March 1, 2018
Early Season Training for Peak Cycles Race Team
The winter months aren’t very conducive to maintaining a solid level of fitness and keeping in shape. Yet spring is right around the corner and with the warming temperatures and the start of daylight savings time it’s fair to say we’re seeing the first signs of spring. This can be both hugely exciting, and also slightly nerve racking for cyclists who have spent the winter months working towards spring or summer goals. So, what are the best ways to optimize your cycling to prepare best for the upcoming season? Rest assured, we’ve got you covered. Read on.
Optimize your fitness with a power meter:
Whether you plan to ride a century, multi-day rides, race or aspire to longer or more frequent rides in 2018, monitoring your early season training and racing sets the stage for a successful year ahead. Key points to keep in mind include training intensity, duration, and frequency. Our tip to do this? Use power meters and heart rate monitors to guide you. Given that early season training lends itself to “false” feedback. Meaning, because you may be fresh, your perceived effort on the bike may be low causing you to push too hard, too soon, and then training suffers later due to increased recovery time or even injury. By monitoring your efforts with specific data, you objectively know when you are pushing beyond your targeted indictors, as well as, when you aren’t pushing hard enough. This allows your body to adjust to increased training load over time and in a manner that meets your 2018 cycling season goals. Check out our post, The Best Training Aids to Launch into Spring Cycling, to dial in which training aid is best for you.
Optimize biological feedback with a heart rate monitor:
Speaking of heart rate, heart rate monitors are a funny thing – they can be completely useless or extremely valuable depending on how you use them. Heart rate training has been viewed in many ways over the years, from very precise to not so precise. Now, a growing number of coaches and exercise physiologists support the use of heart rates as an important part of biological feedback, as heart rates are a direct reflection of what is happening internally. If you’re new to training with heart rate monitors, the post, The Variables and Trends of Heart Rate Training, walks you through the steps of learning your “threshold” heart rate range, setting up heart rate training zones, and identifying the daily variables that affect heart rate. But before you begin to analyze data, you actually have to have a heart rate monitor to get started! Visit us at Peak Cycles Bike Shop or BikeParts.com to check out the heart rate monitors for the 2018 cycling season.
Optimize your riding position with a bike fit:
An often overlooked, yet incredibly powerful tool for improved cycling is a bike fit. If you haven’t ridden much through the winter, now is the best time for a bike fit. Why? Because your body is unaccustomed to the riding position. You have an opportunity to optimize your position and make needed upgrades to your road bike or mountain bike. Think of it this way – leg strength, endurance, and fitness are at the heart of cycling speed, but without a proper bike fit, you are sabotaging your training efforts. In a sport based on such a highly repetitive action, like pedaling, the first line of defense against injury is a proper bike fit. And, a bike fit goes beyond just setting saddle height and bar reach. To get the most enjoyment and reward from your training programs it’s critical to dial in the fit and confirm you have the right bike parts for optimal performance.
Optimize bike mechanics with regular inspection:
Bike maintenance can be a chore, but a necessity. As you ride more through the early 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. 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. If you are concerned about how to maintain and clean carbon frames, check out this video for best suggestions. Don’t forget 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. Remember, pre season bike maintenance and training paves the way for a long, healthy, and enjoyable cycling season.
There you have it! Plan for a successful cycling season by training right early season. A good bike fit, steady riding, and the use of training tools paves the way for a healthy, injury free 2018.
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Posted by staffwriter8
February 1, 2018
Winter Riding Tips from BikeParts.com
Here in Colorado we are spoiled by temperate conditions along the Front Range, allowing for great riding almost year round; however we do get challenging weather from time to time and winters can be rough and present a number of obstacles. That being said, the benefits of winter riding are plentiful and can be quite enjoyable. Following are our tips to winter riding.
Stay warm! It’s a no brainer. If you are warm and comfortable while riding, then you will enjoy your ride. So, take inventory of the cycling apparel you currently have and purchase additional items that are missing from your cycling wardrobe. If you’re not sure about what items you need, you might find our post, Winter Cycling: How to Enjoy It with Winter Layering Basics, to be helpful for ideas. Another option is to check out on our video. It’s a great resource outlining when to add certain layers at certain temperatures.
Take care of your bike! Winter riding poses many threats so having a bike in good working order keeps you safe, warmer, and provides the opportunity for a more enjoyable ride. Besides, a good ride always does the body and mind good! Our post, 5 Things You Should Know To Winter Proof Your Bike, illustrates the essentials of keeping your bike in good riding form for the winter months. Aside from bike prep, you’ll want to pay attention to bike maintenance and bike parts. Winter riding conditions aren’t the greatest. To keep the integrity of your cycling accessories on track, you’ll want to read our post, Winterizing Your Bike: What’s In Your Tool Kit?
Fuel your desire! Training in the colder months can be a chore. So, put some fun and adventure into your rides! One option it to try plus- size tires. Plus-size tires are a relatively new trend and they are gaining in popularity because the 3” tires handle snow really well but have a reasonable tire weight so you aren’t compromising speed performance. As a result, bikes with plus-size tires turn out to be an ideal all-season mountain bike and a purchase you won’t regret. The S-works Stumpjumper FSR Comp 6Fattie is our top-performing and most popular plus-size tired bike right now. If you really want to go big, ride a fat bike! Fat bikes go where no bicycle has gone before. 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. Discover the reasons to ride a fat bike in our post, Why Go Fat?
Have no fear of losing motivation in the winter months! The first step towards successfully riding through the winter months is dressing appropriately and winter proofing your bike. When you are confident in your bike and clothing options, there are less excuses to tell yourself for not riding and more reasons to get on the bike and enjoy the ride.
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Posted by staffwriter8
July 27, 2017
Bike tools at BikeParts.com
When riders head out for their rides, most cyclist think luck is on their side. Good luck with weather, riding conditions, and a lack of mechanical issues. But sometimes, luck is not on your side. Then what do you do?
Basically, there’s just no chance in risking it – it’s best to be prepared. Before you start on your ride you should think about a few things that will make your ride a much more pleasurable experience even if something goes wrong. At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, following are our staff suggestions to bring along on your rides.
