Bike Gear Indianapolis

BGI customers on our email list have recently received our latest email newsletter.  
Here some of the useful items from the latest edition:

 

• Sale on bikes & gear @ BGI
• 12 Biking events coming
• Share Your Bicycle story (and win a Garmin 800)

Bicycle Garage Indy has three locations to serve you; Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Road at 82nd St.),  South (Greenwood, just west of I-65 on County Line Rd), and BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA.

 

- Jay S. Hardcastle, BGI Marketing Manager 
 

Just over one year ago I decided to start saving some gas by taking the bus to work.  The problem?  The nearest bus stop to my house was over 1 mile away and I would have to leave very early (5 am or so) to walk there in time for the bus. The solution? A bike, I started with a used one from a pawn shop and liked it so much that I soon upgraded to a "real" bike (with multiple gears and everything).  I rode in the Bicycle Garage Indy Get Back On Your Bike program and won the $400 that year.  Since then I have saved a lot of money and lost over 90lbs.  I ride to and from work some days and can be seen riding around downtown at lunch most days.  I love my bike and am always looking for more chances to ride.

Name: Sam Cohen
Bicycle: Schwinn
City: Indianapolis
State: IN
 

 

Sam: We are glad you enjoyed Get Back on Your Bike, and congratulations on your weight loss!  Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story.


 

 

 

 

 

Bicycle Garage Indy is pleased to announce it will be hosting  Bike Month Kick-Off - a brand new event, and evening of connections, contacts and info. Come to BGI North on Wednesday, May 1 (first day of National Bike Month) from 5:30-7:30 pm. You'll meet representatives of bicycle organizations, find out what going on in Indianapolis and Indiana for bicycling, find out about upcoming events and get ready to celebrate Bike Month and Bike to Work Day!

Organizations represented (as of 4/15/13):

• ActiveIndy Tours
• Bicycle Indiana
• BISSELL/ABG/Giant Racing Team
• Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA)
• Greenways Foundation
• Hoosier Mountain Bike Association (HMBA)
• Indy Bike Hub YMCA
• Nine13Sports
• Shifting Gears

We look forward to seeing you here.

 

Jay Hardcastle
Marketing Manager - Bicycle Garage Indy
jhardcastle@bgindy.com

 

Working in a bike shop is more than just getting to handle all the "cool" gear.  You also get to meet, talk and share with industry experts with decades fo experience in their fields and products.  During the Bicycle Garage Indy Spring Bicycle Expo,(March 15-7, 2013) we will have dozens of these experts from our suppliers on site, who come to help us staff the event.  They are stationed throught the store, helping customers with their specialties all during the weekend.

This year, we are offering a number these industry experts a chance to offer short semiars, 30 to 45 minutes in length, to talk to directly to you, our customers.  Many of these seminars will be the short version of the same product training they offer BGI staff each year.  And we have also given local bicycle advocacy groups, IndyCOG, Bicycle Indiana, and the Hoosier Mountain Bike Association (HMBA.org) a chanc tell you about their organizations too!

With one exception, the seminars will take place at Bicycle Garage Indy North (Dean Rd. at 82nd).    Their will be one seminar at BGI South and North, as Giant introduces the Propel Advance SL, their newest road bike, the most aerodynamic road in the world.  This is the Indiana introduction of this bike from Giant.

The seminars are occur throughout the day, all weekend.  The schedule, with a short description is listed below.  The seminars are free, with no registration required.

