ZenCog

Mermaid

2010-09-17T06:54:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you get the opportunity to know someone for a while, and can try to place that person's personality in the bike. In this case, My neighbor Meredith is in Veterenary School in G-Ville. I have known her family for 12 years and remember when she was in Mayport Middle School and Fletcher High.

Her birthday is coming up, and she said "Clark, I really want one of those ZenCog's. Mom and Dad said I could get one." I asked her what she had in mind. Meredith said "Seafoam green and classic looking, but not too bold, and bullhorn handlebars like Ashley's." She had seen Ashley's bike in the garage.

I went to our powder coater and he had the perfect color. The bike will be ready next week, but I felt the need to post the first picture. I named her "Mermaid", since the color looks like the sea, and all through High School Meredith would get picked up at 5 a.m. so she could go to swim team practice. Also her dad Bruce probably has 20 surfboards. They are always in the sea. So I am bringing the sea to the streets on this one.

She is finished!

Gunnar Sport - Not Just Fixies

2010-06-13T07:24:00.002-04:00

I am finally able to build exactly what I want. I have had two used Gunnar mountain bikes, but this is the first time I have had one made just for me. Gunner hand builds frames in the USA one at a time. You order it and they start, I even got the special color of the month, Bamboo. If you have gotten to the top of the line Carbon Fiber bike, and ready to go to the next level, we have two great choices at ZenCog, Gunnar or Waterford custom frames. After all, Carbon Fiber is simply trying to emulate the feel of steel. Check out the Gunnar in progress this week while I am away on vacation.

Flashdance for a Bike - Grand Opening Party

2010-03-17T06:34:00.007-04:00

We are so stoked to be carrying 3G beach cruisers that we want to give 2 away at our grand opening party April 11. But you have to work for it. The theme 1980's -- so dress appropriately. Big hair, tube socks, torn jeans. MTV started in the 80's and most of you were in diapers, if not still an unborn egg in your mama. I was alive and well and remember the 80's unlike the 70's - which were a blur.

I most remember Jennifer Beals in Flashdance. So much of that movie exemplifies the change in the air, and a girl welding metal was so great. The dancing wasn't bad either, and she rode a bike to work...how awesome!

Okay, here's the deal. From now till the party, I will be digging up 1980's pictures and videos to give you guys some dress ideas and moves. I will wear what I have worn every decade, jeans, chuck taylors, and tee shirts....but then again, I am not in the contest. Besides, Garf and I can't dance....well at least I can't....so we can't win. We will put a chair and opened bicycle boxes in the parking area in front of the shop. It is a break dance and flashdance contest.

Guys can dance with the chair, girls can break dance, we are non-judgemental nor discriminatory...but hey - no lap dances...this is a family shop. If you dance with the chair - there is a chance you could get hit with a bucket of water, so dress accordingly. One babe and one dude wins a bike. And you trans guys - your attire will decide your gender, you can't compete for both prizes.

We will take videos of each contestant...put it up on YouTube, and the winner will be chosen by most thumbs up on FaceBook. So in order for you to win, your friends and fans must be a ZenCog fan to vote. That means you can totally suck at dancing, but if you have lots of friends to vote you in - you can win! I am such a shameless promoter...but I can be because we are giving 2 awesome bikes away for summer.

The winners pick the 3G Venice of his/her choice from the 3G website. We are springing for the Venice, if you find another 3G bike you prefer, you can pay for the upgrade. As always at ZenCog, you get what you want! You just have to pay! Stay tuned ya'll, I promise I will get 80's obnoxious for the next 3 weeks.

Almost forgot...live DJ...cokes...beer...and working on Turkey Bubba Burgers...and of course PEANUTS. ZenCog gives new meaning to the term "peanut gallery."

ZenCog Tribe

2010-02-25T05:58:00.003-05:00

Okay Ya'll, we are opened four weeks and Garf pointed out that we have already processed 100 invoices, that is just freakin' awesome. Three months ago, there were just a handful of people that knew about ZenCog (it was just my mini-warehouse man cave), and we are becoming a tribe. I say tribe because folks are not only buying - or not, they are hangin' out, sharing stories and oogling over Internet bike stuff - fondly referred to as "bike porn." you won't catch a disease from looking at this stuff, but you may get addicted.

Now is the coolest part - you are creating us. We had a pre-conceived notion that we would do what no other shop has, and that is what is happening - not selling you what we want, but selling you what you want. And what you want is incredible! Every day we get a few bikes in, really old crap. Bikes that people forgot about. But there is something you love about it - the unique fenders, or saddle or just the frame itself.

I think we are more like a hair dresser, than a bike shop. I remember watching Kat the other day. She comes in while I gave Garf a break. She and Sandy play some Ms. PacMan, then go over to the Internet while waiting on Garf. He returns and I say he has a customer waiting. He goes over to Kat and Sandy then says, "what are we going to do today?" They search the Internet looking at bike stuff.

The order is placed and here we are three days later, her old mixtie bike has its first makeover. She likes the top tube bend so she can wear skirts and heels. Someday Kat wants to paint the frame, and I would like to see a newer crankset. But this was the first stage, conversion to a single speed with Green wheels and chain. We hope she likes her, I don't believe Kat has seen it yet.

