BELLS AND PROPSTANDS
Prop Stands are one of the first accessories people purchase when getting a new bike. There are many different styles and some are specifically made for a certain range of bikes. Coloured prop stands are by far our most popular. They come in a range of colours to personalise your bike. Of course you can always have black or silver too.
The vast majority of prop stands fit on the frame in between the rear wheel and the chainset. This allows the stand to take an even amount of the bikes' weight. Some that fit on the rear axle can allow the bike to topple over if not set up properly as all the weight is in front of it. Prop stands generally come with a large plastic foot so that it can take the weight of the bike when used on soft ground like grass. Most prop stands will fit any bike with front suspension (hardtail) or no suspension (Rigid). Many front and rear suspension bikes don't have the required frame tubing to clamp the prop stand to.
Some of the brands that use their own prop stands are Scott and Huffy. Most Huffy's come fitted with the prop stand built into the frame but the Scott prop stands fit near the rear of the bike with 2 bolts that thread directly into the non drive side seat stay. These stands fit their Sportster, Contessa and Aspect range of bikes and are usually available through Scott bike dealers only.
Cycle Bells and Horns are still considered a kids product for a bike. However it is now a legal requirement that your new bike comes fitted with a bell. This became part of the British Standards that all bikes have to pass so that they are a safe item to sell in Britain. Other standards include reflectors, braking performance and chain guards to name but a few.
Although it may feel a little old fashioned to have a bell on your bike you can have some fun with a little customising. Bells come in all shapes and sizes from football shaped to spinning ballerinas. Some even come with a built in compass for when you decide to just follow your nose!
The tones also vary across cycle bells and horns. Many have a pingy sound but you can still get the more traditional ring ring bells and you can even get glockenspiel bells! These really do sound good.
Horns on the other hand are mainly used on children's bikes. Themed ones from Disney and cartoon TV programmes are available to encourage your child to ride their first bike. Oh and to annoy you…! ☺
Of course the main reason to have a bell or a horn is courtesy on the road or bike path. It is far more polite to ring a bell to let others know of your presence than to shout out. You almost always get a better response too.
So give your bell a try. Don't just take it off the second you get your bike. You might like it…..