Positions available in Service, Sales, and Management. Bring your résumé to the shop.
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Next Tuesday (9/19): L.N.O.
Posted on September 17, 2017 by Shaun
NEXT TUESDAY (9/19): L.N.O.
With just days to go before our Ladies Night Out (L.N.O.) at Hometown Bicycles on Tuesday, September 19th from 6-9pm, here’s a reminder why you’ll absolutely love this event:
1) Enjoy a “night off the clock.”
2) Meet other active women.
3) Experience a new level of flattering, comfortable, and women-specific cycle wear.
Read more HERE, or let your hair down and just go for it!! You deserve this!!
A PERSONAL NOTE FROM YOUR CORRESPONDENT
Hometownies, your newsletter correspondent (moi) is the mother of both a 1- and 2-year-old, and a business owner to boot – time is always at a premium. That’s why, going forward, you’ll notice a change in our emails. Don’t worry! You’ll still enjoy fun content from your favorite bike shop, just with a little less regularity.I always enjoy reading your replies to our newsletters, as well as the in-person feedback. Keep it coming! It’s helpful to hear about what YOU want to hear about most! Thanks for being such great and loyal readers!
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UNTIL TOUR DE LIVINGSTON 2017!!
Scenic routes, wonderful people, great local cause, and TEN chances to win a Jamis bike!! The stars have sure aligned for this ride… REGISTER NOW for Tour de Livingston!
TEAM NEWS: ADDISON OAKS & PEDAL TO BEER
Shout out to Team Hometownie, John Wyatt, who recently enjoyed (seriously… check out his smile!) the fast and flowy trails of Addison Oaks Fall Classic 2017 cross country bike race. He finished in a respectable 7th place out of 25 riders in his Sport division. You did your Hometown peeps proud, John!
And a note for all you riders who think bikes and beer were a match made in heaven… be sure to check out the upcoming MCMBA’s Pedal to Beer Brewery Tour. Helmet tip to Team Hometownie Jean Steinberg for bringing this little gem to our attention!
I STAND VERY CORRECTED…
It would appear that this newsletter correspondent didn’t do her due diligence when it came to last week’s feature on cycle-bound adventurer, Dick Janson. With a note of apology and a salute to his good humor, let me see if I can put the record straight…
Dick is NOT a member – board or otherwise – of the LMB, but harbors an appreciation for their good works. And he would be hard pressed to cycle the rideable roads of all 83 Michigan counties… at least not in one lifetime! His adventures tend toward day trips that fan out from his home base. I guess Dick is simply the sort of person who comes across larger than life. Even without my unintentional embellishments, he’s a credit to the cycling community. Glad you swung by our shop, Dick!
HOMETOWN BICYCLES APPLE ORCHARD RIDE
Cider, donuts, bikes, beer… this ride has got it GOING ON! Organized by Team Captain, Jim Cleer, this casual fun ride is a must-do for fellow cider mill junkies!
We’ll roll at 8am on September 23rd from the Block Brewing Company in Howell (1140 S. Michigan Ave.), and pedal scenic back roads to Parshallville Cider Mill. Then it’s on to Markillie Orchard for a cider-and-donut top-off before looping back ’round to the brewery. This no-drop ride is about 35 miles of predominantly dirt roads. We’ll be riding a brisk, conversational pace (think 12-16mph). Come with “WAM” (Walking Around Money!) to enjoy refreshments at each stop. Ride updates be found HERE. Cider fiends, let’s ride!
BE A HERO! BECOME A MOUNTAIN BIKE PATROLLER
Earlier this year, the upstanding group of outstanding individuals pictured above met at Hometown Bicycles for an intense course in helping riders in distress. Hosted by the MCMBA, the National Mountain Bike Patrol training used our Community Room for classroom education, and our backyard trail for hands-on learning.
MCMBA’s Randy Kessler will be running a second Mountain Bike Patrol training at our shop on September 23rd from 10am-3pm. Click HERE to learn more and to register for this gallant group!
HAMBURG FITNESS CENTER HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO
For all of you who will NOT be riding with us at Poses, Pedals & Pints (P3) on September 30th, here’s a free and family-friendly event that’s an absolute blast, run the same day by Team Sponsor, Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp. We LOVE their annual Health & Fitness Expo, and are bummed to be missing out on the fun this year (since we’re the “Pedal” portion of P3).
You do NOT have to be a member to attend!!The public is welcome to enjoy everything from raffles, health and spinal screenings, to massage, laser therapy, kids activities, and special class demos for Cardio Drumming, Aikido Martial Arts, Piyo, PILOXING Barre, and IntenSati. It’s all about giving you the tools to live longer and stronger… and to have fun doing it! CLICK HERE for details.
POSES, PEDALS & PINTS: A FEW SPOTS REMAINING!!
Based out of Downtown Brighton’s beautiful Brewery Becker, this Saturday, September 30th event opens with beginner-friendly yoga, courtesy of event coordinator Tocca Massage & Yoga, follows up with a scenic and recreational bike ride with Hometown Bicycles (new route!), and ends with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker. Only a few spot left… hurry!
REGISTER NOW FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION
(Feelin’ the love in this super-sweet message from Sunday Gravel Grinder riders to their healing ride leader, Brian Forhan. Golly, our Hometownies are something special!)
HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES
SATURDAY TOUR DE LIVINGSTON PREP RIDE (9/16)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
*** FINAL PREP RIDE! TOUR DE LIVINGSTON IS OCTOBER 8TH! ***
This is the last in the series of weekly rides that spanned 10 – 15 miles to help riders build up to this year’sTour de Livingston. Route is on the park roads. Road bikes are preferred for this ride. All level riders are welcome. 12 – 15 mph pace, 1.5 hours. Follow this Facebook event for updates.
SUNDAY HARTLAND GRAVEL GRINDER (9/17)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hartland Township Hall
A holiday weekend can’t put a stopper on these gravel road warriors! We’re up to nearly 36 miles with approx. 2,000′ of climb (which, for MI, is a TON of climb!) on beautiful and EXTREMELY hilly country roads (and limited pavement) – all with wonderful ride companions! This is an intermediate/advanced ride (check out Tuesday’s Gravel Grinding 101 for a less grueling option.) Expect several long, tough climbs at a MINIMUM 14-15 MPH pace. Cross/Gravel, Mountain, and Fat bikes are welcome. Meet in the lower parking lot (turn right once in the drive) 2655 Clark Rd, Hartland, MI 48353. Click HERE for this Facebook event.
SUNDAY EXPLORING TRAILS MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE (9/17)
4:30PM (meet at 4:15) from Hometown Bicycles
This is a Beginner Friendly mountain bike trail ride which will encourage riders to visit new trails as their skill level increases. This week, we’ll be exploring 9 – 15 miles of the Island Lake Mountain Bike trails. Save 1.5 hours of your day to ride with the Hometown crew. All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged to join this ride. You can find this Facebook event here.
MONDAY BEGINNER FRIENDLY ROAD RIDE (9/18)
Sponsored by Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles
Come join the Hometown Bicycles crew for this NO DROP ride. Road bikes only please. We’ll ride Island Lake roads to the well-known “Green Dumpster” and back – approx 12 – 15 miles. Those ready for more will group up to take on more mileage! Expect a 12 – 17+ mph pace to accommodate riders’ skill levels. All levels are welcome – we’ll split into groups according to experience and speed, with a sweep to bring up the rear. Stay tuned to Facebook for ride updates!
*** TUESDAY (9/19) – LADIES NIGHT OUT AT HOMETOWN (NO RIDE) ***
From 6-9pm at the shop – REGISTER HERE!
This event marks the transition from our weekly, Tuesday Women’s Road Ride, to our weekly, Tuesday Women’s Fitness Adventures! With the days growing shorter, we’ll be shifting our cycling activities to a variety of fun classes, including everything from women-only cardio drumming, hot yoga, and spinning to women-only trail walk/runs, trampoline fitness, and a bike fitting seminar. You’ll learn more about these classes at Ladies Night Out which, for a nominal charge, treats you to a yoga class, wine tasting, trunk show, giveaways, and discounts on all women’s products. REGISTER NOW TO ATTEND!
TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE (9/19)
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles
Join Hometown service guru, Dan ‘CycloDan’ Tribble, for this unique, gravel grinding adventure ride. **It’s time to start bringing lights!!** We’ll tackle road, singletrack, and gravel, including portions of Island Lake, hopping a guardrail, sand “puddles”, and a few hills just for fun! Plan for just over an hour, covering 13+ miles at a 12 – 13 mph average pace. Gravel, adventure, or mountain/fat bikes required (not appropriate for skinny tires). All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Check here for ride updates.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST (9/20)
This is a DROP RIDE!
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles
HAMMERFEST:
Bring your “A” game, and see if you can stay on this crazy train of talented individuals as they push each other to find new limits. You’ll want the fastest road bike you own, as the pace averages 20 mph through 2 laps (40 miles) of Island Lake roads. Expect the flats pace to range 24 – 28 mph!
SON OF HAMMERFEST:
**For those that would like to build up to the original Hammerfest** Also rolling at 6:00pm, this ride includes 25 miles (1 lap of ILRA & the Kensington Loop). Average pace targeted at 17 – 18 mph, with flats of 20+ mph. Check Facebook for ride updates.
THURSDAY SOCIAL MORNING ROAD RIDE (9/21)
10:00AM (meet at 9:45) from Hometown Bicycles
This conversational morning ride will find us exploring Island Lake’s beautiful park roads. The plan this week is to ride 1-1.5 hours at a 10 mph average pace. Ride whatever bike will work for the pace and your desired exercise level. This is a NO DROP ride. Check Facebook for ride confirmation/changes due to weather.
For ALL SHOP RIDES, be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmations and updates!
(Photo cred: Yoga pic at left courtesy Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga)
FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN
Hey, Hometownies! Mark your calendars for these fantastic fitness programs running right here at your favorite bike shop:
CARDIO DRUMMING | Wednesdays at 6:00PM
$5 class fee / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf
Click to learn more
DYNAMIC YOGA | Coming Soon!
$10 drop in – With Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga
Click to learn more
ZUMBA | Mondays at 6PM & Thursdays at 9:30AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $50” punch card – With Leslie Barrett
Click to learn more
… Every mile a memory…
– Dierks Bentley
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Countdown to the Tour
Posted on September 8, 2017 by Shaun
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We are just ONE MONTH AWAY from the incredibly fun, awesomely scenic, marvelously community focused Tour de Livingston, a ride we place so much value in that we’ve donated TEN bicycles this year to celebrate its 10 years of service to our Community!
