Bike Path Indianapolis

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
 

Ever since last year, my husband and I have been cruising around all of Indy. We’ve explored the Monon Trail, biked from downtown to Carmel and believe it or not from Greenwood to my parents house in Castleton. We are loving it! We can’t wait to explore the new paths constructed this winter on the Indianapolis Cultural trail. I must say, it is my favorite! You can just ride anywhere in downtown Indianapolis now! What a wonderful city. Last year, was my first official ride. The Hope Ride in Hope, Indiana. It was amazing. We did the 62 mile route. This year I am going for the 100 miles! I “hope” I make it.  Can’t wait!

Name: Chelsea Davis
Bicycle: Felt
City: Indianapolis
State: IN
 

 

Chelsea:  Good luck with your first century, it sounds like you are off to a good start!  Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story.

With the weather consistently hitting record temperatures throughout the last month I have found riding at or near dusk is the ideal time to get in some miles. We recently relocated to the Noblesville Area and I have enjoyed taking advantage of all the greenways and bike paths available in Hamilton County. The attached picture is the historic iron truss bridge crossing White River near downtown Noblesville.

Name: Dustin McKee
Bicycle: Cannondale Optimo
City: Noblesville
State: Indiana

Dustin: We have all had try new places and timess to ride during the recent heat wave. Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story.

I told you about basic bicycle rain gear options of waterproof shells from Louis Garneau and O2 available from Bicycle Garage Indy in Bicycle Rain Gear Basic, part 1. These are effective and economic choices for the fair weather rider. The rider looking for rain gear for long training rides and tours, or for four-season riding, is going to want the features that come in more technical gear.  

These "technical" jackets and shells combine breathable fabrics with a variety of vents and other features that allow you to adjust for changing riding conditions. They are made with fabrics that will meet the lightweight packability needs of the sport rider, or the durability needs of the regular bicycle commuter or long distance touring rider.

Typical features of technical bicycle rain gear may include a vented back, with a covered mesh panel,  a zipper or mesh opening along the arm and arm pit, zipper storm flaps and/or water resistant zippers, adjustable wrist openings, a cycling cut waist line, and an adjustable collar. Some will have an attached or removable hood.

The primary difference in these jackets is the packed size and overall ruggedness. Some fabrics will allow for a lightweight or even "ultra-light" jacket that will fit into a jersey pocket. The heavier fabrics that will hold up to daily commuting and long distance touring will need to go into a rack trunk or pannier once they are stripped off.

Bicycle Garage Indy's light-weight offerings include the Showers Pass Club Pro ($109.99) and Double Century ($124.99).  Both are designed for full weather protection that will fit in a jersey pocket. Another packable jacket is the Gore Bike Wear Path Jacket ($199.99).   Along with functioning as rain gear, these jackets are also serve well as spring and fall shells in cool weather.

I will cover the  commuter and touring oriented rain gear, and my first 600 miles with a Showers Pass Elite 2.0, in part 3 of this series.

Showers Pass, Gore Bike Wear and Louis Garneau are just a few of the brands of bicycle clothing you will find at either Bicycle Garage Indy location, North (Indianapolis, in the Clearwater area on 82nd St.) and South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood).

I have always enjoyed the magic of riding a bike; from my first “stingray” to my current 14 speed Trek. I’m a pretty average cyclist, which means I like to ride as fast as my spindly legs will take me with my buddies on Saturday’s, my church ride on Sunday’s and occasionally a week day evening ride. And yes, I participate in a fantasy Tour deFrance league during that epic race.

However, it wasn’t until I hooked up with group of commuter’s did I realize a whole new world of real bicyclist. This group takes biking to a different level to what I traditionally associated with biking. Where wet, cold and dark are reasons for cancellation of my other rides. These items are simply things to be overcome by the hardy bike commuter. Where my “roadie buds” seek routes further and further out in the country to avoid auto/bike contact; the commuter is forced to safely, and hopefully peaceably interact with ever more automobile congestion.

