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Sunday, November 4, 2007

The Lightest LikeaBike: The Spoky


WHERE TO BUY: WeeBikeShop- Quality bicycles and equipment for growing families, since 2007.
All wooden LikeaBike models share many features in common, and there are some features which distinguish them and make each unique. The thing that sets the LikeaBike Spoky apart is basically one thing: the wheels. Of all of the wooden LikeaBikes, this is the only model with the "real" bike look of spoked wheels. Otherwise, it has the same frame, fork, handlebars, and saddle as all of the other wooden models. This enhancement seems to save some weight- the LikeaBike Spoky is only 7.5 pounds, making it the lightest. Here's a listing of all the features offered by Spoky, with it's one distinguishing feature high lighted:
  • Frame built from two CNC shaped pieces of 10mm thick baltic birch veneer core plywood (9 plies)
  • Fork built from a solid piece of CNC shaped 19mm baltic birch veneer core plywood (15 plies)
  • Inflatable 12" rubber tires with Schrader valved inner tubes
  • Wheels built from epoxy coated steel with welded maintenance free spokes.
  • Removable and washable padded cloth seat cover (red or blue standard, other colors, including leather are offered separately)
  • Seat height adjustable to four different positions (12" to 16") for fast growing toddlers
  • Limited steering range for extra safety (what happens when front wheel turns too far? Bad things! Ouch.)
  • Impact proof rubber hand grips (is Junior dropping the bike onto it's side? No worries!)
  • Suitable for use indoors and outdoors (tires will not mark your floors)
  • Handcrafted in Germany using wood grown in sustainable forests (FTSE certified?)
  • Shipped fully assembled except for handlebar, which is applied with two simple screws
  • Compatible with the optional LikeaBike Hopper handlebar basket and the LikeaBike trailer wagon
  • Overall dimensions: 14" wide x 21" high x 33" long
    As with all wooden LikeaBike models, the frame is constructed of two durable layers of 9 ply birch plywood, shaped a lot like a skateboard. The felt which lines the joint between frame and fork is color coordinated with the saddle (unless of course, you change the seat cover to another optional color.. even leather)

The cotton saddle cover has a foam insert which can be removed [before] machine washing. It's held in place using four points of hook/loop Velcro.
One thing about the spoked wheels which is a real advantage is that it's much easier to inflate the tires. On wooden models, there is a cut-out in the wood for inflation, but we have found that not every bicycle pump will fit in the opening. No such worries with the Spoky.
An aggressive tread pattern lends itself to puncture resistance.
There is a steel pin driven through the top of the fork (concealed by the handlebars) and through the frame and back into the fork. Not only invisible, but maintenance free as well.
The tool required to remove a wheel is always included with your LikeaBike.
Sixteen spokes per wheel, all welded tight and maintenance free.
Nice close-ups pictures of the wheel hubs and spokes.
The wheel 's hub is a maintenance free sealed bearing system.
The handsome grips of our demo bike is adorned with hippos! We're not sure if they vary the grips which are included with the different models, but the Spoky seems to have the toughest, thickest grips of them all.
Some safety recommendations which serve to inform you of the best ways to protect your child from injury.

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