Safety Check

Basic Bicycle Safety Checklist:

Bolts/Quick release levers

Check that bolts and/or quick release levers on the seat, seat post, handlebar stem and axles are tight.

Headset

Check that it turns freely and doesn’t rattle.

Brakes

Check that the nuts on the brakes are tight. Brake pads should not touch the rims unless you are squeezing the brakes. Brake levers should stop at least 2.5 centimetres from the handlebars when the brakes are fully applied.

Axles

Check bearings for looseness by shaking the wheel side to side. Make sure quick release levers are clamped tight.

Shift Levers

Derailleur levers should move easily only when shifting. A screw or butterfly nut or similar device lets you adjust the movement of some types of shifter levers.

Derailleur Movement

On derailleur bikes, try shifting through all your gears and make sure your derailleur does not throw the chain off the sprockets.

Tires

Inflate to the recommended tire pressure as shown on the tire.

Spokes

Check for and replace loose, bent or broken spokes.

Wheels

Make sure wheels are centred in the forks and not touching the brake blocks. Check the rim for side-to-side wobbles and up and down hops by watching the wheel spin past the brakes or frame. More than half a centimetre of wobble is cause for concern.

Coaster Brakes

Check that the bolt holding the brake arm to the frame clip is tight.

Helmet

             Make sure that your helmet meets safety standards (e.g. Snell, CSA, ANSI,   ASTM, BSI, SAA, CPSC) and has not been damaged in a collision.

Keep your bike secure

Always carry a quality bicycle lock when riding and always lock your bike and quick release items like your wheels and seat to something solid.

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Over the next number of blogs we will cover Safety Equipment (Sizing, Safety Check, Helmets, Visibility), Handling Skills, Riding in Traffic (Where, Intersections, Signs and traffic signals, Dealing with trucks and buses), Obstacles and Road surfaces, Cycling and the Law and Electric Bicycles.  Stay tuned for the next few weeks as we cover some important information to keep YOU safe while cycling!

Watch for” CYCLING SKILLS (Safe Cycling)  Part 3 – Safety Equipment -Helmets” in the Blog on Monday, August 2nd.

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The above information is taken from the Government of Ontario website and addresses “Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling”.  For more information please see http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling-guide/index.shtml .

Time has been flying by this summer and it seems like only a matter of days before the rides will become less and less frequent. Keeping that in mind, I figured sharing one of my favourite rides with you while you still have time to check it out would be an awesome idea for this post.

Many of my rides are rushed and hectic (seemingly like most other things in my life) and I am looking for the best bang for my buck when it comes to short sessions after work. I’m sure many of you are in the same situation and may find my advice helpful. For times like these I choose the Hydrocut. The Hydrocut is a network of trails in the west end of Waterloo that traces the edges of the Waterloo Region Waste Disposal Facility (Dump). The “Cut” as it is called by many (including Pat in his riding preference debate post) is known for tight, fast, singletrak and trails of varying difficulty.

There are many entrances to the Hydrocut, the most popular of which being the Glasgow Road entrance (or Glasgow Side). This entrance is often crowded and the trails leading in and out of this area tend to be busy and in many ways slow going. This can be especially annoying when wanting to head out for a short sprint! Heeding this advice, I suggest taking the Snyders Road entrance (The part of the trail referred to as “The Pines”). This entrance is a small parking lot off of Snyders road which tends to be used far less frequently. This means when you are looking for a quick sprint there will be fewer riders in your way and you can focus more on your ride than the others around you.

When heading into the trails from this entrance, you will run along a downhill doubletrack and around a bend. This section of the trail is unnamed . The next section will be a steep climb that banks up and to the right (challenging even the most experienced riders). After the ascent, riders will start onto a trail called “Jessica”. This is a short connecting trail that will lead you to “The Bootleg Trail” another short trail to get you into the heart of the pines. From this point, your options vary depending on the length of you ride you want to go on. My personal route is to shred “Adam’s Run” ( a longer more challenging trail) then head around the back corner of the Pines. A flowing section which consists of: “Sweet Street, Jake’s Attack, Jake’s Breakaway and then Dead Camel Bend.” The return trip requires a bit more climbing, however it encourages you to push yourself through the end. Running back through “Twister” gives you a taste of all styles of riding. From this point, the most exciting way back out is to retrace your steps on “Jessica”, then shoot the berm section of Kamikaze; directing you back onto the doubletrak you rode in on.

This network of trails tends to be less tapped than the Glasgow section and time is not wasted getting to this section from the Glasgow entrance. If you are up for an adventure, head out and don’t take a map: eventually you will find your way or a friendly face on the trails who can direct you to another fun section. If you are the safer type: print one of the various maps I have attached (with thanks to the Waterloo Cycling Club, Region of Waterloo and The University of Waterloo) and take it out with you for your adventure.