Unfortunately, my job requires for me to utilize my personal car to travel around town to call on clients and project sites which leaves only a few special days per year for a “full commute” from Carmel to Indianapolis. However, those commutes have shown the many benefits of bicycle work commuting: 1) you just feel better, awake and alive all day, 2) you’re the talk and the secret envy of many of your co-workers, 3) you become more efficient at your job, because you know you need to leave on time, 4) and most important to me is biking to work adds a little adventure in my life. Hey, I’m 56 married and living in the suburbs with 3 grown children. For many people that defines boring, but a bike commute adds new spice to the day, adventure, exploration, danger :)! When was the last time you had that in your life?

One commuting day I make sure to ride is the National Bike to Work Day. It is great fun to head into town with full peloton of fellow riders, veteran commuters, racers and first time rookies. We then all meet at the Monument Circle in downtown Indy, maybe win some swag, hear fellow cyclist Mayor Ballard speak while eating free food from gracious sponsors. You never know you will see on a bike such as me with Indy car driver, Vitor Meira, in his fine ZIPP kit. I look faster just standing by him.

This ride is in May and in Indy that means racing. Additionally, for the past 3 years BTWD is also my industries “Day at the Track”. So from the Circle it is peddling off to Speedway and the annual hassle with the infamous Yellow Shirts who are most confused about a bicycle, then lunch at the Speedway Motel. Ah, an afternoon of cold cars, hot beer and fast women, or something like that. At the day’s Happy Hour end, it is time to put on the gear and saddle up for the ride home. When zipping past all the stalled cars while riding on the Canal Tow path to Broad Ripple I think what a great day, what a great adventure.

It is time for your bike commute, YOUR adventure.

Name: Eric Carleton
Bicycle: Trek 2200
City: Carmel
State: IN


Eric, Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story. Many us from BGI will look forward to seeing and riding on the 2011 Bike To Work Day in Indianapolis.

If you like to people watch, a great place to go are the trails in and around Indianapolis. Walk, bike, run or rollerblade – you can do it all on these trails. Just keep in mind these simple rules of etiquette so that we can all share the trail amicably.

Stay on the right side, except to pass. When ready to pass, first check over your left shoulder. A gentle ringing of a handle bar mounted bell, like the Mirrycle Incredibell Big Brass, ($9.99 at Bicycle Garage Indy) or stating “on your left” provides the overtaken walker warning of your passing. (It is easy for us bikers to forget that we can “spook” the walkers when we go whizzing around!).

If you plan to stop, always use a hand signal and/or audible warning, such as “slowing or stopping”. You never know if you have another bicyclist flying up on you just as you are stopping!  

And of course, once you come to a stop, please be courteous and promptly exit the trail. This is particularly important during our first gorgeous spring weekends, when the trails are especially crowded.

And finally a word of warning to my fellow bikers – be particularly wary of the little tykes (children) moving along the trail. You never know where they are going next, so keep close to those brakes. Children will abruptly stop, turn or dart right into your path (as will some adults as well!). So be on high alert in their presence. And enjoy your trail riding!

During Bicycle Garage Indy's 28th Annual Spring Bicycle Expo, you will save 15% on all new spring bicycle clothing. And you also save 15% on all clearance priced clothing, for savings up to 50%.  This is your chance to get some great deals on Gore Bike Wear at BGI. Did you know that Gore is Europe's largest supplier of cycling clothing?

If you are looking for a glove for your cool spring morning training rides, Gore's Mistral Gloves $42.49 for Expo (reg. price $49.99) provide excellent wind protection. Gore's flexible, breathable Windstopper softshell keeps wind and water out, while the foam-padded palms enhance your comfort.

Or for warm weather try a pair of Countdown Summer Gloves for $33.99 during Expo (reg. price $39.99). They feature foam and gel padding to keep you comfortable and durable, silicone-coated palms for a great grip and control.


If you looking for outerwear, on our clearance rack you will find limited quantities & sizes of Gore's Power Lady Jacket and Gore's Path Jacket.  These are both packable, lightweight jackets for the rider who isn't intimidated by the weather.  

These are just few of the Gore Bike Wear items you will find at BGI. And along with savings on all clothing during our Expo, every bicycle is on sale, with over 1,000 bikes on display.  

Bicycle Garage Indy's Spring Bicycle Expo runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday (March 18, 19 & 20, 2011), at both of Bicycle Garage Indy’s two locations, North (Indianapolis, in the Clearwater area on 82nd St.) and South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood).

Some years ago I was working at a summer job that required my riding home through the streets of downtown Omaha between 1:00 and 2:00 A.M. This also coincided with the time the bars closed.

