Are you ready for spring?
Pitlock Security Skewers
When it comes to bicycle security, it seems that most of the strongest products are also the heaviest. We're now excited to offer an advanced alternative to the standard, heavy New York chain: Pitlock Security skewers. We have two options in stock: a Pitlock security QR skewer set (which works with any standard quick release hub) as well as a QR skewer set with a pitlock seat binder bolt....
2013 Mavic Wheelsets
2013 Mavic wheesets are IN. We just received several models for road (Aksium, Ksyruim, Kysrium Equipe, Ksyrium Elite), track (Eclipse), and cross-country (Crossmax Disc 29). More images to come as we get them hung up and on display.
2013 Mavic Helmets – First Look
Just got our first boxes of Mavic helmets this morning.... ...And they're looking great! We're exited to have these three new models for road and mountain: The Notch is a great mountain biking helmet with removable visor and tons of airflow for $109.95 The Syncro, a lightweight road helmet for racing and training - $124.95 And Mavic's entry level road helmet, the Espoir - for just $99.95! We...
Open Today
We're OPEN today in despite of the snowstorm! Stop in and pick up some of these awesome bells we just got in. We MIGHT be closing early if the weather keeps up so be sure to check back here for updates.
2013 Jamis Dragon 29 Sport
Randy building up a special order 2013 Jamis Dragon 29. Steel hardtails will always have a warm place in our hearts.
Renovation Updates
It's been a crazy couple of weeks in the back of the shop. It seems like only yesterday the partition dividing the shop went up. Just a few weeks ago the back of the shop went from this: To this: Since we set up a staging in the back, our electrician re-did a lot of the lighting in the back. Our new lighting elements for our retail floor have been installed: Our staff have also been pitching in,...
Ben’s DIY 36er
We were taken by surprised when this rolled through the shop this weekend. The owner and builder's name is Ben, and he's working to complete his own 36" mountain bike. It's a complete DIY project from the drawing board down to welding the frame and cutting custom spoke lengths. His ultimate goal is using it for trail riding and maybe some racing. Best of luck to him and the build--we can't wait...
Odyssey Twisted Pedals – New Colors
Odyssey Twisted BMX pedals are back in stock for 9/16" and 1/2" cranks - now with white, brown, and construction orange. We also have Odyssey Aaron Ross grips and Oury Grips to match most options. We love these pedals. Add some flair to your hybrid, single speed, or commuter bike. You won't regret it.
Serfas USB Lighting
It's that time of year where the sun is still setting early in the evening, the temperature is low, and the nights feel darker than ever. Having a bright set of lights is a great safety measure to stay visible on the streets and being able to visually light where you're going is essential to staying safe on bike paths and streets with low lighting. Back in stock are our usual USB-rechargeable...
Mission Workshop Restock
Just the other day we received a couple boxes from Mission Workshop to refresh our inventory. We again have several colors of their Monty and Rummy single-strap messenger bags as well as their Vandal, Fitzroy, and Sanction backpacks. We love having these bags in stock as several of us on staff own and use their bags every day. We have them hanging above the sales floor. Next time you're in,...
Winter Sunsets
The sun's been setting at the very end of Landsdowne Street recently. We've been getting direct sunlight as the sun goes down and the shop's been lighting up like crazy! It only lasts a few minutes but it's a nice warming glow to distract from all the cold weather we've been getting.
Brooks Pickwick Day Pack Are In
In August we received a pre-production model of a new bag from Brooks, the Pickwick. Our first three Pickwicks are now in stock and they look great! We profiled the various features of it this past summer. We're glad to report that the current production run exhibits the same qualities and features. You can find our Pickwicks hanging above our retail floor and we're always happy to pull one down...
2013 Jamis Codas Are Here
We've had the 2013 Jamis Coda Sport in for some time now and just received a near-complete size run to refresh our inventory. The Coda Sport is a perennial favorite of hours but we've got to be honest: the 2013 Coda Comp and Coda Elites and they are looking awesome. Pictured above is the Coda Comp. The frame is Reynolds 520, paired with a carbon fork. It's outfitted with Shimano components for...
2013 Bianchi C2C Nirone 7 2300
Every year we receive customer requests for an affordable Bianchi road bike in their trademark color. For 2013 Bianchi has delivered just that with their coast-to-coast series. In stock is the 2013 C2C Nirone 7 with Shimano 2300 components, in celeste. This bike isn't just about looks: this aluminum frame comes stock with integrated shifters, 31.8mm bars and a carbon fork. At just $799 it's a...