Basic repair and maintenance kit
There are a few items you should bring with you for bicycle mechanical emergencies. All these items can fit in a small seat bag. The basic supplies you should have in your kit include a spare inner tube, tire levers, patch 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
Staying hydrated is a necessity on a ride of any length, even in cooler weather. You might think that on a shorter ride, a snack is not necessary, but a breakdown or other unforeseen circumstances might put you out on the road or trail longer than you expected. Given that gels and bars are small, just slip a few in your jersey pocket to have on hand.
Cash, ATM card, Personal Identification
You don’t need a lot of cash but a little cash, say $5 or $10 just in case you want to stop for food or water. Also, it’s important to bring some sort of identification. A drivers license works best; others prefer to wear a RoadID. If you don’t wear a RoadID, you will want to carry something that has contact information in case of an emergency.
Despite the fact that most rides go well, there’s a lot that can go wrong on a ride and the chances are they’ll go wrong when you’re at your farthest point from home. Make it easy on yourself and have the right bike parts, cycling accessories, and bicycle tools with you.
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Posted by staffwriter8
June 29, 2017
Happy 4th of July from BikeParts.com
While most Americans celebrate the 4th by grilling, outfitting themselves in the American flag, and watch fireworks, cyclists around the country seem to agree with the notion that July 4th should be celebrated on a bike.
Family barbecues, warm weather, and a feeling of freedom convert flawlessly into an invigorating, fun cycle. What are the most common ways cyclist are celebrating the 4th with their two wheeled friends? Following are the top ideas we’ve heard at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop:
- Race – Celebrate the 4th of July by racing! Whether it is racing on a road bike or a mountain bike, you’ll want to check out the races that are going on this holiday weekend on 303 Cycling’s Race Calendar.
- R&R – If you are up for some “active” rest and relaxation, then sit back and watch the Tour de France! Beginning July 1 – 23rd, the daily stage races offer your daily fix of cycling drama! No doubt, watching the tour will get your adrenaline will be pumping!
- Drink – and it’s not what you think! While you might think of the 4th of July as an opportunity to consume adult beverages, we’re actually talking about water and other nutritional products. It’s hot out there folks -hydration and proper fueling for riding is important! Many cyclist have different preferences as to how they prefer to get their fuel while riding – whether that is in nutrition bars, gels, and liquids. Some of our favorite nutritional products for summer are: Oslo nutrition , Scratch Labs, and Honey Stinger products. Stock up now and be ready to roll for the entire month of July.
- Bike commute – Maybe hanging out with friends and your family is your thing for the 4th of July. That doesn’t mean you have to forgo your bike ride. Bike commute to the farmer’s market, to see fireworks, to see a music festival, or a local restaurant. A casual stroll on the bike is enjoyable for everyone. Plus, you get to see the local sites without the heavy breathing and fatigued legs you may experience when doing a full blown ride.
- 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!
- Last but not least, if you are looking for additional ideas on celebrating the 4th with your two wheeled friend, check out our post, Red, White, and Blue: 5 Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July on Your Bike.
As a reminder this 4th of July, our shop BikeParts.com offers a huge selection of road bike parts, mountain bike parts, BMX bike parts and more. If you need it for your bike, then we have it! Visit us in in Golden, Colorado to pick up your 4th of July cycling accessories or visit us online at BikeParts.com.
Happy 4th of July friends!
Leave a Comment » | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: 4th of July, bike maintenance, bike nutrition, bike parts, cycling accessories, Honey Stinger, Oslo nutrition, Scratch Labs, Tour De France | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
April 6, 2017
Spring riding and racing is just around the corner and athletes everywhere are starting to think about their “A” races as well as secondary races to use for training and motivation. A given rule of thumb is that all races and events provide experience, training benefits, and act as a stage to assess your form.
However, while some may have trained through the winter months, many have not. And the alluring call of gorgeous spring days lures many unprepared cyclist to ride too hard, too fast which can lead to injuries or a set back in the 2017 cycling season. To avoid injury or setback, follow these tips to help transition into a healthy and rewarding Spring cycling season.
Tip #1
Whether you plan to ride a century, multi-day rides, race or aspire to longer or more frequent rides in 2017, monitoring your early season training and racing sets the stage for a successful year ahead. Key points to keep in mind include training intensity, duration, and frequency. Our tip to do this? Use power meters and heart rate monitors to guide you. Given that early season training lends itself to “false” feedback. Meaning, because you may be fresh, your perceived effort on the bike may be low causing you to push too hard, too soon, and then training suffers later due to increased recovery time or even injury. By monitoring your efforts with specific data, you objectively know when you are pushing beyond your targeted indictors, as well as, when you aren’t pushing hard enough. This allows your body to adjust to increased training load over time and in a manner that meets your 2015 cycling season goals. Check out our post, The Best Training Aids to Launch into Spring Cycling, to dial in which training aid is best for you.
Tip #2
An often overlooked, yet incredibly powerful tool for improved cycling is a bike fit. If you haven’t ridden much through the winter, now is the best time for a bike fit. Why? Because your body is unaccustomed to the riding position. You have an opportunity to optimize your position and make needed upgrades to your road bike or mountain bike. Think of it this way – leg strength, endurance, and fitness are at the heart of cycling speed, but without a proper bike fit, you are sabotaging your training efforts. In a sport based on such a highly repetitive action, like pedaling, the first line of defense against injury is a proper bike fit. And, a bike fit goes beyond just setting saddle height and bar reach. To get the most enjoyment and reward from your training programs it’s critical to dial in the fit and confirm you have the right bike parts for optimal performance.
Tip #3
Get your bike race ready – It’s obvious, but often overlooked with the excitement of the season – but that is getting your bike ready to race. Our post, Spring Cleaning! 4 Essential Bike Maintenance Tips to Get Your Bike on the Road, walks you through all the bike maintenance and safety checks needed before embarking on epic training rides. Fortunately, all the bikes, bike parts , cycling accessories, and cycling apparel you’ll need can be found on our website – bikeparts.com. And, if you aren’t into doing bike maintenance yourself, Call or stop in to Peak Cycles in Golden, CO to schedule your bike for a full tune-up.
Tip #4
Be prepared. April kicks off the season in Colorado with the Boulder-Roubaix, Front Range Classic, Fruita Fat Tire Festival, and Koppenberg Road Race. Not only are you testing your fitness in these early season races, but you’re also testing your memory! Don’t forget necessary event and race itms. We’ve prepared a handy, comprehensive checklist for Spring racing.