Seminar at BGI South
	Friday - 7pm BGI South	Eric Pirtle of Giant Bicycles will be unveiling Giant Bicycle's Propel Advanced SL, the world's most aerodynamic road bike. The Propel Advanced SL is wind-tunnel proven to be faster from every angle. You'll be the first people in Indiana to see the fastest aero bike ever built!
Seminars at BGI North
	Friday 1pm BGI North	Gary Thomas from Electra Bicycle Company will be discussing why Electra bikes (especially Townies) work so well for the casual cyclist that wants fun and comfort to be the major part of their cycling experience.  "Come see why a Townie can be a 30 minute vacation every day" with it's upright riding position, flat foot technology and how the customer can personalize their bike with all the fun accessories.
	Friday 3pm BGI North	Learn about Shimano's newest Dura-Ace groups from Dave Riggs from Shimano. A short movie will be shown about the development of the new mechanical and electronic groups and after the movie Dave Riggs will do a question and answer session.
	Friday 5pm BGI North	Eric Pirtle of Giant Bicycles will be unveiling Giant Bicycle's Propel Advanced SL, the world's most aerodynamic road bike. The Propel Advanced SL is wind-tunnel proven to be faster from every angle. Be the first to see he fastest aero bike ever built!
	Friday 7pm BGI North	Joshua Ruddy from Cannondale will discuss Cannondale's brand history/proprietary technology.
	Saturday 1pm BGI North	Presenter Kevin Gamper will highlight the company history, brand identity, distinctive product offerings and contributions to the sport and pastime of cycling of both Sugoi Performance Apparel and Sidi Cycling Shoes. Sugoi is a multisport apparel vendor out of Vancouver, British Columbia. Sidi is an Italian manufacturer of what many regard as the best-fitting cycling footwear on the planet. Come learn more about both of them! The discussion will be enhanced with samples of each vendor's coolest designs.
	Saturday 3pm BGI North	Find out about the new line of Zipp aero wheels from Jeff Gold from Zipp.
	Saturday 5pm BGI North	Luke Lindgren from Trek Bicycles will be on hand to discuss Trek's involvement with Bikes Belong and IMBA. He'll also give an overview of Trek's road bike line-up, Bontrager accessories, including road wheels.
	Saturday 7pm BGI North	Learn from Kevin Whited of IndyCOG about the latest activities and initiatives Indianapolis' bicycle advocacy organization, IndyCOG, has planned and how you can get involved: Bike to Work Day, Two Wheels One City, Indy Ride Guide and more.
	Sunday 2pm BGI North	Nancy Tibbett, Executive Director of Bicycle Indiana, will be fresh from the National Bike Summit and SPIN 2013 (indiana Bike Summit) armed with news about local and statewide bicycle news and initiatives of Bicycle Indiana. Bicycle Indiana works to create a more bicycle friendly Indiana through promoting and encouraging bicycling in Indiana, educating  bicyclists, motorists and policymakers on the benefits and importance of safe bicycling and advocating bicycle-friendly laws, policies and infrastructure in Indiana.  find out how you can help.
	Sunday 4pm BGI North	HMBA-IMBA has built and currently maintains over 125 miles of high quality mountain bike trails statewide.  With over 200 more miles of trail in the development of planning stages, Indiana is positioned to be a midwest destination for mountain biking.  Learn from Paul Arlinghaus, President of HMBA-IMBA, about HMBA-IMBA trails and how you can help build more trails.

We hope these seminars give you one more reason to stop by yourself, or tell a friend about Bicycle Garage Indy and BGI Fitness.

 

 

Join us at Bicycle Garage Indy North on Thursday, February 28,  and be surrounded by dozens of other women for a fun evening. The evening's topic will be "All About Chamois".  We'll have Brendan Gecik from Gore Bike Wear in town to answer all your questions about chamois, including - what is a chamois?.  What is a chamois?  (If you don't know, you definitely should attend this Ladies' Night!)

What is a chamois? Pronounced "Shammy", a chamois is defined as: 1) a small extremely agile goat antelope (Rupicapra rupicapra) of mountainous regions from southern Europe to the Caucasus; 2) a soft pliant leather prepared from the skin of the chamois or from sheepskin;3) a cotton fabric made in imitation of chamois leather.

Brendan will be talking about definitions #2/#3 and how it relates to comfort on the bike.  In his own words, here is Brendan's bio. "I've been riding and racing bikes since 1985, shortly after the bike was invented and right before the advent of suspension. I'm a cyclist first, racer second though. I feel more accomplishment helping others achieve and pulling teammates along than actually going for the win myself. I've raced everything from BMX to 24 Hour Solo Mountain Bike and I have a lot of time in the saddle to speak from. I've worked for GORE Bike Wear for two years and prior spent 12 years as a cycling apparel Buyer at retail so I've seen it all come and go or stay."

So mark your calendar, and and be sure to register (it's free) at www.bgindy.com/for/ladiesnight.  Registration is limited to 50, so please register soon!