If you haven’t registered yet, what are you waiting for?? In addition to enjoying one of our county’s most beautiful rides and supporting your Community in the process, you have 10 CHANCES TO WIN a brand, new Jamis!! The odds are in your favor – REGISTER NOW for Tour de Livingston!
On a side note, do you remember a few newsletters back, when we promised a special Hometown prize to the first person to report back with selfies with all 10 bikes which have been placed around town?… It’s go time! Shaun will be posting the first eight locations today on our Facebook page to get you started. On your marks, get set…
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SPECIAL REQUEST: On Wednesday, September 13th, we will be hosting a special Tour de Livingston Sponsor/Jersey Rider event that will fill our Hometown parking lot from 5pm-7pm. We’ll still be available for your emergency needs, but encourage you to visit us before or after these hours for your non-urgent bike needs. Thank you, Hometownies!
3 REASONS TO SIGN UP FOR LADIES NIGHT OUT
Ok, ladies, by now you know the pampering and perks that will be going down at Ladies Night Out at Hometown Bicycles on Tuesday, September 19th from 6-9pm (and if you don’t, you can CLICK HERE.) As a fellow gal – living an insanely busy life, but still wanting to stay active – I’ve put a lot of myself into this event, and so I can say with sincere confidence that there are THREE CORE REASONS why you should sign up now:
1) Give yourself a “night off the clock”. You are a mom, a friend, a daughter, a boss, a wife, a girlfriend, a coworker, a role model, or some glorious combination thereof. All of these make you wonderfully and uniquely YOU. But they also come with responsibilities, and those demand energy. Set those duties down for a few hours. Rejuvenate. This event is 100% about YOU!
2) Meet other active women. One of the world’s greatest motivators is finding like-minded people to enjoy activities with and share accountability. This is your group. These are your gals.
3) Experience a new level of flattering and comfortable fashion. Comfort does NOT have to come at the expense of looking good. Our new women’s cycle wear line, Shebeest, puts a definitive end to “diaper butt”, boring styles, boxy silhouettes, see-through lycra, and generic fit, at the same time it eliminates bunching, chafing, and raw bums. You’ll LOVE the women-designed patterns and styles, the silky feel, and the EVERY-body-type fits that will make you WANT to ride your bicycle again and again. I know – I have the 2018 Spring line in my office!
Yoga, wine, chocolate, fashion, giveaways, and discounts – this is truly shaping up to be a perfect mid-week get-away. That’s why I am personally inviting you to…
TEAM NEWS: LABOR DAY 30K & BREWERY APPRECIATION
Milford’s Labor Day 30K was overflowing with Hometownies who captured podiums and placings galore! This annual event is known for its lively combination of running, walking, cycling, and kiddie events from the well-loved home base of Baker’s of Milford. Great attitudes… a great time… great job, Team Hometownies!
(Images courtesy Katherine Rose and MCMBA)
Team Hometown Bicycles also made its way to the MCMBA Sponsor Brewery Appreciation Ride, supporting the local breweries that support our local MMBA chapter which supports our local trails (whew!) Team representatives Jean and Steve Steinberg report:
43 participants pedaled from River’s Edge, through Kensington Park, Island Lake, and ended up at Draught Horse in New Hudson. After fellow riders grabbed food and beverages, we moved on through the railtrail all the way to Drafting Table in Wixom. Some of us enjoyed a quick couple games of Left, Right Center with our drinks – something new I learned was available at the brewery! Once our hour was up, away we went, back through the railtrail, down Old Plank and back to River’s Edge for more food and fun.
BONUS NOTE: We definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to congratulate Team Captain, Brian Forhan, on coming out of back surgery like a champ AND becoming a grandpa for the second time on the exact same day! Happy healing and enjoy that new granddaughter, Brian!
(Images courtesy Dick Janson: Dick’s trusty steed at left, Dick’s “stick” shift at right!)
RIDING LITERALLY EVERY PAVED ROAD IN MICHIGAN
… that a cyclist is allowed to be on. That’s the self-assigned challenge of one of the most fascinating customers I’ve ever chanced upon at the front counter – League of Michigan Bicyclists advocate, Dick Janson. He rides year-round, and has already pedaled SIX counties under his belt! His story will put your jaw squarely on the floor:
Yesterday, September 4, I completed the effort I started December 1, 2016, to ride all the paved roads in Livingston County that a bicyclist is allowed to be on. This included dead ends, cul de sacs, mobile home parks in all their incarnations, state highways, and every other road that I determined had ever been paved, regardless of current condition. If a road was not continuous, I was on the full length of all sections within the county. What I didn’t ride were limited access highways and ramps, gated communities, and paved subdivisions surrounded by unpaved roads. It involved 74 rides and included 1864 miles of riding (or pushing, in the case of some hills).
January of 2015 I looked back on my my accomplishments and decided that I wanted to do something that nobody else had ever done to celebrate my upcoming birthday in July. I determined that nobody had done this in Ingham County. I enjoyed it so much that I moved on to other counties.