Satellite Map:

http://rcn.uwaterloo.ca/gps/Hydrocut_Trail_Map.JPG

Rendition Map:

http://waterloocyclingclub.ca/node/46

Unlabelled Trail Directory:

http://waterloocyclingclub.ca/sites/default/files/WCCTrailsMap.pdf

Until next time…
Keep the rubber side down and hope to see you on the trails!

Bryan

Sizing Your Bike

There is a variety of bicycles on the market to choose from. Whether you’re choosing a touring, sport, mountain or hybrid bicycle, it should fit properly, making it easy to control and comfortable to ride.

Check these important fitting points on your bicycle.

Frame Size

Frame size varies by type of bicycle, but as a general rule, you should be able to stand flat-footed over your bike’s frame (top tube) with two to five centimetres of space. For a woman’s frame bike, when sitting on the seat, the base of the seat should be at least five centimetres above the seat tube when the tips of both feet touch the ground.

Seat and Handlebar Height Adjustment

Seat

Positioning your seat properly will help make your pedalling more efficient and reduce strain on your knees. To ensure your seat is at the correct height, sit on the seat with the balls of your feet on the pedals. At the bottom of the pedal stroke, your legs should be almost straight with your knees slightly bent.

Handlebars

In a normal riding position, your weight should be evenly balanced, allowing you to rest your hands lightly on the handlebars. You can adjust the tilt of your seat and the height of your handlebars to achieve a good balance of weight.

Your handlebar stem and seat post must be at least five centimetres into the frame. Both usually have a mark that indicates the maximum extension point. Longer seat posts and stems are available if you need them.

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Over the next number of blogs we will cover Safety Equipment (Sizing, Safety Check, Helmets, Visibility), Handling Skills, Riding in Traffic (Where, Intersections, Signs and traffic signals, Dealing with trucks and buses), Obstacles and Road surfaces, Cycling and the Law and Electric Bicycles.  Stay tuned for the next few weeks as we cover some important information to keep YOU safe while cycling!

Watch for “ CYCLING SKILLS (Safe Cycling) Part 2 – Safety Equipment -Safety Check” in the Blog on Thursday, July 29th.

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The above information is taken from the Government of Ontario website and addresses “Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling”.  For more information please see http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling-guide/index.shtml .

Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling

 Over the next number of blogs we will cover Safety, Equipment (Sizing, Safety Check, Helmets, Visibility), Handling Skills, Riding in Traffic (Where, Intersections, Signs and traffic signals, Dealing with trucks and buses), Obstacles and Road Surfaces, Cycling and the Law and Electric Bicycles.  Stay tuned for the next few weeks as we cover some important information to keep YOU safe while cycling!

The Ontario Cycling Association
3 Concorde Gate
Toronto, Ontario M3C 3N7
416-426-7017

The Ministry of Transportation acknowledges the Ontario Cycling Association, the Ontario CAN-BIKE Committee, City of Toronto, City Planning and the Toronto Cycling Committee for their contributions towards this publication.

Canadian Cycling Association

Cycle Canada

Toronto Cycling Committee

Citizens for Safe Cycling

For more information about cycling safety, contact:

MTO Info General Inquiry:

1-800-268-4686 or (416) 235-4686 in GTA

TTY Users:

1-866-471-8929 or (905) 704-2426 in Niagara

Website:

www.mto.gov.on.ca

For more information on the Highway Traffic Act, Statutes and Regulations of Ontario, visit www.e-laws.gov.on.ca

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Over the next number of blogs we will cover Safety Equipment (Sizing, Safety Check, Helmets, Visibility), Handling Skills, Riding in Traffic (Where, Intersections, Signs and traffic signals, Dealing with trucks and buses), Obstacles and Road surfaces, Cycling and the Law and Electric Bicycles.  Stay tuned for the next few weeks as we cover some important information to keep YOU safe while cycling!

Watch for” CYCLING SKILLS (Safe Cycling) Part 1 – Safety Equipment – Sizing” in the Blog on Monday, July 26th.

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The above information is taken from the Government of Ontario website and addresses “Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling”.  For more information please see http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling-guide/index.shtml.

Our friends at Louis Garneau have always had a solid glove line up in addition to their performance apparel and gear and this year they have a new model called the Vent Flex.

Before we get started  talking about how awesome the addition of the L/G Vent Flex can be to your ride, let’s briefly discuss the differences between various types of gloves themselves so we’re all on the same page.  Generally you have two types:  half finger and full finger.  Usually a full finger gloved is used by off road cyclists as it gives a more aggressive grip and offers further hand and knuckle protection against tree branches and other obstacles.  Full finger gloves usually have less padding in the palm area because off road cyclists demand a solid grip and ride with hands that are constantly moving and adjusting the weight of the body based on terrain.