Tip #5
Early season cycling tempts cyclists to jump into race training with all the intensity, determination, and vigor they can muster. While these are positive mentalities to have, its important that competitive bicyclists not let their excitement for spring training cause them to overwork themselves. Recovery is critical. Our post, Don’t Compromise Your Spring Training Recovery Rides! Here’s How… offers resources for you to learn about recovery best-practices and get the fuel and equipment you need for adequate recovery.
Finally, have fun! Enjoy the launch of the cycling season!
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Posted by staffwriter8
March 30, 2017
Waterproof Jackets for Spring Cycling @ BikeParts.com
There is no such thing as “bad biking weather”, just ask those happy folks cycling around the Front Range every day of the year. Most cyclist have experienced a sprinkle, shower, or torrential downpour at some point during their cycling career—but with the right gear and attitude, riding in wet weather can be acceptable, and maybe even fun. Here’s what you need.
Rain jacket – Cycling rain jackets are optimized to be fully waterproof and breathable while allowing for a range of movement, and they often have subtle (or unsubtle) reflective accents. The thing to be mindful of when choosing one is the hood. If you ride in a helmet, is the hood big enough to fit over it? If not, opt for a head cap. A cycling cap, worn underneath your helmet, will help keep the rain from running into your eyes while you ride, and help shield your face from the rain.
Shoe covers or waterproof shoes – Shoe covers, also known as booties, cover the exterior of your shoes and protect from wet, cold, and wind. There are several options: some that cover just the toes and others that encompass the entire foot. Sometimes, even shoe covers aren’t enough protection. Waterproof cycling shoes and boots can be a very smart investment, especially if you’re determined to ride in the rain frequently.
Gloves – Perched out on your handlebars your hands face the brunt of the weather. As your hands become numb from the constant rain, their temperature quickly cools, and before too long you can have some very frozen fingers to deal with. Frozen fingers aren’t much good at changing gear, braking or clinging to the handlebars, and they’re extremely uncomfortable. Opt for full finger / windproof gloves and waterproof gloves.
Lights – Even if it’s daylight out, you should ride with lights—for the same reason cars turn their lights on in the rain. The sky is darker, rain can obscure your outline, and drivers are already distracted. Using lights will make you more visible, and help you stay safe.
Maintenance – Experiencing mechanical difficulties in wet conditions is not fun! A well maintained bike is a fun bike to ride – even in the rain. While bike maintenance can be a chore, having the right set of bike components and bicycle tools can make all the difference. Good reminders for riding in wet conditions is to wipe down and inspect the frame. Then, follow that up by applying lube your chain and pivot points.
Finally, adjust your attitude! Learn to love riding in the rain. Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop or visit us at BikeParts.com to select the cycling apparel that matches your riding style and wet riding needs.
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Posted by staffwriter8
March 16, 2017
Team Rider at BikeParts.com / Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop
Planning and preparing for race season is part of a cyclist’s yearly ritual. Looking forward to focused training and racing is what keeps most coming back season after season. However, a common misconception is that all of an athlete’s time needs to be devoted to the bike when race preparation begins. Not true. Having the right pre season mindset can be a game changer for performance and satisfaction.
Set Goals – Everyone has different goals. For some, races are just about getting harder efforts in and saddle time. For others, it’s making the podium. For most cyclist, it’s about achieving personal bests. The most important aspect of having a goals it that it can help reduce pre race anxiety and also help you better evaluate your performance post race. Identify what you want to accomplish with early season races – whether it be a targeted heart rate or power zone, a solid nutrition plan, or attacking certain areas on the race course.
Pre Race Bike Preparations – While you may have been training on your road bike or mountain bike, race conditions may require more from your bike. Before you head for the start line, you should conduct a bike maintenance and safety check. Know which bikes, bike parts, cycling accessories, and cycling apparel are appropriate for the trail or road route you will be racing. Remember, because it’s early season, the weather fluctuates, so consider variable weather conditions and the bike tools and bike parts you may require under different conditions. Preparation eliminates the frustration of experiencing a mechanical; so while bike maintenance may not always be fun, it’s worthwhile.
Establish Race Day Rituals – Most likely it’s been a while since your last race; so remembering what your routines and rituals that worked last season may be absent for this seasons first races. Designing and refining a pre-event routine is an important part of building a successful race season. Does having a checklist of race day activities help structure your preparation to the start line? Include items such as nutrition, hydration, clothes, gear, extra bike parts and basic bike tools. Consider having a timer count down so you don’t loose track of time. This way, you won’t forget anything as you prepare for your start. Use each early season race to build on race day rituals that have helped you in the past and also enhance your support for your next race.
Start Line Mental State – Your thoughts, emotions, and pre race behaviors are components of your mental state. With that in mind, take inventory of your mental state and align them with your goals. It’s easy to compare your training and fitness to others. This is where having your race plan and goals specific to this event comes in handy.
Mid Race Mental Toughness – Generally at some point during the race, something is going to go wrong – or at least, not quite as ideal as expected. Either you suffer from a mechanical issue or your race day nutrition is off or you just feel the suffering from a hard effort. This is the time to dig deep and exercise mental toughness. As described in the post, Developing Mental Toughness: Are you Tough Enough?, “mental toughness is your ability to persevere in the face of challenges, to keep going even when things get hard, and to have an unrelenting commitment to your goals. When you develop your mental toughness, obstacles are only temporary and one bad performance doesn’t shake your belief in your ability.” Your “stick to it” attitude during early season races prepares you for the bigger challenges you will face later in the race year.
Post Race Evaluation – Evaluate your results based on your goals. What worked? What didn’t? What can you do next race to get a better result? Be objective and explore how your mental and physical training helped prepare you for this event.
A winning mindset isn’t a set it and forget it type of thing. Consistency and flexibility are crucial elements in the ongoing approach to your races as the season unfolds. Be consistent in your preparations yet build upon what you have learned to fire up the engine and get out there and race better with each race!
2 Comments | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike maintenance, bike parts, bike tools, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, early season training, hydration, nutrition, race preparations | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
February 9, 2017
Our two wheeled friends have a way of bringing people together. Whether it is for a competitive group ride, a casual bike ride with friends, or a stroll with our significant other.
Riding bikes has a way of unleashing powerful emotions. You know, like the sense of power you get when the wind is at your back. Or, the seance of wonder and appreciation you feel upon glancing at our natural environment. Emotions are an expression of the joy we get from riding our bike.