Livingston County is the sixth county for which I have done this, since the start of 2015. The other five are Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee and Saginaw, which took 23 months, covered 3,000 square miles, and required over 11,000 miles of riding.
I ride a Tour Easy recumbent I bought used 18 years ago. Since then, I have ridden it over 56,000 miles. I’ve been on self-supported tours that lasted up to 4 weeks, mostly riding alone. Two of them were 1100 miles and 19 days each, using DALMAC rides as an initial springboard. I spent a month in West Virginia, carrying 40 pounds of gear, and still logged 500 miles.
I have come to favor the County Challenges more than the extended tours for several reasons:
1. It forces me to ride roads that are challenging.
2. I can, to a certain extent, choose my geography and weather.
3. I’m not committed to riding the day after a tough day.
4. I get to stop and talk with so many interesting people, and with those that are not that way, I can “get on down the road” without feeling rude.
5. I get to sleep in my own bed.
Dick also keeps up a fun website, Necessary Options, with some of the most useful information I’ve ever seen for self-supported bicycle touring, and it’s entertaining as heck. We hope to invite Dick back over the winter to entertain and instruct us with his tales of touring daring-do… stay tuned!
AMY’S BLOG: 9/8/17
Every week, Hometown’s Amy Gluck – former All-American IRONMAN triathlete, survivor of a horrific accident, and now ferociously determined to return to IRONMAN – shares a piece of her ongoing story. Today, you’ll enjoy Amy’s overview of the much-loved T-Rex Triathlon race series:
… The unusual thing about the T-Rex series is that the races are on weekday evenings. Most people are used to getting up early and racing first thing in the morning, but this race series focuses on a different athlete. For example, when you are training for an Ironman, you can’t give up a whole weekend day of training for one short sprint race. So, this type of race actually works well for the serious athlete. It’s odd, though, because you have to keep your body “race ready” all day long. This is a pretty tricky challenge… READ ON
Amy’s full blogs are posted HERE on our website.
CHEER ON BRIGHTON CYCLING THIS WEEKEND!
Just wanted to remind all you supporters of youth cycling that this weekend, Sunday, September 10th from 8am-2pm, you’ll have the opportunity to cheer on your Hometown service crew and their fellow high school racers, as they compete in the second event of their mountain bike race series. The race will be held at Island Lake. Wear your Hometown gear, and get ready to raise the roof!
NEXT TUESDAY (9/12): LIVINGSTON COUNTY BIKE WAYS FORUM
Here’s your chance to speak up about cyclist safety and bike paths! This forum, presented by the Livingston County Transportation Coalition is centered around:
- How would a county-wide network of non-motorized paths and lanes impact our communities and our residents?
- What non-motorized routes would be most desirable in our county or from our county to nearby destinations?
Runs Tuesday, September 12th from 3-4:15pm at 622 E. Grand River in Howell. CLICK HERE for more information.
(Images courtesy Cool Hedge Creations)
NEXT TUESDAY (9/12): BICYCLE SIGN PAINTING PARTY
Melissa of Cool Hedge Creations is offering a class in our Community Room on Tuesday, September 12th from 6-9pm. She says:
Join me for a night of painting! You will create your very own personalized wooden sign. Your creation can be a selection of one of 4 and will take 2-3 hours to create. You choose your image and the color of stain for your 20″ x 24″ sign, and I will prepare it for you to transfer your image. Then, complete it by painting the image the colors of your choice. No creative skill necessary to create your masterpiece! (Registration and $50 prepayment required, please – see link below.)
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS SIGN PAINTING PARTY NOW
HOMETOWN BICYCLES APPLE ORCHARD RIDE
Cider, donuts, bikes, beer… this ride has got it GOING ON! Organized by Team Captain, Jim Cleer, this casual fun ride is a must-do for fellow cider mill junkies!
We’ll roll at 8am on September 23rd from the Block Brewing Company in Howell (1140 S. Michigan Ave.), and pedal scenic back roads to Parshallville Cider Mill. Then it’s on to Markillie Orchard for a cider-and-donut top-off before looping back ’round to the brewery. This no-drop ride is about 35 miles of predominantly dirt roads. We’ll be riding a brisk, conversational pace (think 12-16mph). Come with “WAM” (Walking Around Money!) to enjoy refreshments at each stop. Ride updates be found HERE. Cider fiends, let’s ride!
BE A HERO! BECOME A MOUNTAIN BIKE PATROLLER
Earlier this year, the upstanding group of outstanding individuals pictured above met at Hometown Bicycles for an intense course in helping riders in distress. Hosted by the MCMBA, the National Mountain Bike Patrol training used our Community Room for classroom education, and our backyard trail for hands-on learning.
MCMBA’s Randy Kessler will be running a second Mountain Bike Patrol training at our shop on September 23rd from 10am-3pm. Click HERE to learn more and to register for this gallant group!
HAMBURG FITNESS CENTER HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO
For all of you who will NOT be riding with us at Poses, Pedals & Pints (P3) on September 30th, here’s a free and family-friendly event that’s an absolute blast, run the same day by Team Sponsor, Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp. We LOVE their annual Health & Fitness Expo, and are bummed to be missing out on the fun this year (since we’re the “Pedal” portion of P3).