Half finger gloves typically suit the more recreational cyclist or those that enjoy road riding  as these cyclists tend to adopt a more static hand posture for  longer periods of time thus increased padding in the palm with a light and breathable back.

When temperatures change, some of the qualities of both gloves can be transferable i.e some off road cyclists prefer half finger gloves in really hot temperatures and road riders will source long finger gloves when riding early or late in the season etc.  Essentially, there aren’t any hard and fast rules for gloves in a general sense. Use what is comfortable and  works for you.

Now with the background complete on to the product!

The L/G Vent Flex, available in men’s or women’s, came to mind when discussing gloves because they have really made a big comfort difference to my ride this season.  My former gloves were a bit worn out and the padding was compressed and worn…great excuse for an upgrade!

Referring to my previous statements, L/G Vent Flex would be classified as mostly a road riding glove.  It’s construction and padding placement leans more towards the rider that is going to be using a drop handlebar style.  That is what they are designed for.  They will, of course, work for other cyclists.

The Vent Flex is a very light weight glove that features 5 mm thick gel foam palm padding and L/G’s “air zone” construction,  meaning the glove is very breathable.  The upper thumb is made of a really nice microfiber cloth for wicking away sweat, bug guts and all that nice stuff from the face.

One clever feature that I like is the rubberized pull tabs on the fingers.  These are designed so that it is a lot easier to get the glove off, rather than pulling them inside out all the time.  The material that the gloves are made of is fully washable too but they should be air dried rather than piling them in a dryer.

So if you’re a roadie and you are  tired of numb hands or you’re a cyclist that just wants a better, super comfortable glove then stop by one of our locations and try a pair of Louis Garneau Vent Flex glove.  Your hands will thank you!

Can be operated on roads in Ontario.  In the HTA, the definition of bicycle includes tricycles and unicycles but not motor-assisted bicycles. You do not need a drivers licence to operate a bicycle in Ontario.

A bicycle is a vehicle that:

• has steering handlebars and is equipped with pedals
• is designed to be propelled by muscular power
• has no age restriction for operators
• can be operated on most roadways (e.g., not allowed to travel on 400 series highways)
• cannot be operated across a roadway within a pedestrian cross-over

An operator must wear a bicycle helmet if under 18 and operating the bicycle on the road. If the operator is under 16 it is the duty of the operator’s parent or guardian to ensure that he/she wears a helmet. If the person is 16 or 17 it is his or her personal responsibility to wear a helmet.

No passengers are allowed if the bicycle is only meant for one person. When going slower than the rest of traffic, cyclists should stay as close to the right edge of the road as is practicable. Cyclists are allowed to safely use the full lane if staying close to the right edge of the road is unsafe.

Electrical Bicycles (“e-bikes”)

Okay… so maybe the title for this blog was a little bit misleading! But the info I have for you could be life saving if you find yourself stuck on the trail with a flat tire!

When it comes to getting a flat, nobody likes having to deal with it on the ride… in fact I know a few guys in the shop hmm hmm… who have even been so lazy as to call family members to pick them up so they didn’t have to change the flat on their ride. For the rest of us… the diehards… there are a few items you can pack, and a few pieces of advice you can follow to get you back up and running in no time!

As we discussed in my earlier blogs, you will want to pack: tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit and a pump along with the rest of your gear.

The steps for this procedure are fairly simple:

1.) As discussed in prior posts, find an upright place to hang your bicycle by the seat in order to work on it. This will make the going easier.

2.) Release the brake mechanism (if applicable, a mechanic in the shop can advise you on how to do this for your bike) and remove the wheel (yeah, I guess the flat one would make sense…) from your bike.

3.) Take a pair of tire levers, and insert them between the tire and the rim on one side directly opposite the valve stem.

4.) Clip the first tire lever to the spoke as a starting point, then, using the second lever; pry the bead of the tire off the rim, and work the rest of the bead off of one side.

5.) Remove the tube from inside the tire (valve first) and inflate it slightly to determine the cause of the puncture to the tube. If the flat resulted from an internal puncture (ie a snakebite) there is little need to check the tire for foreign objects. However, if the flat has been cause by an external puncture, ensure that you check the area inside the tire that corresponds to where the tube was punctured. (Note: it never hurts to check the tire anyways, better safe than sorry!)

6.) Once the tire is clear, you next need to inflate the new tube slightly to give it shape (this will make installation easier.)

7.) Insert the new tube, starting at the valve stem, and slowing inserting the tube around the tire. (it is crucial at this step to ensure the tube is not twisted, as this will cause the tube to fail.)

8.) Once the tube is installed, you will then want to re-mount the bead of the tire to the rim. This is done using both hands, and putting the tire under the hook of the rim. Start at the valve, and seat the tire in this region first, then work your way around the tire using both hands in opposite directions (as to not lose your starting point.)

