Thursday, September 30, 2010

Interbike 2010 Report - Surly Bikes

Hey, look, Surly Bikes is now going to be making a version of the Long Haul Trucker frameset pre-built with S&S Machine Works couplers! It's going to be called the Trucker DeLuxe, and will come in Navy Blue. The first runs will be the 26-inch wheeled models only; 700C versions may (or may not) come later:
If you look closely enough, you'll notice that the S&S couplers look a little different. They're using a new version of the couplers, which have lugs that are internal to the frame tube, rather than external, which provide a cleaner, more streamlined look, and require less paint touch-up on frame retrofit jobs.

With this coupled version of the Long Haul Trucker, Surly is discontinuing the Traveler's Check, the coupled version of the Cross-Check. We always thought it would make more sense to sell a coupled version of the Long Haul Trucker. Surly's thought was that they could cater to both the long-distance tourer and the traveling racer by using the Cross-Check. But if you think about it, if you're serious enough about cyclocross racing to be in the habit of carting your bike on a plane to go to races on a regular basis, you're probably not the typical target Surly customer.

However, keeping with the theme of the Cross-Check-as-touring-bike, Surly is now going to make all Cross-Checks going forward have mid-fork eyelets, for front cargo rack-friendliness. You can see them here on the new Robin's Egg Blue Cross-Check:

Here's the new version of the Big Dummy; notice the redesigned top tube with strut near the seatpost that Surly will be using on all of their mountain bike frames:

Also notice the new version of the XtraCycle FreeLoader side bags and the new versatile FlightDeck top. As we mentioned before, The Big Dummy gets down-spec'ed to make the price more attractive to the average Joe (or Jane, or Brian, or Fatty McBastard). Some of the differences that I recall (subject to change, and I'm probably leaving some out) are:
  • Handlebar: Salsa instead of Surly 1x1
  • Crankset: Truvativ instead of Surly Mr. Whirly
  • Tires: Continental Town & Country instead of Schwalbe Big Apple
  • Shifters: Shimano Deore instead of Deore LX
  • Derailleurs: Shimano Deore instead of Deore LX
  • Hubs: Shimano Deore instead of Deore XT rear/Surly front
  • Brake levers: Avid FR-5 instead of Speed Dial 7
The brakes are still Avid BB-7, the best mechanical disc brakes money can buy! Don't be afraid of the term "down-spec;" it's all still solid stuff.

Here's a shot of the new bike in the Surly lineup, the Troll, a 26-inch mountain/adventure-touring, singlespeed-or-geared, ready for anything piece of orange juicyness:
I talked to Eric Sovern, one of the Surly Supreme Overlords, and asked,"What's the story behind the new Troll?" According to Sov, it's got the same frame geometry of the Surly 1x1. People have been asking for a geared-compatible version of the 1x1 for years, and they could have just done that, but that would've been kinda too easy and, well, un-Surly-like. It seemed this frame needed its own reason for being. When they came up with the idea of making the Surly Cargo Trailer, they thought it needed a frame to go with it. The Troll has a dedicated pair of eyelets for attaching the Cargo Trailer, so they're a match made it heaven. That being said, the Cargo Trailer works on just about any other bike, and the Troll is a great bike on its own, even if you're not interested in the Cargo Trailer. Speaking of which, here's another shot of the Cargo Trailer:

(And check out the calves on those high heels!)

Here's the new Battleship Gray Karate Monkey:

Notice the new top tube design again. The Monkey also gets rear rack eyelets for the off-road adventure-touring crowd.

This over-exposure highlights the new Snowblind White color of the Pugsley:

The Pugsley will now be available as a complete bike, making it much more accessible for your average snowy season commuter; just don't leave it laying in a snow drift, or you might lose it!

Stay tuned for more fun stuff from last week's visit to Interbike!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

New Hampshire couple stops in Peninsula on the way to Texas

Linda and Kevin Spoor left their home in Conway, New Hamphire on Sept. 6 and followed the Northern Tier Route until it crosses the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route. They'll follow that until it ends in Mobile, Alabama, and then will take the Southern Tier Route into Texas to meet up with Kevin's father.

Dig that pair of Surly Long Haul Truckers!

Way to go, Congressman LaTourette!

