Kendra Davidson

11

Feb, 2020

2 Wheeling to the Grocery Store

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, cargobike, Dutch Bakfiets, dutch bicycle, Dutch Bicycle Canada, dutch bike, Dutch Cargobike, grocery shopping by bike | Comments: 0

Does anyone else seem to live in a grocery store? Back in the day when I didn’t have a child, a dog, after school and weekend pint sized hollow legged extra’s that pop into our house, I went grocery shopping once a week. So like all parents, that once a week grocery shopping trip turned into 4x a week, because either you run out of something, your nut free packaged food stash for the one friend with allergies has gone and you have to restock, you volunteered to get last […]

30

Jan, 2020

Choose Your 2 Wheeled Route

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, bicycle routes, cargobike, dutch bike, momlife | Comments: 0

I get asked frequently how I started running errands by bike. It was a slow process, everyone, including those of us who own a bicycle store, start from somewhere. I will admit, riding alone wasn’t as nerve wracking as transporting precious cargo. I think back to the first car ride home from the hospital, and going 30km an hour afraid of every movement with a tiny newborn. It takes time to get used to it, there is nothing wrong with feeling nervous, but you shouldn’t be afraid. My main goal […]

28

Jan, 2020

2 Wheeling with a Dog

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, cargobike, dog bicycle baskets, Dogs, dogs on bicycles, dutch bike | Comments: 0

If you are anything like us, you want to find a way to ride and run errands with your dog, especially during the warm months when it is just too hot for your dog to wait for you in the car. If your dog is a jumper, having a proper dog basket is key, it gives your four legged best friend a more secure ride. You don’t get anxious and neither do they. This one pictured below acts more like a crate and makes them feel secure for their ride, […]

16

Jan, 2020

Bicycle Hand Signals

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, bicycle hand signals, bicycle safety, hand signals, safety | Comments: 0

A little while ago, I was riding around running errands by bakfiets, I had stopped, then signaled. Nothing unusual, I had a driver then put down her window and yell out “I don’t know my hand signals!” I was a little startled. An unusual confession coming from a driver. I am not sure why she bothered to tell me, because the next question that came to mind was “how many people don’t know their bike signals?” I remember vividly learning hand signals at school at a young age. Plus, I […]

The Dutch Bicycle Culture

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, cargobikes, culture, Dutch Bicycles, dutch culture, travel | Comments: 0

The first time we saw the miles of bicycle networks and bicycle traffic in the Netherlands was 9 years ago, with a then 1 year old in a pack on our back. We had decided to backpack for a few months with a toddler, some would think we were insane, but it was a blast. Our first stop was Amsterdam, it was the shortest direct flight from our then home in Vancouver. Vancouver at that time was just going through the beginning of a bicycle revolution, and it was a […]

11

Jan, 2020

Pedal Assist Bakfiets – The Game Changer

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, cargo bike, dutch bike, electric bikes, pedal assist bakfiets, pedal assist cargo bike | Comments: 0

No matter how short or long a trip, I get stopped when riding the Bakfiets, especially when they look and see there is a battery. Not only does it intrigue people, but the battery somehow opens up a completely different dialogue with strangers. I have been riding a bakfiets for 8 years. Throughout the years we have had a short, a long, then the long with pedal assist. The bakfiets has been the shared bike in our house, the one bike that seems to work comfortably with a 6ft man […]

18

Mar, 2016

Onderwater Tandem

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Cargo bike Canada, dutch bicycle, Dutch Bicycle Canada, Onderwater Tandem, Onderwater Tandem Canada | Comments: 0

A great choice and safe way for your kids to participate in pedalling while you are in full control of their speed and safety. An XL is $4499 and it includes the NuVinci 360 CVT (continuously variable transmission) giving lots of range and durability under the load of three people pedalling. Factual (investment perspective). 1. Cars are so expensive that the savings from reducing their usage easily eclipses even the most expensive family bicycle. With our family bicycle we have transitioned from car ownership to car sharing. The CAA pegs […]

Nihola Cargo Bike Canada

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: cargo bike, Nihola Cargo bike, Nihola cargo bike Canada, Urkai Nihola Cargo bike | Comments: 0

Another incredible Cargo Bike brand is coming to Urkai, and we couldn’t be more excited! The Danish made Nihola trike, which has been called the best 3-wheeled cargo bike for child transportation by the Danish newspaper Politiken and the Dutch ”Fietsersbond” (Dutch Cyclist Union). Fantastic for children, dogs and cool one’s that can be made for business: Black double strength aluminium wheel rims, Magura parking brake, screws and fittings in stainless steel, integrated fittings for lifts and car seats, Danish hand-build frame with extra horizontal strengthening steel bars in […]

