Bicycle clothing for Indianapolis' quirky spring weather is a tricky proposition. I love this jacket because its sleeves zip off and it becomes a vest. It's "warm enough" when I start off in cool morning air, and "cool enough" as the sun comes up. Plus, when the day finally warms up, it packs small enough to stuff into your jersey pocket.
Whether you're riding Indianapolis greenways, commuting, training, or enjoying the network of mountain bike trails in our parks, good cycling gear is well worth the investment.
The jacket I have is the Pearl Izumi Vagabond, but we have a variety in our clothing department. Come check them out!
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: Oil your chain
Lubricating your chain will make your drivetrain last longer, shift better, and make less noise. Many chain lubes are available - some are better for Indiana mountain bike trails, some are better for road riding (like the Indianapolis Greenways). I prefer Finish Line brand chain lubes. My favorite is their Pro Road lube. You can see it (or even purchase it) here:
http://bgindy.com/page.cfm?PageID=225&action=details&sku=LU2532
It's easy to do! Start by wiping all the old crud off your chain by holding a rag over the chain while you pedal backwards. Then all you need to do is drip the lubricant on your chain. Let it soak in for a minute and wipe off any excess. You're all done! Much cleaner and sqeak free!
Check back often for more bike repair Indianapolis!
Triathlons are increasing in popularity. I am seeing more and more of them riding and running around. Strong riders too. I had some motor pas me on an Indianapolis Greenway the other day. heads down, gears high, they pulled away and left me in their dust.
I have also found that most Triathletes are serious about their bike accessories. They have all the newest bike gear in Indianapolis too. everything from hydration to bike racks.
Their bikes are cool too. Trek Bicycles makes a very notable tri-bike, the Equinox TTX9.0
That bike just screams fast. I am sure you will see several of these out on the roads at the Muncie Endurathon.
Why a triathlon specific bike? Well it is just the best bicycle tool for the job. Road bikes will work, but if you are trying to keep up with the Jones and they are on one of these..well you get the picture!
Paris Roubaix is often called the Queen of the Classics. Why, because it is the most famous and prestigious of all the spring classics. It is long, rough and as hard as it gets. This bicycle race starts most cyclist's blood flowing. I often find my self dreaming as I ride over Indiana famous chip and seal, that I am riding Roubaix.
I know no bicycle tour in Indianapolis, would compare to Roubaix, but don't let that stop you from getting out on the road. Hit the bike paths in Indianapolis. Put together a urban Roubaix linking Indianapolis Greenways together with rough back roads. Schedule an gentleman's race over the Indianapolis bike paths.
What ever is your speed, take it to the paths.
That's one of the most common questions I hear in the shop: is this more bike than I need? And the answer is: Probably yes. Do you
need a bike this nice to ride on one of the Indianapolis greenways or bike paths? Or to do your race training? Or to do some commuting, to bike to work? No, you probably don't need it.
However, when you spend more money, you get better cycling gear. Do you need a Lexus to get to work, when a Camry would do the job just as well? For that matter, do you need a Camry? Wouldn't a Kia do the same basic job? Of course it would. But the better car will, work better, last longer, and you will enjoy it more. Same with the bike.
Do you
need a steak, when you could accomplish the same nutritional goal with some soy powder and an iron supplement?
I found myself considering this same question when I decided to buy this bike:
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/madone/madone65proI felt a lot of guilt about it until I got the first few rides in. Do I really need it? Nope. But I'm glad I have it. Just one more reason to ride more often.
Next year, I might go all the way to filet mignon:
http://www.serotta.com/hsg_carbon/index.html
The weather may still be a little iffy but make no mistake, spring is here. Are you looking for a new bike route in Indianapolis? Do you like riding the Indianapolis greenways? Come on in and talk with our experts for advice and help with your cycling needs. Hours are 10am to 8pm monday through saturday and 12pm to 5pm on sunday.
see you there
Bob
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