Bicycle Shop

The History of Cannondale Bicycles

Cannondale is one of the most recognized and respected names in the cycling world today. Known for its pioneering designs, cutting-edge technology, and top-tier performance, the brand has consistently set the bar for innovation in the bicycle industry. But how did Cannondale get its start? What makes this iconic brand so special? Let’s take a ride through the history of Cannondale bicycles and explore how they transformed from a small camping gear company into a global cycling powerhouse.

The Humble Beginnings: 1971 – A Camping Gear Company

The story of Cannondale bicycles begins in 1971, but not in the way you might expect. Cannondale was originally founded as a camping gear company by Joe Montgomery and Ronald J. Ochs in Wilton, Connecticut. The company made high-quality outdoor equipment, including tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags, which quickly gained a reputation for their durability and innovative designs.

However, as the 1970s progressed, the popularity of mountain biking began to rise, and Montgomery and Ochs saw an opportunity in this emerging market. The rugged, off-road riding style required durable, lightweight bikes that could handle rough terrain. Inspired by the growing demand for mountain bikes, Cannondale shifted its focus from camping gear to bicycles—and the rest, as they say, is history.

1983: The First Mountain Bike – A Game Changer

In 1983, Cannondale took the leap into the bicycle industry with the launch of its first mountain bike, the ST500. This was no ordinary mountain bike—Cannondale made its mark by being one of the first companies to use aluminum for its bike frames, which was a revolutionary step at the time.

While other manufacturers stuck with traditional steel frames, aluminum offered significant advantages in terms of lightness, strength, and rigidity. The ST500’s aluminum frame made it much lighter and more responsive than its steel counterparts, offering an edge in performance, especially on rugged mountain trails.

This bike became the starting point for Cannondale’s ascent in the bike world, setting the company apart as a true innovator. Aluminum would go on to become one of the company’s trademarks, allowing them to consistently deliver bikes that combined both durability and performance.

1980s-1990s: Expanding Innovation in Mountain Biking

As mountain biking gained popularity throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, Cannondale continued to push the envelope with its innovations. The company’s bikes became known for their lightweight frames, precision engineering, and superior performance in demanding conditions.

In 1991, Cannondale introduced the SM600, one of the first bikes to feature a suspension fork—a major advancement for mountain bikes. Prior to this, mountain bikes had rigid forks, making rough trails a challenge for riders. The addition of a suspension fork allowed riders to tackle more technical terrain with greater comfort and control, making the SM600 a standout model in the industry.

Cannondale continued to innovate, and by the mid-1990s, the brand was firmly entrenched as a leader in the mountain bike market. They also began to expand their range of bikes, entering the world of road cycling with the Cannondale R400 and offering more touring and city bikes for a broader audience.

1990s – 2000s: The Lefty Fork and Carbon Fiber Revolution

One of Cannondale’s most iconic and controversial innovations came in 2000, with the introduction of the Lefty Fork. The Lefty was a radical departure from traditional front suspension forks, as it was single-sided rather than the standard two-legged design. This design not only made the fork much lighter but also increased its strength, stiffness, and responsiveness. Riders also found that the Lefty fork offered improved steering precision and shock absorption.

Despite its unusual appearance, the Lefty fork became a signature of Cannondale bikes and was adopted by mountain bikers and trail riders alike. Its revolutionary design still remains one of the brand’s most recognizable features, and it continues to evolve and improve with each new model.

As the 2000s rolled on, Cannondale continued to embrace carbon fiber technology, moving into the world of road bikes. Their SuperSix and Synapse road bikes combined lightweight frames, aerodynamic designs, and power transfer efficiency—all characteristics that allowed Cannondale to become a serious contender in road racing. The SuperSix Evo, in particular, gained a reputation as one of the lightest and most efficient road bikes on the market.

2010s – 2020s: Pushing Boundaries with New Technologies

Entering the 2010s, Cannondale wasn’t content with simply resting on its laurels. The company’s commitment to innovation continued with the introduction of new bike categories, including gravel bikes and e-bikes.

