Americans Support Federal Funding For Biking and Walking

Posted on May 15, 2012 by aa

Ask Your Member of Congress to Protect Funding in the Transportation Bill

(bikeleague.org) Senators and Representatives are meeting now to create a final transportation bill, and we need your help to protect the funds that the Senate designated for local biking and walking programs.

We are working to preserve the Cardin-Cochran agreement. This agreement was part of the Senate bill passed two months ago with bipartisan support. It allows local governments and school systems to access much-needed funds to make bicycling and walking safer and more accessible, in response to local needs. The agreement does not increase the overall size of the transportation bill, it simply maintains a funding stream that local governments have used for over 20 years to provide their citizens with a variety of safe transportation options.

Funding for bicycling and walking has popular support—a recent Princeton survey found that 83 percent of Americans support federal funds for sidewalks and bike lanes.

Please act now.  Fill in your zip code, below, or, if you’re seeing this in an email, click here to go to our action center.

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Bike Score arrives, analyzing the most bike-friendly cities

Posted on May 14, 2012 by aa

(GeekWire – May 14, 2012) You’ve heard of Walk Score, which assigns a ranking of 0 to 100 to homes and apartments based on how close they are to schools, transit, restaurants and more. Now, the folks behind that Seattle startup are rolling out the much-anticipated companion to that service: Bike Score.

Like the name suggests, Bike Score rates the bikeability of cities based on factors such as bike lanes, hilliness, road connectivity, nearby amenities, and the percent of people in that area who bike to work.

“For this release, we’re showing bikeability maps of cities and the overall city score but didn’t add the functionality yet to look up individual address scores,” said Walk Score’s Matt Lerner. The new Bike Score functionality is available in 10 cities in the U.S. and 10 in Canada. As part of the new offering, Bike Score has rated each of those cities. Those with scores of 70 or higher are considered “very bikeable,” while scores of 50 to 69 are “bikeable.”

The new service comes four months after Walk Score raised $2 million from a group of Seattle angels that included former Amazon.com CTO Shel Kaphan, former Facebook general counsel Rudy Gadre, entrepreneur Edward Yim and others.

Here’s a look at the top 10 cities for biking in the U.S.

1. Minneapolis (Bike Score: 79)

2. Portland (Bike Score: 70)

3. San Francisco (Bike Score: 70)

4. Boston (Bike Score: 68)

5. Madison (Bike Score: 67)

6. Washington, D.C. (Bike Score: 65)

7. Seattle (Bike Score: 64)

8. Tucson (Bike Score: 64)

9. New York (Bike Score: 62)

10. Chicago (Bike Score: 62)

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How It’s Made – Carbon Fiber Bicycles

Posted on May 12, 2012 by aa

This is a very cool video of how a custom carbon fiber bicycle frame is made. It’s from the Science Channel and features a custom Guru frame.

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Origin-8 BB30 Adapter Kit

Posted on May 12, 2012 by aa
BB30 Adapter

Origin-8 BB30 Adapter kit

Brand new from Origin-8, a BB30 bottom bracket adapter that allows you to run a non-BB30 crank with a BB30 frame. With this adaptation system you reap all the benefits of having a BB30 bottom bracket without having to buy a super expensive crank. Most standard outboard/integrated crank and bottom bracket systems on the market today have a spindle O.D. (outside diameter) of 24mm. A BB30 bearing will not accommodate this, but with their new BB30 adapters you can run any GXP or HT2 spindle on a frame that is designed for the BB30 bearing system for a fraction of the cost. The adapter is complete with the C-clips, sealed cartridge bearings and cones for a fluid and finished look.

  • Machined alloy adaptors
  • Sealed Cartridge bearings (6806)
  • Shims and C Clips included
  • Adapters allow the use of 24mm OD spindle cranks in BB30 frames

Take a look at the options HERE.

