How Often Should You Lube Your Bike Chain?

October 1, 2021

If you ask us, you would be doing yourself a favor by lubing your chain every ride. Yes, every ride! Lubing your chain is a low cost but effective way of maintaining your bike. Even better, it takes a couple minutes to do without much mess. In addition to improving the performance of shifting, many lubes are designed to actually clean your drive train. If your bike is continually left dirty, the grit will wear away at components faster. This is why lubing your chain regularly will helps prolong the life of your chain and cassette. Most lube costs around $15 while a new drive train costs, well, a lot more than that!

We recommend doing this at the end of every ride rather than before. This sounds counter intuitive but here is why. Doing this at the end of your ride will allow for any liquid to dry overnight. A dry chain helps keep excess grime and dirt from accumulating on the chain. Inevitably dirt and grim do accumulate which is completely normal, but letting it dry out can only help. When you are done squirting lube on the chain make sure to give it a good wipe to remove any excess residue when you’re done.

Depending on the type of riding you are doing like road biking or mountain biking and where you live, like in Colorado versus the rainy Pacific Northwest, there are specific lubes you should be using. We have another article here that dives into different types of lubes and the climates that are best suited for them. Now if it’s been a while, go lube that chain and give your bike the love it deserves! And by all means don’t use WD-40!


When Insuring Your Bike Makes Sense and How to Maintain It

August 27, 2020

Bike sales have surged by as much as 300% across the country as suppliers struggle to keep up with newfound demand. With more Americans than ever before looking to keep fit and travel by bicycle, the situation presents a number of incredible opportunities and a couple of risks. Many of the millions of new cyclists across America may be unfamiliar with proper maintenance of their bike and bike parts,making it more important than ever that awareness is raised for the sake of safety. 

When to insure your bike
The value proposition of bicycle insurance relies heavily on your circumstances. Bike insurance typically covers a wide range of eventualities, including theft, crash or accidental damage, and even damage in transit. For competing athletes, those who routinely put their bike through its paces or travel regularly insurance may make a lot of sense. In these cases, you are at a much higher risk of damaging your bicycle, bike parts, and cycling accessories and have likely invested a lot of money in it. 

Perhaps the most common use case for a bicycle is the daily commute. Cities are notorious for bike theft and their busy roads are often dangerous to cyclists. This is probably the riskiest environment for any bicycle and insurance might mitigate what would otherwise be a difficult situation should the unfortunate occur. Homeowners may find that their bicycle is already covered by their home insurance plan. Many plans allow you to cover additional items so if your bike isn’t explicitly covered already, you may be able to add it to your plan. 

Maintaining your bicycle
Understanding bicycle maintenance is crucial to the long-term viability of your cycling career. While millions of Americans are buying bikes, without proper maintenance those bikes will quickly fall into disrepair and turn to scrap. The most important place to start is likely the drivetrain. Keeping your drivetrain clean and lubricated will ensure the smooth, quiet running of your bike. It’s expensive to replace, but takes very little effort to maintain meaning there’s no excuse for letting it rust.

Tire pressure is something you should check every couple of days and top up when necessary. Punctures and flats are inevitable so make an effort to learn how to replace or repair tires. This way you won’t be stumped when it finally happens. Finally and perhaps most importantly for safety, check your brakes before each journey and adjust them as necessary. Keeping the pads clean will reduce wear and tear while ensuring they perform optimally.

Bicycling is undergoing a renaissance in the US as millions seek a new form of exercise. While it’s an exciting time for the community, we must ensure new cyclists understand the importance of maintaining and protecting their investment. The industry’s growth won’t last if new cyclists let them rust and lose motivation when the repair bill grows too high.


Tricks for Staying Safe on a Long Cycling Tour 

August 13, 2020

Cycling has soared in popularity this year, with sales of bikes up 75%. For many, this new hobby has inspired them to take longer road trips and tours. The key to a successful long cycling tour is preparation, you need to make sure that both you and your bike are in good condition.

If you are cycling in unfamiliar territory, plan your route carefully, making sure you take note of advice from other cyclists about the best routes to take, or where it is safe to stopover or camp. You should also look into the local traffic laws and make sure that you wear a helmet. A cycling tour is a great way to see the world at a pace that suits you, but safety is paramount when you are on the road.

Keeping fit and healthy

If you are on a tour, you may be tempted to cover long distances without a break but it is important that you stop regularly. Drinking plenty of water is essential, but if you are in another country, it is worth checking first that it is safe to drink the water, as not all countries have a clean water recycling system. Drinking contaminated water is the most common cause of diarrhea, and this is the last thing you need on a cycling tour. Eat regularly, making sure that you get a well-balanced diet.
High carbohydrate snacks may be convenient, but they will leave you feeling sluggish and tired. Cycling supplement drinks are a good idea on a long trip as they contain a burst of electrolytes to keep you alert when you’re on the road. Many also contain minerals to help support your muscles like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. If you are traveling in another country, make sure that you arrange sufficient insurance and get any vaccinations that are necessary. You should also make sure that your travel insurance covers any accidental damage to your bike.

General road safety

When you are out on the road, wear bright, reflective colors, especially if you are cycling at night. If you are riding through a town or city, beware of parked cars as drivers do not always check when they open doors. Good road positioning is essential in built-up areas, don’t ride too close to the curb, because if someone needs to overtake, you will have space to your left to move into. It will also make it easier to avoid gutters, drains, and potholes by the side of the road. Many cyclists recommend riding in the middle of a lane so that motorists aren’t tempted to squeeze past you when it is unsafe to do so. Always ride single-file if you are with a group and make sure that you use hand signals when you are turning. Don’t be tempted to wear headphones and never use your cell phone when you are riding.

Looking after your bike

Regular bike maintenance is essential if you are on a long tour. Every day check over your bike and make sure that your tires have enough pressure. The wheels should go round easily with no wobbles and the mudguards shouldn’t rub against anything.  If you are fairly new to cycling, it would be a good idea to do a bike maintenance course before you go, learning to deal with basic issues, like repairing a puncture and oiling chains and cogs. You should also check that all the bolts on your bike are tight, in particular the rear rack bolts that can often work their way loose over time.

When you are going on a long road tour, staying safe on the road is imperative. Look after your body, your bike, bike parts, and your cycling accessories and you can enjoy seeing the world with confidence and ease.


