Why Do You Ride? How Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop is Kicking off National Bike Month 

May 2, 2019

Why do you Ride? Do you even need a reason to get on your bicycle? Considering the freedom riding a bike gives you, the access to the outdoors, being in nature, or even getting from point A to point B in an eco-friendly fashion, who wouldn’t have a reason to ride?  

Fortunately, the cycling community in Golden, Colorado and those along the Front Range support our love of cycling.  Even more so, do does the League of American Bicyclist.  May is recognized as National Bike Month and we’ve got a ton of ways to kick it off in grand cycling fashion!

You’re Invited to Our Bike Safety Class: We’re all about riding safely. In fact, you can ride our blog post, Bike Safety Comes First for some initial suggestions on safe riding. More importantly, we invite you to join our May 23rd bike safety event! We are proud to host a bike safety prevention by The Cyclist Lawyer, Megan Hottman. You’ll want to swing by the shop on Thursday, May 23rd at 6 PM. We’re located at 1224 Washington Ave, Ste 145, Golden, Colorado Give us a call at (303) 216-1616 to let us know you’ll be joining us or RSVP on our Facebook Page.

Bike Commuting: As the weather is steadily improving, now is the time to get into a steady habit of riding your bike to work to run errands. Check out our posts Bike Commuting – Making it Work For You and Get Your Kids Bike Commuting – Here’s How! for suggestions on getting started and which are best bike parts and cycling accessories for a comfortable ride.  If you are questioning the benefits of bike commuting, check out the convincing and inspiration post, New Study Reveals Why Biking is a Healthy Form of Transportation. Chances are, you’ll commit to riding more often. 

Join our Shop Ride: Answering the question why do you ride? We love riding together in a social setting for our shop rides. Our rides are fun, we learn new skills, and we talk about bikes and all things cycling. You can enjoy Bike Month all summer long by joining us on Wednesday evenings at 6PM for our weekly shop ride. If you need more convincing, read this: 5 Great Reasons to Join Peak Cycles Shop Rides.

Business can celebrate National Bike Month too! For businesses looking to celebrate National Bike Month, there are resources for you as well.  You can create a bike-friendly shopping program to encourage employees to bike commute this month and through the year.  Many aspiring bike riding enthusiast appreciates a shop that offers quality bike parts and components along with solid advice on bike parts and cycling apparel. Convenience helps too.  Look for a shop that offers online and storefront shopping to aid in your cyclist needs.  Fortunately, Peak Cycles offers both!  You and your employees will be happy for your support!

So tell us, why do you ride? Is it your love of the bike? The exercise? Training and fitness? Could it be that riding a bike is just plain FUN! We love it all. Happy National Bike Month! 

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5 Great Reasons to Join Peak Cycles Shop Rides 

April 25, 2019

If you’re like most cyclists, then riding alone is the default when you first start riding. If you’re not competing or part of a club, then over time, you may long for others to ride and train with to increase fitness and explore new rides and trails.  

Riding with others can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of cycling. Yet, it can be a little intimidating if you haven’t done it before or it has been a while since you have ridden your bike in a group setting. But, it doesn’t have to be! At Peak Cycles, we head out every Wednesday evening for a fun ride. Here are some of the benefits as to why cyclist enjoy riding with us. 

  1. Build camaraderie. Riding alone can get lonely. Meet other riders and make new friends. 
  2. Learn new skills! Not sure how to clear a complicated obstacle? Unsure how to navigate a certain line? Build confidence in learning from and watching others.
  3. Ride proudly! Show off your new mountain bike or cycling gear! Or, ask others about why they have certain bike parts or cycling accessories. Discover the pros and cons of other rider’s choices and see what is best for you
  4. Up your skill level and get comfortable riding in a group environment. Conquer nervousness about riding with others. Learn how to ride safely and in your comfort zone while being part of the pack.
  5. Most of all, have fun! Riding with others is just plain fun! Laugh, cheer each other on, make jokes, suffer together! It’s all good! 

Join us on our weekly shop ride. Meet at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop at 1224 Washington Avenue in Golden, Colorado.  We leave right around 6PM. Rides are weather permitting. And the bonus – it’s a no drop ride.  What exactly does no drop mean? This means that no rider is left behind, and you can count on one of the riders in the group to be on the lookout for you and ensure that everyone stays together.  

If you aren’t sure about the weather or you have a question, call the shop at (303) 216-1616 and check out our Facebook page for details.  See you next Wednesday! 

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Crazy Awesome Sale on Bikes, Shoes, and Cycling Apparel

April 18, 2019

Springtime is the time to cash in on cycling sales. And guess what? We’ve got a great sale going on! It’s that time of year again when we have fantastic deals on bikes, cycling accessories, and cycling apparel. Check it out: 

Bikes –  Purchase a demo bike. Only 4 left! 

Shoes  – Save up to 50% off of last year’s shoes.

  • Brands include Specialized, Pearl Izumi, Louis Garneau, Giant, Five Ten, and BONT. We have shoes for both road and mountain bike riding, as well as for men and women. Many sizes, manufacturers, and styles to choose from so get in on the savings before the picking gets slim. 

Winter tops – Save up to 60% off of winter jackets. 

