A Different Take On the Benefits of Training Indoors

February 26, 2015

2014 Giant Trance Adv. 1 27.5-1It’s winter. It’s cold. There’s snow on the ground.  And, when the snow melts, it’s still cold – and wet. Many brave winter cycling and enjoy it with layering and a designated winter bike to ride. But, most of us suffer inside.  The first few weeks of indoor training seems to be bearable; however, as the weeks continue without any hopes of prolonged outdoor riding in sight, the indoor workouts get shorter.  Or, they don’t happen at all.  The problem is, consistency in training is critical to prepare your body for the physical stresses of the season ahead.

How do you make peace with indoor training?  How can indoor training actually support consistency in training?

It may seem obvious, but scheduling workouts on the same day every week will help with consistency.  By creating a repeating schedule that you know works for you you minimize the chances to missing a workout. The post, 4 Habits to Increase Your Consistency, offers more suggestions on increasing consistency, such as, being purposeful, following your plan as best as possible, and getting in shorter rides when you have less time to train.

But motivation is key to maintaining consistency.  When lack of training motivation rears its ugly head, you don’t have to be a victim to it, take action.  The post, Surviving the Winter as a Cyclist, shares some great “fortune cookie wisdom” in that the hardest part is just getting started.  “Whether it’s starting your workout for the day, or jumping back into training after you’ve been “off the wagon” for a while, getting going is tough. That’s the law of inertia. An object at rest wants to stay at rest. But on the flip side, once an object is in motion, it wants to stay in motion.  The key here – start pedaling.  Make a time commitment to stay on the bike for 30 minutes to see how you feel.  By then, most likely you’ll be into the ride and lack of motivation is disappearing.

If cycling indoors just isn’t your thing, accept it.  But don’t give up! Trade saddle time for gym time to gain core strength.  The primary focus when it comes to strength exercises for cyclists is to train in a similar motion to cycling with lower and upper body, while increasing overall core strength and muscular endurance. Check out The Best Strength Exercises for Cyclists or 7 Hip and Core Exercises for Endurance Athletes to get you started and also, to keep you motivated through the winter months.

You may also consider doing yoga.  In cycling, the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips never rest. As a result, riders often have overdeveloped quadriceps and tight hamstrings, which can pull the hips out of alignment. Also, a cyclist’s spine is constantly flexed forward. If proper form isn’t maintained, it can result in muscle pain and strain in the back and shoulders. Yoga helps ease the tightness, creating core strength, and aligning the spine.  Even if you aren’t into yoga, there are 3 poses you should practice.

When you think about it, indoor training doesn’t have to be as bad as you think.  Options are available.  And, you may just give winter riding another chance too!  Winter riding can be equally as fun as Summer riding given you have the right cycling apparel, you know how to dress for winter riding, and you have the right bike parts in your winter toolkit.

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Top Fat Bike FAQ’s

February 19, 2015

Fatboy at BikeParts.comFat bikes – they’re all the rage! While many consider fat bikes to be a trend, they are, in fact, here to stay!  The hottest trend in the mountain biking world right now is the oversized bike that can accommodate tires up to 5 inches wide.  Yet, as popular as they are, many have yet to experience this cycling bliss!  Following are the top frequent asked questions we get at Peak Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado.

Why should I ride a Fat bike?  Fat bikes behave much like a mountain bike but, in many cases, they are much more versatile. You can practically ride them anywhere and they are particularly useful during winter rides in snowy conditions. They are also great beginner bikes and will make you feel like an 8 year-old again, bouncing  gleefully all over the trails.

How are fat bikes different than other mountain bikes?  Many fat bike models today are similar to “normal” mountain bikes, which have slacker head tube angles, lower stand-over heights, thru axles, and tapered head tubes.  The main difference is the tires. The wider ties have more traction in both dirt and snow. They climb better than almost any mountain bike and the fit tires provide greater cushion that feels like extra suspension.  But what makes them special is they entice you to ride outside when it’s cold! According to the post, Fat Biking 101: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Biking in the Snow, most people do not ride when it is cold because, well, it’s cold. Fat bikes offer a unique experience and allow you to explore familiar trails in a new light. Fat biking lifts the winter doldrums by giving you a new freedom to ride off-road.

In what kind of conditions can I ride my fat bike? Fat bikes can ride pretty much anywhere. They do really well on dirt but they are also very capable in the snow. Packed snow will feel very much like riding on dirt. Pushing through heaps of freshly fallen snow will provide more of a challenge and there will be some days when riding is simply impossible. Remember, while sliding around on ice may be fun, ice is ice. The bike will still go down if you are not careful riding on slippery substances.

How do I stay warm on my fat bike in the winter?  You have to think a little bit harder before and during your fat bike rides in the cold. Generally the most important tip for keeping warm is to layer, and to carry a pack to put your extra layers away. Some people prefer to wear ski goggles and a ski helmet, and lots of people wear winter boots.  Poagies, insulated hand covers that slip over your handle bars, are also very useful for keeping your hands warm.   Keeping your feet warm is key. Wearing arm boots, preferably water proof, with thick socks on flat pedals or clipless boots with multiple pairs of socks will help to keep your feet comfortable.

How do I keep my water from freezing?  Even though you might not feel the urge to drink as much when riding your fat bike in the cold, it is still important to drink fluids. There are a couple of tricks your water from freezing. During shorter rides, carry an insulated water bottle and start with really warm water. You can also add electrolytes or other ingredients to change the freezing point of the fluid, but may find limited success. When using a CamelBak or something similar, stick the bite valve in your jacket and blow out all the water in your hose. You can also buy neoprene insulators for the hydration hose to help keep water as a liquid substance.

Should I use clipless or flat pedals on a fat bike?  It’s your choice! The biggest problems people have making this decision is deciding how to best keep their feet warm. Having flat pedals will allow you to wear thick winter boots, which are more conducive to keeping your feet warm. However you can buy clipless boots that are designed to handle colder temperatures. Using a clipless pedal could prove annoying in snowy terrain if you have to dismount and remount frequently during your ride.

What kind of tires should I use? How wide? What pressure do I run? Tube vs. Tubeless?  You have to match tire pressure with conditions. Softer snow conditions: 6psi. Harder conditions: 8-10psi. (much lower than the normal bike). Fat-bike tires are typically marked as 26 x 4.0 though most are really more like 26 x 3.7 or 3.8. The actual size of the mounted tire will vary depending on the rim width used for the wheel.  Many riders prefer tubeless because they reduce over a point of rotation weight and they provide better traction.

What kind of fat bikes are on the market?  The fat bike market has exploded in recent years. Brands include Specialized, Mongoose, Polaris, Kona, Gravity, Kawasaki, Borealis and more! Manufacturers are creating frames out of tons of different materials including aluminum, carbon, titanium, bamboo, real steel, and Wal-Mart steel. Most fat-bikes that you will come across have a fully rigid frame. However fat bikes with front fork suspension and full-body suspension have started to emerge.

