Hello again cycling fans,

A birthday is always a momentous occasion, something that is definitely worth celebrating.

Maybe you invite some friends, break out the party hats and, if you’re a real cycling geek, you have a bicycle shape pinata full of bike godies to bash around with a spare handlebar

Well the crew at Braun’s is no different.  We also love birthdays and this year we have a few reasons to celebrate.  The first of course is OUR Birthday!!! We are 86 years old this year and we are incredibly proud and thankful that we have been able to assist you with your bicycling and fitness needs since 1925.

We’re celebrating big time, as we do every year and we’re having a big sale! Check out our flyer for more details

As part of our 86th Anniversary Sale, were also celebrating another birthday and excited to announce the arrival of our new retail location in Cambridge!

We have been serving our loyal customers from Cambridge for years from either our  Kitchener or Guelph stores and were excited that we can finally share our excitement and expertise for things bicycle, closer to home!

Braun’s is BICYCLES in Cambridge is located at:

505-2 Hespeler Rd

Phone 226-533-9090  

Email  cambridge@Brauns.com

Our Cambridge store hours are located here, stop by for a visit and say hello!

We sincerely hope that you’ll join us this month to scoop up some great deals and partake in the double birthday celebration!  Also look for Brauns at various cycling events across the Tri Cities this summer.  Until then, enjoy the ride!

P

If you’re interested in what’s new, what’s on sale, what’s happening and when, cycling news & Braun’s stuff — stay tuned to our tweets, blog posts, facebook page & newsletters for all the details.  

There are many ways that you may receive cycling info and deals.  It just takes a few clicks and you’ll be all set up.

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Click on one or more of the above links to receive your selected cycling information and deals.

Thanks! — The team at Brauns

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.

Hey everyone,

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!

Hey everyone,

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

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

So, here I am, once again looking at a new opportunity - totally overwhelmed with all the new information I am to understand – let alone take charge of.  However, I haven’t yet met a challenge I haven’t been able to meet.  So, here it goes….

Bikes and I go a long way back.  Well, at least 25 years.  That’s when I  married into the “Braun” family.   It was not until the last ten years however, that cycling has been a REAL part of my life.  From  2002 to 2006 I had the pleasure of being Tour Manager for the “Touring with Braun’s”  Division of  the company, planning and executing many cycling  tours including  BraunStorm, BraunWave and the Fall Theatre Classic. During this time I learned much about cyclists and cycling and how important distance, proper nutrition and hydration were and that scenery is so much better from the seat of a bike.  Yet….I still don’t understand how the wind is always a headwind no matter what direction you are going.

Planning routes for the tours also gave me the opportunity to learn about many beautiful parts of Ontario and the cycling opportunities that were available.  This is now where cycling gets “personal”.  For the past few years we, as a family, have enjoyed many cycling/camping holidays including the Georgian Trail, the Oro-Medonte Rail Trail and the Greater Niagara Circle Route to name a few.  Through these rides and others I have come to love my bike (thanks to Robert’s patience and unending adjustments) and cycling. 

In my “other” life I am married to Robert (25 years now) and we have 3 awesome children (Becky, Rachel and Aaron), 1 rabbit and 5 degus.  I am also a domestic engineer…..cook, cleaner, cheerleader, teacher, advisor, banker, chauffeur, mentor, vet, doctor, judge and jury….you get the idea. 

So that’s me in a nutshell…. I look forward to taking the knowledge I have and applying it to this new position  overseeing the many facets of Braun’s Bicycle Blog.   I am privileged to have a group of   knowledgeable cyclists  to work with to bring you timely and informative cycling information twice a week through  our blog postings. 

Just let me know if there is  a  cycling / bicycle topic  you would like to see covered or if you have a question for us or a comment!

Kim

Hey everyone,

As I was preparing my gear for a ride earlier this week, I began to think… what an awesome topic to touch on as there are so many scenarios to consider when preparing your gear!  Quite often people ride with either far too much gear, or far too little.  Both of which can greatly impact your safety and the enjoyment of your ride!

For this post I will discuss the necessary items for both road and trail rides and help to make sure you have all the essential items. I will break things down into two separate lists, as some of the gear overlaps, but many items differ depending on genre of riding.

Let’s begin with the basics, as these topics will apply to both road and mountain riding. You need a helmet, no questions asked… they are called accidents for a reason!  Depending on the length of your ride, you will want water accordingly. This can be carried in either a CAMELBAK, (more mountain) or in bottles mounted to the frame (more road). (It is important to note that when using camelbaks you only take as much water as you will need, it can be tempting to simply fill the bladder.) Second, you should consider nutrition.  Hammer Gels (make sure you check out Pats post on them!) or granola bars serve as sources of energy when you begin to slow down. Packing food should once again be based on the duration and intensity of your ride.

