I think that the web can provide fantastically educational experiences, and I keep track of websites that I find interesting. Here are some of them.
Paul Components - http://www.paulcomp.com
This Chico, CA outfit makes one of the nicest component lines available, right down to track dropouts. I use their products whenever I can.
Phil Wood - http://www.philwood.com
The real OGs in the great tradition of American boutique component manufacturing. If you’re into performance bearings, go Phil. Based in San Jose, CA.
Anvil Bikeworks - http://anvilbikes.com/
Don Ferris makes tools in Littleton, CO. His creations are tributes to fine machinework.
Velocity USA - http://www.velocityusa.com/
You’ve probably seen your local hipster riding around on a pair of this Aussie company’s famous Deep-V rims. And being as they’re available in all hot pink without machined brake surfaces, who can blame the guy?
Quad Bikes - http://www.quadbikes.org
A student-run cooperative at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA. Their t-shirt design is exquisite.
Fixed Gear Gallery - http://www.fixedgeargallery.com
This site has inspired me in many ways, and I keep pretty close track of it. Maintained by Dennis Bean-Larson, Traverse City, Michigan.
Sheldon Brown Bicycle Technical Info - http://www.sheldonbrown.com
This site should speak for itself. It contains a wealth of information. Sheldon lives near Boston, MA.
The North American Handmade Bicycle Show - http://www.handmadebicycleshow.com
If you can, go. It is consistently a showcase of the finest work imaginable. Managed by Don Walker.
The Bicycle Forest - http://bikeforest.com
This Canadian company provides frame design software that is a great tool for any builder. They also have pictures of a “Hula Bike” on their site – very cool.
