The battle of the commuters

admin — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

You read the papers, you watch the news, maybe cruise your favorite blogs or forums over lunch and it's all the same. The standoff between those who commute by bike and those who commute via car is intense and emotional. But if we're going to point fingers and generalize, each side shares some guilt. It's completely reasonable that people are not ready to make the jump to a car-less life or simply don't think it's possible. Living 50 miles from work and having to get groceries for a family of 5 each week certainly draws dark clouds over the concept of bike commuting. Moreover, our culture is such that it revolves around the car. The entire development of suburbia revolves around the concept of boulevards and shopping centers. Between logistics of long, freeway commutes, poor infrastructure, and the weather it becomes readily apparent why so many people Unfortunately the reality is that there are other factors to consider besides personal convenience and lifestyle. Oil reserves are dwindling, the world is heating up, obesity is becoming the norm, and So now what?

Trekking with the folding Paratrooper bike

admin — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Hey all. Recently heard from Paul in Australia who had taken a stock Paratrooper and modified it for a trip he was taking through Japan. The bike has become nothing short of the ideal trekking bike with a full rack and pannier system,

Trekking with the folding Paratrooper bike

admin — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Swiss Bike unfolds at sell-out Gadget Show live

admin — Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000

Our UK counterpart, SwissBikes UK (

About

Swissbike — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 08:49:24 +0000

SwissBike was introduced with the philosophy that a folding bike does not have to sacrifice performance to promote portability. The entire SwissBike line offers 26 inch wheels and industry standard components that fit together on a full-size aluminum frame to give you, the rider, unmatched performance whether taking on some serious singletrack, or hammering through the city. Even more, when you arrive at your destination, the SwissBikes are ready to accommodate your needs. Folding to fit in your trunk, closet, or any other tight space, these bikes have you covered from all angles. So, in acknowledgment of the awesome capabilities of these bikes, we have provided you with this blog, as way for you to catch up to date tips and stories from other SwissBike owners around the world. Enjoy! The SwissBike Team

Products

Swissbike — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:52:23 +0000

SwissBike takes both of these qualities and combines them to give you the most versatile bike possible. All SwissBikes are performance oriented bikes that fold. They can take on the most rugged trails or leisurely bike paths and at the end of the day, fold to stash with the rest of your gear.

		Built for the Streets The SwissBike TX is a social animal. Throw on a sweater and head for coffee downtown or toss on some shorts and go cruise the boardwalk, the TX just likes to be in the know. However, like any good urbanite, it wouldnâ€™t mind sneaking away for a vacation to the countryside
		Closet performance The SwissBike LX is like the postal service; rain, sleet, snow, sun, cramped apartment, it stops for nothing. Like all SwissBikes, the LX is designed to legally fit on the bus or train, and easily fit in your trunk or boat, this bike will accompany you on your weekend jaunts into the woods and then back to the grindstone on Monday.
		On the rocks please The SwissBike XO is an aggressive hard tail that can be ridden anywhere. This model is inspired by the breathtaking rides found throughout the Alps and performs accordingly. The XO beckons to the person who demands performance, precision, style, and speed and still fits in the trunk for the ride home.

Contact

Swissbike — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 22:17:56 +0000

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to share your SwissBike story. SwissBike PO Box 381118 Cambridge, MA 02238 driley@SwissBike.com 1-800-736-5348

SwissBike Goes Blogging.

Swissbike — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 20:29:53 +0000

Hello! Welcome to the SwissBike blog. In the beginning of 2007 we released the SwissBike line of full size high-performance bikes that fold. After a short period we began to receive messages and photos from SwissBike riders around the world sharing stories about where and how these bikes are being ridden. As the SwissBike community grew, we decided to share these stories, reviews, and tips with other riders. How better to accomplish this than through a blog. Thus we created this space as a means by which we might share with you, the rider, what the rest of the world is doing with their SwissBikes. Oh, and feel free to email us your SwissBike story to share or post comments. Either way we would love to hear from you. Ride Big & Fold Small, SwissBike.

Weather it Out.

Swissbike — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:53:27 +0000

If you live in the northern states or anywhere else around the world that is far enough above the equator to freeze during these impending months, then you probably know that winter is not necessarily the season most conducive to riding your bike. Yet, there are those who pedal on through the drifts and over the ice to get to school or work or sometimes even just for fun. Take, well, myself for example. I have a very modest 5 mile commute to and from the office every day of the week. While owning a car is simply out of the question due to gas and parking expenses, cycling is not. Thus, the late months of the year find me contemplating ways to take a lickin' and keep on tickin'...or weather the weather on my bike. Let's start with the bike. I ride a stock SwissBike LX. This standard set up takes all of the abuse winter can throw at it. Moderately treaded mountain bike tires grab well on ice, road salt, and snow, while the front suspension easily soaks up potholes hidden under wintry road conditions. The drivetrain on the LX is durable; able to get dirty, wet, and frozen (all at once) and keep spinning smoothly. Basically the bike can take care of itself. I however need a few more creature comforts to make it through the daily commute. Hence for the winter months, I like to attach a standard set of fenders over the front and rear wheels to keep the road gunk off my back and face. From experience I can recommend the Freddy Fender line from Planet Bike. These fenders work well with our folding bikes. I personally use the "Full ATB" model. Also, in poor visibility situations, I turn on my front and rear lights to let vehicles know where I am. You can virtually use any lights out there on the SwissBike. On my LX I use the Sigma Micro W/R. These lights require no tools to attach and can be removed and repositioned very quickly. If I become too uncomfortable or cold, I always have the option of folding the LX and bringing it on the train or bus with me. The folding aspect is great when I get to the office or home and inclement weather is looming. That way my bike does not end up looking like this: Winter weather also means having the right clothing to keep you warm. Below is my list of essential stuff to keep the body warm and dry:

Insulated moisture wicking base layer
Windproof shell and tapered windproof riding pants - great insulation against the frigid winds.
Wool socks - I like to have them come up under the pant legs to keep my ankles from exposure.
Lobster mitts (adopted from the XC ski world) - Keep my fingers free to brake and warm while I am doing it.
Insulated winter hat - worn under the helmet. The body loses much of its heat through the head, if the head is insulated, the rest of the body will stay much warmer and warm is what winter riding is all about!

Feel free to share what tactics you use to stay on the bike through the winter. Keep riding, keep warm, SwissBike.

Ride, Fold, Bag, Repeat as necessary.

Swissbike — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 20:38:57 +0000

Over the last week we received several stories from people who have been doing some traveling with their SwissBikes. The one below seems to epitomize the versatility and portability of the SwissBikes.

Jon from Boston, MA writes:

"My brother was recently in New York on business. He lives clear across the country so I decided to take the short trip from Boston to the big apple to visit him for the weekend. On Friday I commuted to work on my TX. At the end of the day I was able to ride my bike down to the T. I have one of your carrying cases so I folded it up into the case and carried my bike on to the T. I took the T to South Station where I was able to catch a bus to the Port Authority in New York City. I stored the bike with the other luggage in the baggage hold of the Bus.

Once I arrive in New York, I unfolded my bike and road to the Upper Westside to meet my brother for dinner at Bello Sguardo (pretty good Mediterranean food if you are in the area). Given the traffic it was much quicker and cheaper than a cab ride. Since I had my bike in the case, the restaurant was very cool and allowed me to store it in the coat check area (try doing that with a normal full size bike). After dinner we took a taxi back to the hotel. Again, the bike in its carrying case went easily in the trunk of the cab. At the hotel I went right through the lobby and into the elevator with the bike in its bag on my shoulder.

As my brother did not bring his bike, the next day was spent touring the city by foot. Though I missed it, it was at least good to know that it was safe in the hotel rather than locked outside. Sunday, I checked out the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, a 32-mile bike path that virtually circles the entire island. I highly recommend it. After my ride I cut back across to the Port Authority. I made the 2:00 bus back to Boston with no problems. Tired but satisfied, I was able to make one last ride home from South Station. I call my trip: Trains, Buses and Automobiles and I couldn't have done it without my TX. Thanks"

-Jon

If that's not a story about using your folding bike to your complete advantage I don't know what is. After reading this story I looked into the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. A great map for the path can be found here at transalt.org and A brief history lesson and description can be located on the NYC Department of City Planning website.

(Note: For those not familiar with the Boston transit system the "T" is Boston's version of the subway, also known as the "L" in Chicago, "Bart" in San Francisco and for those international travelers the "Metro" in Paris.)

Traveling North Carolina's Outer Banks by Folding Bike

Swissbike — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 18:06:21 +0000

I had an interesting conversation the other day with Scott C. from Alaska. Scott is the owner of a Montague CX and the pilot of his Maule M-6. Last year he covered some serious ground in his plane by visiting over 30 states via airplane. While he was not in the air, Scott was pedaling his CX using it as his primary means of ground transportation. Below are two pictures showing how Scott is able to fit two Montague CXs as well as camping and traveling gear into his M-6.

Now you see them:

Now they are neatly tucked away and ready to fly:

One of the locations Scott was able to visit with his CX was North Carolina's Outer Banks. Landing at the Billy Mitchel Airport on the southern tip of Hatteras Island, Scott was able to use his CX to easily tour up and down the island. Hatteras is a great vacation spot for cyclists boasting over 70 miles of flat road riding that cuts through the dunes and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound. Well maintained campgrounds dot the island system making it easy to find a place to put down your kickstand during a cycling tour. For great seafood, be sure to check out Breakwater Restaurant conveniently located on the docks around Hatteras harbor. Don't forget to pedal your way to the Hatteras lighthouse, the tallest standing lighthouse in the United States.

A very tall lighthouse:

If the perfect solitude of Hatteras is too slow for your lifestyle, there is another small airfield in Kill Devil Hills which is just a short pedal away from the dunes that the Wright Brothers originally flew from in 1903. More densely populated than Hatteras, the northern portion of the Outer Banks boasts many small shops and local art galleries that are sure to allow a folded Montague or SwissBike inside. For a nice afternoon trip, ride your bike a few miles up to Duck and visit Elizabeth's Cafe and Winery for on-the-deck wine sampling and delicious gourmet food.

Prime candidates for a Montague or SwissBike:

North Carolina's Outer Banks is a cycling haven regardless of how you get there. While Scott C. travels by plane and CX, the island system is easily accessed by car and boat as well. Several of the inns around the island have private docking...and parking lots too. However, once you are on the islands, ditch the car, boat, or plane as there are tons of activities within riding distance from where you are. From wine tasting to fishing and dune surfing to fine dining, the Outer Banks has it all. Visit North Carolina's Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce website to further explore how you can maximize you vacation by using your Montague or SwissBike. Ride Safe, SwissBike.

Cycling Around Mallorca

Swissbike — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:58:26 +0000

While watching the rain and snow pile up outside the office last week, I had a chance to speak with Will W. Will is currently touring the beautiful island of Majorca (Mallorca), the largest island of Spain, located in the Mediterranean. With an incredible history, ruins on Mallorca date back over 8000 years. Today Mallorca is a tourist mecca. With miles of ridable roadways, it is also becoming a great place for cyclists to explore. Several professional cycling teams even use Mallorca as their winter/spring training grounds. While the island's roadways are generally fine for riding, Will shared the following photograph with us demonstrating the need for a bike that can handle anything.

"You need a real mountain bike to climb this mountain." - Will W.

Will purchased a Montague MX and had it shipped to Mallorca to begin his trek. To carry his loaded panniers he chose a Blackburn rack which easily attached behind the seat of his bike. As the island encompasses 3,640 square kilometers, Will has taken the better part of the month to travel and sightsee. You can follow his excursions here as they are updated daily on Ridethisbike.com.

Car Free Getaway in Napa Valley

Swissbike — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:58:12 +0000

Just before the New Year, I wrote in a post about visiting a winery. I received several emails from riders who were interested in learning more about the prospect of touring vineyards via SwissBike. After some research and several phone calls I was able to put together a tentative "to-do" list for SwissBike riding wine aficionados. One of the best locations (in the US mind you) to partake in vineyard tourism by bike is Napa Valley, CA. In the height of the wine season Napa can be a little too overwhelming due to the amount of tourists running from vineyard to vineyard. Thus, as a cyclist, one of the most relaxing times to visit Napa by bike is slightly after the peak season namely in the late fall or early winter months. During this time, the roads open up, and reservations are easier to make. Off seasons will also find winery staff with more time to stop and chat offering you local knowledge and tips to make your vacation even better.

Through the length of the valley run two major roads; route 29 and The Silverado Trail. Route 29 is characteristically a much more well traveled road, yet in recognition of the amount of cyclists that enjoy traveling through this area, stretches of great bike paths are found along this road. The Silverado Trail is a bit more dependable. More off the beaten path, this road tends to be more cycling friendly, providing direct access to route 29 and most major towns along the way via small dirt roads. The Silverado Trail runs parallel to route 29 from Napa to Calistoga covering approximately 26 miles. The Napa County Transportation Agency has provided very detailed free maps for the area here. Note the bike lane runs from Napa all the way up to Callistoga. Rumor has it that there are many rest areas and public parks along this route for tired legs to get some rest.

As San Francisco is just a short car or bus ride (perfect for your folding SwissBike) from the Napa area we would suggest that you begin your trek there. Once arriving in Napa nightly accommodations are easily found although you may want to make reservations some time before depending on the season. Depending on your riding ability day trips of virtually any length can be had. Thus vacationers can spend as little as a day or as much as they wish touring the wineries and taking in the great scenery to be had. Of the hundreds of wineries in the Napa Valley area, there are a handful that have come recommended to us as priorities on the "to- do" list. All of these three wineries are both renowned for their history as well as their product. Beaulieu Vineyard

As one of the oldest vineyards in Napa Valley, Beaulieu was one of the few to survive prohibition of the 1920s. By the 1940s, Beaulieu wines were featured at all major White House functions. The vineyard is located in Rutherford, a 15 mile cycle from Napa. Make reservations for a tour here.