Urban Arrow Cargo Bike Canada

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: cargobike, Urban Arrow, Urban Arrow Canada, Urban Arrow cargo bike Canada | Comments: 0

We are very excited to announce we will be bringing in the Dutch electric bike, the Urban Arrow! Another incredible Dutch design. Made out of lightweight aluminum, powered by a Bosch motor. With its electric assist you are always riding downwind. And it easily changes gear thanks to the continuously variable transmission by NuVinci. Which means changing gears without thinking. Who needs a car! The Family Urban Arrow: The Family can be flexibly customized. Thanks to its modular nature you can easily transform it into a Shorty – e.g. when your […]

Claire McCardell Bicycle Fashion, 1940’s

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Claire McCardell. vintage bicycle fashion, fashion, style | Comments: 0

Claire McCardell (1905–1958) was an American fashion designer of ready-to-wear clothing in the 20th century. From the 1930s to the 1950s, she was known for designing functional, affordable, and stylish women’s sportswear. Cold weather, no problem with this ensemble

Vintage Postman on Bicycles

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: | Comments: 0

Royal Mail 1920 Royal Dutch PTT

12

Nov, 2015

Audrey Hepburn

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Audrey Hepburn, Audrey Hepburn on a Bicycle, beauty, bicycle, style | Comments: 0

The allure of Audrey Hepburn will exist for years to come. Her style, grace, intelligence, and beauty have made her an icon. Her style and humanity work inspire fashion houses, Her close ties to Givenchy, made her movies, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s visually stunning, who can forget some of those dresses! Besides the clothing, she was often seen riding a bicycle, and photographed on one.

12

Nov, 2015

Taylor Swift on 2 Wheels

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: beauty, bicycle, Famous on a Bicycle, style, Taylor Swift, Taylor Swift on a Bicycle | Comments: 0

Who doesn’t love the spunky Taylor Swift and her stylish ways on 2 wheels.

Dutch Army Bicycle band

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, Bicycle Band, Dutch Army Bicycle band, dutch bicycle | Comments: 0

You have to just admire the Dutch, they use bicycles as vehicles, they don’t think of themselves as cyclists, just Dutch, they don’t dress for their bicycles ever, and they have an Army bicycle band. Yeah, I know, you might have to reread that a couple of times, or just watch these fabulous videos.

12

Nov, 2015

Brompton Electric Bike Canada

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Brompton, electric brompton, electric folding bicycle, Electric Folding Brompton Canada, folding bike, Urkai Electric Brompton | Comments: 0

Many of you love the Brompton (What is not to love?), but sometimes it is necessary to add a little power. Sometimes those big hills and long rides need a little boost, electrifying your Brompton is a great way to do it. The most important feature is the fact that electrifying, does not mean you lose the ability to fold it into the perfect compact bike the Brompton is known to be. There are different options that can be customized. The first is torque, and what that means is, the […]

Before and After 007

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycles, photographs, Sean Connery, Sean Connery on a Bicycle | Comments: 0

Ah, the man has class and style. Before the Aston Martin, there was a 2 wheeled kind of transportation. Sean Connery riding a bicycle during filming of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Marnie” in 1963. And after 007, he is still all style: Sean Connery (playing William Forrester) in “Finding Forrester.”

Famke Janssen on an Azor Omafiets

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Azor Omafiets, dutch bicycle, Dutch Omafiets, Famke Janssen, Famke Janssen on an Omafiets | Comments: 0

Famke Janssen, Dutch model and actress, known for being a bond girl in GoldenEye. Rides around on her Azor Omafiets! You don’t have to dress for your bicycle, wear anything, go anywhere. Look at those bright lights – brilliant! Via Dailymail

AZOR DUTCH TOURING BICYCLE WITH ROHLOFF 14

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Azor Dutch Touring Bicycle, Azor Touring Bicycle, Dutch Touring Bicycle, Touring Bicycle | Comments: 0

Yes, you can take a moment and stare at this beauty. The Azor Touring Bicycle is perfect for those wanting to do a much longer ride, but want the comfort of a Dutch Bicycle. Azor’s latest and greatest Touring bicycle. This particular bicycle was custom ordered by one of our customers to include: Rohloff (Speedhub 500/14) 14 speed internal hub, Magura hydraulic rim brakes (hs11), custom paint, Brooks Saddle, Post Moderne suspension seat post and a frame mounted front carrier. Feel free to contact us to order your own beautiful […]