How to Properly Clean and Detail Your Bike in Less Than an Hour

July 23, 2020

Owning a bike puts you in a pretty enviable position right now; it’s a safe way to get around as it involves minimal contact, can be incredibly fun, and with many gyms still closed, riding is a great way to maintain your fitness. But, one key responsibility that comes with owning a bike is keeping it clean. With so many moving bike parts, prolonged exposure to mud, grime, and debris can affect the ride quality and promote faster deterioration of such parts. Cleaning your road bike or mountain bike properly takes just a few minutes, but doing so regularly will save you from expensive repairs and replacements later down the line and prolong the life of the bike.

Start with the frame 

Start by hosing gently hosing down the frame to get rid of any loose dirt. Avoid using a pressure washer for this as it could force water into the bearings, which could damage your bike. Next, spray your bike with a bike cleaning product and check the label to see how much time you should leave it on. If you don’t have a dedicated bike cleaning product, do a test patch before using any other product. Some cleaners have chemicals that can color fade your frame or, even worse, damage the protective layer on the anodized aluminum used to make bike parts. After letting your cleaner sit for a few minutes, use a bucket of warm soapy water and a soft brush to scrub off all dirt and grime, working from the top down. Finish by rinsing all the parts in the order you cleaned them with a bucket of clean water.

Focus on the drivetrain

You must give your drivetrain — front chainrings, rear derailleur, rear cassette, and chain — special attention to prolong its life. Start by spraying it all down with an eco-friendly degreaser and let it sit for the recommended amount of time. Using a gear brush, give it a good scrub while making sure that you get into the cassette cogs. If your drivetrain had too much grime or still looks dirty after a scrub, you might want to use a chain cleaning device, which will be more thorough and less messy. Once the drivetrain is clean, give the entire bike one last rinse and use clean rags to dry it.

Finishing touches 

Once everything is dry, it’s time to do some finishing touches for both aesthetic and durability reasons. Start by giving your frame a proper spray wax to get that optimal level of shine you’re looking for. When done, you should be able to see your own reflection or the sun glimmering off the frame. Next, apply some drops of lubricant to every moving part starting with the chain then the brakes and pivot points on the dérailleurs. Lubrication is vital to maintain good performance and to protect your bike from excessive wear caused by friction and rust. Remember to wipe off the excess lubricant as it could attract dirt.

Keeping your bike clean is crucial not only for good performance but also to prevent excessive deterioration of key parts. A regular cleaning schedule is important — it could be monthly, weekly, or even daily if you love riding in muddy areas. Check out our great selection of bike maintenance tools including degreasers, cleaners, and brushes, as well as, lube, and polish and protectants.


How to Get Your Cycling Fix Amidst the Covid-19 Outbreak

March 26, 2020

The outbreak of coronavirus, or Covid-19, has already had a significant impact on the pro cycling calendar, with races canceled indefinitely. Many local races in Colorado have delayed registration and cyclist in other parts of the world are finding themselves restricted to indoor riding only. With much uncertainty at present, it’s difficult to maintain a normal daily routine, much less a training regimen.  As Covid-19 continues to cause concern and uncertainty around the world, what do cyclists need to know?

First and foremost, remain healthy! Continue to wash your hands regularly, practice social distancing, avoid touching your face, stay at home, and avoid interacting with anyone who has had—or even may have had—contact with others who may be contaminated.  Now, what about riding your bike? Can you ride it outside?  According to the post, Everything you need to know about riding your bike during the COVID outbreak by Bicycle Colorado, riding your bike is a great way to stay healthy—physically and mentally—while living in a socially-distanced world. 

“In a USA Cycling conference call with bicyclists and bicycling event organizers on March 17, 2020, Dr. Michael Roshon noted that riding bikes also carries little risk of contamination or infection. For bicyclists, Roshon notes that you are very unlikely to contract COVID-19 while riding outside, and especially not while riding by yourself.”  

The following are recommendations made for people who race on their bikes and event organizers, yet also apply to everyone who rides a bike. 

  • First and foremost: if you think you’ve been exposed, self-quarantine. Including being outdoors. Do not ride outside.
  • Maintain six feet of distance when riding with or around others.
  • If you are going to ride with others, do so in a small group of 3-4 people you know very well. If in doubt, ask them about how they’ve been feeling and their recent travel experiences. Conversations we’ve had with CDPHE confirm this thinking.
  • Practice good hand hygiene at all times.
  • Get your sleep! Your immune system is stronger when you practice healthy sleep habits. Roshon recommends 8-9 hours.
  • Eat healthily. Now is not the time to fast; fasting hinders your immune system.
  • Exercise!
  • But keep in mind that it’s important not to overdo it. When you push yourself too hard, you can limit your immune system’s response to a virus.  
  • Do not spit or snot-rocket in group rides or around other people walking or biking.
  • If you have to do so, move to the back of the group and make sure no one else is around you. Check out this article from Bicycling Magazine which dives deeper into the topic.
  • If you’re in a shelter-in-place area, it’s important to heed those rules and stay home. Don’t put yourself or your loved ones at risk because you want to go for a ride. For a list of communities with shelter-in-place orders, scroll down to the “What We’re Hearing” section.
  • Finally, don’t ride risky. This is an especially bad time to be in a bike crash. You don’t want to go to the hospital right now, and doctors don’t want to see you unless they need to, so taking reasonable precautions while riding is especially important right now.

What if you don’t want to ride outside at all? You have a few options available to get your cycling fix.

Your first option is to ride indoors. We’ve written quite a few posts on indoor training which you may find helpful. This includes Indoor Cycling Made Easy and Making the Most of Winter with Trainers, Rollers, and Indoor Riding. Both posts offer trainer suggestions and the bike parts needed to keep you comfortable and motivated to ride at length, indoors. 

Next, focus on bike maintenance.  Check out our post, Spring Cleaning! 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road, so when you are ready to ride, your bike will be too. 

Get your cycling apparel and gear in order. With the extra time on your hands, take an inventory of the jerseys, shorts, gloves, and other cycling accessories that are worn out and need replacing. You can easily take advantage of our huge Specialized sale going on right now to stock up and save money at the same time. 