Beringer Vineyards

Another survivor of prohibition, Beringer is the oldest continuously operating vineyard in Napa Valley. As the vineyards surround a huge estate that itself is worth the trip, this location is a must for obvious reasons. Dinners and events occur yearlong at Beringer. Find more information about it all here.

Robert Mondavi Winery

Robert Mondavi is one of the leading names in advancement and promotion of Napa Valley wines. Some say he is responsible for the international success of the area. His winery off of route 29 should not disappoint. Make reservations for a tour or here.

The above wineries are just three of hundreds that are easily accessible via your SwissBike. As a cycling friendly community, Napa Valley welcomes you to share their roads and taste their award winning wines. For an added treat search out the famous hot mineral springs in Calistoga; The perfect treat for the weary legs of a cyclist. Ride Safe, SwissBike

Off to the Races!

Swissbike — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 21:52:33 +0000
I am sure that all of you have heard of the Ironman. A 2.4 mile ocean swim immediately followed by a grueling 112 mile bike ride and capped off with a marathon (26.2 mile run), Ironman events showcase what many believe to be the strongest, most determined athletes out there. Angel V. of Chicago IL. is one of these people. Having competed in and finished several Ironman events and several more Ironman 70.3 mile events (half Ironmans), Angel is a veteran to the sport. However, as these competitions are few and far between, with only a number occurring worldwide each year, Angel must travel some good distances to compete in Ironmans held in places like San Diego, Hawaii, and Florida. To sum up both the problem and solution in his own words:
"I am from Chicago, Illinois...hence the need for a folder."
Basically, Angel found he needed a bike that performed like a professional tri bike, but packed away easily for travel to competitions. He found his solution to be the Montague MX which offered a full-size geometry using industry standard components. After finding the MX through online reviews, he customized the bike to triathalon standards (650c wheels, specific gearing, and other components). When all was said and done, Angel was left with a sub 20 pound monster of a tri bike that folded to meet airline requirements. After completing 5 races on his MX, Angel reported back to us on the project.
" ...The truth is I can't tell the difference between this bike and my 19 pound titanium litespeed bike. It's pretty cool to see the looks on my fellow-tri athletes when they see my folder. With my 54 tooth chain ring in the front and 11 tooth in the rear I can keep up with the best of them."
To find out more about Ironman events or for a listing of the events in your area check out the official Ironman website. Also remember to keep your eye out for Angel and his MX! Ride HARD! Swissbike

Off to the Races! (Update)

Swissbike — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:51:06 +0000
Angel, having seen our post about his racing, recently got back to us with updated facts for his 2007 racing season. He reports having "raced and traveled to 8 different locations last year" and logged over 2000 race and training miles doing so. All said and done Angel reported an average $180 in savings per trip. This computes to a staggering $1440 saved throughout the year by using a folding race bike opposed to a standard triathlon bicycle when traveling. Coincidently, Angel offers that this amount is "more than the total cost of my Triathlon Montague" (or 2 brand new SwissBike TXs for those of you counting). Even for us at SwissBike, who live and swear by the benefits of a folding bike, this seems like an incredible amount. Regarding his bike, Angel notes that currently with a new carbon fork and other goodies, the Triathlon Montague weights in at a cool 19.5 lbs. A weight comparable to many competitive racing bikes, an observation to which the athlete responds "I am not the fastest rider of the bunch, but certainly enjoy the ride as much as the guys on the $4000 bikes." So with inspiration from Angel, I went off looking for other people who compete with their Montagues or SwissBikes. What I found was another great application for our folding technology; ADVENTURE RACES! Typical adventure races run between 6 and 24 hours and involve various activities including cycling, paddling, climbing, running, and orienteering. Contestants in these races will navigate along a predetermined course completing challenges using various modes of advancement along the way. In many cases contestants are paired into teams, working together to complete the race. Most of the time, these teams are required to carry specific gear with them, in many cases this includes their bike. If you think about it, carrying 2 full size bikes in an unstable canoe could be a harrowing experience. However, we found at least one team doing things right. Right out of Montreal, Canada, this duo took 2nd overall in the Mountain Hardwear Raid adventure race using both a kayak from Canada Portable Kayaks and a pair of Montague Paratroopers. Just look at how well the Paratroopers fit in a small 2 person canoe compared to the bikes in the other canoe. Perfect. For more information on adventure racing in your area check out the United States Adventure Racing Association. Travel Easy, Swissbike.

Four Bikes, Four People, One Car - No Problem

Swissbike — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:07:55 +0000
It is finally officially bike riding season again as May actually happens to be National Bike Month and I can readily say that it's nice to don shorts and a tee shirt again. To celebrate this beautiful weather we have been having, a group of us decided to make a pre-summer voyage just off the coast of Massachusetts to Nantucket Island. Four of us packed up two SwissBike TXs and two SwissBike LXs with some bags and food into the trunk of a Subaru and headed for the ferry in Hyannis. For those of your counting, that would be 4 bikes and 4 people in a Subaru. With the car left behind at the dock and the bikes loaded on the boat we departed on the two hour trip from the mainland to the island. One of the beautiful things about Nantucket is that is seems as though it was made for bikes. Infused with paved bike paths and with cars governed by island wide low speed limits, any part of the island is accessible by bike. In fact, at only 45 square miles, all points are just a short ride away from each other. After the two hour ferry ride we docked in the town of Nantucket. As the town is still paved with cobble stones, we were relieved that we brought SwissBike TXs and LXs as both are equipped with front suspension and knobby tires. Once we gathered all of our belongings we headed out to moors (think cranberry bogs) where we were staying. The house we borrowed was a classic cape positioned right on the water. Due to the flatness of the island we were positioned in a way that gave us both a brilliant sunrise and set. With a hot dog off the grill, it was a great end to a Friday. Not only did our house give us good sun rises, but it also put us in the middle of the island making the farthest points from us no more than about 10 miles. Not being on a schedule found us leisurely pedaling the 5 miles into town for breakfast. Once there, however we found out it was the annual Nantucket daffodil weekend. This particular weekend daffodils all over the island come to bloom and a celebration and parade usually ensues. After coffe and scones we sat with the bikes and watched as a stream of classic cars drove a loop through town covered in the flowers. After the festivities we mounted our bikes and headed a little ways out of town for lunch at a great sandwich shop called Provisions. After eating our monster sandwiches out on their lawn, we decided that such a beautiful day warranted some beach time. Back on the bikes and another 5 miles later we had all of Cisco beach on the South side of the island to ourselves. When in season (August, September), Cisco beach is filled with surfers and beach goers. After the beach we headed back toward town. On the way we stopped at the Bartlett farm off of Hummock Pond Rd. and shared a box of strawberries. Bartlett is one of two remaining farms on the island. Right next door to the farm is Cisco Brewers. Cisco Brewers is one of a handful of establishments that is simultaneously a brewery, distillery, and winery. Needless to say, we stopped and spoke with the owner about his business and ended up staying for a brewery tour. By the time we left it was time to head in for the night. Jumping back on the bikes we quickly rode the 8 miles home and fired up the grill for another sunset dinner. The final day of our excursion, the weather turned overcast. This gave us a chance for a good ride into the moors where we got some solid mountain biking in. This was both Dana and Matt's first time on the SwissBikes. Even though Matt is an avid cyclist, and Dana a beginner, they both found that the SwissBikes fit well and went beyond their expectations of folding bikes. Matt was especially impressed by the way the bikes handled off the road. The moors on Nantucket offer great fire trails and technical single track peppered with rock and sand. Both the LX and the TX grabbed the loose rock with ease and made quick work of the sand. Dana remarked that she had not previously thought a bike could be so versatile in the way it rides and travels. I had to agree. SwissBike does challenge the common belief that a bike has to be either a road or mountain bike, a small wheel folder or a full size elephant. SwissBike seems to find common ground between all of these categories and effectively shatters the stereotype. Matt agreed as he powered through a pile of sand in the trail. The day ended with some warm authentic clam chowder and a ride back to the house. A quick ferry ride back across the bay and we were headed back up to metro Boston. A great weekend excursion had come to an end. Thinking back it really is incredible how convenient the bikes were. The four SwissBikes fit perfectly in the car and on the boat, while at the same time giving us the freedom to hit the road, trails, and cobble stones with no problems at all. Now thats what I call performance and portability! Ride Safe, SwissBike

The Paratrooper Heads For Papua New Guinea

Swissbike — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:37:31 +0000
Chris Allison is a 24 year old cyclist and humanitarian from Atlanta, GA. Over the next two years he will be leaving his home and heading for Papua New Guinea (and eventually Bolivia) in order to aid in relief and re-building efforts. While he may be leaving the comforts of his couch on this endeavor, he will not be leaving his passion for cycling. In conjunctions with his main goals, Chris intends to "provide local communities with functioning bicycles as a vital means of transportation" as in many areas of Papua New Guinea, cars are simply not feasible. In fact, many localities can only be reached by foot or via airplane. Chris however, thought of another method of travel. Checking out various options, Chris quickly settled on the Montague Paratrooper as the ideal mode of transportation for his time abroad. It is easy to fold down and fly with, it's rugged enough to hold up to trails and unpaved roads that otherwise might prove troublesome, and it compacts down tightly to store at night and when riding in a vehicle. Built around the industry standard, the Paratrooper offers compatibility with a wide range of tools and components as well. This is an important concept as your average bike shops are few and far between in Papua. From Chris' descriptions of the mountainous terrain, it also sounds like some downtime singletrack will be pretty fun too. So check back here or go right to the source to watch Chris' adventure unfold. Ride Safe, SwissBike

Row, Row, Row, Your Bike

Swissbike — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:32:32 +0000
We have recently been checking updates from Julie and Colin Angus, two adventurers rowing and cycling 6500km from Scotland to Syria. Having begun at the northern tip of Scotland in March 2008, they are on the very last leg of their journey six months later. The spirit of the trip revolves around spreading awareness of environmental stewardship and bridging the gaps between various cultures. The Angus' means of transportation is quite unique. Understanding the efficiency of small, human powered watercraft, the pair had two amphibious rowboats built for the trip. However, realizing that rowing conditions may not always be ideal and that access to waterways may be inconsistent, they decided to bring a pair of bikes along. Thus, two trailers were constructed that could easily be broken down to fit inside the boats and two bikes were selected that could fold down for easy storage and transportation. Due to the long miles to be ridden and ~250kg of gear to be towed, Julie and Colin really wanted the strength and comfort of a full size bike but the stow ability of folding bike. The two Montague bikes that were eventually selected fit their needs perfectly. Combined with the state of the art row boats, the Rowed Trip team was equally mobile both on and off the water, the ultimate human powered machine. Over the last few months, the team has had an incredible journey. They update their journal regularly with well written accounts of their trials and tribulations and great photos. Along with their own journey, the Angus' have teamed up with with various educators to offer students an interactive learning experience exploring world cultures and developing key decision making skills. Congratulations on a fantastic trip. SwissBike

Paratrooper Makes it to the Museum.

Swissbike — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 22:11:21 +0000
This summer the brand new America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, PA decided to feature the Montague Paratrooper folding bike in an exhibit as an icon of what the future of transportation could be. We were delighted that the Paratrooper would be recognized in its place as one of vehicles at the front of the alternative transportation movement. America on Wheels boasts over 23,000 square feet of exhibit space and expects over 50,000 visitors within the first year. Now open, the museum is easily reached from Southern New England, DC, Philly, and New York. So pack up your Montague and take a day trip out to Allentown to see how your folding bike is making history. Here is the Paratrooper exhibit. Ride Safe! SwissBike

In Addition to the Bailout...A SwissBike for Commuters

Swissbike — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 22:05:25 +0000

Surprise Benefit Of Financial Bailout Means Commuting By Bike Has Never Been Easier or Cheaper.
You could say the new $700 billion financial bailout bill that passed recently represents "the good, the bad and the ugly". One of the "good" items added to the package was the Bicycle Commuter Act. This new legislation allows employers to reimburse employees up to $240 a year, tax free, for "reasonable" expenses related to their bike commute, including equipment purchases, bike purchases, repairs, and storage provided the bicycle is used as a "substantial part" of the commuter's trip to work for the month. Though this new law is a great step toward encouraging employees to adopt bicycle commuting, Montague Corporation, a bicycle company with over 20 years of manufacturing experience, recognizes that more incentive is necessary to have Corporations take bicycle commuting seriously. In light of the new bill, Montague is offering special pricing to companies in order to foster a bicycle commuter culture amongst employees. This incentive combined with the tax benefits of the newly approved "Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008" should greatly increase bicycle to work participation. Montagueâ€™s corporate program offers both the product and the solution to companies who want to establish a bike commuter program for their employees and combined with the new legislation - the timing is perfect. Beyond the obvious tax incentives, benefits include healthier employees, much lower gasoline expenditures, lower health insurance costs, reduced traffic congestion around the company, less parking demand, and a cleaner environment. What more could you ask for? â€œWe saw the benefits of the Bicycle Commuter act and, though pleased with the outcome, thought there was more we could do to encourage corporations to adopt a bicycle commuting program." said David Montague, president of Montague Corporation. â€œWe are committed to making a difference in the world of bicycle commuting and thus are giving U.S. Corporations the ability to tap into the benefits of the Bicycle Commuter Act with our own incentive program. For those looking for more information on the bill we created a web site (www.startcommutingbybike.com) that clearly explains the Bicycle Commuter bill and what companies can do to maximize these new benefits which will take effect January 1^st, 2009.â€ This bill combined with Montagueâ€™s new program will go a long way towards helping corporate green initiatives and creating an environment where employees are healthier and happier and therefore more productive. For their part, Montague Corporation will offer a custom commuter bike (SwissBike TX) to employers at a substantial discount that can be recouped in tax relief in as little as 24 months. Despite these obvious incentives, Montague acknowledges that for many employees who have not previously commuted by bicycle, the transition seems like a big step. Simply jumping on a bike and pedaling all the way to work can be a far reach for many cyclists as long distances, adverse road conditions, and bad weather can all get in the way. And having a place to keep a bike safely indoors is not always a reality. This is where the unique concept behind the SwissBike TX comes into play. The SwissBike TX is a high-performance bike that folds in half for easy storage or transport using a patented technology originally developed to allow military paratroopers to airdrop with a mountain bike. Applied to civilian life, SwissBikes can easily fit in the trunk of a car, on the train, corporate bus, or even in a cab. The multiple functions of this bike neatly fill in the gaps that often cause people to write off commuting and traveling by bike. â€œThe SwissBike TX addresses many of the major hassles of commuting to workâ€ explains David Montague. â€œMost peopleâ€™s commute to work is farther than they feel comfortable riding a bike. In this case, you simply put a SwissBike TX in the trunk of your car, you drive part way to work, park, and pull out your SwissBike TX for the rest of the ride. And if the day is not nice, or you donâ€™t have the energy, you simply leave the bike safe and dry in the trunk until another day. We call it Cycle and Drive commuting. Itâ€™s easy, itâ€™s good for you, and itâ€™s a manageable step for most people.â€ The Montague Corporation is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts and is dedicated to advancing cycling through the development of inventive technologies that provide its customers with an unprecedented combination of performance and convenience. Visit www.startcommutingbybike.com or call toll free (800) 736-5348 for more information about the Montague Corporate Commuting Incentive Program.

