Complete Streets are reality in Kansas City, Missouri!

Wed. 3/31/10. I rode to the Heart of America bridge ground breaking with a group of  great carfree/ lite folks. We met in Westport, made our way to City Hall, hooked up with some more riders,  and went to the event. This event is the ground breaking for a complete bike/pedestrian crossing over the Missouri River. For more info and the complete story you can go to the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation

Here is a short pictorial Journal: Enjoy :)

We met at 9am, led by Eric Rogers and Laurie Chipman

on our waya perfect day, 70s, sunny, windystopped at City Hall for a pic and to wait for othersmaking our way through downtown the Mayor supports cyclists and pedestriansMr. Brent Hugh, of the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation.

My helmet is off to all of you who sacrifice your time for those of us who want and need complete streets for our transportation needs! I bow to you...thank you!

Complete Streets!

Eric Rogers - a carlite commuter profile

Tell me a little bit about you (name, age, occupation, carfree or carlite, where you live).

"My name is Eric Rogers. I am a thirty-something resident of Midtown Kansas City, Missouri. My wife and I have a car-lite household. We made a conscious choice to live in a compact neighborhood that is near our jobs, has good transit service, and has all the essentials within walking and/or biking distance."

"I am web developer by trade, and I am also heavily involved in bike/ped advocacy on the boards of Let's Go KC and the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation. Part of that work includes organizing Kansas City's Bike Week events and the Car-Free Challenge program."

When did you start using a bicycle for commuting?

"I started bicycling for transportation around 1996, and got really serious about it around 2000."

What inspired you to start?

"My first job out of college didn't pay much, so bicycling and transit were good ways to avoid paying for parking. Plus, bicycling kept me in decent shape without the expense of a gym membership. Kansas City is a beautiful city with great architecture, interesting urban neighborhoods, and lots of trees. This makes for great bicycling that is never boring."

What is a day in your bicycling life like?

"I currently live about 12 blocks from work, so I actually walk to work more than bike. These days most of my bicycling is for non-work errands to the grocery store, library, hardware store, etc."

Do you recommend cycling to friends/family members/others? Have any taken you up on it?

"Several of my co-workers and friends have started bicycling for transportation in recent years, and I'd like to think I played at least a small part in some of those decisions. "

What kind of bike are you currently riding?

"My main bike is a mid-range hybrid road bike. I am not a racer or long distance touring cyclist, so I just need a bike that reliably gets me from Point A to Point B. I also have a folding bike that is very handy for traveling. I often take it on the train to Chicago, St. Louis, etc."

In your opinion, what’s the best part about cycling?

"Experiencing my city in a very intimate way, while getting a great workout."

What’s the worst?

"Our climate and terrain. Missouri has unpredictable weather in both winter and summer. And the hills confirm that Kansas City definitely isn't in Kansas. These are things that cyclists have to adapt to over time. And I think they make us hardier cyclists than people in flat cities with mild weather."

What are three pieces of advice you would give to someone starting/ considering commuting by bike?

1. "You don't necessarily have to bike to work. The average commute in the KC region is 20 miles, so bike commuting isn't always a good option. However, most of the non-work trips we take are under five miles - so it's really easy to bike for errands like shopping and such."

2. "Find compatriots, both newbie and experience commuters, to share experiences and advice."

3. "Don't automatically try cycling on the same roads you would drive to work. Kansas City is a grid city, so it's easy to find low-traffic side streets just a block or two away from the main arterial streets you are used to driving. Do a trial run on Saturday when traffic is light."

Anything else you would like to add?

"First, start small by going to a store or restaurant. Work up to longer trips and try leaving your car parked for an entire weekend."

"Second, take a hard look at where you choose to live and work. How far apart are the two? Does the neighborhood have sidewalks, crosswalks, tree cover, and an interesting streetscape? Are there services within a 10 minute walk or bike ride? Are there transit routes that go where you need to go and run frequently enough to be convenient? These things all effect your ability to live car-free/lite, and the quality of that life."


To learn more about Eric and the great work he has done for cycling and transportation go to:

http://kcbike.info/

The Online Mechanic, Auto Repair Help

I’ve always relied on my mechanic from my hometown for every minor, but mostly major repairs on my car. But here, of course, I’m expecting equally good mechanics but the costs are definitely not friendly.