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3 Affordable 29er Frames For Your Custom Build

Posted on May 11, 2012 by aa

Santa Cruz Highball  – $650

Santa Cruz Highball

Santa Cruz Highball

The skinny carbon fiber killing machine has now been joined by a new ALUMINUM brother. Taking the swift and light intent of their 29″ wheeled carbon Highball and crafting it out of aluminum, Santa Cruz has added a couple very notable other features: value and versatility. The proprietary aluminum tubing allows for a strong, respectably light frame, and features the same responsive geometry as their carbon race bike. Riders have the option of running a fixed position rear dropout for geared use, or a pivoting, adjustable dropout for single speed use. Clean lines and super-versatility aside, this is also one of our most affordable bikes, redefining the notion of “bang for your buck.” Check out these features:

  • Fixed or swinger SS dropouts
  • Tapered headtube
  • Hydroformed top- and downtubes
  • Asymmetrical forged chainstay yoke (for optimal strength, stiffness, and chainring clearance)
  • Brake strut on non-driveside for vibration-free braking
  • Two bottle mounts
  • Threaded BB shell (this is still the best, most user-friendly, widely compatible, globally serviceable way to install a bottom bracket.)
Available in 4 sizes (S, M, L, XL)

Niner EMD – $550

Niner EMD

Niner EMD in Hot Tomale

The E.M.D. 9 may be the least expensive frame in the Niner lineup but it benefits from the same design process and expectations that we require from every Niner frame. Newly redesigned to integrate custom hydroformed tubing and a tapered headtube, the E.M.D. 9 is a worthy little brother to the Air 9.

Because of the larger welding area created by the new tapered headtube we are able to include a new, massive hydroformed downtube as well as a significantly larger diameter toptube, contributing to a much stronger frame.

By allowing for the use of the newest generation of 1.5” tapered steerer suspension forks and integrated headset, we create the stiffest front end possible – with the same stack height as our original E.M.D. 9 model.

The E.M.D. 9 is finished off with the quality you have come to expect from Niner, with all of the attention to detail that every Niner frame gets, including the stainless steel Niner head badge, reamed and faced headtube and bottom bracket, chased BB threads and faced disc brake mount tabs.

Available in 5 sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL)

Misfit Psycles diSSent (Al) – $450

Misfit Psycles diSSent

Misfit Psycles diSSent (Al)

The original. This is the frame that started it all. Mostly.

The diSSent (Al) is a versatile 29er that performs equally well racing, riding or just doddling along.

The diSSent’s unique geometry will provide you with a 29er frame that you ride IN (not ON). The result is a frame that melds the best features of your olde 26er with the advantages of 29″ wheels.

Misfit Psycles diSSent (Al) is constructed of 6061 aluminum. 6061 provides numerous design, cost, ride and manufacturing benefits over generic 4130 chromoly, 7005 and vastly better value then Scandium or Titanium.

6061 is (arguably) the most versatile of the alloys, offering excellent strength and elongation properties for the given budget.

Available in 4 sizes (S, M, L, XL)

(Prices shown are for frame only and are subject to change by the manufacturer or the individual seller)

You can find links to these and other companies here.

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Colnago Prestige Disc Brake CX Bike

Posted on May 11, 2012 by aa

Ok, so a Colnago is probably out on my reach, the Prestige Disc still just might be my dream cyclocross bike.

Cyclocross bicycles have to be ridden through some of the worst conditions, and usually due to the time of the year that the Cyclocross season is running those conditions are normally wet and cold. The wet/cold/muddy conditions are the perfect environment in which to render regular rim brakes inadequate. With the increasing popularity of Cyclocross, and the courses changing to include longer and more technical downhill section the best braking system to have is a disc brake system. This is why Colnago has made their championship winning Prestige chassis compatible with disc brakes.

Colnago Prestige Disc

Coming soon: Colnago Prestige disc brake CX bike

Aside from the braking performance, there are other key benefits too. Wheel removal and insertion is easier, as there are no brakes to loosen or release during the wheel change. There are also no brake assemblies out by the wheel rim/tire area, so the wheels can rotate within the frame and the fork in the muddiest of conditions without having brakes that will act as mud-collectors. With a newly designed fork, and the uncluttered seatstay area at the rear, the Prestige offers large tire clearances almost unseen before on a Cyclocross bicycle.

