FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

WHO IS CYCLE CATS?

Cycle Cats is a grassroots lifestyle brand and promoter of the bicycle movement. We believe in the bicycle as a viable method of transportation for commuting, lifestyle and recreation. Every bicycle trip counts, from grocery shopping and visiting neighbors, to multi-day touring adventures. Our products help to take you there by carrying your belongings efficiently and in style. We choose materials for their durability and timeless aesthetic. This does not always mean lightweight or “fast”.

Cycle Cats also promotes cycling through community building events and learning. We offer Intro to Bike Camping workshops and camping trips. We also host no-drop local adventure rides around Sacramento. We are always learning and eager to pass that knowledge on and to get more butts on bikes!

OK, BUT WHO IS CYCLE CATS??

Cycle Cats owner and founder, Brandon Cannon, is a passionate cycling nut! Always a tinkerer, he’s worked as a mechanic in various industries, including bicycles. After a hiatus, Brandon fell back in love with cycling around 2015. Shopping for a cycling cap turned up fairly boring results, all plastered with corporate logos. Starting with a low-cost sewing machine and a pattern from Dill Pickle Project(Dill Pickle Gear), he made his first few cycling caps. Not long after, the first SnackBar feedbag was born and landed under the Christmas tree for his partner Megan. Eventually an upgrade to a true industrial sewing machine led to more product development, and to where we are today!

Brandon, Owner and Founder of Cycle Cats

WHERE ARE CYCLE CATS PRODUCTS MADE?

Each and every Cycle Cats product is designed, tested, cut, and sewn right here in Sacramento, CA, USA. We NEVER outsource designs or manufacture. Each item is hand made and may have minor cosmetic variations. We are not a factory, but artisans constantly practicing our craft.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RECEIVE MY ORDER?

We strive to ship any in-stock items within 3 business days. Any out-of-stock item or custom order will typically ship within 2-5 weeks of order. We will discuss your needs at the time of order and inform you accordingly.

HOW CAN I CARE FOR MY CYCLE CATS BIKE BAG?

Basic care includes proper installation and use, as well as occasional washing. Ask us if you’re not sure how to install your bag, and look for future blog posts on this topic: SnackBar feedbag, Frame bags.

Cycle Cats bags are made with water resistant materials and should stand up to years of proper use. All bags should be hand washed, never in a machine, and never with heat. Cordura nylon should be cleaned with cold water and a mild soap. A drop of dish soap per gallon of water is sufficient. Gently scrub with a soft brush, rinse with clear water and air dry.

Waxed canvas should be cleaned with cold water, gentle scrubbing, and air dried only. DO NOT USE SOAP on waxed canvas, as this could remove the water resistant finish. It is normal for the canvas to darken and collect dirt with use. This is part of the natural aging process, and what gives waxed canvas a unique finish, much like leather. Wax finish can be reapplied using Martexin finishing compound, available in our web store.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT WAXED CANVAS.

Waxed canvas is a timeless fabric, popularized in the early 20th century by sea merchants. Applying oils, fats, or wax to cotton canvas allowed sails to catch wind more efficiently, and coats to shed water and wind. Today we have access to more “modern” fabrics such as Cordura nylon(plastic) and polyester(plastic), but nothing matches the classic aesthetic and function of waxed cotton canvas.

At Cycle Cats, we strive to make a product that will last a lifetime, and that begins with material selection. Waxed cotton canvas is more abrasion resistant than nylon, will not degrade in UV light as fast(although colors may fade), and gains a classic patina similar to leather when it darkens and wrinkles. The wax finish can also be reapplied to renew water resistance, unlike nylon which has a single useful life. Martexin refinishing compound can be purchased through our web store HERE.

We currently source Martexin brand waxed cotton canvas in a limited selection of colors. Martexin canvas is dyed and finished in the USA, and is the highest consistent quality material that we have found. Occasionally we finish our own canvas with locally sourced natural waxes for one-off products.