Since bike riding gifts our spirits and bodies with so much, why not share the love this Valentine’s Day with your bike?
Upgrade dated or worn bike parts
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to show your bike some love! At BikeParts.com we have ongoing closeouts that save on bike parts, cycling apparel, and cycling accessories. With that in mind, replace bike parts regularly.
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 chains, cassettes, chainrings, brake pads, and cleats. Stay one step ahead of the game by purchasing these types of bike parts on sale and have them on hand when you need them.
Bike Maintenance
Bike maintenance can be a chore, but a necessity. Regular maintenance is essential to any good relationship, right? Including the relationship with your bike! There are several ways to show your bike some love. For starters, wipe down and inspect the frame. Rain, snow, mud, 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.
Don’t forget 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.
Experience something new
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. Better yet, purchase a new bike.
There are other ways to show some love for our sport this Valentine’s Day. Consider donating unused or older bike parts to someone or an organization in need. Pledge to support bike programs like People for Bikes or Bike Denver. Maybe show your own heart some love and invest in a new heart rate monitor and take your fitness to a new level.
Regardless of how you express your love for bikes and cycling, all of us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, encourage you to embrace your true love of the sport this Valentine’s Day.
Leave a Comment » | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike maintenance, bike parts, BikeParts.com, fat bike, heart rate monitor, Valentine's Day | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
November 3, 2016
Training Tips at BikeParts.com
With the time change this upcoming weekend, darkness will fall earlier each day making it more challenging to fit training rides in the schedule. But fear not, at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we have training strategies that can help you make the best of the daylight and night hours!
Given that the days with long sunshine hours are ending, there are ways to make the most of the daytime hours. It requires a little planning and creativity. Also, time management plays an important role here. Scheduling your workouts in your calendar; shifting meetings and family obligations to early morning, late afternoon and early evening; and optimizing your lunch hour as ride time, are three areas that can assist in getting your scheduled training in during the daylight hours. Again, the idea here is to create a plan and stick to it. If you plan a ride during the daylight hours and miss it, then it creates stress on how to make that ride up. However, as other bike enthusiasts know, riding at night can be fun, relaxing, and a delightful end to the day. If you are up for a little adventure, here’s how to make night time riding work for you!
Be 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.
Explore your 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 or bike paths 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. A way to overcome this is to invest in a good set of lights. With that being said, be mindful that your route doesn’t exceed your lights battery capacities.
Become a fan of 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 bicycle 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.
Daylight riding or riding at night – it’s all good! As you can see, there’s no need to fear the time change. The time change can mark the end of the season and bring on a new adventure. Embrace creativity and plan your rides during daytime hours. Or, seek adventure and embrace the challenge and make night riding work for you!
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bicycle tools, bike maintenance, bike parts, cycling apparel, How to Dress for Winter Cycling, lights, night riding, vest | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
October 13, 2016
Replace Drivetrain parts in the Fall
Each season has its own ups and downs. Spring and summer seasons are marked with event registrations, travel, and enjoying the cycling lifestyle. The winter season is the least expensive as most cyclist scale down their training or ride more indoors.
However, the fall season is somewhat of a mixture of all that. Racing continues yet weather conditions cause havoc on bikes and bike gear. When you add up all the gear, maintenance, and event fees, then riding bikes can be expensive. Following are 5 ways to save money saving bike tips for fall.
- Patch your tubes. When you get a flat, don’t just throw the tube away. Hang on to it and patch it when you get home. Patches are fairly inexpensive and can give your tube new life.
- Clean and maintain your bike regularly. The maintenance schedule for a bike can vary somewhat on how often it’s ridden. However, performing regular bike inspections can provide injury free and enjoyable riding. Also, regular bike maintenance can extend the life of your bike parts and cycling accessories.
- Look for discounted gear online and at bike swaps. At BikeParts.com we have ongoing closeouts that save on bike parts, cycling apparel, and cycling accessories. Check out those options. Another option is to check out the annual Veloswap here in Denver, Colorado on October 22nd.
- Replace bike parts regularly. 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 chains, cassettes, chainrings, brake pads, and cleats. Stay one step ahead of the game by purchasing these types of bike parts on sale and have them on hand when you need them.
- Sign up early for races or events. Waiting last minute to register for events can be costly. Avoid late or day-of registration fees for races and events by signing up ahead of time. You’ll have a little extra cash in your pocket—not to mention the extra motivation that comes with making a financial commitment.
With a little planning, it’s easy to save money and continue to embrace the transition from summer to fall. Enjoy!
Leave a Comment » | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike closeouts, bike maintenance, bike parts, brake pads, cassettes, chainrings, chains, cycling accessories, Denver Veloswap, fall cycling, tubes | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
May 26, 2016
Wondering what to do with your day off this upcoming Memorial Day weekend? Ride, of course! As the cycling season kicks off, there are plenty of casual and competitive cycling activities to do.
Rescheduled from a previous date, the infamous Koppenberg Race leads the weekend actives for competitive road bike athletes. The Koppenberg Race featuring a 17% grade climb and is considered the queen of the spring time cycling events in Colorado. This event jump starts the cycling season with an impressive 5.5 mile road race circuit, with 300ft of elevation gain per lap, and includes 2 miles on a packed dirt road. Join in the fun if you are ready for a lung burning, leg twitching feast! More information can be found here. And, while you’re at it, you can prepare to recover well from this race with our compression gear and nutritional recovery supplements- specifically bars, gels, and recovery drinks. You have to get ready for the next ride, right?
Speaking of next rides, the 2016 – Cafe Velo Gran Fondo is on Sunday. This event starts and finishes in Monument, Colorado at the Pikes Peak Brewery. What’s great about this ride is that you have the option to choose from 1, 2, 3, 4 or up to 5 loops (110 miles, 9110 foot elevation gain) making it a great recovery ride from the Koppenberg Race or a great season starter if you are just now getting back on the bike. The ride covers a scenic 22 mile loop with an 1822 foot elevation gain through scenic Northern El Paso County; so plan according to your level of fitness.
While not local to the Front Range, this weekend also hosts the famous Iron Horse Bicycle Classic in Durango, Colorado. The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is one of the oldest cycling events in the country (since 1972) and is a multi-event bicycling weekend for cyclists of all levels. Beautiful 10,000-foot mountain passes on the ride or race to Silverton on Saturday. Wonderful Sunday events in downtown Durango including kid races, the costume ride, road circuit race and mountain bike race. Monday completes the weekend with an individual time trial.
