Hi,

My name is Winston Endall and I’m the Bike Guy. That’s a nickname I earned by being obsessed with bicycles and riding my bike 12 months a year for the last 20 years.  People of  Cambridge will be familiar with the guy in the bright yellow jacket riding around town in the middle of winter. I’m also the manager of the new Cambridge Braun’s location.

I coach cyclists and triathletes and dabble in racing myself when I can get around to getting in shape.  I specialize in anatomical bike fitting with a focus on increasing performance and reducing pain.  If you want to go faster, I can help you with bike fit, training, nutrition and equipment selection and set-up.

You’ll be hearing from me a lot as I’ve moved into the role of blog editor as well. In addition to information articles I will be blogging about my own journey from overweight and out of shape back to race form.  I just turned 40 this year and have committed to getting back into the shape of a few years ago when I raced and actually did well.

If you have questions about cycling, bike fit, training, nutrition, equipment or where to ride, send me an email at cambridge@brauns.com

We just wanted to take a minute

to wish you a Merry Christmas

We have appreciated your business over the past year!

 For some cyclists the riding season outside is now done.

For others, their rides take a little longer to prepare for.

 Let’s all be thankful for the bike rides we have enjoyed this year

Lets dream a little

as we anticipate our next bike ride.

It’s not going to be that long before we hit the trail and/or road again, is it?

MERRY CHRISTMAS

from the team at Braun’s in Kitchener, Guelph, Online and Ebay.

We understand!  You have this loved one that’s a cyclist.  They want a thingy for their bike that looks like, like … uh … well what does it look like any ways?   It’s a thing, for their bike, you know. 

YES quite likely we do.  or We’ll help you sort it out.

No Problem.  That’s why we are here.

If all else fails – we have Gift Cards that any cyclist will absolutely love to receive this Christmas.

Gift Cards from $10 to $250

Any size from $10 to $250 (cdn)

Or just come by for some advice.  We are glad to help.

Hey everyone,

Hope you’re all enjoying the frosty mornings and cool evenings that have quickly crept up on us. For some people, the first signs of snow and ice are the end to the riding season… they pack their gear away, store their bike in their basement and wait for the snow to melt before they get back out there. 

For others, the winter season offers a unique and enjoyable experience in the area of winter riding. Many people commute year round, and this group comprises the majority of the winter category. The smaller portion continue to ride through the winter for personal enjoyment, with the smallest portion continuing to trail ride year round!

No matter which style of winter riding you choose to participate in there are many factors that need to be carefully considered before doing so, choices such as clothing, gloves, footwear, and hydration are all vital factors in enjoying your winter ride. More importantly though, is making sure that your bike is up to the challenge. There is various maintenance that should be performed during the winter season, and I will cover these aspects throughout the season as the weather dictates. For today… I am going to focus on Studded Tires!

Studded tires are just that, tires with metal studs (can be made from various steels, carbite, etc) mounted in them to incresase traction, handling and control during the winter season. Similar to the concept of snow tires on a car, they also utilize a softer rubber compound to enhance grip on ice and frozen surfaces.  Studded tires are available in both 26″ and 700c sizes with various profiles to ensure fitment on just about every ride. There are various different styles of studded tires, from full stud, to partial stud, and I will help to differentiate between them.

Full Studded Tires have a what is considered a full studded pattern where metal studs are found on both the running surface (center of the tire) and the shoulders (the edges of the tire). The studs on the shoulders are to provide grip when cornering and the running surface studs provide increased traction for accelerating and braking. These tires are designed for more extreme riding conditions, and typically utilize 260-300+ studs per tire to provide the ultimate traction abilities. An example of a full studded tire is the Schwable Ice Spiker Pro, which is a heavily studded tire design for trail and extreme use.  

Partial Studded tires consist of either running surface or shoulder studs. They are designed to be used on predominately ice and predominately pavement respectively. Partial studded tires offer benefits for riders whose roads are normally plowed and salted and those who are always fighting with a road less travelled. These tires can be used in pairs, as well as in split sets (one drive tire, one directional tire).

Shoulder studded tires are desgined for those who commute on roads that are well maintained. They have metal studs on the edges to provide traction while cornering, but not reduce rolling resistance while on plowed surfaces. These tires are best for city commuters whose road is normally well maintained.

The 700c Schwable Snow Stud Tire is a good example of this.

