Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Critical Mass Mumbai


CM-bike-salute
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers

What a superb Critical Mass in Mumbai on 27th Dec 08.

Can be called as the first CM officially because the first was done in 2001 by group of college students, but then not one bothered of doing it again.

So after 7 years CM has been started in Mumbai again.
This will continue every last Saturday of the Month at Shivaji Park so be there.

Altogether 46 Cyclist were present for the ride. Was accepting some where between 60 to 100 cyclists.
Half of them were fresh face. Please do come for the next CM. (don't disappear).

However because of festive season most of them didn't turn up. Never the less, ride was successful.

We started at 5:45 pm because of Media. And also a group of college students had come, who work with a NGO Pukar. They came to take down some pointers from cyclists. They are collecting data and will be coordinating again with us.

We reached Juhu in about a hour's time.

Very impressive ride. Lot of young and energetic faces. Please maintain the same energy and momentum. We have to achieve lot of things in Mumbai for cyclists.

There was no causalities luckily or any kind of accidents.

Some thing we learned from the ride.

Some where just going a head and some were way behind.
So the motive of CM was lost. We are also planning to make some small banners which can be hooked on to T-Shirt or Bag. So that we are notice on roads.

Click Here for More Images
All images by Hitesh

For People who are not aware of Critical Mass Ride

Click the link

Monday, December 1, 2008

Candle March Ride...


Taj
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
Following the terrorist attack on Mumbai, We deiced to drop the plan of Critical Mass Mumbai ride.

We decided to meet on a Sunday and decide the next CM plan. Sorry for not inviting others, as this was sudden.

Meet point was Aarey colony at 7 am.

People who joined for the ride were, Raksha, Seema, Manish, Ashok, Prakrit,

Balram, Noel, Akshay, Kunal, Praneti and two friends forgot their name, and me.

It was a pleasant morning in areay colony; we decided up on the normal route what we ride. However after reaching half way Manish suggested a new trail(Sun Set point). Very nice place. We were deciding upon the CM plans and strategies about how to make Mumbai free from traffic and other problem. blaw blaw blaw.

Balram suggested of riding till Nariman Point coming Sunday. However some one
From the group murmured of doing the trip today itself; that’s on 30th Nov.

Some how all of us agreed and one of Raksha's friend was attending the peace walk near Taj (Church gate).

So we decided and started riding towards Taj at 9 Am in the morning.

We reached Taj at 11:30 am along with some flowers; distance covered was 44 km.

But unfortunately we couldn't get in the place as people had started creating a mess every where. As you can see in the image. More Images

Cops were asking people to leave the place. But since we were on cycle some cops were kind enough to us and allowed us to stay back. So some of us tried to take the flowers, but again were not allowed :(

Then later on we had a big glass of Sugar Cane juice opp to Taj Hotel.

We agreed to windup for the day. On our way had some heavy snacks, since it was already time to have lunch, and also had to ride back another 40 km.

We opt Harbor line to ride back, as that is much closer as compared to western Mumbai.

A very nice and a long ride after few months.

Cheers to all the three girls for riding along. Keep up the good work.

Next ride National Park (Borivali).

Thursday, November 20, 2008

AareyColonyRide

Hello Bikers,

Coming Sunday 23Nov 08 I will be riding areay colony.

Let me know who all are in.

Meet up time at 7 am western side aarey entrance.

Some one from TOI wants to meet us to know more about group and ride
details. So hope more number of people turn up.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Critical Mass Ride Mumbai

Hello all you bikers and People who care for Environment,

This is to inform you all that Critical Mass ride is going to happen this month on the 28th Nov 08 in Mumbai. From (Dadar Shivaji Park to Juhu Beach) just one side.

Ride will start by 5:30 pm from Shivaji Park (Dadar)

And depends on traffic when we reach Juhu (andheri).

Distance covered will be approx 10 km.

NO ONE HAS ORGANIZED IT AND THERE IS NO LEADER FOR THIS CM RIDE, EVERY ONE IS BY HIMSELF AT THE RIDE.
Be prepared, may be cops may block us from riding. But we will not adhere to their command.