The Azor Omafiets Nostalgic

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Azor Bicycle Nostalgic, Azor Dutch Bicycle, dutch bicycle, Dutch Nostalgic Bicycle, Nostalgic Dutch Bicycle | Comments: 0

Azor Omafiets Nostalgic We typically stock 3 different Azor Oma’s The Azor Oma Standard The Azor nostalgic, which is what we will be focussing on in this post. The Azor Luxury All of the Azor Oma’s are lugged frames. They have a zinc primer for anti rust, and then 2 coats of powder coat finish, for durability, and extra anti rust. The geometry of the frame stays the same for all 3 models, but it is the components that change. The nostalgic package is a beautiful steel bicycle, with front […]

Different Options for Transporting your Child By Bicycle

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycles, bike, Bobike Canada, Child transportation by bicycle | Comments: 0

There is no better way of teaching your child how to bike, than getting them on a bicycle as early as possible. We have so many different options. The first is the Bobike Mini, for the ages of 1-3, and fits behind the handlebars. The second is the Bobike Maxi for the ages of 1-6, and fits on the rear of your bicycle, shown above. For most bicycles, the frame would not be strong enough to have both seats on the bicycle, but our Dutch bicycles are not only strong enough, […]

Bobike Junior Child Bicycle Seat

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Bobike Canada, Bobike Jr, Dutch Bicycle Seat | Comments: 0

The most popular of all the Bobike seats, the Jr. is a sleak seat fitting on the rear for children 5-10 year of age and up to 70 lbs. The seat is designed to fit on almost all bikes, and attaches to the frame and is very secure when installed correctly. The seat is outfitted with a lap belt and foot pegs, as well as guards so they can’t get their foot caught in the spokes. We love this Jr. as it has a flat back and cushions, which is […]

The Best Bicycle Quotes

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, bicycle quotes, Dutch Bicycles | Comments: 0

The History of Gazelle Bicycles

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Dutch Bicycles, Gazelle Bicycles, History of Gazelle Bicycles | Comments: 0

If you think about Dutch Bicycle, you probably think of Gazelle. Gazelle was founded 1892 by Willem Kölling and Rudolf Arentsen. Initially they sold bicycles imported from England, but by 1902 they began their own production under the Gazelle name. In the 1920’s to the 40’s Gazelle exported bicycles to Indonesia, where you still see many of them today being used for everyday life, as well as being sought after as collector items. In 1925 Gazelle used the Piet Pelle cartoon character for advertising purposes and created this video of their factory […]

Goodordering Bicycle Bags

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, bicycle accessories, Goodordering, style | Comments: 0

We are really excited to be bringing in Goodordering bicycle accessories, all the way from the UK. Bringing both functionality and style, these bags will not only look good on your bicycle, but will turn heads. Goodordering designs are inspired by Scadenavian retro style from the 70’s and 80’s as well as Japanese school bags, which is why we love them, the bags actually remind me of school days in Asia. What sets these apart? They are designed with your electronics in mind, pockets for your ipad and phone, padding […]

Canadian History – Bicycles in War

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycles, Canada, Canadian troops, war, WW2 | Comments: 0

After doing a little research, I discovered, Canadian Troops used bicycles in WW2! I am astounded that in all of my history classes, as well as having every last family member of WW2 generation, involved in the war, I had no idea that bicycles were used. Infantrymen checking bicycles aboard an LCI(L) of the 2nd Canadian (262nd RN) Flotilla. Southampton, England, 6 June 1944. (L-R): Privates Reg Martin and Rodney MacNeill, both of The Lorne Scots (Peel, Dufferin and Halton Regiment); Private George Banning of The Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (MG). D-Day 6th […]

The debate on e-bikes and pedal assist

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, e-bikes, pedal assist | Comments: 0

Pedal Assist vs. E-bikes, the debate seems to continue, and has become more convoluted under a mess of legislation. Every province in Canada, has developed their own separate legislation on top of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act (1999), Regulations Amending the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations (Power- assisted Bicycles) which in essence gives a basic guide for Provinces to Follow. The Regulations were amended in 2001, that is a life time ago, and a lot has happened in the bicycle industry since then. If you have ever had the pleasure in working […]

Cargo Bike Families Through the Ages

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: cargobike, child transportation, family bicycle | Comments: 0