You do NOT have to be a member to attend!!The public is welcome to enjoy everything from raffles, health and spinal screenings, to massage, laser therapy, kids activities, and special class demos for Cardio Drumming, Aikido Martial Arts, Piyo, PILOXING Barre, and IntenSati. It’s all about giving you the tools to live longer and stronger… and to have fun doing it! CLICK HERE for details.
POSES, PEDALS & PINTS: ONLY 6 SPOTS REMAINING!!
Based out of Downtown Brighton’s beautiful Brewery Becker, this Saturday, September 30th event opens with beginner-friendly yoga, courtesy of event coordinator Tocca Massage & Yoga, follows up with a scenic and recreational bike ride with Hometown Bicycles (new route!), and ends with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker. Only 6 spot left… hurry!
REGISTER NOW FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION
HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (9/8)
8:30PM (meet at 8:15) from Maltby Intermediate School (4740 Bauer Rd. in Brighton)
*** NOTE THE NEW TIME & LOCATION! *** This week, we’ll ride to the Brighton Recreation trails, accessing them from the gravel roads. This will be an INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED pace. Make sure your lights are charged for this ride in the dark! We will re-group throughout the trail. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged to join this ride. Details are HERE.
SATURDAY TOUR DE LIVINGSTON PREP RIDE (9/9)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
*** ONLY 2 PREP RIDES REMAINING! TOUR DE LIVINGSTON IS OCTOBER 8TH! ***
Come grow with this weekly ride as we start with 10 – 15 miles and stretch the distance week by week. Route will be on the park roads. Road bikes are preferred for this ride. All level riders are welcome. 12 – 15 mph pace, 1.5 hours. Follow this Facebook event for updates.
SUNDAY HARTLAND GRAVEL GRINDER (9/10)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hartland Township Hall
A holiday weekend can’t put a stopper on these gravel road warriors! We’re up to nearly 36 miles with approx. 2,000′ of climb (which, for MI, is a TON of climb!) on beautiful and EXTREMELY hilly country roads (and limited pavement) – all with wonderful ride companions! This is an intermediate/advanced ride (check out Tuesday’s Gravel Grinding 101 for a less grueling option.) Expect several long, tough climbs at a MINIMUM 14-15 MPH pace. Cross/Gravel, Mountain, and Fat bikes are welcome. Meet in the lower parking lot (turn right once in the drive) 2655 Clark Rd, Hartland, MI 48353. Click HERE for this Facebook event.
SUNDAY EXPLORING TRAILS MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE (9/10)
4:30PM (meet at 4:15) from Hometown Bicycles
This is a Beginner Friendly mountain bike trail ride which will encourage riders to visit new trails as their skill level increases. This week, we’ll be exploring 9 – 15 miles of the Island Lake Mountain Bike trails. Save 1.5 hours of your day to ride with the Hometown crew. All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged to join this ride. You can find this Facebook event here.
MONDAY BEGINNER FRIENDLY ROAD RIDE (9/11)
Sponsored by Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
Come join the Hometown Bicycles crew for this NO DROP ride. Road bikes only please. We’ll ride Island Lake roads to the well-known “Green Dumpster” and back – approx 12 – 15 miles. Those ready for more will group up to take on more mileage! Expect a 12 – 17+ mph pace to accommodate riders’ skill levels. All levels are welcome – we’ll split into groups according to experience and speed, with a sweep to bring up the rear. Stay tuned to Facebook for ride updates!
TUESDAY WOMEN’S ROAD RIDE (9/12)
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
Ladies, this one’s just for you! This weekly, women-only road ride is for gals of all ability levels. We’ll ride the well-known “green dumpster” loop at Island Lake – about 14 miles of road – at a conversational, 11+mph pace. Road bikes recommended, NO DROP RIDE. Afterward, relax, connect, and rehydrate at a behind-the-shop, BYOB bonfire with your new cycling buddies! Stay tuned to our Facebook events page for ride/weather updates.
TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE (9/12)
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
Join Hometown service guru, Dan ‘CycloDan’ Tribble, for this unique, gravel grinding adventure ride. **It’s time to start bringing lights!!** We’ll tackle road, singletrack, and gravel, including portions of Island Lake, hopping a guardrail, sand “puddles”, and a few hills just for fun! Plan for just over an hour, covering 13+ miles at a 12 – 13 mph average pace. Gravel, adventure, or mountain/fat bikes required (not appropriate for skinny tires). All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Check here for ride updates.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST (9/13)
This is a DROP RIDE!
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Island Lake *** NEW START LOCATION THIS WEEK ONLY & EARLIER START TIME ***
HAMMERFEST:
This Wednesday, the Hometown lot will be packed to the gills for a Tour de Livingston event, so we’re moving our Hammerfest/Son of Hammerfest rides to Island Lake Recreation Area! Check on Facebook for meet up location details. Bring your “A” game, and see if you can stay on this crazy train of talented individuals as they push each other to find new limits. You’ll want the fastest road bike you own, as the pace averages 20 mph through 2 laps (40 miles) of Island Lake roads. Expect the flats pace to range 24 – 28 mph!
SON OF HAMMERFEST:
**For those that would like to build up to the original Hammerfest** Also rolling at 6:00 from Island Lake, this ride includes 25 miles (1 lap of ILRA & the Kensington Loop). Average pace targeted at 17 – 18 mph, with flats of 20+ mph. Check Facebook for ride updates.