Date:  Thursday, February 28, 2013
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 pm
Location: Bicycle Garage Indy North, 4340 E. 82nd St., Indianapolis, IN

Evening Activities

5:30-6:15 pm   Social time with food and beverages
6:15-6:30 pm   Introduction
6:30-7:15 pm   Presentation "All about Chamois" Brendan Gecik, Gore Bike Wear
7:15-8:30 pm   Shopping
8:00 pm          Door Prize Drawing / Shopping
8:30 pm          Evening ends

Registration is FREE. Discount coupons for clothing and accessories will be available to those who attend. 

Bonus Mid-Day Event
Meet & Greet with Brendan Gecik
Bicycle Garage Indy South (997 E. County Line Rd., Greenwood)
Thursday, February 28 12-2 pm
 
If you can't come to Ladies' Night but still want to learn about bicycling clothing, the mysterious chamois, or Gore Bike Wear products in particular, head to BGI South on Thursday February 28 between 12pm - 2pm. We're pleased to have Brendan Gecik from Gore visit BGI South for a less structured event. Don't be shy. We just want to help you learn about bike clothing so that you can enjoy your biking more. You can register (it's free) at www.bgindy.com/for/ladiesnight.

 

While this event is free, we hope you will please consider making a small donation (used bicycle parts, cash donation) to help support Shifting Gears. Shifting Gears is a program which takes in donated bikes, the bikes are refurbished by offenders and donated through community organizations to people who need bikes. Shifting Gears is a partnership between Bicycle Garage Indy, Volunteers of America of Indiana and Indiana Department of Correction. For more information: www.bgindy.com/for/shiftinggears

 

 

I am a fan of rack trunks for my longer rides and on our tandem.  They are great for carrying the extras you might need when you're out for more than just a workout, or have gear for a change in the weather.  But sometimes you need a bit more space, and you don't want to go all out with full panniers.  A great example is carrying a change of clothes or bringing home a few extra groceries.

Arkel has come up with a new solution with their Tailrider Expedition Rack Trunk ($189.99), now available at Bicycle Garage Indy.  What makes the Expedition unique are the two waterproof side panniers that connect to the rack trunk body with QR buckles.  This allows you to add capacity on one or both sides, for moderate loads ( 10-12 lbs in each bag) for day trips and errands.   The side bags can stored in the large side pockets, or left home if you don't expect to need them.  

The Expedition is ideal for minimalist "credit card: touring, where you can check-in to your lodging, drop off your side bag luggage and then go exploring with just the main rack trunk still on your bike.  

Arkel quality is legendary, and the Expedition's tough cordura nylon will take plenty of abuse.   The main compartment includes mesh pockets and a removable divider, and is foam lined to protect a camera or other electronics. The bag also has a built-in rain cover, D-rings for an optional shoulder strap, and a band for a clip-on tail light.  On top of the bag, the combination compression straps and carry handle are very handy for tying down a wet jacket away from the rest of your gear.

My personal Expedition is normally at home on my touring bike, and I will add the side bags for commuting, where I can drop in a change of clothes and a pair of shoes .  And without the side bags, I have used it for carrying all the gear for a century tour like the spring Tour of the Scioto River Valley (TOSRV).  TOSRV is famous for unpredictable weather, and the Tailrider lets you pack for almost anything.

Find a full selection of bicycle packs from Arkel, Bontrager and others at all three Bicycle Garage Indy locations: Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd at 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

If you have have been wanting to have that hanging shift or squealing brake fixed before the Hilly Hundred Weekend, (or any other big fall event) there is no better time than right now.  Any bicycle brought into to Bicycle Garage Indy for bicycle maintenance or service can be returned to you in just a few days. You can even call ahead to arrange an appointment and keep your bikes time in the shop to a minimum.

 "You want to pickup your bike (after service) and be able to ride two or three times before your event,"  says Bicycle Garage Indy North Service Manager Josh Prather, a long time Hilly Hundred rider.  "That gives you practice with the feel of new brakes or any other adjustments before your big ride."

Typical items to check at near the end of a busy riding season are tires, wheels and brake pads, especially for an event like the Hilly Hundred, with it's challenging weekend of climbing and descents.  And shifting, especially in the low gears that you many not use in your every day riding, should also be checked, to make sure you are able to shift smoothly into those climbing gears. You can find the ABC Quick bike check list, and other event ride tips, on the Bicycle Garage Indy Hilly Hundred resource page.

Bicycle Garage Indy now has three locations to offering complete bicycle service; Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd at  82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and  BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA.

