Everyone knows that the “go to spot” on the interweb for bike info is Sheldon Brown’s site. Even after his passing it is THE PLACE for anyone who needs to know anything bike related. However, once you’ve tackled the basics and need to sink further into nerdtopia it’s time you check out Velobase.

Velobase is the 2007 brainchild of John Fischer and it’s grown to be quite a robust toddler. Consider it a visual dictionary of classic bike parts. Almost like that wik-a-thing-a-majig all the kids like.

Here’s how it works. Users join and upload photos of classic parts. Then title and tag them by Manufacturer, Date, Gruppo, Component type, etc. Other users can add info, update, correct, etc. Just like that other encyclopedia place, but with big pictures, not as many words, and ONLY BIKE PARTS!

Need to know what the difference between a first gen c-record derailleur and a second gen one is. Go to Velobase. Curious what a Genestoux Criterium C is? Velobase. Need some decent pics of a Pinarello Headset? You guessed it, Velobase.

John has also put together an amazing collection of headbadges, tools, jerseys and catalogs.

So check it out, browse some stuff and contribute. It’s grown to be an amazing site in the last two years, I look forward to what it will be in two more.