  • Brands include Louis Garneau, Craft, 02 Rainwear, Outdoor Research, Race Face and Specialized. Items vary from hooded, to insulated, waterproof and wind/water resistant. Again, we have many styles available for both men and women. Check them out now and cash in on some really great deals on cycling apparel. 

Shorts – Save big on men’s cycling shorts.

  • Sorry ladies, this sale is for the men, that is if you prefer to wear ladies only shorts. These shorts and men’s baggies are on sale. 
  • Brands include Specialized, Royal Racing, Race Face, and 100%. 

While you’re at it, you might as well make a full sweep on the savings. Cash in on our spring service specials. Choose which bike service special is best for you. 

What do you think about this crazy, awesome sale? Stop into Peak Cycles in Golden, Colorado to see what else you might find in the store. We have over 50 different types of bikes on sale and even more different types of bike parts, cycling accessories, and cycling apparel. See you soon! 

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5 Bike Worthy Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund 

April 11, 2019

Getting a big tax refund? Maybe not even a big one but just some extra cash? Don’t let it go to waste! Invest it! Invest it in yourself: your health, wellbeing, and peace of mind.  It’s not every day when you have a small or large windfall come your way where you can purchase guilt-free items. So why not make your tax refund count for something that will enrich your life and your health?  Following are 5 great ideas for your income tax refund that you won’t regret doing.

#1 Buy a new road or mountain bike. We’ve got Specialized, Liv, and Giant bikes in the shop. Check out the new bicycles we have online at BikeParts.com.  And if you need to upgrade your bike purchasing skills, check out our post What to Look for When Buying a Bike to guide you.

#2 Purchase a demo bike. We’ve got a few on hand and they are going fast:

#3 Take advantage of our spring service special. Get a safety or standard tune-up, a Drivetrain Degrease and Tune or even a comprehensive overhaul for your road or mountain bike.

#4 Make a date with our bike fitter, George Mullen. Use that extra cash to dial in your saddle, shoes, bike parts and frame geometry to your body and riding style.  We offer a professional Bicycle Fit Studio with either a 3 Dimensional Fit or Dynamic 3 Dimensional Fit (includes detailed Computrainer™ session). To set an appointment for a fit, please contact George Mullen at 303 522-1494 or by email at gjmmullen@yahoo.com.

#5 Get new gear! Whether you are in the market for jerseys, short, glove, shoes, hydration packs or even bike parts, we have got it all! in fact, have you seen our catalog of bike parts? It’s crazy! We have over 45,000 parts and 700+ manufacturers! This means we have all the road bike, MTB, cycling tools, and cycling accessories you could ever dream of.

Investing in your health and wellbeing is not only a smart way to use your tax refund dollars but a wise one! Be wise. Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop for your guilt-free purchases of bike parts and cycling gear. See you soon!

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Save Money This Spring with Peak Cycles Bicycle Sales and Service Specials 

April 4, 2019

Demo bikes for sale at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop | BikeParts.com

What are the best ways to save money on cycling accessories and bike parts? Sales of course! And we have a great demo bike sale going on and a service special for the month of April. Read on to learn how to save big! 

These demo bikes for sale are going fast! Check them out and get them while they last! 

If your bike has been in storage all winter, it’s time to get it rolling again.  How are the gears shifting? Are the brakes squeaking? Do you have any mystery shifting going on with your derailleurs. It could be your cables or the tubing. Or, might it be another problem? That’s why we are here to help!  To help make sure your bike is ready for spring riding, our bike mechanics standing by to help you with our spring service special offering. Estimates are always free and we guarantee our work. What’s even better is you can walk in to get your bike serviced or schedule a specific type of service.  Choose which bike service special is best for you. 

Now that you either have a new bike or your current one that is well serviced and ready to go, join us on our weekly shop ride! Every Wednesday (weather permitting) join our Peak Cycles MTB ride! This is a no-drop ride up either Chimney Gulch or North Table. Take a look at our Facebook or Instagram page for updates.  See you soon!

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Best Cycling Training Tools  to Improve Performance

March 28, 2019

If you’ve been looking to get faster on the bike, then most likely you have explored cycling training tools, as in power meters, heart rate monitors and the like. No doubt, today’s technology provides instant biofeedback and structure to workouts.  And over time, this aggregated training data offers visibility to your training program and progress. The ultimate goal of using training tools is to get faster, stronger, fitter, and optimize athletic performance.  Given that, which training tools are best for you? Read on to find out. 

Heart rate Training – 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.  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. If you do not have a trainer or coach to keep you disciplined during your workout, a heart rate monitor can be a great substitute. It can tell you when your exercise is falling below your ideal intensity so you can instantly improve your performance.  It can be a great biofeedback tool and also help you to monitor your fitness, prevent overtraining, and take your performance to the next level.

Power meters – Training with a power meter is one of the most effective ways to get results. The more power you can produce, the faster your bike will go. Unlike a heart rate monitor that is subjective, watts or power output is not. Watts are watts. Training with a power meter helps establish a baseline fitness and eliminates the guesswork out of measuring fitness gains.  The data provided also helps to get a better handle on overreaching and overtraining during training blocks.  There are different power meters available based on your fitness goals and budget. So be sure to stop by the shop to dial in which power meter is best for you. 