No doubt, these are challenging times.  Yet, all of us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop are still here for you. We’re open if you need to come into the shop and we welcome your support of small, local business.  Please keep in mind our current policies for Covid-19. which includes no groups larger than 3 and no casual “browsing” in the shop.  We have temporarily discontinued bike rentals and demos. Remember, we have a huge Spring Sale going on that will bolster your spirits!  Save up to 40% on select Specialized bikes and gear through April 19th.  

Where there’s a will – there’s a way! We’re all in this together and we will get through it together.  Be well and be safe friends! 


Do It Yourself Spring Bike Inspections

March 19, 2020

Does your bike have cobwebs on it from non-use during the winter months?  Or maybe you’ve been riding and it’s time to wash off the snow, salt, grime, and mud.  Either way, spring is nearly here. The warmer temperatures and the longer daylight hours invite you to get your bike in tip-top shape and hit the roads. Follow our simple steps to get your bike and bike parts in working order so you can enjoy those early season rides.  

Frame inspection
No doubt, bike maintenance can feel like a chore, but it is a necessity.  As you ride more through the early spring season, some things that weren’t visible upon your first bike inspection may become apparent as the season progresses.  Regular maintenance is essential.  There are several things you want to do to keep it in good working order for the early season cycling months.  For starters, wipe down and inspect the frame.  Rain, snow, mud, and road elements pose different cleaning challenges to your frame and bicycle parts, so clean them well.  Look for any dents, rust, corrosion or any possible areas of damage and make notes as to the severity of the issue. If in doubt, bring your bike into Peak Cycles and our mechanics can help assess your situation and offer recommendations for remedies.

Chain inspection
When you are cleaning your bike, you are going to eventually get to your chain and cassette. You will want to pay extra attention to these as they are essential for making your bike go. For an easy-clean, scrub your chain and cassette with a brush and eco-friendly degreaser and re-lubricate the chain when you are done. For something more thorough, you could buy a chain cleaner like Park Tool’s Cyclone Chain Scrubber, fill it with a non-aerosol degreaser like Pedros Oranj Peelzturn your crank 15-20 revolutions and let your scrubber do the job for you.

Bike parts inspection
Look at the side of the seat, handlebars, pedals, and derailleurs. If you see scratches or gouges in these places, make note of any bike parts that need to be replaced.  Keep in mind that while your saddle may look and feel fine, looks can be deceiving.  Materials and composition deteriorate beyond what is visible.  Also, neck, shoulder, and bike pain can result in an improper fitting bike.  Handlebars stems and bike position all contribute to a rider’s stability, endurance, and safety. So if any of these cycling components aren’t in proper working order, it’s imperative to replace or upgrade your bike parts. Also, remember to inspect your brake pads. You’ll want to make sure the brake pads are not worn. 

Wheel Inspection
After the frameset, the wheels are the most expensive part of most road bikes. To check them, start by feeling for bearing play. Don’t worry, you don’t need to know about bearings to do this check. All you do is hold the wheel at 12 o’clock and push and pull sideways. thIf the wheels pass the bearing check, the next thing to do is to inspect them to make sure they’re straight (not wobbly). The obvious inspection includes tires, rims, and spokes. 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.

Finally, if you find yourself questioning the integrity of your bike frame or bike parts, don’t take the risk of injury or mishap. Bring your bike into Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop for a free service estimate. When you bring in your bike for service, we give you a free estimate of the work that’s needed. One of our service technicians will discuss in detail what we recommend for your repair according to your needs and budget. Whether you do your spring bike inspections yourself or you bring your bike to the shop, now is the time to give your bike some TLC for a great cycling season ahead! 


Holiday Gifts for Every Cyclist On Your List 

December 19, 2019

As the holiday season is in full swing, you may find yourself reflecting on what to buy your favorite cyclist for the gift-giving season.

Fortunately, whether your favorite cyclist is interested in racing, commuting, or recreational bike riding, at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we’ve got your gift ideas covered.

From stocking stuffers to big presents to place under the tree, read through this list and find exactly what you need! 

  1. Tubes: This is one gift you can have confidence will get used. Make sure you get the right size of tube. If you aren’t sure, stop in the Peaks Cycles Bicycle Shop and ask one of our friendly staff to help you. Or, visit us online at bikeparts.com
  2. Tires: While you’re getting tubes, you might as well get some new rubber! All Continental tires are 10-20% off.
  3. 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, as in Gu or nutrition products. 
  4. Socks: Did you know cyclists 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!
  5. 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.  The nice thing about these is that they fit nicely in a holiday stocking in as much as they do a cycling jersey!
  6. Gloves: Say bye-bye to smelly gloves. This is another item that every cyclist already has, but which every cyclist can always use more of. 
  7. Is your favorite cyclist a bike commuter? We’ve got 15% off Kryptonite lights and 10% off Kryptonite locks. The ideal bike safety combination for bike commuting.
  8. Bike nutrition: Think energy bars / gels / chews.  Instead of chocolate, fill the stocking (or water bottle) with nutritional items, bars, gels, and drinks.
  9. Lube: Every cyclist goes through chain lube and we’ve got tons of it. 
  10. A gift for off the bike.  Maybe your favorite cyclist would enjoy a pint glass, a poster, or some other bike parts goodie.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.   Book a fat bike demo for your favorite cyclist.
  13. What if your favorite cyclist is a kid? We all know, the best Christmas Gift for a Kid is a bike! Lucky for you, we have a huge selection of kids bikes, children’s cycling apparel, helmets, and cycling accessories. This includes windbreakers, gloves, shorts, jersey’s, chamois, pedals, hats, backpacks, and all the cool things that kids love. Stop in the shop to see our huge selection of children’s cycling apparel and gear.
  14. For the cyclist that loves to do their own bike maintenance, surprise them with the Starter Kit from Park Tools and pair it with the Feedback Sports Work Mechanic Workstand. You’ll have a happy cyclist for sure!
  15. 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.

Bonus gifts. These are for you! If you’re looking to save a little money and you want to win big with your favorite cyclist, then you’ll love these sales. 

  1. Super Specialized Sale on bikes, tires, helmets, saddles, shoes, socks, bike frames. In fact, we’ve got over 500 Specialized Bicycles on sale right now, including E-Bikes! Check it out!
  2. Save up to 50% off last year’s cycling shoes
  3. 20% Off ALL WTB Products!
  4. Closeout sale. Get 5-70% off before it’s gone!
  5. And, we offer free shipping on orders over $75.00. Yay!

