Two girls, hardly any money, an original idea, a bit of insanity and a perfect location.
They are affordable and colourful – it's something that was really missing from the market and a whole generation of people have started cycling again as a result of the Create revolution.
It's really as simple this: what do you want it for? Is it for your new triathlon obsession, commute-to-work, nip-to-the-shops - when are you going to use it? It's also important in a city to think about where you're going to keep it. Lots of people end up carrying their cycle up stairs because it will get pillaged if they leave it out on the street at night.
The technical way of ensuring your bike is safe is based on a letter M – it’s called an M check funnily enough! You imagine following a letter M from your front wheel up and then down to where your pedals are, then up to the saddle and finally down to the centre of the rear wheel.
You should wobble the areas that spin, pull things and make sure nothing comes off or moves in a weird way. Squeaks and rattles are signs of things not attached properly, coming loose, rubbing or lack of oiling.
Create bikes in particular are straightforward bikes without the complications of multiple gears. The main things to keep an eye on are tyre pressure – keeping them pumped helps reduce punctures and it uses less of your energy to get along. You need to keep the chain tight or tensioned, make sure the brakes are tight and get the pads replaced when well used.
Really good tyres are a sound investment for people that don't like fixing punctures.
I have a new idea every day and sometimes sticking to the same course is not easy. It will be growing!
*TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY
Free bike check at Lock 7 London only and subject to availability. Redeemed on presentation of valid Urban Outfitters receipt and only on Create bikes bought from Urban Outfitters Europe. Ends 18th January 2013.
