Cash In on the 2013 Bike Sale Season

October 3, 2013
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Specialized Epic Expert- Carbon, 2013 Size Medium. Sale price $4,500!

When does bike sale season start?

NOW!

It’s that time of the year when bikes, cycling apparel, bike parts, cycling gear all go on sale across the country.  If you think redlining off the line at a race gets your heart rate going, you better think again.  We’ve got some crazy, hot mountain bike sales going on at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop – a surefire way to get your adrenaline pumping.

Deal #1 – We are selling our demo bikes!  There are some great deals to be had on Stumpjumpers, Cambers, Epics, and so many more. Stop by to take one out for a test ride now while the weather is still good and the trails are snow free!

Deal #2 – The HOT deal
This could be your new racing machine. Specialized Epic Expert- Carbon, 2013 Size Medium.  It is priced at $4,500 a whopping discount off the regular price of $6000!  We also have the exact same bike as a demo for $4200.  Stop by and test it before it’s gone!

What if you aren’t in the market for a new bike?  Guess what?  Our daily deals offer ongoing specials for your to cash in on.  Specials range from deals on bike parts, tires, shoes, pedals, lights, and all kinds of cycling accessories.  To cash in on these deals, follow us on Twitter  or like us on Facebook.

Bonus deal – On sale now! While supplies last!! Garmin Forerunner 910XT  Get ’em while they’re hot!

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Demo Bikes On Sale Now! Ride One Today!


BikePart.com’s Guide to Colorado Fall Cycling

September 26, 2013

As the seasons change, the Colorado mountain colors explode into a vibrant mix of autumn hues.  What better way to enjoy the brisk temperatures and vibrant colors of the leaves turning than from the view of mountain bike or road bike? The added bonus is maintaining fitness through the fall and even building it well into the winter months.

In our recent BikeParts.com post, Cross Racing in Colorado 2013  we suggest cyclocross as a means for staying active yet enjoying the fall cycling season.  In fact, across the Front Range and the entire state of Colorado, there are a variety of cyclocross races to test your fitness and take your cycling to another level.  You might be wondering what bike parts you might need for this particular style of racing.  Due to the nature of these events, you can show up on practically any bike (cyclocross, mountain bike, hybrid, road bike).  Yet, because of the variety of terrain, obstacles, weather conditions and short course and race duration, you can expect to replace cycling accessories and bike parts on a more frequent basis.

Another option for enjoying the fall leaves and gaining fitness is bike commuting.  While it is not as strenuous as cyclocross racing, it is a chance to enjoy cooler temperatures, view the changing colors of the leaves, and reinvigorate your spirits with the freedom riding a bike inspires.  Because of the recent flooding in Colorado, there’s a few things to keep in mind for your commute:
A good route.  Make sure your route is open! Learn how to pick a route you like. Google maps for cycling is a good option.

  • Lights. Days are getting shorter.  Have a set of small, modern LED lights on hand in case you get stuck at the office.
  • A good helmet.  Just because bike commuting isn’t as strenuous doesn’t mean you don’t need to be safe.  Wear a bike helmet.
  • A repair kit.  It’s good to carry a small multi-tool, a patch kit, a small pump, and a spare tube for those inevitable roadside repairs.
  • A lock. Invest in a quality lock and use it wisely.
  • A way to carry things. This could be as simple as a messenger bag or as elaborate as a set of touring panniers.

Whether you are enjoying the vibrant mix of autumn hues from a scenic country road, a bike path, or a cyclocross race course, fall bike rides in Colorado are the best way to get up close and personal with the season’s colors  while filling up their lungs with crisp Colorado air.


Cross Racing in Colorado 2013

September 12, 2013

While the cross country mountain bike  and road bike race seasons may be winding down, the cyclocross race season is heating up.  And, it’s not just heating up in Colorado but across the nation.

According to USA Cycling, cyclocross is the fastest growing field in cycling.  Why?  For starters, it’s fun!  It is accessible with a ton of races, and it is by far, the ultimate specter sport.

Across the Front Range and the entire state of Colorado, there are a variety of cyclocross races to test your fitness and take your cycling to another level.  You might be wondering what bike parts you might need for this particular style of racing.  Due to the nature of these events, you can show up on practically any bike (cyclocross, mountain bike, hybrid, road bike).  Yet, because of the variety of terrain, obstacles, weather conditions and short course and race duration, you can expect to replace cycling accessories and bike parts on a more frequent basis.  No worries!  We’ve got you covered! A little planning goes a long way. First, set your goals on the races you’d like to do.