September rides are marked by cool starts and warm finishes.  Here are some bicycle clothing essentials that keep you comfortable in the morning, without weighing you down when the day warms up.  These items are great for dry conditions in the high 40's to mid 60s, depending, of course, on how well you deal with cold tempratures.

Start with a wind vest or shell, like the Pearl Izumi ELITE Barrier Vest ($80).  The barrier fabric stops the wind, and the Screaming Yellow color stops traffic!  And it packs down easily to a palm sized bundle for your jersey or seat bag.

Combined with your vest or under a shell, a pair of arm warmers will keep the chill out.  Pearl Izumi's Therma Fleece Arm warmers ($30) or Gore Bike Wear Oxygen Windstopper Arm Warmers ($49.99) will do the trick, and when stripped off, take a minimum of space.

The next place you loose warmth is your head, through your well ventilated helmet. Here, a SmartWool Training Beanie ($24.99) will keep you warm and dry, without impacting your helmet fit.  Bicycle Garage Indy also has under-helmet ear warmers and caps from Gore Bike Wear, Pearl Izumi and Louis Garneau.  Or you can add a helmet cover from Gore or Louis Garneau.

Finally, take care of your legs.  Before it is cold enough for tights,  protect your knee joints from the early morning chill during your warm up miles with Thermal Fleece knee warmers or leg warmers from Pearl Izumi ($35 to $45) or Gore Bike Wear Oxygen Windstopper Leg Warmers ($69.99).

These items, combined with the right base layers, shorts and jersey, will keep you riding comfortably into the deep fall before more specialzed cold weather gear is needed.

Find a complete selection of bicycle clothing for all seasons at all three Bicycle Garage Indy locations: Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd. at 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

 

Community Invited to Help Celebrate Indy Bike Hub YMCA’s 1st Birthday by Biking & Exercising

One year ago, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, the City of Indianapolis and Bicycle Garage Indy came together to open the Indy Bike Hub YMCA. On September 12 the Indy Bike Hub YMCA will celebrate its first birthday and a host of activities have been planned. Mayor Greg Ballard, City of Indianapolis, will lead remarks and cut the first piece of birthday cake during a short ceremony at the Bike Hub YMCA beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The City was key in the initial idea of the Bike Hub project by recognizing the need to have this type of facility in Indianapolis to support bicycle commuters. Mayor Ballard and his staff enlisted the expertise of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis to operate and manage the facility and BGI was asked to come on as a partner.

The Indy Bike Hub YMCA made national attention when it opened last year because of the uniqueness of the facility. It’s a traditional YMCA with a cycling component. On one side members enjoy all of the amenities of the Y, which includes state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment, a free weight area, wellness coaching, group exercise classes, and locker rooms featuring expanded and vented lockers, steamers and hair dryers. On the opposite side, bicycle commuters have access to one of the city’s best bicycle experts – BGI. Cyclists who commute to work are able to park their bicycles indoors in a safe and secure facility, with access to top of the line cycling gear, accessories and bike repairs.

One member said she just started a new workout routine at the Indy Bike Hub Y and is excited to see the results of her effort, but also shares that the Y has given her much more than better health. She wrote:

“The Y has been really good for me in many ways. I find that I am creating a little culture for myself there. Not just with what I have been doing, but with the relationships that I have built. From the front desk staff, to the trainers, other participants in the classes, the ladies in the locker room, and the regulars that are there every morning like myself; you can tell that everyone acknowledges each other and there is kind of an unspoken support and encouragement.  I don’t know why I didn’t do this years ago.”

Steve Carlsen, has been a member of the Bike Hub Y since its opening.

“I am an avid cyclist and I moved to Indianapolis in 2007. I love the “vibe” of the Y, especially the Bike Hub. I felt welcomed when I was fatter and weaker than I am now and I feel that same sense of welcome now that I am 20 pounds lighter and a stronger. I enjoy riding to work from my neighborhood. It takes me 20 minutes by car and 30-35 on my bike, which is much more enjoyable. I am a regular user of the Monon Trail as well.  When you are on your bike, walking or running - you are more connected to your community. I am grateful for the connection opportunity that the bike paths provide and now the Bike Hub Y.”