9. Once you have re-installed the tire onto the rim, slowly inflate the tube (checking that the tire is properly seating on the rim all the way around.) Inflate the tire to your preferred pressure, then once again check the bead of the tire to ensure it has seated evenly around the rim.  (If you are not happy with the way it looks, deflate, and re-inflate the tire checking the bead constantly and filling slowly.)

10.) Re-install the tire on the bike, and re-connect any brake mechanisms that were detached for removal.

11.) Pack your gear back up, hop on your bike… and head out!

Didn’t mean to mislead you guys with the title… but I’m sure you’re all glad you read this one!

Until next time,
Check your pressure regularly!

Bryan

The generator uses the motion of the wheels to charge the unit through the same charging jack used for most Nokia mobile phones.  The kit will be available before the end of the year at selected retailers.

Take a few moments and fill out the survey!  Your feedback is important.

Effortless to control – even with wiggly children.

Storage Pockets – take food, drinks, clothing, and camera with you
-Pannier bags – tons of storage space over the rear wheel
-Quick-Adjust Seat – quickly accommodates different size children
-Weld Free Hitch – nothing stronger
-Double fail-safes engineered throughout
-Adjustable 3-Point Safety Harness with chest buckle
-Enclosed Sprocket and Chain – keeps little fingers out of harms way
-Foot Straps – holds feet by the heel and forefoot
-Removable Push Bar -easily detaches for travel and storage
-Reflectors, Reflective Tape, and Flag – increases visibility
-Cranks for kids to pedal

-Minimum User Height 38″ to take full advantage of pedaling
-Maximum User Height 52″
-Maximum User Weight 75 lbs

 Features:

-Double pannier storage system – up to 15 lbs
-Rear zip mesh storage pocket
-High visibility reflective pocket
-Safety flag and reflectors
-35 lbs with 20 inch wheels
-Hitch is weld free – no cast parts
-75 lb maximum weight
-Lower and narrower center of gravity for safer and easier operation
-Works with 25.4-26.8-27.2-30.9-31.6 seat post diameters

1

-Enclosed Drive Train
-Built-in Fender System
-42 x 16 ratio (13+MPH at 80rpm)
-Toes and heel straps for small feet
-Crank Arms designed for children

2

-Fully adjustable 3 Point Safety Harness
-Bull Horn grips for control and comfort
-Breathable see-through mesh side pockets
-Padded back and saddle
-”Hammock” Suspension
-Narrower rider profile for better driver control
-Hands free cockpit for: napping, drinking, munching, gaming

3

-Quick release, with pre-sets
-Double backbone design for security, strength and safety
-Easily adjusts for 39″-52″
-Solid weld design
-Rust protective finish

Braun’s…is BICYCLES    

27 Scott Street, Kitchener Ontario, N2H 2P8 

519-579-2453

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It has been a busy week at the shop and I have been helping my parents redo their deck, which, with our weather taking a turn for the better leaves me wishing I were out on the trails more. I figured I would offer some advice on how to get your bike back up and running if you happen to have chain problems on the trail.

To begin… as unfortunate as it is… everyone will break or damage a chain at some point in time.  In the case of mountain riding, too much tension on a climb, or catching a log while in the big ring can damage the chain and result in breakage or a stiff link. Not to worry, as both concerns can be resolved.  For the roadie type… an over exerted chain resulting from a missed shift or shifting error can cause similar problems.

-Seen above is an example of a stiff link that can be found in a chain (this will cause shifting and riding difficulties).

Follow these steps and your problems will be solved.

1.) To this problem there is one simple solution… get your rig back up and running at the side of the road without losing too much time off your ride.

2.) In order to resolve this problem you will need the following tools:

-A decent chain tool
-A quick link connecter
-Some patience (the latter of the three being the most important!)

3.) When you have a chain concern, your best option (be it road or mountain) is to pause your ride and stop where you can suspend your bike in an upright position:
-using the surroundings available, i.e. a tree, bench, guardrail, etc.
(This allows work to be more easily performed on the bicycle as it is upright and will function similar as to when you are riding it! (try not to work on your bike upside down.)

4.) Next, using your Park CT-3 (seen above) or similar tool, remove the stiff link, or fabricate two female ends to prep the installation of a quick link. This will allow the fastest, no issue install.
It is easiest to make these adjustments when the chain is not highly tensioned, so shifting the chain into the smallest rings (front and rear) will make it easier to repair the bike.

-When fixing a stiff or broken link it is important to remove the damaged portion (even if it makes the chain too short). This will help to ensure tensile strength in the chain.

5.) Check your regular riding  gears to ensure it will not cause any shifting problems and that you have removed any other stiff links.

