Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Photos from June 26 Night Ride on the Towpath Trail
Don't forget: our next Night Ride is on Friday, July 9! All of our Night Rides start at 8:00pm from our Peninsula store. Go to www.centurycycles.com/for/nightrides for full details!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Product Review: 2011 Raleigh Competition Carbon Road Bike
The handlebar is the aluminum FSA Wing Compact model with ergonomic flat tops. The rest of the cockpit is put together with Avenir 200 Series aluminum stem and seat post, topped off with a Selle San Marco Ponza saddle.
Stopping power is provided by Tektro Dual Pivot brakes. The whole package rides on Mavic's Aksium Race wheelset.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Last week's bicycle tourers in Peninsula
Joseph Casamassima (left) and Greg Giemza (right) are riding across the country (east to west) on "Miles for Mom - Coast to Coast for a Cure." The pair are raising awareness and funds for Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease, which have stricken both of their mothers, respectively. You can follow their journey, and make a donation, at: www.milesformom2010.com
Friday, June 25, 2010
Brian Griggs' new gig with Yehuda Moon + other news
In other cycling news:
Cleveland's June Critical Mass bike ride is TONIGHT at Public Square -- gather at 6pm, ride at 6:30pm. (Cleveland Critical Mass or on Twitter at @CLECritMass)
Geopolitical Cycles: 19th century bikers pedaled across cultures and into massacres. (New York Times Book Review)
Do bicycle helmets save lives? Or do they hurt cycling? (Planet Green)
Bikes banned in Black Hawk, Colorado. For real. (League of American Bicyclists)
A tour of the Brooks saddle factory. (Dirt Rag/Bicycle Times)
Old ink cartridges form bike path in Australian national park. (Treehugger)
The Bicycle That Saved Curious George
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Century Cycles teams up with Main Street Cupcakes
Century Cycles teams up with Main Street Cupcakes to offer sweet treats for sweet rides
ROCKY RIVER, Ohio (June 24, 2010) – Main Street Cupcakes and Century Cycles are teaming up to offer sweet treats for sweet rides, celebrating the benefits of buying local when shopping in Rocky River for both bakery and bicycles.
The Detroit Road neighbors have launched a summer promotion that has an eye-catching pink and white Electra Townie Holiday 3 bicycle from Century Cycles on display at Main Street Cupcakes -- a cupcake box tucked perfectly inside its handlebar basket as a reminder that bicycles are an ideal mode of transportation for around-town errands. Main Street Cupcakes customers also receive a coupon good for $25 off their next bicycle purchase from Century Cycles.
At Century Cycles, the purchase of an Electra Townie or cruiser bicycle comes with a free cupcake from Main Street Cupcakes – a delicious way to celebrate their new wheels and remind Century Cycles customers about Rocky River’s newest Detroit Road retailer.
This promotion is good only at the Rocky River locations of both stores while supplies last.
New Product: CatEye Commuter Cyclocomputer
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Photos from June 4 Night Ride on the Towpath Trail
Don't forget that our next Night Ride on the Towpath is this Saturday, June 26, 2010. The ride starts in Peninsula at 8:00pm! See www.centurycycles.com/for/nightrides for more details.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hot New Product: iPhone handlebar mount
The case easily attaches and detaches from the clamp with a quick release mechanism. Best of all, the case's clear polyurethane cover allows you to operate your iPod / iPhone controls with the device inside the case.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Catching up with more bicycle tourers in Peninsula
This is Jeff Herzsstein, Sebastion Kennerknecht, and Dan Shively on June 16, 2010 taking a break while riding from Brooklyn, NY to San Francisco, CA.
This is one of the most colorful characters we've come across. His name is Jonathan Catalano, and he started his ride from his home in Buffalo, NY, and was the second touring group to stop by on June 15, 2010. He was using parts of the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route to get to Atlanta, GA, where we was going to stay with his sister for a while to paint her house. He then planned to make his way back north and west to catch the TransAmerica trail to the west coast, then head south through Mexico, Central America, and South America.His most interesting stories were about his most recent job as a "tower climber." He worked for a company that builds and maintains those towers for radio and cell phone transmission. His last task before leaving was to climb an 800-foot tower to change the light bulb at the top!
You can follow Jonathan's journey at: www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/jello
Friday, June 18, 2010
The Inner Belt bridge bike lane saga continues
In today's edition, PD editorial board came down hard on ODOT in an editorial titled "Can ODOT say anything but 'no?'" They say the decision is "disappointing but unsurprising" and that "ODOT is a master of the narrow 'no' -- no matter the economic plusses." PD editors call on Gov. Strickland to demand a culture change at ODOT. They also call the proposed changes to the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge a "common-sense upgrade [that] should be done regardless of what happens with the Inner Belt."