Here at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we feel that 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 experimentation with new or different bike parts, the joy of connecting with friends in meaningful ways, and the building of camaraderie with teammates.  These are all the very blessings we wish for you and your family this holiday season.  Merry Christmas from Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and BikeParts.com!


Is Your Bike Haunted? How to Rid Your Bike of Scary Squeaks and Creaks this Halloween 

October 31, 2019

Do you hear squeaks and creaks, clanks and clatters, or rattles and clicks coming from your bike? Are you in fear that your bike is haunted? That perhaps a competitor has put a curse on you? Or quite possibly your bike is possessed?  It is Halloween after all! And frightful things can happen! Take it from our bike mechanics here at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, a frightful terror we have seen is the use of WD-40 as chain lubrication!  The horror!

Given our bike maintenance experience, we can help you expel the frightful sounds originating from your bike. Granted, our tips and tricks won’t cover a full exorcism but you’ll be well on your way to fixing those annoying noises and back to peaceful pedaling.

Squeaks and CreeksThese super common sounds are usually due to dirty or dry bearings. You’ll often find that after riding your bike for a while or in harsh conditions these noises start to creep in. Areas to check if you’re hearing these noises would be:
Crankset/ Bottom Bracket
Headset
Pivots (MTB)
Derailleur jockey wheels or chain guide pulleys
Chain
Derailleur “clutch” or lockout area
Saddle rail clamp bolt
Clipless pedals

Clunks and ClattersAnother common noise that sounds a bit scarier is a clunk or clatter. This noise should scare you because it generally means something on your bike is loose! Here are some important bolts to check if you hear this noise:
Headset
Front/Rear wheel axles
Pivots (MTB)
Derailleur bolt
Water bottle cage (ok, this one’s not that scary… but super common!)

Rattles and Clicks – While there are countless recommendations on keeping your road bike or mountain bike in good, working order, try these tips to help with rattles, clicks, and the like.
Pay Attention to Your Chain. If you’ve been training regularly then no doubt your chain is showing some wear and tear. Take time to actually clean your chain. For an easy-clean, scrub your drivetrain parts with a brush and eco-friendly degreaser and re-lubricate the chain when you are done. For something more thorough, you could buy a chain cleaner like Park Tool’s Cyclone Chain Scrubber, fill it with a non-aerosol degreaser like Pedros Oranj Peelzturn your crank 15-20 revolutions and let your scrubber do the job for you. As for the best chain lube, check out our post, Dry Pavement, Sloppy Slush, and A Muddy Trail: Which Chain Lube Works Best? for options.

Check your Wheels and Tires. Both your wheels and tires are essential for bike safety.  Accompanying the snow and wet riding conditions are salt, debris, and miscellaneous items found in the cycling lanes and roads. Have you checked your tires lately? They may actually need replacing. Begin by cleaning the wheels with rubbing alcohol and dry with a cloth. Check the rims for damage and examine for loose spokes. Your wheel should run smoothly without any side-to-side wobble. Next, replace your tires. If you aren’t up for doing this yourself, let us help you.

Inspect Your Brakes. Nothing is more frightening than shredding down a long, winding road and not having brakes! Bike brakes use brake pads to stop your wheels from turning. Brake pads wear down over time and especially so under wet and grimy conditions. Be mindful to examine your brake pads for any uneven or extensive wear. If you do find uneven abrasions, you probably need to get your brakes adjusted and/or replaced.

Replace old bike parts! Don’t wait until you hear odd little noises or you notice that your bike is taking too long for the brakes to engage before investigating.  Some parts of a bike have a set “wear life”. As you put in the miles, they gradually wear out and need to be replaced. Typically, this includes chainscassetteschainringsbrake pads, and cleats.

Finally, if you can’t find the cause of the annoying noises, bring your bike into Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado. We’ll be able to zero in on the source and type of noise fast and efficiently and get you back to riding in peace and quiet in no time. See you soon and Happy Halloween Friends!


Get Ready For The Golden Giddyup

September 12, 2019

Only 2 days until the Golden Giddyup! Wait, what? Haven’t you heard of the Golden Giddyup?  Well, it’s a mountain bike community-sponsored bike event and trail stewardship program held in Golden, Colorado and it’s THIS weekend! All of us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop are excited about the event. You’re invited to learn all about the GoldenGiddyup and encouraged to take part!

The History: The Golden Giddyup is a 501c3 nonprofit originally created to support Jefferson County Open Space with competent volunteer trail builders who help maintain some of the most loved and heavily used Open Space Parks. Each year in September, the partners at Jeffco Open Space close Apex, Windy Saddle and North Table Mountain Parks to host the annual Golden Giddyup race and there is a party, the Giddyup Get-Down, in downtown Golden. All of the proceeds from the event go back to supporting the Giddyup Trail Team and the stewardship efforts on the trail and off.

What is it? The Golden Giddyup is an all-day mountain bike event.  Part of the day is racing and all of the day is pure fun! As for the racing part, the Golden Giddyup features an enduro-style format, with three timed descents and three timed climbs.  As for course and race descriptions, there’s the Classic, the Chimpex, and the Lite. Each course option offers stiff climbs and bomb worthy descents.  As for the fun part, well, that’s an all-day thing.  The Giddyup Expo is from 10 AM – 5 PM in Lions Park. There is a free concert from noon until 5 PM. And the best part? Family fun and bike activities throughout the day!  There is a skills course for strider riders on up, a climbing wall, face painting and a variety of family fun activities.

Get involved!  If you’re a Golden Giddyup first-timer, then show up and enjoy the festivities! If you’re registered to race, then plan ahead and purchase any bike parts or cycling accessories to be prepared. Get your bike maintenance tools and prep your mountain bike for a great day in the saddle. 

The Golden Giddyup is a wonderful event and more so, an opportunity to really thank all those that make our mountain bike trails great. We’ll see you at the Golden Giddyup! 