Besides the Y and BGI, the historic landmark is also home to IndyCog, City Market, and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (Cycle Patrol). The facility is open Monday – Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the Indy Bike Hub YMCA, call 317-685-9705, visit Indy Bike Hub YMCA’s Facebook page or any of the following web sites.

www.OurCauseIsYou.org (go to “Centers” and select the Indy Bike Hub YMCA)
www.indybikehubymca.org – for all general information
www.bgindy.com – for information on the Bicycle Garage Indy store at the Hub
 

The entire staff of Bicycle Garage Indy would like to thank NUVO Magazine readers (and all of Indy!) for voting us the 2012 Best of Indy - Best Local Shopping for Bikes & Bike Gear.

Bicycle Garage Indy has been part of the Indiana bicycling scene  since 1983. Starting from our first store on the North side, and expanding to BGI South in Greenwood and then Downtown in the exciting Indy Bike Hub YMCA in  2011.

With the opening of our new North store in 2012, the staff at BGI continues to strive to offer our customers the best value, selection and  service in bicycles and accessories in Indianapolis and central Indiana.  

To show our appreciation to all friends, fans and cutomers, follow this link for two ways you can save on your next bicycle, clothing or accessory purchase at BGI!

Thank you again for your continued support!

Randy Clark
BGI Founder and President 

 

 

 

 

 

I did not sign up for the RAIN ride until about 2 weeks before the event. I bought my bike at the Bicycle Garage Indy Spring Sale with no serious biking training and started commuting 11.5 miles each way to work every day. On the weekends I would do 30-35 mile rides and worked my way up to a 45 mile ride the week before RAIN. We started of the ride averaging about a 19mph pace until mile 90. At that point I hit a wall and started cramping, getting a headache, and not being able to eat properly. My cramps progressively got worse and my pace dropped off but my riding buddies would not leave me behind. I kept telling them to go on and I would finish on my own but they waited for me every time I needed to stop. I literally fell to the ground at the SAG stops in more pain than I have ever felt with severe cramps.

The last 10 miles we almost unbearable but Todd and Steve kept encouraging me. Our PSV (Personal Sag Vehicle) knew I was in pain so she found a lovely lady to give me a massage at the finish line. Todd relayed this message to me and let me know that I had a hot girl waiting for me at the finish line. It was the perfect testimony to the Biking community as I couldn't have done it alone. Bicycle Garage Indy has been great in getting me the gear I needed and I am excited to train better for next year and finish the race strong!

Name: Michael Ackerman
Bicycle: Giany Defy 1
City: Indianapolis
State: IN

 

Michael:  You have some great friends on and off the bike!  Congratulation on such a great year of riding.  Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story.

 

The east plaza of Indy Bike Hub YMCA and Indianapolis City Market will the site for a bicycle swap meet being organized by the Central indiana Bicycle Association (CIBA) and IndyCog on Saturday August 25.

The event on the east plaza will be open from 1 to 5 PM, and will benefit the both CIBA and IndyCog.   Individuals and commercial vendors can arrange for table space at a very modest cost.  Plan on coming downtown after your morning ride to sell off unwanted bike gear or shop for a rare item you can't live without. 

Watch the cibaride.org or the theindycog.com sites for updates.

For table and rate info contact:

Ron Gurth at vp@cibaride.org; or
Kevin Whited at kevin@theindycog.cog.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bicycle panniers have a lot of features in common with backpacking gear because because of similarities in needs and functions.  And for both bicycle touring and backpacking, you will find proponents for either top-opening or side-opening pack designs. The bags you choose are as much a matter of function as your personal packing style. (I discussed difference between water-resistant and water-proof packs in earlier posts.)  We are currently stocking both types of packs at Bicycle Garage Indy.

Side opening bags with lots of pockets are good for the organizer.  They offer a place for everything with everything its place.  Your front pannier, rear pocket will have your sunscreen, and your rear pannier right pocket will have your headlamp and matches.  You get the idea.  A side opening pack also lends it self well to stuff sacks or zip-lock bags to further sub-divide and organize the gear.  

Side opening bags are also good for easy access to gear during the day.  You can easily stash jackets and arm warmers as the day warms up, and put away the groceries acquired throughout your day of riding. At the end of the day, side opening allows you to quickly find the one the item or bag of items you are looking for, without having to unload everything else in the pack.  Some of our side opening bags include the Arkel models  T-42 ($219.99), XM-28 ($219.99) and T-28 ($169.99).

