How To Act In A French Restaurant...

Smile. Tomorrow Will Be Worse. Pt. 1

Mike Pike — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 15:30:17 +0000

While skimming through my photo catalog of 2011 I realized how many wonderful things I didn’t share with you all. Some date all the way back to the beginning of 2011 and some are a little more current. Walk with me… Jane and I have this ongoing dispute where we both think we’re better at something/anything than the other…for example, we go out for a little duckpin bowling and make a little wager on who will be victorious. In reality, the stakes are never pertinent. It’s more for bragging rights and ridicule. There’s this place in Fountain Square that’s called Action/Atomic duckpin bowling that a lot of us go to for beers and bowling tournaments with midget’s on the weekends. If you ever get a chance to go, walk around and check the place out… …you’ll start to realize how much history there is revolving around the place as well as the sport. I will say, design was done right back in the day. Plus, how can you not like ads like this? Who knew you could get a medal of valor for bowling a perfect game.

Fountain Square is on the verge of a major transformation and within the next 5 to 10 years I believe it’ll be in comparison to Mass Ave; Making Indianapolis one step closer to being a contender in the “Major City” game. Moving on… Miniature golfing is really an excuse to do something when you have no other options left. Plus, Jane beat me at duckpin bowling so I had to redeem myself in some way. Which I did. I would post more photos but let’s get serious…who really cares about fluorescent colored golf balls and windmills strategically placed to make hole 7 a difficulty rate of 9 out of 10. Next… I do a lot of promotion work for multiple promoters, djs, bands, etc. I had the pleasure of working with Indiana Jones & Crush Entertainment on something really really special at the Jazz Kitchen.

If you haven’t heard of Elzhi, please find 5 minutes out of your day to take a listen and be prepared to play it out for the next month or so.

My expectations were pretty high being that he was a part of Slum Village. Watching him perform with a live band made my expectations of any other hip hop artist even higher. The guy KILLED IT!!!!

There are certain events in people’s lives that open our eyes to new thoughts and perspectives…this was one of those moments. While in a trance taking it all in, I started to realize how much pull a culture can have unifying multiple races, creeds, and tastes no matter what the circumstances are. It was an amazing show and I have to thank Jones for letting me be a part of it!!! Let’s keep going…

We all have birthdays. Some are relevant and some we pretend to ignore. I find this photo extremely ironic—on one hand you have the 30 balloon looking extremely strong and full of life floating as high as the string will allow it. On the other, you have all its younger comrades inactive, dull and depressed. As much as I feel like the 30 balloon, I’m still pretending…

And being that it is such an irrelevant number, we celebrated anyways…

And what better way than with great friend…

Some I don’t get to see as much as I want…

And some I’m thankful to have around daily.

Gifts are always greatly appreciated but never do I feel comfortable accepting them. I wanted to share this one item with you all because of how much of a fanatic I am for this particular piece.

If you know me at all, you should be aware that my love for denim is somewhat sickening. It’s actually an addiction. Also, if you visit this blog once in a blue moon you should realize I love cycling. That being said, Jane really outdid herself on this one.

Rapha is a high-end clothing & accessory line designed for cycling. They have designed a pair of jeans specifically made for city riding. I’ve been wanting these for quite some time but the price is a little steep. Comparison to the Levi Messengers or and of Cadence’s collection these are top of the line. No need for doubling around the crotch in fear of blow-out…they loomed it specifically to resist any abrasion or deterioration. By far THE BEST RIDING JEANS out on the market right now.

Also added is the reflective logo up the right calf for roll up and safety precautions when riding in dim to dark conditions.

As well as the famous Rapha Pink bindings around both seams. This is starting to become more common due to fray and the competition of selvedge, it’s just really rare to find companies doing the inseams with any type of binding. If I go on I could be a sales rep for the company but instead I’ll just post s link for more details if you’re really interested.

With so much content, I don’t want to unload it all at once so I’m going to do multiple posts over that past year…stay tuned. Till next time, enjoy the ride!

Cadence x 686 Project: Rain

Mike Pike — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:05:08 +0000

I know I’m late on this, but this was too good to pass up. Rain kits have been more of a kitsch idea than a functional piece in the cycling community…having one can be somewhat effective in short commutes to and from work. 686 snowboard kits on the other hand are well worth the investment and surpass its objectives for wear! With Cadence’s new arrival to its shop I’m posting this for two reasons…functionality and slim fit . If you’re a rider you would understand how these two keys are important to any cyclist that rides more than a commute in the rain. I know, I know, the word functionality is a little vague, but watch the video—you’ll see. Although it is pretty pricy, I might just pick one up for the spring.