Bike Fit – While a bike fit isn’t necessarily a training tool, it is your first defense in injury prevention.  It’s also one of the quickest ways to get faster on the bike. Leg strength, endurance, and fitness are at the heart of cycling speed, but without a proper bike fit, you are sabotaging your training efforts.  As you know, bikes come in all sizes and shapes, and there are endless bike parts and cycling accessories that can be added or swapped to make a bike become a better fit for you. At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we believe that there is much more to fitting a cyclist to his/her bicycle than just the physical dimensions of a bike. Each cyclist has a different history, experience, comfort level, and goal on the bike; each of these variables is important to the bike-fit process.  Take advantage of our bike fit studio and schedule a bike fit to align your bike with your body posture and improve your cycling

Use power meters and heart rate monitors to guide you through you.  By monitoring your training efforts with specific data, you objectively know when you are pushing beyond your targeted indicators, 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 2019 cycling season goals.

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

March 21, 2019

Specialized Spring into Spring Sale at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop

Well, Hello Spring! 

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

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

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

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

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

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Sloppy Weather – Easy Tips to Show Your Bike Some TLC  

March 7, 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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Lacking Cycling Inspiration and Motivation? Try This! 

February 28, 2019

In between the New Year and the spring cycling season, there seems to be something like a Bermuda triangle affect taking place in terms of motivation, training, and sticking with goals.  They all seem to disappear. Even the best of intentions seem to dissolve into thin air.  

Granted, the weather doesn’t help. Cold days followed by warmer days and then again, snow or wet days.  Training outdoors proves to be inconsistent. Training indoors consistently, can be maddening. Add the frustrations up and it’s easy to see why those New Year goals may have fallen by the wayside.  

Yet, on the bright side, spring is right around the corner. And while there are some wet and sometimes snowy days ahead of us, now is the time to dig a deep and set those training goals in motion.  So when you are experiencing a lack of motivation to train, try some of these tips to get you going. 

One of the reasons training year round is to maintain a base level of fitness.  Also, training year round helps to reduce injuries.  In a sport based on such a highly repetitive action, like pedaling, the first line of defense against injury is a proper bike fit. The benefits of a professional bike fit will not only help improve your riding position, but it will also help motivate you to ride your bike and perfect the mechanics of your pedal position and body posture.  The results of a professional bike fit will leave you feeling more confident in your bike parts, bike set up, and inspire you to reach your potential – which translates into riding more.  And that is the objective! To ride more regularly and frequently during the pre-season. 

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

If those two options don’t get your motor running, then sit down and revisit your 2019 cycling goals.  What is it that you wanted to accomplish in 2019? Get back on track.  Check out our post, The Best Training Aids to Launch into Spring Cycling.  The post dives into the benefits of training with power meters.  Maybe to spark some motivation you need to invest in new cycling accessories like a power meter or heart rate monitor.  

Quite frankly, we’ve found one of the best motivators for riding is purchasing a new bike! Whether you choose a road bike, mountain bike, hybrid/ commuter bike, or even a fat bike, getting a new bike turbo charges motivation and inspires a sense of adventure. There is just nothing quite like the feeling of purchasing and riding a new bike! 

When all else fails, remember something is better than nothing. Meaning, some training is better than no training at all.  Give yourself a break for those days missed and shift your focus towards being consistent in your training.  Spring will be here sooner than you think!  

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Celebrate Fat Biking at the Staunton Fattie Frenzy: A Fat Bike Celebration

February 21, 2019

Fat bikes are awesome! Riding a fat bike gets you outside during the winter months, improves your cycling endurance, and well, puts a huge smile on your face! There’s no question that riding a fat bike ups your giggle factor! And that is why all of us a Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop are delighted to be part of the Staunton Fattie Frenzy! It’s this Sunday, February 24th at Staunton State Park.  

The Staunton Fattie Frenzy is a celebration of front range fat biking featuring a fast-paced and spectator-friendly circuit race. Racers can go solo or in teams of 2 or 4 on the 1.5-mile loop so gather your friends, plan your costumes (optional), and get ready for some fat fun. The race is 90 minutes plus one lap.  While fun is the name of the game, we are also offering prizes.  Our primary motivation for the Staunton Fattie Frenzy is twofold: 

1. We love fat biking and we want others to love it too! Because we know great trail conditions can make a good day into an awesome day, Big Ring Cycles and Peak Cycles have partnered with 285 Nordic and Staunton State Park to raise money for grooming equipment at Staunton. Join us in building a great location for fat bike riders for years to come, right here in the front range.

2. We believe in supporting and encouraging young cyclists in this great sport so we will also be raising funds for the High School Cycling League. In 2018, the High School League had 1383 riders building strong minds, bodies, and character one pedal stroke at a time. Join us in supporting the future of cycling!

Make plans for some fun! Register today to join in the fun this Sunday. Your registration fee includes: 

• Park entry fee

• Race timing and awards

• Cold brew coffee by High Brew

• Contests and general silliness

• Delicious lunch

• Beer and beverages

• Donation to 285 Nordic for trail grooming at Staunton State Park and to the High School Cycling League.

If we have snow, the trails will be groomed for fat bike use.  This is a fat bike race only. A minimum 3.8″ tire size is required for all racers. 

