Gift Ideas from Compass Bicycles
This year, the holiday season has snuck up on me. I’ve been so busy with testing bikes, writing articles for Bicycle Quarterly, and developing new products, that suddenly it’s December, and I wonder what to give to those who are special in my life. Worse yet, family and relatives ask me about my wishes.
The same may be happening to you, so here are some great gift ideas. Forward them to anybody who asks “What would you like for …” Click on the photos or links for more info.
Magazine:
If you read this, chances are that you already subscribe to Bicycle Quarterly. If not, it’s a great gift idea. The magazine provides inspiration for rides, tests great products, explores fascinating history, and is simply an overall good read – especially the extra-large 50th issue. The most common complaint is that it does not appear often enough! We also offer back issues, in case you already have a subscription. $36
Books:
Goggles & Dust is a lovely little book with photos of 1920s and 1930s racers. You can spend hours marveling at the bikes, the clothes and the facial expressions of the “heroes of the open road.” $17
Our large-format Calendar of Classic Bicycles will accompany you through the year, with beautiful studio photos of some of the most amazing bicycles ever made. $15
Need for the Bike is my favorite cycling book. Philosopher Paul Fournel writes about why we ride. He’s a true philosopher, and he doesn’t hide behind inscrutable prose. It’s a lovely read, and on every page, you’ll nod your head in agreement and yet learn something new. $17
The René Herse Posters bring two of our favorite images from the René Herse archives to your wall. Large (23″ x 32″) posters printed on coated stock and varnished for protection. Ready-t0-frame. $20 / $ 35 for both.
The Competition Bicycle is the sequel to our classic The Golden Age of Handbuilt Bicycles. Even if racing bikes are not your thing, you’ll learn how bicycle technology developed and enjoy the beautiful studio photos of some of the rarest bicycles in the world. $50
TOEI – The Art of the Beautiful Bicycle is a great photo book about the amazing bikes that TOEI has made over the last 50+ years. The text is in Japanese, but the beautiful photos are a joy to behold without foreign language skills. Limited quantities, so if you want this book, put it on your gift list now! $70
Reviewers have called our René Herse book a masterpiece. It wasn’t difficult to write about such a rich and fascinating subject: beautiful bikes, great events, wonderful friendships between riders. The joy of cycling radiates from every photo, and the stories that go with them are incredible. This book isn’t just about René Herse, but about a time when cycling was more than a pastime – it was a way of life. $86
Signed Limited Edition comes in a slipcase and includes four ready-to-frame prints. $185
“I can hardly put it down. This book is so much more than I expected.”
Constance Winters, Lovely Bicycle
Clothing
Our Merino Wool Jerseys isn’t just the most comfortable jersey you’ll ever wear, it’s also one of the most durable. The blue color is visible on the road, yet blends into the landscape. Available with short and long sleeves. $155 – 165
Components:
The René Herse Straddle Cable Hanger looks like a holiday ornament. It won’t make your bike perform better, but it will make it prettier. $38 (pair).
Waterbottle Cages: Nitto and Iribe cages combine beauty and function – a great addition to any bike. Add a Compass Water Bottle to make it a complete set. $60 and up.
If you haven’t tried supple, wide tires yet, this is your chance. Ask for a set, and you’ll smile on every ride. $57 – 78
Tired of overhauling creaking bottom brackets? The SKF bottom bracket is designed for 65,000 trouble-free miles and comes with a 10-year warranty. $149
Perhaps the ultimate holiday gift are our René Herse Cranks. Giving you a choice of chainrings in single, double or triple configuration, you’ll never find yourself in the wrong gear again! $435 – 495
The holiday season always is busy, but I look forward to taking a break and going for a ride, even if it’s only around the city.
All of us at Compass Bicycles wish you and yours a happy holiday season!
Photo credit: Fred Blasdel (top photo)