It was a hot summer night, and riding without a headlight on my old (read: heavy...39 lbs off the shelf) Schwinn Varsity Sport, I could never resist the urge to crank it into high gear and fly down the big hill on 30th street. At 40 mph or more, the humidity recedes from memory, and I am screaming down an Alpine switchback trying to put time into an imaginary pursuit.

A traffic light at the bottom of the hill snaps me back to the present, but it is green and there is only a pedestrian waiting there, who has just come out from Boozer's tavern. I keep the pedals churning, but at the last second, the inebriated pedestrian steps off the curb and into my path. I lock it up, but hit her full force, knock her to the pavement as I go flying over the handlebars, and it is a minute before I can collect myself to survey the damage.

Out of nowhere a car screams to a stop, and a giant of a man, even larger than the woman now sprawled in the street, jumps out. He yelled some obscenities at the woman, jerked her to her feet and threw her into the car in one motion, and sped off into the night.
I was left with a bent rim,spokes, broken brake, cables, levers, derailleur, and more bruises and scrapes than I could count. As I limped and carried my bike back to the apartment through not-so-nice area of town I was left to contemplate what that woman felt like when she awakened the next morning.

I can only surmise that every time she tells the story of our late night encounter she is met with as much disbelief as if she were hit by a pink elephant. I, on the other hand have a story I can regale fellow cyclists for years to come.

Name: Greg Collins
Bicycle: Schwinn Varsity Sport
City: Indianapolis
State: Indiana

I like to bike I don’t bike a lot just for pleasure. Rather, I bike mostly for a practical purpose – to get to work. Since my family and I live on the southeast side of Indy and I work in Carmel it’s a bit of a long ride. I could take the Monon but this would be far too easy – and it would add a mile or so to the trip. Consequently, I take the slightly shorter and faster path – through Fountain Square, downtown Indy, the near north side, Broad Ripple and finally Carmel. Much of my riding is near the curbs of busy roads, where shards of glass from broken bottles and shrapnel from steel belted radials collect. Consequently I have had more flat tires than I can count, but the bulletproof  Continental Gatorskin tires I have now have improved that some.

One of the more unusual things that happened though was an evening that I rode up behind what I believe was a lady of the night. She was walking along the side of the street in the same direction I was riding. Traffic was heavy so I could not give her as much room as I would have liked as I passed. In the 10 seconds I had to ponder the situation I could not come up with a plan that would avoid startling her. I could yell loud enough for her to hear me over the traffic before I passed her or I could simply pass her and hope for the best. Either way she was going to be startled. I chose to simply pass her. As I did, she screamed loud enough that she scared me as much as I scared her and I darn near crashed. At least my Gatorskins held up though, and she opted to move over to the sidewalk.

Name: John Hall
Bicycle: Specialized Sequoia
City: Indianapolis
State: Indiana


John, Thanks from everyone at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle picture and story.  Nice to know the Gatorskins are keeping you safely moving past any hazard, and maybe with some help from your friends, you can win another set.

Name: Ron Fife
Bicycle: 1969 Murray Road Bike
City: Noblesville
State: IN

Ron, Thanks from everyone from at Bicycle Garage Indy for sharing Your Bicycle Story.  And, we all hope you continue to enjoy your return to cycling with a bit less excitement.

It is time to get ready for 2011 bikes - yes, 2011, and Bicycle Garage Indy has to start marking down our remaining stock of 2010 bikes.  Here are pictures and links to two of the Giant bikes we have already marked down.  Supplies are limited; some of these are the last of a size and model for 2010.   More are are listed on the Bicycle Garage Indy web site here.

Hello Friends!

Well, technically my section of the blog is supposed to cover both touring and bike commuting Indianapolis. I obviously haven't done any coverage of commuting, so I thought I'd start with a couple pieces of gear that I like. 

If you've read my posts regarding my tour last summer of the Great Allegheny Passage and C & O Towpath, you know I have a Trek 7.3 hybrid bike. I originally purchased this bike for commuting and have logged some pretty good miles on it doing exactly that. My ride from home to Butler (I'm a grad-student) is about 9 miles one way. I use a combination of surface streets, bike paths, and bike lanes to make the journey. All are paved. In reading one of my new favorite mags, Bicycle Times, I saw a handlebar that caught my attention. I did a little research, and found out it's the Jeff Jones "H-Bar." The original is titanium and retails for about $400, but Titec makes a licensed knock-off for about a quarter of that price.