*Note* For fixing broken chains: you are best to use a powerlink when your chain is new, however, pushing the pin on a link is better when your chain is aged. On those weekend trips up to the trails it never hurts to bring an extra chain along… just in case you have one of those days!

Until next time, keep your chain stressed, but not your nerves!

Bryan!

                                                                                                           
Do you enjoy cycling? Do you wish Waterloo Region was more cyclist-friendly? Here is your chance to help make it happen!

WHAT IS IT? The Region of Waterloo and the University of Waterloo are conducting a GPS Cycling Survey to help the Region update its Cycling Master Plan. Volunteer cyclists are asked to carry around a GPS unit for a 2-week period, complete a cycling survey, and complete a one-day travel diary. The GPS unit itself is quite small; about the size of a large USB stick. It can easily fit in your jacket pocket or knapsack, but should be kept visible while you cycle. We have attached lanyards so they can be worn around the neck while cycling.

WHY ARE WE DOING IT? To find out where the most popular cycling routes are and what cycling facility and infrastructure types are most preferred. Results from this survey will be used to update the Cycling Master Plan and determine snow clearing priority routes for cyclists, which could improve winter cycling in Waterloo Region.

WHO CAN TAKE PART? All cyclists in Waterloo Region are invited to take part. It doesn’t matter if you cycle long or short distances, use trails or roads; if you cycle this survey is for you. Tell your friends!

WHEN? This survey started in March 2010 and will continue until early 2011. The Region has purchased 50 GPS units for this survey, which are rotated to volunteers on a monthly basis.

WHERE? Anywhere in Waterloo Region, including: Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and the Townships.

HOW? Contact John Hill, Principal Planner at the Region to sign up today!
p: (519) 575-4019 | e: jhill@regionofwaterloo.ca

MORE DETAILS!

Expectations of our participants include: 

• Sign the consent form
• Pick up the GPS unit*
• Carry the GPS unit when you cycle for a 2-week period
• Return the unit when the study period is over*
• Complete a cycling survey and one-day travel diary
• Spread the word to fellow cyclists – the more data we can collect, the better!

Please Note: The pick-up and drop-off times will be determined by your availability. We do our best to accommodate the schedules of as many people as we can. For those participants who are unavailable during the designated times, delivery can be arranged.

Questions? Contact John Hill, Principal Planner at the Region
p: (519) 575-4019 | e: jhill@regionofwaterloo.ca

The Greater Niagara Circle Route is a trail system of over 140km of paved, off road trails and roadways.  The system includes the Welland Canals Trail which goes from St. Catharines on Lake Ontario to Port Colborne on Lake Erie .  The Friendship Trail goes between Port Colborne and Fort Erie.   From Fort Erie the Niagara River Recreation Trail follows the Niagara River, through the city of Niagara Falls, to Niagara-on-the-Lake . The Waterfront Trail follows Lakeshore Road from Niagara-on-the-Lake to St. Catharines.  

The Cycle and Stay Niagara website, http://www.cycleandstayniagara.com/  gives a list of Bed and Breakfasts located in towns along the Greater Niagara Circle Route including Niagara-On-The-Lake, Fort Erie, Port Colborne and Thorold.  There are also links to other helpful websites for this area such as the Bike Train ( http://www.biketrain.ca/ ), Niagara Green Belt ( http://www.niagaragreenbelt.com/ ), Tourism Niagara ( http://www.tourismniagara.com/ ) and Zoom Leisure ( http://www.zoomleisure.com/ ).

The Greater Niagara Circle Route is a family friendly route that offers riding for cyclists of all ages and levels and is suitable for families with trail-a-bikes or trailers.  Lots to see and do along the way!   If you are in the St. Catharines area take time to pop over to Port Dalhousie and take a walk through their quaint downtown and then to Lakeside Park.  While at the park take a ride on the wooden merry-go-round which was built in 1898 and restored in the 1970’s.  It still only costs 5 cents to ride.

This is one of my favorite routes to ride on!   Quiet trails, beautiful scenery and plenty of places to stop at along the way.     Have you biked here?  Have a favourite place to stop….eat….see?   We would love to hear from you.  Oh, and my favourite place to eat is Betty’s Restaurant in Chippawa, south of Niagara Falls.                                                

This summer the Bike Train will connect Toronto with areas such as North Bay, Windsor/Essex and Point Pelee, Niagara and Montreal, all offering different cycling options.  New for 2010 will be the Muskoka Pilot Project which will take place 2 weekends in the late summer.  Please see the website for specific details on dates and prices.

For further information please call:

Toronto: 416-338-5083
Toll Free Canada/USA 1-866-333-4491
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Email: Peter Lipscombe, plipsco@toronto.ca

Tires pumped, water bottles filled (yes Jordan you must take water with you), helmets, gloves, sunglasses on and we are ready to hit the streets.  Today, being Canada Day, we decide to start riding from our driveway and just point our front wheels in any direction and see where in or out of  our fine community we end up at.