What's new for 2009?

Swissbike — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:14:57 +0000
Happy New Year! For 2009 we decided to give you something to look forward to. The TX, LX, and XO have all seen changes for the new year and are better than ever. The new SwissBike TX has been further refined and developed into a bike that truly does it all. For 2009 the TX features an SR Suntour SF-9 suspension fork with rebound adjust and CLIX compatibility. Compared to the 2008 model, this fork has 63mm of travel which translates into more efficient/easier pedaling for the rider, while still retaining the ability to ride off road smoothly. To compliment this suspension upgrade, the TX also features 1.5" Kenda Kwest slicks both front and rear. These tires offer low rolling resistance on road while still offering enough tread to play in the dirt. You spoke, we listened. The 2009 SwissBike LX now features rear disc brake tabs in addition to the standard front tabs. This allows riders to install a rear disc for added stopping power and increased performance in wet weather. Well placed cable guides allow the LX to fold without crimping or bending hydraulic cables. Also for 2009, the SwissBike LX boasts an upgrade to Shimano SLX drivetrain components. This new component group is slated to be more focused on All Mountain and rugged off road riding, providing bullet proof shifting under all conditions. To compliment the rugged nature of this upgrade, we've added a replaceable derailluer hanger to the SwissBike LX. This means that if your rear derailluer gets caught up on a log or rock, the hanger gets bent rather than the frame of the bike. Basically it's giving you more reason to ride hard. This year's SwissBike XO is as fast as ever. Taking the upgrades seen on the SwissBike LX and refining them, the XO features Avid Juicy 7 hydraulic disc brakes both front and rear as well as a full SRAM XO drivetrain and a fully tunable Rock Shox Recon 351 suspension fork. These three gems come together to represent a very versatile lineup that covers everything from the city streets to the mountain rock gardens. It's all here. Welcome to 2009, the bikes are waiting. Ride hard, SwissBike

We're on Facebook!

Swissbike — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:06:10 +0000
Hi SwissBike Riders, Come find us on Facebook! There you can find pictures, videos, and other SiwssBike riders and enthusiasts. Also, don't forget to tag us in your photos. We love to see where our bikes have been. Also, while we have been patiently waiting for the fast approaching Spring weather here in New England, we have had some great correspondence from a military Sargent in Iraq where the weather appears to be quite the opposite. The pictures of his custom Paratrooper he has forwarded to us paint an incredible picture. Impressive and inspiring. It's great to see the our bikes in the environment for which they were built! Ride Safe, SwissBike

SwissBike Helps with Homeland and International Security Training.

Swissbike — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 20:13:54 +0000

SwissBike Riders!

Just heard from Bob Knight at Tactical Advantage Consultants, Inc in Florida. They sent some pretty cool images of their last training program for Advanced Marine Law Enforcement. These guys are experts in training homeland security folks and international marine police officers from all over the world. Bob says he uses our folding bikes for training as well as personnel use. Check it out.

Montague Folding Bikes Security Training

Swissbike — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 22:35:02 +0000

Just heard from Bob Knight from Tactical Advantage Consultants, Inc in Florida. They sent some pretty cool images of their last training program for Advanced Marine Law Enforcement. These guys are experts in training homeland security folks and international marine police officers from all over the world. Bob says he uses our folding bikes for training as well as personnel use. Check it out.

Ride Safe,

SwissBike

Friday special at All Star San...

Swissbike — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:43:55 +0000
Friday special at All Star Sandwich. Why not take the bike out for lunch on this beautiful Spring day.

We are now on facebook! Friend...

Swissbike — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:15:09 +0000
We are now on facebook! Friend us and meet other Montague bike owners. http://tinyurl.com/dcjqum

We're on Twitter!

Swissbike — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 21:14:15 +0000
SwissBike Riders! Come follow us on Twitter for up to the minute updates on what we're doing at Montague Bikes and what we're doing when were away from the office (hint: it's probably riding bikes). Follow along at http://twitter.com/MontagueBikes. It's finally the first day of Spring and the weather has certainly proven it. A beautiful commute into the office today on a SwissBike TX proved easy and fun as I was able to shed the layers, basking in the morning sunshine. The clear skies also prompted a great lunchtime ride down by the river. We brought along the 2009 SwissBike LX and SwissBike XO. Both bikes folded easily into the trunk of a Honda CRV. Today has gotten me very excited for a full summer of riding and road trips! Happy Spring. Ride Safe, Swissbike.

The sun sets late these days. ...

Swissbike — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 21:27:11 +0000
The sun sets late these days. Time to take the long way home with the new TX.

Beautiful rides this weekend. ...

Swissbike — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:35:57 +0000
Beautiful rides this weekend. Lots of time in the sun. Looking forward to more warm weather!

The crew just returned from Ta...

Swissbike — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:29:51 +0000
The crew just returned from Taiwan after having a very productive time at the Tiapei International Cycle show!

Check out what some cool moms ...

Swissbike — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 20:24:18 +0000
Check out what some cool moms are saying about our new folding bikes. http://tinyurl.com/czo6gq

Cup of coffee for the brisk sp...

Swissbike — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:23:13 +0000
Cup of coffee for the brisk spring morning ride. The new TX performed beautifully. Lots of people were asking about it outside D&D #fb

Condo Blues is loving the way ...

Swissbike — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:37:34 +0000
Condo Blues is loving the way the SwissBike folds to fit pretty much anywhere. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/d5cddc

High of 50 today. Looking forw...

Swissbike — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:28:43 +0000
High of 50 today. Looking forward to getting out on the bike and its only 9:30. The weather is just perfect out there.

Here's another great blog post...

Swissbike — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:33:40 +0000
Here's another great blog post about our new folders. http://tinyurl.com/dn3x4b

Taipei International Cycle Show

Swissbike — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:12:24 +0000
This past week we were in Taiwan at the Taipei International Cycle Show meeting with many of our international distributors and parts suppliers. All were very enthusiastic about the changes we've made for 2009 and are eagerly looking forward to 2010. It's great to see such a worldwide buzz surrounding the bikes. The crowds were a constant at our exhibit and the curious visitors could not get enough folding demos and brochures. The exhibit itself looked great. It easily showed off our models and stood out nicely. The exhibit before the show opening: Overall, we had a great time and were very well received. Looking forward to heading back next year! Ride Safe, Swissbike.

Island's Magazine Reviews the CX Folding Bike

admin — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 21:50:25 +0000
Hey all, Just heard back from Eddy at Islands Magazine. He was off testing our new 2009 CX folding bike. As we expected, he loved it! Eddy says:
"This isn’t a miniaturized folding bike with small tires, an odd-looking frame and a nervous riding sensation. The Montague CX Comfort Bike has standard 26” wheels, and a frame that hides any hints of its portable prowess. When riding it, we forgot that it’s a foldable bike. No small-tire speed wobbles, no concerns regarding the bike’s strength, and no worries about special-order parts if something goes wrong. And that’s just the point. We like this bike because it’s a bike first. Ride it anywhere, on any trail at any speed without any folding-bike tradeoffs."
That pretty much sums up our philosophy and our bikes right there. But there's more! To read the whole review complete with images of the CX bike folded in the office and cruising around the park visit the Islands Magazine Blog. I leave you with a cool video the guys at Islands put together to show how versatile our folding bikes really are. Ride Safe, SwissBike!

Flying with a Montague Paratrooper.

admin — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:31:00 +0000
The sun is shining, the snow is gone, travel season is almost upon us. I was recently cruising around Chris Allison's blog catching up on his epic trip to Papua New Guinea where he is currently doing a considerable amount of volunteer work, and I came across the post where he describes how he packed his entire trip, including the Montague Paratrooper into two standard suitcases. He writes:
On this subject of packing, a few of you have inquired into just how I manage to take my mountain bike overseas with me as I travel, plus avoid all those crazy airline fees for overweight/oversize baggage. Believe it or not, it is easier than you might imagine and for me it is a necessity to have a bike for transportation in the countries I am working.
While it takes a little bit of disassembly to fit the bike. It's nothing you can't do with a simple bike tool. Heres how the process looks! Chris notes that with everything packed,
Both suitcases are under the required 62 inches (L x W x H) and under the 50lb weight limit before the airlines start charging oversize and overweight fees.
How cool is that? Ride safe, SwissBike

Paratrooper Finds Favor with Police

admin — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:35:39 +0000
Hello! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and bike police are yet again mounting up to patrol the streets. Here's a great review of our Paratrooper folding bike from the eyes of an officer in the UK:
Background Montague Corporation developed the Paratrooper Mountain Bike in conjunction with the United States Defence advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to bridge an important gap between walking infantry and heavy military vehicles like The Hum Vee or other army trucks. Montague Corporation pioneered Folding Integrated Technology (FIT), deemed to be one of the next-generation trends in the bicycle industry. DARPA, the Pentagon-based agency, recognized the importance of this folding technology for military use and so funded the development of a bicycle that could be used by US Marines, Paratroopers, Military Police, Rangers, Police and other Military divisions. The bike has developed into civilian models and the Swiss Bike brand. Findings Montague UK kindly supplied the constabulary with a Cammo Green Montague Paratrooper. The bike came folded in its’ box with the front wheel off and the mudguards and bike rack requiring fitting. This was a 5 minute job straight out of the box. The bike is immediately distinguishable from the normal “Double Triangle” Framed mountain bikes because of its Single thick Cross bar and rear triangle. Assembling the bike was a simple affair with 4 quick release catches to be checked and tightened. Both wheels, saddle and the all important QR for the folding mechanism. Safety checks complete it was out for the first ride. Once on the bike everything fell immediately to hand on the bars. Although narrower and flatter than I was used to. The front end felt lively and light, very simply it went where you pointed it. The front suspension absorbed the bumps on road and cycle path and I had no problems with the bike when subjecting it to light off road use. The saddle supplied was extremely comfortable and even when spending 4 or 5 hours on constant patrol. Everywhere I took the Paratrooper it became the focus of attention. It enabled me to engage with some youths who would generally avoid any form of conversation. I ended up demonstrating the ability to fold the bike on several occasions. Portability is the name of the game for this bike. The ability to quickly drop out the front wheel, fold the bike in half and then transport it to another area is its forte. My first call out on the bike ended in an arrest. Normally this would entail handing over the Detained Person to another officer, then cycling to custody which can take anywhere between 10 minutes and half an hour for me depending on where I am. On this occasion I folded the bike up and dropped it into the back of a Ford Transit Connect. This would not have been possible with a normal bike, even with the front wheel off. The portability of these bikes would be ideally suited to PCSOs and NPT officers in rural areas or areas that are a fair distance off from their home station. It would enable them to transport their bikes, be dropped off and patrol their areas. They could be then be picked up at the end of the shift and returned. Recommendations Swiss Bike LX. This model is £50 more expensive than the Paratrooper however it is equipped with Shimano LX gears, high rise bars to aid comfort and is supplied in a matt Black finish which would only need the application of “POLICE” transfers. The replacement of the large off road tyres to more suitable semi-slick urban puncture proof tyres would also be recommended. At £575 for the Paratrooper (£625 for the Swiss Bike LX) there are much better equipped “normal” mountain bikes available on the market for the same price. However with exception of the Dahon Cadenza 8 there is no other competitor on the market at this time for this style of bike. Conclusion The bike is very well designed and robust enough to carry out daily patrol duties. Compared to other bikes of a similar equipment specification it is expensive. However you are paying for the design and engineering of the frame and its portability. As parts wear out they could be replaced by higher quality and more robust equipment. The bike is ideally suited to officers who will patrol in rural areas. However there is also a case for all NPT officers and PCSO’s to be issued with this bike as, once folded (and preferably placed in its bag) it will even fit onto the back seat of a Ford Focus. It would also make a good robust commuter bike!
Check out www.militarybikes.com for more on the Paratrooper! Ride Safe, SwissBike

Trekking with the Paratrooper folding bike

admin — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:56:02 +0000
Hi All, We've recently received word from Paul in Australia who has taken a stock Paratrooper and modified it for an upcoming trip to Japan. Paul has created the ultimate travel/trekking bike by adding a full rack and pannier system, lights, and fenders to our signature folding Paratrooper frame. The result is an incredibly capable bike that is ready for pretty much any scenario. Awesome job Paul! We hope to receive more images of this unique bike in action as Paul's trip goes underway.