You’ll want to visit their website for more information.
If road riding isn’t your thing, consider making the trip to Gunnison, Colorado for The Original Growler endurance mountain bike race. This popular event usually fills up so fast you generally can’t get in to the event. Fortunately, this year’s Sunday’s Full – Growler and Half Growler are still open for registration. Keep in mind, the course takes place in rugged, isolated backcountry terrain. That means, check your bike for the right bike parts, have your hydration pack full, bring your nutritional items, and have all your necessary cycling apparel on hand. Why? Because the event is remote, organizers responding to mechanicals or an injured rider could be time consuming and difficult on this course. Plan accordingly.
Finally, maybe traveling this weekend isn’t your thing. No worries – we’ve got you covered! Check out Our Guide to The Best Bike Trails in Golden, Colorado to create an adventurous day of trail riding. Or spend some time preparing for the upcoming season. Consider performing bike maintenance, schedule a bike fit, or shop for new cycling apparel. We bet Our New POC Cycling Gear Makes You a Better Rider.
Whichever rides or races you opt to do, Happy Memorial Day weekend to you!
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Posted by staffwriter8
April 21, 2016
There are so many things to pay attention to in order to prepare for a race. As a competitive cyclist, you have to be savvy in a number of different key areas such as cycling nutrition, bike maintenance, repairing or replacing bike parts, and knowing how to use various cycling accessories such as power meters and heart rate monitors to maximize performance.
If you also have a full-time job, it’s a lot to think about! In this article, we’re going to help take the load off your mind by focusing on a very specific aspect of race prep – eating before, during and after a race. Hopeful you can glean some useful information for you upcoming competition.
Keep in mind that eating changes depending on the distance and intensity of your race/workout. Not all suggestions may apply.
Before:
We typically find lots of articles that talk about what you should eat after a race, but not as many about what you should eat before. The key is, if you are already eating healthy and balanced meals, you probably don’t have to change much before a race.
One thing you want to make sure you are including in your pre-race diet the night before a race are carbohydrates. Carbs store glycogen in your muscles, which will be burned during the race the next day. Foods like pasta, breads, and rice are carb-heavy that could be on your dinner plate. Try to keep protein dense foods at a minimum.
If you have a long or particularly intense race the next day, you can do what’s called “carb-loading.” Cycling Tips explains that carb-loading typically takes place 2 days before your race. Male athletes can typically store about 1,500 to 1,900 calories of carbs in the blood, liver and muscles combined. And after two hours of exercise, glycogen levels will be depleted. Cycling Tips recommends eating 10 grams of carbs per kg of body weight daily in the two days before the race.
During:
There is no formula that stipulates how much you should eat during a race because different body types and habits cause athletes to have different eating patterns. Some of the variables that determine how much athletes should eat include: lean body mass, metabolic efficiency, intensity, race distance, and environmental conditions.
CoachLevi.com offers some valuable insights into what cyclists might eat during rides at varying distances and intensity.
If you feel that you should be eating differently, here are some questions from Training Peaks that guide your eating habits:
Do you find that you have enough energy for your workouts and races?
- You should finish strong but spent, not crawling home or hitching a ride!
- Eat more often if you bonk!
Do you ever get “grumpy” during a long session?
- If so, you likely aren’t consuming enough carbohydrates.
Do you experiencing GI distress?
- You might be consuming too much or need to combine different sources of carbohydrate (i.e., glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltodextrin).
- You can try fewer calories or read labels to find products made with multiple carbohydrate sources and try different brands of products.
- You might also work on metabolic efficiency to see if you can reduce the number of calories you need.
Do you seem to be able to eat whatever you want, even when the intensity is high?
- No reason to back off if it is working for you!
After:
Right after a race you want to digest simple carbohydrates such as bananas, a bagel, or maybe even a slice of pizza. These things are often offered at the end of a race. Eating caloric-dense foods will restore your glycogen levels in your liver and muscles and getting some protein will help your muscles recover.
Stay away from the really fatty foods and foods high in protein. We know that some of you may be craving potato chips and whole pizzas, but its not the best thing for you.
See the article, “Maximize Your Post Race Recovery“ from Training Peaks for more information.
For more information, don’t hesitate to visit our website or stop into our store – Peak Cycles in Golden, Colorado. We have tons of advice, as well as bikes, bike parts, cycling accessories, and cycling apparel.
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike maintenance, bike parts, bikes, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, cycling nutrition, cycling tips, eating smart, heart rate monitors, peak cycles, power meters, race nutrition, training peaks | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
March 31, 2016
You know that dark place in the garage where you never go? You know, the area where all the spiders hang out and no human dares approach for months on end. Well, we are aware that some of you store your bike there over the winter months. But now that spring is here and the roads are clear, you’re going to have to find some courage and release your bike from its dungeon; It’s ready to be ridden.
Before you mount your neglected steed, however, you should conduct a bike maintenance and safety check. Here are some steps that you can follow to make sure your bike are in tip-top shape for the spring cycling season:
- Clean Your Bike: Chances are that if your bike has been sitting in the garage for a while, it has accumulated some dust. Dust somehow finds its way into all of the secret nooks and crannies that often don’t see the light of day, so being thorough and methodical in the way that you clean your bike is to your advantage. Grab a rag, a brush, and a biodegradable cleaner and clean everything — the frame, chain, chain rings, cassette, derailleurs, pedals, brakes, and seat.
- Paying Attention to Your Chain: 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 Peelz, turn your crank 15-20 revolutions and let your scrubber do the job for you.
- Check your Wheels and Tires: Both your wheels and tires are essential for bike safety and efficiency and are important to inspect before jumping on the saddle. Clean 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.
- Inspect Your Brakes: When your 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 turing. Brake pads wear down over time so you should examine your brake pads for any uneven or extensive wear. If you do find uneven abrasions, you probably need to get your brakes adjusted.
Some basic bike tools that you’ll want to have include:
If you are interested in learning more about how you can maintain your bike, we’d be happy to share information with you. And all the bikes, bike parts , cycling accessories, and cycling apparel you’ll need can be found on our website – bikeparts.com. We also highly recommend that you get a tune-up by a professional before taking it out on serious rides. Call or stop in to Peak Cycles in Golden, CO to schedule your bike for a full tune-up. We encourage you to think ahead because we get a large influx of bike tune-up requests in the spring.