Since history is important, and of course, we are a little obsessed with it. We thought we would share some incredible photos of bicycles, and their drivers. This looks like the first bicycle designed for a whole family, a little scary where the baby is, and looks very uncomfortable, but how interesting that this was taken circa 1910! These 2 look quite serious, not sure the woman is at all comfortable, 1918 From Getty images – look at this, is it a pram, is it a tricycle? Who […]

Shopping by Bakfiets

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: beauty, shopping, shopping by bakfiets, style | Comments: 0

One of the nicest things about a bakfiets, is just how much you can put in the box! The box makes it easy to just pile in bags and odd things, without having to give up the seat for your kid(s). There is no right way or wrong way of packing a bakfiets, you just do what is most comfortable for you and your child. All from our Instagram account Urkaiinc

Vintage Bicycle Photos

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, photo, photography, vintage | Comments: 0

This Mum riding on a tricycle/cargobike, circa 1926 A Mother putting a sign on her son, circa 1937 Man’s best friend, just don’t lose your balance: Wello hello there, dog in pannier:

16

Jun, 2015

Bobike Maxi

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Bobike, Bobike Canada, Bobike Maxi, Kids bicycle seat | Comments: 0

Bobike, one of the most well-known kids bicycle seat brands for safety, now in store and online. The Bobike Maxi brings their famous minimalist style with the comfort and safety Bobike is known for. Meant for 1-6 year old, the Bobike Maxi fits on the rear of your bike, and will fit on most bikes, the comfort of the helmet recess, the 3 point harness, as well as a reflector on the rear as extra safety measure. Kids will surely fall asleep in this!

16

Jun, 2015

Bobike Mini

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Bobike, Bobike Mini, dutch bicycle seats, kids bicycle seats | Comments: 0

Bobike, one of the most recognizable names for kids Bicycle seats from the Netherlands, is now being sold in our store or online. Bobike designs are minimalistic, yet safe & comfortable. The Bobike mini is mounted on the front handlebars, cradling your mini one between your arms, so they are upfront and can see the world. This is the seat that we first tried with our then 1-year-old, easily addictive and fun. The harness is comfortable, as is the seat. Meant for 1-3 year old, with its minimalist appeal, it […]

18

Feb, 2015

600 km on a Bakfiets Cargo bike with Max, to save Max

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, cargo bike, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Max's Big Ride, Trans Canada trail | Comments: 1

We would like to introduce you to Andrew, and his son Max. We have had the privilege of getting to know Andrew since he first approached us in January about his vision to ride – a jaw dropping – 600 km on a bakfiets cargo bike with his charming four-year-old son, Max. But this is no ordinary ride, as this is about a father riding a bakfiets cargo bike with his son, to save his son. On June 28, 2013 Max was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – a fatal disease without a cure…YET. As parents with […]

18

Feb, 2015

The making of Azor Dutch Bikes

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Azor, bakfiets, City Bikes, dutch bikes, urkai | Comments: 0

It is no secret that we are huge fans of Azor bicycles and Bakfiets, so being able to visit the factory while we were in the Netherlands was a treat and an honour. Heading to the industrial area of the Netherlands is nothing like any industrial area in Canada, the huge difference, there are bike paths! As we headed into the building, the first thing to see is the showroom of beautiful bicycles, and there are a LOT. Pick a frame, any frame! As you will notice Azor does not […]

20

Jan, 2015

Bakfiets Everywhere

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycles, Holland, Netherlands, travel, urkai | Comments: 0

In our trip to the Netherlands in the fall, we snapped photos of bakfiets everywhere we went as long as we had batteries charged. The bakfiets in their natural habitat, outside and being used:

14

Jan, 2015

Free Clinic: Learn How to Safely Transport Your Children By Bike

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, dutch bikes, Education, transportation, urkai | Comments: 0

When: Saturday Feb. 21st 9:30-10:15 Where: Our store, 687 Guelph Line, Burlington Ontario Our store will be closed for the Clinic and will be open at 10:15 for the general public. What is the right seat for your child? There are so many ways to transport your kids by bike, but what do you need to know to enjoy the ride safely? Come to our free clinic, and we will go through all of the child seat options for children 1 year to 10 years old and all of […]

19

Dec, 2014

Bakfiets Love

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, bicycle, dutch bikes, love, Motherhood, story, urkai | Comments: 0

It can be difficult to put into words, and I often tell people who come into the store, that riding a bakfiets is magical. You don’t get it, and you don’t believe in it, until you ride one with your child. My bakfiets means so much more to me, it is an extension of me that I never thought possible. A car is an inanimate object, and so is a bakfiets, but because I pedal it, I bring it to life, and I become more alive. Before I became pregnant, […]

10

Dec, 2014

2015 Azor Carolina

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Azor Carolina, beauty, bicycle, dutch bike, urkai | Comments: 0

Hold onto your hats, because this is a stunner. Azor has come out with a white on white Carolina Omafiets, and it is up order, call us, or e-mail us at hello@urkai.com!