Your Summer Riding Check List 

May 30, 2019

@johnweilerr

BikeParts.com Rider @johnweilerr

While our weather in Colorado has been on the cooler side, warmer days are just around the corner. As spring turns to summer, long trail rides on your mountain bike and epic road ride on your road bike lie just ahead. But it can be a thrill kill to plan the most epic of rides only to arrive at the trailhead or meet the group and be without a required bike part or cycling item. Do you have all of the cycling accessories and gear you need to make the most of the summer riding season? Make the most of late spring and early summer riding with our checklist of cycling apparel and bike part must haves! 

If your riding or training has been intermittent through the winter months and early spring, then chances are your bike maintenance may have been intermittent too. Before logging big miles, you should conduct bike maintenance and safety check. This includes a good cleaning of your bike, careful attention of your chain and drivetrain components, and inspection of your brake pads, wheels and tires. For some extra pointers on getting your bike ride ready, check out our post  Spring Cleaning! 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road

If it’s been a while since you’ve logged extended miles, you may have forgotten what you usually bring along with you. Following are a few to have in your jersey pocket or saddle bag.

  • Basic repair and maintenance kit The basic supplies you should have in your kit include a spare inner tube, tire leverspatch kit, mini-pump, and a folding multi-tool. In case of a chain break, bring a chain master link. A small paper clip or zip tie can help keep the chain together to limp the bike home. While not considered essential items, some cyclist take their basic kit a bit further and include other items like a small amount of duck tape, zip ties or rubber bands.
  • Water and/or sports drink and a light snack
  • Cash, ATM card, Personal Identification
  • The right cycling apparelWhether you want to ride in the new spring cycling styles or spin in your usual cycling gear, the main point to remember is to have clothing options available to you while riding. The weather turns quick and a rain shower or quick drop in temperature can make the best of rides turn sour quickly. Consider having a standby bike ready bag available. Pack it with arm and leg warmers, a headband or caprain jacket, and lube.
  • Map or a GPS
  • Sunscreen

Additionally, if you are competing in any of the upcoming races like The Growler, Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, Dirty Kanza, or other events, you might want to check out our Comprehensive Checklist for Spring Racing

There you have it. The quick, yet a thorough list of items to have on hand.  Keep in mind, as you ride more through the season, some worn bike parts that weren’t visible upon your first bike inspections may become apparent as the season progresses.  Be sure to stop by the Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to pick up the cycling accessories you need! Hope to see you soon! 


TONIGHT! 2019 Bike Safety Talk with The Cyclist Lawyer

May 23, 2019

The joys of riding a bike are numerous. Bicycling is one of the best ways to get exercise, see the sights, reduce stress, and even get from place to place as a commuter.  Yet, there are some inherent risks to riding a bike.  Most think those risks are about bike maintenance. As in, ensuring your brakes work or wearing a helmet in case of a crash or mishap. Yet, more importantly, it’s important to know the rules of the road so that you feel comfortable and safe while riding a bike in traffic.   

Do you feel you know enough to teach your children how to ride cautiously and conspicuously while on their own? When you drive a car, are you confident on how to share the road with people on bikes?

Bicycle accidents aren’t as uncommon as most people think. They are avoidable when you are educated on bike safety and the rules of the road – whether that is as cyclist or driver.  Join us, Peak Cycles/Bikeparts.com, and  Megan Hottman, the Cyclist-Lawyer, for our bike safety class tonight.  

When: May 23, 2019 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Where: Peak Cycles – Bikeparts.com 1224 Washington Ave, Ste 145, Golden, Colorado 80401

Bonus: Participants of the class enjoy: 

  • 15% off non-closeout cycling accessories
  • 10% off bikes
  • Light refreshments
  • Bike Safety Talk

Our Bike Safety Talk will not only give you the confidence to ride, but you’ll have the opportunity to meet and connect you with other cyclist and advocates in the area.  RSVP on our Facebook Page and we’ll see you tonight!


Don’t Miss It! Cash In on Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop’s Specialized Spring into Spring Sale! Now Through March 31st! 

March 21, 2019

Specialized Spring into Spring Sale at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop

Well, Hello Spring! 

How about these warmer temperatures, sunny and longer days?! It’s about time, right? Finally, we have some good weather to enjoy long rides and get some much-needed saddle time to prep for the season ahead.  

And you know what else is so great about spring? Sales! Springs Sales! At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we have a few great sales going on right now. But here’s the catch – you gotta get into the shop by March 31st to get them! 

  • Save up to 40% on select products! You have to see it to believe it. Stop by the shop, take a look around and you’ll be amazed at the variety of bike parts, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, and other selected items we have on sale. 
  • Need a new pair of cycling shoes? Now is the time to get them. We have last year’s shoe models up to 50% off. Most sizes are still available so come in soon to get your size. 
  • Looking for some new threads?  Slapping on a new pair of tires is one of the best upgrades you can make. Come shop for road or mountain bikes tires from a variety of brands. 20% off tires with the purchase of an install. Good through March 31, 2019 

While you’re in the shop, you might want to pick up any bicycle tools you need for bike maintenance and bike tune-up. Stock up on nutrition items, water bottles, and anything other bike parts you may need.  

Don’t miss the Specialized Speed into Spring event! Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and check out the sales of up to 40% off our fastest and most popular road, trail and e-bikes. See you before March 31st, 2019. 


Sloppy Weather – Easy Tips to Show Your Bike Some TLC  

March 7, 2019

Peak Cycles / BikeParts.com Training Ride up Lookout Mountain in Golden, Colorado

It’s that time of the year when road rides alternate between dry pavement and sloppy slush.  And, with the warmer temperatures gracing the Front Range, riding MTB trails is a treat but there is the complication of dealing with mud, slush and a mixture of dry trail. What does this mean to cyclists? it means your bike needs some TLC. Bike maintenance isn’t always fun to do, but obviously, it is a necessity. 

While there are countless recommendations on keeping your road bike or mountain bike in good, working order, these are our top 3 picks for bike maintenance during this transitional season. 