Finding the fat bike that works for you will depend on the type of riding that you do and, more importantly, your budget.  However, at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we are all big fans of the Specialized Fatboy Bike. We have found the Specialized Fatboy to be a highly rated, mid-range fat bike that is usable for a wide range of ages and skill-levels.   In fact, the Fatboy was rated as the best mid-range fat bike in 2014 by Gear Patrol, a magazine that covers the best in gear, adventure, and design.  

Where can I ride my fat bike? Fat biking is abuzz in Colorado. Colorado is already a favorite state for cyclists due to the mountainous terrain, rugged trails, scenic views, and outdoorsy population. But now, Colorado is a hot destination for the fat bike phenomenon.  There are also a ton of really fun fatbike events across the nation.

Whew! Lots of questions but one final one.  Are you feeling the urge to take on this fun fat bike phenomenon? Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado.  Check out our fat bike bike selections, cycling apparel, hydration strategies, fat bike bike parts, and accessories.  Plus, get even more of your questions answered in person!

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Posted by staffwriter8

A Cyclist Guide to Finding True Love for Valentine’s Day 

February 12, 2015

1014475_982878108456239_2622874834446561174_nRacing heart. Sweaty palms. Fixated focus.  All classic signs of love at first sight.  Notably, signs to display to your significant other on Valentine’s day.

Yet, as many cyclist well know, those very symptoms are those we experience when racing and training – especially the fixated focus on the rider in front of us.  Some cyclist love to race. They live for it. Others love to train and don’t favor racing.  Whether you love it or hate it, true love is found on the bike and the cycling experience.

But what is true love on the bike exactly?  Like any good relationship, It’s all about reward and avoiding pain.

Reward: All good relationships are built on a solid foundation such as commitment and consistency to your cycling training program.  And, like any good relationship, it’s important to keep it fresh, try new things, and continue building forward.  Most cyclist are in it for the long haul but sometimes deviate from the plan and want a quick fix.  If you fall in that camp, you may opt for a bike fit.  It’s the quickest way to get faster on the bike.

But, if you find yourself committing long term, you may consider going a different route.  Focusing on year round strength training, discovering apps to support your fitness lifestyle, or even jumping in and trying a great fatbike event in 2015 can help you take your true love for cycling to another level.

Pain: Suffering on the bike is one thing.  Pain is another.  Suffering can garner greater fitness gains but pain can keep you from your true love completely.  One way to avoid pain is to be mindful of your bike parts, cycling accessories, and bio feedback.  You might be wondering, Can the Right Bike Parts Make a Difference in Injury Prevention?  Yes, absolutely.

To avoid painful cycling experiences, discover tips to prevent knee pain. You might be surprised that a little extra attentiveness and mindfulness to your bike and bike parts can go a long way in avoiding pain and pitfalls with your true love.

From all of us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, this Valentine’s Day, we encourage you to embrace your true love of cycling.

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Winter Cycling: How to Enjoy It with Winter Layering Basics

February 5, 2015
Jesse of BikeParts.com all bundled up in his winter cycling apparel

Jesse of BikeParts.com all bundled up in his winter cycling apparel

Cyclist ride in all weather conditions – from hot sun to cold and snowy conditions.  Now that winter is officially here, staying warm on the bike is crucial.   But how?  What is the best way to layer clothing for winter riding?

When you are riding, you want to balance your warmth and comfort with the intensity of your bike ride. If you are really bundled up when you start riding, you will likely want to start shedding layers. It may feel good to sweat in 25 degree weather, but you want clothes that are both breathable, wind-stopping, and sometimes waterproof. You also want to evaluate the type of ride you are doing? Is this a training ride? Will you be working really hard? Or are you just going to work?  At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado, we’ve been asked all of these questions.  Here is what we have found works, and works best!

Head: You can wear a buff or a cap. Buffs are really good for neck protection as well. Another option are balaclavas – especially so if you want to keep almost your entire face warm.

Eyewear: Sunglasses with yellow or orange lenses help to reduce the undulating motion of the snow surface. You can also get a solution to put on the lens to reduce moisture build up and prevent fogging.  While not as stylish as some of the cycling eyewear we carry on BikeParts.com, you could consider wearing goggles to help protect our eyes and face in snowy conditions.

Upper Body: The key with upper body warmth and comfort in the winter is layering.  Here in Colorado, as in other parts of the country as well, temperatures can change pretty quickly.  It’s best to plan ahead based on varying conditions, as well as, plan for your workout requirements.  You might find that you are either over dressed when you start working hard. Suggestions we make to customers include:

First: A light, long-sleeved jersey that has pockets in the back is a good base layer and gives you the opportunity to put extra cloths in the back pockets. Second: Put another thermal layer on top of the long-sleeved jersey. You want something fairly light, warm, and breathable. Finally, third: You want to top your upper body layering with a wind-stopper jacket that deflects wind and preferably is also waterproof.  Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle shop and see which brand fits you best: Endura, Mavic, or Pearl Izumi.

Hands: Cold hands makes it hard to maneuver the bike.  Definitely go for long-figured gloves or liner gloves with thicker gloves.  Fatbike riders may opt for porgies.

Lower Body: In the winter you want to have something covering your entire legs.  Fleece lined chamois are often a good choice. Many bikers also use cross country ski tights under their biking shorts.  Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop has Endura and Mavoc pants, chamois, which will all be good down to about 10 degrees.  There are also waterproof pants to keep the wet off your legs. This is important if you are riding in snowy conditions.

Feet: Who likes cold toes? Nobody!  It’s really important to keep the feet warm on winter rides.  Road and mountain bike cyclist may opt for thick wool socks.  Fatbike riders will want to go with insulated shoes with thick socks. If you can get waterproof shoes, that is even better. There are a number of options out there depending on if fatbike riders  want to ride with flat pedals or clip less pedals. Riding your fat bike in the winter, you can ride with winter snow boots which will keep your feet warm. If you are riding with clipless pedals, Specialized and other companies make insulated biking boots.  Regardless of what type of bicycle you are riding, polypropelene shoe covers are a must when keeping your feet warm because they deflect wind. You can also carry chemical toe warmers in case your feet get really cold.

Seeing is believing.  See for yourself how to layer for winter cycling. Check out our very own video – a great resource outlining when to add certain layers at certain temperatures.

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Posted by staffwriter8

Where to Ride Your Fatbike in Colorado

January 29, 2015

Fatbikes at BikeParts.comFat Biking is abuzz in Colorado. Colorado is already a favorite state for cyclists due to the mountainous terrain, rugged trails, scenic views, and outdoorsy population. But now, Colorado is a hot destination for a new phenomenon in the cycling world: Fat Biking.

Fatbikes can be used during any season and in any terrain, but they are most popular during the winter months and in snowy conditions. Fatbikes have made it possible for cyclist to bike all year, even in states like Colorado with snowy months.