For ALL SHOP RIDES, be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmations and updates!
(Photo cred: Yoga pic at left courtesy Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga)
FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN
Hey, Hometownies! Mark your calendars for these fantastic fitness programs running right here at your favorite bike shop:
CARDIO DRUMMING | Wednesdays at 6:00PM
$5 class fee / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf
Click to learn more
DYNAMIC YOGA | Coming Soon!
$10 drop in – With Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga
Click to learn more
ZUMBA | Mondays at 6PM & Thursdays at 9:30AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $50” punch card – With Leslie Barrett
Click to learn more
Only look back to see how far you’ve come.
– Anonymous
Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: Amy Gluck, amy's blog, Apple Orchard Ride, Ashley Knuth, beginner rides, Bicycle Donation, bicycle shop, bicycles, bike rides, bike shop, bikes, brighton cycling, Cardio Drumming, chocolate, Cool Hedge Creations, cycling, cyclists, Dawn Bhajan, Dick Janson, discounts, fashion, financing, fitness classes, gravel grinder, group rides, Hamburg Fitness Center and Camp, Hammerfest, Health and Fitness Expo, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownie, Jean Steinberg, jersey rider, ladies night out at Hometown Bicycles, League of Michigan Bicyclists, Leslie Barrett, livingston county, Livingston County Transportation Coalition, Martha Soraruf, MCMBA Sponsor Brewery Appreciation Ride, Milford Labor Day 30K, Mountain Bike Patroller, Poses Pedals and Pints, selfies, shebeest, shop rides, sponsor, Steve Steinberg, synchrony, Team Hometown Bicycles, Tocca Massage and Yoga, Tour de Livingston, wine, yoga, zumba | Leave a comment »
Labor Day Hours, Chocolate Strawberries, and the History of Brighton Cycling
Posted on September 1, 2017 by Shaun
HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND, HOMETOWNIES! All of us at Hometown wish you and your family a weekend filled with adventures and time with your favorite people… which could include us! Yes! We are open on Labor Day to help support your holiday cycling adventures…
SATURDAY (9/2) & SUNDAY (9/3) : 9AM – 5PM
LABOR DAY (9/4) : 9AM – 3PM
NEW BUZZ ON YOUR NIGHT OF YOGA, WINE, FASHION & DEALS!
Since our last newsletter, we have THREE, new gems of information to share about Ladies Night Out at Hometown Bicycles!!
Since our last newsletter, we have THREE, new gems of information to share about Ladies Night Out at Hometown Bicycles!!- We will be closing the shop at 6pm, so that the evening can be all about YOU!
- In addition to the 2018 Spring line of women’s cycle wear fashions, our Shebeest Trunk Show will now also spotlight many of the TOP SELLERS for Fall 2017!
- There will be chocolate covered strawberries! (SIGN ME UP RIGHT NOW!!)
Details can be found HERE, or click the image above right for a printable flier, but as a quick refresher, a $40 pre-registration gets you:
• 30-minute, beginner Yoga Class with Body Within
• Wine and hors d’oeuvres tasting with a certified professional ($20 value)
• $20 Hometown Bicycles Gift Certificate
• Goodie Bag (valued at $35)
• Wonderful Ladies-Night-Out deals on women-specific bikes, apparel, and accessories
• Unique Trunk Show + discounted pre-ordering of Shebeest’s 2017 Fall / 2018 Spring line!
HOMETOWN IS NOW YOUR SHEBEEST DEALER!
As of yesterday, it’s official… we are now your local resource for one of the most functional AND fashion forward, women-specific cycle wear lines on the planet. When I say we’re excited, that could potentially qualify as the understatement of the year! Shebeest’s mission statement is as follows:
Developed by women riders specifically for women riders, shebeest is dedicated to delivering cycling wear with impeccably tailored, on-the-bike fit and performance-boosting technical features without compromising flattering, feminine style. Each shebeest piece is designed to empower the female cyclist to take on her own two-wheeled adventures that will energize and enhance her happiness, health, and spirit.
Yeah!! Watch for Shebeest apparel arriving at our shop over the coming weeks and, if you’re a gal, and you want a full flavor for what this brand has to offer, sign up for our Ladies Night Out at Hometown Bicycles, where you’ll get a Trunk Show preview of (and special discounts on!) the Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 lines!
(Hometown Crew from left to right: Conor Riddle, Joe Shafer, Matt Persha, Andrew Jackson, Kade Wirth, and Mason Verbison.)
FROM SHOP TO TRAILS – OUR CREW STICKS TOGETHER
We’re enormously proud of the high school members of Hometown’s Service Crew, pictured above, who just competed in their first interscholastic mountain bike race of the season. These guys study hard, work hard, ride hard… and are some of the nicest humans you’ll ever meet.
Kudos to Kade and Mason, who carried home a 2nd and 3rd consecutively in JV. And please join us in cheering up Andrew, whose untimely broken wrist will prevent him from riding most of his Senior Year season. He’s been philisophically and stoically “Andrew” about it, but we’re bummed for him nonetheless.