We have not organized any rally so we don't need any permit.

If you want get Posters and fliers (But not too big) to show you care for environment or you care for Cyclists on road. (may not be a good idea, but i will be getting)

current situation.

If you say Mumbai is polluted and congested and many such (PROBLEMS) sitting in a vehicle or at home and blame govt, you are not right. GOVT should listen to our voice. So we ride for things to be sorted.

This will also benefit for people who drive their car daily. because if you ride cycle with us for one day; it will inspire others to ride and you make way for your car to reach on time and fast.

So the point is

- The whole system is a big MESS. Need to rearrange it. Not completely but at least some part of it.

I guess every knows this Phrase.

"If not Me., then who: if not now, then when?"

So please spread this to as many people as possible.

Also don't forget to get as many people for the ride.

PS: Date and times are fixed no changes (as Friday; 5:30 is a office time so will get a chance to be noticed and seen by many people)

No offence: - If Marathi manoos really care for Mumbai and can support Raj Thackeray.

Then I don't see any offence in riding CM and supporting this cause. Hope to see all Maharashtrian reading this mail for the ride.

-> If you are looking for cycle rentals from bandra do let me know.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Ride_Alert_Marve_Mhad 1st Nov

Meet Time: 6:30 am
Meet Point: Mith Chowky near old Uncles Kitchen

Contact: anoop(dot)hnsc@gmail.com

Helmet / Cap
Water / Energy Drink(electral,Glucon-D, etc.)
Light Snacks
Cash (useful for emergency)

Meeting point is mith chowky, we ride till Madh Jetty, rest for some time.. and head back.
Roads are good condition and also during morning hours vehicles will be very less.

keep cycling.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

BICYLCE PROJECT

People give out your old bikes if you are not using it.

_____________________________________

THE BICYCLE PROJECT

Give your old bicycle to a village school child

In villages located a couple of hours outside Mumbai, there are several children walking miles to get an education. This is the generation that will bring about a change for the better – for their families, their villages, and who knows, maybe even the country and some day, the world!

Going to school is the most important thing for these kids – and they know that. Which is why no distance is too long – and walking for hours is normal because missing school is not an option. Whether rain or shine, blistering heat or freezing cold, these children do their best to get to school on time, everyday.

We're asking you to help these children by being part of
the bicycle project.

What is the bicycle project?

We're collecting your old bicycles, which are probably of little use to you now and lie rusting on the terrace,compound or behind the garage. After giving them a new lease of life, we're going to deliver these bicycles to the village kids in and around Maharashtra.

Phase 1 of this project will help children in the villages of Thappar Pada, Wada and Vikramgarh.

You will be able to come and visit these children at any time if you wish to see how your simple gift of an old bicycle can make a huge difference to their lives.

Why should you bother helping?

Well, we're hoping it'll give you that warm fuzzy feeling inside that comes from helping those less fortunate than you. But honestly, if you care about the state of our country, its easy to see that children's education is a number one priority right up there with the nutritious food, clean water and unpolluted air – things that children all over the world rightfully deserve. Your bikes, bought for a number of reasons, are lying useless and gathering rust. That same bike can get a child to school – a child who might turn out to be a doctor, lawyer, teacher or even a scientist some day.

What do you have to do?

You could pick up the phone and call Hemant or Sangeeta Chhabra on these numbers022 65701730 or 9820149022 or you could email them at sangi2007(at)hotmail.com. They'd be happy to have the bikes picked up and refurbished at their own cost, after which they will pass them on to deserving village children.

Who are these people?

Hemant and Sangeeta believe in the strength of togetherness and community – they want to make a difference in gentle and practical ways. One of them is by building an organic, sustainable environmentally friendly farmhouse called HideOut in Jhadpoli village. This has been the base for several camps where city kids are exposed to the nuances of rural life and are gently reintroduced to the concept of nurturing nature. Adults too are welcome here to relax, to reconnect with themselves and to de-stress from the rush and push of daily life.

Why are they going to all this trouble?