We just got the news from local cycling advocacy group Walk+Roll that Congressman Steve LaTourette of Ohio last week added his name to a growing number of elected officials who support streets with access to all, including bicyclists. The congressman signed on to the Complete Streets Act – a bill now in Congress that would ensure that communities across America design, build and operate their roadways with all users in mind – including bicyclists, public transit users and pedestrians, as well as motorists. This is a turnaround from last spring, when Congressman LaTourette (R-OH 14) made off-the-cuff remarks jokingly suggesting that Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood was on drugs for thinking bicycle projects should receive substantial funding and also said “What job is going to be created by having a bike lane?” The bicycle community reacted quickly with hundreds of phone calls and e-mails to let him know how important cycling and walking are to his community and communities all over the country. After meetings with bicycle and pedestrian advocates in Washington DC and in his northeast Ohio district (such as Walk+Roll), Congressman LaTourette agreed to become a co-sponsor of the Federal Complete Streets Act. Because he is on the prestigious House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, his opinions regarding transportation policy and infrastructure spending are important. ClevelandBikes suggests that in appreciation of his support for cycling, you might drop Representative LaTourette a note (just so he doesn't think we only call when we're mad). Here's how to reach the Ohio and Washington offices Painesville: 800-447-0529 or 440-352-3939 Twinsburg: 330-425-9291 Washington, DC: 202-225-5731 Also, you can leave a note via his website, here: http://latourette.house.gov/contact.aspx

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Home Depot Safety Fair in Brunswick on Sat. Oct. 2


Come visit some of the crew from the Century Cycles store in Medina as we lend a hand at the Brunswick Home Depot Safety Fair this Saturday!

We'll be doing bicycle safety inspections, as well as giving talks on bike-riding safety and helmets.

When: Saturday, October 2, 2010, 9:00am - 2:00pm

Where:
Home Depot
3330 Center Road (Route 303, just west of Interstate 71)
Brunswick, Ohio 44212

Cost: FREE!

Interbike 2010 Report - Raleigh

With several other major bicycle brands choosing not to participate in the Interbike trade show this year, Raleigh decided to make a splash with an expanded space to better highlight their 2011 line.

The flagship of Raleigh's road bike line this coming year is the new International, which combines the best of the old and new. A lightweight Reynolds 853 steel frame with classic lugged design is paired with a complete Shimano Dura-Ace component group:
Raleigh continues to support the cyclocross market with their sponsorship of the Singlespeed division at the CrossVegas race, and this limited-edition singlespeed CX bike with carbon fiber frame and Gates Carbon Belt Drive:

Speaking of the carbon belt drive system, Raleigh is dabbling a little more with that technology with the new Raleigh XXIX singlespeed mountain bike. Here is a close-up of the drive train detail:

Raleigh's popular Rush Hour fixie returns with a gray and white color scheme:

Further serving the "bike everywhere" crowd, Raleigh jumps into the folding bike market for the first time in a long time with this model featuring a worry-free internally-geared 8-speed hub:

Not pictured, but more coming from Raleigh that we're excited about, is the new Revenio series of aluminum frame road bikes (some in stock in our stores already). From the entry-level Revenio 1.0 ($649.99) to the Shimano Ultegra-equipped Revenio 4.0 for $1,649.99, the Revenio series offers performance and value.

The 2010 Raleigh Misceo 1.0 and Misceo 2.0 proved to be very popular, and so will return for 2011 in new colors, as well as a more value-priced version, the Misceo (no number) at $499.99. Similar in design to the Misceo 1.0 and 2.0, it still has powerful disc brakes, but a rigid fork instead of a suspension fork, and a sleek flat-black finsih for all of your stealthy urban and suburban adventures. Of course, the best-selling Route and Venture series of hybrid bikes will be around for all of your family bike path excursions.

Stay tuned for more Interbike news in the next few days!

Monday, September 27, 2010

We will open at NOON on Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010

PLEASE NOTE: We will be having a staff training session on the morning of Thursday, September 30, 2010. Therefore, all three Century Cycles stores will be open from 12:00pm (noon) until 8:00pm that day.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

We will be open for our regular store hours on all other days this week.