Garf said a seventy year old guy came in and wants to convert an old bike to a fixie. This is not a trend, it is a revolution to the big name $3,000 bikes. People want some history in their bike, they want to recycle, they want something cool and unique and they want it simple. Will we get a bunch of service fixing gears, or hydraulic brakes, or the like -- maybe not, but we will give you what no other bike store in town wants to - your own bike identity, created by you! You become a member of the ZenCog Tribe!

Garf's Timeless Riverside Ride

2010-02-20T14:39:00.006-05:00

As I reflect on all the events of the past few weeks in my drama filled, spicy, busy life, I realize again that all things happen for a reason. My life is filled with excitement and there is never a dull moment. I wouldn’t change it for any amount of money. For the first time since I opened our little bike shop on Stockton Street I finally rode my bike to work.

On the way I stopped by Trouvez 2730 Park Street 904-381-0535. I chatted with Audra Pruitt one of the owners. They have just opened. She is always encouraging and knows how to tackle life. The journey continues, and I pedal on down the familiar roads in my beautiful neighbor hood. Today I feel is the start of great cycling weather. I suggest riding today it is a beautiful day in north Florida.

I stopped by Gilmore Street where RADO (Riverside Avondale Development Organization) hosted a neighbor hood cleanup. Melody is an outstanding person and she is organizing events to clean up our hood. I picked up trash before pedaling down to my own little slice of dream pie ZenCog Bicycle Company. At the end of the journey I realize that Life is full of speed bumps and nothing always goes as planned.

Oh yes I was greeted by Leonard, one of the Riverside legends, and had the same conversation I have with him everyday about him wanting to buy a bicycle with a back rack, a basket for his radio, and a lock with two keys for his key ring. He wants to pay me with 25 fifty dollar bills. I hope this sale goes through. You gotta love Riverside!

Written by Garfield Cooper (The Garf)

Pre-Opening Party

2010-01-26T05:47:00.003-05:00

The party was a phenomenal success. We had people from all walks and rides of life. There were young and old. Roadie purists and fixie lovers. We had mountain bikers on the way back from the 50 mile muddy Ididaride, and long haul trekkers. We even had local residents and I suspect one or two homeless taking advantage of the free food. They were executives, doctors, nurses, and artists, musicians, and students. But you know what - I had no idea who was who, because they did not where what they did on their sleeve. And they were all interacting with each other.

Anybody that knows me well knows that I pursue diversity and feel that all people are equal, whether a doctor, or the homeless person they serve in the clinic. And to see this diverse group interacting, having fun, sharing stories at ZenCog, christens the store with an aura that no amount of money can buy.

As we embark on this experiment of web/brick and mortar retail space I need to thank the people who helped make this pre-opening event a phenom.

First my wife Peggy, who has encouraged me to seek my dreams and has been by my side through success, failure, and stupid mistakes over thirty years. Also my kids, Maddie and her friends Bryce, Alison, and Sara who helped serve burgers, put smelly sneakers on the fence, and all around assisted the party. Maddie will be doing an awesome video of the day, which we will post on YouTube once edited and set to music. And Ashley, my older daughter who is at FSU and provided the art photos on the walls. Anyone who knows me, knows my family always comes first.

Next we would like to thank all who attended in person and spirit, without you we would not have a chance to survive. In six weeks since starting our interaction on Facebook we have nearly 300 fans. That is freakin' incredible. It gives us motivation to take this plunge of faith. Our future is in your hands.

And a special thanks to Brandon who rode from G-ville on his hand made piece of art. Sheila, who brought chips and Salsa in the nick of time. Kim, who got the ice. Bea, who ran for the plates and knife to cut the cake. Matt from Burro Bags, who ran to get some bags for us to display. Bakery Moderne for making the best cake I have ever eaten, and the homeless bearded lady for finishing it off. Big Joe from Zombie Bikes who took the time to jam with the old man. Finally, Craig our landlord who let us sign the lease over a pole dancing school - sorry guys.

BUBBA BURGERS - were incredible. Thanks to Andy and Pat, who made it all happen. In fact Andy asked me yesterday when we were doing the Grand Opening Party so they can get it on the schedule. Yes - we will do this again in March, and we will have more Turkey Burgers. Those who got one of the six Turkey Burgers were the first people outside of corporate to taste them, They will be in stores soon.

Now a bit about who we are. I am Clark and I work for Bubba Burger, that is how I was able to make that connection. My bosses are cyclists, as is Andy, and they are supportive of my side business. I bribed them with parts at cost. I am really the bass player in life. I build the bottom and try to keep the rhythm, but I am not the rock star - that is Garf and Steve.

My partners are incredible at what they do - they are the shop. Garf is the lead singer, he also plays drums. He is the front man and the face you will see when you come into the shop. Garf is patient and laid back, he will make sure you get what you want - not what we want to sell you. And on lead guitar - Steve. He is the most awesome bike mechanic in Jax. When other mechanics fail getting that bottom bracket out, they send their customer to Steve. For those that know him - he can be an opinionated ornery SOB - but that is why we love him. Me, on Bass, I will be here on the web early in the morning, building our catalogue of components and keeping you guys informed on the web pages, FB, blog and gallery.