Visit us in Golden, Colorado for your bike parts and cycling accessories prior to the event.  Be sure to register for the Staunton Fattie Frenzy: A Fatbike Celebration.  See you this Sunday, February 24th at Staunton State Park at 8:30 AM! 

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10 Ways to Show Your Bike You Love it This Valentine’s Day 

February 14, 2019

Happy Valentine’s Day!  At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we’re big fans of Valentine’s day and not for all the traditional reasons.  

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate what you love.  And we love bikes! Road bikes, mountain bikes, cyclocross bikes, bike tools, cycling accessories and all different kinds of bike parts! We pretty much love them all!

Our passion for cycling is boundless! And while most people share their love for their devoted others with roses, chocolates and other goodies, we’re encouraging you to share your love and appreciation for all your bike does for you. Show some love to your bike this Valentine’s Day in these loving ways. 

  1. Get your bike a mate. As in, get a new bike! We have a huge selection of road bikes and mountain bikes. Take your pick! 
  2. Upgrade or replace older bike parts.  Some good items to have on hand include chains, cassettes, chainrings, brake pads, and cleats.
  3. Get your bike a new wheelset.
  4. Make your ride more comfortable and schedule a bike fit.
  5. Show your bike some TLC. Take advantage of our February tune-up special of $50.  Or, perform some bike maintenance yourself with our bike tools.
  6. Make your bike shine! Light it up! Purchase a new light system.
  7. Upgrade your training. Invest in a new heart rate monitor and power meter to take your fitness to a new level.  
  8. Swap out your saddle bag for a new one. While you’re at it, make sure you have the tire levers, tires, and air you need in case you get a flat.
  9. Consider donating unused or older bike parts to someone or an organization in need.  
  10. Pledge to support bike programs like People for Bikes or Bike Denver.  

Stop in and see us in Golden, Colorado or visit us online at BikeParts.com to get Valentine’s Day ideas for you and your bike.  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! Be generous with your love this Valentine’s day! Let your bike know you love it! Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us a Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop!

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The Hidden Benefits of Riding A Fat Bike

February 7, 2019

If you’re a winter cyclist, you know how challenging riding indoors can be. Instead of facing another indoor ride, you muster up your deep love for cycling to overcome your excuses and head out to ride in the cold, windy, and snowy winter weather. And while it’s not always easy to ride outside in winter, you enjoy the chill on your face, the wind whipping through your helmet holes, and the satisfaction of completing your training ride.  

Yet, winter cycling doesn’t have to be a tough experience. No doubt, having the right cycling apparel can make an otherwise grueling outdoor ride into a much more enjoyable experience – especially when you have a fat bike! 

While we’ve written about the joys of riding a fat bike, you may not know the hidden benefits of riding a fat bike.  

Although obvious, riding a fat bike actually gets you outside!  Wave goodbye to the trainer and the perils of riding indoors during the winter months and say hello to a fresh, new training experience that reconnects you with your passion for riding.  Riding a fat bike is fun!  And, while you are giggling and exploring the trails on your fat bike, your overall cycling endurance and stamina is improving.  

The simple fact that riding regularly and consistently is building your overall cycling endurance and agility too! One of the first things you’ll notice when riding a fat bike is how much you use your body english (the way you control your shoulders, hips, and legs) to move the bike where you want it to go.  Depending on snow and trail conditions, you may find yourself playing with the way you distribute your weight and experimenting with different body positions.  You will also be working on your balance and core strength. 

A bonus of riding in soft conditions is that it requires more power, more strength, and more torque, to ride the same terrain.  This requires a higher expenditure of energy in a short period of time making a great whole body workout. All in all, this translates to improved fitness, strength, and renewed training motivation which sets you up nicely for the spring cycling season. 

If you haven’t ridden a fat bike and you want to, now is the time to do it! Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado.  Make sure to check out our fat bike selection of cycling apparel, bike parts, and cycling accessories too. Welcome to the fat bike club! 

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Weather Inspired: Why Try a Fat Bike

January 31, 2019

Snow! Cold weather! More snow! Wind! Ugh! The last few weeks the weather has played havoc on the cyclists along Colorado’s Front Range.  Sure, we have had a few good days here and there to get some decent road rides in but for the most part, it has been a juggling act with the weather to maintain any commitment to getting in extra miles.  

Yet, there are a few cyclists that are thoroughly enjoying this time of year and our weather.  Who might they be? Those that ride fat bikes! According to singletracks.com, *On average, fat bike owners ride 76 times per year, that is double the amount that they expect to ride before they purchase a fat bike! Why not double your fun? Increase your rides and actually enjoy riding in the winter and the snow!  Now is a perfect time to check out a fat bike for yourself.  Here’s what you can expect.

Surprisingly, one of the most noticeable things about riding a fat bike is that they are easy to ride. Comfortable, in fact!  The large tires provide more balance and control, which gives a beginner rider the confidence to seek more adventure.  Also, because the large tires absorb a lot of the vibration from riding, there is less stress on your hands and lower back.  And as deceiving as it might be, the larger tires do not equate to difficulty managing the bike. Maneuverability is just as easy as on a regular mountain bike. 