  1. Pay Attention to Your Chain. If you’ve been training regularly then no doubt your chain is showing some wear and tear. Take time to actually clean your chain. For an easy clean, scrub your drivetrain parts with a brush and eco-friendly degreaser and re-lubricate the chain when you are done. For something more thorough, you could buy a chain cleaner like Park Tool’s Cyclone Chain Scrubber, fill it with a non-aerosol degreaser like Pedros Oranj Peelzturn your crank 15-20 revolutions and let your scrubber do the job for you. As for the best chain lube, check out our post, Dry Pavement, Sloppy Slush, and A Muddy Trail: Which Chain Lube Works Best? for options.
  2. Check your Wheels and Tires. Both your wheels and tires are essential for bike safety.  Accompanying the snow and wet riding conditions are salt, debris, and miscellaneous items found in the cycling lanes and roads. Have you checked your tires lately? They may actually need replacing. Begin by cleaning the wheels with rubbing alcohol and dry with a cloth. Check the rims for damage and examine for loose spokes. Your wheel should run smoothly without any side-to-side wobble. Next, replace your tires. If you aren’t up for doing this yourself, let us help you. For the month of March, receive 20% off any tire with the purchase of installation in the shop! 
  3. Inspect Your Brakes. When you are shredding down a long, winding road or a steep trail grade, what’s going to stop you? Your brakes! Bike brakes use brake pads to stop your wheels from turning. Brake pads wear down over time and especially so under wet and grimy conditions. Be mindful to examine your brake pads for any uneven or extensive wear. If you do find uneven abrasions, you probably need to get your brakes adjusted and/or replaced.

As you ride more through the early season, some worn bike parts that weren’t visible upon your first bike inspection may become apparent as the season progresses.  Regular maintenance is essential. Preseason bike maintenance and training paves the way for a long, healthy, and enjoyable cycling season.  Stop by the Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to pick up the cycling accessories you need to maintain your bike or let us help you!


Obvious Yet Worth Repeating: Why Bike Lights Are Important 

October 25, 2018

Bike Lights at BikeParts.com

 

 

 

 

If you have been cycling for a while, chances are at some point in your cycling career you have had an unpleasant experience with a car.  No one enjoys that!  And, while it is a given that vehicle and motorcycle drivers understand that there are certain rules that make things safer for everyone on the roads, they may not know that there are specific guidelines for dealing with cyclists. Likewise, riders must obey certain traffic laws to keep things safe for themselves and motorists. However, you don’t need a license to ride a bike. That’s why it’s even more important to educate both drivers and cyclists about safety on the road.  

This time of year, some cyclist forgo their rides in fear of lack of visibility and poor road conditions to avoid the potential conflicts of not being seen by drivers.  Yet, at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we encourage you to keep riding.  Safety equates to being seen by drivers, as well as, pedestrians. So to continue riding through the fall and winter months, forgo your fear of the dark! Invest in the right bike parts and cycling apparel to ride in the dark. As a result, you will have the confidence to do it. Remember, visibility is crucial – for you and your bike. 

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. 

Commit to regular bike maintenance.  Fall weather conditions create a bit more havoc for your bike. With that in mind, we encourage riders to be mindful of having a well maintained bike with properly working bike parts to maintain safe riding conditions.  We also support mindful bike riding.  As in, not riding on the sidewalk, not riding to close to the curb, maintaining eye contact with pedestrians and motorist, and always wearing a proper fitting helmet.   

Being seen and staying safe on the bike is easy.  At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we provide cycling accessories and cycling apparel to keep cyclist safe.  While having a bike belllights, a safety vest, and a helmet are all helpful, we also encourage riders to know the rules of the road. The post, An Essential Cyclist Safety Guide for Riders and Motorists, shares more details on bike safety.  Additionally, the post How to Not Get Hit by Cars shares important lessons in bike safety.  Be an informed and safe rider – know the rules of the road, ride safe, and be seen. 

Lucky for you, we have lights on sale right now! LED, rechargeable, and affordable. Check out BikeParts.com for our wide variety of light options.  Or, stop by the shop and see which ones are best for your bike setup and type of riding.  See you soon! 


5 Uncommon Bike Buying Questions

October 4, 2018
So you want to buy a bike?  Who wouldn’t want to get a new bike?! Actually, now is the best time of year to purchase a new road bike or mountain bike because this year’s bikes are on sale and we’re clearing the way for next year’s models.  With so many bike choices available, there are quite a few questions to dial in when considering purchasing a new bike.  In fact, we’ve written about many of those questions in the following blog posts and you can check them out here:  
But, what about the uncommon questions?  You know, the ones you might be a bit shy to ask the salesperson.  No need to hesitate with your questions, we’ve got you covered.  
 
Question #1 Let’s get the first question out of the way.  Do you need to buy your bike at a bike shop?  You can buy anything on the internet these days including bike parts, cycling accessories, and complete bicycles from us at BikeParts.com.  However, we do encourage you to purchase your bicycle at a bike shop.  Here’s why. Bicycle Magazine sums it up best, “When you buy a bike from an authorized retailer, you know that the bike was assembled by a professional mechanic, and you begin to build a rapport with that shop—a great way to find out about new routes or group rides or maintenance clinics and events. You also ensure you’re not getting a counterfeit product, which is a continuing problem in the bike industry.” 
Question # 2 How do you know if a bike fits you? Test ride it!  Bring your cycling apparel with you, including your cycling shoes and helmet, when test riding a bike.  Before heading out on your test ride, take time to visit with your salesperson about shifting, brakes, and any particular feature of the bike you are testing out.  A bike that feels good and is comfortable to ride is one you will ride often.  So, go with feel. And then, after your purchase, schedule a bike fit with us to dial in the specific bike parts you may need to achieve optimum comfort, power, cadence, and fit for you.  
Question #3. Do I have to dress like a cyclist like the riders you see on the Tour de France?  Well, you can if you want to!  At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we have a wide variety of cycling apparel to match your style.  Some prefer jerseys and lycra shorts and other prefer a more casual ride style.  Again, go with what is comfortable to you. We have cycling apparel on sale and new items coming in for the winter months. Stop by and see what works best for you. 
Question #4 Should I use clipless or flat pedals? Note, clipless pedals are the ones you clip into with cycling shoes with cleats on the bottom.  Flat pedals are simply pedals, like you would have on a BMX or kids bike. They are not popular with many racers or road riders because clipless pedals help improve your performance in racing, especially for road disciplines. But don’t rush to use clipless or exclude flat pedals from your practice completely. Start with what you are most comfortable and make changes as you see fit. 
Question #5 How do I maintain my bike?  Bike maintenance may seem overwhelming to the new rider and even to veteran riders too.  Some cyclist really enjoy doing their own bike maintenance and others prefer for our shop mechanics to do it for them.  Again, do what is best in your comfort zone.  As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to follow some of these guidelines that we’ve written about in our post, 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road.
 