While I can change a tire (when I’ve got friends to help me out), I really need serious help when I need the engine fixed.

But before I shell out cash, I’d like to explore more options. If I’m going to fix my car myself, I’d have to know exactly what I’m going to do, when I’m supposed to do it, and how.

A lot of car care and auto repair guide may be found online. You can check the internet for great tips on the following:

• Auto body repairs

• Automatic transmission replacement

• Bleeding brakes

• Car audio systems fix

• Changing oil

• Finding the causes for a bearing failure

• How to install a replacement ignition system

• How to upgrade an exhaust system

• Troubleshooting car stalling

• Troubleshooting car starting problems

Car repair guide found online are great because they are done by ‘regular people’. If something seems questionable, others would correct them and teach something new – a lot different from having one person check your car. People share what they know based on personal experience. If something seems complicated, most of the time, expert mechanics frequent and moderate these sites, with that you’ll know that a professional mechanic is overlooking all the discussions.

For emergency fixes, car repair tips online are available any time and any day. You won’t need to wait for the repair store to open to get it fixed. Even if it is late at night and you need a minor repair, help is just a few clicks away, and it’s free as well.

Car manuals are also available for download. With the exemption of luxury and sports car, most car manuals can be downloaded through forums, and the car makers’ official websites.

While the internet may be helpful in many ways, the one thing it cannot help you with is when you need to have the car checked of course. While discussions may be done online, for someone to actually check on the car is a different story – and your car can get fixed right away with it.

Also, while car repair is purely technical, some process might work with some cars while others would not. At times, it is a case to case basis where the solution might be unique to you. Because of the mechanical and electrical aspects, some are interconnected that it is difficult to discuss and offer advice when you only know certain portions of what’s going on.

Getting the web to help for car repair may help you compare prices or eliminate them all together when you do them yourself. If you are going to do so, prepare some muscle strength as handling cars isn’t easy nor light – literally. If you’ve got money to spare, you can go to a repair shop but still it is best to know how your car works. Just always be careful, when you are not sure of what you’re doing you might as well go to your trusted mechanic in town.

More motor guide ideas in my next posts. (;

very nice green Beetle from South Australia...

Here is a very nice German-look Beetle from South Australia. Enjoy this beautiful green machine!

very nice green Beetle from South Australia...

Here is a very nice German-look Beetle from South Australia. Enjoy this beautiful green machine!

beautiful day

the way I see it, since the good Lord made it such a beautiful day, there is only one thing to do: go for a bicycle ride!

Noah Dunker-carfree American profile

Tell me a little bit about you (name, age, occupation, carfree or carlite, where you live).

"I'm Noah Dunker. I'm 30 and currently unemployed, but I've made a career of information security and it looks like I'll be back in the game again shortly. I'm car-lite, and use my bicycle whenever it's practical to do so, which is almost always. I live in Lenexa, KS and I'm lucky to have so many things very close to home."

When did you start using a bicycle for commuting?

"In September of 2006, my car started acting up in such a way that it was not safe to drive it. The part I needed was on national back-order and I couldn't find it anywhere. I used some of my money to buy a cheap bicycle to get to and from the nearest bus stop, about 3 miles away from home. By the time I got the parts to fix my car, I was already hooked. As it got colder, I watched most cyclists hang up their bikes, while others, like Keith Gates, continued to ride, even in the snow. I wanted to be like that. "

What is a day in your bicycling life like?

"I use my bikes and the public transit system to get around. I do most of the grocery shopping for my family on my bike. I ride for trips to the post office, pharmacy, restaurants, and the like. I really don't go out too often just for recreation alone. I seem to get quite a few miles in just going to the nearby places that all my neighbors drive to. "

Do you recommend cycling to friends/family members/others? Have any taken you up on it?

"I occasionally suggest it to my friends and family, but I would never force the issue. I ride because it's fun and healthy. A few people I know have occasionally ridden to work after seeing me do it. "

What kind of bike are you currently riding?