In 2013, Cannondale launched its Topstone series, a range of gravel bikes designed to handle a mix of road and off-road conditions. The Topstone quickly became a favorite among cyclists looking for versatility, comfort, and the ability to explore a variety of terrain.
Cannondale also entered the growing e-bike market, launching electric versions of their popular road, mountain, and commuter bikes. The Cannondale Synapse NEO was one of the brand’s first electric road bikes, designed for riders who wanted to enjoy the benefits of pedal assist while tackling longer rides or steeper hills with ease.

The Future of Cannondale

As we look to the future, Cannondale continues to push the boundaries of design, sustainability, and performance. Their innovative spirit remains alive, as they work to create more efficient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly bikes.

In recent years, Cannondale has also embraced sustainability, making efforts to reduce their environmental impact. Their new manufacturing processes focus on reducing waste, using recycled materials, and producing bikes with longer lifespans, helping to make cycling a greener option for riders worldwide.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

The history of Cannondale bicycles is a tale of constant innovation, from its roots as a camping gear company to becoming a powerhouse in the world of bicycles. From their first aluminum frame in the 1980s to the introduction of the Lefty fork and cutting-edge carbon fiber designs, Cannondale has always been at the forefront of the cycling industry.

Cannondale’s commitment to quality, performance, and design has earned it a loyal following among cyclists of all types—from casual riders to competitive athletes. And with their continued focus on pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability, Cannondale is poised to remain one of the most influential bike brands for years to come.

So whether you’re riding on mountain trails, cruising on gravel roads, or racing on the open road, there’s no doubt that Cannondale’s legacy of innovation will continue to shape the cycling world—one ride at a time. 🚴‍♂️

The History of Trek Bicycles

When you think of top-tier bicycles, one name that immediately comes to mind is Trek. For over 40 years, Trek has been at the forefront of the cycling industry, known for producing everything from high-performance road bikes to innovative mountain bikes and versatile e-bikes. But how did Trek become the powerhouse brand we know today? What were the key moments that shaped its journey from a small workshop to a global leader in cycling?

Let’s take a ride through the history of Trek Bicycles, and see how this iconic brand evolved into one of the most trusted names in the cycling world.

The Origins: A Dream and a Workshop (1976)

The story of Trek begins in 1976 in a small workshop in Waterloo, Wisconsin. Richard Burke, a former high school teacher and cycling enthusiast, founded Trek with a simple but ambitious goal: to create high-quality bicycles that would offer both performance and comfort at an affordable price. Burke, alongside his business partner Bev Edwards, set out to design and produce handcrafted bicycles in the United States.

At this point, Trek was a small operation with just a handful of employees. The company’s first product was a high-end steel-framed bike designed for serious riders. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design, Trek quickly gained recognition in the cycling community. In the early years, Trek focused on producing steel frames, which were known for their durability and comfort, laying the foundation for the brand’s reputation for building strong, reliable bikes.

1980s: Expansion and Innovation

By the 1980s, Trek began to expand its offerings and solidify its place in the cycling market. The company started producing a variety of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and touring bikes, appealing to a broad spectrum of riders. But it was 1985 that marked a pivotal moment in Trek’s history with the introduction of the Trek 500 series.

The Trek 500 was one of the first mass-produced aluminum-framed bicycles, which was a significant departure from the traditional steel frames that had dominated the industry for decades. Aluminum was lighter, stiffer, and more resistant to corrosion than steel, making it a game-changer for performance and durability. Trek’s move into aluminum frames was a crucial step toward becoming an industry leader in the production of innovative, lightweight bikes.

During the same period, Trek began sponsoring professional cyclists and teams, further cementing its commitment to performance and innovation. Trek’s involvement in competitive cycling not only helped improve the brand’s visibility but also allowed the company to test new technologies in real-world, high-pressure environments.

1990s: Mountain Bikes, Road Racing, and a Commitment to Innovation

The 1990s was a decade of significant growth for Trek, as the brand expanded its reach and embraced both road racing and mountain biking as core segments of its business. As mountain biking surged in popularity, Trek seized the opportunity to create a line of high-performance mountain bikes that quickly became favorites among serious riders.