Once again - thanks to ya'll we are here, and hopefully through your support will be here next year too.

Brandon's Pilgrimage

2010-01-20T05:06:00.003-05:00

I have yet to meet Brandon Kelley. We have spoken a few times on the phone and traded some Facebook messages. Brandon is a freebird, free of material possessions, no car, no cell phone. But Brandon is a wealthy man. Not in material ways, but in passion and freedom.

He is an apprentice frame builder in Gainesville and has a love for steal framed bicycles and White Industries components. You can see him above meticulously working on a lug. He tells me a hand built frame could take as long as a month. In an era when most frames are built by robots in Taiwan, he is learning to keep the art of custom frame building alive.

After giving up on trying to cop a ride to Jax for the party, he called me yesterday and said he is riding to Jax on his bike Friday all the way from Gainesville a mere 70 miles - I assume the single speed mountain variety probably running 32x16. Wow. When we started the shop and the idea for the pre-opening party, I never expected someone to want to be there so much, I am truly humbled and excited by this gesture.

We are not a big corporation. We are not heavily stocked with bikes and accessories. We are not judgemental of the bike people ride, whether bought from Wal-mart or another bike shop. I applaud you for riding for fun, transportation, exercise, social benefit, or just like us - to feed the addiction. We are a community, and want to be your friend. We are ZenCog, and yes - we are Art in Motion.

Good luck with your pilgrimage Brandon! Be safe! We can't wait to meet you!

I Know Sheldon - Do You!

2010-01-17T05:28:00.007-05:00

I have only really been seriously into bikes for three years, to me that's a short time, but if your young, that's like forever. Anyway I immersed myself and my teacher of how to build, fix, and acquire was Sheldon Brown. I never actually met this freak, but did get an email from him shortly before he died at 64 when I inquired about a Brooks saddle, I went for the B-17 Special, but was thinking about a springer Flyer.

The cool thing about Sheldon is that he spent years putting his knowledge on the web to share forever, or until someone forgets to pay the web hosting bill. If you need guidance, he should be your first line of defense 24/7. Then after you mess up your bike, bring it to us to fix (for a fee of course).

Sheldon was also the master of gear ratios. This is especially important for fixed and single speed riders, you should check out his calculator when building or deciding on a good gear ratio. Of course riding is ultimately your best guide.

ZenCog is not about keeping the working parts of your bike a mystery. Some things you may be able to do yourself. Other things you may need us to do in the shop. If you want to understand how it works, make an appointment to watch the mechanic. We want to empower you and have you come back not just to spend your cash, but to learn - we want to touch your life in some way.

The next time you are with bike buddies sharing a pitcher or keg, or vat - make a toast to Sheldon.

ZenCog is an Attitude

2010-01-15T06:33:00.004-05:00

I sat with a friend of mine (now a business partner) at Moon River Pizza about three months back. We were talking about bikes and the bike shops here in Jax. We described our dream shop. It would be small, sell steel bikes, probably showcase Surly. Then we discussed the ZenCog bikes I was building in a warehouse. He said, "Clark - ZenCog is more than your bike."

"Yeah, its a brand." I responded. I work for a company that has an awesome brand.

He shook his head. "Clark you don't get it. ZenCog is an attitude."

He was right. And I will tell you what the attitude is.

I grew up in the 60's and 70's. It freaks me out how many young people wish they lived back then. I did. Sometimes I think they romanticize it more than we do. It was a tumultuous time. I was a teen when Vietnam was happening. I was scared. I never thought I would see the age of 20, that's why I am proud to be a geezer, I beat the odds.

Yeah there are wars now, but there is no draft -- yet. Anyway we wanted to change the world. We didn't want to wear suits, we wanted to be in jeans and sneakers, or sandals. We desperately wanted to be different than our parents. We wanted to be diverse. We wanted women to have rights as well as minorities. Back then -- they really didn't.

Then came the 80's and Izod an we all became Yuppies. The attitude of individuality was over and replaced with greed and the desire to make lots of money. You know the rest of the story.

Three years ago I got my first road bike. And have been riding ever since. I was told I need to ride clipless - which I do sometimes. I was told I need to wear Jerseys and Spandex shorts - which I do sometimes. I was told I couldn't have a kickstand - which I balked at first putting one on my road and mountain bike. Drew said he and the Cannondale rep had a good laugh. Kickstands are off my bikes now because I think it takes away from the beauty of the bike, but that's just me.

I didn't like being told what I could- and could not do with my bike. Then I built the first ZenCog. A quality steel frame single speed with a coaster brake. You think that would be sold in the other shops in Jax? Heck no. It makes me unique. It's about what is inside me, and what I like - not what other people tell me I should like.

ZenCog represents an attitude. In the words of the crooner Frank Sinatra (I never cared for his music, but live and let live) "I gotta be me."

And you gotta be you! That my friend is what ZenCog is about.