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Mountain biking on Oahu with Bike Hawaii

Posted on May 10, 2012 by aa

One of my most memorable mountain biking experiences was back in 2006 when I was in Hawaii. I wanted to sign up for a mountain biking tour with Bike Hawaii but my time on Oahu did not coincide with the Bike Hawaii mountain bike schedule. On my way to Hawaii, I stayed overnight in Las Vegas to visit friends. When my phone rang while in the casino in Vegas, I was about to get more than I expected out of my trip. There were three others that where in the same situation as I was, they want to mountain bike but their travels didn’t coincide with the Bike Hawaii schedule either. So, the folks at Bike Hawaii decided to go ahead and take an unscheduled mountain bike trip with just the four of us. Four riders and the tour guide. Wow, this is going to be a private mountain bike excursion in Hawaii. Because of scheduling I didn’t really plan to mountain bike so I had no cycling clothing, no cycling shoes, nor did I bring my pedals or helmet. Well, shorts, t-shirt and sneakers will have to do. There was no way I was going to miss this.

 The ride was held in the Kaaawa Valley and featured dirt roads, double track and fast rolling single track trails. There are WWII bunkers and movie sets. And we even happened upon a wild board that wasn’t too pleased to see us. The typical Bike Hawaii ride is 2 to 3 hours and about 6 miles. But this was a “special” ride, we were out there for a while. The tour guide didn’t have to keep track of 20 or so riders. He had 4 experienced riders and miles and miles of private trails to explore and  he loved to ride. We were definitely the lucky few.

It’s a trip that I will, some day, make again. If  your a cyclist and you visit Oahu, this is something that is a must do. Even is you are not an experienced mountain biker, it’s a must do.

The dramatic beauty of the lush Kaaawa Valley, majestic Koolau Mountain cliffs and stunning ocean views are the backdrop for this epic mountain biking experience on Oahu. Capture the thrill of riding along scenic dirt roads, double track and single track as we explore this sacred and historic Hawaiian valley. This is the same site for the Hawaiian Mountain Tour Pro/Am, the 24Hours of Hell Mountain Bike Race and many other off-road triathlons. This is a great introduction to off-road mountain biking and also offers challenges for experienced riders. With a multitude of trails to choose from, we can easily cater the experience to your skill level.

Your ride through the Hawaiian countryside will visit a kauhale (village), WWII bunkers and scenic movie locations including Lost, 50 First Dates, Jurassic Park, Godzilla, Wind Talkers and more. During the months of December thru April, you might see whales from the trails.

Approximately 6 miles /  2-3 hours of riding. Inquire about a $30.00 Kona full-suspension upgrade.

Looking for more aggressive riding? Call direct for private hardcore trail rides.

Mountain Biking Kaaawa Valley

$119.38 Adult

$76.40 Children (13 years and under)

Tax (4.712%) is not included in these prices.

Pick-up: 9:00am

Return: 3:30pm

Schedule:

Wednesday, Sunday or call for availability.

Includes:

Professional nature guides, access to private land, complimentary round-trip transportation from Waikiki, Kona mountain bikes with front-suspension, Bell helmets, optional use of rain gear, hip pack, bottled water, trail mix, deli-style lunch and cold beverages.

Note: Gratuities are not included.

Suggested gratuity: 10% of tour price.

What to Bring:

Dress comfortably, wear shoes and socks and bring a camera. Bring a change of clothes in case of a wet or muddy ride.

Cancellation Policy:

Any cancellations or changes within 24 hours of tour will be charged 50%.  No-shows 100%.

via Bike Hawaii

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National Bike Month is officially here!

Posted on May 5, 2012 by aa

With longer, milder days, May is a perfect time to recognize bicycling for the multitude of benefits it provides – improving our health, economy, and environment. Here are three ways to make the most of this year’s National Bike Month:

1) Go for a type of bike ride that you normally wouldn’t: If you’re a road rider, try a mountain bike ride. If you’ve never ridden your bike to work, give bike commuting a shot. And if the ride to work isn’t something you can tackle this year, ride your bike to run an errand you would normally do by car, even if it’s just a trip to the coffee shop or ice cream parlor. Remember—forty percent of trips Americans take are two miles or less, an easy bicycling distance.

2) Introduce one other person to bicycling. Whether it’s your partner, a coworker, a family member, or just a friend, help someone find a bike and go for a fun ride. Bicycling is a pretty amazing thing, right? Why not encourage someone else to discover the activity that brings you so much happiness.

3) Participate in one or more National Bike Month events. A list of community rides can be found at the League of American Bicyclists, and here are some key national events:

This May and this summer should be an amazing time for bicycling in America. An increasing percentage of our national leaders recognize bicycling as a simple solution for transportation challenges, jobs and economic development, and health and obesity issues. Communities are investing in bike lanes and paths more than ever, helping bicycling to become safer and stress-free. We encourage you to take advantage of these new places to ride by participating in National Bike Month!