In 1993, Trek introduced the Y-Frame mountain bike, a groundbreaking design that featured a unique Y-shaped frame for increased stiffness and strength. The Y-Frame gained significant attention for its innovative design and soon became a standout in the competitive mountain biking scene.

The 1990s also saw Trek step up its involvement in road racing, with the brand sponsoring teams and athletes. In 1994, Trek made a major impact in the world of professional cycling when it became the official sponsor of U.S. Postal Service Pro Cycling Team. This partnership eventually led to one of the most iconic moments in Trek’s history when Lance Armstrong won seven consecutive Tour de France titles from 1999 to 2005 on a Trek bike.

This partnership helped Trek solidify its reputation for building high-performance road bikes capable of competing at the highest levels of the sport. Armstrong’s success on a Trek bike introduced the brand to a global audience and was instrumental in bringing Trek into the mainstream.

2000s: The Rise of the Carbon Fiber Revolution

As the cycling world continued to evolve, Trek responded with an unwavering focus on innovation. The company embraced carbon fiber, which was becoming the material of choice for competitive cycling, thanks to its lightweight, strength, and stiffness. In 2004, Trek introduced the Trek Madone, one of the first road bikes designed entirely with carbon fiber.

The Madone quickly gained a reputation for its aerodynamic efficiency, lightweight frame, and smooth ride—perfect for competitive cyclists and amateurs alike. The success of the Madone solidified Trek’s position as a leader in the road bike market and showcased the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology.

Trek also continued to develop mountain bikes, introducing the Fuel EX series in 2003, a versatile full-suspension mountain bike designed for cross-country and trail riders. The Fuel EX’s design emphasized a balance between comfort and performance, making it a popular choice for riders looking for an all-around bike that could handle a variety of terrains.

2010s: E-Bikes, Gravel Bikes, and Expanding the Brand’s Reach

As cycling culture evolved in the 2010s, Trek continued to expand its lineup with new categories of bikes that catered to the changing needs of cyclists. The rise of gravel riding and the adventure bike movement prompted Trek to introduce its own line of gravel bikes under the Checkpoint name. These bikes were designed for cyclists who wanted a versatile ride that could tackle both pavement and off-road conditions with ease.

In the same decade, Trek embraced the growing popularity of e-bikes, launching its Allant and Verve+ lines. E-bikes, which use electric motors to assist with pedaling, have opened up cycling to a wider range of people, including those who may have difficulty riding traditional bikes due to age or fitness levels. Trek’s e-bikes offered riders the chance to enjoy cycling with less effort, making them a hit in urban commuting and recreational cycling.

Throughout the 2010s, Trek also made significant strides in sustainability and environmental impact, working to reduce its carbon footprint and support initiatives that promoted eco-friendly transportation options.

2020s: Trek Today and the Future Ahead

Today, Trek Bicycles continues to be a global leader in the cycling industry, offering a wide range of bikes from road and mountain bikes to e-bikes, gravel bikes, and urban commuters. The brand is committed to pushing the boundaries of design and technology, ensuring that their bikes meet the needs of modern cyclists.

Trek’s continued success can be attributed to its long-standing commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The company remains one of the most recognizable names in cycling, trusted by amateur and professional riders alike.

In addition to building world-class bicycles, Trek has become an advocate for cycling culture, supporting events like Trek 100 and Bike to Work Week, and encouraging more people to get on bikes for fitness, transportation, and recreation.

As technology continues to evolve and cycling culture grows, Trek’s focus on innovation and inclusivity ensures that it will remain at the forefront of the industry for years to come.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

The history of Trek Bicycles is a story of vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings in a small workshop in Wisconsin to becoming a global leader in the cycling world, Trek’s journey is a testament to the brand’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of cyclists while staying true to its roots in quality and performance.