"I've got two bikes of my own right now. One of the first bikes I bought when I got back into cycling was a Diamondback mountain bike, and I still have it. It's mostly used during winter. In May of 2007, I sold a car to buy a Trek 1200 road bike, which is my primary ride. I occasionally get other bicycles in to review them. This is cool, because it lets me get a feel for all kinds of different bicycles. Right now, I'm testing a heavy-duty bike inspired by European utility bicycles."

In your opinion, what’s the best part about cycling?

"To me, it all boils down to efficiency. It's almost miraculous how efficient a person (plus cargo) on a bike is when it comes to how much can be moved, and how far with so little energy used."

What’s the worst?

"Rainy days near freezing are the worst. I'd rather ride my bike in below-zero temperatures, or a blizzard, or a 100-degree day than ride in the rain when it's below 40 degrees outside, but I always make it through just fine."

What are three pieces of advice you would give to someone starting/ considering commuting by bike?

1)" It's all about the route. A good route to your destination will make your commute much more enjoyable and less stressful."

2) "You don't need to spend a lot on your bike, but don't get one from the toy aisle. Many bike shops sell inexpensive used bikes that have been tuned up and repaired. These are usually a good deal."

3) "Comfort is king. Make sure your bike is adjusted properly, and wear bike shorts (even if they're under normal clothes) if you have a longer commute. It makes all the difference in the world."

Anything else you would like to add?

"Get out and bike your drive! You just might like it! "

See Noah's world class blog on Bike Commuting

Peace, love, and bicycles

Traveling by bike is an adventure, whether you are going on a trip across America or to the store. I went to the store, in the rain. A short but wet trip. Spring is here, I can smell it in the air. Go ride your bike, live, dream, enjoy life.
Peace!
Bill

VW Kombi turns 60 years old!!!

Happy 60th birthday to the VW Kombi!

VW Kombi turns 60 years old!!!

Happy 60th birthday to the VW Kombi!

Imagine

last snow???

I woke up to snow! Yesterday it was 60f and today I have to trudge in the white stuff, sure it is beatiful, but I am ready for the warmth of Spring. People were gawking at me walking along in the snow with my treking poles. Of course,  it could have been the fact I had shorts on, but it was 30f, low wind, so shorts wore well.

I am feeling the pull of the mountains, either the Rockies or the Sierra's, makes no difference I have hiked them both. I took an Outward Bound trip, have you ever done that? I great organization! I did 22 days in the Sierra Nevada at Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park for hiking, alpine mountaineering, and rock climbing.

I hope you are walking and biking everywhere you go!
Peace!


PS Let me know if you like the logo!

Bill

Report: Next generation Volkswagen Beetle coming next year!!

3rd verse, same as the first. Not entirely, of course, but when the subject is the Volkswagen New Beetle, the looks of the car are largely a foregone conclusion. Just like the current New Beetle evokes the original Type 1 with its roundy-round fat-fenderedness, the next version, expected to go on sale in May 2011, will continue paying homage to the classic form. The outward differences will be a less-arched roofline that's more like the Ragster concept, and reportedly more surface detailing to break up the current car's vast expanses of featureless sheetmetal.

The new roofline and a stretch in wheelbase, plus a bump in width, will allow more logical interior packaging. Underneath all the retro, the next Beetle will again be running hardware shared with the Jetta. The UK's Autocar reports that its sources indicate the Beetle's dynamics will improve, with the ride becoming more supple. The familiar strut front suspension and beam rear axle layout will return, though a multi-link rear suspension will go into top-zoot models for sportier reflexes. Powertrain combinations in North America will likely be only two or three choices, possibly a 2.0T at the top, a TDI for the economy conscious, and the Jetta's 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder standard otherwise. A hybrid powertrain may also be in the works.

While the concept of a "new" Beetle conjures visions of more of the same, Autocar's rendering looks fresh, and even within the constraints of a 70-year-old design brief, there's room for new expression.

[Source: Autocar - Rendering: Autocar] by Dan Roth on Mar 19th 2010 at 10:29AM

Report: Next generation Volkswagen Beetle coming next year!!

3rd verse, same as the first. Not entirely, of course, but when the subject is the Volkswagen New Beetle, the looks of the car are largely a foregone conclusion. Just like the current New Beetle evokes the original Type 1 with its roundy-round fat-fenderedness, the next version, expected to go on sale in May 2011, will continue paying homage to the classic form. The outward differences will be a less-arched roofline that's more like the Ragster concept, and reportedly more surface detailing to break up the current car's vast expanses of featureless sheetmetal.

