This & That

David Johanssen, aka Buster Poindexter, passed away a few days back. He was just a few months older than I am. I'm looking for at least another 5 good years. If I make it to 80, I'll reset the clock and shoot for another five. RIP Mr. Johanssen. 

The photo is from the Rivendell bike email I received. It has a very much 1940s look to it, other than the electric fan. I especially like the welding hood with the riveted leather flaps top and bottom. The photo was taken at the Nitto factory recently and Rivendell is selling a series of 5x7 prints at a bike show in Philly currently and if they don't sell out of them at the show, they'll be on their website.

They are also selling Ilford black and white film in 35mm and 120 now in addition to complete bicycles, parts and accessories. Theirs is a different business model than most bike manufacturers but their website is worth a look. We all should be a cyclist of some stripe - good, low impact form of exercise and cheap transportation for short hops. A Rivendell bike is not necessarily cheap, but my touring bike that has taken me on several long-distance tours cost me only eight dollars from the local church rummage sale. I spent some money on a couple of upgrades, but there are lots of cheap bikes out there.  

Frankie Flood at Handverker has some interesting stuff up on his blog. You need to scroll down and see the '36 Ford. The car was built at Rad Rides by Troy. Surly and I took a class from Ron Covell that was held there several years ago. They do great work, but I don't think this one can be topped. Check it out here.