In our own backyard of Golden, Colorado, we have the Back to Basics Cyclocross Series.  Weekly practices on Wednesdays, September12 – October 17, take place at the Lookout Mountain Youth Center and cost $15 each, or $65 for the six-race series. Choose to enter one of four loosely defined categories based on your gender, how hard you want to race, and whether you’re planning to ride a singlespeed or not.

In other areas of Colorado, there are other cyclocross races to plan:

  • Boulder Cyclocross Series – September 16, 22, October 20, November 17, December 8
  • Frisco Cross September 29 • Fricso
  • Monarch High Cyclocross October 7 • Louisville
  • The New Belgium CUP October 13-14 • Fort Collins
  • Boulder Cup October 28 • Boulder
  • Cross of the North December 15-16 • Loveland
  • Colorado Cross Cup Challenge presented by BRAC.

So what’s stopping you?   Plan your cyclocross season now, order your bike parts at bikeparts.com and grab your cow bell!  See you at the races!


Rising Stars: Peak Cycles Gravity Team

September 5, 2013

In its first year, Peak Cycles gravity race team took 2nd overall in the Winter Park Trestle Gravity Series!  We’re super proud of our racers as they finished ahead of many long-established teams!

Peak Cycles Gravity Team

What make them so successful? Of course, their awesome handling skills and great talent.  But, we also have to tip our hat to the great mtb bikes and bike parts that help them race their best.  You can spot our racers sporting the best helmets to keep those noggin’s safe.

on course sarah

And of course, there’s those super fast yet grippy tires and safe pedals needed for downhill action

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Finally, our racers are stylin’ in our Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop Jerseys

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Way to finish the season!  Congrats to our Gravity Race Team!


Spotted: Peak Cycles on the Podium!

August 29, 2013

Guess who is rocking the coolest bikes, the best bike parts, and crushing it in Colorado’s toughest mountain bike races?
You guessed it – Peak Cycles Racers!

We’re super proud of team riders Joshua Murdock and Weston Burcar who finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in the overall Epic Singletrack Series at Winter Park!  The Winter Park Epic Singletrack Series is a 6 series race with varying terrain, distances, and technical challenges.  Navigating those challenging races takes skills, talent, and of course, good ‘ole reliable bike parts.

Congrats to all of our racers!
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At BikeParts.com, we do all we can to support our competitive and non completive athletes.  And while our racers can tell you, racing takes its toll on themselves as athletes, but also on their bikes.  As we’re nearing the end of the XC and endurance mtb racing season, many are shifting their focus to the cyclocross season and to getting in as many good, long rides before we start seeing much cooler temps.

Good reminders for any race or ride includes starting your ride with a clean and lubricated chain, well lubed derailleurs, brake pads that are in good shape and tires have the appropriate air pressure.  Stop by the Peak Cycles BIcycle shop to pick up any road parts or mtb parts you may need.  Don’t forget to high five our racers!


FAQ about the US ProCycling Challenge

August 22, 2013

USA Pro ChallengeThe 3rd Annual US Pro Cycling Challenge is well underway in Colorado. Being that Peak Cycles in Golden, Colorado participated in the first two years of the race, we’ve had a chance to field many of the questions asked by fans and sports enthusiast.  In fact, just the other day, our friends, Team Jelly Belly were in the shop!

Pro rider’s bikes are a hot conversation topic.  Many are curious as to what the pro’s are riding and what they can do to their own bikes to gain the advantages that the pro riders seem to have.  Following are few favorite questions:

How much does a pro’s bike weigh?  Typically, a road bicycle that the USA Pro Cycling Challenge participants race on will weigh around 15 pounds. You might be wondering, “What does a 15 pound bike feel like?”  Light!  See for yourself.  We have a variety of road bikes and mountain bikes in the shop to try out for feel.  You’d be surprised what a difference a lighter bike makes in climbing.

What makes the bikes so light?  The bike frames in and of themselves are made of lightweight materials but having light weight bike parts and bike accessories keeps the bike light in addition to the light weight frame.  For our customers, it’s easy to swap out older bike components with newer, lighter bike parts.  Granted, it’s not the same as riding a pro riders bike, but every reduction in bike weight means you have the opportunity to go faster.