The new roofline and a stretch in wheelbase, plus a bump in width, will allow more logical interior packaging. Underneath all the retro, the next Beetle will again be running hardware shared with the Jetta. The UK's Autocar reports that its sources indicate the Beetle's dynamics will improve, with the ride becoming more supple. The familiar strut front suspension and beam rear axle layout will return, though a multi-link rear suspension will go into top-zoot models for sportier reflexes. Powertrain combinations in North America will likely be only two or three choices, possibly a 2.0T at the top, a TDI for the economy conscious, and the Jetta's 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder standard otherwise. A hybrid powertrain may also be in the works.

While the concept of a "new" Beetle conjures visions of more of the same, Autocar's rendering looks fresh, and even within the constraints of a 70-year-old design brief, there's room for new expression.

[Source: Autocar - Rendering: Autocar] by Dan Roth on Mar 19th 2010 at 10:29AM

why do we put up with it?

questions to car owners?


We know that auto CO2 is a major contributor to global warming and is poisoning our planet-so why are we allowing the car companies to keep building CO2 producing autos when they have the technology to have zero emission cars/autos?

Saving Money, One Car Accessory At A Time

I feel like MacGyver today and end world hunger and save the world. Okay, maybe not the world, maybe I’ll just work on my car (and also write some motor guide articles here on my blog). This beauty has been with me for quite a long time and with maintenance expense kicking in, maybe I need to be more resourceful – I believe there’s nothing a few duct tape and cloth can’t do. How hard can it be, I’ve been to art class, and I was able to turn my old pants to a bag - swell, isn’t?

DIY accessories are next on my to-do list. They’re car accessories – I can make them as cute, and I don’t have to study computer programs to make ‘em.

Here are a few tips that can save you a few bucks.

Here’s an easy one – air fresheners.

• Using a lightweight cardboard, cut a small piece into your desired shape.

• Soak the cardboard in a mixture of scented oil and water. You may choose any scent you want – maybe the one you’re used to buying at the store for that familiar scent.

• Punch a small hole at one tip and put a string through it.

• Tie or hang the other end of the string to your rear-view mirror. Because of the mixture of oil and water, the scent can last for a number of days.

Having kids and messy adults as passengers is anything but nice – and the dirt and different smells that are left behind are not always pleasant. If you can’t keep them out of the car, have a small wastebasket instead to keep their stuff out of the car.

• Get a plain clean can with at least 8 inches in diameter and cover the entire can in plain colored paper, safest would be black as background.

• To add color and design, put artsy sticker designs (nothing sexual or pornographic if you have kids hitching for a ride).

• Put it in the car for passengers to place small garbage.

• Empty the garbage can daily (or hourly – really depending on your passengers and the type of trash they bring in the car).

To make your car look organized (making your life organized is a different thing), make the following:

• Get a sturdy box – one that’ll fit your CDs or mobile phone.

• Cover the box with plain or decorative paper of your liking. (Maybe a photo of Tom Cruise would do, but, nah… some things just get old.)

• Decorative marbles placed at the bottom of the box can keep the box from rolling around inside your car.

• Place your iPod or CDs inside the box so they won’t be all over the place.

• If you’re worried about the marbles being harsh to your iPod, you can place a small cloth on top of the marbles to protect your techie thingamajig from the marbles.

I’m sure having these auto accessories, and me making them will give my car an updated look. Save for the usual overheating, I’m still keeping this car.

As easy as art class in grade school, right? Damn, I should really get a new car.

Past (part one)

So why did I start to work in the circus?
Because I fell in love with it!

My grandparents took me to watch my first ever circus show, back home in Hungary.
I was 2 years old.
Apparently I was sitting there, like a statue, with no reactions, so they tought that I did not like it.

So the next time, when they asked me if I want to go again, I surprised them with my answer : YES!



So that's how it started.My love with the circus.



First I didn't think that I want to be on stage, I just loved the atmosphere, so I wanted to be involved in it.