What other questions might you have that we missed? Don’t be shy! Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to test ride a bike, check out our winter cycling apparel, and get all of your questions answered.  

Cycling Health: How to Remain Injury Free 

July 5, 2018

Staying healthy is important to our overall well being and happiness. Everyone knows this, but cycling health is a matter of staying healthy and injury free so that continuous fitness gains can be made and basically, you can just do more of what you love! Ride that is!   Fortunately, with some simple, routine actions, it’s easy to remain healthy and injury free. 

Bike fit: In a sport based on such a highly repetitive action, like pedaling, the first line of defense against injury is a proper bike fit. Whether you’re just starting to ride or you’ve been cycling for a long time, consider the benefits of a professional bike fit.  Fit impacts comfort but also technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries.  If you aren’t sure what to look for, you may want to notice any bike parts that need to be replaced. Saddle injuries are the result of poor seat position, height, angle or design.  While your saddle may look and feel fine, looks can be deceiving. Materials and composition deteriorate beyond what is visible.  Also, neck, shoulder, and bike pain can result of an improper fitting bike. Handlebars, stems, and bike position all contribute to a rider’s stability, endurance, and safety.

Bike Inspection:  Just because your bike may not be making noises or shifting poorly doesn’t mean it doesn’t need some TLC.  Noises are obvious signals for inspection yet, regular bike maintenance is a necessity.  As you ride more through the summer season, some things that weren’t visible upon your first bike inspection earlier in the year may become apparent as the season progresses.  Regular maintenance is essential.  There are several things you want to do to keep it in good working order.  For starters, wipe down and inspect the frame. Remember to lube your chain and cables.  As unglamorous as chain lube is, it is a necessity.  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, inspect your brake pads. 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.

Wheel Inspection: Obvious inspections includes tires, rims, and spokes. 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.  But maybe you’re considering a new wheel set?  Or perhaps going tubeless on your mountain bike.  Sometimes making changes to your current setup can inspire motivation to get out there and ride.  Check out our video on Wheelset Buyer Guide for What You Need to Know.  Whether you are thinking about road bike wheel sets, mountain bike wheel sets or just getting some thoughts together on wheel buying parameters and how your wheel set will affect your overall ride and other bicycle parts, this video will guide your way.

Biofeedback: Remember, it’s not all about the bike!  Be mindful of bio feedback.  What is your body telling you? Have you recovered from your last training ride or training block? Do you need rest? Or, are you ready to get out there and put some major miles and efforts in?  If you’re not sure of the messages your body is telling you, read our post, Overtraining? How Nutrition and Sleep Play a Role in Recovery for insights as to the stages of training and what to do about them for best performance.  Fortunately, due to the advancement of technology, there are countless apps available to help dial in bio feedback measurements and evaluations on the fly. 

In a nutshell, if you take care of your bike and yourself, then you will remain healthy and injury free. Sounds simple, and it is, but you have to remember to do it. Safe pedals friends! 


The Trails Are Calling! Where to Ride for the 4th of July 

June 28, 2018

From 1776 until the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.  

While many American’s hang an American flag from their home, car, or work building, why not celebrate the 4th from your two wheels?  You can decorate your bike with bike bells, streamers, and the like; but why note take it a step further and include your bike riding in your holiday festivities? The question for some is, where to ride?  Ride trails of course!  Some of Colorado’s finest trails and beautiful views are in our backyard. Check out: 

  • White Ranch Trail
  • Dakota Ridge and Red Rocks Trail
  • North Table Mountain
  • Green Mountain Park
  • South Table Mountain
  • Chimney Gulch Trail
  • Apex Park Trail
  • Golden Gate Canyon State Park
  • Lair O’ the Bear
  • Buffalo Creek
  • Centennial Cone
  • Hall Ranch 

Now, before you head on any of these rides, be sure to be prepared!  Be especially considerate if you are taking young ones with you out on the trails or other riders that may not have been riding for a while.  Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  • Know the profile – How much climbing and descending should you expect?
  • Know the route – Where  is the trailhead?  How long is the route?  What is the technical difficulty? What type of terrain will you be riding?  And, what are the current trail conditions?  Considering it has been so hot and dry lately, you’ll definitely want to bring along hydration options. Think water bottles and hydration packs.  
  • Know the weather conditions before, during, and soon after you expect to ride.  Colorado weather changes quickly and sometimes, radically.  Be prepared. 
  • Know what cycling apparel to wear.  Being over or under dressed makes for an uncomfortable ride. 
  • Know which bike components are best for the terrain type and the right mountain bike tire to use.

In addition to preparing for your ride, you will want a checklist of essential items to carry with you.  

What else would you add to the list?  Oh yes! A well maintained bike!  Before heading out on your holiday adventures, be sure to conduct a bike maintenance and safety check. Notice any worn out bike parts to be replaced. Lube the chain and other bike components. For extra tips on getting ready, read our post, Spring Cleaning, 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road

As a reminder this 4th of July, our shop BikeParts.com offers a huge selection of road bike partsmountain bike partsBMX bike parts and more. If you need it for your bike, then we have it! Because we sell our bicycle parts online, we are able to help customers all over the world – even if you don’t celebrate the 4th. Stop by our Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado to pick up your 4th of July cycling accessories or visit us online at BikeParts.com.  Happy 4th of July friends! 

As a 4th of July bonus, read on for more ways to celebrate the holiday on your bike! 


5 Step Plan to Make the Most of Your 2018 Cycling Season 

May 31, 2018

June is here! Welcome blue skies, sunny days, and longer days!  All the perfect ingredients becoming us to ride, race, and enjoy being on our two wheeled friends.
Whether you are a recreational cyclist or a competitive one, no doubt you have some cycling goals in mind for the season.  

As we’re just launching into this year’s cycling season, it’s important to make the most of it by planning now. When you plan, goals get met.  You don’t want to look back over the season at the end of the year with regrets. So, whether you’re entering your first event or you’re a seasoned racer, planning your early season events can lay a foundation for confidence and physical fitness in which to build upon for the cycling season.  And at year end, you can look back with satisfaction with your achievements.  Here’s how to do it.  