Folding Bikes Around the Commons

admin — Wed, 06 May 2009 19:49:59 +0000
We've been having some unreal weather around these parts. It's almost as if the winter cold transitioned right into summer. Needless to say, we've been taking advantage of this weather in as many ways as possible. Last week found us out and about with the bikes on the Commons. People couldn't stay away! We constantly had a flock of people following us around asking how the bikes folded and where they could find them. It was great! Here are some pictures from the day. Thanks to all who helped out! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="SwissBike folding bike down by the river."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="333" caption="Commuting home on a swissbike folding bike."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Resting with a CX and TX folding bike."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Having a great afternoon ride."][/caption] Send us your own spring riding pictures! Ride Safe, SwissBike

Folding Bike Trailers From France

admin — Thu, 07 May 2009 20:08:05 +0000
Right after I posted the great shots we took around the Commons, I received an email from our French Distributor who, for their debut of our bikes in France, have put together an amazing collection of videos. These videos just make me want to go out and ride. I was especially impressed by the kid showing off some solid BMX skills on a stock Montague. I'm pretty sure our folding bikes are the only ones out there that can take hits like that. I love it. Videos: For several more videos check out http://www.3e-montague.fr/#/la-marque/. Now go unfold your bikes and ride! Ride Safe, Swissbike.

Paratrooper Folding Bike Displayed at U.S. Army FPED

admin — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:11:55 +0000
Hi SwissBike and Montague Riders! The Force Protection Equipment Demonstration (FPED) is being held from May 19-21 2009 at the Stafford County Regional Airport, Stafford, Virginia. Leaders from around the world are coming together to meet manufacturers and see first hand new available equipment used in security and force protection. Throughout the years these demonstrations have attracted hundreds of vendors displaying thousands of items. This year marks the 7th exhibition since the FPED’s start in 1997. This year Montague Corporation is once again attending the FPED. We will be presenting the legendary Paratrooper, one of our many bicycles utilizing our Folding Integrated Technology (F.I.T.). The Paratrooper is a full-size mountain bike that folds in half to fit through the cargo door of a military plane or helicopter while tethered to a soldier via static line. It can fold and fit into a carrying case that the soldier fastens to himself or herself before a jump. Once on the ground, the soldier then has a high-speed mountain bike to use as transportation, which is often a faster alternative to walking and much more fuel efficient than using heavy military vehicles. The Paratrooper has no thermal or acoustic radar signature and has the ability to haul several hundred pounds of gear, great for many uses. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="332" caption="Airborne Soldier With Paratrooper Folding BIke"][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="332" caption="Soldier With Attached Paratrooper BIke"][/caption] Ride Safe! SwissBike.

Commuter Tips!

admin — Tue, 19 May 2009 20:22:27 +0000
Hey all, With national bike month and summer weather and all that goodness upon us, I wanted to share some great commuter 'rules' with you. Transportation Alternatives has recently created a bike specific website that has some great reference materials, tips and other good stuff for bike commuters. Though it looks as though the site is slated toward NYC riders, it definitely applies to all of us. They write:
Here's a simple proposition for NYC cyclists: always yield to pedestrians. As our potential to cause harm increases on the street, so does our responsibility to others. Slowing down and giving someone the respect they deserve will go a long way towards fostering a sense of shared responsibility that will ultimately make NYC streets better for cyclists, pedestrians and even drivers. Cyclists, as the fastest-growing commuter group in NYC, are the most obvious ambassadors for calmer and more livable streets. Cyclists often know, in painful detail, the fear and havoc that automobiles can bring to NYC streets. Let's not pose a similar threat to pedestrians in the walking capital of the world. Instead, let's seize this opportunity to usher in a new era of safer, saner travel. Join us in this moving revolution: Biking Rules for NYC.
Check out the list of commuter rules here: http://bikingrules.org/rules/streetcode Ride Safe, SwissBike

Deaflympics 2009 - Taipei, Taiwan

admin — Thu, 21 May 2009 16:02:04 +0000
Hi SwissBike and Montague Riders! The Deaflympics (previously the World Games for the Deaf) are an Olympic event held every 4 years for athletes who are hearing-impaired. They are the longest running multi-sport event other than the Olympics themselves, run by deaf people for deaf athletes. They use flags instead of whistles during games, and light flashes instead of starter pistols for races. Around 4,000 athletes from 80 countries will be participating in this year's Deaflympics, being help in Taipei, Taiwan from September 5 –15 2009. Montague Distributor, Yark Technologies, has donated 21 folding Montague bicycles to be used in the games. During a recent parade promoting the Deaflympics, show girls rode Montague bikes in the city of Taipei. We’re proud to be a part of one of the world's fastest growing sports events! Ride Safe, SwissBike. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="375" caption="Show girl riding a Montague bike."][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Show girls with Montague bikes at Deaflympics march."][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Girls riding Montague bikes during a parade."][/caption]

Summertime Riding

admin — Tue, 26 May 2009 16:09:58 +0000
Hi All! So the summer has arrived, not a moment too soon, and we as bikers have the privilege of riding through the warmth and humidity for the next few months. Summertime heat and sweat can get very unpleasant if you're not prepared for it, even with the breeze we create while pedaling. Whether you’re commuting to the office or just out for a fun ride, wearing and carrying the right things always makes the difference. Shorts and t-shirts feel the best, but always pair those with sunscreen to avoid getting burned halfway down your arms or legs. If you use a backpack or messenger bag, but want to avoid getting sweat on your back, try putting a rack on your bicycle for the warmer months. Bike racks can easily be attached to any Montague or Swiss bike. Freak summer thunderstorms can show up instantly, and disappear just as quickly. Those few minutes are all it takes to be uncomfortable for the rest of your ride, so try carrying a rain guard (a thin one will do) or an extra t-shirt to change into. Also always carry an extra pair of socks, because nobody likes to have wet feet. One thing I always take with me is a plastic bag to throw valuables into just in case of that sudden downpour. If you feel confident wearing a hat (underneath your helmet) or sunglasses during your ride, it’s a big help to shield your eyes from sunlight, especially when the sun is low during the afternoon commute. Squinting while riding isn’t fun and it can be dangerous. One last and maybe obvious reminder, don’t forget to ALWAYS CARRY WATER no matter what the temperature – but especially while riding in the heat. Ride Safe, SwissBike

Paratrooper Folding Bike Goes Military

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 19:39:56 +0000
Hi Montague and Swiss Riders! As you may have found out, Montague was one of many companies at this year’s Federal Protection Equipment Demonstration (FPED). We were proud to display our Paratrooper folding bike and explain its military capabilities. The bikes are currently being used overseas for scouting and travel, among other things. The folding ability is an added bonus to the strength of these bikes, adding opportunities for easier storage and mobility. This year’s exhibit was a huge success, and tons of people came by our booth to check out the Paratrooper. We were even featured in the local Fredericksburg paper. Have a Great Weekend and Ride Safe, Swissbike [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Paratrooper Booth"][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="375" caption="Cammy Green Paratrooper"][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Cammy Green Paratrooper"][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Folded Paratrooper in Helicopter"][/caption][caption id="" align="alignnone" width="333" caption="Soldier With A Paratrooper"][/caption]

Biking Amsterdam: One Bridge at a Time

admin — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:48:45 +0000
Hi Riders! Everyone knows that the Netherlands is a country made of bike riders. And Amsterdam is its biking capital. With over 600,000 bicycles crowding the streets and sidewalks, you feel strange not having a bike, and right at home when you do. Amsterdam does have bike lanes meandering over and around its canals, but it also has trams, buses, cars and pedestrians surrounding you every which way. Riding with so many other forms of traffic definitely takes confidence, and I recently made a short stop by the city of cycling to join in on the fun and test our folding bicycles in a real biker’s metropolis. One of the most striking things I first noticed upon arriving in Amsterdam is the number of beautiful canals that add so much color and reflection in the sunlight. The second thing I noticed was the number of bicycles locked up on and around the bridges going over those canals. I took a look at the commuters on their old-fashioned cruisers and heavy, beat up road bikes and decided it was time to put a Montague bike to the test. I unfolded my CX, put on my helmet, and hopped on. Almost immediately there were some curious eyes as I made my way towards Dam Square to meet an old friend for lunch. These stares also could have been directed at my helmet. I’ve heard local riders don’t believe in them, and I did not see a single person wearing one! But almost immediately I felt right at home riding in the confusion of the city. My bike had smooth and sturdy handling as I pedaled over the cobblestone streets and the many bridges. The seatpost suspension added to the comfort of the ride and the handlebars were perfect for easily sitting upright so I could do some sightseeing as I coasted along with my fellow cyclists. After an amazing ride through the stunning scenery I finally arrived at my destination. I looked at the rows and rows of bikes locked up along the sidewalks and decided I’d rather not leave mine outside. Bicycle theft can be an issue in Amsterdam, and since I had the option, I wanted to keep my bike near. Locals stared in amazement as I quickly folded up my full size CX comfort bike. I then picked it up and walked into the café where I was able to keep an eye on it over lunch. After lunch my friend and I decided to head back to her place a few miles away. She was going to take public transportation, and not wanting to put our conversation on hold, I decided I wouldn’t ride my bike this time. So I simply carried my folded bike onto the bus and we were off. Later that evening I decided to take in a bit more of area and meandered back to the hotel, folded the CX, and carried it up to my hotel room at the Alp Hotel Amsterdam , stowing it for the night. The next morning I set off for more sightseeing. The commotion of the trams and cars didn’t seem like such a bother now that I was more used to the city. My first destination was Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park. Once I arrived I enjoyed a relaxing picnic by the pond and watched people out and about in the nice weather. After I got in a little reading, it was time to go to the Van Gogh Museum. After a pretty quick ride, I got off my bike and folded it and zipped it away in the soft carrying case. I didn’t know if I would be allowed to bring it inside the museum, but the lady at the entrance told me that since it was conveniently stored in the bag I could check it in the cloakroom. After an amazing afternoon spent with beautiful artwork, I decided to go to a few more places before heading to my hotel. I thanked the lady from the museum for storing my bike as I handed her the ticket for it. I unfolded the CX and went on my way, zigzagging around and over the canals. I visited the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest church, and the Anne Frank House where she and her family lived for two years. Once the day became the evening I headed back to my hotel. [caption id="attachment_183" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="At Night the Canals Reflect the Beautiful Lighting of the City"][/caption] The next day my first and only stop before leaving was the Albert Cuyp outdoor market. I had heard it is where the locals go for cheap eats and discount prices on anything and everything. I really started to feel like a local as I was learning the biking rules of the city. Soon enough, I came upon the huge sea of people gathered around the stalls of food, flowers, and furniture. I locked up my bike with the others on the street and headed into the crowd. After an hour or so, I made my way out of the market with a bag of food ranging from Gouda cheese to different kinds chocolates. I also picked up a few t-shirts and a scarf. I packed everything into my bag, hopped on my bike and rode off. [caption id="attachment_184" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="There are bikes locked up on and around all of the bridges and canals around Amsterdam."][/caption] Despite being in such a bike friendly city, there were many instances while in Amsterdam that it was convenient to have a Montague folding bike. It was incredibly easy to use with the public transportation system, which made my trip seamless. Upon reaching my hotel at the end of each long day, I could carry my bike up to my room and know it was safe all night. I definitely recommend marking Amsterdam on your list of bicycle lovers vacation spots. It’s really great to feel like a part of the city of bikes and I found that having a folding bike made the experience that much more enjoyable. Ride Safe, Swissbike

Up the River on a Folding Bike

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:46:51 +0000
Hi Riders, I woke up on Saturday to beautiful blue skies outside. Immediately I decided to go for an early morning bike ride along the Charles River bike path, a 24-mile loop from the Museum of Science in Boston all the way to Waltham. I knew if I got out in time I could miss the majority of the tourists that flock to the city on the weekends, and if not, I could do some people watching while catching some beautiful scenery of the sailboats on the water. After breakfast I packed some food for the journey and hopped on my Swissbike TX folding bike en route to Watertown to visit my grandmother. It takes about 10 minutes to get to the Charles River from my apt in Cambridge. Once there, I looked across the way to the Boston side. It was starting to get crowded with tourists and daily joggers and walkers, so I decided to stick to the Cambridge side of the river for my ride. One of the things I like about this path is that it runs on both sides of the river and connects at the end for one large loop. It’s great for different views and numerous shops. [caption id="attachment_187" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="The Charles River with part of the Boston Skyline as Seen From Cambridge"][/caption] The trail is really fun to ride on. Closer to the city it’s fairly wide and smooth, but with more traffic. In the first part of my little trip I watched the couples sitting in the grass, and others playing Frisbee with the backdrop of the dark blue water and the Boston skyline. There were a couple of inquisitive glances at my bike, which always makes me smile. I didn’t have to dodge too many obstacles, other than the occasional crack in the pavement. [caption id="attachment_189" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="The Charles River is calmer as you get farther from the city."][/caption] As I cruised along, I spotted a large tree with tons of shade. It looked ideal for a quick stop to hydrate. I folded up my TX and leaned it right next to me as I sat down. It was also a perfect opportunity to take some photos of a sunny day. At one point another rider saw my TX and came over to ask about it. I showed him how it folded and unfolded and he got a real kick out of it. Afterwards I packed up and continued on my way. One slight disadvantage to Charles River bike path is that there are a lot of intersections as you go, so as I got closer to my destination I had to pause more at lights. These pauses can be good though to catch your breath and scope out the surroundings. After a great trip on my TX on a beautiful morning, I finally arrived in Watertown. I slowly rode through the town until I reached my grandmother’s house. I folded up my bike, carried it up the stairs, and rang the doorbell. It was the perfect surprise visit. Ride Safe, Swissbike

Swissbike XO Mountain Folding Bike: North Shore

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:54:03 +0000
Hi Swissbikers! The weather finally brightened up yesterday, so we decided it was the perfect day to do some riding. We packed up a few Montague Swissbike XO folding bikes in our car trunk and headed to northern Massachusetts for a little mountain biking. Upon arriving near the woods of Gloucester, we parked our car, unfolded the bikes, and headed straight into the trails. No warm up. The trails out there start abruptly, throwing all kinds of technical descents, climbs, and drops your way. The XO felt very comfortable as we made our way through the beginning of the trail, hopping smaller rocks and winding down the hills. We sped right over some man-made bridges and ladders with no problem. The steeper ones were exhilarating, and the XO felt very reliable as we rode high above the ground. Biking up over larger boulders was a workout for the legs, but the tires and brakes held up really well and prevented the bikes from sliding around. It was great to dip and dive with a trustworthy bike. At the end of the day, being able to put the folded bikes back into the car and not having to fiddle with a roof rack was a nice relief. All in all it was a really fun trip, and our Swissbike XO folding bikes held tough in and around the rocky terrain. The experience made us want to keep riding. Send us your own mountain biking photos! Ride Safe, SwissBike

amsterdam

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:39:31 +0000

2162493930_b5d77b01f3

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:39:52 +0000

The Canals of Amsterdam

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:41:41 +0000
Bikes and cars use the bridges that pass over the canals of Amsterdam. There are so many bridges crossing the city, that every time a person rides they have nonstop views of the different canals. At night, the views are even more spectacular.