Top opening bags, with either a roll-up water-proof closure, or a drawcord and flap closure, are best when you are closing your bag once in the morning;  you pack it and forget it. It is also important to pack these bags with a plan, so that items you might need during the day are not under everything else, especially if this is a bag with few pockets.

Some top opening bags may have external pockets, and you can pack the main compartment with things you will not use during the day.  This would typically be the case for your rear panniers, which may have additional gear (tent, sleeping pad, etc.) strapped across the top opening.  In this case access is not issue except when the unexpected comes up.  Our top opening bags include the Arkel Dolphin-48 ($244.99), KoKi Rover II ($149.99) and Bontrager Basic Panniers ($99.99).

So which is best?  Depends on your intended usage.  For the touring bicyclist, I recommend the side opening, with pockets, as the most flexible option.  The organization it imposes saves you a great deal of time in the long run, and that time savings adds to your enjoyment.  The one exception is in extreme touring where a truly water-proof bag is required.  For the commuter, a single opening bag may be just right for quick loading on unloading after each leg of the commute.

Bicycle Garage Indy is now offering TouringWise classes to help you plan and equip for you bicycle adventure.  Learn more at bgindy.com/for/tourwise.

Find a full selection of bicycle packs from Arkel, Bontrager and KoKi bicycle packs at all three Bicycle Garage Indy locations: Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd at 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and the new BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

 

So how is a bicycle pack made to be "water-proof", and how is it different from a water resistant design (see Part 1)?

Packs sold as “water-proof” start with a very water resistant or water proof fabric, and then add additional features to keep water out.  The first step is the use of sealed seams, where a water proof fabric tape is placed over every seam and heat sealed or “welded” to the rest of the fabric.  It will also need similar sealing tape over any pack mounting hardware that comes through the pack fabric.  Finally, the pack must also have have a waterproof closure, either by using water-proof zippers, or a roll-up closure.     

Some of the bicycle packs made in this waterproof design approach the protection offered by a canoe/kayak “dry-bag”, that are designed to protect gear that is at risk of actually be immersed in water.  A road touring cyclist may not need this level of protection, but for off-road mountain bike touring, fording a stream and needing a dry-bag pack is real possibility.

A touring cyclist can make the decision on bag to choose based the climate and and packing style.  If you use stuff sacks and zip-loc bags to organize all your gear, in effect double bagging everything, a water resistant pack and rain cover is likely to be adequate for all but the most extreme wet weather locales. And if you tour with a true water-proof bag, you must still make provisions to keep damp and dry items seperately bagged.

For the commuter, a water proof bag with a roll-top closure offers an easy way to keep clothing and office gear dry, up to and including a laptop, without the need for double bagging contents or stopping to pull out a rain cover.  However, keep in mind that a waterproof bag keeps moisture in; and a damp towel sealed in a water-proof pack for the ride home can damage your office papers and electronics just as much as a rain shower.  

So the best descision is base on your type of travel, and you like to organize.  In part 3, I will talk about the difference on bag openings, and how to choose what is right for you.

 

A roll-up closure is the most most water-proof.

Bicycle Garage Indy is now offering TouringWise classes to help you plan and equip for you bicycle adventure.  Learn more at bgindy.com/for/tourwise.

Find a full selection of bicycle packs from Arkel, Bontrager and KoKi bicycle packs at all three Bicycle Garage Indy locations: Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd at 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and the new BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

 

What is the difference between a bike pack that is “water resistant” versus one that is “water proof”?   Ride often enough, and you will get caught in the rain.  That is just a fact of cycling life.  If you are participating in multi-day rides and tours, or regularly bicycle commuting to work, dealing with rain is a certainty.  Keeping yourself dry is complete topic by itself.  But what about the gear you carry on your bike in rack trunks, panniers and handlebar bags?  

Most nylon fabrics used in bicycle packs have an internal coating that is water resistant.  This coating that holds a nylon fabric together will also keep items inside dry through the occasional shower  However, this water resistance is compromised where the bag is sewn together.   Also, the outer fabric layer can still get wet, and gradually soak through the internal coating and sewn seams.  So most fabric manufacturers will add a external fabric coating (Scotchguard or similar products) that repels water and also prevents stains.   Water will bead up and run off the pack, slowing down the process of soaking through.   You can also improve water resistance with design features like flaps over zippers, (or using water resistant zippers) and seam placement. 