I started to do little circus shows with my sister and some friends to my family and also sometimes to random people.
I spent my summer vacations on the country side, close to the Serbian border in Hungary with my grandparents and my sister.So we were hanging out with the neighbour kids and we played with them.

When I became 10, my parents asked me if I am interested in to apply for the Budapest Circus School.
I was like "Yeah, whatever ... I am not good enough ... I can try, but I am sure it's hopeless!"

In 1995. I applied.
I passed the audition and they took me.

I spent 9 years there.

The first four years I studied the basics:
juggling,balancing,classical balett,mime,aerial things,floor acrobatics.
I went to the primary school in the morning, and then to the circus school at night.
Even if the teachers knew that I am studying in two school at the same time, and the try to give me less homework, I was still super busy and most of the time pretty tired, too.


After 4 years we had to specialize for an act.
They put me into an inline skating group with 2 other boys and 2 other girls.
2 of us were the flyers, the other 3 were the porters.

At that time I was studying in the Budapest Balett School's High School part during the afternoon, because my circus classes were in the morning.
And I mean really in the morning!
My first class stated at 7:45am and I finished there around 1:30pm, than running to the high school and study there until 6 or 7pm.

(Just like the normal school, the circus school is also from monday to friday, the weekend is free ... if you don't have gigs to do!)

After 3 years we had some difficulties.
For example I grew a lot,but stayed skinny, so I wasn't a good flyer "material" anymore.
Plus we had some conflicts among each other, so 2 of us left the group and got replaced by 2 other guys.
(The skating group split up not long after graduation).


While I was still in that group we did a second number, group juggling (4 of us).
We used clubs, hats and balls.



After I left the group I had a really hard time for few months.
I was mostly working out and thinking of a new act.
Then one of my teachers had an idea, that I should use my flexibility (what I did not loose during the 3 years of skating, thankfully!!!) and she started to work with me on an aerial silk act (tissue).
It happened in 2002., during April I believe.


In the last few months I started to work with a girl, and we created a duo act, but when I came back to finish school after the summer break, she decided (because of her previous injuries) that she is stopping, and won't work in circus anymore.
So as of September 2003. I started to work on my solo aerial silk number.

One of my first gig was in the Hungarian TV.
I remember it was a good experience, but they cut my 6 minute long act into 2 minutes.
Grrr ... :)

The 2003/2004. school year was my last in the circus school.
I was mostly just practicing my number there, doing a lot of gigs and writing my diploma.
(My diploma work was about aerial silk.
This circus diploma is not as strong as any other diplomas, of course ... but still!It's super nice to have it, and it means something in the circus world.)



In January 2004. I participated in a show "Hungarian Gala", what was part of the 5th International Circus Festival in Budapest.
I was NOT part of the contest!
I was part of this special "all Hungarian artist" show, what is basicly mostly for the managers,casting and circus directors to see and buy acts.
That's where one of the Cirque Du Soleil talent scouts spotted me.

Few weeks after, in February I went for an audition for Cirque in my circus school.
It took a full day.

At the end of the day they told me that I can apply to the Montreal Circus School if I want to.
That doesn't mean, that after finishing there I would go immediately to a Cirque show, but I would have better chances.
They also said, that they will put me into their database, so they will know about me, and they might gonna call me in 2 days, 2 weeks, 2 years ... or never!

I decided, that because I already studied 9 years, I should earn some money and took advantage of all my school years.

I got a job in the Capital Circus of Budapest, in the circus building.
It was a 5 months long summer show.

Then I had gigs and I did my winter season 2004/2005. in a cabaret theater, the Moulin Rouge Budapest.
(It was cool.
I had 3-4 shows a week.
The show started at 11pm, and I was in the second half!
At the end of it, I became a zombie.)

I did some other gigs, like working in discoteques, schools, art galleries, dance theaters, different events.

In 2005. I worked in a family circus, in South of England for 8 months.
I did my silk act and for the second half of the season I did my hula hoop act (what I studied,practiced and created on my own.)

Then other special events.
And in March 2006. I got the call, that I got the job in "VAREKAI" (2 years after the audition) !!! ...

Kansas City Tweed Ride April 3rd, Loose Park!

Please tell all your friends!

http://www.kctweedindeed.wordpress.com/

Where and when?