As Trek continues to innovate and expand its offerings, one thing is certain: the legacy of Trek Bicycles is far from over. Whether you’re a competitive racer, a casual rider, or someone just starting their cycling journey, Trek has proven itself to be a trusted partner in every pedal stroke.

From road to trail, gravel to e-bikes, Trek has truly earned its place in the cycling hall of fame. 🚴‍♂️🌍

Why Buying a Bicycle at a Local Specialty Bicycle Retailer is Worth It

When it comes to purchasing a new bicycle, the options can feel overwhelming. Big-box stores and online marketplaces may offer convenience and sometimes lower prices, but they often come up short in providing the personalized service and expertise that can make a huge difference in your cycling experience. That’s where your local specialty bicycle retailer shines. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newbie, buying a bike from a local shop offers benefits that go far beyond just picking out a bike and riding away. Here’s why it’s worth supporting your local bike shop (LBS) and investing in a quality, properly fitted bicycle.

1. Expert Guidance and Personalized Service

One of the biggest advantages of shopping at a local bike shop is the access to knowledgeable staff who are passionate about cycling. Unlike general retailers, bike shop employees are typically avid cyclists themselves, and they’re equipped with the expertise to help you find the best bike for your needs—whether you’re looking for a high-performance road bike, a rugged mountain bike, or a comfortable commuter bike.

Local bike shops take the time to ask about your riding habits, goals, and preferences to help recommend the right bike, components, and gear for you. They’ll take measurements, assess your riding style, and ensure that your bike fits you perfectly, which is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. The right fit can make all the difference, and bike shop staff can guide you through the process to ensure you’re riding in a position that’s comfortable and efficient for you.

2. Quality and Selection You Can Trust

When you buy a bike from a local shop, you’re usually choosing from brands that are known for their quality and performance. Specialized bike shops typically stock bicycles that are designed for specific types of riding, whether it’s competitive road racing, trail riding, or casual cruising. These brands often undergo rigorous testing to ensure durability, performance, and safety.

In addition, many local bike shops offer bikes that are assembled by experienced mechanics, which ensures that your bike is properly tuned, safe, and ready to ride. Big-box retailers or online purchases may save you money up front, but there’s a chance that the bike won’t be assembled with the same level of precision, and you might have to deal with assembly issues or poorly adjusted components that can affect performance.

3. Support and Maintenance After the Sale

The relationship with your local bike shop doesn’t end once you ride away on your new bike. One of the biggest advantages of buying locally is the after-sales support you receive. Many local bike shops offer free or discounted tune-ups within the first few months of purchasing a bike, ensuring it’s running smoothly and that any minor adjustments are taken care of.

Beyond that, your local shop becomes a trusted place to return for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. Whether it’s a flat tire, a worn-out chain, or a full overhaul, the mechanics at a local bike shop know your bike and will treat it with the care and attention it deserves. Plus, many local shops will give you honest advice about when something needs fixing or replacing, helping you avoid unnecessary costs and ensuring the longevity of your bike.

4. A Proper Fit: The Key to Comfort and Performance

Anyone who’s ever ridden a bike that wasn’t properly fitted can tell you that it’s no fun. Poor bike fit can lead to discomfort, aches, and even long-term injuries. At a local bike shop, they prioritize getting you the right size bike and adjusting it to your body. This goes beyond just adjusting the seat height—bike shops ensure that every aspect of the bike, from the handlebar height to the pedal position, is aligned with your body’s proportions and riding style.

Many specialty shops also offer professional fitting services, which can include adjustments to your bike’s geometry or adding components that make the bike more comfortable for you. This kind of personalized attention is hard to come by when buying from a chain store or online.

5. Supporting Local Business and the Cycling Community

When you shop at your local bike shop, you’re doing more than just getting a bike—you’re supporting a local business that invests in the cycling community. Local bike shops are often involved in local events, group rides, charity rides, and races. They’re places where cyclists of all levels can gather, exchange tips, and make lasting friendships.

Additionally, local shops are more likely to have a vested interest in promoting cycling advocacy and the improvement of cycling infrastructure in your area. By supporting these businesses, you’re contributing to the growth and development of cycling in your community and helping keep cycling culture alive.

6. Customization and Upgrade Options

Another benefit of buying from a local shop is the ability to customize and upgrade your bike. If you want to add new handlebars, a more comfortable saddle, or higher-quality wheels, the staff at a local bike shop can provide recommendations and install these upgrades for you. They often have access to a wider variety of parts than larger retailers and are happy to help you make your bike truly your own.

If you ever decide to get into a new type of cycling (for example, switching from road cycling to mountain biking), your local shop can guide you through the transition, helping you select the best gear and accessories for your new adventure.

7. Warranty and Protection

When you purchase a bike from a local retailer, you’re often buying from a shop that offers strong customer service warranties and protection plans. If anything goes wrong with your bike, local shops are generally more willing to work with you to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s a frame defect or a warranty issue with a component, the personal connection you have with the shop owner or staff can make a big difference when it comes to getting things fixed.

In contrast, big-box retailers or online shops might require you to deal with impersonal customer service or navigate complicated return procedures. Local shops, with their focus on customer relationships, are more likely to stand behind the products they sell and ensure your satisfaction.

8. Cycling Advice and Education

The best part of buying from a local bike shop is that they’re more than just a place to buy a bike—they’re a resource for advice and education. Whether you’re looking for tips on bike maintenance, the best trails in the area, or guidance on improving your riding skills, a local shop can provide invaluable knowledge. Many shops host classes, events, or group rides, giving you the chance to learn from experienced cyclists and expand your cycling network.

Local bike shops also often have the latest information on cycling trends, product releases, and innovations in the sport, so you can stay informed about what’s new and exciting in the world of cycling.

Conclusion: Why It’s Worth It

While online shopping and big-box retailers may offer convenience, nothing beats the value of buying a bike at a local specialty bicycle retailer. From personalized service and expert advice to a proper fit, maintenance support, and a sense of community, a local shop is an investment in your cycling experience. By supporting these businesses, you’re not only getting a higher-quality bike, but you’re also investing in the health and growth of the local cycling culture and ensuring you’ll have a trusted partner for all your cycling needs for years to come.

So, next time you’re in the market for a bike, skip the online search and head down to your local bike shop—you’ll be glad you did!

When spring 2020 hit the season’s start was more of a whimper than a bang. The Covid ‘19 coronavirus variant changed many things for people all over the world. It forced people to change the way that they lived and reassess what was important to them.

During this time there was understandably global turmoil not just regarding quarantining and keeping people healthy. Supply chains were broken, factories shuttered and everyone waited to see what would happen next.

It seems like that should be all in the rear view mirror by now. People have returned to work. Factories have restarted production and supply chains have been repaired, or have they.

Post 2020 world is a different place than it was before. Production bottlenecks created by lack of raw materials can have far reaching effects. In the bike industry in particular, a shortage in carbon fiber has thrown some component manufacturer’s production back. 

On top of all of that, people all over the world started to fall in love with their surroundings again as traditional means of entertainment were temporarily closed. In parts of the US national parks and wilderness areas were seeing a critical overload of tourists even during the heart of the pandemic. In Early 2020 bike sales were up 120% industry wide. Outside of the restrictions it was the strongest year in decades for the cycling industry.

Without getting into the rights and wrongs of mass temporary migration and the effect that influx has on the local population especially during a pandemic, I would point out that this is also a cause of the bike and bike component shortage. 

Small stocks of available bikes at the start of the pandemic lead to an increase in valuation on the resale market. This increase in value of tangible assets during a marked downturn in the financial prospects of much of the population led to a speculative boom.

If you could get a bike you could often resell it for more than you paid for it. Actions that would have gotten you flamed on social media in the past were now greeted with private message bidding wars.

More people were outdoors. More people wanted to ride. More people were looking for bikes, and at the same time bike shops were waiting on stock, and when it has trickled in it is devoured just as quickly as they can unbox it.

So while it may seem strange that another riding season is upon us and these problems persist, it is not so different than any other market bubble. While this one might not pop as aggressively as a real estate market crash, we will get back to a time when bikes, and parts become available and not subject to speculative buying. Just be thankful it’s not still TP in short supply.  