Opportunities to fatbike are popping up all over the state. Nordic centers and ski resorts are beginning to allow fat bikers on groomed trails. Many ski areas also offer lessons with the help of staff instructors. Examples include:

  • Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System
  • Breckenridge Gold Run Nordic Ski Center
  • Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash
  • Latigo Ranch in Kremmling
  • Durango Mountain Resort
  • Howelson Hill Nordic Center in Steamboat Springs
  • Lake Catamount Touring Center in Steamboat Springs
  • Sunlight Mountain Resort
  • YMCA of the Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch

A number of nordic centers and fat bike enthusiasts are also hosting fatbike races. You might consider trying to race one of these:

Beerd Belly – Evergreen CO

Abominable Winter Fat Bike Race  – Como Colorado

Alley Loop Fat Bike Race – Crested Butte

Leadville Winter Mountain Bike Series:

              – Winterbike at Copper

              – Tennessee Pass Night Jam

              – Mineral Belt Mayhem

              – Eastside Epic

And that’s not all!  There are also fat bike tours in the Colorado area!

  • Paragon Outdoors in Telluride
  • Absolute Bikes Adventures in Salida
  • Front Range Guides in Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins
  • Break Bike Guides in Breckenridge

For our local customers BikeParts.com, you don’t have to go far to ride your fatbike.  There are some really great trails along the Front Range that are great for fatbikes. Some favorites include North Table Mesa in Golden.   In fact, why don’t you demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado?  Stay tuned for more upcoming blog posts on fatbike selections, cycling apparel, hydration strategies, fat bike bike parts, and accessories.  Or, take some time and enjoy the following posts for additional reading.

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9 Great Fatbike Events for 2015

January 22, 2015
Fatbikes at BikeParts.com

Fatbikes at BikeParts.com

We already told you why fat bikes are all the rage.  We’ve even shared Why We Love the Specialized Fat Boy Bike. Now, you need someplace to ride your fat bike, right?!  

Fatbikes are the hottest trend in the mountain biking world right now and not surprisingly, super fun fatbike events are popping up everywhere.  Following are our top 9 events to get in on the fat bike action.

4th Annual Global Fat-Bike Summit – Snow King Resort, Jackson Hole, WY -January 23-25th, 2015.  Hosted by QBP, along with Fitzgerald’s Bicycles, Hoback Sports, Wyoming Pathways, and Mountain Bike the Tetons/IMPA. Here’s what you can expect:

“On Friday the summit will focus on training sessions and panel discussions featuring the latest in the evolving world of best management practices for fat-bike use on public lands. Management practices will be discussed with a focus on winter use since the majority of access issues fall in the winter months. This interactive training day will include land managers from the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, and state and local governments, along with bike advocates and industry representatives.”

“The festival portion of the event begins Friday night with a fat-bike night ride and evening banquet, and continues through Saturday and Sunday with a variety of demo rides, product clinics, and riding events that include an optional guided fat bike tour of Grand Teton National Park.”

Winterbike at Copper – Leadville Series – Jan 24th, 2015.  Here’s why you want to try this event.  Join Copper and the Cloud City Wheelers for WinterBike, part of the Leadville winter mountain bike series. Competitors will ride into the night for this cross-country race slipping, sliding and riding on the mountain and throughout the Village. Make it a family affair and bring the tykes for LittleBike, a free fun ride.

Arrowhead 135 – Last week in January.  Here’s what separates the Arrowhead from the other events.  “The Arrowhead 135 is recognized in the book “The World’s Toughest Endurance Challenges” by Richard Hoad and Paul Moore as one of the 50 toughest races in the world.  It is a human powered Ultra Marathon taking place in the coldest part of winter in the coldest city in the lower 48 states.  Our average finish rate is less than 50%, the finish rate for new racers is much lower.  2014 finish rate was 35%.”

“135 miles Deep Winter across Northern Minnesota on rugged, scenic Arrowhead State Snowmobile Trail from Frostbite I-Falls to Tower, MN Fortune Bay Casino. Pick mode of transport at start: bicycle, ski or foot.  This is our 11th year, beginning with 10 entrants in 2005 to ~150 starters 2014, featuring some of the best winter ultra-athletes in the world.”  Obviously, this event isn’t for the faint of heart – but one definitely to aspire to doing!

Abominable Winter Fat Bike Race – Como, CO – January 31st, 2015.  If you are feeling a little wild, then this event might be for you.  Abominable events are for those with a little wild in them. Not for the timid, they are challenging you to come get after it in the whitest Colorado has to offer. On January 31st get “yeti” for a winter adventure run, fat bike rides hot chocolate and more. Grab your friends, hop in the car, and crank up the heat because it’s gonna be cold, wild one out there!

Alley Loop Fat Bike Race – Crested Butte, CO – February 6th, 2015.  This fun fatbike event takes place simultaneously with the 28th Annual Alley Loop Nordic Marathon.  If you have any skiers in the family, this is a great event to combine your two passions.  The plus side, for those on the fence about whether to race or not, they offer same day registration.

Big Fat Bike Festival – Homer AK – Feb 6-8th, 2015.  Concerned about getting cold while racing your fatbike?  Well, this event lures you in with a cozy bonfire about 8 miles in where you can warm up before venturing on or returning to the start.  “The ride is approximately 16 miles long (or more if you choose), follows the beautiful bluffs of the south shore with ample opportunity to enjoy the view.”

Tennessee Pass Night Jam – Leadville Series – Feb 7th, 2015.  This is part of the Leadville winter mountain bike series.  For customers of our Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and locals in Colorado, you’ll note the 12 mile course starts at Tennessee Pass Nordic Center, Tennessee Pass, and the cost of entry is $20.

Frozen Fat Fondo Fest – Davenport IA – Saturday, Feb 7th, 2015.  This event challenges you to be a fatbike hero!  “Make history being a part of FORC’s first Fat Bike challenge, the Frozen Fat Fondo Festival! The FFFFestival will be held — rain or shine, snow or slime — on the beautiful shores of the Mississippi River at the newly rebuilt Credit Island Lodge. Riders will test their mettle on a circuit featuring many technical challenges through thick lowland forest and chunky river shoreline on this 3 hour endurance ride. Participate as a 3-person relay team or solo. 3.5″ tires or greater required! All proceeds from this event benefit FORC to continue maintaining and improving local trails.”

Mineral Belt Mayhem – Leadville Series – March 7th, 2015.  Again, this is part of the Leadville winter mountain bike series.  However, this event starts at the mineral belt trail in Leadville, Colorado. Entry costs $20

US National Fat-Bike Championship – Cable, WI – March 7th, 2015. What? There’s a National Fatbike championship? Yep! That’s how popular these bikes and events are!  The 47-kilometer event will be, for the second year in a row be  the “U.S. National Fat Bike Championships” with cash prizes for the top three women and men. The field limit for the third annual Fat Bike Birkie on March 7, 2015, has been bumped up to 750 riders and is quickly filling.

Eastside Epic – Leadville Series – Apr 18th.  Another great event that is part of the Leadville winter mountain bike series.  This one starts in Leadville and entry is $20.

Does reading about all these great fatbike events make you curious about fat bike riding? Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado and stay tuned for more upcoming blog posts on fat bike bike selections, cycling apparel, hydration strategies, fat bike bike parts, and accessories.