The weather is absolutely perfect.  The temperature is a cool 17C and it is clear with a few white clouds in the sky.  What a day to be outside.  This is my first ride with my new Continental GP 4000 Force & Attack tires.  I pump the front Attacks up to 110psi and the rear Force up to 116psi.  WOW, I am amazed at how smooth the ride is.  I feel like I am almost floating.  Oh well don’t tell Aaron or Jordan, I need as much of an advantage over these two young bucks as I can get.  They will have me hurting soon enough.

So we find our selves heading away from Kitchener towards Waterloo and the thought hits me,  “We have turned down how many different roads today without even a thought or concern about our safety or whether we are at risk.  How fortunate we are. This being Canada Day, how can we not think about  Canada’s finest men and women serving in Afghanistan who can’t go anywhere without a real concern about their safety on the roads over there.  Do we truly appreciate how good we have it here in our great country of Canada!

Thank You to our fine men and women of  the military who serve us and the world so bravely, so that we can work, play and yes, even ride without a care as we go about our community in the best country in the World .  Tonight, we all should remember them and their families  in our prayers.

Every time I’m out riding I am amazed again at how much one really misses when we travel by car.  It is refreshing how really beautiful our communities are and how easy it is to enjoy and experience this when we travel by bike.  The amount of wildlife can be great to see.  Birds, little ground creatures and even an abundance of groundhogs.

A great day, a great country and a great time with my son and friend.  Isn’t this one of the important reasons why we work so hard all the other days?

Happy Canada Day!

Robert

These bikes fold or unfold in under 20 seconds and no tools are required.  Simply remove the front wheel, unlock one frame quick release and fold or unfold.   The frames are made of 7005 series aircraft grade aluminum so they are strong, yet light.  Choose from Pavement or Mountain Bikes.  Full information and specs are available on our website, www.brauns.com .

Some Montague bike basics unique to this brand of bike:

CLIX quick release lever allows the bike to be folded in less than 20 seconds.

F.I.T. (Folding Integrated Technology) is a patented folding system which is based on frame construction and eliminates “breaking” the frame in order to make this the strongest folding bike frame on the market. 

PAVEMENT BIKES

CROSSTOWN:   Just fold and go. The ever classic do-it-all bike. Whether you are riding for health and fitness, or just using it as a means to get around town, the Crosstown’s the perfect ride.

• Speeds: 7
• Wheel Size: 700c
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 27lbs

BOSTON:  The BOSTON brings back the basics as the first available 700c single speed folding bike. Stripping away the complexities of urban life, this folding bike leaves you face-to-face with the open streets.

The Essentials

 The Essentials

• Speeds: 27
• Wheel Size: 700c
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Weight: 27.5lbs

  FIT:  With the speed of a road bike, the versatility of a hybrid, and Montague’s legendary folding bike frame design, the FIT was created in order to provide the highest performance road ride of any foldable bike available, bar none

• Speeds: 27
• Wheel Size: 700c
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 26lbs

MOUNTAIN:

SWISS BIKE X50:  Like all Montagues, the SwissBike X50 is designed to fold and fit anywhere. With front suspension and all terrain tires, the X50 folding bike makes for the perfect light trail bike or rugged commuter.

• Speeds: 18
• Wheel Size: 26″
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 32lbs

• Speeds: 24
• Wheel Size:26″
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 29lbs

SWISS BIKE X70:  The SwissBike X70 is a rugged 27-speed folding mountain bike. Sharing the same solid frame design as the X90, the X70 is built for after-work rides on your favorite trails and full-on weekend excursions up in the mountains

• Speeds: 27
• Wheel Size: 26″
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 29lbs

SWISS BIKE XO:  The SwissBike XO is an aggressive 27-speed folding hardtail that can rail rugged single track with the best of them. With a stiff frame and a snappy ride, the XO folding bike beckons to the avid rider who demands both performance and portability.

• Speeds: 27
• Wheel Size: 26″
• Folding Time: 20 sec.
• Folded Size: 36″x28″x12″
• Approx Weight: 27lbs

Soft Carrying Case

Folding Pedals

Hope you’ve all been enjoying our unseasonably wet spring!

It has been a busy week at the shop, and finding time to write these posts seems increasingly more difficult. The one thing on my side at the moment is all the (for the most part) unwanted rain we have been receiving in the past few weeks. For those who prefer not to ride in the rain… they may have to put the bike back on the hook and focus on indoor activities. However, for us devotees out there, there is a way to continue to enjoy riding, even when the weather is unfavorable.