Fortunately, fat bikes are versatile.  Right now, they are great for riding in snow.  Having a fat bike may actually motivate you to ride more in the winter conditions.  However, they aren’t just for snow riding.  Fat bikes can be ridden year round and in varying conditions. They do really well on dirt and many even race fat bikes for 100-mile mountain bike events.  That may sound crazy but not so if you’ve ridden a fat bike.  Fat bikes offer a unique experience and allow you to explore familiar trails in a new light. Fat biking lifts the winter doldrums by giving you new freedom to ride off-road.  

Get in on the fat bike action! Demo a fat bike at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop in Golden, Colorado and get ready for our upcoming Staunton Fattie Frenzy event.  It’s a Fat Bike Celebration!  Enjoy these extra posts on fat bikes, fattie bike parts, and fat bike cycling accessories.

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Boost Your Cycling Power With These Supplements

January 24, 2019

Every hour of cycling adds an hour to your life, according to a study at Cambridge University. The benefits of cycling are indisputable; cycling can protect you from heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, some cancers, and even depression. The next question is how to make the most of your cycling experience. Many people use nutrition and supplements to give their bodies extra power to muscle up a hill or go that extra mile. Supplements infuse the body with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and phytochemicals that help support cellular repairs and upkeep. Supplements are a great way to give your body a boost both before and after cycling. However, all supplements are not created equal.

Increase Your Endurance
Cycling takes a lot of endurance from the body. While cycling, you breathe more deeply and the heart and blood vessels work overtime to perform an aerobic activity. You perspire, and your body temperature increases. Luckily, there are certain supplements that can help a cycler perform at their best. One such supplement is Beta Alanine. This supplement is good for a strong burst of energy, needed by track cyclists for a jolt of energy on the road or while riding a mountain bike. Make sure to take it in smaller doses of 0.8 grams for a total of 3 grams a day to start. Larger doses may result in the unwanted side effect of paraesthesia – tingling of the skin. Creatine can also help to build strength, as it increases levels of phosphocreatine, which is used by the muscles during high-intensity activity. Hydration is another important component of cycling that shouldn’t be overlooked. Minerals and carbohydrates in hydration and energy drinks help to balance out electrolytes lost in sweat and give energy for athletic performance.

Recovery Routine
After cycling, the fibers in the muscles have been broken down and need to recover to become stronger. Whey protein contains all nine amino acids that exist outside the body. It is absorbed very quickly into the body to help muscles rebuild. Whey protein is a byproduct of milk and can be consumed in a smoothie or even in a bowl of oatmeal. To prevent delayed onset muscle soreness, a vitamin C supplement can help. A study from the University of North Carolina Greensboro states that 3 grams of vitamin C per day drastically reduces post-workout soreness. The supplement L-carnitine L-tartrate can also help. It transports fatty acids into the mitochondria of the cells. These fatty acids are a fuel source for the cells. It cleans the blood of lactic acid, which produces the soreness that can be experienced post-workout. 

Be Aware of What You Buy
Just because a supplement says it is for a cyclist or for post-workout recovery, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s full of beneficial ingredients. Watch for these ingredients in your supplements to make sure that you’re doing right for your body. Hydrogenated oils are sometimes used as a cheap filler in vitamins. These oils contain harmful trans fat that can prevent the beneficial chemicals from working to reduce inflammation. Sodium benzoate is a preservative that can cause allergic reactions, and is particularly harmful to blood health when taken in conjunction with vitamin C. Sibutramine is another chemical sometimes used in supplements to increase energy. However, it has been known to increase the chances of heart attack and stroke.

Supplements are a great way to make the most of your cycling experience. They can help with energy, endurance, and recovery. However, it’s important to read all the labels thoroughly to make sure that anything you put in your body is truly beneficial to your health.  

Liked reading this post? Enjoy more posts on the subject of nutrition and recovery in these Peak Cycles / BikeParts.com posts: 

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Staunton Blizzard: The 2nd Annual Front Range Fat Bike Race – January 20, 2019

January 17, 2019

At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we love fat biking and we want others to love it too!

Because we know great trail conditions can make a good day into an awesome day, all of us at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and Big Ring Cycles have partnered with 285 Nordic and Staunton State Park to raise money for grooming equipment at Staunton. Join us in building a great location for fat bike riders for years to come, right here in the front range. Here’s what you can expect. 

The event is this Sunday, January 20th at Staunton State Park. So, register today and you’re all set to join in the fun for the Second Annual Staunton Blizzard, the Front Range Fat Bike Race! There are two courses to choose from.

Amateur course: A beautiful 12.1-mile loop that includes the following trails: Staunton Ranch – Borderline – Mason Creek. Fatties rollout at 8,100 feet for a route that includes 2,000 feet of breathtaking elevation gain
Elite Course: A challenging 18-mile route. Trails to be announced.

The race categories:
• Masters Men’s (age 46 and above)
• Masters Women’s (age 46 and above)
• Senior Men’s (age 21-45)
• Senior Women’s (age 21-45)
• Junior Men’s (age 20 and under)
• Junior Women’s (age 20 and under)
• Elite course

The schedule:
Check-in begins at 8:15.
Races begin at 9:00

What if you are interested but not racing? After the race categories, join a “Smiles and Miles” group to ride this beautiful course.

Great! You’re IN! Now what? 