After interacting with their tribal and villager neighbours over the last 20 years, this couple has been wanting to give back in as many ways as possible, to these simple folk. This was the germ of the idea behind the Bicycle Project. This is not about collecting funds, starting an NGO or roping in celebrities to get media attention. They just want these kids to stay in school and secure a chance for a brighter future. Wouldn't you?

Warm Regards
Sangeeta & Hemant Chhabra
For Hide Out
off 29209030
(Mob) 9820149022

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

National Park Ride (26-Oct-08)

Meet Time 6:45 - 7 am.
Meet Point: National Park Gate(Borivali)

Contact: anoop(dot)dhc@gmail.com please mail me will forward the concered person number.
as i will not be riding for 2 to 3 weeks.

People Coming from far may try using the trains(since the place is not far from the Borivali Railway station.Procedure:Buy usual railway ticket.Then visit station masters office on platform and ask for receipt to carry cycle in luggage compartment. Costs-117-120 Rs. Please ask before hand if the same receipt can be used for return journey.
National Park entry is charged. Rupees 20 for cycle. So please carry cash.

Also please carry:

Helmet / Cap
Water / Energy Drink(electral,Glucon-D, etc.)
Light Snacks
Cash

Cycling in National Park is really awesome. No pollution. Hope to see many cyclist.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Bike Tour of Nilgiri

Hi Bikers,

Ravi Ranjan Kumar from Bangalore along with Rakesh and Rajesh Nair and few others have organized Tour of Nilgiri. Bike ride in the Blue Mountains (Nilgiri), Southern Part of India.

This going to be a 7 days ride taking you through most
of Blue Mountains.
Plan is to cover 125Kms every day, and restricting it to Road racer bikes only.
For more detail please have a look at Blog

Just FYI, the total cost of the 7 days tour could be about 10K rupees,
and we plan to spend and divide it equally among participants without
making any profit, as that is not the intention. The intention is to
promote the Eco-tourism.

cycling in Nilgiri Mountains will be fun...

Aarey Colony Cycle ride 19-Oct


DSC00282
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
Another cherish able ride.

It was fun. There were 17 cyclists all together.

I still remember 15 June, when 13 cyclists had turned up in aarey colony.
Just we four were present in that ride. (asif, praful, vikram, anoop)

Rest all for today's ride were fresh faces. (13), I mean they were just fresh for the aarey ride. Most of them have come for other rides as well.
(romit, ruchika, renny, aditya, vikas, ben, venkat, noel, prabdhua,
kaushik, yogi, vikram, nelson)

There are lots of cyclists in Mumbai and around, and a couple of cyclists couldn't make it today as some work had come up.

More Images

Ride was fun; we also did some off road. Thanks to Ben.
Will upload some more photos later. As I get them.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Kanpur bomb blast on (cycle) 14 Oct 08

what the hell is wrong with terrorist.

Is it not the responsibility of cops to check from where RDX and other stuff comes, instead of accusing and find the cycle owner.

people lock you cycle any where you go.

Check the link for more info

RIDE ALERT (19th Oct 08)

Meet Time: Between 6:30 to 7:00 am on 19th Oct 08 Aarey Colony Trip)

Meet point:

Western Side : Western Side entry for Aarey Colony is at Goregaon/malad on Western Express
Highway.

Eastern Side: LnT Signal after powai lake off JVLR.
renny will be coordinating for eastern side.

Both sides can co-ordinate and meet at the foot entry of aarey colony
guest house gate.

Contacts: please mail me anoop(dot)dhc@gmail.com

Distance: from one toll naka to other will be less than 10 to 15 km


CHECK MAP FOR DIRECTIONS

http://maps.google.com/maps/mm?ie=UTF8& ... 26608&z=15

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Keep up the good work(yagnesh)


iexpress
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
This is very interesting.

I have not met this boy, but we had a lot conservation over the phone.

He is keen in promoting cycling as a means of transport.

Best of luck to you yagnesh, and we are always here to support.

link to his site

Monday, October 6, 2008

Borivali National Park to Gorai_manori and back on cycle


Manori1
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
5th Oct 08

Eleven cyclists gathered at Borivali National Park (Borivali).
PS: three had just come all the way from Pune to cycle.

