Spurcycle, creators of the precision Spurcycle bell, launched their new Compact Bell just two months back – right before the pandemic officially hit – and sold out completely within the first couple of weeks. Inventory replenished, Spurcycle’s direct sales are up, retail sales are steady, and dealers are selling lots of bikes. Also up, are the number of users on multi-use paths and bike trails. If there was ever a need to add a bell to your flat bar bike, that time is likely now.
Optimized for flat bars, the Compact Bell is the anticipated follow-up ringer to Spurcycle’s successful, original bell that was Kickstarted in 2013. The original bell – made to fit drop bar bikes (et al) – remains in line. The new Compact Bell has been amended with a 50% slimmer mount and trim lever which allows better integration with many brake, shifter and dropper levers seen on modern bikes. It is intended for use with mountain bike, commuter, eBikes or any other bike that uses a 22.2 mm diameter bar.
While many businesses across the US were shuttered, bike shops were deemed essential. People have been dusting off and repairing bikes that have been sitting or are purchasing new bikes from shops. Bike shops, many with a skeleton crew, can barely manage the pace. “We’ve been beyond overwhelmed,” said Doug Hall, owner of Bike Therapy in Morgan Hill, CA. “’Business is brisk’ is a major understatement,” he said.
Some accessory sales, included locks, lights and helmets, have soared (Bicycle Trip, Santa Cruz, CA). Trails and paths, even with ‘shelter in place’ orders in effect have been more crowded than ever as local and state governments have encouraged people to get outside, walk, hike on trails and ride bicycles.
“The trails are a lot more crowded now, especially on the weekends,” said industry veteran and former pro downhill racer Maxine Irving who rides both gravel roads and mtb trails. Irving noted, “I’m seeing bigger groups of people, anywhere from four to ten-deep, and teenagers who might otherwise be at the mall. It’s great that they’re outside but as new user’s to trails and dirt roads, they don’t all understand that there’s trail etiquette. A bell is a more pleasant way to nudge people to share the trail. And it’s easy added safety for all of us.”
The new Compact Bell features a brass alloy dome (with black DLC coating), a composite nylon lever and mount and a fixed 22.2 diameter clamp. Less complex with an overall lower part count, the bell delivers premium sound and compatible ergonomics at a reduced price point of $39.
Spurcycle’s Compact Bell is available at spurcycle.com and is also stocked and available through Spurcycle’s dealer network. Spurcycle’s Compact Bell is the most recent collaboration of brothers Nick and Clint Slone, following the original Spurcycle Bell, Key Clip, Multi Pouch, Multi Tool, Saddle Bag, and Hip Pack. Their focus—in addition to meticulous design—is to create products that don’t require a slick sales pitch but which encourage blatant favoritism.
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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