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HRRT Spring Endurance Dirt Series

Posted on May 2, 2012 by aa

New this year! Endurance Series Challenge to be held May 20, 2012. Riders can choose your own distance, 2, 4 or 6 hours! Get ready for those early season endurance races…the only endurance race in the NY in May.

FUN! SEMI TECHNICAL! Nearly 100% SINGLETRACK!

5 plus mile loop in Schenectady’s Central Park nature trails. Nearly 100% singletrack, with rocks, roots, stairs, log crossings, bridges, and short steep up and down hills.

There are a bunch of options for racers…solo, duo, and three person. Should a class have less than 4 racers or teams, classes may be combined

Merchandise Prizes award in each class for top three!

Directions: Take Northway (I-87) to exit 7.  Take route 7 towards Schenectady. Take a right onto Golf Rd. At the end of Golf Rd is Feur Ave. Turn Right onto Feur Ave and parking lot is immediately on your left. The ride is held in the trails, across from the parking lot, on the other side of Feur Ave. You will see a bunch of dirty bikers.

Date: May 20, 2012

Time: 10am- 4pm

Food: There will be limited water and food. Please bring anything else you desire.

Pit areas: Each racer or team for the 6 hour race  will have a pit area on pit row. You can bring a pop up tent, bike stand portbale shower ect, no grills are allowed, and no beer…park rules. Racers coming in later for the 4 or 2 hour series can choose a spot at the end of pit row, still on course side.

After Party: There will have a BBQ! Ask at the race for details.

Trail Description: Technical 5+ mile loop, in Central Park, Schenectady, NY. Roots, rocks, bridges, logs, short steep up and down hill. For a link to the trail information go here: http://capitalmtb.org/Resources/Schenectady%27s_Central_Park_Trails

Race updates will be posted on the HRRT Website. In the past there has been 60 plus racers at this event!

Day of event registration is available from 9:00 am. Pre-registered riders will have designated pit areas.

Day of registration there is a $5 surcharge.

These trails are part of the Schenectady County Parks Department recreation segment. We are allowed to host these events with a $5 day use fee to be collected from every rider day of event. This is separate from your registration fee, please come with exact change.

Register here via BikeReg.com: HRRT Spring Endurance Dirt Series, 2, 4 or 6 Hours Online Registration.

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May is National Bike Month

Posted on May 1, 2012 by aa

National Bike Month is an opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride. Whether you bike to work or school; to save money or time; to preserve your health or the environment; to explore your community or get to your destination, get involved in Bike Month in your city or state — and help get more people in your community out riding too!

National Bike Month is May 2012

National Bike Month is May 2012

When is Bike to Work Week and Day?

The League of American Bicyclists is the national sponsor of Bike Month, and this year Bike to Work Week is May 14-18 and Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 18.

When is Bike to School Day?

The inaugural Bike to School Day is May 9, 2012. Learn more, register or find an event in your area here.

Bike Month Guide

Need some ideas? Use the League’s Bike Month Guide to learn how to get started promoting your event.

Bike Month Promotion

Help promote bicycling this May and every month! The League has free Bike Month promo tools like logos, posters and banners to place on your Web site this May. Printer files can also be requested atcommunications@bikeleague.org.

Bike Month Events

Check the Bike Month events section often to see what Bike Month and Bike to Work Week events are going on in your community. Also, post your area, club, business or school’s Bike Month events on our Web site for free! Post or find Bike Month events today.

U.S. Bike Commuter Data

Do you want to know how many people ride bikes in America, who’s riding, and how many miles of bike lanes there are? The Census Bureau collects American Community Survey (ACS) data from a sample of the population in the United States and gives us this insight. Find out who’s riding bikes in the largest 244 cities in the U.S.

Ride Better

Are you planning on riding this Bike Month but need to freshen up on your bike safety and riding skills? The League has several bike education resources to help you ride confidently and safely this May. The League’s Ride Betterpage has detailed the Rules of the Road and commuting tips to making riding fun and safe for all new and returning riders. Simple bike maintenance and fix-it info is also located located on the Ride Better page.

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