Where have the professional riders raced in Golden, Colorado and can I ride there?  The last two years of the US Pro Cycling Challenge had racers ride through downtown Golden and up through Lookout Mountain.  This year, if you are visiting Stage 6 Loveland – Fort Collins or heading over to Stage 7 Denver, stop by Peak Cycles bike shop and we’ll be happy to tell you the route.

We’re loving the good cycling vibe that the US Pro Cycling Challenge brings to our state.  Good luck to all racing the ProCycling Challenge!


We’re Not Done Yet! Colorado Races and Tours on Tap for August

August 15, 2013

Course strategies, break aways, riding in a small group or a large peloton – these are the thoughts and questions of cyclist wondering how to win at bicycle racing.  With only about a month and half left of the Colorado cycling racing and touring season, many are filling up their calendars with the last big events of the season hoping to capitalize on the fitness gains made during the season.   The Colorado races and tours on tap for August include:248096_459813457429376_203222675_n

08/17/2013

  • 24 Hours in the Sage
  • Steamboat Stinger
  • TOUR de CURE Colorado

08/31/2013

  • Big Mountain Enduro – Durango
  • Grand Junction Off-Road
  • Steamboat Stage Race
  • Tour de Fat – Fort Collins

The best way to approach any of these rides is to come prepared: mentally, physically, and have fully inspected your bike parts.  Functioning brakes are essential on the long, fast descents.  Proper gearing can make or break your chance of making a climb.  And, having the right bike toolscycling accessories, and extra bike parts on hand make a difference between a stellar ride and a bail out.

Also, if you are looking to finish your season super strong, consider a bike fit.  Leg strength, endurance, and fitness are at the heart of cycling speed, but without a proper bike fit, you are sabotaging your training efforts.  The 2013 season is (almost) nearing the end.  Let’s finish strong! Finish fast!


4 Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race Strategies

August 8, 2013

What is all the Leadville hype about?  For starters, the start and finish of the race are in the heart of Leadville, Colorado at 10,200’. More than 90 percent of the race is on dirt or double track roads featuring steep climbs and serious descents. There is a seven-mile climb to the 50-mile turnaround at 12,600′ and an approximate 14,000’ elevation gain. Whew!  That’s exhausting just thinking about it!

Not only is the race tough, but it’s gained national attention due to Colorado cyclist, Dave Wiens winning the event six years in a row. Levi Leipheimer won in 2010 and Specialized racer, Rebecca Rusch, has finished first in the last four races — 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.  For non professional athletes, what are successful race strategies to help conquer this demon of a race?

1.  Plan Right!  Sure, getting your bike parts  in order, lubing your chain, checking your tires are all good to do to prepare before the race.  But, what happens out on the course?  Crazy stuff can happen out there!  Be sure to carry an extra tube or C02  with you, have extras in your drop bag along with some tires , bike nutrition, and extra clothing.  Lube is good to carry on hand too if the course is dry.  Not sure if a certain bike part will hold up?  Have an extra one handy with some bike tools  in your drop bag to keep you in the race.

2.  Fuel Right! Proper nutrition leading into a race is critical.  Yet, staying properly hydrated and taking in appropriate levels of protein and carbs during your race will not only help keep your energy up, but it will help keep your mind fresh and alert for those technical sections.  Consider stocking up with bars, gels, and an assortment of nutrition requirements to have in your jersey and in your drop bags.  Also, consider how you are getting your fluids: bottles or hydration pack?  It’s important to plan your water intake between aid stations so if you think it will be a while between them, opt for a hydration pack.

3.  Pace Yourself! While the nerves are high and the muscles and energy are fresh, it’s easy at the start of the race to get after it and go out too hard and too fast.  Keep in mind, the more you spike your heart rate at the beginning of the race, the less you have available to pull from at the end of the race.  The trick to finishing this race is to ride a steady ride keeping your heart rate in check and knowing when to back off.  Use your cycling computer to keep yourself in check.

4.  Get Your Mental Game On!  Check in with your mental attitude, preparation, and willingness to “get after it.”  The level of digging deep and mental suffering for this race exceeds that of training rides or even shorter (60 miles or so) races.  Be prepared with mantras or mini goals to keep yourself going with the going gets tough.