We all started riding by 9 am.
Used bhyander route and rode via kashimira route towards gorai beach.

Took a hault at gorai beach. Refueled our self and then headed towards manroi and then took a launch and headed towards marve. (Malad).

Then via sv road left for borivali national park (start point).

MORE IMAGES

Cycling in gorai and other inner parts was fun.
But cycling on Mumbai roads was bit difficult because of dust and pollution and because of unbearable heat.

Total distance covered 45 km.
Renny 68 km.

Friday, October 3, 2008

Cycling from Mumbai to Shirdi (Ahmadnagar) on 31st Oct and back by 5th Nov (600 km)

A group of CYCLIST from JOGESHWARI every year rides CYCLE from MUMBAI to SHIRDI and back. Since last 6 years.

Last year there were 50 cyclists. Although some are missing in the image. Click for more images

A total of 600 km. One side is 296 km; from Mumbai to reach Shirdi on cycle it will take 2 an half days.
So if every thing works well on 2 Nov people will be at Shirdi and on 5th Nov every one will be back home.

This year they will be riding on Oct 31st 08. And already 50+ cyclists have registered.
PLEASE SEND ME A MAIL WHO WANTS TO JOIN

Rupees 500 is the entry fees. This will include accommodation and food and also any maintenance issues with the cycle. (PS: imported bikes will be excluded since not all the equipments will be available, so please guys carry your stuff in the tempo provided accordingly)
Also jersey and shorts will be provided.

A tempo accompanies them along with 3 to 4 motorbikes, you can check in the image bikes and tempo in the background.
People will be split in group of ten members each headed by a leader.

This is not a fun ride. And also no fooling around.

People get back to me if any concerns.

PS: They are looking for some more sponsors, please look out if any one interested and let me know.

Cycle to Work

I hear lot of people have started cycling to work.


Fellow cyclists who cycle to work in Mumbai are Raksha, Ashok and Mallik. Want to keep a track please let me know who all cycle to work in Mumbai.


Since Oil prices have gone high. And will keep going high. Check this link

And to maintain a Car also is a big pain and investment, as compared to a cycle.


While riding cycle, best part is no signal, no cops to harass on the roads and may more benefits.

We make our own roads.


And never to forget the feeling of not polluting the roads after reaching home.


It shapes your body and earth send a little extra love to cyclist.

Its being 9 months I have been cycling to work on Mumbai roads.


People find it wearied, when I tell them I cycle to work.


Now let me tell this to every one, riding a bike for 15 to 20 km is not a difficult task and it can be accomplished in an hour time.

Also you don’t need to have an athlete body. You will develop it gradually.

And gradually you can reduce the time to half an hour or so.

Get a good cycle.


Now the point is Mumbai weather not suitable for riding cycle.

I believe it is one of the best weather to ride cycle or do any physical work.

You will sweat and get tired, so what replenish and get back to work.


While riding cycle always look at your back (don’t turn back) just peep out and keep a watch at the vehicles coming towards you, after a few pedals. This will develop once you have started riding regular.


I wear a jersey and a jeans pant while going to work.


Things to carry along with you while cycling to work.

-water

-helmet or cap

-towel

-extra t-shirt & pant (if possible arrange for a locker)

-deo or perfume

-facemask

Fellow cyclist please suggest if any thing else has to added here.


Always lock your cycle to a stationery object.

Build rapport with the security guards; behave like they are your family members. Hahaha…


Just be a extra careful while riding back home during evening as number of vehicle are more on the roads also lot of unethical drivers.

Who don't care for anything.