Bikes Along the Canals

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:46:11 +0000
Because biking is the fastest way to get around the city, and the Dutch have long since incorporated riding in their daily lives, it is very common to see old cruisers locked up all over Amsterdam. Some sidewalks and bridges will be packed full of them, while others have just a few here and there. You can't go a minute in this city w/out running into a bike.

Charles River from Cambridge

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:12:25 +0000

Charles River near Watertown

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:15:42 +0000
As I biked along the river, the waters got more and more still, and the river started to get narrower.

Twitter Updates for 2009-06-19

admin — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0000

Check us out on Gizmodo. Paratrooper Folding Bike! http://tinyurl.com/kj3za4 #

I like it! http://bit.ly/D6SdA #

Montague Swissbike folding TX and CX go to the beach

admin — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:33:09 +0000

Hi Swissbikers!

After missing out on the beach for several weeks, this past weekend a friend and I decided to go to Singing Beach in Manchester, Massachusetts. With a bit of research, we discovered that the commuter rail stops right in the center of town, and the coast is a short 5 minute bike ride from there. We filled our backpacks with beach necessities, grabbed our Montague Swissbike TX and CX bikes, and headed for the train station. Upon arriving at the station downtown, we folded up our bikes and took them inside. We purchased our roundtrip tickets to Manchester and boarded the commuter rail just in time. There was plenty of room to store our folded bikes underneath our seats, so they were kept out of sight for the duration of the trip. We got asked a few questions about them, as travelers considered buying Montague folding bikes for their commutes.

After about an hour we reached Manchester and eagerly got off the train. There was a local market right by the train stop, so we decided to get some groceries and drinks before heading to our destination. We quickly unfolded our bikes and locked them up at a bike rack outside the store. After spending some time in the market, we each came out with a bag filled with a sandwich, fruit, water, and some other things to munch on. We loaded up our panniers on the back of our bikes, and finally headed off towards the ocean.
[caption id="attachment_197" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Singing Beach - Mancheser, MA"][/caption]
After a short but quietly beautiful ride up and down some hills, we came to a clearing on our right and saw the white sands with the dark blue waters behind them. It was early in the morning, so the beach was still fairly empty. We rode down towards the water to the smoother, denser sands and then rode alongside the waves to the far right side of the beach. We jumped off our bikes, emptied out our panniers, and folded up the TX and CX. We then used the two folded bikes to hold down our large beach blanket. Another great use! After quickly getting our things settled we both ran into the refreshing water and realized that all it took was a little pedaling and just a short trip on the train with our Montague folding bikes to get a carefree day away from the city.
[caption id="attachment_198" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="Footsteps Along the Beach"][/caption]
Ride Safe,
Swissbike

Singing Beach - Mancheser, MA

admin — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:51:14 +0000
A view of the beach around noon, when more people came out to enjoy the nice weather.

Footsteps Along the Beach

admin — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:53:00 +0000
We went for a walk up and down the beach as we munched on fruit.

Forget the Excuses: Ride a Montague!

admin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:03:34 +0000

The Question: Should I start riding a bike to work? The Answer: Absolutely. It’s time to discover the joys of commuting on two wheels.

Many commuters convince themselves that driving is the only way to get to work. It isn’t true. Biking is quickly becoming a popular and fun way to get to work and back. With a Montague folding bike, the stresses of gas prices and traffic can be cut down. Our full-sized bikes ride great in all environments, whether it be on country roads or city streets. The bikes are then quick to fold and store in a carrying case for those who want to commute in multiple ways. This makes it very easy to take the bike on public transportation or store it in the back of a car. Make your commute the greatest part of your day instead of the worst, while saving money and adding to your overall wellbeing.

We found the most common excuses people use to avoid riding a bike, and came up with some easy solutions to get you pedaling:

It’s too far for riding

Combine riding and mass transit to shorten your route

Carpool: ride to a coworker’s house (fold up your bike and put it in their car) and drive to work

Drive your car halfway, find a parking space you can use, and ride your bike the rest of the way

I’m out of shape

Ride slowly at your own pace

You will get in better shape the more your ride, and it will become easier

Riding will help to reduce stress, improve your self-esteem, and increase your productivity at work

No bike parking

With a Montague or Swissbike, you can fold your bike and store it under your desk, in a closet, or a storage area

Nowhere to shower

Most commuters don’t shower at work; ride at an easy pace to stay cool and dry

Keep a toiletry kit in your office and use it to freshen up

I have to dress nicely for work

Keep multiple sets of clothing at work

Roll your clothes and pack it with you and change at work

I have things to do that you need a car for

Add a rack, panniers, or a basket to your bike for more carrying capacity

Give yourself a little more time to get to scheduled appointments

The weather is bad

Even if you only ride in pleasant weather, you will still be making a huge difference for yourself and for the environment on those days

Start riding only in nicer weather as you get more and more confident on your bike. Then you’ll be more ready for inclement weather

Having fenders and rain gear make the ride more comfortable

The roads are dangerous

Do a test run on a day off to get familiar with the roads and find easy routes

You are at no greater risk than driving a car

Minimize risk by riding properly – visibly and predictably.

Maintain your place in the roadway

Always wear a helmet

Follow rules of the road and use hand signals

Reduce the risk of riding in traffic by using less-congested secondary roads.

Combine bicycling and transit with a Montague or Swissbike today!
Ride Safe
Swissbike

Montague Bikes on the Minuteman Trail

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:10:13 +0000
Hi All, It was a weekend of rain and drizzle in New England, but that didn't keep us from wanting to go on an adventure. With 3 Montague folding bikes and 3 riders, we decided to spend our Saturday afternoon traveling up the Minuteman Bikeway. The bike path is an 11 mile long paved trail that runs from Cambridge, Ma, starting at Alewife Station, to Bedford, Ma. As children, we had frequented the trail with our parents, so we were excited to ride down memory lane for a few hours. [caption id="attachment_243" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Minuteman Bikeway Logo"][/caption] The three of us wore our raingear and left before noon to head towards Alewife Station with two Swissbike TX bikes and one Montague CX. We were lucky to be able to ride to the trail, but many people drive their cars or take the train to get there. In those situations, it would be great to have Montague folding bikes like we did. The commuters could ride the train at any time instead of only during the off peak hours because they could fold their bikes and put them in cases. Also, the drivers could avoid fussing with bike racks on their cars, especially on that rainy day. We arrived at the beginning of the bikeway in no time and joined the other riders, joggers, and skaters who were braving the weather. The traffic was steady but low, so we could alternate our spots frequently as we biked in a line. Within two miles we reached the beautiful Spy Pond in Arlington. The pond is a hundred acres around, with one island called Elizabeth Island. We sat here for awhile as we drank some water and took in the scenery. It wasn’t a bright sunny day, but the fog and mist made for a cool backdrop as the geese swam around. After our stop we hopped back on our Montague bikes and kept going. [caption id="attachment_245" align="alignnone" width="199" caption="A Quiet Trail"][/caption] The Minuteman Bikeway is great for leisurely riding, because there are a lot of other people using it throughout the day. We knew this going in, so we were completely happy taking our time and enjoying the pace. We passed by lots of stores and restaurants as we came to different intersections, and many others came off and on the path at these stopping points. After about 4 miles from our break at Spy Pond, we saw signs for Arlington Reservoir, which meant we were close to Great Meadows. During the ride we had decided that we would picnic there and then ride back to our homes. We finally reached Great Meadows, the wetlands that take up over 180 acres in Lexington, Ma. We stepped off the path and folded up our bikes so we could wander around a bit. With our bikes in hand, we found the pathway that easily led into the upland knolls. We were looking for one in particular, Glacier Knoll, which we knew had a view of the marsh. After walking some way, we passed some boulders and eventually reached our goal. We set down our folded bikes and surveyed the area. There were a few other groups hiking and walking around Glacier Knoll, a few people were even bird-watching. We laid out a towel we had brought with us and unpacked our sandwiches and snacks for a picnic in the mist, overlooking the marshlands. After our feast we grabbed our bikes and walked to the Finger Marsh, then we turned around and headed back to the bike trail. Once we got back to the bike path we unfolded our bikes, with a few onlookers curious to see how it worked, and we hopped right back on the trail for the ride home. We slowly made our way to Cambridge as the sun peeked out a bit. The Minuteman Bikeway was definitely a fun way to get some exercise and visit nature just outside of the city. It was definitely fixed up a bit since I had last ridden it as a child, and seemed very convenient for those who commute around the areas the path leads through. Montague riders should check it out! [caption id="attachment_246" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="The Minuteman Bikeway Map"][/caption] Ride Safe! Swissbike

MinutemanOnBike

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:37:15 +0000
There are signs with this logo all over the bikeway. He rides in the direction you're riding.

Quiet Trail

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:39:10 +0000

A Quiet Trail

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:40:06 +0000

The Minuteman Bikeway Map

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:40:48 +0000
The map shows the bike trail leading from Alewife Station all the way into Bedford, Ma.

Montague Folding Bikes Go Where Other Full-Sized Bikes Can’t

admin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:27:01 +0000

We’ve all seen the signs: “No Bikes Allowed”. Your heart sinks a little as you realize you’ll have to either lock up your bike somewhere outside or skip where you were planning on going. While it’s great news that more and more people are riding, there are still some places where bicycles are not allowed. These places can include office buildings, shops, and various types of public transportation. The great thing about having a Montague folding bike is that I don’t have to worry about breaking any rules when I go around the city.

Whether commuting to work or just going out for the day, folks are cycling as a way to keep themselves and the earth in better shape. At a time when encouraging alternate modes of transportation is on the forefront of helping the environment, prohibiting bicycles from certain areas seems outdated. But since it’s still an issue, why not still try to ride your bike while following the rules?

[caption id="attachment_250" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="This commuter rode halfway then boarded the train for the rest of the way to work."][/caption]

Having my Montague full-sized folding bike is a great asset. I ride my bike all around the city, and when I get to work I just fold it up and carry it inside with me. Once in the office I put it under my desk until I’m ready to ride back home. There have been instances also when I have been out doing errands and there were no places outside to lock up my bike. I couldn’t roll it inside with me either, so I folded up my ride, threw it in its carrying case, and brought it into the store. I had a full-sized bike right there with me, but there was no fuss.

So next time you’re out and you face the “No Bikes Allowed” sign, think about how a Montague folding bike can make the situation very simple. Just fold up your bike, put it in the case, and you’re good to go!

Ride Safe!

Swissbike

Commuting to Work with a Swissbike TX folding bike

admin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:32:26 +0000
With a Montague folding bike, you can take your bike on the train even during peak rush hour times.

Bike Commuter Uses His Head

admin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:33:59 +0000
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Captured near Boston University in Boston, MA, a student uses his head to transport a new trash can."][/caption] Hi All, This image was captured one afternoon near Boston University in Boston, MA. A very clever student figured out how to transport his newly purchased trash can back to his dorm room. Although not entirely safe, we're giving him 10 points for ingenuity as a bike commuter. This is obviously not a replacement for a helmet, but at least he can see through it. Who needs a car when you can use your head and ride your bike! Send us pictures of yourself riding Montague Swissbike folding bikes! Ride Safe! Swissbike

Student with Trash Can Helmet

admin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:48:03 +0000
A Boston University student rides his bike while transporting a trash can on his head.

Why We Should All Ride Bicycles More

admin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:24:42 +0000
We as bike riders know all the wonderful reasons why riding is a great way to commute or just have some fun. Some people may have forgotten these reasons, so we are here to remind you! 1 - Riding a bicycle is a chance for you to discover a different world, and bring that world into your daily life. 2 - Biking is economical. No matter how much you read about this fact, you will never fully understand just how much money you can save while feeling better about yourself on a bike. 3 - While riding, you really get to absorb all the sights and sounds around you. Whether you’re riding through the city taking in the rush of the morning commute, or biking by a beautiful lake on a hidden trail, feeling the wind in your face makes the trip come alive. This is even truer during a late night ride when the streets are so quiet. 4 - Riding a bike clears your head. Starting and ending your day with an invigorating ride is a great way to stay focused and relieve stress. 5 - You don’t feel as rushed when you are riding, because you control how fast you go and know how much time to give yourself. It’s an awesome feeling to get somewhere on your own without depending on a car or having to deal with bumper-to-bumper traffic. [caption id="attachment_284" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Riding with a Swissbike TX and a Montague CX"][/caption] Being one on one with the elements and feeling empowered on the road, these are the things that really make riding a bicycle worthwhile. If the commitment seems to large at first, take your Montague Swissbike folding bike out, and ride a part of the way. You will still feel great about the experience. We want to know why you ride your bike. Tell us how riding benefits you!