It’s funny how seeing this photo makes Shaun and I nostalgic. We remember when Brighton Cycling team was just a twinkle in one particularly memorable Hometownie’s eye… and in honor of the upcoming school year and team cycling season, this seems like a truly fitting time to share the story with you about how it all got started…
(Left: Original Brighton Cycling logo; Right: CJ, Matt & Andrew are among the 1st team members)
A BRIEF HISTORY OF BRIGHTON BULLDOG CYCLING
Back in 2011, Hometown’s 6th employee, CJ Brish, was a highly-driven, high school wrestling star, who took up bike riding to cut weight. But, man, did he love to ride! CJ competed independently at as many bike races as he could fit into his packed schedule.
(Clockwise from top left: CJ at his 1st road race – Milford Crit; Ray and CJ sporting the original Hometown race kit; Ray gleefully building up the bike he earned as part of a Jamis Grassroots Sponsorship)
At one particular race, he noticed Lake Orion kitted out as a team, and that got him wondering… could he rally up a team of his own? He put the question to Shaun, and after some brainstorming, they decided CJ’s first connection should be with Brighton High School principal, Gavin Johnson. A GREAT choice, as it turned out.
Gavin was extremely receptive, and he challenged CJ to market the idea to fellow students. CJ quickly recruited a handful of cyclists, including two you may know, as they also became members of Hometown’s early crew – Ray Danglemaier and Jack Johnson. With undeniable student interest, the support of Gavin and BHS teacher (and Hometownie) Ted Buckless, and a remarkable level of advocacy from parents like Hometown VIP Dennis Hall, Brighton Cycling was born!
(CJ and Ray come home tired but hooked after their very first Iceman!)
Since 2011, we’ve seen the team grow better, stronger, and faster – even winning two State Championships with the help of Hometown’s intellectual speedster, Colin Wood, who Captained Brighton Cycling. Coaches TJ and Shawn Tyrrell have trained the team to a whole new level of incredible, and in true family fashion (you know how much we love that here at Hometown), that included their daughter, Brooke!
(CJ racing for Lindenwood at the Collegiate National Championships)
We’re so proud to see how Brighton Cycling has grown and evolved. We’re so proud of ALL of our interscholastically racing staff: Andrew Jackson (who’s currently trying to get a team started at St. Mary’s), Matt Persha (who races for Catholic Central), and our Bulldogs – Conor Riddle (team Captain), Joe Shafer, Mason Verbison, and Kade Wirth. Come out and cheer them on at their next school race on September 10th at Island Lake. Younger riders kick off at 10am and the rest begin at 11:30am.
(Ray racing for Brevard at the Collegiate National Championships. They won!)
We’re also super proud of where the sport of cycling has taken some of our original Hometownies…
CJ and Ray, with their intense drive and focus, earned cycling scholarships to Lindenwood (CJ) and Brevard (Ray). CJ, by the way, is currently living his dream, working for Back Country Bikes in Colorado, and biking the insane “hills” of the region.
(Ray and CJ geeking out as they get to meet Jamis Pro Rider Rotem Ishay)
Looking forward, we’re currently working with Debbie Andrews, a teacher in Howell, and Tom Hermann, a Team Hometown rider and teacher in the Pinckney Schools system, who are trying to start teams in their communities. If you’re interested in helping them out, contact the shop, and we’ll connect you. You never know what kind of legacy your support will create!
(Clockwise from top left: The Simpson family sporting Junior Hometownie t-shirts designed by Marley [2nd from left], Mike Dyer powers down the backstretch, Olga Negrut triumphs with a 1st in Women’s Expert, and Scott Simpson podiums 1st in Retro Class)
TEAM NEWS: MAYBURY, DEBAETS-DEVOS & MORE
Our Team had a busy weekend, starting with a triumphant takeover at the 12th annual Maybury State Park Time Trial, which benefits the MCMBA. Mike Dyer put in a powerful ride, Scott Simpson nabbed a 1st in Retro Class, and Olga “The Romanian Rocket” Negrut topped off her typical, stellar performance with a 1st in Women’s Expert. Way to go, Team!
Joe Ostervik (above) took Hometown for a heady spin around the 1.35 mile loop at the Annual Debaetes-Devos Pro-Am Bicycle Race in Auburn Hills. You can “ride” this Criterium Championship with Joe, by clicking his video above! Nice riding, Joe!
Hurrah! to all of you who are participating in this weekend’s Milford Labor Day 30K Fat Tire/Cyclocross Ride. And we want to give a special shout out to Team Captain Brian Forhan, who goes in for back surgery on Wednesday. Brian, we’re rooting for this to get you back in the saddle, pain-free and rarin’ to roll! Best wishes from all of your Hometownies!!
AMY’S BLOG: 9/1/17
Every week, Hometown’s Amy Gluck – former All-American IRONMAN triathlete, survivor of a horrific accident, and now ferociously determined to return to IRONMAN – shares a piece of her ongoing story. This week, Amy waxes poetic (well, educational) on why drinking and running are a good mix!:
… What’s the deal with alcohol at a fitness event, you’re wondering? For this one, it kills two birds with one stone! The wine tasting entices more people to give running a try. And the race entices runners to give wines a try. Two different worlds bringing an interesting group of people together… READ ON
Amy’s full blogs are posted HERE on our website.