We Don't Play Games

2010-01-13T05:53:00.006-05:00

Well actually we do. Are you up for some old school games? Come in and play on our Nintendo 64 1990's style or Ms. Pac-man from the 1980's. Yeah that one might be older than you are. In fact you may have been conceived after a night of your parents hangin' in a smoke filled restaurant playing this game. (That's right in the olden days people smoked friggin everywhere.)

We are about recycling and re-using. I hate to use the term "green" because it is so over done, in fact when we print your big dang receipt on a full page of 8-1/2x11 paper, you'll say these guys aren't green, but there will be cool stuff on the back, and when you're done, in the recycle bin. The real green people recycle and re-use.

We also like retro, side by side with contemporary. Our computers are new, and games are old. I'm a geezer and being recycled here. Things go around and around. I wore Converse in the 70's. They have gone in and out of style at least five times since.

It is the same with steel frame bikes. They have been around since long before aluminum and carbon fiber, which are also excellent materials. You can get aluminum and carbon fiber at every other bike shop in Jax, but they ignore the retro style of a beautiful lugged steel bike. They have been around for over a hundred years, and can easily be re-used and re-incarnated with new components and paint - or powdercoat.

Bring us your old bike that you love and we will bring her back to life. And while your dropping her off, play a game of Pac-man and remember the old days, or "imagine" the old days of your parents.

Dancing in a Dream

2010-01-12T05:05:00.016-05:00

Have you ever really been conscience that you were in someone
else's dream? Like you go to sleep and dream and there is your buddy. Is he having the same dream at the same time? One will never know...but I can tell you right now, there are three guys that have dreams, and they are all different.

For some stupid reason, maybe like Richard Dreyfus building a mountain in his living room with dirt and trees in "Close Encounters..." I have this overwhelming urge to put a fifty foot roll of chain ling on the walls of the store. First to have folks lace sneakers to it, then to showcase samples of bike junk like wheels, handlebars, cranks, and messenger bags.

It's kind of my artistic outlet, as bizarre as that sounds. One partner wants traditional slat walls, the other focused on his service center needs (I did wheel and deal him his stainless steel bench). But me -- I just want my chain link.

Here is the text with my service partner last night while he was at Lowes:

Me: Chain link fence. They sell 50 foot rolls for like $57 can you pick roll up? Do you have van?
Him: 4 feet tall?
Me: Ya
Him: Ugly like sh**. Wasted money (Of course he didn't use asterisk, there are some minors reading this.)
Me: Just get please

When I arrived at the store, there was the roll laying on the floor.

"Thanks for getting the fence," I said.
"Your welcome, what are you doing with it?" he asks with Hungarian accent.
"I have some ideas. I'll work on it. It's my dream," I replied.
"Okay, if it's your dream, " he says shaking his head. I know he was thinking "crazy old man."

I went to the kitchen in the back of the store and saw an old refrigerator next to the little one I brought. "You didn't," I said, looking at my other partner.

"It's gonna be my keg-orator, I've always wanted one -- it's my dream." he replied.

"Okay," I responded, shaking my head.

Then we all agreed. This is more than a business, it's a dream for the three misfits - each one different. Of course we want to succeed financially, but this is so much more than about money, it is about dreams, and every one of you is part of this dream. It is also my dream to be a writer, and if you are reading this, I am fulfilling another dream.

My wife taught me to dream. When we were newly married 30 years ago and I was still in college, she said she wanted us to buy a house. Keep in mind interest rates were 12%-15%, and we were poor. I said "we will never be able to afford a house." She said, "don't take my dreams away, if I can't dream, why live?" That day I learned to dream, and several houses later, we live in our dream home.

Dreams do come true, just sometimes they have to change a bit to work....never stop dreaming!

Pre-Opening Party January 24 1-4pm or Whenever

2010-01-11T07:03:00.003-05:00

I historically have horrible parties. Duds, fizzles, snore...That's why I had to add Garf to the invite list, and even celebrate his birthday! Garf knows friggin' everyone and he better spread the word!

Maybe it's cause I'm crazy, I have this bizarre idea to ask people to bring old ratty converse or bobo sneakers to tie to the chain link fence in the shop (P-U). In return you get a free ZenCog T-shirt. That may be why my parties stink, hmmm. I call this performance art, you may just call it "humor the old man."

Anyway Beer, Coke (the liquid kind), and peanuts in the shell. You saw right peanuts, we are going all out with tubs of 'em. Not bad for poor bike freaks! What you don't eat will be our main protein for the next six months.

Oh yea live acoustic jam session so bring your ax and join the fun!

The event will be filmed and loaded on YouTube, here's your chance to be famous.After the old man leaves for his bed time, Garf takes over till he drops and chases everyone out.

My partners will be exposed at the party! (Dirty minds -not like that - yuch!)

Polo stars show up after you get home from Savannah, I'll make sure there will be enough beer, peanuts and birthday cake to go around!

883 Stockton Street Take I-10 to Stockton, head south 4 blocks and on the left.

Touring Bikes

2010-01-07T07:05:00.006-05:00

Touring guys! Whether you start your journey from the East coast or finish it up here, we help you!