The gear list for trail riders is all based on the premise that things can and will go wrong.  While preparing for my last ride, I debated if I needed my chain tool (as it was quite warm and boy did I want to squeeze in that Gatorade bottle) but I was glad I fit that tool in!  On one of the last challenging climbs at Puslinch, I snapped my chain, and was glad I had my chain tool to get my rig up and running again. For reasons such as this, you want to ensure you have the right tools and spare parts to fix problems that may arise. My recommendation is a quality multi-tool, such as the Park Rescue Tool MTB-3C. Tools such as this and other multi-tools provide all the necessities you will need to make adjustments and repairs while on your ride.  If you do not have a multi tool, you will want to pack a 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8mm hex wrenches, a #2 philips screwdriver, a slot screwdriver, a chain tool, tire levers, a three way spoke wrench and 8, 9 and 10mm open wrenches. The final things to pack include a quick link, a spare tube (as the tire levers are no good without it), a high capacity pump, and a patch kit (just in case you have a really unlucky day!)  This list is crucial, as having the right tools can really get you out of a jam and all this can be carried in your CAMELBAK or in your seat bag… that one, is up to you.

For road riders, it is somewhat reassuring that there is less that can potentially go wrong, and therefore, the amount of gear you need to carry is smaller. The likeliness of needing a chain tool, or spoke wrenches is far smaller while riding on the road. The gear list can still include a multi tool, but a more simplistic one may serve more practical for you. Regardless, when heading out for a road ride, you will want to carry 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6mm hex wrenches, a Philips and flat head screw driver, tire levers, Park GP-2 Super Patch Kit and a compact pump.

Ensuring you have the right gear packed can make the difference between an enjoyable ride and a long walk back to the car.  A few questionable items include gloves (as these can be used to your preference) and your cell phone. Although I would not recommend texting and riding, being able to contact the appropriate services can  be very important in case you are stranded due to a blow out or a serious situation is to arise.  I made good use of mine on a road adventure last fall when I had to call a friend to rescue me from a violent thunderstorm about 10km north of Aurora.

Is there anything you take on your rides that you would like to recommend?  What about things you have found you don’t need?

As for me, it’s about time I get ready for my ride into the shop. Let’s hope it’s smooth sailing and a flat free morning!

Until next time… Keep your pack light, but take the gear you need!

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!

Finally got out on my first mountain bike ride of the year on Tuesday.  Ok ok, before I’m beaten to death with a blunt object, please remember that I DID get a new road bike this past winter…and the “Look Cool Factor” is still running high

However, sheepishly, I still havn’t been able to turn a road ride into as much fun as I have on my mountain bike.  Either way, I’m sure I’ll get flak from both sides!

As the cycling slang title suggests, my first dirt ride of choice for the year was the trail known as “The Hydro-cut” located at the end of University Ave. in Waterloo, Ontario – next to the dump for all intensive purposes.

So first let’s talk about the weather this year.  Surely, the Chinese calender is mistaken, and 2010 is actually the year of the cyclist!  Ok, but really, this year has been nothing short of perfect riding conditions.  I was immediately more than impressed with the trail conditions at the hydro cut for this time of year, everything was dry and clear.

Charging down the trail was my Jamis XLT 2.0 and trusty bar buddy , aiding in my aggressive whoops of joy.  As it was my trail first ride of the year, the bike wasn’t quite dialed in, but as you can imagine, I take good care of her, so we weren’t to far off.  I am running Kenda Nevegals this time of year, but should be running something a lot slimmer until we actually get a spring season.

Cyclists that have already ridden the hydro cut this year will have noticed some new trail additions.  Namely, a new entrance loop that allows the trails to flow in a one way system.  Great for traffic!  Bad if somebody doesn’t pay attention to the posted signs so, as always, stay attentive and in control at all times.

The Waterloo Hydro Cut is one of the best trails in the region and big thanks to the folks at the WCC for making this possible.

A great ride and, looking forward to many, many, many more.

See ya out there,

P

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

Yes we have, and it is because we have the Bike Industry’s BEST STAFF.  No really – I’m not just saying it – I mean it.  They really are.  Our Guys and Gals love riding their bikes.  They enjoy meeting and helping people.  They really are great to be around.  At Braun’s we are fortunate to have them.  But we aren’t the only ones who think so.  Because of our staff, Braun’s has won over 40 customer service awards over the last many years.

That’s a lot of awards.  Are we ever grateful too.  Read over this list of awards and see if you don’t agree with me that Braun’s has the BEST staff in the bike industry.