Ride Safe,

Swissbike

IMG_3189s

admin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:15:01 +0000
Two girls ride through the city on their Montague Swissbike folding bikes.

Montague Bikes and Zipcar Partner on Low-Car Diet Program

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 19:15:43 +0000
Cambridge, MA – July 15, 2009 – Montague Corporation, the world leader in full size folding bikes, announces its partnership with Zipcar in launching their Low-Car Diet. Zipcar’s Low-Car Diet gives people the opportunity to experience a healthier and less expensive lifestyle. By handing in their car keys for one month, participants will incorporate biking, walking and the use of public transportation into their everyday lives. This month-long program has great personal, environmental, and economic benefits. Montague will be supporting the low-car lifestyle by giving away a SwissBike TX folding commuter bike to a lucky participant in each of the 13 major Zipcar cities worldwide. These bikes will play an integral role in demonstrating the full potential of the Low-Car Diet. By using a Montague SwissBike in conjunction with Zipcar, participants have yet another car-less mode of transportation, easily able to bridge the gap between public transit and driving. Montague’s folding bicycles can quickly compact to fit in the trunk of a Zipcar, allowing participants to drive part way, park, and pull out their folding bike for the rest of the journey. This new “Park & Ride” concept makes multi-mode transportation practical and convenient. “This partnership is essentially an extension of our personal philosophy,” said David Montague, president of Montague Corporation. “It’s based around the idea of giving people the ability to choose to the moment how they would like to move, be it by bike, walking, public transportation or Zipcar. The Low-Car Diet easily demonstrates how various modes of transportation are not mutually exclusive, but can work as compliments providing users with different options allowing them to choose the most efficient means of moving.” All Montague bikes quickly fold down to 36” x 28” x 12” without the use of tools. The entire package weighs about 30 lbs making it easy to transport while folded. The bikes come standard with 26” wheels and eyelets for racks and fenders, and are also serviceable at any local bike shop. The SwissBike TX has an MSRP of $699.00 and is available through www.swissbike.com. About Montague Corporation Montague Corporation is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts and is dedicated to advancing cycling through the development of inventive technologies that provide its customers with an unprecedented combination of performance and convenience. Visit www.montaguebikes.com or call toll free (800) 736-5348 for more information about Montague Bikes and SwissBike products and technologies.

The Roadies on their Montague folding bikes

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:24:00 +0000

The Crewmembers love their new Montague folding bikes

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:28:52 +0000

Montague Folding Bikes Hit the Music Scene

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:29:27 +0000

We recently had the privilege of meeting the crew for the bands Judas Priest and Whitesnake as they made a concert stop in Massachusetts. We hooked these guys up with some of our Montague and Swissbike folding bicycles, and in turn had an amazing night with some rock stars and the men who help them sound so good on stage.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="333" caption="David demonstrates just how easily one can fold up the Montague CX bike, as the others watch and learn. "][/caption]
The roadies were a really fun group of guys. They goofed off as they rode their new Swissbikes in the backstage lot, and watched in amazement as we demonstrated how Montague bikes fold and unfold. They loved that they could put their new bikes underneath the tour bus with the rest of the luggage.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="648" caption="The new Montague Swissbike LX folds up and fits comfortably underneath the tour bus along with the other luggage. "][/caption]

Then they took us on the stage before the show began, and we got to check out the instruments before they were played at full force during the concert. We also got to go inside the Judas Priest tour bus and see the way the band travels.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="As proud owners, two of the crew members pose with their new Montague folding bikes."][/caption]
We had a fantastic time at the show. Thanks for a memorable time boys, and we hope you enjoy your Swissbike and Montague folding bikes!

Ride Safe,

Swissbike

Montague Swissbike folding bike underneath the Tour Bus

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:32:17 +0000

Now or Never: Time for a Summer Bike Ride

admin — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:17:31 +0000

A warm 82 degrees, the unobstructed views of the blue sky, and my Swissbike TX folding bike: makes for a perfect bike-ride. I love the days when I wake up and realize the whole day is mine, and mine alone. No obligations. No plans other than to do something fun for myself. These rare occasions are only made better when I look outside my window to see clear bright blue skies and the warm sun beating down. I recently had one such morning and jumped at the chance to do, what else, but go for a bike ride. I unfolded my TX and headed out. I took my time meandering through the city, feeling sorry for those stuck in bumper to bumper traffic in their cars as I pedaled by them. There's nothing like taking a bike ride in the summertime.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague Swissbike CX and TX folding bikes cruise the Commons"][/caption]

So go ahead; spend a bit of your day cycling around. With the sun on your shoulders and the wind in your face, you will always feel better. Riding my Swissbike TX helps me leave the worries behind and feel like a kid again. Next stop, riding at the beach.

Ride Safe,

Swissbike

Montague Corp Partners with Zipcar!

admin — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 18:48:50 +0000

On July 15^th, Zipcar announced its one-month ‘Low-Car Diet’ program. The program gives 30 residents in 13 cities worldwide the opportunity to test drive a low-car and less expensive lifestyle, with economic and environmental benefits. Montague Corp has teamed up with Zipcar this year to promote cycling as part of a healthier way of life, and we are giving one lucky contestant in each participating city a Swissbike TX folding bike!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="333" caption="David Montague with a Swissbike XO folding bike"][/caption]

The event last week was a huge success. We were there as Boston’s Mayor Menino spoke about his support for the 'Low-Car Diet' and his confidence in people being able to get around without the use of personal cars. Everyone was really fascinated with the folding technique of the Swissbike XO as we demonstrated how quickly and easily it can fold up and store in the back of a Mini Cooper.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Folded Swissbike XO in Trunk"][/caption]

We’re really excited to be a part of this program, and can’t wait to see more people riding bicycles. The Low-Car Diet along with the use of bikes and public transit will help participants realize a positive and manageable change in their lives. Thanks to everyone who came out for the occasion, and keep riding!

Ride Safe,
Swissbike

Saturday’s Were Made For Riding

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:36:18 +0000

Another Saturday came and went, and another one was successfully spent riding my bicycle. I had decided to go out for a nice ride regardless of the weather, and recruited my friend Steve to go with me. To my pleasant surprise it was a warm, sunny day. To my discontent, it was so humid I felt as though I could grip the air around me. I got on my Montague CX and met Steve in Cambridge for a quick bite before we headed over the Longfellow Bridge into downtown Boston.

After a bit of riding we decided to make a stop at the Public Gardens to sit by the pond. We found a patch of grass by a large rock and plopped down for a breather. Normally the ride so far would be a synch, but the humidity level instantaneously made my head feel a bit weird. This is why it’s always a good idea to have water when riding. After we got our fill of people watching and some water to drink, we got back on our bikes with no real destination.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="438" caption="Montague CX and Swissbike XO"][/caption]

We rode all around and through the city streets, braving the tourists and the searing sun. After a lot of riding I was finally satisfied to make another stop. We rode out to the river and took another break. There was an exceptional amount of bicycle riders out on the Esplanade, and I even saw a few friends wave as they rode by.

Steve and I split up at the bridge, and I went back towards Cambridge to do some photography while the sun was still bright. All in all it was a great day spent on my CX, and I look forward to more weekend rides before the summer comes to a close.

Send us your riding pics!

Ride Safe,

Swissbike

Solo Riding with my Swissbike TX

admin — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:49:13 +0000
Hi All, Hope your weekend was well spent. Have you ever come home after being away for a few days, to realize how much you’ve missed your bike? On one such Sunday, I decided to go for a short solo ride: Me, my bike, and I. If you are like me and prefer to ride alone or in small groups, a night ride is the perfect ticket. You can go at your own pace to any destination with no one else to answer to. On this night I just wanted to feel the wheels of my bike beneath me, and the wind in my face. Before I had even unpacked my duffle bag from the weekend, I got ready to head out on my Swissbike TX. I ate some food, filled my nalogene bottle with water, and stocked my backpack with some Clif bars and an apple. I decided early on to purposefully get myself lost to create a route I’ve never ridden before. I meandered through the narrow side streets that I normally coast past during the day. They were dimly lit with the street lights and the flickering of television sets as families sat together on their couches. After only a few minutes I ran into an unexpected find, a small raccoon curiously sniffing around. I decided he might be more foe than friend, so I didn’t get too close. I then crossed over a main road in search of more streets I hadn’t been down. [caption id="attachment_332" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="City Street"][/caption] I passed old brick warehouses and little restaurants I have to remember to try out someday soon. About 30 minutes later I was sufficiently lost and not quite sure if I was still in the same city. I drank some water and munched on a Banana Nut Clif bar while I decided which direction to go in. Left seemed appropriate. I tried my best not to psyche myself out, realizing that I had wanted to get lost in the first place. I was enjoying the mysteries of my surroundings as I started to read street signs for some idea as to where I had ended up. Sure enough, after riding around for awhile longer, I came upon the river I knew so well and found my way home. [caption id="attachment_330" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Charles River at Night"][/caption]

Charles River at Night

admin — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:35:25 +0000

City Street

admin — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:52:55 +0000

Read what they're saying about the Paratrooper...

admin — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:53:16 +0000
Check out what Core77 is saying about the Paratrooper folding bike. Sweet ride, and ready for anything. http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/military_folding_bikes_the_181st_airborne_division_can_now_pop_wheelies_13954.asp [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague Paratrooper folding bike"][/caption]

View of the Atlantic

admin — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:13:19 +0000

Cruising the beach on a CX

admin — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:13:34 +0000
I got a free day to go to the beach this weekend, and I brought my bike along in the trunk for the trip. Once we got to the beach we unpacked the car, including my CX in its case, and picked out a sunny spot on the sand. I couldn’t wait to go for a bike ride, so I unfolded the CX and rode along the firmer sand by the water about 2 miles to the end of the beach. It was a beautiful ride looking out onto the Atlantic. Once I got to the far end I followed a pathway that led away from the sand and into the oceanfront town. I weaved in and out of tranquil neighborhoods with the warm sea breeze in my face. I said hi to the locals who were curiously inspecting my unique folding bike. I really felt the heat of the sun after awhile, so I followed the sounds of the gulls and found my way back to the beach. I rode back down onto the sand, folded up my bike and threw it back in the case, and ran straight for the water. Perfect. If you're looking for local beaches in Massachusetts, here's a list of some great ones. Get out there and take advantage of the warm weather! Ride Safe, Swissbike

MX Mountain Bike Tests the Back Roads

admin — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 23:50:38 +0000
I was in the suburbs the other day, so I decided to test out a Swissbike MX mountain bike and see how it would do in the hidden paths and main streets up there. After a late lunch I unfolded the MX and headed out for a ride with a few others. We started off riding on the main roads fist, avoiding the rush hour traffic as much as possible. The bike, although a mountain bike, did very well on the paved streets dodging obstacles every which way. Once we entered into the next town, we decided to find some dirt paths in the hills and really put our mountain bikes to the test. The dirt on the first path was very loose and rocky but the MX felt very secure and held up when I took turns. The frame felt really sturdy over the jumps and rocks. We veered off after awhile and got on another path where the dirt was more packed down. We went over a few steep hills, and the gears switched smoothly and easily. It was thrilling to go down almost vertically and the suspension soaked up the bumps. At one point, we encountered large patches of tree roots that were awesome to push up and over. All in all it was a very stable ride with great handling and movement. And at the end of the day I folded it up and stored it in the closet. This bike is a keeper!

Sprawling Tree Roots

admin — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:35:25 +0000

Jamaica Pond

admin — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:34:43 +0000

Crystal Lake

admin — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:36:00 +0000

Destination Lakes and Ponds

admin — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:36:17 +0000
The other day a friend of mine and I wanted to bike around. We decided to go on a long ride and visit a few different lakes and ponds in the area. I got on my TX and he had his LX with him. We left Cambridge and headed downtown over the bridge. Our first stop seemed to be an obvious one: The Public Gardens. I manage to stop here pretty often to people watch. We lied in the grass as we ate some ice cream and watched the tourists take pictures of the Swan Boats. After some down time we hopped back on our bikes and rode up busy Newbury Street towards Fenway. We stopped at the Fens park for a very short period and continued on to Jamaica Pond. This is one of my favorite ponds, and it’s a pretty quick ride just outside the city. We spent about an hour slowly biking around the pond on the trail, stopping to chat with people and to watch the boaters fishing. [caption id="attachment_363" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Jamaica Pond"][/caption] A short distance from Jamaica Pond is Hammond Pond out towards Newton. That was our next stop as we cruised parallel to the highway. There weren’t nearly as many people around this pond. It was peaceful. We soon realized that we were getting hungry, so we rode to Newton Center, about 20 minutes away. We found a perfect pizza place so we folded up our bikes and brought them inside with us. Everyone wanted a demonstration so I showed them really quickly how to unfold and fold my bike. [caption id="attachment_364" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Crystal Lake"][/caption] After some delicious pizza and a lot of water, we unfolded our bikes and headed to our last destination of the day, Crystal Lake. I used to go to this lake as a kid, and hadn’t been back in a very long time. When we got there, we stopped and stared at the pristine water. The colors were stunning. We sat and chatted for a long time, until it was time to ride all the way back to Cambridge. It was a very long riding day and the bikes were very comfortable and convenient. The little time we got to spend with nature will keep us sane until next weekend. Ride Safe, Swissbike