CrossVegas Elite Women's Cyclocross Race

As part of the Interbike industry trade show held last week, the CrossVegas race was held on Wednesday evening. I arrived too late to see Sean Burkey, our local Raleigh sales representative compete in the Wheelers and Dealers (bike industry) division; sorry Sean! But, I managed to get some video of the Elite Women division, which was won by Czech National Cyclocross Champion Katerina Nash:



The Elite Men's race came to an exciting conclusion, as defending CrossVegas champion Jeremy Driscoll, who led for most of the race, was passed at the finish line by French cyclocross champion Francis Mourey.

Stay tuned in the next few days for photos of some of the latest bicycles and other products from the trade show!

Friday, September 24, 2010

An update on Katie Spotz and "Phoenix"

So many have you have told us how happy you are to know that local hero Katie Spotz is bicycling again and you've asked for updates. Here's what's happened in the past few days: + The bike donation to Katie is featured on the front page of the West Shore Sun newspaper this week (above). If Sun posts the article online, look for the link to it on our Katie Spotz page and on our Facebook wall. + Katie herself wrote a moving blog post titled "Out of the Ashes" on her website at Row for Water. You can probably tell from the title how she decided upon the name of "Phoenix" for her new Giant Defy.... + Katie will be speaking about her "Row for Water" at an event hosted by the Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District on October 7 at 7pm at the Brecksville Community Center. For ticket info and more details, click here.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Ohio named in Top 10 for Fall Colors


Today is the first official day of autumn. In a recent travel article on msn.com, Ohio was included in a list of the "10 spectacular places to see fall foliage," ranking right up there with Aspenm, Colorado and two locations in the leaf-peeping stronghold of New England.

We knew Ohio was a beautiful place all along, and one of the best ways to enjoy our fall colors is with a bike ride in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The view is great, whether you take to the roads or stick to the car-free Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

Don't have a bike of your own? Century Cycles offers bicycle rentals from our store in Peninsula, where you can ride from the store right onto the trail, and spin for an hour or two, or make a day of it!

Monday, September 20, 2010

CVNP Releases Draft Trail Management Plans; public meeting scheduled this week

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park has released a draft of its new Trail Management Plan, with several options for whether and/or how to expand the trail system within the park. Out of six options outlined in the plan, three of them (options 4, 5, and 6) include mountain bike trails.

You can download and read the entire plan by clicking here.

There are three public meetings scheduled this week, where you can review the plan and provide your feedback. Mountain bikers of Northeast Ohio, show up and be heard! The dates and times for the meetings are:
  • Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 2:30pm
  • Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 6:30pm
  • Thursday, September 23, 2010, 6:30pm
The location of all three meetings is the Happy Days Visitor Center on State Route 303 in Peninsula (about a mile off of State Route 8).

Night Ride photos - Sept. 18, 2010

This past Saturday, we had 112 riders show up for this perfect late summer evening. We got a special treat on this ride - the Nickel Plate 765, a huge 2-8-4 steam locomotive, came through Peninsula at about 7:00pm (see photo) and, upon its return, passed by the Station Road Bridge Trailhead right when we were there for the turnaround!



Thanks to Doug for the photos! (If you can't see the slide show above, try clicking here to view it on our web site.)

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Katie Spotz rides again!

We are incredibly honored to have helped Katie Spotz get back on a bike this past week. And we're incredibly stoked to know she almost immediately named the bike "Phoenix."

Here's the story:

In late August of 2010, the Cleveland cycling community was disheartened to learn that Katie Spotz, the Mentor, Ohio native who has become an international celebrity for her athletic and philanthropic achievements, was the victim of a robbery. Katie's 2000 Dodge minivan was stolen from a Cleveland parking lot. The van was recovered by police a week later, but the loss of the contents was even greater.

Inside the van was her Giant OCR Composite 2 bicycle, which she purchased from Century Cycles back in 2006 and used on a cross-country ride to honor her grandmother who had recently passed away, and raise awareness for lung disease. Also in the van were a custom made set of oars worth $2000, which Katie used in early 2010 for a record-setting solo row across the Atlantic Ocean to raise money and awareness for clean water projects around the world.

When longtime Spotz supporters at the Chagrin Valley Rotary Club reached out to Century Cycles about doing something, Century Cycles owner Scott Cowan agreed to help and immediately contacted Giant Bicycles. On September 15, she was presented with a brand-new 2011 Giant Defy Advanced 1, jointly donated to her by the Chagrin Valley Rotary Club, Century Cycles, and Giant Bicycles.