Well, get prepared! In our post, Fat Bike Essentials for First Time Fat Bike Riders, we give you the lay of the land of what you need to know. The quick rundown is to have the right cycling apparel! Stay warm and you will ride in comfort. Generally, the most important tip for keeping warm is to layer and to carry a pack to put your extra layers away. Some people prefer to wear ski goggles and a ski helmet, and lots of people wear winter boots. Poagies, insulated hand covers that slip over your handlebars, are also very useful for keeping your hands warm. Keeping your feet warm is key. Wearing boots, preferably waterproof, with thick socks on flat pedals or clipless boots with multiple pairs of socks works.

Are you wondering about drinking, and staying hydrated in the cold? Well, we have a few tips for you. First off, even though you might not feel the urge to drink as much when racing or riding your fat bike in the cold, it is still important to drink fluids. During the shorter race, you may opt to carry an insulated water bottle and start with really warm water. You can also add electrolytes or other ingredients to change the freezing point of the fluid but may find limited success if you think you’ll be out there riding for a while. When using a CamelBak or something similar, stick the bite valve in your jacket and blow out all the water in your hose. You can also buy neoprene insulators for the hydration hose to help keep the water as a liquid substance. 

What about pedals? There is the clipless/flat pedals debate for fat bikes. Ultimately, it’s your choice! The biggest problems people have making this decision is deciding how to best keep their feet warm. Having flat pedals will allow you to wear thick winter boots, which are more conducive to keeping your feet warm. However, you can buy clipless boots that are designed to handle colder temperatures. Using a clipless pedal could prove annoying in snowy terrain if you have to dismount and remount frequently during your ride. 

Finally, there’s tire preparation. What kind of tires is recommended? How wide? What pressure? Tube vs. Tubeless? It’s no different than the usual configuration – you have to match tire pressure with conditions. Softer snow conditions: 6psi. Harder conditions: 8-10psi. (much lower than the normal bike). Fat-bike tires are typically marked as 26 x 4.0 though most are really more like 26 x 3.7 or 3.8. The actual size of the mounted tire will vary depending on the rim width used for the wheel.  Many riders prefer tubeless because they reduce over a point of rotation weight and they provide better traction.

At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we are all big fans of fat bike riding. We sure hope you are feeling the urge to take on this fun fat bike phenomenon and join us this Sunday, January 20th at Staunton State Park, 12102 South Elk Creek Road, Pine, CO 80470 for the Staunton Blizzard: The 2nd Annual Front Range Fat Bike Race

Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to get ready for the race.  Check out our fat bike selections, cycling apparel, hydration strategies, fat bike bike parts, and cycling accessories.  Plus, get even more of your questions answered in person!  Be sure to register for the event and we’ll see you on Sunday! 

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Smoothies Are A Perfect Mix For Cyclists

January 10, 2019

A study out of Stanford University School Of Medicine demonstrated that insomniacs cut the time to fall asleep by half, slept longer and enjoyed a better quality sleep after beginning to cycle 20-30 minutes every other day. And that’s just one of the benefits cycling can have on your life. But now that you’re riding, how do you keep energy going into your body when you are putting so much out? The answer is a smoothie one. Yes, a simple-to-make smoothie, with all the right ingredients can keep your body moving in the right direction, whether you’re coming or going on your bike. 

A smoothie to start the day

Before you kick start your kickstand, you want to get your body in shape to stay in shape. For cycling, you need energy to not just get moving, but to keep moving in order to get the aerobic benefit and build muscle tone. The smoothie habit is a healthy one to adopt, as it adapts to your active life. Energize first thing in the morning with fresh ingredients that taste good, are quick to blend and provide the boost of nutrients a cup of coffee and a bowl of oatmeal just can’t provide. 

Beyond the banana

Fruit provides important vitamins but also great flavor that can mask some of the other less tasty but oh-so-healthy additions. Of course, bananas make for the consistency, but also provide fiber, vitamins, and potassium. Other fruits kick up the flavor and the vitamin contribution as well. Then add some spinach or a bit of kale to a cold green tea or even coffee base, blend in almond milk and you will have just the morning lift to get you going. Explore the many combinations to make your perfect morning smoothie, adding honey and other healthy flavors until it’s just the way you like it.

A Smoothie Ride

Just as you need the right bike, with all the right bike parts to keep your bike running strong, it’s important to stay energized and hydrated to keep your body running strong. Again, a smoothie you can take along will make the going easier and keep your health on the right track. A coconut water based smoothie contains electrolytes, to which you can add seasonal fresh, low-calorie fruits like watermelon, a better choice than fruit juice. Hemp, ground flax or chia seeds will blend in a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. This sip-n-ride mix will not only taste delicious, but will give you way more cycling stamina than water alone.

Bringing it home

Getting off the bike and jumping into a chocolate peanut butter smoothie is not only flavorfully rewarding, but with peanut and unsweetened cocoa powder mixed into regular or soy milk with a drop of honey, you’ll feel like you’re cheating while you’re replenishing yourself with goodness. Even a drop of protein powder, vanilla extract or a banana will dance on your tongue and bring nourishment back to your belly after a strenuous ride. Again, make your smoothie your own by trying different combinations of healthy ingredients.