When there are multiple pockets and zippers on a pack, the only way to completely keep water out is with an accessory rain cover.  The rain cover will typically fit around and over the pack like a shower cap, will have as few seams as necessary, and may include a drain at the bottom. Rain covers are usually very light fabrics, and intended to be used only has needed.  This will keep the rain cover from loosing both its external and internal coatings (and water resistance) from daily wear and exposure to sunlight. 

So by combining a water resistant fabric, good design and and another layer of water proof protection, the end result is a water resistant pack system.  

Next, I will  talk about water-proof packs

Bicycle Garage Indy is now offering Tourwise one-on-one classes to help you plan and equip for you bicycle adventure.  Learn more at bgindy.com/for/tourwise.

Find a full selection of bicycle packs from Arkel, Bontrager and KoKi bicycle packs at all three Bicycle Garage Indy locations: Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, Dean Rd at 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and the new BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

 

 

Did you get a new bicycle this spring?  Or perhaps return to cycling after a long absence?  I had the pleasure of working with a lot of folks last summer, who were relatively new to the sport of cycling.  And the one consistent problem which I observed was that many folks were hesitant to use their gears.  They pretty much chose one gear and never moved away from it.  Is this a problem?

For an afternoon toodle through a flat neighborhood, maybe not.  But as soon as you venture out into any terrain changes at all, you really do need to use those gears.  The gearing was designed to maximize your efficiency, speed and comfort.  So I challenge you to go out on a flat ride and play with the gearing.  Shift through the full range of gears, both on the front sprocket and back. Get comfortable with the shifting process and learn what the different gears feel like.  Then when you head out onto a hillier course, you will feel prepared to shift and to shift appropriately.

Let me share a couple of pointers to help you out.

When we were planning our family, we knew we wanted our kids to be a part of our bicycling.  And even in the early `90’s, the first name in child trailers was Burley.  Our Burley D’Lite was used first for Tyler, and a few years later his brother Justin.  It was pulled behind our tandems and road bikes, for shorts rides to market, day long adventures, and even extended trips, including a week long tour in the San Juan Islands when Tyler was just shy of 2-years old.  When Justin joined us, we even did a few weekend camping trips with all four of us.

In the years since, Burley has added more models, and added innovative safety and comfort features that we had to improvise.  The entry level Bee ($279) trailer is the closest to our 1990’s D'Lite, with a simple nylon seat  for one or two children, behind the seat storage for day trips and shopping, and an integrated mesh wind screen and rain cover.  Burley's now expanded line up includes the Burley Honey Bee ($399, with stroller wheel) and Encore ($439), both offer padded, 4-point safety belts, screen and rain cover, and accept other options like infant snugglers, a jogging stroller wheel kit, and even a snow ski kit.  All Burley trailers have easily removed wheels, and are collapsible to fit in a car or for off-season storage.

Once our boys were pedaling on their own, we passed our D’Lite on to another family (they hold their resale value quite well!).  But we weren’t through with Burley trailers.  We switched over to a Burley Nomad cargo trailer ($349). The narrower, low profile Nomad weighs just 15 lbs, and with a 100 lb. capacity is great for grocery trips, hauling folding camp chairs for an evening of fireworks, or for all our gear for camp touring with a tandem.

 

 

You will find a full selection of Burley trailers and accessories at the exciting new Bicycle Garage Indy North (just a few feet away from our old location at Dean Rd and E. 82nd St., Indianapolis) or Bicycle Garage Indy South (just seconds west of I65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood.)  

Just a few weeks remain in 2011 for charitable giving. December is a time of giving, and I hope you will give something to support bicycling this year. Below are listed five opportunities in which I am personally involved. All are deserving of your financial support and all provide you with a tax deduct for your generosity.

Shifting Gears is a cooperative program between BGI, the IN Dept. of Correction, & the Indiana chapter of Volunteers of America (VoA). The program collects, refurbishes, then donates bicycles to those in need. This program is win-win-win proposition: A) INDOC's offenders learn critical jobs skills, B) Refurbished bikes go to persons in need, & C) You receive a tax deduction. Click here to learn more about the Shifting Gears Program.