Indoor Trainers and Rollers offer all the physical benefits and enjoyment of a ride, without having to leave the comfort of your own living room! Pictured above is an example of a Tacx rear wheel, fixed bicycle trainer. These styles of trainers attach to the quick release of your rear wheel, and a resistance roller is placed in contact with either, the running surface or sidewall of your tire. These trainers are great as they allow you to pedal the bicycle without having to maintain balance. They do require the use of a specially formulated trainer tire, which is designed for the repetitive contact on the running surface or sidewall and will not deform or fatigue as a result of the heat generated. These tires are available in both 26″ and 700c sizes. You will also need a riser block for the front wheel, as the trainer raises the back wheel off the ground. The riser blocks are available in varying heights and are adjustable so that climbs and descents can be simulated on the trainer. As a result of this unseasonably wet weather and being a respectful rider and not wanting to damage the trails, I elected to install my trainer tire back on one of my rigs in order to be able to enjoy cycling no matter the outside conditions.

Rollers (as mentioned earlier and seen in the above photo) work on a similar premise. However, the bike is not fixed to the rollers and the rider is responsible for maintaining balance on the bike. They provide a much more realistic riding experience but they do require far more concentration when using inside the home.

The best part about either style is that they allow you to maintain your regular riding schedule, no matter the weather conditions and do so in the comfort and convenience of your own home. I personally find setting up the trainer in view of a TV and catching part of a game, or throwing a movie on, is the best way to stay motivated. There are also simulation ride DVDs in a first person point of view which can be purchased in order to keep you even more involved in your exercise.

There are those times however, where there is nothing better then going out for a nice ride in the cool rain on a quiet afternoon and if the forcast is correct thats what my ride may end up being. Make sure you check out the trainers, but remember there is a lot of world out there… and you want to see as much of it as you can!

Until next time, make sure you stay on the rollers!

Bryan

15 – 25% OFF ALL BIKES

Also Beat the HST tax

*Shop early for best selection.  Limited quantities.  Instock only.

CLOTHING:  Purchase 1st item – get 2nd item at 1/2 price

 (includes shorts, jersey, jackets tights)                                     

CYCLING SHOES:  10% OFF 

CATEYE WIRELESS CYCLE COMPUTER:  $59.85 (Regular price $89.98)

SIGMA FRONT & REAR LIGHT SET: $18.85 (Regular price $49.98)   

BLACKBURN FLOOR PUMP:  $25.85 (Regular price $39.98)

BRAUN’S BOTTLE & ALLOY CAGE:  $8.85 (Regular price $18.98)

ONGUARD BULLDOG U-LOCK WITH CABLE: $28.85 (Regular price $49.98)

COMFORT SUPER GEL GLOVES:  $19.85 (Regular price $39.98)

PING BELL:  $5.85 (Regular price $9.98)

ULTIMATE WAIST PACK:  $19.85 (Regular price $49.98)

These are just some of the items that are on sale.  Drop into one of the stores (Kitchener or Guelph) to see all the sale items.  Open Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

According to the article on The Official Google Blog, Google Maps features include as much bike trail data as possible, provide efficient routes, allow riders to customize their trip, make use of bike lanes, calculate rider-friendly routes that avoid big hills and customize the look of the map.  There are more than 12,000 miles of trails included in the biking directions and outlined directly on the map and also data on bike lanes and recommended streets for 150 cities across the United States.

I’m sure it’s only a matter of time until cycling routes in Canadian cities are also added. 

If anyone has tried this let us know how it worked for you!!

Kim

Louis Garneau Beverly 2 Bag/Pannier:   A single pannier that doubles as a purse with an adjustable shoulder strap. 

Louis Garneau Santa Cruz Bag/Pannier:  A stylish bag/pannier.

3-mm and 2-mm inner plastic

Adjustable flap opening with adjustable buckles

Louis Garneau Oxford Handlebar Bag:  A small handlebar bag.

Handlebar bracket: Circumference from 25.4 mm to 31.8 mm

Louis Garneau Cambridge Bag/Pannier:  A pannier that looks like a briefcase with an adjustable shoulder strap for ease of carrying.

Fabric 600 deniers

Quick clips B-2

Great new product for cyclists…..practical and stylish!

According to an article in Kitchener’s local paper, The Record from May 20, 2010 titled “Cycling master plan detailed”, the following is a list of what local cyclists feel is important:

*Build a cycling network over time with regular, consistent funding.

*Develop, implement and maintain a trail and cycling way-finding and signage strategy.

*Continue to partner with Waterloo Region on transportation-demand management to promote cycling as viable transportation to work places.

*Recognize and include appropriate cycling infrastructure in every new road reconstruction project.

*Consider the cycling network in all community plans and plans of subdivision to create comfortable and direct bikeways.