If you start from here, ship your bike to the store, we assemble it by the time you call me from the airport, we pick you up, show you where to buy 90 days of Ramen Noodle, and arm you with maps. Charter VAN takes you to the beach to dip your toe to the Atlantic. If you come from overseas, we build your chosen bike by the time you arrive, and entirely equip you and your steed.

Should you finish it here, we pick you up (after you dipped your toe to the Atlantic), and show you where you can get some awesome tabuli salad to cheer up your tummy after 90 days of Ramen Noodle, burrito and gas station ice cream. Take you to a hotel box and ship your bike home, and then drop you off the airport.

--authored by Steve - ZenCog Mechanic (can you hear the accent in his writing ?)

Bumble Bee Build

2009-07-02T05:39:00.009-04:00

The Bumble Bee is a commissioned bike built for Christopher in Chicago. He plans to use it for commuting in the windy city and requested 32c tires. He is planning to add a back fender to keep the road grime off his rear. There are three contact points on the frame where the fender can connect and plenty of clearance.

The bumble Bee began from this Selle Italia Nitrox saddle I had in inventory with yellow embroidering. It is perched on a used Ritchie single bolt seatpost.

I used a combination of alloy and carbon fiber headset spacers on this 59cm frame leaving the fork tube uncut.

I removed the labels from the Vuelta wheels.

The Suntour hub has sealed bearings.

I teetered back and forth between using yellow or black handlebar tape. Black Fizik tape won out. I have not used this tape before and although it feels real good to hold, when I slide my hands front to aft, the edges feel like they buzz under my fingers. I tried wrapping them in the other direction with the same result. The jury is out, but since they feel like a buzz, and this is a Bumble Bee, I think they will stay.

Fender mount braze on. The camera flash brought out every bit of shipping dust on this bike. Black shows everything.

Fender mounts are shown here on the horizontal track dropouts.

The front cockpit.

The 19t Histop coaster brake hub. The original 18t cog is on the bike. Paired with the Campy 53t chainring will provide nearly a 3x gear ratio, nirvana for some fixie riders. I had to part with the Campy to get Christopher close to a perfect 42c chainline.

The Campy Daytona 172.5 crank arms will provide good cornering clearance while maintaining a decent cadence.

Campy crank bolts.

Campy 53t Chainring

Fender mounts on the dusty frame.

I do not install any reflectors on ZenCogs. When possible I use reflector tires to illuminate the bike at night. The flash photo reveals the reflective strip on the IRC Urban Master. The Bumble Bee is almost ready! Pedals, chain, cleanup and boxing is all that is left.

Whitney Pink - Almost Done

2009-05-15T05:27:00.004-04:00

The new Miche bottom bracket is really clean and spins super easy. This high quality part is made in Italy like many of the parts on the Pink.

I used a vintage Campy record crankset on this bike.

The 175 mm arms may be a bit long for racing, but will be ideal for cruising, which is what the Pink is made for.

The spindle shows some wear, but that is the beauty of using vintage parts. This crank is re-incarnated.

I installed fatty Specialized Nimbus 38c tires to give a cushy ride and absorb the imperfections on Manhattan streets.

I usually remove the wheel labels, but since this bike is for a model, the branding will stay. These Vuelta wheels are designed in Italy, but made in Taiwan, like most wheels these days.

The Bianchi seatpost matches the anodized stem.

The new leather San Marco Rolls saddle is a classic.

The Whitney Pink is almost done.

Whitney Pink - Frontal Build

2009-05-12T06:24:00.005-04:00

The Whitney Pink started with matching the color to Whitney's favorite nail polish. The frame was powder coated by Powdertech in Orange Park.

The frame is the same ZenCog frame I use on all bikes with horizontal track dropouts.

I left the fork uncut since Whitney wants an upright position. This will be her City Cruiser.

The star nut and fork race was installed first.

Next came the FSA headset installation.

I found this cool anodized stem with stars.

Since I left the fork uncut, it required a lot of spacers. I mixed carbon fiber and alloy spacers to make the headset look like jewelry.

Stem meets fork.

I found this vintage cruiser handlebar built by Firestone. The chrome steel material is light and will absorb road conditions.

State of the art Ergon grips are used to make Whitney's ride comfortable.

The front end is complete.

Chill Peppa - Completion

2009-05-12T05:19:00.006-04:00

I added Ritchey Comp Handlebars from a dissected Redline Monocog 29er

The handlebars were finished of with Ergon grips. They are the most comfortable grips on the market.

I new high quality Miche track bottom bracket was used.

The Redline cranks from the Monocog were re-incarnated into the Chill Peppa. The chainring was increased from 32t to a 36t.

A sparkling green WTB saddle was installed on an unbranded Kalloy seatpost.

A used set of Globe Pedals were added.

Sun Rims and Michelin tires completed the build with a 1/8 inch generic chain.

To see the completed bike go to http://zencoggallery.blogspot.com/2009/05/chill-peppa.html.

Building the ZenCog Chill Peppa (Fork Install)

2009-04-24T04:55:00.014-04:00

The ZenCog begins with a frame made by Motobecane called the Jury. This frame comes from MaxWay, the same plant in Taiwan that produces the Surly Steamroller. ZenCog prebuilds are made from new old stock or reincarnated high quality components, and the new frame is a reincarnation of its own. Motobecane is a very old brand which originated in France and went bankrupt. The brand was re-introduced recently by a US based company. I am starting with a black 56cm frame. However if sold, the components of this build can be installed on any of the sizes shown on the ZenCog website.