#1 Think strategy first.  High level. What are your goals for the season? Are there races or events you have always wanted to do? Register – mark it on your calendar – and plan! We’ve written extensively on strategic planning.  Check out these posts for good ideas: Cycling Success: A Guide to Launch Your 2018 Spring Cycling Season and Keys to a Successful Cycling Race: Think Smart, Eat Smart.

#2 Next, prepare.  Preparation means alot of things.  Research your ride route. Identify the bike you will be riding. Replace old bike parts. Dial in your nutrition needs. Decide on your training plan.  Preparation paves the way for success.  And not to be overlooked, is dialing in your cycling accessories.  Get a checklist ready to have on hand for all your events.  We have a handy one here: Ready to Race? A Comprehensive Checklist for Spring Racing.

#3 As most living in Colorado know, weather conditions can change rapidly.  This means you have to be agile with your bike maintenance and cycling apparel.  You might want to read our popular posts Dry Pavement, Sloppy Slush and A Muddy Trail: Which Chain Lube Works Best? and Effective Training Techniques for Cycling in the Heat. Both offer useful information for making the best of your ride.  As for those afternoon rain storms, we suggest reading the post: Wet Weather? No Problem! 5 Essentials for Riding in the Rain.

#4 After a long or hard ride, recover.   it’s important to note that during the summer months it is easy to get swept away in the joys of riding. The temps are great – the trails are great- riding a new mountain bike or road bike is great!  But, with all the bike riding accompanies fatigue and over doing it. Be mindful to build in recovery to your training plan.  Some post worth reading include: Recovery: Ride Hard – Recovery Harder: Ways to Speed Up Recovery and Avoid Early Season Training Injuries with Rest and Recovery.

#5 Finally, take care of your bike!  Bike maintenance keeps you riding. You can either do bike maintenance yourself or bring your bike to us and we can do it for you.  Either way, some basic maintenance is necessary and to make sure you’re covered, you’ll want to read: 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road.

When you’re working toward a goal that’s important to you, the last thing you want is to face an obstacle or unexpected challenge.  There you have it – a 5 step plan to kick off your 2018 cycling season! Set up your 2018 right by planning ahead, getting your road bike or mountain bike in order, and getting the gear and resources you need.  With the right mental attitude and the best bike parts, your successful training and race prep is well underway.


Make the Most of Your Ride Time This Memorial Day Weekend 

May 24, 2018

Happy Memorial Day Weekend Riding from BikeParts.com

Wondering what to do with your day off this upcoming Memorial Day weekend? Ride, of course! Get ready for a fun weekend of riding by swinging by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to stock up on all things cycling related! 

You can ride in style this Memorial Day weekend by getting a new road or mountain bike.  One option is to shop our latest mountain bike and road bike close out items and our discounted collections of bike parts online.  Or better yet, have one of our expert crew help you select the best bike for you.  Stop by the shop and we can help you identify what to look for in buying a new bike and get you scheduled for a bike fit in the process.  

Making the most of the holiday weekend, you’ll want to stock up on essential items to carry with you. Make a note to stock up on: Food, gels, and on the bike nutrition; Tubes, lube, a pump or C02; chain and multi toolRain jacketSunscreenHydration pack and extra bottles for fluids. 

And don’t forget bike maintenance! With a little extra time off from work, many cyclist enjoy performing much needed bike maintenance over the holiday weekend.  Replacing worn bike parts and cycling accessories without the stress of added work and family pressures makes bike maintenance a pleasure and not a chore.  If the kids are around, engage them in the process and teach them a thing or two about bicycles.  Who knows? You might inspire them to ride too! 

And, as a little teaser to whet your appetite for Colorado’s finest, enjoy the cycling videos, pics, and trail reviews. 

Happy Memorial Day to All! We look forward to seeing you at the shop or visit us at bikeparts.com to get all of your cycling apparel, accessories, and bike parts.  


Cycling Inspiration for Earth Day

April 19, 2018

April 22nd is Earth Day! Yay! And, you might be wondering how bicycles benefit the environment? Or why ride them on this special day?

At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we are big supporters in our local community and race teams, and as such, we know bike commuting is a win-win for our local community. Basically, for anyone looking to save money, embrace a green or sustainable lifestyle, and promote healthy, livable cities, cycling is important.

To kick off your Earth Day preparations, you will want to read our post, Pedal Power for Earth Day, to explore the many benefits of bike commuting. As a next step, you will want to decide how you want to celebrate the day and keep the Earth Day mojo going thereafter. The magic in Earth Day is making every day Earth Day. Bike riding is a natural fit! The key is inspiring others to keep riding.

Inspire others with bike education programs. No one likes riding a poor fitting bike. Having the right bike setup, cycling accessories and gear makes all the difference. Consider hosting a get together of friends and review bike safety. Or, participate in a bike maintenance class. Bicycle tools are different than regular tools and all tools aren’t created equal – some are good for mountain bike parts while others are designed for road bike parts. Knowing which tools to use on the appropriate bike components can make all the difference in making bike maintenance easy inspiring others to enjoy bike maintenance in addition to riding.

Inspire your friends with a list of rides and events. Colorado has some of the greatest road bike rides in the country. Some are shorter, convenient rides whereas others offer steeper, longer climbs and extended distances. Certainly you have your favorite list. Invite your friends for a special Earth Day ride and make it an annual celebration.

Inspire others with a bike-friendly shopping program. Everyone likes to shop, right? Inspire friends with bike parts bling! Many aspiring bike riding enthusiast appreciate a shop that offers quality bike components along with solid advice on bike parts and cycling apparel. Stop by the shop to check out our specials, discounts, and new cycling accessories for the season. Who says you can’t ride in style for Earth Day?

Inspire through reading. Maybe you just can’t make it out on Earth Day for a ride. No worries. Check out our posts for inspiration:
– Get Your Kids Bike Commuting – Here’s How!
– Summer Bike Commuting – Making it Work For You
– The Smart Cyclist’s Guide to Preventing Bike Theft

All in all, the most important thing to remember for Earth Day is that bike riding is fun. Fun includes enjoying the adventure of cycling solo and with friends. Fun also means riding a well fitting bike and feeling confident in riding the bike paths and the roads. This way, your Earth Day bike ride becomes an environmentally friendly activity you can do every day!