In an email to Century Cycles following the presentation, Katie wrote:

Yesterday was truly a day I will never forget. You all have gone so far above and beyond in making me feel special. Every time I ride this bike, I will be reminded of how much you care for and support me. I cannot wait to get on the road again and do more adventures with it.

Words cannot describe my sincerest gratitude for helping me put the pieces together again. As any cyclist would know, a bike means a lot. But more than a bike, knowing there are people like you looking out for me, truly means the world.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!


She also explained how she came up with the name of "Phoenix" for her new bike:

Call me crazy, but I think I have a name for the bike. And it's Phoenix. And the meaning: A person or thing regarded as uniquely remarkable in some respect. Or, in classical mythology, a unique bird that lived for centuries and rose from ashes with renewed youth to live through another cycle. Cool, huh?

Very cool.

For more photos and links to news stores about Katie and her adventures, go to:

5 Tips: Dressing for Fall Riding

Autumn in Northeast Ohio brings some of the best cycling conditions of the year, but riding in the fall also means spending a little more time planning your outings, especially when considering what to wear to stay comfortable.

Choosing the right clothing for the weather can be challenging even for experienced riders; Bicycling Magazine has even attemtped to address the problem by programming this tool to help you pick what to wear. Try it and let us know what you think of it--do the recommendations it makes match what you would have picked on your own?

Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable and safe on your late-season rides:

1. Get arm warmers and leg warmers to conveniently adapt to quickly-changing temperatures. These clothing items may look a little funny, but once you try them, you'll be convinced that they provide the ultimate in versatility and convenience for when the day turns from cold to warm or from warm to cold. When you take them off mid-ride, they are small enough to easily stuff into your jersey pockets. Lightweight liner gloves can fit under your regular cycling gloves, and are another small, easy-to-carry item to help adapt to different temperatures.

2. Be prepared for wet weather by carrying a light jacket. An unexpected rain shower during a hot summer ride isn't too dangerous; some cyclists even welcome such a refreshing splash. During the non-summer months, however, even if temperatures are only mildly cool, such a rain can be dangerous--you can develop hypothermia in temperatures as high as in the 60s. There are a variety of lightweight jackets that provide different levels of protection for cold air and rain; most of them pack up small enough to carry in your jersey pocket, or you can tie it around your waist, strap it to a cargo rack, or stow it in a trunk bag or handlebar bag. Some jackets have zip-off sleeves, combining the protection of a regular jacket and a vest, and the versatility of arm warmers.

3. Try wool clothing for comfort in a wide range of temperatures. We've expounded on the virtues of wool here before, and we'll do it again! Wool is nature's technical fabric--it keeps you warm even when it's wet, and it wicks moisture as well, if not better, than the latest high-performance synthetic materials. A wool jersey makes a great base layer under a jacket for cold conditions, but the latest lightweight wool items even feel great in the summer! Try some lightweight wool socks in summer or winter, and your feet will thank you. And don't worry about that itcy feeling like you got from that bulky wool sweater that your grandmother bought you for your birthday years ago; today's fine merino wool is just as smooth and comfortable as cotton!

4. Remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and use a headlight and taillight. Without the summer sun and humidity beating down on you, you might not feel the urge to drink as much water or other fluids, but don't forget that it's still just as important to stay hydrated. Also, even in overcast skies, the sun can be just as dangerous on exposed skin as in the summer. With fall's late sunrises and early sunsets, you may find yourself out on the road in less-than-ideal conditions for visibility. If you plan on riding in the dark on a regular basis, it's wise to invest in a high-intensity rechargeable light system. If you just want to have a backup in case you end up being out a little longer than expected in the dusk, an inexpensive headlight and taillight are adequate to help make sure you're seen by motorists.

5. Bring a change of clothes, or at least a warm jacket, to wear after the ride. Even when it's cold, you're still going to sweat while pedaling. If you manage to stay at a safe and comfortable temperature during the ride, it may be during the post-ride cool-down that you need to worry about avoiding the chills. Unless you're ending your ride at home, bring a dry set of clothes to change into for the drive home, or for the group get-together at the coffee shop. If it's not practical to change clothes, bring along a warm jacket that you can put on over your cycling clothes, such as the popular new Pearl Izumi Thermal Hoody, shown here being modeled by Doug from the Peninsula store.