One of the most frequently asked question is:

-Where does to tour ("VAREKAI") go next?

-Honestly : I have no idea.

I only know the cities for the next calendar year, when I sign the contract.
So let's say I knew the cities for 2010. since the summer of 2009.
But since that almost everything has changed compaired to the names and the order of the cities in my contract.
That's the reason why they put it under the tour plan, that everything is subject to change.
And since I am on tour they really took advantage of that one little sentense.

Just to give you an example:
In my first contract we supposed to go to Hong Kong at the end of the Asia-Pacific tour, then they changed it toTaiwan, but finally we ended up starting our European tour earlier and we performed in Antwerp.
So nothing is really unpredictable!
Believe me!

I only know the cities until October 2010., but those are already on the official site of Cirque.
I don't know anything more, than that.




There is another big question, what I hate to answer, because I don't really have an answer for it, yet:

-When do you think you gonna leave "VAREKAI" and what are you planning to do after?

-I don't know how long will I perform in this show.
I can't tell.
There are a lot of things what my future depend on.
And what will I do?
God knows!
One day I wake up and I feel that I could do this for couple more years, some other times I am thinking that I would like to try myself in an other Cirque or non-Cirque show (so many nice work places to go).
And I also have days, when I really miss the "normal" life and I think I could study or do something completly different, becasue I already achieved (almost) everything in the circus world (I am working in the best place, playing the lead, won an award) what I wanted.
So I don't even know what do I want to do, and when I want it!

:)

The award

So this is the fantastic award what I received today.
Actually (as I wrote it earlier) my family took the award for me, because I was (and I am still) performing in Manchester.

The ceremony took place in the Budapest State Circus, during intermission.
I got this beautiful art work, a statue (very heavy according to my mum and sis), and some money with it.
Plus this wonderful title!!!
I am super happy and very-very touched!

Like what else can I ask for more?
I am only 25,
doing a solo act and playing the lead character in one of the Cirque shows,
I got an award,
I have an amazingly supportive and loving family, including my amazing partner (who I love the most!),
my super friends (who are super entertaining, and very-very supportive, kind-hearted people),
I can see great things all around the world ...

So I guess I am super lucky!
And happy!!!

And probably at this moment the happiest guy on the Earth!!!

8000 visitors!!!

Thanks to everyone that visited this blog! We have now officially had over 8000 visitors and we've only been up and running since April 2009, that's only 11 months!

8000 visitors!!!

Thanks to everyone that visited this blog! We have now officially had over 8000 visitors and we've only been up and running since April 2009, that's only 11 months!

friday fun-10 reasons to ride a bike for transport?

some fun from friends,



but we never got to 10 ...maybe YOU can add more.


carfreeAmerican asks: top ten reasons to ride a bike for transportation: 1. ?
(our FaceBook page)


Ben says :
It's a great way to stay in shape!
Yesterday at 12:40pm ·

Virgilio patriotically says:
FREEDOM!!!!!
Yesterday at 12:42pm ·

Ben adhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jnot3NIBQfU&NR=1
Yesterday at 12:46pm ·

Noah of KC Bike Commuting says:
Free parking pretty much anywhere!
Yesterday at 1:11pm ·










Randy Rasa of Kansas Cyclist can come up with three!
1. Fun 2. Frugal 3. Fitness
Yesterday at 1:39pm ·


F.C. Watts has the most insightful:
Everbody looks sexier on a bike!
Yesterday







Think of any others, then let those creative juices flow and add more!


















Have a happy friday and peace !

morning commute: 40f, windy, light sprinkles

A good ride, sick of this cold stuff, longing for the Spring to get here! Time change this weekend!
peace

What's with red cars?

More often than not, you’d see that in movies or in TV shows, the ‘cool’ lead actor or lead actress drives a red car. Whether it’s a convertible or dad’s old truck, it has to be red – and whatever shade of red. Hollywood indeed knows its stuff. Red is attributed to so many things, and well, mostly good things at that.

For starters, the color red is used to symbolize power. When people wear red ties in business and when people walk on red carpets, it symbolizes that they are powerful and important (and fashionable too, to pull it out). Red drapes, red linens – all suggests that the event or the person holding the event is a powerful personality.