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Posted by staffwriter8

When Lack of Training Motivation Rears Its Ugly Head – Do this!

January 15, 2015

training motivationIt’s tough being a bike rider from December through late March. Keeping up the motivation to exercise on a cold winter day instead of curling up under a warm blanket on the sofa can be difficult. Sometimes lack of motivation rears its ugly head during these challenging times despite our best efforts to press on.  Yet, this time of year, many cyclists, competitive and recreational, are fighting regular demons whether that is general fatigue, lack of time, seasonal illness or just plain boredom.

Granted, the amount of downtime you can afford to take in winter depends on your goals for the coming year. If you have a century ride, a bike trip, or a hard race scheduled for June or July, you can probably get away with a layoff.  On the other hand, if an athlete wants to maintain fitness over the winter it it’s important to you get your motivation in gear now to make these gains and keep your cycling training on track.  Here’s how. 

First, it’s important to review your goals for the coming year and create a supportive environment that supports your goals.  Is there a time of day that works best for you?  Then, schedule your training time.  Do you train better with a partner?  Then, enlist the help of your family and friends.  Is your bike riding properly?  Check out your bike components, determine which bike parts you need, and get your bike in proper riding condition.  Your primary objective in creating a support structure is to foster an environment in which you are supported and held accountable. This makes sitting on the sofa eating bonbons a little less attractive and harder to do!

Also, keep it fresh! Winter is a time to build for the year ahead.  Trade saddle time for gym time to gain core strength.  The primary focus when it comes to strength exercises for cyclists is to train in a similar motion to cycling with lower and upper body, while increasing overall core strength and muscular endurance. Check out The Best Strength Exercises for Cyclists or 7 Hip and Core Exercises for Endurance Athletes to get you started and also – to keep you motivated through the winter months.

Another option?  Focus on nutrition.  Many subscribe to the idea of eating pasta and carbs for fueling training and racing.  Yet, there is a growing shift in nutritional information towards a strong focus on vegetables, fruits and lean meats as fuel.  Consider experimenting with your diet and nutrition as a means for making gains in your 2015 cycling program.  For ideas, read Five Ways To Get Started With the Paleo Diet.

Everything else aside, if you still don’t feel compelled to train through the winter, then at least feast your eyes on bike parts, cycling accessories, and new bikes.  Or, bring your bike in for service at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop.  At a minimum, you are fueling your desire to ride when the weather improves!   But, what it boils down to is that an essential element to being a successful athlete is staying motivated throughout the year.  Remember, cycling is supposed to be fun.  Set small goals, create a supportive structure and atmosphere for your training environment, and you’ll be amazed at what you can do in 2015!

 

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Posted by staffwriter8

Why We Love the Specialized Fat Boy Bike 

January 8, 2015
Fatboy Specialized at BikeParts.com

Fatboy Specialized at BikeParts.com

Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop is passionate about fat bikes in the winter months. They are fun and versatile bikes that can be used in almost any terrain but are particularly useful in snowy conditions. With the explosion of enthusiastic fat bike cyclists over the past couple of years, new fat bike companies and models have formed in a rush to meet the demand. But with all of these new fat bike brands, how do you choose which fat bike is best for you?

We have found the Specialized Fatboy to be a highly rated, mid-range fat bike that is usable for a wide range of ages and skill-levels.   In fact, the Fatboy was rated as the best mid-range fat bike in 2014 by Gear Patrol, a magazine that covers the best in gear, adventure, and design. The following gives Gear Patrol’s review:

“Double-digit growth year after year has brought in the cycling industry big boys. The Fatboy is Specialized’s first bike in the category, and the big-name brand has delivered a lightweight frame and fork with 4.6-inch Specialized Ground Control tires, a fully butted M4 premium aluminum frame with 190mm rear spacing and a tapered head tube with clearance for five-inch tires. The lightweight frame and mix of quality components from SRAM, Tektro and Specialized at a reasonable price point make the Fatboy a great choice for beginners on up to experienced riders.”

If that isn’t exciting enough, Specialized has developed three different bikes including the Fatboy, Fatboy Expert, and the Fatboy Pro with front suspension. All three bikes share the M4 Premium Aluminum Frame and the Fatboy Expert and Fatboy Pro sport higher components such as Shimano Hydro Discs. While the Fatboy Pro offers more cushioned ride with its Bluto Suspension Fork and Sram’s XO1 rally sport package for a higher price, the other two bikes offer a solid build and smooth ride for lower budgets.

In a review, the Fatboy expert on fat-bikes.com, reviewer Gomez gave the bike a glowing report: “Our test bike purred like a kitten and did everything I could ask of it….I guess the first thing that I noticed, when riding the Fatboy were the tires. The Ground Control tires are a true to size, four point six inch, big and bad ass, knobby fat/mountain-bike tire. These tires are made for off roading. On my very first ride with the Ground Controls when I was climbing a steep asphalt hill, they brought back an instinctual memory of a familiar tactile feel similar to the best knobbies that I’ve ever ridden…. 26/29 or fat-bike….Climbing was outstanding and carving turns was confidence inspiring. Of course you can’t have all of that grip without some rolling resistance. If you’re looking for a tire that will answer the call for traction each and every time, the Ground Control is your huckleberry….This bike was born and bred to rip and shred!”

The fun isn’t exclusive to adults either!  Specialized has also created a 20” and 24” Fatboy for kids at half the price of a full sized Fat Boy. The two miniature bikes are featured in this short video that would excite any kid who loves to hop into the bike saddle and ride:

For a lighter ride, you can opt for lighter bike parts and also purchase tubeless tires and carbon rims.  All of which will make your FatBoy faster and more maneuverable.  Join the Fat Bike rage! Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop today or better yet – get your own!  There’s a Specialized Fatboy, Medium in black and red on sale now!!

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Specialized Fatboy Custom XT 2×10, Large, 2015, Blk/Red