There you have it!  Success strategies to get you to the finish of the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike race.  Good luck to all racers at the Leadville 100 this weekend!


Team Jelly Belly at Peak Cycles

August 1, 2013
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Team Jelly Belly at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop

We had some pretty fast visitors to the Peak Cycles Bicycle shop the other day. None other than Team Jelly Belly!  Pro rider Freddie Rodriguez got to see one of his old kits hanging from the shop ceiling!  And better yet, our shop mechanics got a chance to work on Freddie Rodriguez’s Stars and Stripes bike!

Star appearances don’t happen every day at Peak Cycles, but many of our customers can tell you, we at Peak Cycles, offer star bike products and stellar service.

What makes us so special?  For starters, local residents can order any product online at bikeparts.com and pick up the bike part the next day avoiding shipping fees.  We carry every item you could possibly want – from mountain bike parts, road bike parts, to cycling accessories and nutrition.  And yes, in the spirit of Team Jelly Belly visiting the shop, of course we carry jelly belly nutrition products.  More importantly, it’s our bike maintenance and bike fit services that keep our clients pedaling.

Whether you are looking to get a new road bike, repair your current one, or just get the 411 on the local, Front Range riding scene, we’re here to help. Checking out the pro rider jerseys in our shop isn’t so bad either!

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Freddie Rodriguez’s Stars and Stripes bike


Peak Cycles Spotted! Mountain Bike Nationals and UCI BMC World Championships

July 25, 2013
Dillon Turner - riding fast at UCI BMC World Championships in New Zealand!

Dillon Turner – riding fast at UCI BMC World Championships in New Zealand!

Colorado bike races are more popular than ever. The physical challenge of Colorado’s altitude combined with amazing alpine views pair for a cycler’s dream.

What makes it even better?  Cool bikes, new bike parts, and team riders crushing it in local, national, and international mountain bike races.

We’re super proud of our team racers at bikeparts.com.

  • Congrats to PeakCycles BMX Rider Dillon Turner – riding fast at UCI BMC World Championships in New Zealand!
  • High fives to Joshua Murdock and Taylor Shull for impressive showings at the Mountain Bike Nationals in Bear Creek, Pennsylvania!
  • Stellar finish for Stacy Moller at the Leadville Silver Rush 50!

Congrats to all of our racers!  At BikeParts.com, we do all we can to support our competitive and non completive athletes.  And while our racers can tell you, racing takes its toll on themselves as athletes, but also on their bikes. The season is in full swing and most venturing into the shop want to know how to ride faster, ride easier, and what they need to do either get their bike parts in order or keep them well maintained.

What can we learn from our podium finishers?  For starters, they start their races with a clean and lubricated chain.  They make sure to lubricate the moving parts of brakes and derailleurs. Their brake pads are in good shape and tires have the appropriate air pressure.  And, most importantly, after they race, they inspect their bike and replace damaged bike parts.

Get in to the shop to hear about our racers most recent adventures and success stories.  Let’s finish this season strong!


Enchanted Forest – A BikeParts.com Favorite – See Why

July 11, 2013

What is every mountain bike riders dream?

Endless trails, a variety of terrain, scenic views of wildlife and bike parts that make a ride seem effortless.

Golden’s Apex Park – Enchanted Forest mountain bike ride contains 11+ miles of trails of stellar single track and a delightful surprise with the Enchanted Forest trail.  True to its name, the Enchanted Forest provides lush tree cover and is considered a favorite among local riders.  Watch the video to see why!


Peak Cycles Crushing Colorado Mountain Bike Races

June 27, 2013

These are beautiful days on our Colorado mountain bike trails.  What makes them even better?  Cool bikes, new bike parts, and team riders crushing it on the Front Rage trails and mountain bike races.   Check out some of team riders styling with our latest mtb parts.

Team Rider Josh Murdock on the podium after crushing it on his Specialized Stumpjumper.

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Team rider Sam Cory has been crushing it lately on his Specialized Demo 8!

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Team rider Taylor Schmidt at Apex Park in Golden, Colorado

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Team riders at the Rocky Mountain Endurance Series Ridgeline Rampage

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What’s next on tap for the Peak Cycles race team?  Lots! Visit us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to find out or look for our bike parts.com team tent at upcoming races!