Click here for our past blog posts about the effort to get a bike lane on the new Inner Belt bridge -- including who supports it, who is against it, and how to get involved.
Amazing stunt riding...on a carbon road bike
And yes, before you ask, Raleigh says, "This will totally void your warranty."
Our June 2010 eNewsletter
- Inviation to the Medina County Bicycle Club's Ice Cream Odyssey Ride on July 17
- Final wrap-up and reports from our Cleveland Bicycle Week events, including the Bay Bike to School Challenge, Pajama Party Night Ride, and Ride of Silence.
- 5 Questions with Brad Sweet of the Rocky River store.
- 5 Tips: Preparing for and Riding in a Charity Bicycle Tour
- Our latest online poll: Which age had the best bikes?
To catch up on past issues of the eNewsletter, and sign up to receive it in your Inbox, go to our eNewsletter Archive page.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
5 Tips: Preparing for and Riding in a Charity Bicycle Tour
The following 5 tips will help you get ready for your event, and help you enjoy yourself more during the event. Many of these events, like the MS150 Pedal to the Point, Pan Ohio Hope Ride, and Pelotonia are multi-day rides, but most of these tips apply equally well to single-day events such as the Tour de Cure, or to non-charity events such as the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (GOBA).
- Train by building up your mileage gradually. Most supported bike tours have rest stops every 12 to 15 miles, so if you can ride that distance comfortably, you'll do fine. If you're a beginning rider, start your training by doing short loops of 12-15 miles from your home or on your favorite local bike trail. Once you've done that a few times, ride out 12-15 miles, take a break, then ride back. Later, ride out 30 miles, then ride back, taking a couple of short breaks along the way. Keep building up your distance in this manner until you get to the distance of your event. During your breaks, eat a light snack. Drink plenty of water or sports drink during the breaks and while you're riding. To avoid "bonking" or dehydration, you should follow the rule of "drink before you're thirsty; eat before you're hungry." In summer-like weather, you should finish at least one water bottle between each rest stop, if not more. Don't spend too much time dawdling at the rest stops. If you rest too long, you're body thinks it's done for the day, and then you'll have to warm up all over again when you get back on the bike.
- Make sure your bicycle is tuned up and in good working order. Don't wait until the week before your event to take your bike into your favorite shop for a tune-up, because during the busy season, the service department may be backed up longer than a week. It's okay to take it in a month or so before the event--once it's tuned up, nothing major should go wrong with it in a couple of weeks, and the shop that tuned it up should be glad to give it a last-minute safety check a couple of days before the event. Don't rely on the event support mechanics for a tune-up or other major work--they are there to help you with unexpected emergencies, but they are not likely to have a lot of hard-to-find parts on hand, especially if you've got exotic wheels or other high-end components.
- When choosing what gear to pack, find a good balance between comfort and convenience. Self-supported bike tourers are like backpackers; they are constantly weighing each piece of gear they use and trying to find the lightest possible items to carry. This often means sacrificing comfort, such as sawing the handle off of your toothbrush, using the smallest, thinnest sleeping pad, and a tent that you barely have room in which to change your clothes. On a supported tour, however, you have the luxury of somebody carrying your gear for you, so you can afford to live it up a little. If you're traveling alone, use a spacious 2-person tent. If you're traveling with a partner, use a 3- or 4-person tent so you're not rolling over each other all night. Use a nice, thick model of sleeping pad, or even an inflatable mattress. If you're a light sleeper, bring along ear plugs and an eye shade to minimize disturbances from the campers around you. Bring a small flashlight or headlamp for those late-night excursions to the restroom.
Don't go too overboard with this tip! You'll need far less clothing than you think. You'll be wearing your casual off-the-bike clothes for only a few hours each day, so you can probably double up on the days you wear each t-shirt and pair of shorts. You should only need one sweatshirt or light jacket for the evenings when it cools off. And keep in mind the generous volunteers that will be loading and unloading your bags every day! Stay within the tour organizer's stated limits for the number, size, and weight of each of your checked bags. If you're riding with a partner, put your shared camping gear in one bag, and combine your clothing in a second bag. Or, pack your personal items and clothing in separate bags, and split up the shared gear between you. - Don't forget to have fun! You've spent months training, and raising funds and awareness for your cause. The ride is your reward for all of the hard work you've put in. Enjoy it however you wish! Ride at whatever pace is comfortable for you. Stop at the rest stops and partake in the snacks and socializing. Smell the roses, as the saying goes. If you end up feeling like you're having a bad day, or if the weather turns sour, don't feel guilty if you have to hitch a ride in the SAG wagon. Forcing yourself to suffer through a ride does not do anything to relieve the suffering of the people you're riding for. Stay safe!