Even more body benefits in smoothies

They are easy to make and easy to carry along, and smoothies can have health benefits for cyclists beyond being the well-balanced super-food you can treat yourself to without guilt. Depending on what you add, a smoothie any time can act as an anti-inflammatory, helping to keep your joints in check for the long run, so you can keep taking those rides comfortably for many years to come. They don’t say “A smoothie a day will keep the doctor away,” but with the right recipe, it very well could.

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New Year, New You – Strategies to Keep your 2019 Cycling Goals

January 3, 2019

Welcome to 2019!  Does the New Year have you inspired, motivate, and excited to take on more in the coming year?  It’s a new year and a fresh start to actually doing all the things you want to do. Yet, as you may know, not all New Year’s resolutions and goals are created equally. Some are lofty and while you have good intentions, you know you aren’t really going after it. Then, there are other goals. The ones that would feel rewarding, satisfying and meaningful if you were to meet them. These are the heartfelt goals and resolutions that we’re talking about! The ones that inspire you and light you up!

What are those goals? How do you plan to achieve them? And how will you know when you have met them? Start 2019 off right by having a plan.

Define your intention. This is important. What do you intend for yourself? How committed are you? What are you willing to change in your schedule, your training, your bike setup, and even your approach towards meeting your goals.  Without having a clear intention and determining your level of commitment, you won’t reach your goals.  

Define your goals.  Identify specifically what you want to accomplish in 2019.   Make a list.  The more specific the better because vague goals can’t be quantified.  When you list out specifically what you want to accomplish and a time frame in which to do this, you make your goals SMART.  Making SMART  (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound) goals not only boosts your chances of attaining your goals, but you also become a better cyclist in the process.  What might these goals look like? For example, a goal to consistently hit target heart rate zones or power zones for specific workout.  Leverage cycling accessories that are available to you – as in power meters and /or heart rate monitors to provide objective feedback.  Based on your goals, you can then get an action plan together by defining your training objectives.

Define your training objectives.  Now that you have your goals set for 2019, it’s time to take inventory of your abilities to meet your goals for training and events. What are your strengths?  What are your weaknesses?  For every area of improvement, decide what activity is needed to improve that.  If you have poor bike handling skills, then schedule time each week for bike drills.  If your core is weak, schedule time for yoga or strength training. And, if you are like most cyclist, you could use a little stretching. Make time for stretching to improve your flexibility.

Define your approach.  Get a game plan together of how you plan to train and race.  Take stock of last year’s performances, where can you improve?  Check in with your commitment level again. What is it going to take to make manageable changes to your lifestyle to support your goals?  Take time now to review and plan ahead.  Take a fresh approach to 2019! Experiment with new ideas, products, and approaches. As in, maybe try a new on bike nutrition product. Experiment with different bike parts and bike components.  Consider designing and refining a pre-event routine, like a race day ritual.  This thoughtful process brings a fresh approach to 2019 and keeps you motivated through the winter months.

Define results: How will you know that you reached your goals? It’s important to have this dialed in so that you can celebrate your success and feel rewarded for your commitment.

Goal setting is much more than simply saying you want something to happen. Unless you clearly define exactly what you want and understand why you want it the first place, your odds of success are considerably reduced. Start the year off right with small, manageable changes to your lifestyle to reach your goals. Stay focused. Be consistent. And, keep your eyes on the prize! Here’s wishing you the very best in 2019! 

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What Does Your Bike Want for Christmas? 

December 13, 2018

 

You’re making your list and checking it twice, but have you remembered everybody on your list? As we’re officially into the holiday shopping season,  you have about two weeks to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list:

– Spouse – check

– Parents – check

– Siblings – check

– Children – check

– Bike –   ???

You haven’t forgotten about your two wheeled friend, now have you? Let’s think about this.  The holidays are for sharing gifts celebrating the special relationships you have with others.  Doesn’t your bike create fun, fitness, and basically, the greatest feeling in the world for you?  Show some love to your bike this holiday season.  Get it some presents!  If you’re stuck wondering what to get your bike for Christmas, then look no further!  At Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we’ve put together a list of spin worthy list of holiday gift suggestions.  

Super Plush Gifts:
For those going all our for their bike, nothing beats a companion for your bike.  Yes! That’s right – get a new bike! You might think, your bike already has one – maybe two- or even three bikes…how could your bike need another? You and your bikes always need another bike. We all know this truth. One can never ever have enough bikes. Consider a new road bicycle or mountain bike.  Even better, opt for a fat bike!  

Maybe a new bike is a bit of a stretch, but you really want to treat your bike to something, consider purchasing a power meter.  A power meter is a great training tool and helps optimize performance as it relates to specific goals and objectives. Our post, The Best Training Aids to Launch into Spring Cycling, dives into the benefits of training with power. As for which power meter to purchase, consider our most popular one, Stages Power Meters. Another option is the Pioneer Power Meter and a third option is a company that’s been around for a while now – PowerTap Power Meter. 

Plush Gifts on a Budget:
Gift giving for you bike doesn’t necessarily mean going all out financially. There are plenty of thoughtful gifts available to show your bike just how much you care. Some great ideas include some of these. 

Tubes: This is one gift you absolutely positively will get used. Make sure you get the right size of tube. If you aren’t sure, stop in the Peaks Cycling Store and ask one of our friendly staff to help you. Or, visit us online at bikeparts.com

A good bottle: Every cyclist has a ton of bottles and your bike likes them too! Buy a good bottle and stuff it with other goodies.