  • Winter Park Epic Singletrack Series
  • Keystone enduro
  • Rocky Mountain Endurance Series
  • Snake River Mountain Bike Race & Festival
  • Guanella Pass Hill Climb
  • Leadville Silver Rush 50 MTB Race
  • Breckenridge 100

20 Colorado Front Range Bucket List Rides

June 20, 2013

286131_159784717432253_804849_oColorado 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.

The best way to approach any of these rides is to come prepared: mentally, physically, and have fully inspected your bike parts.  Functioning brakes are essential on the long, fast descents.  Proper gearing can make or break your chance of making a climb.  And, having the right bike tools, cycling accessories, and extra bike parts  on hand make a difference between a stellar ride and a bail out.

With so many to choose from, why not do them all this summer!  Stop by the Peak Cycles Bike Shop to get the insiders scoop on any of our favorite 20 Colorado Front Range road rides.

  1. Historic Lariat Loop
  2. Deer Creek Canyon
  3. Bergen Park or Idaho Springs to Guanella Pass
  4. Red Rocks Park Loop
  5. Bergen Park or Idaho Springs to St. Mary’s Glacier (Alice)
  6. Idaho Springs to Loveland Pass
  7. Golden to Cold Springs Campground via Golden Gate Canyon
  8. Bergen Park to Echo Lake
  9. Idaho Springs to Juniper Pass
  10. Manitou Springs to Pike Peak Summit Parking Lot (Pikes Peak Hill Climb)
  11. Morgul-Bismark Route
  12. Jamestown Canyon Ride
  13. Flagstaff Hill Climb
  14. NCAR Hill Climb
  15. Lookout Mountain Hill Climb
  16. Sunshine Hill Climb
  17. Magnolia Hill Climb
  18. Mt. Evans Hill Climb
  19. Pikes Peak
  20. Trail Ridge Road

Quiz: Name that Golden Mountain Bike Trail

June 13, 2013

As many Golden locals well know,  mountain bike  trails along the Colorado Front Range take on a different view as the seasons unfold here in Colorado.  While many trail riders will tell you, riding in the opposite direction on a trail can make the trail look entirely different.  Well, our trails take on a different form whether that be during the Summer, Fall, Spring, and even Winter – when rideable.

Now that we are in full swing summer riding, local riders and tourist alike are scoring new bike parts, replacing dated cycling apparel, and headed out to the trails.  Can you name these Golden mountain bike trails?

Trail A:

trail a

Trail B:

trail b

Trail C:

Trail D:

Want to know the answers?  Follow us on Twitter or stop by the Peak Cycles Bike Shop to pick up some much needed bike parts and also to see if you guessed right!


What Does a Bike Fit LOOK Like?

June 6, 2013

Bike fits – we’ve heard about them, talked about them, but somehow, most of us don’t get one.  And why not?  They say the quickest way to get faster on the bike is with a bike fit.  Sure, fit impacts comfort but it also impacts technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries and how you ride. Meaning it directly affects how much power you can efficiently deliver to the pedals.

So why don’t more cyclist get a bike fit?  For some, they wonder why it cost so much? Or, what is included in the service?  How long does it take?  And, many wonder when is the best time to get a fit?  More often than not, the biggest reason cyclist opt out of getting a bike fit is because they falsely believe bike fits are for professional riders/ racers.

Bike fits aren’t just for professional riders – they are for anyone who rides whether they are a beginner or advanced rider.  So, why should you schedule a bike fit?  You should get one because you want to get the most out of your experience on the bike.

Here at Peak Cycles Bike Shop, we have a private, dedicated room designated for bike fits.  We offer Specialize’s branded fit system, Body Geometry, accompanied by the newest technologies to give you a comfortable and professional bike fit experience.  Not only can we help you with your fit, but we carry all the bike parts  you may require to get your bike in the very best setup for your riding needs.  Give us a call (303) 216-1616 or stop by the shop in Golden to schedule your bike fit.

In the meantime, enjoy a sneak peak of what you can expect in your upcoming bike fit.


You Know You Want It! Here’s How to Buy a New Bike

May 30, 2013

IMG_3455For many people, buying a new bike is a more difficult decision than buying a new car.  Why?  Because today, manufacturers offer more models than ever in a wider variety of price points. And there are an exceptional array of bike parts, wheels, brakes and shifting systems that operate like never before.  Having a variety of choices is a wonderful thing but at BikeParts.com, we’re here to help you navigate the confusion to help you get the bike you want – and the bike you will ride.