A draft of the Cycling Master Plan is to be presented to City Council in June.  For complete details regarding The Cycling Master Plan proposals and information that was presented at the information session on May 19th please  go to http://www.kitchener.ca/pdf/cycling_public_info_session2_2010_05_13.pdf  .  If you have any comments or questions you can contact Ron Schirm at ron.schirm@kitchener.ca or call 519-741-2232.

It has been a long and rainy week, and I have not been able to enjoy as many rides as I normally do. This has allowed me to further appreciate my morning commutes into the shop and made me analyze the many different styles of bikes available and the different applications they are designed for.

In this post, I hope to identify and distinguish between the different bikes that are available and the applications and riding styles for which they are designed. This can be significant when looking at purchasing a bike or when determining if the bike you have is the correct one for you.

There are 4-6 different styles of bikes available depending on how you divide up the styles.  However, I will break them down into the 6 full categories to give you the best comparison between them.

First, there are what are known as Road bikes (see above): these bikes typically have 700C or 650C wheels and are designed with an attack geometry to favour speed, over comfort or functionality. These bikes are fully rigid and can be made of materials from Steel to Carbon Fibre. They are available in all component levels and can extend from recreational to race or competitive models. Road bikes are designed strictly for road riding as their narrow tires and low gearing range promote high levels of speed on back country roads or the track.

Second, there are devoted Mountain bikes (seen above): these bikes typically consist of wheel sizes from 26″ to 29″ and are designed for durability and speed for use off roads on technical trail sections. These bikes are available in rigid models, front suspension models and full suspension models, depending on your preference. Further, these bikes are available in all component levels and can extend from recreational or entry level models, to racing or endurance models. Mountain bikes are best for trail riding, as they have  knobby tires and a high gearing range to make clearing all obstacles a possibility.

The third style of bicycle is known as Hybrid bikes (seen above): these bikes typically consist of a 700c wheel size, but are equipped with wider tires, and front suspension (to the riders preference) to make them more practical in multiple riding conditions. These bikes are very common for commuting as they are designed with gearing ratios for in city riding and can be equipped with internal gearing components to make them year round reliable transportation rigs.

The fourth style of bicycle is what`s known as a Cross Bike (seen above):  these bikes are designed with 700c wheels and road components, with gearing ratios to support on road riding  and speed. Similar to road bikes they are fully rigid. However, these bikes are considered cross bikes as a result of their ability to cross over into the mountain trails because of their design with re-inforced wheels and knobby tires which provide grip and control on single track trails. These bikes still have drop bars in a road bike fashion, yet they are equipped with mountain levers to offer better control in multiple riding conditions.

The fifth style of bicycle available is what is known as Comfort Bikes (seen above): these bikes are designed typically with 26` wheels and large volume tires to make the ride as smooth as possible. These bikes are typically designed with front suspension and suspension seat posts to make the ride as smooth and enjoyable as possible for the user. These styles of bikes are currently designed for style as well as function with step-through frames for women, and wooden racks and fenders for style.

The sixth style and final style of bicycle is actually a tricycle! These bikes are known as Adult Trikes (seen above): they are designed with wheel sizes from 20-26″ and are built with two rear wheels and a single front wheel to increase stability. These bikes are designed for light on road use, typically by the elderly or those who have trouble with balance or stability. These bikes have a relaxed riding position and can accommodate all styles of riders to make them multi-functional.

Now that I have discussed the Main styles of bicycles, it is your job to decipher which one best suits your riding style and how you intend to use the bicycle. If you are like myself, one bike will not fit all applications and you will end up with a garage full and have a different one for each day of the week, just like the clothes in your closet.

If you did not see a style of bicycle above that suits your needs, you may fit into a specific category that I did not discuss in this post. These styles of bikes are typically more unique and although widely used… are not as highly demanded as the others. If you have any questions about the styles of bikes I discussed, or what else is available from our retail stores, just ask me in a comment or contact either of our stores!

As always… I hope to see you out there and remember to be careful when riding!

Bryan

There will be information on E-Bikes, demos and the opportunity to become involved with an E-Bike Club/Group.  For all the details see the Kijiji ad.

Fines for this offence would be between $310 and $750. 

Transportation Minister Kathleen Wynne is reviewing Ontario’s cycling policies.  A number of the States as well as France, Spain and Germany already have this type of law in place.

“… I’m not sure if it’s a matter of needing more laws, or a greater sense of respect for one another on the road,” says Ontario’s Premier Dalton McGuinty.

What do you think?  Is this law a good idea or not?  Is it a matter of a law or respect?

Like to do some further reading on this subject?  Check out the following links.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario-aims-to-increase-cyclist-safety/article1573602/

http://www.thestar.com/news/ontario/article/811190–ndp-bill-proposes-3-foot-buffer-around-cyclists-on-road

http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/712968