- Be a good ambassador for cycling. Always be aware that non-cyclists will judge your actions, and then judge every other cyclist based on those actions. This may not be fair, but it's a fact of life. By behaving as an upstanding bicycling citizen at all times, you'll make riding safer and more enjoyable for yourself and the rest of us. Don't assume that because you're riding for a charity that you're above the law. Obey the usual traffic regulations just like drivers are expected to do. Even though Ohio law allows riding two abreast, if a driver is trying to pass you, single up for a moment to make it easier. Don't pass drivers on the right at stop signs or traffic lights; get in back of the line and wait your turn.
When patronizing restaurants and other local businesses along your route, it's reasonable to expect good service, but remember that these establishments probably aren't equipped to handle dozens (or even hundreds) of cyclists during a special event. Be patient, and tip well. Don't assume it's okay to use their restrooms or fill up your water bottles if you're not buying something from them. Make them look forward to your next visit, so that they'll be proponents of future bicycling events in their town.
The Century Cycles staff has many years of combined experience in bike tours, both as participants, and through our sponsorship and support of many of Ohio's most popular rides. Look for our support van this summer at the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure, Ice Cream Odyssey, Pan Ohio Hope Ride, MS150 Pedal to the Point, and the NEW Farm 'N Barn Bike Tour in the Cuyahoga Valley!
What tips do you have to share from your cycling adventures? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
Staff Profile: Brad Sweet
Q: What’s the difference between selling bikes and selling cars?
A: At Century Cycles, we don’t work on commission or have quotas. We can truly keep the customer’s best interest in mind to make sure they get the best bike for their needs. It’s a pure selling experience that focuses on good, fun things.
Q: Do you remember your first bicycle?
A: Oh, yeah. My first bike ties into my first real heartbreak as well. In my recollection, I had a 24” cruiser -- or maybe it was even smaller -- that had “Challenger” on the side and was black and gold. I tried to tweak it myself by adding mag wheels. My mom noticed a bare bike frame in the garage and put it out on the curb with the trash. Gone. Because of that, I keep bikes I like for a long time.
Q: So how many bikes do you have right now?
A: I have about six that are fully functional. I always have something around for friends to ride so they don’t have an excuse not to ride with me.
Q: Do you have a favorite bike?
A: The best recent riding is on a single speed rigid mountain bike. It started as a hardtail Diamondback and is now a Frankenstein bike with a mix of Surly and other parts.
Q: Road or dirt?
A: Dirt. Not a doubt in my mind. It keeps you keen. You have to be vigilant when you push yourself off-road because there is real risk involved. But there are also those distinct moments of zen - you're reacting without really seeing, just focusing on going fast and staying smooth.
Q: What piece of cycling advice do you most often give?
A: Clean your bike. As mechanics, we see a lot of really dirty bikes. Just keeping your bike clean does wonders for it.
Q: What do you like about working in a bike store?
A: The variety – every day there are interesting situations and customers.
Q: When did you start bicycling?
A: I got my first “real” bike when I lived in Chicago about six years ago. It was a steel frame mountain bike to attack the streets of Chicago. I took a brief hiatus when I moved to Pittsburgh – the bicycle commuting was painful with all those hills – but started back up again when I moved back to Cleveland.
Q: What’s your favorite trail?
A: I’m still discovering a lot. I really enjoyed a fast trail called Pontiac Lake in Michigan. With its sweeping banked curves and the effortless speed you sustain, it feels like you're in a dirt bobsled track.
Q: What do you like to do when you’re not on a bike or at work?
A: I play music. Besides bicycling, my other outlet is acoustic guitar.
Q: What’s your favorite post-ride drink?
A: Chocolate milk. It does the body good!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Great dads deserve a great bike for Father's Day
So cross all those things off your shopping list for Father's Day and pencil in Century Cycles' gift recommendation for Dad -- the Raleigh Misceo 1.0 ($549.99).
We like to call the Raleigh Misceo "the Swiss Army knife of bikes." It’s one of our most popular men’s models this season in a hot new bicycle category – the performance hybrid. The Misceo is a super versatile bicycle that sports an aluminum frame and front suspension fork. They combine to provide a great ride on the road AND are rugged enough to handle the rougher terrain of an off-road challenge. Dad will also like that it has 24 speeds -- he'll have the right gears on both hill and dale.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Ontario-bound cyclists stop in Peninsula
Randy broke his derailleur and had it replace yesterday, but needed some additional adjustment to the cable tension, so Rich took care of that for him.