In contrast, the centre ridge studded tire is designed for those riders whose road consists of that which is normally covered in ice. It has cente ridge studs that provide excellent traction during acceleration and braking. An example of this is the Schwable Marathon Winter tire is a good example of this.

It is important to note that many other different styles and manufactuers of tires exist, and that those listed only represent a fraction of those available. Partially studded tires can be used in matching and staggered pairs to tailor your style of winter riding.

No matter what, do not forget to adjust to your riding conditions, obey the rules of the road and always wear a helmet.

Until next time…

Always consider that the ability of the rider, greatly outweighs the capability of the parts.

Bryan!

It’s a funny thing…. I’m in our warm store daily, workin’ away, helping my fellow cyclists, and non-cyclists solve their problems. I’m finding gifts for “My brother, who has everything”. There’s the empty nester, who just wants a bike to ride to the store now and then. I’m engaged by the commuter who, while on the way to work…oh no!!! Has a flat!! In the next minute, I’m sharpening skates so the next “Sid” can be his, or her best in the tournament this weekend…… And it’s December.

 Aren’t we in your local, loyal, always there for you, bike store supposed to be fully in Hibernation mode??  I dare to challenge that!!!  The “OFF” season here at Braun’s, is just as, if not more, exciting than the hustle-bustle of May, and June. The variety of people, needs, and issues that come through the door this time of year, never cease to amaze me. It truly is the “off” season…. Think about it…

We’re fixing, getting those studded tires, and fenders on the bikes for the all season commuter. Selling Holiday bicycles, so the little ones can find their first bike under the Christmas tree. Aiding in the set up of the “ultimate” home training and conditioning center. Sharpening, customizing, and repairing skates. Getting the roof rack, and cargo box, for the car set up for Ski season. Helping the summer Triathelete find next year’s “winning ride“, assisting the next Lance find his ultimate, podium worthy ride ….and in the next encounter, I’m setting a family up for, what is promising to be a great Snowshoe year…

All this time, I’m spending every “non customer” moment spread sheeting, emailing, reporting, and ordering my way towards spring’s influx of new stuff. Planning what bikes, shorts, computers, and lights to buy, so that your cycling experience next April, can be the absolute best we can provide.  WOW!!!  Now that’s variety!!  It’s tiring, mentally taxing, and extremely challenging to keep up with!!…..and, I wouldn’t change it one little bit….

Welcome Winter!! Please bring your “Off Season” issues to us!  

We’re ready, and raring to go!  

I can rest in the summer right?

G -

Hard to believe it’s October already…….Almost time to put the bike away for the winter?    If your family is like ours, we are thinking less biking and more  hockey.  That’s right,  hockey season has started…….  Did you know that Braun’s does precision skate sharpening?  We’ve  been doing skate sharpening for over 50 years and now offer Conventional skate sharpening as well as the NEW state of the art FBV Blackstone system.  At Braun’s we have 2 distinct skate sharpening systems available.  We have the regular Conventional hollow ground system and the NEW state of the art FBV Blackstone system.    Basically the Conventional system is what’s been around for the past 50+ years.  The FBV system is a brand new patented system. 

If you want to improve your game – try our new Flat Bottom V (FBV) skate sharpening.  FBV technology offers you a much improved glide and increased speed while maintaining a superior keen edge, when compared to a regular sharpening.  The new cut provides a flat bottom to the skate blade for more glide, but has more distinct edges for the bite needed for turning and stopping.

If you would like further information on the FBV systemplease check out  http://www.blackstonesport.com.

 FBV and Conventional sharpening systems are available in both stores.   The cost for FBV sharpening is $8.50 plus tax and conventional sharpening is $4.43 plus tax.  You can also purchase a Skate Sharpening Card which has 10 Conventional or 5 FBV sharpenings on it for $39.99 plus tax.

Hey everyone!

Now I know that I am supposed to be discussing bike service techniques, and advice on how to get the most out of your bike components. However there are all these topics that I feel are crucial in order for everyone to enjoy riding even more! Once I knock the main ones off the list, I will discuss more service topics, and filter in my professional experience.

Today’s post is all about how to transport your bike!! Now… no matter what type of bike you have, or what vehicle your driving, there is a right and wrong way to transport your ride and I’m here to help you find the best way to move yours.

As always, we will begin with the basics and go from there…

You can either transport your bike inside your vehicle or on the outside. The preferred method is on the outside of the vehicle, as it helps to keep mud and water from damaging the interior of your vehicle, and it helps to keep from damaging the bicycles components.