The forks come uncut, so I took off almost two inches with a tried and true hacksaw.

The crown nut is installed with an old fashioned hammer and used starnut screw, which is then replaced with a new one.

I bought this piece of pipe at Kmart and use a crown race tool in tandem to set the crown race on the fork.

Park tools come in handy, and I used their headset press to install the FSA Orbit.

When I came to the stem, I reached into my supplies and came up with this Salsa from a mountain bike. The art progressed as I decided to make this bike a single speed road bike that wants to feel like a mountain bike.

Meet Chill Peppa .

Check back as the Peppa comes to life.

Katie Ride for Life

2009-04-23T04:57:00.008-04:00

The Katie Ride is to bring awareness to people about the importance of Organ Donor Registration. It is an easy thing to do for any responsible adult! The ride for 100k and century started at 7:00.

Before the ride, the ZenCog lined up with all the lightweight bikes waiting for the 100k ride. This was to be the longest ride she would go with windy conditions forecasted. I was a bit concerned about braking in a pack as the coaster takes a bit more distance. My fears simply required a bit more care, especially at 90 degree turns. Check the saddle "jowls" on the bike bar rack.

I wore my Navy Blue "clipless" bike shoes aka Chuck Taylors. I spoke to one woman who said the upstroke of her clipless increased her speed. Then I blew past her. I have found that wearing my clipless on a geared road bike added barely 1 mph.

I stopped along the way to have the ZenCog pose in front of a historic church on Amelia Island.

As you can imagine I got a lot of looks as my old school, simple ride stood out among the high tech expensive bikes. I kept pace in the middle of the pack and many were shocked as I sped past them. The ride was a success, I raised some money for a good cause, and handed out some business cards.

Token Headset

2009-01-06T10:53:00.004-05:00

I have upgraded the headset to a Token sealed bearing headset. As with all the other parts on the ZenCog, function, beauty and timeless appeal are incorporated in this headset. I especially like the low key branding on this product, unlike many other high end headset manufacturers like Chris King. I order these direct from Taiwan, but they are worth the wait, and keep some in stock to build custom bikes for my customers.

Nitto 686 Seatpost

2009-01-05T05:40:00.005-05:00

The Nitto 686 seatpost is simple, light, and beautiful. I consider this to be the neck of the bike, and supports the Brooks saddle as well as your butt. Stems and seatposts are often the cheapest part on stock bikes, overlooked by most consumers since they mostly play a utilitarian role on the bike. I certainly could have gone with a part that costs a fraction of what the Nitto costs, but it would not be of the quality or look of this seatpost. Since the ZenCog has so few parts, each one has to be carefully selected, and that includes the seatpost. I am sure you will appreciate its value.

Sugino RD 48T

2009-01-01T05:55:00.012-05:00

Sugino is one of the oldest names in cranks. These forged alloy cranks are light and strong, not to mention beautiful.

They can be paired up with the Sugino Zen 44T messenger chainring for an additional fee but I like the artistic road chain ring for that old school look. Currently they come with the new "S" crown logo rather than the Sugino logo, and I think this is a much cleaner look, with less branding, which is one of the requirements of ZenCog.

A key technical goal for a fixie or single speed bike is chainline. Unlike a geared bike that has a derailleur to compensate for the chainline as it moves through the gears, a single speed bicycle cyclist is after a perfect line between chainring and cog, which is measured from the center of the bike.

The standard for track bikes is 42mm, but it can be any length so long as it is equal. The Sugino RD with the matching Sugino 103mm bottom bracket produces a 45mm chainline. ZenCog's wheel maker custom makes the rear coaster hub wheel to set the cog at 45mm. This produces the sought after perfect chainline of the fixie culture, which means a silent and smooth ride for the ZenCog.

MKS Touring Pedals

2009-01-01T05:41:00.004-05:00

There are so many pedals out there, it must appear like a hard choice, but it wasn't. The MKS Touring Pedal is timeless and easy to use. Although clips can be added, I use them bare.

Unlike track pedals which have a right side to ride on, these pedals are usable on either side, so you don't have to look down to see which side you are on. They can also be used with any kind of shoe, including flip-flops.

I have used all kinds of pedals including thousands of miles on clipless shoes and pedals, but these simple pedals are part of the freedom of the ZenCog. I don't have to grab my cycling shoes to go for a ride, just roll up my right pant leg, and off I go!

Brooks B-17 Special Saddles

2008-12-31T06:30:00.007-05:00

The Brooks Saddle is like none other. They have been making these fine works of art in England since the 1866. They should know what they are doing by now, and they do. One might think that this hard leather must give a rough ride vs. a modern gel laden saddle, but that is not true.

On a road bike you are using your sit bones, and the better they are supported the more comfortable the ride. Over time the Brooks Saddle is molded to your sit bones, this takes a few hundred miles to "break in." For some it takes this time to get to the most comfortable, but I was comfortable from day 1!