Dustin Klein of Cadence and Mike West of 686 go over some of the key features of the new Rain Jacket & Pant kit built specifically for cycling.

Using the technical knowledge and resources of 686, Cadence was able to produce the highest level of function and quality resulting in a fully waterproof Jacket and Pant built specifically for riding. At home in any torrential condition, concrete jungle to the red woods forest. This combination is fully waterproof, breathable and built to function in the saddle as well is look just as good out of the saddle.

Full zip rain jacket specified for riding / Fully welled seams / Waterproof breathable 3 ply body with subtle stretch for movement / Sealed zippers / Front pockets with mesh for venting / Articulated and extended arms / Cycling style drop back / Gripper elastic at bottom hem / Back pocket with sealed zipper / Zip side vents / Neoprene internal cuff extentions / Reflective detail through out / Athletic fit.

Full length rain pant specified for riding / Fully welled seams / Waterproof breathable 3 ply body with subtle stretch for movement / Sealed zippers / Cordura reinforment at seat and inside cuffs to reduce wear / Back pocket with sealed zipper / Loops for optional belt use / Reflective detail through out / Tappered fit at leg opening for riding / Wearable in and out of rain.

Doug Gigowski…

Mike Pike — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 03:04:12 +0000

There’s no better way of saying happy birthday than with birthday beatings. To one of my best friends, I wish you the best. Now let us get drunk tonight!

Yet, Despite The Look On My Face, You’re Still Talking.

Mike Pike — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 02:21:42 +0000

It’s been a month since we’ve last spoke and all I have is an email box of hate mail that has kept me steady and focus on my current ventures. Don’t fret, while trying to make that paper I had plenty of time to capture everyone’s insanity of what they call their life. So I’m back and How To Acts hibernation is over…let’s have some fun.

To give you a little overview of what’s been happening…I’ve been doing a lot of Branding, Marketing, and designing for a long list of companies lately. Every dollar made has been going to the greater good of my fashion design endeavor. That being said, I’m going to recap a couple little things I’ve been involved with that might give you something to do this New Year’s Eve.

Radio Now, Grey Goose and Sensu are putting together an extremely large party for the celebration of the new year…the whole Radio Now cast will be spinning in multiple rooms and Grey Goose will be providing some very nice VIP facilities. To purchase tickets visit sensuindy.com. If this isn’t your cup of tea…

…My great friend Action Jackson will be at Room 929 with a great selection of music. Multiple rooms with ”Over The Top” VIP lounges. This party will be insane…all I’m going to say is…”Open Bar Dude!!!” To reserve your tickets…Call 317-252-2600 select extension “2″ events.

I’ve been working with Hearthstone for months now…designing a full Marketing Campaign and Branding as well as graphic design work. They’re having their grand opening this Saturday aka New Years Eve and having a full party to celebrate. I’m really excited for these guys…besides Mo Joe’s, this will be the only other Coffee House that will provide alcohol…draft, bottle and liquor. A very very nice menu selection as well their own personal craft beer that they collaborated with People’s brewery. If you’re looking for something a little more calm…this would be one way to go.

If you haven’t heard of Local Eatery & Pub…I guarantee you will this upcoming year. I’ve become great friends with these guys and I have to say, the inspiration I get when talking to Craig Baker is something indescribable. He’s a savant when it comes to cooking and fine cuisine, and what they’re doing for New Years Eve will prove it. They found a holiday menu from 1894 by the Columbia Club in the archives of the public library and have recreated with Craig’s personal touch. Putting two extremely long tables in the middle of the restaurant, they’ve adapted the menu and paired it well with multiple drink to deliver something extraordinary. Being that it is on New Years Eve, they’ve supplied 4 different flights of champagne as well as music from The Innocent Boys. If you want to experience a unique New Years Eve…this would be my first recommendation. Call 317.218.3786 to reserve seats.

How To Act In A French Restaurant x Karmaloop Hookup

Mike Pike — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:00:32 +0000

So with it being Cyber-Monday I thought I would try to help everyone out. Karmaloop and myself hooked up to give you guys some good deals when shopping through Karmaloop and Plndr. For the record, I’m not trying to sale you anything or hustle you out of your money. I was out with some friends the other day and was asked where I purchased a certain garment. I started to think, why not try to get you guys on a new fashion tip.