Vintage Parts at Superb’s Webstore
We just moved a bunch of our vintage parts over to Superb's online store. You can find the above Modolo calipers or some Scott Super Brakes, and much more soon to come. They have plenty of new products to check out in the meantime, including Superb frames and accessories and gift cards.
Bailey Works Bags on Closeout
All in-stock Bailey Works bags are now on sale! Check it out: Super Pro Courier bag, pink, size medium - was $169 now 40% off Super Pro Courier bag, yellow, size XL - was $189, now 47% off Courier Super Pro with Laptop Bag, brown. Was $204 now 40% off Citizen Pack, size small, black: Was $199, now 50% off! Two-Strap Work Pack, black. Was $299, now 50% off! These prices are for these particular...
Wheel and Rim Sale
UPDATE: These deals have been long gone! Please call us to see what current deals we have in stock. In the process of cleaning up, we've dug up a bunch o random wheels and rims. Some are weird, some are awesome, and they are all priced to move: Sun Rims 24" (507 mm diameter, 29mm width) BFR - double walled, single eyeleted, 36 hole. Non-machined sidewall. Never built up but has some shop...
Mavic Shoe Clearance
We're running out of space with our shop reorganization efforts. Our current inventory of Mavic clipless shoes are officially on sale for $50/pair. This is an awesome deal BUT this sale only applies to models and sizes in stock only. If we special order you a set of shoes, it will be at standard price. We have two-bolt and three-bolt models - the Avenir, Peloton, Razor, and Pulse. These will not...
Rennovation Specials, Part Two
We have new additions to our Manager's Rennovation Specials. In addition to the models we posted earlier we have a few more bikes priced to move. Same fine print applies: we have limited sizes of these, so first come, first served. We cannot and will not apply these discounts to any other model, special orders, or other inventory. These deals are for these particular bikes only! 2012 Diamondback...
Display Case Update
We just refreshed our register display case with an array of new products as well as some of our old favorites. The top row features matching Odyssey Twisted pedals and Aaron Ross grips. They are our favorite choices for city bikes with riser/cruiser bars. Durable, inexpensive, good looking, and the blue happen to match a blue Brooks B17! In the middle are our selection of high-powered,...
Manager’s Renovation Specials
We're going through some reorganization right now as we're in the process of slimming down our shop's layout for the oncoming renovation. We only have one of the following bikes, so we're putting them on closeout. They will not be displayed on our retail floor, so please be sure to ask us to see a specific one. These prices are only on these particular bikes and sizes, meaning that we will not...
Pardon Our Appearance
Things in our shop are looking a little.different. Yesterday we started rearranging our retail and mechanic spaces in anticipation of our winter renovation. Thank you for your patience as we reorganize and our staff gets used to the new layout. Just to eliminate future worries: we are planning to remain open next month during our shop's aesthetic reboot. Any closure notices (due to...
Kid’s Bikes Report
As of this morning, we have the following kids bikes in stock. Please note that today is about the last day we'd be able to order bikes from our brands and ensure that they'd be able to arrive before Christmas. If you've been putting off a holiday purchase we strongly recommend giving us a call to help you remedy that. The following kid's models are in stock: Diamondback Miz Della Cruz, 20" lime...
Gotham Bicycle Defense Defender Light
Gotham Bicycle Defense is a local startup and a Kickstarter success known for their theft-resistant bicycle lighting. Their story isn't all hype, though. The Defender is a rock solid aluminum light with precisely machined features, six bright LED's, and unique hardware that makes the light tamper-resistant and extremely unlikely to be stolen off your bike. The light itself comes with security...
Used Bike Roundup
Right now we have several used bikes available for under $300! Our used rental bikes are still available in a few sizes for $299, as well as the following options: Super de Luxe (above) - Vintage steel roadster with stem shifters. 53.5 cm seat tube (center to top), 57 cm "top tube" (center seat tube to center head tube). $150 Univega Activa hybrid - Chromoly frame, rear rack, fender eyelets on...
Gift Ideas for Road Cyclists
Having trouble picking something for the road cyclist in your life? We have tons of gift ideas in stock that would make any roadie happy. Here are just a few employee-tested and recommended options: Gift Ideas under $25What's Christmas without a new pair of socks? We have super comfortable synethetic and merino wool socks by Giordana, and thicker wool hiking socks by Wigwam (a must have for...
Repairing Seized Slider Dropouts
Recently a customer brought in his Circle A singlespeed road bike for some help: all four bolts in the frame's sliding dropouts had seized into place, and each bolt head was rounded out. Randy ended up using a dremel with a grinding disc to cut wrench flats into each bolt so he could have at them with some vice grips. Some time later and he had meticulously freed each bolt without damaging...