The copper rivets and rails on the B-17 Special always attract comments from others. This saddle is truly unique and you can order it in Honey as shown, Black, or Green. If you are not convinced check out these reviews from mtbr.com. This review is for the B-17 Standard which is less expensive than the B-17 Special I use on the ZenCog. See what 86 users of the saddle have to say.

Even if you do not buy a ZenCog, you should get a Brooks saddle, your butt will be glad you did!

Forever Young

2008-12-31T06:19:00.004-05:00

Riding a bike is the Fountain of Youth. I know something about that fountain because I live live near St. Augustine where Ponce Deleon discovered it. It is a rat infested well, and the water tastes pretty bad. I did not get younger when tasting it.

Cycling has made me younger, and the ZenCog has helped me find cycling enlightenment. I know this all sounds lame, but I am spoiled now. I have 20 bikes in the stable and every time I grab one that is not the ZenCog, I get disappointed in the ride.

Anyway I was riding from Atlantic Beach to Mickler's Landing (supposed spot Ponce landed) and passed by one of the few blighted buildings of Jax Beach. I saw this graffiti and could not help posing the ZenCog with it. I do feel Forever Young now!

At the Beach

2008-12-22T06:26:00.010-05:00

I brought the prototype home to the beach to put some miles on her. I took my weekend 25 mile round trip to Crossroads and back on Saturday and Sunday. I was curious at how the bike would handle the winds and how I would handle one speed for that distance, as well as the Brooks saddle an my ass. The saddle was fine and the wind no problem, but I was not sure about the tension. Although she was silent, I felt a bit of friction through my Converse from the pedal. What I felt was the chain. I adjusted the tension Saturday and went back out on Sunday. The ride was sublime and supple. Although I felt the chain a bit when accelerating, once I found the ZenPoint. the chain disappeared. I could no longer feel it, the chainline was perfect at 45mm as was the tension. I ride all bikes before sold to get the tension just right. I was actually shocked at how I was not fatigued at all from the 25 miles in the wind.

As usual after the Crossroads ride, I joined my wife for a 10 mile Atlantic Beach loop. I could not get over listening to her chain run through the rear derailleur and her freewheel bearings singing throughout the ride. The ZenCog was silent, not a sound. The only audible noise from the ZenCog is the sound of tire contact with the road, otherwise it was blissful silence. I did not want to stop riding, but we had some chores to do. This bike is pure joy!

Which Nitto handlebar is right for you?

2008-12-16T04:40:00.019-05:00

ZenCog offers five types of handlebars. The prototype bike was built with "Bullhorns." These handlebars look aggressive, but they are more like a road bike with "hoods" and not the "drops." Most road bike handlebars have the brake levers mounted at the top of the drop. The most common long distance hand position is to hold the hood. This position is between sitting more upright and holding the top of the bar or more aggressive and leaning down into the drops. Most people do not ride in the drops for long range, but for sprints or against the wind. Since the ZenCog does not have any hand brakes, the upward bend in the bar, simulates the hood position. I personally like this bar the best.

The "Classic Bend" drop handlebar is the most common road bike handlebar and gives the bike a timeless old school feel and look. There are many hand positions on this bike, but it will not simulate brake lever "hood" positions.

The "North Road" is more of a cruiser handlebar. This is by far the least aggressive of the five and one may want to gear the bike with the bigger cog, since this riding style will be much more relaxed. You will still have the road bike feel, but with a more upright position.

The "Flat" bar is reminiscent of "90's" style mountain bike bars. There are not many hand positions on this bar but it has a relatively aggressive style and works well for jumping curbs. There are a lot of fixie riders that are switching to these bars, although they are often cutting them down to weave through traffic easily. I have decided to leave the bar at the original length.

Finally the "Mustache." It takes an independent unique person to ride a ZenCog to begin with, but you have to be special to ride the quirky mustache. This bar goes from a semi upright hand position on the ends, to a more aggressive style in the semi-drop. These handlebars are finished with bar tape, not grips and those who swear by them claim to have the most hand positions of any handlebar.

Lots of choices, but the selection is what makes your ZenCog unique for you. Most people will look at the handlebars and know right away what they want. If you are unsure I will be glad to work with you and help you decide.

Schwalbe Marathon Plus

2008-12-11T06:05:00.009-05:00

I have decided on the tire. After trying several, I wound up with the first tire I wanted to use, the Schwalbe Marathon Plus. I tried a few different sizes, but settled on the 35c. The frame will hold up to 40c, but that was too big. The 25c was too small to mount easily, and I was concerned about clients being able to change a flat. The 35c is the sweet spot and it was large enough to absorb the road's potholes, jump curbs, and ride comfortably on a sidewalk. These are the attributes I love on my cyclocross bike. The big tire is awesome.

Here is a review from a person who used these for touring. An added bonus is the reflective sidewalls. The ZenCog does not come with add on reflectors, so these reflective sidewalls will make you visible at night when car beams shine on you. They work so well that I cannot photograph the ZenCog with flash.