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike cleaning, bike maintenance, bike parts, BikeParts.com, bikes, bio, biodegradable cleaner, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, eco-friendly degreaser, Park Tool Cyclone Chain Scrubber, Pedros Oranj Peelz, spring cycling | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
February 18, 2016
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 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? Choose your chain lube wisely!
Picking the right chain lubricant can be one of the more frustrating things you’ll do as a cyclist. There’s a million different types to pick: wet lubes, dry lubes, waxes, spray ons, drop ons, biolubes, and others. Scratching your head, you might think, can’t just one chain lube do the trick? Well, when you consider that different chain lubricants are designed for different environments, the answer is a maybe. Think of it this way, what may protect a chain or drivetrain component in one climate may actually do harm in another. There’s an assortment of manufactures from Pedro’s, Finish Line, Pro Gold, Bike Medicine, Squirt, and White Lightning, how do you choose? Start with the basics in understanding bike chain lubricants.
Wet Lubes – A wet lube is thick enough to stay on the chain, thin enough to penetrate all of the small moving parts, and will remain wet (to the feel) till it is cleaned off or washes away. This lube cleans, lubricates and protects the chain from corrosion. The best time to use this type of lube is in wet or muddy conditions and areas where there is not a lot of dust. The down side to using a wet lube is that because they stay wet on the chain they collect a lot of dirt and debris.
Dry Lubes – A dry lube, on the other hand, is a lube that has an alcohol base and dries on the chain leaving a waxy film that protects and lubricates the chain. Most dry lubes take about 3-4 hours to dry and should be applied with enough time to dry before the ride. The major advantage to a dry lube is that it does not collect much, if any dirt. The down side is dry lubes wear off quickly, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
Wax Lubes – Wax lubes are essentially very dry lubes and, as the name suggests, are very waxy. In addition to lubricating your drivetrain, wax lubes also help keep your chain clean. Part of the reason it is so clean, however, is the number of applications that are required. Wax lube will either need to be washed off or it will have the ability to flake away on its own. This kind of lube does not last long when used in wet or muddy conditions, but it also leaves the least amount of messy residue – which is nice for your surrounding bike parts.
Bike maintenance isn’t always fun to do, but obviously necessary. So, what about which bike lubricant to use in different conditions? Basically, wet lubes are ideal for rainy, wet conditions. Dry lubrication is perfect for dry conditions. In varying conditions, many cyclist prefer dry lube over wet, despite the fact that it requires more application and drying time.
An interesting little-known fact about chain lubricants, is that at Peaks Cycles Bicycle Shop, we have the largest assortment of chain lubricants available. Stop by the shop in Golden, Colorado to check out our display and while you’re at it, be sure to view our 2016 cycling apparel and accessories. Nothing pairs better with chain lube than new bike parts or cycling apparel, right?
2 Comments | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike maintenance, Bike Medicine chain lubricant, bike parts, chain lube, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, drivetrain component, dry lubes, Finish Line chain lubricant, Pedro's chain lubricant, Pro Gold chain lubricant, Squirt chain lubricant, wax lubes, wet lubes, White Lightning chain lubricant | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
October 22, 2015
Winter Proof Your Bike @ BikeParts.com
Winter is coming in most parts of the country. But even though it is winter does not mean that you have to give up riding your bike. 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 provides the opportunity for a more enjoyable ride. Besides, a good ride always does the body and mind good! The trick to making winter riding work for you is to winterize your bike. 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.
- Invest in fenders! You’ll love them because the fight off salt, sand, and oil-laden road spray. By installing full fenders, you will keep crud off clothing and grit from getting into—and wearing out—most components. And you!
- Keep the rubber side down! Slick surfaces and crashes are fun – said no one- ever! Do yourself a favor and invest in new tires. New tires will be easier to control on icy roads and slushy trails. We have a huge selection of mountain bike and road bike tires online at BikeParts.com and also in our Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop. Stop by to hand select the best tires for you.
- Wipe your bike down. Combat corrosion and griminess due to salt and dirt by wiping down your frame after each ride. This is especially important for wet bikes. 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. You’ll want to make a point to clean your bike chain weekly.
- Safety First! Be seen and be safe. Winter riding involves riding in grey days! Of course, 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. You may also consider purchasing 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.
- Avoid a wardrobe malfunction! 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. Check out our post, Avoid a Clothing Crisis! New Threads to Keep you Warm for Fall and Winter Cycling for great winter riding clothing options.
Have no fear of losing cycling motivation in the winter months! The first step towards successfully riding through the winter months is winter proofing your bike. When you are confident in your bike and clothing options, there are less excuses to tell yourself for not riding and more reasons to get on the bike and enjoy the ride.
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: Avoid a Clothing Crisis! New Threads to Keep you Warm for Fall and Winter Cycling, bicycle parts, bike maintenance, cycling apparel, fendors, lights, mountain bike, road bike, tires, vests, winter riding | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
October 1, 2015
A BikeParts.com bike commuter
Fall bike riding offers the chance to enjoy cooler temperatures, view the changing colors of the leaves, and reinvigorate your spirit with the freedom riding a bike inspires. What is true for adults is also true for kids! As the school season is underway, many children are coping with new daily routines which include more structure and less playtime. Riding a bike to school is a great way for kids to get exercise, develop healthy habits, as well as, enjoy some extra playtime.
As many adults know, exercise helps reduce stress, aid with weight management and promote bone, muscle, and joint health. But what you may not know, is that riding a bike to school may also help your child’s academic performance. Bicycling to school can help contribute to the developmental health of children. Despite the benefits, some parents are left with concerns as to how to make bicycling to school a win – win. A win for their child in that they enjoy the experience and a win for the parents in that you have confidence your child arrives safely on their commute. Here’s what you need to know to make biking to school a success for both you and your child.
- Think about whether riding a bike to school makes sense for your child. If your child attends a neighborhood school biking may be a good option. If you child is at a charter school across town where she plays the double bass in the orchestra, biking to school may not work. Look at your child’s schedule and consider biking to school on days that are best.
- Scout a route to school. Look for side streets, other kids on bikes, low traffic speeds and good visibility. Ride the route with your child and make sure he understands the route. Have him lead to show you that he knows where he is going.