Here's a picture of the Titec version on my 7.3:


As you can see, there are a variety of options for hand positions, and places to mount lotsa stuff. I have a NiteRider headlight on top of the bar, Blackburn Voyager 3.3 mounted underneath (I use it in flashing mode), Trek Beacon Bar End Lights, a bell, and of course shift/brake levers. Like most bars, it doesn't come with any tape or grips. Taking the lead from the Jeff Jones website, I installed black cork grips and black cork handlebar tape. It is super comfy. The width is great for rough roads, climbing, or cruising upright, but the extensions are great for getting a little aero (when I'm late for class!)


This bar is for a pretty niche market, so we don't keep them in stock, but we are happy to order it for you and can have it within a week's time. Labor to install a new handlebar and move all the stuff over is only about $30, but sometimes there is a need for new, longer cables depending on your old setup. That can run an additional $20.

I hope these tips help you in your commuting adventures. Stay safe out there folks...the drivers are not yet used to looking for us (are they ever?) Remember to stop in to BGI for more tips, service on your bike, or critical commuting gear such as lights, fenders, etc.

And always remember: A clean bike is a happy bike!

bc
(NiteRider, Bontrager and Blackburn are just three of the many brands of Bike Accessories Indianapolis found at Bicycle Garage Indy’s two locations, North (Clearwater area in Indianapolis) and South (just west of I-65 on County Line Rd, Greenwood), editor)

When I discussed the idea of blogging about my little adventure on the BGI blog, one of my suggestions was that I could use the trip as a short, intensive field test on some of the gear, and to offer some tips and suggestions for riders who might be considering such a ride. So, here goes....

The good news is, nothing broke. There was no single piece of gear that I was disappointed with, nor did anything fail, crack, bend, pop, fizzle, or die. The even better news is that there really isn't any bad news about this trip from any perspective. All of my gear, both cycling and camping, performed up to and beyond expectations. I do have many thoughts on some items that worked particularly well, and some that might need further consideration before you take them on your own touring adventure. Here are some of the surprises....

First and foremost, the bike. I rode a 2008 Trek 7.3 FX hybrid. As I believe I mentioned, I was a bit hesitant to take a $550 bike path bike on a 350 mile offroad (albeit lightly so) loaded tour. I own a perfectly good Trek 520 Loaded Touring rig that is designed for the load, but it really isn't designed for the dirt, so I left it at home. My chief concerns with the 7.3 were the wheels and front lowrider rack mount. I carried six extra spokes and nipples, just in case, as well as all the tools to replace both drive-side and non spokes. I figured that if they didn't immediately taco under the stress in Pittsburgh I would be okay, and I was right. I held my breath when I put everything on the bike, waited for the wheels to self-destruct, but they never did. I still don't need to true them! I will mention that we've had a couple issues at the shop with Bontrager wheels, but that Trek has always stood behind them and fulfilled their end of the bargain on the 5 year warranty that those wheels come with, but knowing that they passed this test is a HUGE testament to their durability.

One reason I purchased the 7.3 in the first place was because it has holes drilled in the fork for a front rack, and I already had this trip in the back of my mind. I used my old old old Blackburn front Lorider rack and, for the most part, it held up pretty well. I had to use some spacers to mount it, and nothing ever failed, but as far as actually being a good setup for this particular trip, I don't recommend it. My old (also circa 1998) Trek panniers are sagging a bit, and there were many sections that I wasn't sure they were going to allow me enough clearance. Even in some of the corners I had to be careful as the bottoms scraped before I reached the apex of the turn. In some of the more overgrown or rocky sections I had to not only steer my wheels through the obstacles, but also account for the only 3-4" of ground clearance that the bags provided. Carrying the front load higher is highly recommended.

Only two other issues with the bike. First, the gearing. Again for a flat ride, it was fine, but when I attempted the 2 mile 10% grade off the trail towards Fallingwater the gearing was too high. Okay okay, my legs were not up  to snuff and I was carring a huge load, but a lower granny would be essential for a tour with even moderately rolling hills. Second, fenders are a must on these trails. Even with a week of dry weather, my bike looks like I've been rolling it around in loose dirt for a month. My bags are completely dusty and my legs were always a mess at the end of the day. That was WITH fenders!