No, but seriously, if you’re not familiar with Karmaloop, it’s an online retail store for street wear and things of the sort. Plndr is pretty much all the back stock that Karmaloop hasn’t sold, so hey sell everything for cost or under, unfortunately it’s a members only site and unless you want to wait and see if they’ll accept you which could take a grip (grip = eternity) let me put you on that invite only list and get you going.

Click here for the members only invite to PLNDR!

Once you’re on, they’ll hook you up with crazy deals!!!

Ok, now that I have that out of the way…let me explain how my rep code works – When chopping at either karmaloop.com or plndr.com, during your checkout use the rep code Howtoactfrench for a minimum of 10% off your total purchase. If this is your first time using the Howtoactfrench rep code with Karmaloop you’re automatically given 20% off your total order. This rep code never express and can be used on multiple orders. Get an extra 1% off when used with a Karmaloop promo code.

Oh…and you don’t need that certificate… I just wanted to design something. If you have any questions or need any help don’t hesitate to email me. Enjoy all your online shopping…and till next time, enjoy the ride.

I Didn’t Say It Was Your Fault; I Said I Was Blaming You.

Mike Pike — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:40:57 +0000

So I’m going through all my photos trying to clean out all the bullshit and take out the trash. While in the midst of my fall cleaning I started seeing a reoccurring pattern of photos that I haven’t posted yet and seemed only ideal that I corralled them all into one post.

I don’t care if you’re a Hoosier or a foreigner, deep down we can all agree that Indiana has only so much to offer. Living in the midwest where ideals are primarily based off of church and state and people find safety in repetition…culture is somewhat lacking. More and more, I start to realize that it isn’t really Indy that keeps me here but the people who I’ve met, the friends I’ve made and the ones I consider family.

I’ve met complete strangers…

…And made great friends…

…enjoyed comfort foods…

…in the comfort of family…

…relaxed with beauties (As well as Qwyatt and Joe)…

…and beasts…

…cooked with amazing people…

…and celebrated for amazing people…

…inspired to eat new things…

…with inspiring people…

As trite as it may sound, don’t take your experiences for granted. At the end of the day they’re who you are and why you’re here. Till the next time, enjoy the ride!

Cranksgiving 2011

Mike Pike — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:31:02 +0000

It looks like the Ben’s came through again with their second annual Cranksgiving alleycat scheduled for this Sunday (Nov 20th). Registration will be held at Military Park starting at 2pm giving everyone enough time before the race starts at 3pm. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, entrance fees are $5 as well as 5 non-perishable food items. All non-perishable food items will be donated to Gleaners Food Bank of Indianapolis. All cash will be split between the top three. This is the only alleycat I’ve seen here in Indy that has been designed for charity. I encourage you all to go if not for anything but to help feed Indy’s poverty. While you’re there thank Ben and Ben for putting on an amazing race…because I can guarantee that shit will be super fun!!!!

Monster Mash 4 Results

Mike Pike — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 02:29:09 +0000

So it’s been almost two weeks since Monster Mash and I’ve been swamped with work so I apologize for not having this up sooner!!! I still have some prizes to give out, that I forgot to give out night of as well as some prizes that showed up on my doorstep post race. I need to clarify a couple of things with some specific people and then I’ll post up more prize winners, so stay tuned. As for the MM4 results…

Ben Morrow – 370
Tool – 310
Jamison – 290
Doug Gigowski, Cole Wallace- 280 “Tie”
James – 275
Aaron Ochoa – 260
Michael Bechtel – 245
Ian McPhee – 240
Shawn Wolf – 235
Joe Persinger, Scott Harris – 230 “Tie”
Zach McBride, Matt Madson – 225 “Tie”
Travis Collins – 200
Amanda Scott – 180
Corey Collins – 160
Andrew – 155
Bryce – 145
Carlos – 140
Ben, Bundy – 125 “Tie”
Steve D – 115
Josh Condon – 105
Christina – 100
Ben & Kaela – 80
Nic Wagner – 20

If you raced and don’t see your name on this list it should be obvious I never received your manifest. Hit me up if you still have your manifest and care to be on this list.

Soooo…I really had no photos from the night due to all the responsibilities. But….Dano posted up at the group home and got some great shots!!!