January 7, 2015

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  • FRAME: Specialized M4 Premium Aluminum, fully butted w/ smooth welds, tapered headtube, post-mount disc dropouts, 190mm rear hub spacing, replaceable alloy derailleur hanger
  • FORK: Specialized FACT carbon, full monocoque, tapered steerer, 135mm hub spacing
  • HEADSET: 1-1/8 upper, 1-1/2 lower, Campy style, integrate d sealed cartridge bearings, split crown race, 3.8mm cone spacer
  • STEM: Easton EA70 31.8 Stem 84/96 degree 100mm
  • HANDLEBARS: Easton EA70 31.8 Hi Rise Alloy Handlebar 720mm
  • GRIPS: ESI Chunky Red
  • FRONT BRAKE: Avid BB7 Mtn Disc Brake Caliper and 180mm G2 Rotor Graphite
  • REAR BRAKE: Avid BB7 Mtn Disc Brake Caliper and 160mm G2 Rotor Graphite
  • BRAKE LEVERS: Avid FR-5
  • FRONT DERAILLEUR: SHIMANO XT Front Derailleur,FD-M785, 2×10, Top-swing, Dual-pull,Silver
  • REAR DERAILLEUR: SHIMANO XT RD-M786-GS-L Black XT Shadow Plus RD, long cage
  • SHIFT LEVERS: SHIMANO XT SL-M780, Shift Lever, Right & Left:10-Speed
  • CASSETTE: SHIMANO XT CS-M771-10 – Deore XT – 10-Speed – 11-13-15-17-19-21-24-28-32-36T
  • CHAIN: SHIMANO XT CN-HG95 10 Speed MTB Chain
  • CRANKSET: Custom e.thirteen, TRS+, PF30, 100mm spindle, w/ BB
  • CHAINRINGS: Praxis Works 36/22t
  • PEDALS: None
  • RIMS: Specialized Fatboy SL, alloy disc, single wall, 90mm wide, sleeve joint, hookless design, 32h
  • FRONT HUB: Specialized MTB Hi Lo disc, alloy, sealed cartridge bearings, 135mm wide, QR, 32h
  • SPOKES: Stainless, 2.0/1.8/2.0mm
  • FRONT TIRE: Specialized Ground Control Fat, 120TPI, folding bead, 26×4.6
  • REAR TIRE: Specialized Ground Control Fat, 120TPI, folding bead, 26×4.6
  • INNER TUBES: Standard, presta valve
  • SADDLE: Specialized Phenom Comp
  • SEAT BINDER: Alloy, 34.9mm
  • SEATPOST: Easton EA70 Zero Setback 2-Bolt Seatpost 400mm 30.9mm

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New Year Cycling Resolutions – A Visual Journey – Looking to the Past to Bring in a Bright Future

January 1, 2015

Out with the old – in with the new.  That’s pretty much the motto of the New Year.

As we transition from the last year into the new one, it causes many to reflect on the past. Thoughtfulness and evaluation of cycling progress and fitness gained, review of goals achieved, as well as, forward thinking dreams and compelling images of a future to live into. What will 2015 bring?

At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we invite you to join us on a visual journey of years past.  We also hope 2015 will bring more of what we’ve accomplished in servicing our customers these last few years.

Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop First Store FrontStaring with humble beginnings here in Golden, Colorado, not only has our shop grown locally, but it has also expanded world wide with our BikeParts.com website.

Cycling Apparel at BikeParts.comReflecting on our growth, it’s easy to attribute our growth to carrying quality brands like Giant, Specialized, Pearl Izumi and specialty bike parts.  Our highly rated bike parts and components have become favorites among many.

But offering the best cycling apparel and bicycles isn’t what has really fueled our growth.  No different than training, maintaining dietary and fitness routines, and racing to optimize fitness, our bike shop has focused on our own training regimen:  Quality customer care. Timely services repairs. Educated and informed product use.  Excellent bike fits. Bike Fits at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop

Fun shop rides. And most of all, fully supporting our local community and customers.  Looking to the past, it’s been rewarding to bring the Pro Cycling Challenge to Golden, Colorado.  We’ve embraced the sponsoring of bicycle recycling programs, local racers, and community events.

Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and US Pro Cycling Challenge Supporters

As we reflect on year’s past, it’s with gratitude to our customers, the City of Golden, and our fellow cyclist that we celebrate how far we’ve come.  More so, it is with enthusiasm and full commitment to serve and help our customers that we look to a bright and prosperous future.

Wishing you a year that is filled with all the joys, personal rewards, and the grand adventure that cycling brings.  Happy New Year 2015.

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Specialized Fatboy, Med, 2015, Blk/Red

December 30, 2014

Fatboy custom side

  • PRICE: ~~$3550.00 ~~
  • ON SALE for $3195.00

Read the rest of this entry »

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The True Christmas Spirit of Cycling

December 25, 2014
Merry Christmas from BikeParts.com

Merry Christmas from BikeParts.com

Have you been a naughty cyclist or a nice cyclist? Is there a way to tell?

Some cyclist might notice a lot of bike parts, cycling apparel, and other wonderful gifts under the tree and think, yeah! I’ve been nice!  And then, again, as competitive and recreational cyclists, it’s easy to be hard on ourselves.  Some might think that you’ve been a naughty cyclist.  Maybe you think you haven’t trained hard enough this year.  Or, your performance was down. Then again, you may consider yourself to be a naughty cyclist because you have been slacking off and didn’t get that scheduled ride in.

Whether or not all that is true – that isn’t the spirit of cycling.  No doubt, consistent training is essential to performance.  Having the right gear, bike parts, and appropriate road or mountain bike for your cycling specialty is important.  But, while we tend to strive for fitness using heart rate monitors and power meters and tracking calories and water intake, and all the performance enhancing rituals we employ, it’s certainly not the spirit of cycling and it is especially not so at Christmas time.

So, what is?

Here at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, the true Christmas spirit of cycling is the love of the bike.  It’s the adventure cycling brings – the challenge of a new ride, the joy of connecting with friends in meaningful ways, and the building of camaraderie with teammates.  It’s about inspiration.  Riding and training towards goals that call us to be our best selves and enlist the support of family and friends that unites in powerful connections.  At its essence, the true spirit of cycling is really about passion, joy, exhilaration, excitement, camaraderie, enthusiasm, and gratitude.

These are all the very gifts we wish for you and your family this Christmas day.  Merry Christmas from Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and BikeParts.com!

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Best Bike Gifts for Cyclist

December 18, 2014

Bike Gifts at BikeParts.comAre you stressing yourself out looking for the perfect holiday gift for your cyclist?   Look no further!  Surprise and delight your favorite cyclist with our list of best bike gifts for cyclist!

Stocking stuffer ideas are first and foremost! We mentioned in our post, Unique Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Cyclist, traditionally, stocking stuffers are smaller gifts that tend to pale in comparison to the main gifts under the Christmas tree. But with some creativity, don’t be surprised if our ideas for stocking stuffers turn out to be a big hit on Christmas morning.  The usual suspects for stocking stuffers include multi tools, tubes, bottles, socks, head warmers, arm warmers, shoe covers, gloves, lube, energy bars, gels, chews and similar items.  Smaller items that pack a big bang in your cyclist training regime include heart rate monitors and coaching gift certificates.

Combine these ideas with some items better placed under the tree, and you’re sure to delight your cyclist.  And what might these gifts be?  The very items that make cycling fun!  This list of gift items includes a variety of cycling apparel: jerseys, shorts, tights, jacket, cycling shoes and…..a new bike!  A  new road bike, mountain bike, or even a fat bike might just be the very gift your cyclist is hoping Santa will deliver!

Another option – give the gift of experience!  These are gifts that delight the whole year long!

Gift a Bike fit –  Does your cyclist complain of hands falling asleep while riding? Or shoulder or neck pain after a long ride? A bike fit isn’t just for professional riders – they are for anyone who rides whether they are a beginner or advanced rider. A bike fit helps ensure riding comfort but it also impacts technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries and how an athlete rides. Consider the gift of giving your favorite cyclist a bike fit for Christmas. Not only can we help them with the fit, but we carry all the bike parts required to get the bike in the very best setup for their riding needs.  Give us a call (303) 216-1616 or stop by the shop in Golden to schedule your bike fit.