David Byrne of ‘Talking Heads’ auctions off his Montague CX

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:58:24 +0000
David Byrne, co-founder of the band Talking Heads, has been traveling with his Montague bike for four years on tour. However he’s been riding a bike for much longer than that. David recently wrote a book about his love for cycling, and all the places he’s been on two wheels. The book ‘Bicycle Diaries’ comes out on September 17 in the US, and he mentions Montague Bikes in his stories. [caption id="attachment_371" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="David Byrne with his Montague CX"][/caption] Also doing his part to help the cycling community, David has decided to auction off his world tour Montague CX folding bike to raise money for the London Cycling Campaign (LCC). He talks about how the folding bike was convenient as he was traveling from one city to another. The CX bike is up for auction now on Ebay, and the bidding closes on August 16. Montague Bikes is so proud to be a part of David’s travels and love of cycling, and we hope that the bike auction raises a lot of money for the LCC. We can’t wait to read the book! You can find David Byrne’s journal here. Ride Safe, Swissbike

David Byrne with his Montague CX

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:07:46 +0000

‘Gear on the Go’ in the Baltimore Sun!

admin — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:27:27 +0000
We were recently featured in the Baltimore Sun in a news article titled ‘Gear on the Go’. It’s a great piece on the Swissbike TX folding bike. The writer took a TX for a road trip in the trunk of his car and rode it around the city and in some wooded areas to test out its commuting and mountain capabilities. Check out the article here! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Graffiti Shot with Montague SwissBike TX folding bike"][/caption] Ride Safe, Swissbike www.montagueco.com www.swissbike.com

A Couple Takes Their Montague MX Bikes to Sea

admin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:32:01 +0000
We recently stumbled upon a great blog created by Susan and Dan. They are an amazing couple who is sharing their story of sailing around the world on their boat Gypsy. They purchased Gypsy in 2008 and began their journey in hopes of traveling the oceans, checking out new destinations, and meeting interesting people along the way. There are many people who love being on their boats, and they've told us that Montague folding bikes are the perfect additions to their travels. Since these bikes are also great in saltwater environments, sailors know they will hold up well. Dan and Susan are a perfect example. Dan writes about their new Montague MX folding bikes, and how the two of them ride them around whenever they reach land. On August 2, they rode around Block Island with their matching bikes. Dan actually touches upon the fact that they both picked the same exact bike; it’s a funny little blurb. I really enjoy the real-life topics that they address as well, such as protecting the oceans, and the funnier tales about run-ins with animals. What a great site. From stories about boating with friends to the constant upkeep of their boat, this blog is humorous and touching. We’re glad we could help in their travels, and hope they get good use out of their Montague MX bikes as they make stops on land. It seems that they are truly taking advantage of every moment on their journey. Check out Dan and Susan’s blog here! Ride Safe, Swissbike www.montagueco.com www.swissbike.com

Katie is presented w/ her new Swissbike TX!

admin — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:43:35 +0000

Katie gets a roasting by comedian Norm Laviolette

admin — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:45:17 +0000

'Low Car Diet' Winner of the Swissbike TX!

admin — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:46:23 +0000
Hi All: Last Thursday night was great! We were invited to Zipcar's Low-Car Diet “Grand Finale Event” to present a SwissBike TX commuter bike to the winner. The event was held at the very cool Improv Asylum in the North End of Boston. The Zipcar Low-Car Diet Challenge is an event in which 30 volunteer participants from 13 cities turn in their car keys and commit to a healthier lifestyle by walking, cycling or using alternative methods of transportation. Some participants actually sold their cars and are going cold turkey! The lucky winner was Katie Aliberti from Cambridge. [caption id="attachment_381" align="alignnone" width="224" caption="Katie is presented w/ her new Swissbike TX!"][/caption] She holds down two jobs while raising a family. Instead of using a car, for 30 days Katie went about her business by walking 30 miles and riding a bike 90 miles. After receiving her bike she was called up on stage again and was given a light roasting by comedian Norm Laviolette. [caption id="attachment_382" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Katie gets a roasting by comedian Norm Laviolette"][/caption] Although the crowd roared with laughter, Katie held her own. Katie was absolutely thrilled at winning her bike. On stage she said “all I could think about was winning this Montague bike.” Congratulations Katie and keep riding! Ride Safe SwissBike www.montagueco.com www.swissbike.com

The July Winner of the Montague DX Crossover folding bike!

admin — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 21:52:23 +0000
Hi All, We just awarded one of our newsletter subscribers with a new DX Crossover! This month’s winner, Brett H. from New Hampshire, was very excited to learn that he was chosen. He just picked up his new Montague DX folding bike. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Congratulations Brett!"][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Brett and his new DX Crossover folding bike!"][/caption] Brett figured out how to fold his bike right away, and had no problems storing it in his car trunk. Here are some shots: [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Releasing the Quick Release Lever."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="333" caption="Brett with Montague DX Crossover bike."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Storing his Montague DX folding bike in the trunk."][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Folded and Stored his Montague DX bike!"][/caption] He will soon be moving to Brooklyn, New York for Graduate school and said he is eager to use his new bike there. This folding bike is the perfect solution for a city dweller and commuter. Congratulations Brett and we hope you enjoy riding your new Montague DX folding bike around the big city! Ride Safe, Swissbike www.montagueco.com www.swissbike.com

Amanda James Carrying a Swissbike TX folding bike

admin — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:03:41 +0000

Montague Bikes 'Makes the Fold' in the Boston Herald

admin — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:11:01 +0000
Hi All, Great news! Montague Bikes was recently featured in the Boston Herald in an article talking about the perks of using a folding bike, specifically the Swissbike TX commuter bike. The TX is the perfect bike for cruising around the city, with slick tires and a lightweight frame for easy lifting onto trains and buses, or even into the office or apartment. Amanda James rode the TX folding bike during her 5 mile commute to work. She says, "the bike performed as well as my regular, full-sized bike. Thanks to front-end shock absorbers, I barely noticed potholes or the vibration of going over a curb." She goes on to say that "the bike folded easily, was easy to store and attracted attention from everyone in the office." [caption id="attachment_409" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Amanda James Carrying a Swissbike TX folding bike"][/caption] Amanda demonstrated that riding a bike to work is a great way to save time and money while getting in some exercise to wake up the mind and body. Even for those who don't want to ride all the way to work, she touched upon the fact that "with a folding bike, you can drive part way to work, then take the bike out of your trunk and finish the trip". It's a flexible way to still ride even if you live too far from work. David Montague adds, "Just going cold turkey by immediately getting rid of your car is more than a lot of people are willing to do. Riding part of the way to work is more of a realistic jump for people who want to be healthy and help the environment at the same time." We're proud to have a local following as well as our customers worldwide. Check out the article here! Ride Safe, Swissbike www.montagueco.com www.swissbike.com

European Bike Lane

admin — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:30:58 +0000

Montague/Swissbike Booth at Eurobike

admin — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:33:53 +0000

CIMG1875small

admin — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:39:45 +0000

Montague Folding Bikes at 2009 Eurobike!

admin — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:54:20 +0000
Hi All, We recently took a trip abroad to participate in the 18th EUROBIKE show in Friedrichshafen, Germany. We were very excited to visit Europe where they have an incredible biking culture. [caption id="attachment_417" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="European Bike Lane"][/caption] At the show our bikes were among the more than 300 premieres and innovations from around the world. The Messe was filled with over a thousand other exhibitors from 42 countries, a wonderful sight for those of us who love everything bike-related. There was lots of interest surrounding our bikes. [caption id="attachment_418" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Montague/Swissbike Booth at Eurobike"][/caption] The show was a huge success and we definitely enjoyed ourselves. The next stop is the INTERBIKE show in Las Vegas! We will be there from September 23-September 25. Come visit us at our booth (#4409) and check out the bikes for yourselves. You’ll be in for some surprises! Ride Safe, Swissbike

Boston Cycling Celebration

admin — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:35:47 +0000

Mayor Menino's Boston Cycling Celebration

admin — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:37:21 +0000
Hi Riders, Next weekend will be one of the greatest cycling weekends on the East Coast! Boston’s Mayor Menino has planned two days of exciting riding. On Saturday, September 26, professional racers, champions, and Olympians will be racing through Government Center starting at City Hall. They will be whizzing around the streets of Boston. There will also be a kids race for ages 3-6. For the schedule of races visit here. At night there will also be a free concert for the racers and spectators. [caption id="attachment_427" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Boston Cycling Celebration"][/caption] On Sunday, the Hub On Wheels citywide ride and festival will be taking place to help raise money for Boston Public School students. This ride will take the bikers through all the different parts of Boston. About 6,000 riders from all different levels will be taking part, riding down Storrow Drive and other city streets that will be open to riders only! Click here for more information or to register today! We're proud to support this great weekend of cycling! Ride Safe, Swissbike

Montague Bikes at Interbike!

admin — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:31:54 +0000
Hi All, We're having a great time at Interbike. There's lots to see and do, and our folding bikes are a hit! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague Booth at Interbike!"][/caption] The "Fastest Fold Competition" is still going on, so test out your bike folding skills. The winner will be announced at the end of the show. Come by the Montague booth (#4409) if you're in Las Vegas to see the bikes for yourselves. We'd love to answer any questions as well. Hope to see you at the booth! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Montague Bikes Participate in a 100K Rally!

admin — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:01:03 +0000
We recently received a great story from a Montague CX rider in Texas. Hugh just completed his first 100K rally riding his Montague folding bike. Hugh and his son-in-law, Robert, rode a total of 65.2 miles at an average speed of 15.1 mph, proudly showing off their Montague CX bikes! There were a total of 14,000 riders who participated in the event, and Hugh said their bikes drew a lot of attention. Here is a photo of the two men at the finish line of the 100k Rally in Wichita Falls, TX. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="CX in 100k Rally!"][/caption] Thanks for sharing your story Hugh, and congratulations! RideSafe, Swissbike

DX Crossover at the Velodrome!

admin — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:27:17 +0000
Mason Tripp, put up some great photos today on our Facebook page. They're pics of himself riding his Montague folding DX Crossover bike at a Velodrome. It looks pretty exciting! Check out all the photos! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague DX Crossover folding bike in line at the Velodrome!"][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="604" caption="Montague DX crossover folding bike at the Velodrome!"][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague DX Crossover folding bike at the Velodrome!"][/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Mason with his DX Crossover folding bike at the Velodrome!"][/caption] Thanks a lot for sharing Mason, and we hope you had fun! Montague riders, keep sending us stories and pics of your riding adventures. We love to see them. Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Fastest Folding Contest at Interbike!

admin — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 20:36:00 +0000
During this year's Interbike show from September 23-25 '09 in Las Vegas, we held the "Fastest Fold-Off Contest" at the Montague Bikes booth. Interbike is the largest bike show in North America, where buyers and retailers from all over the world come to see the newest and latest bicycle products and models. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Montague Bikes booth at Interbike 2009!"][/caption] We would like to thank all those who participated in the event. Over 70 contestants stepped up on stage to give their best shot at folding our bikes as quickly as possible. The average folding time was around 13 seconds, pretty impressive! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="334" caption="Montague Bikes booth at Interbike 2009!"][/caption] Here are the top 4 ranking fastest folders who took part in the contest: 1) Kevin Penrose - 3.72 seconds 2) Carter Bishop and Rob Mahe - 4.31 seconds (tied) 3) Roman Roth - 6.38 seconds Everybody did an amazing job, and it was awesome to watch. Congratulations to the winner, Kevin Penrose, from Electric Cyclery in Laguna Beach, CA! Kevin won the $500 prize with his unbelievable folding time of 3.72 seconds. His speed was witnessed by the time keeper and a cheering crowd. Kevin's time could possibly be the fastest full size folding bike record ever! We had a great time, and can't wait to see if anybody out there can beat Kevin's fastest folding time! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Sustainable Product of the Week!

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:10:19 +0000
Montague Bike’s own Swissbike TX was chosen this week as Product of the Week at www.greenyourapartment.com! The article talks about how the folding Swissbike TX bike is perfect for commuters. The bike can be ridden to work and folded underneath a desk. It can also be taken on the train or put in the trunk of a car for those commuters who like to bike part way to and from work. Riders can even drive somewhere to get away, then take their bike out of the trunk for a leisurely ride. Montague folding bikes are convenient as well as good for the environment, your wallet, and your health. Let us know where you ride with your Montague folding bikes! Ride Safe, Swissbike

Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:31:17 +0000

Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:32:36 +0000

Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:34:03 +0000

Paratrooper bike folded next to a robot inside an MRAP

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:35:11 +0000

Paratrooper Folding Bicycle in Iraq!