Stop by any of our three stores to try on these and other clothing items from the new Pearl Izumi Fall Collection, as well as a full selection of lights, socks, and much more from all of our favorite brands.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Free women's bike maintenance and safety clinic on September 30

Century Cycles is hosting a free Women’s Bike Maintenance & Safety Clinic on Thursday, September 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at its store in Rocky River. The special instructor for this ladies-only clinic is Jackie Baker, a pro rider and expert trainer from Giant Bicycles who is a liaison from their comprehensive Giant for Women program.

Meet Jackie and learn from the pro! The clinic's topics are how to change a flat tire (the #1 bike maintenance skill), Jackie’s five-minute bike safety checklist (to make sure a bike is good to go before a ride) , and her road-or-trailside survival tips should you break down away from home (and nobody is answering their cell phone to come pick you up).

Wine, cheese and other refreshments will be provided. Attendees can also register to win a $50 Century Cycles gift card!

This event is FREE and no registration is required. This clinic is being held at Century Cycles' Rocky River store at 19955 Detroit Road, next to Herb's Tavern. For more information, call Century Cycles in Rocky River at 440-356-5705 or go to www.centurycycles.com.

About Jackie Baker
Jackie Baker from Giant for Women is an expert at helping women feel more confident riding and maintaining their road and mountain bikes. She grew up riding horses in Ohio, but has been riding and racing mountain bikes since moving to the Rocky Mountains in 1997. She's raced cross country, spent several years racing downhill as a pro, can hold her own on a road bike, and has even dabbled in track and BMX racing. Before joining the Giant for Women team, Jackie was a coach for Bikeskills. She now travels the country in her Giant for Women van (affectionately named Gordo) filled with demo bikes, visiting Giant retailers and attending bike industry events to share her knowledge and expertise.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Medina staff lends a hand at H.G. Blake Elementary Bike Rodeo

This past Saturday, Sept. 11, Don and Petch from the Century Cycles store in Medina lent a hand with free bicycle safety inspections and other activities at the H.G. Blake Elementary School Bike Rodeo. Here are some photo highlights from the event:

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Party at Progressive Field for sustainable transportation Fri 9/17

GreenCityBlueLake has been a hub of an advocacy campaign to improve the look and function of the next Innerbelt Bridge in Cleveland.


Join them for a Free FIRST CLASS event for Ohio’s second class transportation citizens.

Progressive Field opens their doors for music, fun and celebration, Friday September 17th, from 5-9pm! Enter the Party at Progressive Field at Gate C on E. 9th Street. Discounts for food and drinks are available.

Music: Headliner Carlos Jones and friends (Cleveland reggae star and a voice of Cleveland music for decades), Ari Lesser Filmstrip, John Hanley Band and others.

Food and Drinks: Stadium concessions are available with food and drinks, with discounts available.

Information: Learn about activities in your area and what you can do to bring about safe “complete streets” and sustainable transportation. Join in and help shape our future!

“Complete Streets” are the result of affirmative planning by cities to design streets with all modes of transportation in mind. “Complete Streets” incorporate the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, public transportation, young and old in a comprehensive design plan, not a fix, retro-fit or after-thought. Northeast Ohio is moving ahead, embracing sustainability, “Complete Streets” and healthy transportation options. Join in the fun!

Special early events for the performers and patrons celebrating Yom Kippur! Please join in!

Free valet bike parking! Cyclists, ride your bicycles to the event, with valet bicycle parking to be provided by the Ohio City Bicycle Co-Op and ClevelandBikes. Helmets are strongly suggested, and bike lights will be available for purchase.

The event is sponsored by: ClevelandBikes; EarthDay Coalition; Greater Cleveland YMCA; Green City Blue Lake Institute; Ohio City Bicycle Co-Op, Walk and Roll Cleveland.

Cross-country cyclist stops in Medina

The latest bicycle-touring visitor stopped by the Century Cycles store in Medina yesterday. His name is Roman Iacobucci, and he left from San Francisco on June 25. He's headed to Portland Maine, and has made stops in Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado, Newton, Kansas; Clinton, Missouri; Chester, Illinois; and Owensboro, Kentucky.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Surly News for 2011

In a sneak-preview post on the Surly Bikes Blog, the guys from Surly are showing the new and improved stuff coming later this year and for 2011. Since the announcement of the Big Dummy in late 2007 and its eventual arrival in early 2008, there have not been any "major" new products coming out of Surly World Domination HQ for a while, and so they're making up for it in a big way this year.

Instead of stealing all of their images and re-typing all the stuff, I'll just let you go straight to their post for all the details: http://surlybikes.com/blog/2386/

For you executive types that don't have time for an extra mouse click, here's an executive summary:

New bike: Troll
  • 26-inch wheeled mountain bike
  • Geared or singlespeed compatible
  • Rack eyelets
  • Disc or v-brake compatible
  • Rear disc mount on chainstay for rack and fender friendliness
  • Steel frame and fork (duh)
  • Ready for racing, commuting, adventure, and you name it
Updated: Big Dummy
  • Redesigned top tube
  • Lower price for complete bikes
Updated: 1x1
  • Still going strong after all these years
  • Redesigned top tube
  • Any color you want, as long as it's black
Updated: Karate Monkey
  • Redesigned top tube
  • Rack mounts added
  • Black still available; Chum Bucket Red is out; new color: Battleship Gray
Updated: Pugsley
  • New color: Snowblind White
  • Available as a complete bike
Updated: Cross-Check
  • Beef Gravy Brown Color is out; new color: Robin's Egg Blue
  • Mid-blade rack eyelets added to fork
Updated: Steamroller
  • Still available in Black; Creamroller is out; new color: Meth Teeths Green
  • Complete bike comes with new Surly Open Bar instead of road drop handlebar
New Product: Cargo Trailer
  • Two-wheeled flatbed trailer
  • 300 pound capacity
  • Highly customizable
  • Adjustable to work on almost any bike, from 20-inch to 29er wheels
This is a wholly-unconfirmed rumor, but the word on the street is that the new cargo trailer is going to be called...wait for it...wait for it...The Camel Tow.

Look for more pictures and in-person impressions next week as we check this stuff out at the Interbike industry trade show in Las Vegas.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Pearl Izumi Fall Collection has arrived!

The new editions of the Pearl Izumi cycling apparel for the fall season is arriving in all three Century Cycles stores today. We've got a fresh selection of long sleeve jerseys, tights, gloves, and other items to keep you riding now and through the winter!

Here's Michael in the Peninsula store, who had the ardous task yesterday of organizing the shipment and tagging and sorting each item to send to Medina and Rocky River:


We've picked a couple of our favorites to show off here, such as Doug sporting the new Pearl Izumi Thermal Hoody:


And Laura taking a break from her duties in the rental barn to show off the new Pearl Izumi Women's Thermal Hoody:


Both items are great for casual spins on your cruiser bike down to the local coffee shop, or for chilling out pre-ride or post-ride on chilly fall mornings. Stop into any of our stores to check out the new Fall cycling line from Pearl Izumi!

Southbound bicycle touring pair visits Medina

The Century Cycles store in Medina had some visitors touring by bicycle on Tuesday of this week. Ed and Tom started their trip in Toronto, and are headed to Memphis. While in the store, they upgraded to some new cycling shoes, pedals, and a Brooks saddle, and then waited a while for a thunderstorm to pass through during the afternoon before they continued on their journey.

See more pictures of bike-touring visitors we've had in all three of our stores at: www.centurycycles.com/for/touring

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Couple from The Netherlands Cycle-Touring in Canada and the US

Harry and Grietje Everts are from the city of Meppel in The Netherlands. They started their bicycle journey in Montreal, Quebec, and made their way to Niagara Falls, and now are following the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route down to Alabama, where they plan to visit with relatives living there. They stopped into the Century Cycles store in Peninsula on Sept. 8, 2010.

Sept. 11, 2010 Update: You can follow the pair's progress on their blog at: http://www.harryengrietjefietsen2010.wordpress.com/

If you can't read Dutch, there is a link on the site to an English-language summary!

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Follow Ryan and Davin as they bicycle around the world!

This is Ryan Delamater. As of today, he is about one week into an 18-month long trip around the world by bicycle, with his friend Davin Anderson. Ryan stopped into our Peninsula store the day before starting his trip to stock up on some last-minute essentials.


Here are Davin and Ryan in Hudson, just before leaving and taking the first pedal strokes of their trip on Sept. 1, 2010. They are riding as one of several projects as part of the group known as Give Clean Water, whose aim is to raise money and awareness for clean drinking water in the country of Fiji.

You can check out the group's web site at http://www.givecleanwater.org/ and follow Ryan and Davin's trip at http://ryandelamater.blogspot.com/. You can also follow them on Facebook; search for "Ride4Water." Good luck, guys!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Pictures from the Aug. 27, 2010 Night Ride on the Towpath Trail

Here are some photos from our last Night Ride on the Towpath Trail on Aug. 27, 2010. We had 134 riders attending, who were treated to views of the International Space Station passing through in the sky overhead!



(Click here if the slide show is not appearing on your screen.)

We've got THREE more Night Rides on the Towpath Trail left this season--it's not too late to join in the fun!
  • Saturday, September 18: Our regularly-scheduled FREE Night Ride, beginning at 8:00pm.
  • Saturday, October 2: A special Night Ride event -- Registration is required; $20 per person, all to benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland. The ride will start at 7:00pm. For more details and online registration, see: www.centurycycles.com/goto/RMHNightRide
  • Saturday, October 16: This FREE Night Ride will help kick off Cleveland Beer Week! The ride will start at 7:30pm with costumes, prizes, and an exclusive keg-tapping afterwards at The Winking Lizard in Peninsula! More details to come...
Never been to a Night Ride on the Towpath before? Go to www.centurycycles.com/for/nightrides for all the details you need, including directions and links to photos and videos from past rides, so you can see what to expect!

Monday, September 6, 2010

Happy Labor Day Deal!

Even though Century Cycles is closed for the holiday, here's a great deal on labor as our way of saying "Happy Labor Day" -- exclusively for our blog readers, Facebook friends, and eNewsletter subscribers! Here's your chance to save on the bicycle tune-up of your choice and get your bike running like new for the awesome fall riding ahead.

To redeem, simply print the coupon above and bring it in with your bike at your convenience (no appointment necessary). Can't decide what tune-up is right for you? Click here to read what each tune-up entails, or consult with one of our expert mechanics when you come in -- they'll be happy to help and let you know what the turnaround time is.

(Psst...Remember the Summer Clearance Sale that ended yesterday? You heard it here first that it has been EXTENDED until Sunday, September 19 [or while supplies last] to give you a few more weeks to stock up on summer cycling essentials -- jerseys, shorts, shoes and sandals, and short-finger gloves -- at a whopping 30% off!)

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Giant BMX Team Riders visit Cleveland

Professional BMX Team Giant riders Troy Merkle and Tony Cherry recently visited Cleveland, and spent the day with some friends doing some tricks on the city's streets (and buildings). Check out some highlights in this video from VitalBMX:


Saturday, September 4, 2010

Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Arrives in Cleveland on September 13

The Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride is a cross-continental bike ride to build awareness and Congressional support to fight Alzheimer's Disease, conceived by Dr. Bruce Lamb, a researcher at The Cleveland Clinic and professor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.

The ride started in San Francisco on July 17, and will end in Washington, DC on September 21. The group arrives in Cleveland on September 13. You can meet Dr. Lamb, as well as other riders, including researchers Dr. Sanjay Pimplikar and Dr. Bill Lynch.

When: Monday, September 13, 2010, 8:00am
Where: Crile Mall on E. 100th St. between Carnegie and Euclid
Parking: E. 100th St. Garage at corner of Carnegie

Please come rain or shine!
  • Meet the riders
  • Cheer the riders as they depart at 8:15am
  • Play the Brainiac game and get a squishy brain!
  • Sign the Congressional petition!
See www.alz.org/breakthroughride for more information.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Night Ride on October 2 to benefit Ronald McDonald House


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Century Cycles Night Ride on the Towpath Trail on October 2 to benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland

PENINSULA, Ohio (September 3, 2010) – After 15 years of organizing free nighttime bicycle rides, Century Cycles is charging $20 per person for an upcoming Night Ride on the Towpath Trail on Saturday, October 2. Charging for a Night Ride is not a new policy for the local bike store. Instead, it is to help a very worthy cause: All of the proceeds from this very special Night Ride are going to The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland.