Demo a fat bike!  That’s right! Fat bikes are all the rage – they thrive in snow, sand, desert, bogs and mud as well as riding what is considered normal mountain biking.  In fact, fat bikes are the fastest growing segment in the bike industry.  Book a fat bike demo for your favorite cyclist that will up the giggle factor to their normal winter riding program. Who can’t smile while riding a fat bike?

Gift an App that keeps on giving – Smart phones, apps, and technology are paving the way for increased year round fitness. Consider giving the gift of paid apps to help keep your cyclist on track. The post, Top 5 Apps for Cyclists for Off-Season Fitness Gains, offers great suggestions including Lose it!, Strava, and Sleep Cycle.

We’ve talked about gifts for your favorite cyclist, but what about the bike?  There are Gifts To Give Your Bike for Christmas! You haven’t forgotten about the two wheeled friend, now have you? Show some love for the bike this holiday season.  Get it some presents!

Your favorite cyclists’ bike’s #1 holiday wish would be to drop the weight – on bike components that is!  Consider getting a high quality wheel set.  A good wheel set impacts ride quality, ease of pedaling, reliability, and functionality.  Maybe purchase some new, lighter tires on your wheels. Another option is to reconsider the current crank set and pedals setup. You can help your favorite cyclist shave some weight there while also selecting lighter handlebars, a lighter saddle, and seat post.  Loosing weight never seemed so easy!

And last but not least, what is a cyclist dream gift?  Bike parts! What cyclist doesn’t love bike parts? Whether it’s a new shifters, brakes, seatpost, or fork, your favorite cyclist wants it.

See how easy it is to make your favorite cyclist smile this Christmas?  Happy Holidays!

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Are you Fat Bike Curious? The Questions You Want Answered! 

December 11, 2014
Fat Bikes at BikeParts.com

Fat Bikes at BikeParts.com

Fat bikes – they’re all the rage! While many consider fat bikes to be a trend, they are, in fact, here to stay!The hottest trend in the mountain biking world right now is the oversized bike that can accommodate tires up to 5 inches wide.

Fat bikes are hard to miss. Their bulbous, “fat” tires roll over virtually anything, which makes them an ideal winter mode of transportation because they help cyclists traverse snowy and icy trails with ease and traction.Sounds good, but why ride a fat bike? Fat bikes behave much like a mountain bike but, in many cases, they are much more versatile. You can practically ride them anywhere and they are particularly useful during winter rides in snowy conditions. They are also great beginner bikes and will make you feel like an 8 year-old again, bouncing gleefully all over the trails.

So, how are fat bikes different than other mountain bikes? Many fat bike models today are similar to “normal” mountain bikes, which have slacker head tube angles, lower stand-over heights, thru axles, and tapered head tubes. The main difference is the tires. The wider tires have more traction in both dirt and snow. They climb better than almost any mountain bike and the fat tires provide greater cushion that feels like extra suspension.

But what makes them special is they entice you to ride outside when it’s cold! According to the post, Fat Biking 101: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Biking in the Snow, most people do not ride when it is cold because, well, it’s cold. Fat bikes offer a unique experience and allow you to explore familiar trails in a new light. Fat biking lifts the winter doldrums by giving you a new freedom to ride off-road.

Sounds good so far, right? You might be wondering in what kind of conditions can you ride your fat bike? Fat bikes can ride pretty much anywhere. They do really well on dirt but they are also very capable in the snow. Packed snow will feel very much like riding on dirt. Pushing through heaps of freshly fallen snow will provide more of a challenge and there will be some days when riding is simply impossible. Remember, while sliding around on ice may be fun, ice is ice. The bike will still go down if you are not careful riding on slippery subs.

There are other factors to consider with fat bikes – as in, how to stay warm, best pedal and footwear options, and basically, how does a fat bike ride?

Are you curious about fat bike riding? Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado and stay tuned for more upcoming blog posts on fat bike bike selections, cycling apparel, hydration strategies, fat bike bike parts, and accessories.

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Unique Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Cyclist 

December 4, 2014
Stocking Stuffers at BikeParts.com

Stocking Stuffers at BikeParts.com

The Holiday Season is in full swing and if you have a cyclist or occasional bicycle rider on your Christmas list, it may be difficult to find just the right bike-related gift.

Traditionally, stocking stuffers are smaller gifts that tend to pale in comparison to the main gifts under the Christmas tree. But with some creativity and useful gifts for all types of cyclist, don’t be surprised if our ideas for stocking stuffers turn out to be a big hit on Christmas morning.
For starters, we’ll focus on small things — stuff that fits in a stocking.  These are the usual suspects:
  • Tubes: This is one gift you absolutely positively will get used. Make sure you get the right size of tube. If you aren’t sure, stop in the Peaks Cycling Store and ask one of our friendly staff to help you. Or, visit us online at bikeparts.com
  • A good bottle: Every cyclist has a ton of bottles, but that’s not the same as having good bottles. Buy a good bottle and stuff it with other goodies.
  • Socks: Did you know cyclist like to wear their cycling socks even when they aren’t riding?  Why? Because they are so comfortable.  Pick out a pair of socks you like for your cyclist and maybe even get a pair for yourself!
  • Warmers: We’re talking about head warmers, ear warmers, arm warmers, leg warmers, and shoe covers – all the necessities to keep your favorite cyclist warm and comfortable out on those chilly winter rides.  They nice thing about these is that they fit nicely in a holiday stocking in as much as they do a cycling jersey!
  • Gloves: Here’s another thing that every cyclist already has, but which every cyclist can always use more of.
  • Bike nutrition – as in Energy bars / gels / chews: Instead of chocolate, fill the stocking (or water bottle) with nutrition, bars, gels, and drinks
    your cyclist can use on the bike.
  • Lube: Every cyclist goes through it and we’ve got tons of it.
  • A gift for off the bike.  Maybe your cyclist would enjoy a pint glass, a poster, or some other bike parts goodie.
But what about the unique gifts?  These gift ideas could be the very wishes your favorite cyclist has dreamed of!
  • Gift a Bike fit –  Does your cyclist complain of hands falling asleep while riding? Or shoulder or neck pain after a long ride? A bike fit isn’t just for professional riders – they are for anyone who rides whether they are a beginner or advanced rider. A bike fit helps ensure riding comfort but it also impacts technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries and how an athlete rides. Consider the gift of giving your favorite cyclist a bike fit for Christmas. Not only can we help them with the fit, but we carry all the bike parts required to get the bike in the very best setup for their riding needs.  Give us a call (303) 216-1616 or stop by the shop in Golden to schedule your bike fit.
  • Demo a fat bike!  That’s right! Fat bikes are all the rage – they thrive in snow, sand, desert, bogs and mud as well as riding what is considered normal mountain biking.  In fact, fat bikes are the fastest growing segment in the bike industry.  Book a fat bike demo for your favorite cyclist that will up the giggle factor to their normal winter riding program.  Who can’t smile while riding a fat bike?
  • Gift an App that keeps on giving – Smart phones, apps, and technology are paving the way for increased year round fitness. Consider giving the gift of paid apps to help keep your cyclist on track. The post, Top 5 Apps for Cyclists for Off-Season Fitness Gains, offers great suggestions including Lose it!, Strava, and Sleep Cycle.
  • A cyclist dream gift?  Bike parts! What cyclist doesn’t love bike parts? Whether it’s a new saddle, shifters, brakes, seat post, fork, pedals, hubs or wheels, your favorite cyclist wants it.  The usual problem is how to know exactly what to get. Our answer, get a gift certificate.
Still need ideas for creative stocking stuffers?  Stop by the shop in Golden, Colorado or give us a call at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop (303) 216-1616 and we’ll gladly help you out!  Happy Holidays!