But, anyway, the 7.3 proved sturdy, reliable, comfortable, and reasonably nimble. It does not carry the front load as well as a 520, for example, and where I could easily descend a mountain at 35+ on a loaded 520, I scrubbed speed at 30 mph on the 7.3 because the front started to feel sketchy. I also use the 7.3 extensively for commuting and to pull my six year old on her Tagalong, and it handles those tasks with great ease.

A major surprise to me was a pretty small one, but it was my G30 lenses on my Oakley Half Jackets. The route routinely goes in and out of the shade, and there are rocks and ruts that like to hide behind the shadows. Normally I reserve these lenses for overcast days, but they were the perfect choice for rapidly changing conditions. As I neared the end and was out of shade, I switched to the darkest Black Iridium lenses.

My Continental Tour Ride 700x32c tires were very very good. I never had a flat tire, and it protected the rim and spokes from dangers along the trail. That said, I was blessed with dry weather for the entire journey. Had it rained, I would have been completely miserable in many ways, the chief one being the performance of my relatively narrow tires on the C & O Towpath. Even though it had been over a week since rain fell, there were numerous spots on the trail that were still wet that I was able to steer around. If I had to ride through them, they grabbed my tires and sucked them down quickly. Eddie, of Alison and Eddie from Ann Arbor that I met on day 1, was riding a Haro 29er and pulling a BOB trailer, which would be the ideal setup for a messy day on the trail. So, good tires, in good conditions, but this trail begs for something wider in bad conditions.

The only other major piece of equipment that should be mentioned is my Garmin 705 computer. If you are unfamiliar with it, it's a hi-zoot gps, hrm, bike computer, routing tool, etc. I will provide a full review of this product in a future blog post, but wanted to put a little blurb in here. In short, it worked very well. The biggest fault of this device for a trip like this is it's sole power source, which is a built-in rechargable battery that is only rechargable with an AC charger with mini USB output. By the third day I was literally searching for outlets at every single stop so I could put a little juice in it. As it turned out, I only fell really behind it once, and lost the final 4 miles heading into Hancock on day four. It generates some AMAZING data that you can upload to your PC, and the routing features are fantastic. I even used it to help me find Fallingwater. I searched for the attraction, told it to navigate me to it, and said GO.



Other pieces of equipment that performed well were my new Axiom rear panniers and my small Detours handlebar bag. For camping equipment I rely on my MSR Whisperlite Internationale stove, which I've used for about 12 years, an MSR water filter, The Northface Bullfrog tent (also more than 10 years old) and a TNF Cat's Meow sleeping bag. It all performed flawlessly.

My next blog entry will be about the stats...routes, mileage, etc. Stay tuned so you can see what the Garmin can do! Until then, keep the rubber side down.

bc

 Today turned out to be a really beautiful day in many ways. From the gun, however, it was a steady climb for 20 miles. Granted, it was only a 1-2% grade, but with a loaded bike, and no downhill relief at all, climbing for 2 + hours really is taxing. After the long uphill, I finally reached the Eastern Continental Divide, then Big Savage Tunnel (super cool!) and started downhill. 

The descent is certainly a relief, but it was not a completely easy ride, as I did have to keep the pedals turning to ride 16-17 mph on the rough trail surface. I stopped in Frostburg, about 15 miles down the hill, for lunch. There's a really great little switchback system for hikers and bikers, so instead of riding up to the cafe at a 15% grade, the max is only 4. I had a nice lunch at the cafe, and while finishing up, the Western Maryland Scenic Railway rolled in. It's a great steam engine that pulls old timey passenger cars from Cumberland up to Frostburg and back. So, I had the good fortune of watching the WMSR spin around on the turntable before I headed on down the hill.
 
I headed on down the hill into Cumberland, stopping along the way to take a picture or two. Cumberland is a lovely town...not big, but the largest along the route. I stopped to refill my bottles and swing into a grocery store for some ingredients, then headed on down the path to start the C&O Towpath. 