See our Bicycle Touring Photo Gallery for more pictures of riders that have stopped by all three of our stores.
Monday, June 14, 2010
"Prioritizing the Power of the Pedal" on WCPN's Sound of Ideas Tuesday
- Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Transportation
- Lois Moss, founder Cleveland Walk+Roll (and former co-owner of Century Cycles)
- Tim Blumenthal, executive director Bikes Belong Coalition
- Tim Donovan, executive director Ohio Canal Corridor
Among the topics covered will be what the USDOT's new priorities could mean for Ohio, plus an update on the much-anticipated Cleveland leg of Northeast Ohio's Towpath Trail.
You can listen by tuning into 90.3 FM in the Cleveland area, or listen live online at wcpn.org/soi from anywhere in the world. The program begins at 9:00am Eastern time.
Define your life - in San Francisco!
Bicycling across the Golden Gate Bridge can be a harrowing experience, but one that should be on the "bucket list" of every cyclist. Imagine the busiest summer weekend on the Towpath Trail, with hundreds of fellow tourists on bike and on foot. Add in 30mph+ cross-winds and a 270-foot drop to the cold water of the Bay below!
I had the good fortune of a friend living in town who let me borrow a bike for the day, but if you want to try the ride yourself, there are plenty of bike rental concessions available. They are easy to find near Fisherman's Wharf and the surrounding area.
There's no toll or fee to cross the bridge on foot or by bike. You can ride both ways, or take the ferry back to San Francisco from Sausalito, the first town on the north side of the bridge, for about $8.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Road cycling routes in the CVNP
One of the resources you may not have stumbled across yet is this page devoted to road cycling routes in and around the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, all starting from our Peninsula store. They include the Valley Route, which is a very basic route good for all skill levels, and the Death Ride (above), the ultimate hill-climbing challenge based on a route originally mapped out by member of CTC. Links to Bikely are also provided for the maps, cue sheets and elevations.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Tune in to Table Talk with Bob Soroky at 9pm
Click here to log in to hear the show online. Hint: Log in a bit before 9pm so as not to miss anything. There will also be a call-in number if fans wanna talk on the air with either Scott or Bob.
Like what you hear? Then "like" Table Talk with Bob Soroky on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tabletalkbs.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Adult Trike Fever!
On the Torker Bicycles Tristar Adult Trike ($539.99), you can ride to the grocery store, tool around town, or go visiting the neighbors. Made with a durable steel frame and tough wheels, the Tristar can haul your groceries, library books or just an extra jacket. The wide, comfy saddle makes riding a pleasure and the simple coaster brake with an extra hand brake makes it safe.
Come test ride a trike for yourself (or a family member) and see why so many people have trike fever!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Camping in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Each camp site accomodates up to two tents and six people per site. The rates are $18per day for each site ($15 for CVNPA members).
The campsites are available now through Monday, October 31, 2010. Reservations are available by contacting the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Association at (330) 657-2909 extension 119, from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Coming soon: the Weehoo i-Go Pedal Trailer
The Weehoo i-Go is a new tag-along / trail-a-bike concept for parents who really want to ride. The openness engages children for hours and encourages interaction between parent and child.
Children can pedal as much as they want or sit and relax. While pedaling, children can exert so much force that you'll ride easier with your child than without. Effortless handling.
Includes tons of storage, enclosed drive train, and ergonomic seat that quickly adjusts for different size riders.
Coming soon to Century Cycles!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The latest bicycle tourer in Peninsula
Thanks again to Doug for the photo! Check out all of our bike-touring visitors at the Century Cycles Bicycle Touring Photo Gallery.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Come rent a bike for a ride on the Towpath Trail!
Century Cycles has bicycles for rent at our store located in Peninsula, Ohio. You can ride right from the store onto the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which is very flat and suitable for all ages and skill levels.
We rent Raleigh comfort hybrid bikes and Electra Townie cruisers that fit most adults and young adults, Raleigh Mountain Scout bicycles for kids, and trailers and tag-alongs for small children.
We're open 7 days a week, and just a 30-minute drive from Cleveland or Akron!
See our newly-updated bicycle rental information page for full details on rates, hours, directions, our bicycles, and everything you need to know to enjoy a fun ride!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Short-distance bicycle tourers in Peninsula
Today's visitors to the Century Cycles store in Peninsula show that you don't have to be out for a long time or a long distance to have fun traveling on your bike. Scott and Andy are from Toledo, Ohio, and are just riding home from Cleveland. Their destination today is Findley State Park near Wellington. Both men do work with the Toledo Bicycle Co-op (www.toledobikecoop.org).
UPDATE: Andy and Scott stopped by the Medina store later in the day, also: