Are Your New Year’s Cycling Resolutions SMART?

December 27, 2012
Happy New Year from BikeParts.com

2013

New Year’s has always been a time for reflecting on the past year, and more importantly, looking forward to the coming year. It’s a time to reflect on the changes we want to make and resolve to follow through on those changes.  However, for all too many resolutions, failure is virtually assured at the offset because the resolutions are not made with serious intent and deliberation.

The first trick is to choose the right resolution, for the right reasons, and making them SMART.  When you make your resolutions SMART  (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound), not only do you boost your chance of  attaining your goals, but you also  become a better cyclist in the process.  Aside from the traditional resolutions to ride more, to loose weight, and to explore new rides, consider taking on some different resolutions.

Set a personal goal for the miles you want to ride in 2013.  Using a cycling computer, heart rate monitor, or power meter offers options in calculating mileage and other fitness related variables.  Try a new tool and see if it makes adding up the miles a little easier.

Learn to maintain your own bike. For some, bike maintenance  can be a chore, but having the right set of bike components and tools can make all the difference.  Consider creating a pre-ride bike check or an ongoing maintenance program to follow.  Bike maintenance can be a great way of engaging in your cycling passion the whole year long.

Bike commute and do it more often. Bike commuting improves fitness, health, saves money, and also benefits the environment by keeping one less car on the road.  If you aren’t a bike commuter now, maybe in 2013 you will be.  And, if you already bike commute, perhaps resolve to commute by bike more frequently.

Inspire others to get out and ride.  Bike inspiration comes in many forms, from DVD‘s, to books, to new bikes and bike parts, to riding with others.  Share your bike passion with others in ways that are meaningful and inspiring to them.  How many friends do you think you could inspire to be two wheeled friends in 2013?

Give Back.  Cycling by nature brings out the best in us all.  Consider volunteering your time, skills, or resources at local bike races and bike events.  Event participants will be in your gratitude but you may get back more than you give!  Many volunteers are inspired to participate, race, or take on bigger goals than they previously imagined due to volunteering and helping others to reach their goals.

Commit to a Positive Attitude.   Nothing is more contagious than a positive attitude!  Resolve in 2013 to embrace power thoughts and bike parts that motivate you to get on your bike and ride. Surround yourself with fellow cyclist aiming for similar goals.  Remember, your attitude determines your altitude.

For cyclist, attaining goals is part motivation, part perspiration, and part having the right tools to help you reach your goals.   Here’s to a bright and rewarding New Year ahead!

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Posted by staffwriter8

Light Your Bike Up Like Rudolph!

December 20, 2012

holiday light bikeHoliday lights, whimsical accents and outdoor Christmas decorations are trademarks of the season.  One of the best way to enjoy all the glittering Holiday splendor is to view a brilliant light display by bike.  See your neighborhood as it sparkles.  Enjoy nighttime views and the ambiance of your town.

But nighttime riding doesn’t have to occur only during the holidays.  There are benefits to training at night for cyclist.  Switching up the training regime can freshen your attitude, spark some fun, and maintain fitness.

The trick to capturing the benefits is to outfit your bike with a good light system.  Whether you are bike commuting, going for a holiday stroll, or getting in base miles, being visible is critical. Here are some tips to getting the right bike parts.

A Well Lit Bike

  • 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.

A Well Lit Cyclist

  • Purchase 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.

So, let there be light!  Enjoy strolling through your neighborhood enjoying the Holiday season or prepare for training in the New Year.  Be safe and have fun by lighting up your bike!

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Winterizing Your Bike: What’s In Your Tool Kit?

November 1, 2012

bicycle maintenance via http://www.cyclingcartoons.com/Lucky for us in Golden, Colorado – the bike commuting and racing season isn’t over yet!  While the off season may be underway, this is the perfect time of year for commuters and athletes to start bike maintenance preparation for the winter months.  Winter riding poses many threats so having a bike in good working order keeps you safe, warmer, and the opportunity for a more enjoyable ride.

For some, bike maintenance can be a chore, but having the right set of bike components and tools can make all the difference.  When prepping your bike for for the winter, there are several things you want to do to keep it in good working order for the winter months.

  • Wipe down and inspect the frame  – 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Granted, there are as many pre-ride bike checks and maintenance programs to follow.  Regardless of which ones you do, keep in mind building your collection of maintenance tool kits and bike components can be a great way of engaging in your cycling passion during the off season.

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What Are the Best Bike Parts for Fall Commuting?

October 17, 2012

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.  ~Albert Camus

Fall bike commuting offers the chance to enjoy cooler temperatures, view the changing colors of the leaves, and reinvigorate our spirits with the freedom riding a bike inspires.  Bike riding isn’t just for recreational fun, it also contributes to good health and positive work/ life balance.  A Rodale Press survey found that Americans want to have the opportunity to bike to work instead of driving, with 40 percent of those surveyed saying they would commute by bike if safe facilities were available.   However, for many, fall bike commuting raises questions.

  • Do I need special bike components?
  • Do I have the right clothing?
  • Do my bicycle parts need extra attention?

Fear not!  Here’s a guide to get you pedaling through the colored leaves.

  • A good route.  Learn how to pick a route you like. Google maps for cycling is a good option.
  • Lights. A set of small, modern LED lights is sufficient.
  • A good helmet.  What do you call a cyclist who doesn’t wear a helmet?  An organ donor ~David Perry.  Wear a bike helmet.
  • A repair kit.  It’s good to carry a small multi-tool, a patch kit, a small pump, and a spare tube for those inevitable roadside repairs.
  • A lock. Invest in a quality lock and use it wisely
  • A way to carry things. This could be as simple as a messenger bag or as elaborate as a set of touring panniers.
  • Be visible. Think Bright colors and reflective materials on your person and on your bike.
  • Motivation. Stay motivated and keep after it! The more you do it, the more you love it!

Why is all this important?  Because having access to resources, tips, and a supportive environment makes it easier to enjoy all the benefits cycling has to offer.

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