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:30:49 +0000
We recently received images from a Sergent in the front lines in Iraq, who is using his Paratrooper folding bike out on the field! The Sergent goes out in his MRAP to find and remove bombs. Here are some pictures of the bike being transported on his MRAP. [caption id="attachment_475" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_474" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_476" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Paratrooper folding bike on the outside of an MRAP"][/caption] Here is a shot of the Paratrooper bicycle folded up and stored next to a military robot inside the tank. The robot is sent out to find the bombs so that they can be eradicated. The Paratrooper is also used as a tool. It can be unfolded once a destination is reached and ridden for added transport without the need for the MRAP. [caption id="attachment_477" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Paratrooper bike folded next to a robot inside an MRAP"][/caption] The Sergent will be taking his bicycle on deployments with him too! We want to thank him for sharing his story with us, and look forward to hearing and seeing more. RideSafe, Swissbike Montague Bikes

Paratrooper Folding Bike on A-Z Bushcraft!

admin — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:46:27 +0000
Hi All, The Montague Paratrooper folding bike has been featured in a video on A-Z Bushcraft! Andrew Price points out the benefits of having a bicycle while out in the wilderness. Whether camping or traveling off road, a bicycle allows a sort of freedom to get around that walking and driving can't compare to. A bike is perfect because it enables you to go anywhere you would be able to go by walking. The perk is that it can be done more quickly and efficiently. Also the Paratrooper can hold lots of gear which makes mobilizing much easier without having to carry everything while on foot. He touches on the environmental benefits of the bike, a quiet way to get around without the need for fuel. It gives the freedom to stay at a camping spot or leave whenever one pleases, knowing the trip to the next spot will be fast, free, and without the need to stop for fuel. Andrew also talks about the versatility of the Paratrooper folding bike, which can fold down to fit on a train, airplane, or trunk of a car. Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Bicycle Riding on the Rise!

admin — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:53:51 +0000
Hi All, As many bike riders already know, getting around on a bicycle is not only a lot of fun, but it is cost-effective as well. In the past year, more and more Americans are starting to agree with this concept. An increasing amount of commuters are riding on two wheels in exchange for their cars. There are noticeably more and more cyclists in the bike lanes; it is such a great thing to see. Cities across the country are taking positive steps to promote cycling and push more people to ride instead of drive. In Columbus, Ohio, they recently received a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to build facilities that will aid cyclists in their city. Cities like New York and Portland are continuing to see an increased number of riders on the streets, with the numbers steadily rising. Bike sharing programs have also popped up to lessen traffic congestion, cut down on city pollution, and improve physical activity. Cities like Washington D.C. and New York City are promoting these programs for locals and tourists alike so they can get the experience of riding and get around more efficiently even if they don’t own a bike. Bike sharing is perfect for running errands or even going for a ride with friends. Check out these top 15 cities where biking, walking, & public transit are the best means of travel. Bike riding is such a good way to get around town. It allows for a feeling of independence, and freedom from train schedules or bumper to bumper traffic. It forces you to really see the areas that you pass by everyday. Whether the weather is warm or not, there’s something invigorating about the wind in your face as opposed to the air conditioning or heat blasting through the vents of a car. It’s a way to save money, get exercise, and get your brain working. Being focused on riding and letting all the stresses disappear for those moments makes every ride worth it. Montague Bikes is proud to be a part of an active growing trend that benefits everybody physically, emotionally, and economically. Get out there and Keep Riding! Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Paratrooper Bikes Used By Police & EMT's.

admin — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:46:42 +0000
Hi All, We recently got some great photos of Montague folding bikes from our distributors in the UK. These white Paratrooper folding bikes were designed for EMT's and police officers: [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="292" caption="Paratrooper - Search & Rescue"][/caption] The bikes come in real handy for ambulance crews during large events. They ride around to better patrol the crowds. When they are done for the night, they just fold them up and stow them in the ambulance. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="471" caption="Paratrooper - St. John Ambulance"][/caption] Police officers have been using bicycles as an active and efficient way to patrol as well. They can get around any city quickly, and also go places where cars might not be able to. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Paratrooper Police"][/caption] The Paratrooper is a full-size, 24-speed mountain bike designed to endure any terrain at high speeds. It is a high performance bike designed to also be folded up and thrown in the back of any car or truck when not in use. This is why it is and is a popular choice among Special Forces, Law Enforcement and Emergency Patrol Groups. Thanks to our UK distributors for sharing the photos! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Montague Bikes Taiwan Hosts Event!

admin — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:06:53 +0000
Hi All, Our distributors in Taiwan, Yark, recently held an outdoor event to promote the Montague Paratrooper folding bike. They planned a full day of activities in Green Park to bring riders and spectators together and encourage them to ride bicycles using the many bike lanes and paths in the area. They even had trial rides through the park bike paths. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600" caption="A Woman riding a Montague Paratrooper through Green Park."][/caption] Dancers performed for the crowd to kick things off. One of the activities they had was a Fastest Fold-off Contest. Participants challenged each other to see who could fold a Montague bike in the least amount of time. It looks like they had a lot of fun! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600" caption="The Winner for Fastest Folding!"][/caption] It looks like the day was a success and everybody had a great time! Thanks to our Taiwan Distributors for putting together a great event! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Hunt. Taiwan Goes for a Tour Around the Island!

admin — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:37:20 +0000
Hi All, Our Taiwanese Distributor Yark sponsored Hunt. Taiwan for a trip through Taiwan. Hunt. Taiwan is a cycling team, and many of them rode all over the country with Montague folding bikes! It looks like they had a great time riding through the cities and mountains of the island. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Hunt. Taiwan - Yark"][/caption] They did however encounter a few challenges along the way: In the first part of their trip they rode through a tsunami, giving them "iron legs". They also rode through very strong headwinds all along the coast. There was heavy rainfall for other parts of the trip as well, sometimes lasting all day and night. Taiwan is a beautiful country, but it is also known for its sub-tropical humid climate. Before they began the ride, they became well-educated on bike maintenance, first aid, and self-help. They always had the appropriate amount of water and rest to prevent injuries. They also adjusted their riding time to make the experience as relaxing and comfortable as possible for everyone involved. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Hunt. Taiwan - Yark"][/caption] They of course had to make modifications to their pre-arranged routes and plans as well, all a part of completing a tour like this one. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Hunt. Taiwan - Yark"][/caption] They wrote that their Montague bikes were a great choice as they rode for consecutive days through the mountains. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Hunt. Taiwan - Yark"][/caption] It looks like an unforgettable experience all around! We look forward to their next exciting journey. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Hunt. Taiwan - Yark"][/caption] Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

West Marine Features the CX 21 Speed & DX 18 Speed from Montague Bikes!

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:56:21 +0000
Hi All, We recently came across two great videos from West Marine featuring Montague folding bikes . Chuck Holly describes how Montague bikes can fold down to fit on any boat for those who love to travel be sea. All Montague bikes have an aluminum frame which prevents rusting, ideal in salt-water conditions. When a boat docks or makes landfall, Montague folding bikes can be unfolded for a full-size ride in any city, town, or village. It is very quick and simple to assemble the folded bike and hit the road. It is just as easy to disassemble it into a very compact package for convenient storage on or under the deck. Montague bikes are available in different sizes as well, making it simple to find a size that fits best for you. The CX Comfort is a 21-speed bicycle offering mountain bike performance with an added comfort package - [caption id="attachment_584" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="CX Comfort"][/caption] The 18-speed DX Crossover bike is a great all-around bike perfect for cruising through the city or countryside - [caption id="attachment_585" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="DX Crossover"][/caption] These bikes offer durable riding with a great folding technology that does not compromise the frame. For those who love to sail, there is a peace of mind knowing that once they make it to shore they have a fast and fun way of getting around. Thanks to West Marine! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and SwissBike www.montaguebikes.com www.swissbike.com www.militarybikes.com

CX Open

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:16:12 +0000

DX Crossover

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:17:29 +0000

Bike Covered in Snow

admin — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 21:49:54 +0000

Montague Folding Bike Stored in Closet

admin — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:44:31 +0000

Boarding the Train

admin — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:47:12 +0000

Montague Bikes Keep Dry in the Winter

admin — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:47:42 +0000
Hi All, Winter is in full swing, and the streets are once again covered in rain, snow, and ice. For those of us who will continue to brave the cold weather and ride with the frosty breeze on our faces, parking and storing wet and slushy bikes can be a real burden. We found this bike outside the other day covered in frozen snow. [caption id="attachment_591" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Bike Covered in Snow"][/caption] With Montague bikes, you can fold up your bike when you reach your destination and take it inside where it will stay dry and safe. In the city, it is often faster to get around by bike than in a car. When a sudden snowstorm begins, the unavoidable chill of a downpour, simply fold up your bike and hop on the train, in a cab, or on a bus and stay warm for the rest of the trip. [caption id="attachment_597" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="Boarding the Train"][/caption] If the weather is too bad to ride to work in, just leave the bike in the trunk or in your closet. [caption id="attachment_596" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="Montague Folding Bike Stored in Closet"][/caption] Having the multiple options of a Montague folding bike make commuting and traveling easy and stress-free. Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

Riding Over a Cliff on a Montague Folding Mountain Bike

admin — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:44:41 +0000

Paratrooper Folding Bike

admin — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:49:19 +0000

Montague Swissbike LX in the trunk of a car

admin — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:53:54 +0000

Montague Bikes - Full-Size Folding Mountain Bikes!

admin — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:55:33 +0000
Hi All, Folding bikes are growing more and more popular these days, and it's great to see people riding even in the winter cold. Mountain bikes that can fold can still be a weird concept for some, as most riders don't really think of the two going together. Until now. Montague Bikes is the world leader in full-size folding bikes, and that includes their models of full-size folding mountain bikes. [caption id="attachment_611" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Riding Over a Cliff on a Montague Folding Mountain Bike."][/caption] The Paratrooper is one of the many folding mountain bikes that Montague offers. Its patented folding design was developed and designed to allow airborne soldiers to drop out of airplanes and helicopters into combat. Known for its durability and load bearing capabilities, this bike has also developed a following with everyday commuters and weekend warriors. [caption id="attachment_612" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Paratrooper Folding Bike."][/caption] The Montague SwissBike^® LX folding bike is another model, with 24 speeds, front suspension fork and front disc brakes. The LX is a full-size bike with full-size performance, but folds to fit in the trunk of a car, or in a small closet. [caption id="attachment_613" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Montague Swissbike LX in the trunk of a car."][/caption] Many bikers have taken their Montague folding mountain bikes on adventures all over the world. These bikes are built to outlast and make it through any obstacle, with the added benefit of being able to fold. These rugged bikes can handle any terrain and carry a ton a gear. Also, if there is an area that needs to be walked, Montague bikes can simply fold up to be carried. With the strength and convenience of these bikes, you will never want to ride anything else. Check out this article that highlights Montague Folding Bikes! Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and Swissbike

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:16:09 +0000

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:20:06 +0000

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:23:48 +0000

The New Montague Crosstown Folding Bike - Stylish & Simple

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 18:56:14 +0000

MONTAGUE BIKES IS ANNOUNCING THE RELEASE

OF A BRAND NEW FULL-SIZE FOLDING BIKE:

The Montague Crosstown Folding Bike!

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

The new 2010 Crosstown is a one of a kind pavement bike that is perfect for practical commuting. It is unique in its look and functionality. It's an easy to use folding bike offering 7-speeds, 700c tires, and the CLIX™ Wheel Release System. It also features a new invention called the Octagon, a stem that is height-adjustable with just a simple click of a button. This allows the rider to have the handlebars at whatever height feels comfortable.

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

The Crosstown model focuses on providing an easy, versatile bike for a wide range of activities. “For 2010 we wanted to create something light and fun, with a strong focus on simplicity and utility. The Crosstown was the bike that emerged from this development process” remarks Jonathan Vandenberg, Montague’s lead developer of the Crosstown.

2010 Montague Crosstown folding bike

While taking your favorite route around town or finding new paths to work, the Crosstown maneuvers effortlessly so you can concentrate on enjoying the trip. This hybrid commuter offers performance, portability, and an elegant style for a ride that’s sure to attract attention. It folds in under 20 seconds without the use of tools, offering flexibility in today's multi-tasking world.

The Crosstown is available for purchase at a suggested retail price of $659.

Ride Safe,

Montague Bikes and SwissBike

www.montaguebikes.com

www.montaguebikes.com/crosstown

www.facebook.com/foldingbike

2010 Paratrooper Folding Bike

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:30:58 +0000

2010 Paratrooper Folding Bike

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:35:56 +0000

Introducing the 2010 Montague Paratrooper Folding Bike!

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:49:14 +0000
MONTAGUE BIKES IS ANNOUNCING THE RELEASE OF A BRAND NEW FULL-SIZE FOLDING BIKE: The 2010 Montague Paratrooper^® Folding Bike! A classic from Montague, the rugged 2010 Paratrooper^® folding mountain bike is now even more advanced with front and rear mechanical disc brakes with brake pad adjustment. This mountain bike is really ready for anything. Designed to drop from the sky and land prepared for action, the Paratrooper^® folding bike can tackle any terrain, and stash in your trunk for the ride home. [caption id="attachment_665" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="2010 Paratrooper Folding Bike"][/caption] The 2010 Paratrooper^® still uses all standard 26” mountain bike wheels and components serviceable at any bike shop. The Paratrooper^® quickly folds down to 36” x 28” x 12” without the use of tools. The entire package weighs about 30 lbs making it easy to transport while folded. The versatility of the bike is perfect for those who want a sturdy and comfortable ride that can easily be stored in small aircraft, boats, car trunks, closets, and offices. [caption id="attachment_666" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="2010 Paratrooper Folding Bike"][/caption] The Paratrooper^® has an MSRP of $799.00 www.montaguebikes.com www.militarybikes.com www.facebook.com/foldingbike Flickr

Montague FIT fFolding Bike Goes on the Train

admin — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:40:57 +0000

Riding a Montague FIT Folding Bike Over a Bridge

admin — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:41:09 +0000

The 2010 Montague FIT Folding Bike - High Performance & Speed

admin — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:48:28 +0000
MONTAGUE BIKES IS ANNOUNCING THE RELEASE OF A BRAND NEW FULL-SIZE FOLDING BIKE: The 2010 Montague FIT Folding Bike! [caption id="attachment_681" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Montague FIT Folding Mountain Bike"][/caption] The all new 2010 FIT performs marvelously and is very unique in its look and functionality. It is a lightweight, 700c, flat bar road bike with a low-spoke count, ideal for fitness and commuting use. It folds in under 20 seconds without the use of tools, offering flexibility in today’s multi-tasking world. The FIT is a fast, sleek road bike that can maneuver around the city, and fold up to go aboard a train or bus for ultimate versatility. [caption id="attachment_677" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Montague FIT fFolding Bike Goes on the Train"][/caption] It is the perfect bike for everyday riders and weekend warriors. It comes in 17” and 19” frame sizes, has 27 speeds, and a brand new feature called the Octagon. The Octagon is a stem with a unique design allowing for handlebar height to be changed while preserving the way the bike handles and rides. The post has an octagonal shape, so steering remains engaged raising or lowering the stem. [caption id="attachment_678" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Riding a Montague FIT Folding Bike Over a River"][/caption] The FIT is available for purchase at a suggested retail price of $1299.00. Ride Safe, Montague Bikes and SwissBike www.montaguebikes.com www.montaguebikes.com/fit www.facebook.com/foldingbike

Montague FIT Folding Mountain Bike

admin — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:56:35 +0000