However, if you must transport your bicycle inside the vehicle, do so with the drivetrain components facing upwards, and be sure to prepare the vehicles interior (with a blanket, or rug) to protect it.

The preferred way to transport your rig is on the outside using one of various styles of bicycle auto racks. In this category, there are three different styles: first, trunk mount racks, second, hitch mounted racks and finally roof mounted bicycle racks. All of which have benefits, and are preferrable for different styles.

Trunk Mounted racks, such as the Saris Bones 3 Rack (seen above) are an excellent option for people who occasionally transport recreational style bicycles, on multiple vehicles. The versatility of a trunk mounted rack is that it allows for use on multiple vehicles, and can be adjusted to fit vehicles of almost every style. Trunk mounted racks are capable of carrying anywhere from 1 to 4 bikes that are able to be mounted by the frame.
That is where trunk mounted racks are limited, as they require the frame to be hung onto the rack for transport, and will not accommodate small frame sizes, step through frames, downhill frames, or freeride bikes. Further, it is important to remember that the weight of the bicycles is being carried by the trunk lid, and transporting too many heavy bicycles in this manner can cause damage to the vehicle.

The next possibility for transport is to use a hitch mounted rack. These types of racks mount into the receiver on the vehicle and can carry bikes in either a hanging or platform fashion. The latter of which being the preferred, as it allows almost all styles of bicycles to be transported. A rack such as the Thule T2platform rack is compatible with both 1 1/4″ and 2″ receivers, and can transport from 2 to 4 bikes on a platform. The rack does not make contact with the frame, and secures the bikes using the wheels. This allows it to transport bikes with wheel sizes from 20-29″and any style of frame (from road to downhill). The platform style rack is also lockable, both the rack to the hitch, and the bikes to the rack, which allows you to ensure that your bikes are secure. There are few limitations to these racks, aside from the requirement of having a hitch.

The final style of rack which is good for securely transporting your rig is roof mounted racks. In this case, load bars are attached to the vehicles factory roof rack, or an aftermarket Thule fit kit is added to the vehicle to make almost any vehicle compatible with a roof style bike rack. Bikes mounted onto Thule load bars can be done so in either a fork mounted or upright position. The roof rack method of transport offers a variety of options, and many different units can be used together in an effort to transport a variety of bikes at one time. Fork mounted racks do not make contact with the bicycles frame, and mount to the fork and rear wheel. These racks are excellent as they do not contact the frame, but are not compatible with 20mm axles (found on downhill, dirt jumping, and freeride bikes). Upright racks can either attach to the frame, or can hold the bike via the wheels (an example is the Thule Sidearm Rack).

It is important to consider all factors when determining which style of rack is best for you. A key consideration is if you tow a trailer when transporting bikes (as this directs you towards a roof transport style rack) or if you constantly need to access the hatch of your vehicle…

Any of our sales associates at Braun’s Kitchener or Guelph locations can help to find the perfect rack for all your transport needs. Feel free to drop by the store, and we can further explain all the options to you!

Take care, and until next time, be sure to double check the straps!

Bryan

Hey everyone, my name is Bryan and I am one of the lead service technicians at Braun’s Kitchener location. Starting this week, I will begin posting on the blog as frequently as possible, discussing various mechanical, service, and bike related topics. I will try to cover topics in varying detail and explain any terms or phrases which may be uncommon.  When presented with the opportunity to post on the blog, I just could not refuse and I am excited to share my knowledge and experience with you through my posts. I have worked at Braun’s for my whole bike service career and have developed relationships with all different styles of riders. I know them all from; “weight weenies” to XC riders, to downhill racers and I take every opportunity I get to try a new style of riding. I don’t have a set plan or rigid structure for my posts, so if there are any topics you would like me to discuss, any new products you want me to feature, or any trails you would like me to review, just throw a comment up on the post, and I will try and address your ideas or questions in one of the following posts.

I guess I should tell you a little about myself, before I jump right into the bike specifics. I am currently a student, studying in Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo. I work at the shop part time during school terms, and full time during the summer months. Biking has been a passion of mine since a young age, and I have met many friends and developed many relationships through hitting the trails, or tagging along on a ride.

 During my spare time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, everything from camping and canoeing to hiking and riding. But on those lousy rainy days, there is nothing better than relaxing with a good book. Although riding everything from road to downhill, my preference still lies with cross country as it presents the most trails in this area, and still gets me out in the woods.