Yes…that’s a real tattoo with the abbreviation MM4 aka Monster Mash 4. We had the idea to use a tattoo parlor as a checkpoint and Irish Ink was down for it…

They had the choice of either MM4 or this cute little bike…I’m almost certain most kids got both!

Antiquing seemed to be one of the goto’s at the Group Home…

Even Steve Jobs got antiqued!!!

For the record…everyone had the option to turn down any wildcard offered to them. I’m not sure much was turned down.

Oreo and company ran the debauchery…I love this guy!

I love this guy too!!!!

And this guy TOO!!!

My favorite brothers!!!

My favorite couple!!!

I feel like the girls were doing just as wild shit as the boys, if not more!

Amanda and Christina got their hair did!!!

I want to thank every individual person that had to do with this years race!!! Bryan Wyatt if it weren’t for you I don’t know what I would’ve done. The after-party was wild and I thank you for the hangover!!! Action Jackson and Oreo, you really came through!!! Slater, thank you so much for the hookup at the Murat!!!! I owe you! Cody, you were a real life saver!!! I wasn’t sure how I was going to handle that checkpoint by myself!!! Plus you’re the best company!!! If I can get the damn axis finished I’d like to go down to Brown County with you!!! Trapp, I know I might have got on you a little about the prints, but thank you so much for the posters! To Dano and The Mayor, all the photos look amazing!!! A huge huge huge thanks to Irish Ink for the tattoos!!!! You guys went down in the history books for that one! For everyone who partook in the event – you’re the reason why it went so well!!! Till next time, enjoy the ride.

4th Annual Monster Mash!

Mike Pike — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 03:03:05 +0000

Within 24 hours the city streets of Indianapolis will be taken over with riders trying to win this years Monster Mash. This race has evolved over the past 4 years and I’m extremely proud of this one. With over $1000 dollars in prizes and our after-party being held at the Murat Theatre you can say we’ve progressed to a whole new level since our first Monster Mash.

Speaking of the after-party…All are welcome to the festivities. If you’re racing you will obviously get in for free…we’ve also set up multiple bike racks for all the cyclists on the New Jersey Stside of the Murat. If you’re coming out, please enter on the New Jersey St and look for signs to the Amber Room. Also, make sure you have your ID and if you’re bringing a bag I’m just going to say we’ll be checking for any libations. Costumes are strongly encouraged!!! Depending on schedule we’ll be having our awards ceremony anywhere between 11:30pm and 12:30am.

Back to the race…I’m going to clarify one major detail here…last years race was ran in a format where the more fucked up shit you did (including cheating) the better your chances were on winning…THAT WAS LAST YEAR! I GUARANTEE YOU THAT THIS YEARS MONSTER MASH IS DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE TO HAVE FUN, IF YOU WANT TO PISS ON YOURSELF OR EAT SOME FUCKED UP SHIT…THAT’S ON YOU! It’s almost impossible to cheat…and my checkpoint workers WILL NOT favor anyone no matter if they’re fucking or if they’re strangers!

ALSO, this year is based on a score card. No money will be involved. Points increments are 5pts and 10pts. That’s it! You can only get up to 10 pts at each check point(even if you try to do some really nasty shit) which makes the playing field extremely even. That being said…here are your checkpoints:

1. GROUP HOME – 1659 Central Ave, 46202

2. POLO COURTS – 12th & Alabama (Under the bridge)

3. IRISH INK -876 Mass Ave, 46204

4. NORTH END OF THE CANAL – 337 W. 11th Street, 46202

5. VETERANS MEMORIAL PLAZA – 550 N. Meridian St, 46204

6. CONVENTION CENTER PLAZA – 10 S. Capitol Ave, 46204

I want everyone to know that the amazing guys at Irish Ink hooked up this year with their facility and there are opportunities to get free tattoo work within the play of the race. That being said, we would really really really encourage and appreciate it if you do happen to get a tattoo during the race please tip respectfully!!!!

I will explain everything in better detail tomorrow during pre-race rules & questions before the race. Now for prizes…over my years of riding I’ve met a lot of amazing people and have been fortunate enough to gain their friendship and respect…to all our sponsors, you guys are nothing less than amazing!!!

Chrome hooked us up with the Senator roll top bag and a hip pouch. Big thanks to Hank!!!

I don’t know if I’m just really simple when it comes to wheels but when talking to Velocity I just wanted a set of Black Deep V’s. I feel like that’s such a universal color that everyone would be happy with. MD hooked me up with a set of graphic wheels with the monogram V in multi-color, every hipsters dream.