Inspirational Bicycle Quotes

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycle, bicycle quotes, inspiration, quotes | Comments: 0

Life is like riding a bicycle: you don’t fall off unless you stop pedaling. Claude Pepper (American Politician)

21

Nov, 2014

Black Friday Sale – Starts November 28

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: | Comments: 0

There is no better time to come in for a visit or to get some stocking stuffers! In-Store Demo SALE Bakfiets.nl Cargo Trike Reg. $3999 Now $3599 Onderwater Tandem (1 adult & 1 Child). Reg. 3295 Now $2999 Dutch Commuter 7 speed- one of each size – Reg. $1099 Now $899 New Azor 20″ Children’s bike. Reg. $649 Now $449 Free shipping on all in stock Bromptons! Huge Accessories Sale My Baskets – 50% off Basil – up to 40% Dutch Waterproof panniers – up to 50% off Axa Locks…Brompton…Brooks…and […]

13

Nov, 2014

School Drop off – by bike – in the Netherlands

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bicycles, commute, Holland, school dropoff, the Netherlands, transportation, travel | Comments: 1

While in the Netherlands, I had the unique opportunity to be invited by another Mum to observe school drop off. I was eager to see and be part of the massive bicycle commute, and see how my usual Canadian school drop off differed from the one my friend does daily. For this short bike ride, I borrowed a bicycle, and off we went at 8:20. I have seen traffic all around the world, but nothing quite like this one. My borrowed bike was a single speed, with rear coaster brakes. My brain, still […]

In Store FirstBike Giveaway

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: balancebike, draw, Firstbike, Giveaway, urkai, urkaibikes | Comments: 1

Yepp Jr. Bicycle Seat Review

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: Child seat, dutch bicycle, urkai, Yepp Jr, Yepp Jr. Review, Yepp seat | Comments: 0

As many of you know, we test all of the products personally before we decide to carry them in our store. It is a fun job, but someone has to do it! One of the products we tested recently was the Yepp Junior, which is designed for children from 5 – 10 years old, with a weight capacity of 20 -35 kg. Which is very similar to the Bobike Junior and Qibbel Junior seats we sell. For this test ride, we found ourselves in one of our favorite places Holland […]

The B&W Brompton Suitcase – Canada

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: B&W Brompton suitcase, Brompton, Brompton folding bicycle, urkai | Comments: 0

Want to travel with your Brompton? The B&W hard suitcase is a great option. Made specifically for the Brompton, the B&W suitcase is perfect for long journeys in the sky, sea, or train.

14

May, 2014

10 reasons why you will love a Bakfiets.nl Cargo bike

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: bakfiets, cargobike, Dutch Cargobike, transporting kids by bicycle | Comments: 0

SMILE! 1. Bicycle Therapy Imagine yourself riding around with your little ones in your own pedal powered convertible with your children up front laughing and learning as you ride along through your neighbourhood. With our hectic lives, it is not often that you can actually experience time standing still and being in the moment with your children. 2. Children’s Choice Your children, in the safety of a 3 point harness and strong marine wood box, always get the front row seat with plenty of room for their favourite toys, and […]

14

May, 2014

Pierre Laporte Photography meets Bee-Kissed

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: | Comments: 0

On the day we surprised Sarah Hatton with her winning Bee-kissed bicycle, a fabulous photographer was snapping away. We feel very lucky to share Pierre Laporte Photography photos of the bee-kissed bike with everyone. A very talented Ottawa/Chelsea area photographer, who has a gift , his website to come soon! If you are looking for a photographer to work with, you know who to look up! Sarah was our winner of design our next Dutch bike contest, with Bee-kissed! Between the colour, the name, there was a story that ran […]

14

May, 2014

Is your bicycle safe for child transport?

By: Kendra Davidson | Tags: | Comments: 0

We get a lot of questions regarding kids bicycle seats, and in many cases, we get photos of various bicycles and whether or not you can fit a bicycle seat on the bicycle. We never comment on the actual bicycle we don’t sell. Every bicycle is engineered or designed with a certain purpose in mind, and all frames have a weight capacity. Road bikes are built to be lighter, in order to go faster. Mountain bikes are built lighter with better shock absorption to go down mountains. They all have […]