First off, build your bike profile.  Decide what type of riding you will be doing, how often, and the types of terrain you plan to ride. Because there are so many bike parts to build a new mountain bike or road bike, it’s important to get clear on what you are looking to do.  Here are some questions you need to get you started:

  • What type of bicycle do I want?  Will I be mountain biking, road cycling, or is comfort my biggest factor in a bike?
  • Am I interested in casual riding? Entry level competitive cycling? Full on racing?
  • How many miles might I log per week, or year?
  • What type of tires should my bike have?
  • What color bike do I want?
  • What size bike do I need?  The size of the bicycle is critical for comfortable riding.  It is helpful if the bike shop has a fit service.  Fortunately, at Peak Cycles, we do! Learn more here.
  • Do I want a bike with gears? If so, How many?
  • Do I prefer squishy handlebar pads, hard ones, or ones with tassels?
  • What kind of seat do I want?
  • Cycling accessories – what matters to me most: high-tech gadgets or are simpler designs?
  • What kind of handle bars do I want? Straight or curved?
  • Am I interested in the highest quality bike parts?  Or, can I get by with industry standard bicycle accessories?
  • How much am I willing to spend on a bike?

Finally, buy what you like. Feel good about what you’re buying, how it looks, how it rides.  Because of our varied mountain bike trials in Golden, Colorado and road ride circuits along the Front Range, we are asked for our advice on other bike accessories cyclist may need or want. Of course, buy a helmet first, and wear it. There are many other products which can enhance the riding experience as in hydration packs, eye protection, cycling apparel as well as numerous books and magazines available to help you educate yourself about the nuances of cycling.  We’re here to help you with all of it.

You couldn’t pick a better time to shop for a new bike. There are so many attractive choices today. Visit us at Peak Cycles in Golden or online at bikeparts.com and we can help with your decision making and offer advice you need to get you rolling on your new bike just in time for summer riding


Video View of North Table Mountain, South Table Mountain, and Green Mountain

May 23, 2013

Spring is finally here!  The sun is shining, the temperatures are warmer, and the trails are dry!  The Peak Cycle Bicycle Shop is buzzing with activity. Folks are stopping by to select new jerseys, replace old bike parts and schedule bike maintenance.  Now is the time to get your ride ready!

What’s stopping you from getting out there on your mountain bike and riding?  If our great weather isn’t enough inspiration to get you out pedaling, then check out our video featuring a sneak peak of North Table Mountain, South Table Mountain, and Green Mountain.  Fun trails for families, recreational riders, and competitive cyclist alike.

We’re centrally located to all of these trails so remember to stop by the shop to pick up any last minute necessities like bike nutrition (bars, gels, drinks), sunscreen, lube, big air, or tubes.  Or, swing by to say hi.  Happy Trails!  


Boom! The 2013 Peak Cycles Race Season if Off!

May 16, 2013

ridgeline BESTWhat does the Ridgeline Rampage, Battle of the Bear, Eagle 40, and 12 Hours of Mesa Verde all have in common?  Sure, they are all mountain bike races but they are also all races in which the Peak Cycles Race Team have all raced AND celebrated their success on the podium!

Congrats to all of our racers!  At BikeParts.com, we do all we can to support our competitive and non completive athletes.  And while our racers can tell you, racing takes its toll on themselves as athletes, but also on their bikes.  The season is in full swing and most venturing into the shop want to know how to ride faster, ride easier, and what they need to do either get their bike parts in order or keep them well maintained.

So, what can we learn from our podium finishers that the rest of us can use to better our cycling season?  For starters, they start their races with a clean and lubricated chain.  They make sure to lubricate the moving parts of brakes and derailleurs. Their brake pads are in good shape and tires have the appropriate air pressure.  And, most importantly, after they race, they inspect their bike and replace damaged bike parts.

What other things can we learn from our top racers?  Find out for yourself!  Stop by the Peak Cycles Bike Shop for the shop ride in Golden, Colorado, follow us on Twitter, or catch up on Colorado racing in our recent blog posts.