Please correct me if i went wrong some where.
Happy Cycling

Friday, September 26, 2008

Timeout Magazine


Timeout Magazine
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
This is a sep-19th to Oct-2nd edition.
This article was all about the active cycling clubs in and around Mumbai.
First let me tell you a bit about me.
Cycling in Mumbai is not fun during peak hours, because of pollution and congested roads; this is almost the same in all part of the world. NO one is ready to quit cars and motorized transport. So I started cycling to work.
Every one talks of pollution and sh*t but no one is ready to sacrifice.
Some one has to sacrifice. So I travel daily approx 26 to 27 km to and fro to office.
And as there was no cycling club in Mumbai, I wanted people to get organized. Ride one day on roads like kings where no motorist messes up with you. Also had a plan to set up a site. But then that is a pain to maintain along with work, cycling and my tybcom studies… and also my nature course.
I want see Mumbai on cycle.
I was featured along with Jo, Kaustab and Yagnesh in this magazine.
Now it’s not just we four, we have Renny from thane, Vikram from borivali, Vikas from panvel... and many more people...
We all have one motive in common... TO SEE EACH AND EVERY ONE ON CYCLE.
Less pollution and congestion. And yes a healthy life.
Happy Cycling

Sunday, September 21, 2008

buscrashes_boys_thane_TMT

This is bad.. small kids crushed to death.

driver should be punished. I guess one of his family member should be crushed and see how he reacts.

This is not just with me and the poor kids who were crushed.
this happens to every one.. on a cycle.

Some thing has to be done.

requesting for separate lanes will not work..

Planing to start Critical Mass.

so that people know were are also on the roads. and we have equal right on the road.

let me know who all are ready.

once in a month we ride along a common track on a weekday during semi peak hour.

Gorai Uttan Belt Ride


uttan1
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers

Today 21st Sep 08.

Plan was to ride gorai uttan belt.

Some of them couldn't make it.

7 of us started off from Natinal Park. We headed towards gorai creek, but for our

More Images

Bad luck. Boats were not working as there was a protest in gorai.

So we decided to go via bhyander(kashi mira side).

Highway ride was real bad. Lot of pollution.

But after reaching bhyander it was pretty nice. But then Renny had a flat tyre, some of us way head. and later some thing or the other kept happening. Because of which lot of time was spend.

Finally we decide to touch southern most part of Uttan. A steep uphill was kick ass man...

only hector got it with out a break. as almost every one was exhaust.

On our way back on the same slope. Vinay met with an accident. Brakes gave up. and he some how struggled to keep him on the roads with the help of a fishing net and barricade of the road. flew..that was close man.

Riding was fun as well tiring.

Ride stats.

Dist covered: approx 70 km. bertram and renny almost 100 km.
Avg speed: 20 km/hr
Top speed: 50 km/hr on the slope haha... but on roads top was btwn 35 to 40 km/hr.

Next ride Thane.

Keep Cycling.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Freedom_Ride 067


Freedom_Ride 067
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
This is my new mask, which i will be wearing on my way to office.

Thank you Francis for sending this amazing mask.

With this mask as compared to older mask breathing is pretty easy and no smoke or fumes enter.

Its very nice, for mumbai or any other polluted roads. Can breath proper and good material. kind of mixture of rubber and plastic and filter can be replaced in just a min.
and also edges stick to face leaving no gap.

this was the first time i tried, so the filter is still clear, after 8 to 10 hour of ride in the following days.. filter got a dark muddy apperance.

And this time i know who made this mask. can check this site totobobo.com

or mail Francis on totobobomask(at)gmail.com

thank you Francis.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

TOI


TOI
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
This is one of the most successful and memorable ride so far.

Around 35 cyclist got together at National Park for the Freedom Ride.
on 15-Aug to promote the word of cycling.

we rode through S V road from kandivali to Bandra and then using worli link road till mantralaya. and then finally till Gateway of India.

the only sad part was, cops escorted us all the way, since it was Independence day.

We disturbed pamphlet along the way and informed people about the benefits of cycling to environment and human beings.

Thanx to kaustab (RTEC) and other from his team.

We were also featured in

Dna, Marathi Times and I was interview by DD.

Hope more and more people switch over to cycling on roads.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Removing Rust from Chain

I am sure bikers,

many of you might have noticed rust on your Cycle chain after the rains.

One of the best and easiest solution.


1) Just take some lime juice, no water just juice (citric acid)
2) Steel wool (kata, mumbaikers will know this) or a spoiled tooth brush.
3) Worn out cloth, just to wipe the dirt.
4) lubrication (Oil, i prefer castrol 2t oil 10 rupees pouch)

Citric acid reacts well with iron oxide (rust).