Also have two Velocity shirts. MD, you always come through, thank you!!!

Vittoria hooked it up with 2 White Zaffiro II tires. I know half of you kids need new tires…

Dustin is on a whole other level now…Cadence has come a long way and has become a staple in most messengers wardrobes. Always an inspiration! Vinnie I’m still waiting for some bibs son!!!!

Jeff from All-City always hooks it up. This year we were fortunate to get a set of their NEW Sheriff Hubs. Soak it in…these things are raw. THANK YOU SO MUCH JEFF!

Since I’ve been working on my line, I’ve gotten to meet a lot of people in the garment industry…primarily street-wear, Mishka has been a strong stepping stone for fixed riding in the street-wear community. I really am a fan of the side-pouch. Extremely well put together!!!

I really really wanted to get Phil Wood in on this years race. What you see here is a brand new 110.5mm stainless bottom bracket. The square tapers are for campy cranks and the cups are British threading. Probably my favorite prize for the race!

The people at Seagull have to be the nicest people in the Messenger community. Someone will be getting a $50 GC this year…

…And a custom Tool bag. Sarah, you’re a saint!!!!

iMinusD are some wild kids. We got a shit ton of sticker packs plus this Tank and some water bottles!!! Next time I’m in Cali Ryan, let’s go for a ride!

Fyxation always is down to support!!! Thank you Nick for keeping up with me!

Besides Cadence, Outlier is always up to throw product my way. Even though I’ve never met her, Rachel is the nicest girl I’ve met on the internet!!!! Thank you for everything!

What you see here is…$150 overhaul on your bike. Perfect for those winter riders. Joe’s has been such big resource for us over the years…I don’t know how we can ever repay them…if you don’t win this, go and spend your weeks paycheck to get your shit right!!! Thank you so much Shawn for being the reason why I do these races…if it weren’t for you I don’t think track bikes would have seen as much street time as they do in this city!!!!! Oh, and by the way, if you happen to win, you’re not getting this.

We’re still waiting for Nitto and Cinelli packages, I’m not sure if they’ll be here by tomorrow, but if they’re not…I’ll make sure who ever wins those prizes get them first thing when they arrive!!!!! I also have added a couple of gift certificates from my own line which will be unveiling FINALLY this winter. We’re giving away a custom Roll-Top bag designed by you and myself as well as shirts and jackets. Pretty stoked on that as well!

I hope to see a lot of you tomorrow!!!! And if not, I can guarantee you’ll hear all about it for the next couple of months! Till next time, enjoy the ride!!!!!!

Don’t Talk About Yourself Here; We Will Do Plenty Of That When You Leave.

Mike Pike — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:17:45 +0000

As I make time for How To Act, I start looking through the rolls and rolls of film I have and start to realize this summer was pretty sick.

If you didn’t have a chance to attend the Wild In The Streets exhibit…here’s a recap.

Bikes!

…And more bikes!

The exhibit displayed Indy’s track bike and fixed gear culture primarily over the past five years. It’s become somewhat of a phenomenon due to the popularity and exposure fixed gear has received as of lately and how much money the industry has invested in product design and placement. As for Indy, cycling has received a whole new look and a lot of attention from city officials who’ve been putting effort into adding more and more bike lanes and making sure riders have safe passage to their work and home. Although, I can guarantee the owners of these bikes would still ride either way.

Tools Bianchi will always be one of my favorite rides. Not just because the chances of you finding a Roger are almost impossible…but that he’s still got it! And by it, he still has that messenger mentality…for him it’s not just commuting or taking a joy ride, it’s a necessity for him. For him a vehicle would be a last last last resort.

This is what happens when drivers don’t give a shit. Notice the seat stays. Doug was lucky it wasn’t any worse.

Bryan’s polo bike. The photos came out really good!!!!

Another one of my favorite bikes!!!! Ben’s Pista…nothing fancy. Simple. Perfect.

Some of Shawn’s handy work with the welder. Custom trophies made out of old bike parts.

Kellar did a hell of a job with the edit, especially with how much limited time he had. Just waiting for the bastard to put it up on the net.

The race was pretty gnar. 3 manifest that covered pretty much the whole city. A great turn out. Got some coverage from NUVO as well has local TV. Hopefully it gave a good look to the public who wasn’t aware of what we all do. Till next time, enjoy the ride.