What’s next?  Look for Taylor J Schmidt, Weston Burcar, Dan Dwyer and Joshua Murdock at this weekend’s RME Indian Creek race.  Cheer them on, or better yet, get out there and race!


The Quickest Way To Get Faster? Get a Bike Fit!

May 9, 2013

Leg strength, endurance, and fitness are at the heart of cycling speed, but without a proper bike fit, you are sabotaging your training efforts.  Whether you’re just starting to ride or you’ve been cycling for a long time, consider the benefits of a professional bike fit.  At Bikeparts.com, we know how important a bike fit is.  It is so important that we recently devoted an entire room in our Golden, Colorado Peak Cycles Bike shop just for bike fitting.  But in case you are unaware, fit impacts comfort but also technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries.  Your body’s position on the bike affects how you ride. It affects how much power you can efficiently deliver to the pedals. It affects how comfortable you are on the bike.

In a sport based on such a highly repetitive action, like pedaling, the first line of defense against injury is a proper bike fit.  So what is a proper bike fit?  It doesn’t simply consist of setting a saddle height and bar reach. In today’s market, bike brands are designing some top-end rides for us to enjoy, but with these bikes come different geometries.  Many cyclist replacing bikes or bike parts inquire about the following bike components and their role in an overall bike fit:

  • Crank Length
  • Saddle Tilt
  • Saddle Height
  • The Fore-Aft Saddle Position
  • Knee over the pedal axle
  • Handlebar Position
  • Stock frame sizing
  • Cleat positioning

Do you know how these bike components fit in YOUR bike fit?  That would be good to know. In our full comprehensive bicycle fits by George Mullen, every cyclist  benefits from a good bike fit.  

  • Beginners who aren’t familiar with how a bike should fit and feel.
  • Current riders who can’t get comfortable on their current setup or have nagging injuries
  • Competitive cyclists who are looking for marginal gains. There’s no doubt that more power can result from tweaking your bike position.  It is well understood that a good aero fit is the most cost-effective way to speed up your bike split.

With eleven years of fitting experience and over over two-thousand fits, George is has the experience, the tools and the advanced training to handle any fit scenario. Stop by the Peak Cycles bike fitting studio to schedule a fit.  Also, order any bike parts you need from a recent fit online at bikeparts.com.  We offer 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!


Pedal Power for Good: Kicking off National Bike Month in May at Peak Cycles

April 25, 2013

April showers bring May flowers and for us in Golden, Colorado – a long overdue start to the bike riding season!  May is recognized as National Bike Month and as a local bike shop and an online bike parts store serving the nation,  we couldn’t be happier!  Bike commuting, road riding, and mountain bike riding are all part of living a healthy lifestyle but they also serve as alternative transportation, helping the environment, as well as getting families, businesses, and communities involved.

As supporters of several bike race teams and local events, we encourage you to put your pedal power to good use this bike month.  Get committed and enroll your family, colleagues and others to get on a bike! Ride! Here’s how you can participate in National Bike Month with us at Peak Cycling.

For your bike: The bike season is a bit overdue due to the linger winter weather.  Now is the time to dust off that bike, look it over, and perform any bike maintenance to ensure comfortable and safe riding.

  • Get a tune up
  • Replace old bike parts with new ones
  • Replace worn out gear like helmets , shoes , gloves
  • Treat yourself to one of our jerseys – ride local and proud
  • Set a milage goal for the month of May- get a new computer

For your family and friends: Bike commuting has numerous benefits: it improves your health, saves you money on car maintenance and gas bills, and overall, lightens your mood and refreshes your outlook.

For your business: Create a bike commuting program for employees. Bike commuting increases worker productivity, reduces parking cost, reduces carbon emissions and bicycles can be produced and maintained locally by local bike shops (like us – Peak Cycles) contributing to local job opportunities as part of a sustainable economy.

For your community: Bike riding offers a certain connection to the open air and the surrounding trees. It’s amazing how usual surroundings look different when on a bike.  It can can be done by toddlers, teenagers, youngsters and adults as well. It can be used as personal time to reflect upon your day or a means to unite friends for regular rides.

  • Explore and discover your local community by bike
  • Commute by bike for work and play
  • Learn how to use Google maps and the City of Golden website for bike routes

What are you waiting for?  Pump up your tires, lube your chain, and put your pedal power to good use!  Ride ON!