Bike racks make going almost anywhere with your bike easier and safer. With so many diverse options it is not hard to find a rack that fits your needs and adds some convenience and style while doing it. Roof Racks, Receiver Hitch Mounted, Trunk Mounts and Tailgate Pads they all have their time and place and what you choose will depend on what you drive and how you want your bike carried on your vehicle.

What do you want though? With so many choices it can be overwhelming to decide what works best for you. Make no mistake about it bike racks are an investment and if you choose one that doesn’t do what you need it can be an expensive mistake. 

So first thing, before you even start shopping around for that new Thule roof rack you want or Kuat hitch mount rack, make sure you know what your bikes need. For some racks you will just need to know what tire and rim sizes you want to be able to carry, for others you will need to consider frame attachment points and axle size/ spacing. Knowing the relevant specs ahead of time will save you time and potential aggravation.

Racks that can be mounted on your car without a receiver hitch or hardpoint mounting a roof rack come in various types. The old style trunk mount rack has seen some updates but with cars increasingly seamless many just don’t work well. One exception is a different take on temporarily mounting. Using suction cups SeaSucker makes mounts that can be used on all vehicle types. They have an interesting take on how to do this and years of positive reviews, but their radical style makes them an acquired taste. If you want a high end roof rack that you can switch between cars seamlessly this might be the choice for you.

Multipurpose roof rack systems from companies like Thule and Yakima have been around for generations. They can be configured to carry many different load types, and most importantly can be set up to carry two or even three bikes in some cases. They are stable at high speeds and over long distances. Even though they hold your bike up high it tend to be a safe place, that is unless you forget about your bike and drive into your garage. Imagine totalling your bike and your car, thankfully for me when I made that mistake I was riding BMX that day and only tore a grip and scratched my brake lever perch. 

Receiver Hitch Mounted Racks come in many shapes and sizes. The most popular of these in recent years have been the tray style ones where the bike’s wheels stay on and are tensioned into place by a bar that goes over the top of the wheel. Tray style racks can often hold a wide range of tire widths and rim sizes. One of the benefits of this style is also its ability to hold many different frame types. As suspension frames have gotten more complex it can be difficult to mount them to any style of rack that attaches to the frame. With increased use of carbon fiber there is even more reason to not want to be clamping frame tubes.

One of the main drawbacks for receiver hitch mounted racks is that they stick out behind your vehicle. Any accident from behind is likely to mean that your bikes are totaled, but roof racks have problems too as we’ve discussed, so it is always important to remember that your bike is there.

The last style “rack” I want to cover is the tailgate pad. A lot of riders might look down on the tailgate pad as basic, but if you have a truck it doesn’t get much better. Downhiller have used tailgate pads for years for shuttle runs and transporting their heavy rigs. A good tailgate pad will keep your bike secure and organized even when driving through rough backcountry, while also working just as well on long highway trips. Tailgate pads can even provide unexpected security if you can mount some anchor points in your truck for and anti theft chain or cable.

No rack is really secure though. It is best not to trust security to a rack. If you need to leave your vehicle unattended your best bet is to put your bikes in the vehicle, take them with you, or find somewhere else to secure them indoors. Bike thieves can act quickly and with the increasing value of today’s bikes, they unfortunately have more incentive than ever before.

Hopefully this gives you an idea of what racks are out there and their relative benefit. If I had to pick one I’d probably say that even after years of having roof racks, I would seriously consider a receiver hitch mount rack like a Kuat.

If you are not crashing you are not trying hard enough. That probably isn’t the type of quote that new cyclists want to hear when they are trying to find their way. While it is true, in time if you want to become great you will have to overcome your fears and yes crash sometimes to learn important lessons. Lets go over some basics that help to ensure that new cyclists become veteran cyclists who will share their experiences to help our sport continue to flourish.