Just dip steel wool or brush in citric acid and scrub on the chain.
and just wipe it with the cloth.

and just add few drop of oil.

Your cycle chain is clean as new.

Do post a comment after you try this simple cycling clean up.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Extreem Cycling Effects

On 25th Jul Friday. I met with a accident.

Actually while going to office it wasn't raining. However by afternoon it started heavily.

And water logging in Mumbai on road side is not a uncommon issue.

From Dmart (Malad) till mitk chowki is always jam.

I was riding through the extreme left of road.

On a avg speed of 10 km. When suddenly my front wheel got stuck in a big dam hole.
Thanks to our m*%&$^ f&%^% govt and their workers.

I fell right on my face, I tried to protect with my hand, But my hand also went into a diff hole. And i banged to the edge of the hole.

As i was wearing pollution mask, due to the sharp edge it split my nose.

I have got 6 stitches on my nose and 6 on forehead and 2 next to it.

I took stitches with out Anesthesia, so that i feel the pain and next time i ride safe.

But i am wrng.. i know. i will still be free and ride as i want.. do hell with the motorist.

hahaha... this is the next day image. Now my face is swollen. I look like a Alien.

I wish i die while riding a cycle, hey wait not know some time later.
Once i have enjoyed my Life.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Pollution Mask


Pollution mask
Originally uploaded by Mumbai-bikers
Pollution in Mumbai is real bad.

When it comes to cycling in mumbai roads, cannot take chances.

It just will degrade every dam thing on the way to lungs.

Ultimately will land up with Chronic Respiratory Problems.

so prevention is better than cure.

I used to tie two bandana on my face. But still i could feel and smell smoke penetrate through my nose.
and top of that breathing becomes a problem.

This mask is very nice. Can breath proper and no more smoke.

Hey do i look like Shredder from Ninja Turtles


thanks to the person who invented it.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Mumbai Roads hahahahaha




Nothing can solve mumbai traffic problem.

wait a minute... non-motorzied transport can.

Cycles!!!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Mumbai-bikers @ Churchgate

Hi bikers,

yesterdays trip was fun.

seema, betram, left for nariman point 6 am from bandra. even balram and i was suppose to reach bandra by 6 am.

how ever coz of me.. we left at 6:30 am from malad. i could sleep at 2 am. was on net.

madhav left from andheri with out gear cycle. good stamina.

mallik from kurla, again a avid cyclist.

balram and me reached point at 8 am. we covered in 1 1/2 hour till Nariman point from Malad.

from there we had our snacks and left for churchgate and balaram was planing to leave for alibaug. but no boat service during monsoon :(

on our way back varsha joined us, she stays near kalina. from bandra she caught up highway. we came through link road.

mallik came with us till juhu and headed back to kurla.

only sad part, heat was unberable.

AareyColonyRide15thJune08

15th June 2008 was one of the best cycling ride.

altogether 13 of us had joined.

we started of at 7 am from areay colony western side.

then we headed to areay milk production unit.

and then towards New zealand hostel.

some bikers had to rush back, since most of them stay far away.

8 of us then left for National Park.

we went near to canneri caves. did a small trek and headed back towards home.

i am not good at writing content.. so please bear with me and if any mistake do let me know.. thnx... :)

Thursday, June 5, 2008

4 Bikers At Nariman Point (Rohan Winner)

Rohan Gala won Big 92.7 Race Organized Today In Bandra, Mumbai

Sorry I do not have a solo image of Rohan.

Hey and dn't forget to buy Dna paper of tommorw (6th June 08)..about todays race.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Next Sunday Trip

Gr8 going guys,

Rohan Gala won Big 92.7 Race Organized Today In Bandra, Mumbai

This sunday we are riding to Thane Firefox show room.. some were around 30 to 40 km.. one side..

Let me know if any guys and gals willing to ride along.
Mail id is below. do mail me.

Hey and dn't forget to buy Dna paper of tommorw (6th June 08)...about todays race. and even check other papers.