- Talk with other parents and the principal to address real and perceived obstacles to getting kids on bikes.
- Dial in your child’s bike. Bring it into the shop for bike maintenance and ensure all bike parts are working properly.
- Make sure your child knows the rules of the road.
- Invest in needed items. Purchase a quality bike lock and teach your child how to use it wisely. Consider getting a quality pannier or messenger bag instead of a backpack. Also, be sure to have the appropriate cycling apparel for the season.
In fact, Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop is only store in Golden, CO that serves kids cycling needs. We have bike parts and cycling accessories that includes windbreakers, gloves, shorts, jersey’s, chamois, pedals, hats, backpacks, and bikes that kids love. Most importantly, we have reflective materials to put on your child’s bike to make sure they are visible. Stop by the shop or visit us online at www.BikeParts.com. We’re here to help you and your family make biking to school a win-win for all!
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike commuting, bike lock, bike maintenance, bike parts, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, Fall bike riding, gloves, jersey, kids bike to school, kids clothing, kids cycling accessories, messenger bag, pannier bag, shorts, windbreakers | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
June 11, 2015
BikeParts.com Team Rider Kyle Crawley on his way to finishing in 4th Place at the Gunnison Growler 32
Guess who is rocking the coolest bikes, the best bike parts, and crushing it in Colorado’s toughest road and mountain bike races?
You guessed it – Peak Cycles Racers! We’re super proud of Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop Sponsored Cycling Teams including Peak Cycles XC, Gravity and BMX teams, Colorado School of Mines, The Golden High School mountain bike team, Tough Girl Cycling, Twin Peaks Racing, and The Colorado Collective. Early season success has come easily to these athletes. Countless podium finishes and successful racing has caused many followers of the teams to wonder what are the secrets to combining racing and training for a successful summer cycling season? What are these athletes doing that we all can do to improve our cycling performance?
For starters, there are many different approaches to training and racing. Typical training weeks may vary in distance, intensity, and training hours. Some athletes prefer a structured approach to their racing season; whereas others prefer to keep it casual by mixing in shop rides and even front range bucket list rides to test fitness and keep training fresh.
But at a minimum, there are the basics which pretty much everyone follows. This includes ongoing bike maintenance, repairing and/ or replacing bike parts, continued bike nutrition while riding, and a strong focus on hydration on and off the bike. It sounds simple enough but a properly fit bike – that is ready to ride – makes cycling fun, easy, and keeps you riding!
Regardless of your approach, one of the winning secrets for training and racing is using tools for bio feedback. Cycling accessories, as in power meters and /or heart rate monitors offers bio feedback monitoring of your efforts with specific data so that you objectively know when you are pushing beyond your targeted indictors, as well as, when you aren’t pushing hard enough.
Our post, The Best Training Aids to Launch into Spring Cycling, dives into the benefits of training with power. You may also want to check out our post, Heart Rate Training – What You Need to Know for our staff picks at Peak Cycles Bike Shop. You can also learn steps in discovering your “threshold” heart rate range, setting up heart rate training zones, and identifying the daily variables that affect heart rate.
While it’s not a secret, and we hinted at it earlier, an often overlooked component of successful racing and training is a bike fit. If you haven’t ridden much this Spring, now is the best time for a bike fit. Why? Because your body is unaccustomed to the riding position. You have an opportunity to optimize your position and make needed upgrades to your road bike or mountain bike.
There are countless suggestions that we can offer for training and racing tips but nothing can replace the passion, discipline, and love of the sport that our staff and team riders embrace. For more winning race and training secrets, stop by the Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and ask our staff for ideas and suggestions. Also, keep current by following our Facebook page for updates. Happy riding!
3 Comments | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: bike fit, bike maintenance, bike parts, Colorado School of Mines Cycling, cycling accessories, heart rate monitors, hydration, power meters, Racing and Training Secrets, The Colorado Collective, The Golden High School mountain bike team, Tough Girl Cycling, Twin Peaks Racing | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
April 30, 2015
As cyclist, we know the more we ride, the more we want to ride! So, how can you make cycling get even better? Make a whole month celebration of it! Whether you bike to work or school; ride to save money or time; pump those pedals to preserve your health or the environment; or simply to explore your community, May is National Bike Month and is an opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride.
As cyclist, we experience the benefits that cycling has to offer but to those new to the sport, embarking in unfamiliar territory may seem a tad intimidating. National Bike Month is an opportunity to inspire others to our sport. Fortunately, bike commuting is on the rise! In fact, among the 51 largest U.S. cities, 43 hosted Bike to Work Day events in 2010. The City of Denver reported the highest rate of participation with one out of every 28 adults participating in its 2010 Bike to Work event. That effort makes a difference: Many people who participate in their Bike to Work Day promotion as first-time commuters become regular bike commuters. But Bike Month is more than one day — or week! It’s an entire month!
There are countless ways to inspire others to bike commute, ride, or race this month. See which activities inspire you to help others enjoy our fabulous sport!
Inspire with a bike-friendly shopping program. Everyone likes to shop, right? Inspire new cyclist 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. Convenience helps too. Look for a shop that offers online and store front shopping to aid in your cyclist needs. Fortunately, Peak Cycles offers both!
Inspire with bike education programs. Having the right bike setup, cycling accessories and gear makes all the difference. Consider offering a bike safety class for new riders or participate in a bike maintenance class. 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. Our post, Bike Inspections: A Guide for Injury Free, Enjoyable Spring Cycling, offers bike inspection tips and bike accessories you need to maintain your bike.
Inspire 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. Locals and vacationers alike welcome the challenge of pushing the limits while taking in breathtaking views that only Colorado has to offer. Inspire new riders by checking out a few of 20 Colorado Front Range Bucket List Rides or invite them to spectate at one of the MTB races in Colorado.
Inspire with bike events! Check out one of the events held in your area. The League of American Bicyclist has countless events scheduled. Keep in mind, in 2015, Bike to Work Week will be May 11-15, with Bike to Work Day on May 15. To keep the momentum going, join our shop ride on Wednesday evenings and like our Peak Cycles Race Team Facebook page to keep informed of other rides and events.
Have fun, be active! Enjoy and inspire others to enjoy the outdoors and experience the joy of cycling this National Bike Month!
