Not to be presumptuous, but might we suggest a new year's resolution for some of our cycling brethren? Get some lights and use them. Here at Tip Top we don't want to be finger-wagging curmudgeons but here's our little list for why using lights is a no-brainer:

*They keep moving objects such as cars, other riders, and pedestrians from hitting you. (There's not much to be done about hitting objects at rest other than paying attention).

*All the other movers and shakers out on the street are more likely to stay out of your way which means you're less likely to take anyone out.

*And don't fool yourself: You Are Invisible Without Them.

It's a little list, but a good list we think. Straightforward. Sensible. No nonsense.

Oh yeah, and it's illegal to ride without a front light in California. Cops will stop you. They will give you a ticket. And not a cheap ticket either. So keep your wallet full and your body in one piece. Put some lights on your bike, your bag, your helmet; turn'em on and ride like the wind.

Happy Holidays and keep the rubber side down...

The Tip Top Crew

'Tis the season to be jolly and bright...or something like that. Here at Tip Top, we're putting out as many pretty, shiny holiday goodies as we can get our hands on. So for any of you last minute shoppers (and don't feel guilty... we all do it) our doors are open all weekend and from 12-4 on Christmas Eve.

Here's a tasty sprinkle of what we've got going on:

*funky new Crumpler bags
*zippy and scootable Specialized Hotwalks for the little ones
*chic and functional clothing from Vanderkitten "for women who kick ass" (and the men who dig'em)
*hi-power rechargable lights from Niterider and Knog and Frog of all colors
*a full range of "I Hella Bike Oakland" t-shirts, water bottles, stickers (which are free) and the new arrival "I Hecka Trike Oakland" one-zees and t-shirts for wee riders.

And if you're looking for a gift for the rider who has it all, our very own Derek designed and created some sweet top tube protectors--check them out for the fixie in you life...and you get to support the new daddy; a worthy cause.
JP