Most forms of artwork wouldn't hold up well to someone jumping on for a ride, but an A-train Cycle made by Alex Cook will send you down the road in high style. His handbuilt frames have drawn praise everywhere from Sweden to the North American Handmade Bicycle Show. From his Minneapolis shop, Cook builds road, cyclocross, touring/city and mountain bike frames. The custom-made frames are pricier than a factory-built bike, but a worthy investment for serious riders. It's a sample of what's available in a crazy-talented local build scene that also includes Anderson Custom Bicycles, Appleman, Bob Brown, Curt Goodrich, Chris Kvale, Peacock Groove, Prairie Crow, Speedhound and Wyganowski. atraincycles.com
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More From Star Tribune
More From Variety
Variety
Critics' picks: The 9 best things to do and see in the Twin Cities this week
Critics' picks for entertainment in the week ahead.
The 5 best things our food writers ate this week
Lefse-wrapped Swedish wontons, a soothing bowl of rice porridge and a gravy-laden commercial filled our week with comfort and warmth.
The 5 best things our food writers ate this week
The season for cardamom bread, comfort food and a dish as bright as Bentleyville's holiday lights.
Variety
Critics' picks: The 14 best things to do and see in the Twin Cities this week
Critics' picks for entertainment in the week ahead.
The 5 best things our food writers ate in the Twin Cities this week
Massive burritos, brothless ramen, cake muffin and a cup of Dayton's nostalgia.