The bicycle industry has done a great job of keeping the operation of increasingly high tech bikes relatively simple. Even so there is still a learning curve. At first it is important to keep rides short or lower intensity. This gives you a chance to build muscle memory so when things get more difficult or technical you are more likely to be able to approach it with confidence.

Bike fit is often overlooked by new riders. If you don’t know how your bike should fit there are numerous resources you can use to get it dialed in. Youtube videos, groups like Lee Likes Bikes, or professional fitters can all give you tools and knowledge to take your riding where you want it to go.

Covid restrictions have changed the current landscape of group activities, but outdoor exercise with proper precautions is still a great way to stay healthy. When you are starting out try to ride with people who are at your level and/or experienced patient leaders. Few things help you grow as a rider like having appropriate challenges from riders who are at or near your level. Bonus if you can do that with an experienced leader who knows how to let you ride at your own pace. When you don’t have to worry about directions or getting lost you can be free to learn to be more at one with your bike.

Bike demos and Demo days are your best friend. It can be intimidating to show up to a shop or riding area to demo a bike or companies’ lines of bikes. These days aren’t made for professional riders though, they’re made for you, the new rider. Bike demos are the best way to get the feel for numerous different bikes and riding styles. You never know what you might get on and fall in love with. I’ll never forget the first time I saw a pre production Rocky Mountain ETSX. It had Easton RAD Bi-Oval Tubing and Grey Flames. I was in love, and when disaster took my Jamacian Gold Klein Adept from me later that year I knew just what to replace it with.

In all the excitement of starting or getting back into riding it is really easy to overdo it. Some of you, and you probably know who you are, are going to push your limits physically and technically. I get it as does anyone who has experienced the quiet thrill of pulling off something that you had no business trying. That’s all part of riding, part of any new sport, but remember if you get hurt it can limit your growth and could even take you away from riding for a time.

If you are primarily a road rider please be safe, obey traffic laws, and keep the rubber side down. When offroad is more your style you are more likely to push control to it’s limit. If you want to keep it relaxed and in control then you need to spend time developing bike control, but if you want to really improve your skills then you need to learn to crash.

It all comes back to if you are not crashing you are not trying hard enough, but I will qualify that by saying crashing does not mean getting hurt. No matter what kind of bike you ride you can learn alot by putting flat pedals on and learning to corner, bunny hop and at least do small jumps. Flat pedals make crashing safer, you can just jump off if you get in trouble. Flat pedals also teach you how to move the bike properly, if you think you can bunny hop, but can only do it when clipped in then you can’t really bunny hop.  

Cycling is a tremendously diverse sport even if you have been doing it for years there are always new things that you will learn. Take it slow, be safe and remember most of all cycling is about having fun. 

Bicycle Lights, To See or Be Seen

Bicycles are a great mode of transportation. They can get you where you need to go and help you have fun doing it. Lights can play an important part in ensuring that you get the most out of your bike safely.

There are many different types of bike lights, and at first the options can seem overwhelming. The most important thing to keep in mind is the type of riding that you do.

If you mainly ride on the road at low to moderate speeds then one of your biggest concerns is going to be a good indicator light facing backwards so traffic can see you from far back, this can be important even during the day because it will increase your visibility and give drivers more time to react safely. A low or moderately powered handlebar mount “headlight” to illuminate your path is a great addition and is important if you are going to be riding at night on unlit roads. For road riding a handlebar mount light is the safest as looking up into oncoming traffic with your helmet mounted light is akin to high beaming the drivers and could seriously disorient them.

If your focus is on getting rowdy offroad and you want to light up the night for your midnight shuttle runs, neither of the lights mentioned above are going to do much for you. You would probably want a combination of lights, but both of them facing forward. You might even want them to be as powerful as your budget allows. For most offroad night riding this is not necessary. Using a combination of two forward facing lights, one on your handlebars and one mounted on your helmet, you can create depth, consistently illuminate where you are headed, and always have a spot light shining where you are looking.

Personally I have found 2 Nightrider 750 lumen lights to be enough for anything I’m going to be doing offroad, including shuttle runs, but if you really feel the need to light up the night then there are brighter options. 