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An Attitude of Gratitude – Giving Thanks for Bicycling 

November 27, 2014
Happy Thanksgiving from BikeParts.com

Happy Thanksgiving from BikeParts.com

“Grateful people are joyful people.” – David Steindl-Rast

Can the power of gratitude make a difference in our lives?  How can expressing gratitude create happiness and prepare us for a better cycling season?
We all know that whether you ride every day or once in a while, you know it gives you a space and time apart from the pulls and tugs of work, family, and technology. The ride itself provides both a time in which to pay attention to gratitude and many things for which to feel thankful.
But many cyclist that have been riding for years or even competitive athletes finishing a season are sometimes left drained, burned out, and not necessarily enjoying the simple pleasures of a bike.  Yet finding gratitude is of value to your cycling performance – and probably more than you think!
According to the post, Thank You. No, Thank you, “adults who frequently feel grateful have more energy, more optimism, more social connections and more happiness than those who do not.”   As today is Thanksgiving Day, express an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for how your cycling commitment enhances the quality of your life.  
  • Give thanks to family members, coworkers, coaches, fellow riders, and nutritionist for the year long support, feedback and encouragement you receive.
  • Give thanks to your favorite bike shop (hint – us! Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop)  and the mechanics for keeping your bike in working order.
  • Give thanks to the person who does your bike fit and helping you ride more efficiently, comfortably, and hopefully faster.
  • Give thanks to the bike and pedestrian committee members and wide range of other bike community leaders in your area for supporting cycling.
  • Give thanks to bike manufactures for producing bikes, bike parts, cycling accessories, and bicycle components.
Most of all, give thanks to yourself.  Enjoy the day and your ride. It’s your opportunity to enjoy it and be joyful. Grateful people are happy people.

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Dream Season: Fueling the Fire for the 2015 Season

November 20, 2014

dream cycling“We grow great by dreams.  All big men are dreamers.  They see things in the soft haze of a spring day or in the red fire of a long winter’s evening.  Some of us let our dreams die, but others nourish and protect them, nurse them through bad days till they bring them to sunshine and light.” ~  Woodrow Wilson

Gone are the epic rides of summer only to be replaced with cooler temperatures, shorter days, and less time on the bike.  Aside from cyclocross, the 2014 cycling season is over, but, this season may just be the most important season of them all.   Now, it’s dreaming season .  Dreams are where the journey starts for next year. Dreams set you down the path towards achieving something you may not have believed you could accomplish. They are what drive you to fit workouts into hectic schedules and push you when you want to quit.  Dreaming season is when you start fueling the fire for 2015.  Have you dialed in your cycling dreams for next season?

For some, it may seem too soon to think about next year but for others, many are already planning their 2015 race and cycling season. Regardless of which camp you fall into, it’s important to have lofty new goals, new ambitions, and new venues to fuel your cycling passions through the winter months.  However, one misstep in planning is not pausing to reflect on what has recently come to pass.   Personal reflection of the past season offers insights to truly optimize your training and racing regimen going forward.

Fueling the fires for next year begins with evaluating this past year.  Set aside some time for reflection; consider asking yourself 10 Questions to Evaluate the Success of Your Cycling Season.  Or, get insights into your performance by evaluating if your goals were smart (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound).  You may question if you were Mentally Set Up for Success?

Moving past the emotional and psychological evaluation, don’t forget to take stock of your bike and bike parts performance.  Did you have the right bike and tire setup for the conditions, geography, and terrain in which you raced or trained?  Take notice of what worked and what didn’t work. It’s easy to get attached to particular brands or a set up because that is what you have always used; but upon reflection of bike accessories and bike part performance, honest appraisal of performance can steer you to look for cycling accessories that will work better for you in the future.  Sometimes getting a bike fit can help better position you for a season of successful riding.

As an athlete, there is certainly a lot of value in staying in tune with your achievements and goals. However, it’s equally important to take the time to reflect on those achievements so that you can repeat them. If you find yourself unable to reach your goals, don’t get discouraged – take the time to re-assess them.  Equally important, wWen you’re working toward a goal that’s important to you, the last thing you want is to face an obstacle or unexpected challenge.  Set up your 2015 right by planning ahead, plan now to get your road bike or mountain bike in order, along with the gear and resources you need.  By dreaming big and having the best bike parts, your successful training and race prep is well underway for a successful 2015.

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Weather Woes? 3 Ways to Bike Through Through the Arctic Outbreak

November 13, 2014

BikeParts.comAs a cyclist, you can either hate the winter, or make the best of it. As temperatures  plummet to record lows across the country, some bundle up and dress to embrace the winter chill while others opt for the dreaded trainer. Sure riding the trainer can be a necessary compromise, but it doesn’t have to be all bad. Indoor training is a lot more convenient, and potentially more effective, than riding outdoors.  It’s also an optimum means to saying lean and fit to ensure you can have more fun on outdoor rides when the weather improves.  The trick is knowing how to master indoor training.

Learn to love the trainer.  The post, Don’t Be a Hater! Overcoming Trainer Woes, offers key suggestions to improving your trainer experience with equipment being a key factor.  Having the right equipment can make your indoor workouts less boring and more effective. When we’re talking about equipment, sure, we mean having the right bike parts and having your road bike on the trainer, but we’re also talking about having a fan, a trainer tire, a riser block, a sweat towel, a trainer mat, indoor riding clothes, a cadence sensor, a power meter, and a heart rate monitor.  You might not think all of these cycling accessories  add up to a great trainer workout, but according to the post, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Trainer, it can make all the difference in the world.

You might be wondering how so?  Shared in the post, 3 Indoor Cycling Workouts Under 1 Hour, are effective workouts to pair technology with your over/ under intervals, power intervals, and speed intervals.  Without the distractions of outdoor scenery, using these tools aids in motivation by setting time goals or power goals to engage your brain.  Another motivation technique includes using the technology tools as valuable feedback for precise and strategic cycling in specific zones which adds to up to greater gains later in your cycling season.

If all else fails, forego inside riding all together and get a fat bike!   Fat bikes were originally invented for winter trail riding and racing in sub-arctic Alaska and simultaneously, for touring the deserts of New Mexico. But they have gained severe popularity! Their utility has expanded to include all forms of cycling; they thrive in snow, sand, desert, and mud, as well as, riding what is considered normal mountain biking.  In fact, fat bikes are the fastest growing segment in the bike industry.  Fat Bikes Are Big in Colorado – Check here to find out why!

