Curbside Cycle began - not surprisingly – by the side of the curb, nearly three decades ago. Back then we were just a slightly legal tent, a variety of ever-changing locations, and a pretty clear idea about what was missing in the market. Our focus, from the beginning on, was the neglected city cyclist. At the time we were one of many ragtag operations across North America turning old road bikes into flat bar bikes, a trend the bicycle industry later turned into a bike called the hybrid. Around the same time the hybrid was developed we finally acquired storefront in the much desired Annex neighbourhood of Toronto. Sure, we moved a couple feet away from the curb, but we always remained Curbside, a store dedicated to that strip of road beside the curb that the city cyclist occupies.
Today, we're an institution in Toronto's Annex and a fixture in North America's rapidly emerging bike culture.
Frustrated with the market dominance of adrenaline performance bikes we began importing proven, stylish, and simple city bikes from Europe - starting a supply chain that now spreads across the continent. We are the first company in North America to bring real city bikes to the people. We imagined an all-inclusive barrier-free bike, a bike that is more like your car: comfortable, low-maintenance, long-lasting, and above all, something that is fashion forward - that keeps your clothing free of oil and grime. Hardly revolutionary, but then the best things usually aren't!
How do I install my bell?
Instructions are provided on the back of each bell box and available as a pdf. For more detailed instruction, see the bell install video. The most common error is when initially connecting the bell. Improper attachment prevents the bell from securely mounting and can lead to parts damage.
How long will my bell last?
Our bicycle bells include a promise to be the best now and forever. That means they guarantee them for the life of ownership. Should you ever find your bell isn't performing as expected or would like them to make it sparkle for you, you can just send it back to us for a complete factory overhaul.
How do I maintain my bell?
Here are just a couple pointers on bell care. Each is built to ring far longer than any bell you've owned before.
TIP 1: When the bells are assembled, they place a small amount of lubricant in the pivot. We've cycled the pivot tens of thousands of times, both dry and lubricated. The difference in wear is minor but just a drop of lube every year is a good idea.
TIP 2: We use stainless steel for most of our bell parts, but the Hammer and Dome use materials chosen for sound quality that will turn color and patina over time. This process is faster in coastal regions and wet weather. If at any point you want to restore some brilliance to your bell, any gentle metal polish will quickly deliver results. We even like using carnauba car wax, which is very gentle but cleans nicely.
TIP 3: Brass is a pretty soft metal. After impacting the Dome over a length of time, the Hammer can leave a little brass mark—more obvious on the black Domes. It's just a little surface deposit of brass and can be removed using a soft rag and metal polish to lightly buff out the spot.
How do I get replacement parts?
If something is missing in your bell life—perhaps the small or large metal band included with your bell—don't worry. We have more. Click here to visit our parts collection. Of course, if you need anything else, please email service@homedepart.com