You will also note the Zipp stem extender. This was a mistake that I love and everyone who sees it becomes curious. Most tubes for 35c have short stems, but these tires are mounted on a deep V track wheel and needs a longer stem. I found these extenders and they add a practical yet artistic solution. The ZenCog got a bonus in appearance and practicality. You do not need a stem cap with these. Just attach the presta side of the pump and start pumping. My goal is that my clients will not have to change these tires until they log several thousand miles, and they will never experience a flat.

The First ZenCog

2008-12-04T06:37:00.010-05:00

I just finished getting the prototype in ride-able condition. I am still waiting on the headset, but that will be changed out when it arrives and I will begin taking photos for the website. I was totally stoked. I have been researching the components for months, making decisions on style, color, reviews, specifications, etc. The only other 700c coaster bike I have built was on an old Trek road bike that did not have track dropouts, and tensioning is a bit of a problem. The bottom bracket was original and somewhat shot, but the headset was smooth.

As soon as I tensioned the chain perfect, sat on the Brooks saddle and felt the fine leather handlebar wrap I could not wait to take it out of the studio and onto the street. I took a maiden voyage in the parking lot to make sure it worked well. I have it set at 48x18. I was concerned it may be a bit stout since the stock Surly Steamroller is 47x19. It wasn't tough at all, considering the Trek is 52x16. I have to keep in mind the defaults my clients will want, and I believe I will leave the default gearing at 48x20, closer to the Steamroller.

I was absolutely overcome with emotion. The bike was as smooth, tight, and light as I had envisioned in my memory. Off I sailed down the boulevard and back streets. I am still trying to decide on the appropriate tire and size. Currently I am running 23c Hutchinson Reflex foldable tires, that were super easy to mount. Regardless, it was an awesome moment, and I hope that my clients will be as thrilled as I was on the very moment that I rode the very first ZenCog.

Head Badge Created

2008-11-21T05:51:00.005-05:00

I was stoked yesterday when Jen Green had already created the badge.

She sent this picture for approval. It was exactly as I had envisioned it. This will be the only branding on the bikes I build. No words, no decals, just the never ending circle of the Zen symbol. I can't wait for it to arrive and attach it to the first bike off the line - a metallic silver with honey Brooks B-17 Special saddle and matching bar leather.

Zen Teacher

2008-11-19T10:25:00.002-05:00

A Zen Teacher saw five of his students return from the market, riding their bicycles. When they had dismounted, the teacher asked the students, "Why are you riding your bicycles?"

The first student replied, "The bicycle is carrying this sack of potatoes. I am glad that I do not have to carry them on my back!" The teacher praised the student, saying, "You are a smart boy. When you grow old, you will not walk hunched over, as I do."

The second student replied, "I love to watch the trees and fields pass by as I roll down the path." The teacher commended the student, "Your eyes are open and you see the world."

The third student replied, "When I ride my bicycle, I am content to chant, nam myoho renge kyo." The teacher gave praise to the third student, "Your mind will roll with the ease of a newly trued wheel."

The fourth student answered, "Riding my bicycle, I live in harmony with all beings." The teacher was pleased and said, "You are riding on the golden path of non-harming."

The fifth student replied, "I ride my bicycle to ride my bicycle." The teacher went and sat at the feet of the fifth student, and said, "I am your disciple."

The ZenCog line of custom order bicycles is designed for all five students. In a world filled with complex daily life I create ZenCog bicycles to simplify and enrich your life. ZenCog - Art in Motion

Head Badge

2008-11-19T06:49:00.007-05:00

I have been searching the web for a place to get a Zen head badge made. This will be the only branding on the ZenCog. In fact it will be the symbol only, no words. Out of nowhere I found Jen. http://www.jen-green.com/. She too has a passion for bicycles, and she shares my wifes passion for jewelry as well. She has done badges for some of the biggest names in custom bike building. She calls her sterling silver badges, bicycle jewelry - I call it art.

Anyway, after a few emails back and forth, we have agreed to move forward in time to get the first badge delivered by the end of the year. The one decision I have yet to make is how will I attach it. I can use a 3M tape, jen weld it or use screws. I will have to decide before the first is produced. I have decided on the size. Jen recommended 1.5 inches. I compared this to the Surly head badge on my 1x1 and this seems like a good size.

The Beginning

2008-11-18T16:52:00.010-05:00

This is my first post to ZenCog. I am starting this bicycle company to channel my desires to build quality, simple, single speed coaster brake bikes. In a complex world with 30 gears, disc brakes, clip-less shoes and spandex galore, I think there is a desire to ride without cables and multiple gears. I find most people stick to one or two gears, the trick here is to find the one you like, and make it all purpose.

When it comes to the coaster brake, that is what we rode as children and what I taught both of my kids on. When people say it is unsafe not to have lever brakes and cables, are we sending our kids into danger? I do not think so. A ZenCog is not really designed to go 30 mph, nor is it designed for steep hills. It is a road bike, with track wheels and a design that is timeless. The frame is not cluttered with advertisement stickers, except for the sterling silver Zen symbol on the head tube badge. I offer over 20 custom colors and if there is not the one you like, we will custom match your color of choice.

I have the frame, and components are on the way. Feel free to follow my journey as I set out to build "Art in Motion".