There are two ways to give: #1) Donate old bikes at BGI retail locations. #2) Donate money to Shifting Gears through our local VoA Chapter. Cash donations insure that the Shifting Gears program can purchase critical supplies that can't be harvested from donated bikes, such as: new cables, chains, lubes, & solvents. Go here to make a cash donation to Shifting Gears.

I sit on the Board of the Bicycle Indiana (formerly Indiana Bicycle Coalition) and find it to be the best future hope to unite all cyclists in Indiana for the purpose of making Indiana a better and safer place to bicycle. We need more membership as well as direct contributions to support our programs. The organization recently got approval to have license plates to support the organization - a new way to support bicycling in Indiana and show your support of bicycling. Go here to join and/or contribute to BI

Although IndyCOG may be the newest group in this list, they have made a huge impact: doing the legwork, petition drive and research that has been instrumental in getting hours on the Monon extended this winter. In addition, they've organized bicycle awareness events such as Indianapolis Bike to Work Day, and Two Wheels, One City. With their home base at the Indy Bike Hub YMCA, they are poised to do even greater things in the near future."

The guys and gals of HMBA are the most energetic and productive group I know! They have changed the face of Indiana with respect to the venues available to mountain bikers including Town Run Park, O'Bannon Woods and the nationally recognized trails in Brown County State Park, designated this year as an Epic Trail by International Mountain Bike Association. Help HMBA keep their momentum with your membership or donation. Visit http://www.HMBA.org to learn more.

I have been on the Board of the Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA) Foundation for many years. The Foundation was started by the Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA) for the purpose of providing its members and all Indiana cyclists a method for giving back to the cycling community. Since 1996, the CIBA Foundation has granted over $257,000 to the Indiana cycling community. Go here to donate to the CIBA Foundation.

You can vist the page End of Year Giving 2011 on the BGI website to read about the recent successes & missions of these five deserving Indiana organizations.

Randy Clark
Founder and Owner
Bicycle Garage Indy / BGI Fitness

Are you are looking for a surpise gift for the bicyclist on your list? Or you just need a stocking stuffer? There are plenty of great small items at  Bicycle Garage Indy that are useful to any rider and easy on the wallet. 



Socks:  Stuff their stocking with a pair of cycling socks, starting at $5.99.  We have many styles from Pearl Izumi, Smart Wool and Louis Garneau.  

Bicycle Multi-tools: Always a good choice, especially if your special someone is shuffling gear between two bikes. There are tools for the road or off-road rider, from simple allen wrenches to a complete "tool box " in your palm.  We have multi-tools from Park, Serfas, Bontrager, Giant and Crank Brothers, starting at $9.99.

Seat Bags:  A seat bag is a great place to stash a spare tube, tire levers, tools, a snack and ID. They are also a good gift for a new rider.  Starting at $19.99, we bags from Bontrager, Giant, KoKi and Arkell.

CO2 Inflator:  These take the pumping out of a flat tire.  Very popular for off-road riders and tri-athletes.  Starting at just $19.99 from Genuine Innovations.

Bells:  For riding busy urban trails, or even large group rides, a bell is just part of bicycle fun.  Bicycle Garage Indy has bells starting at $6.99, and we even have horns for young (or young at heart!) riders.

Bottles and Cages: These are always a can't fail choice.  The CamelBak Podium Chill bottles will keep a drink cool for a couple of hours, or the CamelBak Better Bottle, for a leak proof bottle for the car or office. CamelBak bottles start at $7.99. And we have the Bontrager RL Bottle Cage starting at just $15.99.


Bicycle Garage Indy now has three locations for your holiday shopping; Bicycle Garage Indy North (Indianapolis, in the Clearwater area on 82nd St.),  South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), and the new BGI Downtown, in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at City Market.

Visit our newest locaton, Bicycle Garage Indy Downtown, during November for your chance to win in four weekly prize drawings. To enter, drop by BGI Downtown in the Indy Bike Hub YMCA at Indianapolis City Market, no purchase required.  

Bicycle commuting in the fall and winter can be challenging, but the right gear can make all the difference.  So during November, Bicycle Garage Indy Downtown is giving away some great gear from Tifosi, Koki and Showers Pass to help make your ride easier.

Visit Bicycle Garage Indy Downtown at 222 E. Market, Suite E-101, Indianapolis, IN 46204 to enter.  Only in-store entries at BGI Downtown are eligible. No online entries allowed. No entries at other Bicycle Garage Indy locations allowed.