It's no secret around here that Velo Vision Magazine pays attention to what's happening in the cycling world and to see the latest issue's (#36) cover is sweet. The Cover picture sells a story by Richard Peace in which he critiques 3 cargo bikes after having tested all three rather extensively.

There's a whole lot of fun in Velo Vision #36. We're pretty partial to the Richard's review of three cargo bikes that he tested. The cargo bikes he rode were the Larry vs. Harry Bullitt, Madsen kg271 and a Yuba Mundo.

Here are a few Headlines of Velo Vision #36

Workbikes special!

Richard Peace puts three two-wheel load-carriers through real-world tests. Under the spotlight are the Bullitt Clockwork, the Madsen kg271 and the Yuba Mundo, the last with an Ezee electric assist system.

Dropping in on dealers: another three reports from specialist dealers across the country: London Recumbents, Futurecycles, Bikes and Trailers. What you'll find if you visit yourself...
Review: Villiers custom frame. It's here at last - a lovely test bed bike frame built by Paul Villiers to our own Velo Vision design. We look back on the custom ordering process, and the end result.
Review: Catrike Dash. This medium-sized recumbent trike for teens or for the shorter rider is put through its paces by riders who appreciate its proportions...
Review: FreeParable T1 Trailer. An impressive new bike trailer from Taiwan which transforms into a smart, baggage-handler-proof suitcase.
Short reviews: Books, chains, trousers, bells, puncture fluid...
Reader bikes: Streetmachine recumbent, doing up a DIY trike...
Report: London show: A brief reports on new products at Cycle 2009.
Feature: Touring with dogs: How lack of pet-sitters led a couple to tour with two dogs on board - and how they cope.
Regular features: News, Letters, and the best specialist advertising!

Yes, that's right. Sara isn't darkening the doorway at Perennial Cycle except for visits to make sure we're all OK. After several years of ever-faithful service Sara is going to work at Peace Coffee. The smell of roasting coffee calls us all at some point and Sara's going straight to the source.

It was a bit over a month ago. I meant to write this post a month ago, but I've chasing my tail to keep up with her tasks!

We had a fun night eating Thai Curry and telling stories about our day-to-day life at the shop. Smiles all around!

Sara had a special way of relating to customers needs and we'll miss her dearly. I don't have the same level of patience and while John is working hard to fill her boots, though we all know that her boots had more cycling miles than any other pair in town.

So, what do we all say (with tears running down our cheeks):

Thank You Sara!

Last week we took delivery of Larry vs. Harry Bullitt cargo bikes. We have been anxiously awaiting these newly engineered cargo bikes. Homeland Security decided to put them in the slow lane of our customs office and about the time we were thinking they'd never arrive, a truck pulls up with the goods.

I had Bike Club at the local elementary school  that afternoon and thus raced to get one put together in time to ride with the kids (thanks for the ride Mary. I still can't believe I fit it into our undersized minivan). I hadn't ridden 25 feet and a boy yelled out of a crowd "cool bike!"). What a great start to this new relationship!

Now I've had a chance to shop for groceries, make a few runs to the warehouse, commute to work as well as just riding the Bullitt out and about with the family. My expectations were high (really high). The Bullitt has performed all tasks in an amazing fashion. It's fast as all get out, it's completely FUN to fly around on and then comes the cargo part of the deal. This bike can take your load with hardly a notice of it. My typical loads have been 20 -50 pounds and I'm telling you, it's effect on the handling is a non-issue. The bike has exceeded my expectations by a lot.

Yesterday I was at a stoplight downtown and someone yelled out "Hey guy, what is that?". I responded :"the future" as the light turned green and I took off with a smile. Believe me when I tell you that the Bullitt is special and it will push the Cargo-Commuter category of bikes well beyond its current position.

Arriving in the shop this week are the much anticipated Civia Lorings. We fell in love with these bikes when we first saw them back at Interbike last year. In their words 'From its gently sloping top tube to its bamboo fenders and matching trim, the Loring is a study in elegance, simplicity and fun. Designed for short runs, the Loring carries up to 50 pounds of cargo while delivering an exceptionally balanced ride.'
An urban commuter so beautiful you can't wait to be seen on. The first one built is going to Mary but the second will be available for test rides this weekend. I'll post more details when I've put a few miles on.