We all ride in the service department at Braun’s and when possible we all try and ride together. Sunday’s tend to work best for everyone because that is the only day the shop is closed, and having all day allows us to go for longer rides and push ourselves further. Riding with other people is beneficial no matter what skill level you are. Having other people to encourage you or talk to while on a ride can make it both more enjoyable, and more beneficial.

Here in central southwestern Ontario, Hydrocut and Puslinch Lake are my two favourite local trails, with Puslinch marginally edging out Hydrocut due to its high speed factor and gorgeous scenery. However there are many other scattered around the province, (particularly the northern region) which offer excellent rides and a variety of riding conditions.

It’s about time for me to prep the gear and hit the trails, I’m thinking hydrocut tonight… maybe see if I can better my speed through a few of the more technical sections on the trails.

Until next time, hope to see you out there, and keep a finger on the brakes: you never know what will happen!

When I agreed with Robert to do this blog, I thought “Oh Cool! A blog just for ME to tell the world.”  Tell the world all about all the great things that happen here at Braun’s. All the cool bikes, techie gadgets, super neat parts, and our awesome repairs… Then Spring broke. I really haven’t had 5 minutes to sit and think about what to write, let alone anything anyone would want to read. We’re busy as all get out, which is fantastic, but I have been getting “pressure” to contribute to the Blog. So here I am…. Finally getting done what I had said I would do a month ago (and on my day off no less). When I thought about what it was I really wish more of the public knew about us here at Braun’s, it wasn’t the bikes, parts, or gadgets. I mean they are great, and we do an amazing job of it, but there is much, much more to it.

It’s really about history and people. I thought about all the great people I’ve met over the years , how happy they are with the bikes we have helped them find, and how many of them have become quite good friends. I think of the great relationships that have resulted from people meeting here, I think at last count there were 6 marriages that resulted from in store meetings. I’ve really lost count of how many “first bikes” we have provided to little one’s in this area. We have even helped find a “last bike” for burial with a  very dedicated cyclist who passed on. Pretty special moments.  These great things happen every single day in this 85 year old business. We here on the “inside” watch them happen, we help them take place, and it does so often, we often forget how special they really are. We take it for granted sometimes, and we shouldn’t. These things are rare, very rare. We are just very fortunate to come to a place every day, that has so much rich history, and customers that span generations.

I helped a great woman just this past Monday who told me that her Grandfather had bought her very first bicycle from Braun’s in Kitchener when she was 5yrs old. She was now 70, and purchasing a cute little pink 12″ bike for her Granddaughter. I almost cried! Since she was 5 years old, 65 years ago, every single bike for her 4 children, and their extended family, had come from Braun’s. It was a $120 purchase and it made my year. 

So what’s next. More of the same gratifying experiences I hope. I can’t imagine they won’t continue, and I’ll cherish every single moment. History in business can be a double edged sword. It can hold a company back by being lost in the past, but it can also be a valuable asset if appreciated, cultured, and honored at every opportunity. I have to say that the Braun family is doing a fine job of respecting their storied past, all the while planning for and keeping a keen eye on the future.

There are big things ahead for us…. And I for one can’t wait to be a part of the history we are going to make. Won’t you join us?

Until next time…..

-Glenn

Seeing as it’s Winter in most of the country, and we are primarily a bicycle store, I thinks it’s fitting that we talk about Snow and your Bike.  It’s not a terrible thing to get snow on your bike….It’s just solid water. We get our bikes wet all the time in summer. So if you’re one of the hearty folk who continue to trail ride all winter…have at it. Lube your ride up, wipe it down periodically, and have a wail of a time. You commuters however,  are a completely different story.

Commuting in the winter is a bike destroying, part wearing, nasty for all parts mess. Hate to burst your bubble, but it’s true. There is nothing good about road salt for the cyclist or the bike. It gets in everything, destroy’s parts prematurely, ruins clothing, and tastes awful.

So what can you do to make it more bearable? Walk?….Drive?….Take the bus?….none of those options are open to the winter commuter. So here is my quick checklist for the winter hearty bicycle commuter.

Ride a piece of crap junk, or pay the price. If you ride your good bike, I guarantee you will be buying a new drivetrain in the spring…maybe more. Disc brakes, electronics, most fabrics and winter do not play well in the same sandbox.