Sure enough, Winter riding is not without hardship. Evenings comes early, forcing riders to pedal home in the dark. Snowdrifts squeeze streets, eliminating a comfortable side lane for bikes. Frozen fingers and feet are common issues for the unprepared.  With that in mind, maybe indoor training isn’t so bad after all?

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Use Support Goals to Make Fitness Gains Through the End of the Year 

November 6, 2014

Halloween has come and gone.  Daylight savings time has ended.  Ugh, the dreaded winter months will soon be upon us.  Keeping up the motivation to exercise on a cold winter day instead of curling up under a warm blanket on the sofa can be difficult, not to mention the allure of the holidays.  All distractions pulling our energy and focus everywhere but the bike.

Yet, there are ways to make the transition through the Fall and Winter seasons work.  Some use cyclocross to maintain or gain fitness; others use technology as a means to boost motivation.  While others, think a little outside the box and choose to focus on support goals.  You might be wondering what the heck is a support goal?  Supportive goals are those activities that are indirectly related to your cycling yet can positively impact your performance.  They are oftentimes activities that are neglected during the season.  The Fall and Winter months are ideal to opt to focus on supportive goals.  Here’s why.

Selecting a goal to focus outside of the scope of your general cycling regimen can be refreshing and help you feel like you are still on your game.  These goals can be less time intensive allowing you to enjoy more family or social time.  Check out these support goals for ideas.  Consider selecting one to focus on for the month of November and add another one to focus on for the month of December.  Before you know it, you’ll be moving into 2015 refreshed and energized with added gains.

Build up your core with core exercises.  For some cyclists, strength training is a welcomed part of the training process; however, for others, it is a necessary evil. Yet, to avoid injury as well as get stronger on the bike, strength training is becoming a critical aspect of year round training.  The best way to train all parts of the body is through working with a full range of motion while strength training.  Dial in the best core exercises for you by reading Year-Round Strength Training for Cyclists.

Improve your flexibility.  Consider doing yoga.  In cycling, the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips never rest. As a result, riders often have overdeveloped quadriceps and tight hamstrings, which can pull the hips out of alignment. Also, a cyclist’s spine is constantly flexed forward. If proper form isn’t maintained, it can result in muscle pain and strain in the back and shoulders. Yoga helps ease the tightness, creating core strength, and aligning the spine.  Even if you aren’t into yoga, there are 3 poses you should practice.

Improve your body image.    As athletes, many have negative self conversations that impact how they feel about themselves and ultimately, affect performance. Learn the Three Steps to Having a Healthy Body Image and move into 2015 feeling better about yourself.  It’s important to be healthy, be fit, and be proud of who you are.

Ultimately, if all else fails, remember, the Holiday season is right around the corner! Nothing inspires cycling more than getting a new bike, purchasing some new cycling accessories or getting some new cycling apparel to wear.  Better yet, why not add some support goals AND get some new bike parts?!

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How to Make the Time Change and Night Riding Work for You

October 30, 2014

When the clocks change and the night draws in, cyclists have a decision to make: get in the groove with night riding and embrace the darkness.  Or, hang up the wheels and miss out on hours of glorious saddle time.

Sometimes it’s a depressing thought with the time change and the nights closing in.  However, night riding can also be relished as one of the most rewarding experiences you can have on a bike, and especially when riding with a group.  Riding in the dark heightens your senses, improves your skills and builds awareness.   Switching up the training regime can freshen your attitude, spark some fun, and maintain fitness.

The trick to capturing the benefits is to make the time change and night riding work for you.  Develop strategies that support your cycling while embracing the darkness.  Here’s how!

A Well Lit Bike
Visibility is critical.  Outfit your bike with a good light system.  You will want lights for the front of your bike.  Consider having multiple lights for the front of your bike.  One on your helmet so you can shine side roads and traffic and have a second light on your handlebars so you can see at least 10 ft. or more in front of you.  For the rear of your bike, opt for a rear red light- particularly one that blinks. A blinking red light is much more likely to get the attention of a passing motorist who might otherwise not notice you.

For those who need a really bright headlight check out the NiteRider Pro 1800 Race on the BikeParts.com website. Designed for mountain bike racing,  and with 1200 lumens you can expect to get about 1 hour and 30 minutes of run time. At 700 lumens you should get 3 hours, 400 lumens yields 4 hours, 200 lumens 12 hours, and 80 lumens 25 hours. It takes about five hours to fully charge the four cell Lithium Ion battery.

A Well Lit Cyclist
Purchase cycling apparel that is visible.  There are options to choose from including vests and ankle bands.  Also, reflective tape is a good idea. 3M makes black reflective tape that is great to put on black wheels. You do not notice it during the day and it shows up white at night.  And, as the temperature drops, it’s hard to know what to wear when it’s 50 degrees and sunny outside versus 30 – 35 degrees and cloudy.  Riding in transitional weather can be a challenge!  But, with clothing that is versatile, lightweight, and easy to pack down, you can find a cycling wardrobe that works for you. Watch our video, How to Dress for Winter Cycling to get ideas.

Ride options:
Riding in the dark makes the riding of any technical section immediately harder than in the day.  It takes a good while to overcome this, so don’t set yourself a task to ride the most demanding trails you have.  Ease yourself in as the nights start earlier and downgrade your expectations.   Remember, you will inevitably ride and travel more slowly than in daylight.  With that being said, be mindful that your route doesn’t exceed your lights battery capacities.

Bike maintenance:
Experiencing mechanical difficulties in the cold and at night is not fun!  A well maintained bike is a fun bike to ride.  Yet, for some, bike maintenance can be a chore.  Having the right set of bike components and tools can make all the difference.  When prepping your bike for for the colder temps and night riding, there are several things you want to do to keep your bike in good working order.  A good thing to always do is to wipe down and inspect the frame.  As the weather changes, rain, snow, ice, and road elements pose different cleaning challenges to your frame and bicycle parts.  Consider using a stiff, soft-bristled brush to knock off any chunks of dried-on mud that may be on your frame or wheels. Then, follow that up by taking a rag to your bike, wiping it down generally all over to get off any remaining dust or dirt.

Also, remember to lube your chain and cables.  As unglamorous as chain lube is, it is a necessity for winter riding.  It will keep your bike parts in working order and squeak free! There are many lubes to choose – wet vs dry lube.  As conditions vary, you may want to have a couple of different choices on hand.  Finally, since you can’t see what you are rolling over in the dark, it’s a good idea to frequently inspect tires, wheels, and brake pads.  Check that there is adequate air pressure in the tires. Check that there aren’t any cuts or nicks in the sidewall or tread of the tires. You’ll want to make sure the brake pads are not worn. And, remember to inspect where the brake pads hit the rim; they should contact the rim evenly on both sides and not rub the tire in any way that may cause a flat.

Here’s where the rubber hits the road: the time change can mark the end of the season or bring on a new adventure.  Embrace the challenge and make night riding work for you!

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