Leave a Comment » | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: 20 Colorado Front Range Bucket List Rides, bike commuting, bike maintenance, bike parts, Bike to Work Month, Bike to Work Week, bike tools, cycling accessories, cycling apparel, National Bike Month, road bike | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
March 12, 2015
BikeParts.com Gearing Up for 2015 Cycling Season
March 20th at 4:45 PM MDT marks the beginning of spring. While we have a few days to go and the warmer temps may not quite be here yet, cyclist are getting ready for the 2015 season.
You can feel it – enthusiasm is high! But, enthusiastic recreational riders and competitive athletes can make early season training errors. Namely, taking on too much physical activity too quickly. Going too fast, exercising for too long, or simply doing too much of one type of physical activity can strain your muscles and lead to an overuse injury. Understanding how to pace yourself while getting fit is crucial.
Yet, having the right bike setup, cycling accessories and gear makes all the difference too. Especially so if you have taken it easier over the winter months. Transitioning to more time in the saddle and longer rides on the bike can be either a pleasurable experience or a painful one! Here’s your guide to getting your bike and training in order for spring cycling.
Bike Inspections:
Does your bike have cobwebs on it from non use during the winter months? Now’s the time to dust it off, put some air in those tires and do a thorough bike inspection. It seems simple enough but there are some critical areas to pay attention.
What do you look for? 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. Make sure all is well before embarking on longer rides which could lead to lasting discomfort.
How important are brakes? Obviously, a lot! When you don’t have them, or they aren’t working properly, then you know the importance of well maintained brakes for your road or mountain bike. Sure, brakes help stop your bike but they also aid in redirecting the bike, navigating technical terrain, cornering, and overall balance. As the cycling season starts up, bike maintenance is essential. We’re happy to help you at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop so bring your bike in for a spring tune up, or you can do bike maintenance at home. Demonstrated by our staff, at Peak Cycles Bike Shop, using the Avid Professional Bleed Kit are step by step instructions on how to bleed your mountain bike brakes for strong and reliable stopping power: Our Tips on Bleeding Brakes.
Another important component to spring riding is checking out your wheels. Unquestionably, wheels matter! They impact ride quality, ease of pedaling, reliability, and functionality. Spring is a great time to upgrade bicycle components. The question is, once you’ve decided it’s time for a wheel upgrade, how do you know how to select the best ones? Check our our video, Wheelset Buyer Guide: What You Need to Know.
As for mountain bike riders, you may be thinking about going tubeless. For anyone who wants higher performance and less flats but doesn’t mind a little extra installation time and maintenance, going tubeless is the best choice. The trick is having the right set up and knowing which bike parts or products to use. Again, stop by the shop to ask any questions or watch our video for help. GoingTubeless? How to use Stans NoTubes by BikeParts.com
Training and Racing:
Now that you have your bike dialed in, the next part of the equation is training. Do you have your 2015 goals in mind? Aside from the traditional goals to ride more, to lose weight, and to explore new rides, consider being a little more ambitious! Stretch yourself to reach new heights! Maybe create your own Spring training camp with friends or challenge yourself to 20 Colorado Front Range Bucket List Rides.
If you are a competitive cyclist, determine if you are race ready. The post, 5 Steps to Being Race Ready, reinforces the need for mental and physical preparation, as well as nutrition and bike parts checks, but part of racing is using your energy effectively – on and off the bike. Preparing mentally, physically, and being bike ready will ensure a successful start to the season. Our post, 5 Race Day Strategies for Spring Races in Colorado walks you step by step through the process of race preparation.
Nutrition:
As you approach your first race or long ride of the season, you may want to read the post, A Guide to Race Day Nutrition. While riding, many cyclist have different preferences as to how they prefer to get their fuel – whether that is in nutrition bars, gels, and liquids. However, oftentimes, a course may dictate other options. As in, for mountain bike riders, a technical course may present obstacles in taking solid food while riding versus taking fluids. Our post, Solving the Bike Nutrition Mystery and Training Peak’s post, Strategies For Optimum Recovery offer great suggestions to getting you on track for the nutritional demands of training and racing.
With a little preparation and planning, your pre season bike maintenance and training can pave the way for a long, healthy, and enjoyable 2015 cycling season.
Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to pick up the bike parts you need to launch your best cycling season ever!
1 Comment | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, Videos | Tagged: Avid brakes, bike maintenance, bike parts, bleeding brakes, cycling accessories, handlebars, race day nutrition, saddle, spring cycling season, Spring Training Camp, tubeless | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
December 26, 2013
Joshua Murdock climbing Old Three Mile Highway in Linnville, North Carolina.
While the year may not be quite over, many are already planning their 2014 race and cycling season. Sure, it’s fun to have lofty new goals, new ambitions, and new venues to fuel your cycling passions through the winter months and holiday season, but not pausing to reflect on what has recently come to pass during the previous season is missing a valuable opportunity to make personal gains that only you can make. Personal reflection offers insights to truly optimize your training and racing regimen.
Before setting your sights on new goals for 2014, it’s important to evaluate the previous season with an objective, yet critical eye. The post, Athlete-Coach Season Review, poses 10 questions to review your past season’s performance:
- What was the highlight of your season (for example, best race or greatest accomplishment)?Why?
- What was your greatest disappointment? Why?
- Review your top three goals for this season. Do you feel these were achieved?
- What did you do in training this season that you feel made you faster?
- What did you do in training this season that you feel was not productive?
- If you could change your training, mental preparation, or race tactics/strategy this past season, what would you do differently?
- Was there anything missing in your training this season?
- Do you feel that you trained enough and worked hard enough in training this season?
- Do you feel that you had adequate rest during training and before races?
- Do you have any extra comments and insights on this season?
With these personal insights in mind, you are better equipped to plan and execute a rewarding and successful 2014 cycling season. Take the lessons and insights from these questions to make SMART goals for 2014. 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 lose weight, and to explore new rides, consider taking on some different resolutions. Explore how these suggestions can add to your training or mental preparation for the upcoming season.
Set a personal goal for the miles you want to ride in 2014. 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 2014 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 2014?
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 2014 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!
6 Comments | Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | Tagged: 2014 cycling season, Athlete-Coach Season Review, bike commuting, bike components, bike maintenance, bike parts, computer, goal setting, heart rate monitor, road bike, SMART goals | Permalink
Posted by staffwriter8
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