The current state of bicycle light technology is impressive. Gone are the days of needing to carry multiple bulky batteries that you had to treat with the utmost care just to make it through one night ride. Modern lights are compact and powerful, rarely would you need more than a light with an integrated battery to get you through whatever conditions you face short of a 24hr race. On top of that modern lights are so compact that carrying an extra for an emergency comes with minimal weight penalty.

No matter what type of riding you do one of the best ways to make the most informed decision when buying lights is to talk to other riders who do what you want to do. If at all possible try to experience what different lights offer. Your local bike shop is a great resource for this type of information and they can often connect you with like minded folks. It is always great to have more community to help you make informed choices and progress through your riding.

Riding at night opens up riding opportunities that aren’t available in many people’s busy schedules. Even more night riding is a whole new experience. Your senses are restricted and there is a strange and peaceful calm that has to be experienced. Like anything that gives you opportunities to get outside and play, bike lights can improve the quality of your recreation and life. As a bonus they make the best flashlight you’ve ever had…

Why a proper fit helmet from a professional is important

Your new bike is ready for its maiden voyage. You have everything perfect. The right ride setup with the right people. Today is going to be epic. This isn’t the time when most riders think about their helmet.

That is a problem in the cycling community, oftentimes we make do with the protective equipment that we have instead choosing to upgrade for style and performance. With that increased performance potential, you need improved protection.

Helmets are often an afterthought. After spending thousands of dollars on a new bike purchase it is easy to try to save money where you can. When I think about helmets though, I’m always reminded of what the oldtimers would tell me about riding motorcycles in my youth. “If you’ve got a $10- head then you can wear any helmet, but if you value your brain you’re going to need to spend some money.” Prophetic words that have proven true and saved my life multiple times. Turns out those old timers were onto something.

Like shoes, helmets are made for a shape. In this case the head. Heads come in all shapes and sizes, and thankfully helmets do too. If you have the wrong helmet for your head or your riding style the results can be catastrophic. 

Proper helmet fit is essential for it to protect you as designed. Most bike helmets are made to live through one serious crash ONLY! When they have been damaged they need to be disposed of as the foam structure can be damaged even if you cannot find it on inspection. Once the foam structure is compromised, the helmet is no longer safe.

Bike shop professionals can assist you in the process of finding a helmet that will fit your head type, and provide you with the protection that you need for your riding style. With technology constantly improving protection and performance, they can also educate you about new options on the market.

If you have already had your helmet fit to you by a bike shop professional and you don’t know if a new helmet would benefit you yet, then ask. Your local bike shop professional is there to help you get the most out of your ride. Helping their customers to ride safely and stay healthy is their concern. Even if you didn’t buy your helmet there, many bike shops will still inspect your helmet to ensure it is right for you, and if not assist you in finding what you need.

Helping everyone is a great way to build community and create new customers. Local Bike Shops know this as well as any business, and have the added benefit of being a fountain of knowledge about local riding and riders.

Need a helmet with MIPS? Not sure if your cross country helmet will cut it at the local lift assisted mountain? Having trouble finding a helmet that doesn’t seem to rub your head wrong on long rides? These are all questions that you are going to find lots of opinions about online. While it may be tempting to take the advice of an anonymous person online if it supports you saving a few bucks, those potential savings come with risk. If that risk is the health and safety of your brain, maybe you should think twice before clicking on Buy Now.  

This isn’t a blog post about economics and the importance of the Local Bike Shop. Many riders have already made up their mind about how and where they are going to spend their money. Playing it smart isn’t always about finding the best deal, or the cheapest NOS helmet. Making sure that your brain is outfitted with the best possible safety equipment for your riding style is pretty smart in my book. In any sport we have to trust the professionals and prepare for the worst so we can perform our best.

In case you are wondering, MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It has been proven to reduce brain trauma by decoupling rotational forces on impact. Sounds trick? Maybe it is time you talked to your LBS professional. They would be happy to help you find the helmet that best fits your unique riding personality. Keeping you safe, keeps our riding community strong.