The Century Cycles Night Ride to benefit the Ronald McDonald House on Saturday, October 2, at 7 p.m. is 13-mile moonlit bicycle ride on one of Northeast Ohio’s most popular bicycling paths. Enjoy a fun evening experiencing the nocturnal sights and sounds of the Towpath Trail while pedaling to help provide a home-away-from-home for families whose children are receiving medical care at area hospitals.

The Night Ride will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 2, in the parking lot of the Century Cycles bicycle store in Peninsula (1621 Main Street), next to the Winking Lizard restaurant on Route 303. The event will include a pre-ride raffle and cycle-your-own smoothies, as well as snacks at the ride’s turnaround point. The first 300 registrants receive a free event t-shirt. Cost: $20 per person. To register online and for more information, go to www.centurycycles.com/goto/RMHNightRide.

The Century Cycles Night Ride on the Towpath Trail to benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland is made possible thanks to the underwriting support of Century Cycles, Sigma Tau Theta International Honor Society of Nursing (Nu Delta Chapter), and Elyria Plastic Products.

About Century Cycles Night Rides on the Towpath Trail


Now in their 15th year, Century Cycles Night Rides on the Towpath Trail are free group bicycle rides at night along one of the area’s most popular bike paths – the Towpath Trail in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. They attract hundreds of bicyclists who enjoy it as a fun family outing, a unique date night, or a just a casual bicycle ride with friends by moonlight. Held from April through October, Century Cycles Night Rides are casual rides (not races) open to all skill levels and participants are encouraged to go at their own pace.

The rides start in the parking lot of the Century Cycles store in Peninsula (1621 Main Street). Parking is available at the Lock 29 Trailhead and at its overflow lot to the north. Because Night Rides take place after the sun has gone down and there is no lighting on the Towpath Trail, a bike light is very necessary and mandatory. All participants must have their own bicycle and wear a bike helmet. Children 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Never biked a Night Ride? Visit www.centurycycles.com/goto/nightrides to learn more about what to expect, to watch videos from recent rides, and to see photo archives.

About The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland

The Ronald McDonald House® of Cleveland, Inc. supports families whose children receive treatment at area medical centers by providing a home-like environment and essential resources and services.

Families are stronger when they are together, and their presence helps a sick child heal faster and cope better. While we cannot make medicine taste better or take away painful treatments, we can help lessen the burden and ensure families have the stability and resources to get and keep their child healthy and happy. Since 1979, our House has been a home away from home for over 31,000 families who have needed to stay close to their hospitalized child.

About Century Cycles

Founded in 1992, Century Cycles is an award-winning, locally-owned chain of independent bicycle stores in Medina, Peninsula, and Rocky River, providing high-quality bicycles and friendly, expert service to northeast Ohio bicyclists and their families. Century Cycles is an authorized dealer of Raleigh, Giant, Diamondback, Electra, Surly, Masi, Bianchi, and Haro bicycles, as well as Santana tandems. The Peninsula store also rents bicycles year-round for riding on the Towpath Trail in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

For eight consecutive years, Century Cycles has been voted one of the top 100 bicycle retailers in the United States by Bicycle Retailer & Industry News magazine. Century Cycles has been awarded Bike Shop of the Year, a national award bestowed by members of the League of American Bicyclists.

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Thursday, September 2, 2010

Stolen Bicycle - Please Help!

Katie Spotz, a Mentor, Ohio native, become an international celebrity earlier this year when she became the youngest person to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Her adventure also raised funds and awareness of the need to create safe drinking water for billions of people in need around the world. You can read about her journey and the cause at: http://www.rowforwater.com/

Back in 2006, Century Cycles helped Katie prepare for a previous adventure, when we outfitted her with a Giant OCR Composite 2 road bicycle, which she then proceeded to pedal 3,300 miles across the USA, in memory of her grandmother, who had recently passed away from lung disease.

Katie was recently a victim of a robbery, where she lost the bike, as well as her car and other sports equipment, including the oars she used on her Trans-Atlantic row. The incident is a great loss for Katie, in terms of both the monetary and sentimental value of the items.

The bicycle is a black/carbon fiber color, with blue highlights:
If you have any information about the bicycle or any of the other items, please e-mail us at info@centurycycles.com.

CLOSED for Labor Day


Please note: All three Century Cycles stores will be CLOSED on Monday, September 6, 2010 in observance of the Labor Day holiday.

We will be open for our regular hours all other days:

Friday and Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sunday: 12-5pm