Tires: Treat yourself to bike to some new rubber! We have a ton of tires for road and mountain bikes. 

Lube: Bikes like to be seen – not heard! Every bike enjoys a smooth bike chain with just the right amount of lube. Get some now and stock up for the 2019 season while you’re at it!  

See how easy it is to get your bike a great gift for Christmas? If by chance you are still in need of ideas for creative Christmas gifts, stop by the shop in Golden, Colorado or give us a call at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop (303) 216-1616 and we’ll gladly help you out!  Happy Holidays Friends!

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The Best Christmas Present for Your Child is a Bike 

December 6, 2018

Do you know what tops Santa’s wish list for kids?  A new bicycle! There are plenty of reasons to support purchasing a bike over phones, playstation, and other sought-after presents.  For starters, having a new bike to ride gets your child outside – away from screen time and exercising. Not only does this promote a healthier and more balanced lifestyle now, but also paves the way for a long life of well being.  As Santa’s helpers, here’s our list of must haves to make your bike selection easy.  

Get the right size bike.  We mean it! This means having a bike that fits. If purchasing a new toddler or youth bike, make sure you avoid the common mistake of buying a bike that they’ll “grow into.” Doing so can set your child back a couple of years. When shopping, be aware that children’s bikes are measured by their wheel size (not frame size). The right size is one where your child can comfortably get on the bike and stand with his or her feet on the ground. If you have questions on the right size bike for your child, visit our staff at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop. We’re more than happy to help you select the right size bike for your child.

Get the right clothes.  Christmas is a time to spoil the children with all the things your parents never got you as a kid. From stocking stuffers to cycling accessories and even cycling apparel. Kids love clothes, gear, and bike parts too! Dress your kids for cycling success. Investing in a well fitting helmet, along with a jersey, cycling shorts, and a good pair of gloves inspires your kids and affects enjoyment levels and performance. If your child is comfortable, they are going to want to ride. 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.  If you aren’t sure on sizes, we’re happy to help dial those details in! We know how important it is to open a present, and enjoy it immediately!  

Finally, did you know we have one of the largest selection of kids bikes in Golden, Colorado? We do! Better yet, we’re offering 10% off all kids bikes through the end of the year, in store and online! Stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop or visit us online to make this year, your child’s most cherished Christmas.  Happy Holidays! 

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Santa’s Naughty or Nice List for Cyclists

November 29, 2018

The holidays are here!  Santa is making his list and he is checking it twice.  The real question is, have you been naughty or nice this year?  As you think of your answer, consider these questions: 

  • Have you ridden nicely with others? 
  • Have you keep your bike clean?  All of them? 
  • Have you used hand signals while riding on the roads? 
  • Were you kind to the trails and left no trace while riding on mountain bike trails? 
  • And finally, a bonus question: What snacks are you leaving for Santa this year? Here’s a hint: Leave something good like Cytomax, EFS, or Hammer Nutrition to support Santa and his crew through the night! 

Surely most of us have been nice cyclist, right?  Well deserving cyclist deserve the best cycling gifts. Splurge a little with these great holiday ideas. 

Gift yourself a Bike fit – Do you find your hands falling asleep while riding? Do you experience shoulder or neck pain after a long ride? A bike fit isn’t just for professional riders – they are for anyone who rides whether they are a beginner or advanced rider. A bike fit helps ensure riding comfort but it also impacts technique which is crucial to preventing overuse injuries and how an athlete rides. Give us a call (303) 216-1616 or stop by the shop in Golden to schedule your bike fit.

Demo a fat bike!  Up your giggle factor and book a fat bike demo. You are guaranteed to discover another level of enthusiasm for your normal winter riding program. 

And last but not least, what is a cyclist dream gift?  Bike parts! What cyclist doesn’t love bike parts? Whether it’s a new shifters, brakes, seatpost, or fork, you know you want it.  So stop by Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop to find get all of your cycling needs.  

But hang on a minute….nice cyclists don’t just think about themselves! Has your bike been nice too?  Show it some love this holiday season.  Get it some presents! Your bike’s #1 holiday wish would be to drop the weight – on bike parts that is!  You might be wondering where to start. A good place to start is purchasing a high quality wheel set.  A good wheel set impacts ride quality, ease of pedaling, reliability, and functionality.  So, get the best you can afford.  Add some new, lighter tires on your wheels and your bike will thank you for the bling! 

Speaking of bling, Santa’s slay isn’t the only thing that lights up! Light up your bike! Whether you are bike commuting, going for a holiday stroll, or getting in base miles, being visible is critical. Here are some tips to getting the right bike parts. 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. Add festive holiday cheer with a bike bell or outfit your hydration pack with holiday lights. 

Here at Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop, we feel that the true Christmas spirit of cycling is the love of the bike – whether you have been naughty or nice.  It’s the adventure cycling brings – the challenge of a new ride, the experimentation with new or different bike parts, the joy of connecting with friends in meaningful ways, and the building of camaraderie with teammates.  Here’s to all the nice cyclist out there!  These are all the very blessings we wish for you and your family this holiday season.  Happy Holidays from Peak Cycles Bicycle Shop and BikeParts.com!

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