The Towpath is a completely different trail. While the majority of today was spent along beautiful rivers, winding up and down scenic grades of mountains, and watching old trains go by, the canal, as it is today, is mostly standing water with lots and lots of algae, and the trail itself is overgrown a big, bumpy, and really more of an easy mountain bike fire road than a bike path. Regardless, it was an enjoyable ride, and I tried out the first of the "hiker biker" campsites at Purslane Run. In total, it was a 73 mile day, but about 20 of it was downhill. I leave the post with a great shot of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad comin' right at you!

bc

Meet my daughter, Kaia, age 18 months.



One of the great things about being a father is that you now have a reason to explore a whole new world of bike accessories.  For example, there's my new BabyJogger Switchback, which I'm very excited about.  It can be used as a jogging stroller, a bike trailer, and cargo hauler!

Kaia loves being outside, so much so that you can't say the word aloud without having her grab her coat, run to the front door, and scream bloody murder if she's not instantly turned loose.  I'm hoping that I can use some of the bike paths outside my Indianapolis neighborhood to do some safe, fun cruising. 

Kaia tends to nap for 2-3 hours each afternoon.  If she loves the trailer, that could be a great thing for daddy's fitness.

Don't forget that children in a trailer should wear a bike helmet.

Once the rain goes away, I'll have a full report, and some more cuteness.

Safety Second.

This title can lead to so many thoughts... but for now, it's because I'm thinking about helmets.  Over the past few days I've been riding on the Monon Trail, the first of Indianapolis' bike paths, and was simply stunned at the low percentage of riders wearing bicycle helmets. 

It doesn't take much to "ring your bell," and the downside risks are enormous.  All  you have to do is catch your wheel in a rut, slip in some gravel, or have a moment of inattention, and...  Oops!

Why not wear a bike helmet, Indianapolis? 

• Too fashion conscious to be seen in one?
• Can't find it?
• Just going around the block?
• None of the cool kids wear helmets?
• It's too hot?
• It doesn't fit right?

The responses to these objections are sooooo simple that they don't even bear repetition...  --You already know them. Please please please, don't slack on this!  Do you wear a seatbelt in the car? Then by all means wear a helmet when you ride a bike!  Ridership is increasing, and incidence of bike accidents will inevitably increase, too. Please don't become a statistic!

Drop by Bicycle Garage Indy and take a look at our wide variety of helmets.  From infants to triathletes, we have helmets to fit the head AND the budget.  My favorite is the Bell Influx.  It's a mid-priced helmet that offers the versatility I need to use it for mountain bike riding, road bike training, and neighborhood jaunts.  Let us help you find the perfect helmet for your uses!

It just takes a second to be safe.

I must confess, I had 3 great rides this past weekend but toward the end of that last day I was getting some tired legs.  

So I was wondering if you all knew we have started our rides yet. We have been taking the road bikes out for about 4 weeks now. Training rides now are whats going to get you through the Bicycle season in fine fashion.

So if you ride bike paths, bike trails or are on the road, keep riding.

 This Saturday, Kathy and I had a fantastic 30 mile ride stopping midway for coffee at Strange Brew in Greenwood.  Rolling hills, not-so-bad traffic, great company (I love riding with my bride to be), and perfect weather made this the best ride so far this year.  We felt so good that we even pushed the pace a bit and ended with an average speed of nearly 12.5 mph!


Bike rides Indianapolis, bike route Indianapolis, bicycle Indianapolis, cycling Indianapolis, Indianapolis greenways, Indianapolis bike path 

 Today's bike repair tip: Check your tires

It's common for today's high performance tires to pick up small rocks and glass as you ride.  Try as hard as you can, you just can't avoid it all!  This is true whether you're cycling Indianapolis bike paths like the Monon Trail, commuting Indianapolis roads, or just cruising around the block. 
Once or twice a week, inspect your tires carefully for small items lodged in the rubber.  Even tiny pieces of rock can work their way through to your tube eventually causing a flat.  When you find something stuck in the tread, carefully pick it out with a toothpick or small screwdriver - just be careful not to push it through the tire casing. 
To help prevent flats caused by  small rocks and glass, I recommend using a tire liner like these: http://bgindy.com/page.cfm?PageID=225&action=list&Category=702&Brand=710&type=T
Tire liners are designed for your bicyle fitting between your tire and tube to keep small bits from poking holes in your tube.

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