Famous cars are mostly known for its red color – the Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and the most well-known of them all, the red Ferrari car. When car racing began, countries were given the designated official color, and for Italy, the color red was assigned. Until now, Ferrari retained their famous red cars. And the black hue horse on the logo? That’s power and speed – the ultimate in cars.

To be more scientific about it, the color red is a stimulant color and studies indicate that the color can increase blood pressure. Thus, a person who is angry or is feeling intense emotions tend to turn ‘red’ – blood rises causing the cheeks to turn noticeable red in color.

If not cars, red is used in different cultures to denote goodness. In Chinese culture, the color symbolizes wealth, good luck, good health and prosperity. During Chinese New Year, no other prominent color can be seen apart from red. During Christmas, red is combined with other colors to signify a joyous occasion. Even in birthdays or in most celebrations, the color red is used to show energy and vibrancy.

If you see red on the road, you will stop. Literally. The color red is also used to denote emergency and warnings (one analogy is because fire is also red in color). It is a color that will really demand your attention that’s why stoplights use the color red to signal stops.

A specific color makes all the difference. While a black car is sometimes not chosen by some because it tends to be ‘unseen’ during evenings, or the color white as it is often associated to be ceremoniously used during weddings, the color red is chosen by some car owners to signify power.

But whether scientifically explained or a part of human culture, the color red is simply appealing and attractive. And in romance (and seduction for that matter), the color red is often used. Simply, the color red in almost anything is given a second look and is a color that is ‘taken seriously’ unlike, well, pink.

Some say that a red car doesn’t get pulled-over. Well, we’re not sure if all red cars don’t get pulled-over but a certain red and white car called Mach 5, well, that we believe.

Thinking of the car color of your next ride? Make it a red hot car.

I hope you have fun reading this another motor guide article of mine.  See you!

new logo-what do you think?

Logo design from Jeanne Barnhill

I think she has captured what it means to be carfree and an American. I am interested in your thoughts. The carfreeAmerican project is about a the promotion of living carfree or carlite in America.

Why the emphasis on America? Mostly because cars and America are synonomous. I think carfreeAmerican are a oxymoron---no not moron.

Also there is so much hooey that the Europeans somehow are smarter than we Americans are when it comes to the carfree/ carlite lifestyle. Well sure in someplaces they maybe ahead, but I am confident we Americans can and will take up the benefits of the being carfreeAmericans.

Why do I put the word carfreeAmerican all together? I am breaking all sorts of rules I know, but that is why, I want it to look different, special, cool, and groovy. To me carfreeAmerican is one word and being carfree or carlite we can change the world by having ; healthier lifestyle, cleaner environment, and more fun. You are a carfreeAmerican!

So, let me know what you think of the logo, the movement, the project. We are in this together and a work in progress. I tend to ramble.

Peace!

Bill Poindexter, carfreeAmerican

carfreeAmerican Product Review-Arkel Tail Rider

Tail Rider from Arkel.
After five years and more than 35, 000 miles of commuting and micro adventuring, the Tail Rider is my choice for a trunk bag.

From Arkels site, "In a nutshell: People sure are vocal about what they want - and it suits us just fine! Arkel has designed what might be the sleekest trunk bag available. A single glance shows how different it is: sleek, uncluttered and aerodynamic. The Tail Rider is fully insulated, has an immense opening, many internal pockets and a divider to keep the content from shifting around. Waterproof zippers keep a sudden rain outside, but for longer rides the Tail Rider has an integrated rain cover. That's sweet! A built-in expansion bellow will stretch for more carrying capacity when needed. Finally wrap it all with lots of safety features and the package is the best you can wish for short or long rides alike!"

I love the Tail Rider, I have been commuting now for 9 years and tried different trunk bags, but none had the durability, functionality, nor the room of the Tail Rider. I cannot say anything bad about it. The color has faded on it over the years, but I see that as a badge of honor rather than a negative. Arkel's customer service is excellent too, over the years I had questions about the Tail Rider and other products and I always received a quick responses and great answers to my questions.

Being a carfreeAmerican and bicycle commuter I have to have a product I can rely on 100% of the time. Arkel is that company, the Tail Rider is that product. Thank you Arkel!

Arkel

Tail Rider

$108.95 US

Two colors: Red and Black