SPEAK UP! LIVINGSTON COUNTY BIKE WAYS
We hear it all the time – intense concern about the lack of safe bike ways in our community. Sidewalks are too narrow for safe, 2-way passage, and many of our roads’ shoulders are anything BUT cyclist-friendly!
Here’s your chance to speak up and make a difference! This forum, presented by the Livingston County Transportation Coalition, was shared with us by LCTC Chairman, Leo Hannifin (thanks, Leo!) All interested community members are invited to join the discussion centered around:
- How would a county-wide network of non-motorized paths and lanes impact our communities and our residents?
- What non-motorized routes would be most desirable in our county or from our county to nearby destinations?
The forum runs Tuesday, September 12th from 3-4:15pm at 622 E. Grand River in Howell. CLICK HERE for more information.
BE A HERO! BECOME A MOUNTAIN BIKE PATROLLER
Earlier this year, the upstanding group of outstanding individuals pictured above met at Hometown Bicycles for an intense course in helping riders in distress. Hosted by the MCMBA, the National Mountain Bike Patrol training used our Community Room for classroom education, and our backyard trail for hands-on learning.
MCMBA’s Randy Kessler will be running a second Mountain Bike Patrol training at our shop on September 23rd from 10am-3pm. Click HERE to learn more and to register for this gallant group!
(Images courtesy Cool Hedge Creations)
BICYCLE-THEMED SIGN PAINTING PARTY
Melissa of Cool Hedge Creations is offering a class in our Community Room on Tuesday, September 12th from 6-9pm. She says:
Join me for a night of painting! You will create your very own personalized wooden sign. Your creation can be a selection of one of 4 and will take 2-3 hours to create. You choose your image and the color of stain for your 20″ x 24″ sign, and I will prepare it for you to transfer your image. Then, complete it by painting the image the colors of your choice. No creative skill necessary to create your masterpiece! (Registration and $50 prepayment required, please – see link below.)
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS SIGN PAINTING PARTY NOW
POSES, PEDALS & PINTS: FALL EDITION
Based out of Downtown Brighton’s beautiful Brewery Becker, this event opens with beginner-friendly yoga, courtesy of event coordinator Tocca Massage & Yoga, follows up with a scenic and recreational bike ride with Hometown Bicycles (new route!), and ends with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker.
REGISTER NOW FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION
HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (9/1)
9:00PM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
It’s a different world out there when you’re riding by bike light! This week, we’ll ride to the Island Lake trails, accessing them from the gravel roads. This will be an INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED pace. Make sure your lights are charged for this ride in the dark! We will re-group throughout the trail. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged to join this ride. Details can be found HERE.
SUNDAY HARTLAND GRAVEL GRINDER (9/3)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hartland Township Hall
A holiday weekend can’t put a stopper on these gravel road warriors! We’re up to nearly 36 miles with approx. 2,000′ of climb (which, for MI, is a TON of climb!) on beautiful and EXTREMELY hilly country roads (and limited pavement) – all with wonderful ride companions! This is an intermediate/advanced ride (check out Tuesday’s Gravel Grinding 101 for a less grueling option.) Expect several long, tough climbs at a MINIMUM 14-15 MPH pace. Cross/Gravel, Mountain, and Fat bikes are welcome. Meet in the lower parking lot (turn right once in the drive) 2655 Clark Rd, Hartland, MI 48353. Click HERE for this Facebook event.
*** NO TOUR DE LIVINGSTON PREP RIDE (Saturday), EXPLORING TRAILS (Sunday), OR BEGINNER ROAD RIDE (Monday) ***
*** in observance of the holiday weekend! Happy Labor Day! ***
We wish you a wonderful Labor Day weekend with your family and friends. Our regular ride schedule kicks back into gear on Tuesday, but you can still get your ride fix on our Sunday Hartland Gravel Grinder (see above), or visit us at the shop this weekend for general bike geekery!
TUESDAY WOMEN’S ROAD RIDE (9/5)
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
Ladies, this one’s just for you! This weekly, women-only road ride is for gals of all ability levels. We’ll ride the well-known “green dumpster” loop at Island Lake – about 14 miles of road – at a conversational, 11+mph pace. Road bikes recommended, NO DROP RIDE. Afterward, relax, connect, and rehydrate at a behind-the-shop, BYOB bonfire with your new cycling buddies! Stay tuned to our Facebook events page for ride/weather updates.
TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE (9/5)
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
Join Hometown service guru, Dan ‘CycloDan’ Tribble, for this unique, gravel grinding adventure ride. **It’s time to start bringing lights!!** We’ll tackle road, singletrack, and gravel, including portions of Island Lake, hopping a guardrail, sand “puddles”, and a few hills just for fun! Plan for just over an hour, covering 13+ miles at a 12 – 13 mph average pace. Gravel, adventure, or mountain/fat bikes required (not appropriate for skinny tires). All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Check here for ride updates.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST (9/6)
This is a DROP RIDE!
6:00PM (meet at 5:45) from Hometown Bicycles *** EARLIER START TIME ***
HAMMERFEST:
Bring your “A” game, and see if you can stay on this crazy train of talented individuals as they push each other to find new limits. You’ll want the fastest road bike you own, as the pace averages 20 mph through 2 laps (40 miles) of Island Lake roads. Expect the flats pace to range 24 – 28 mph! Check Facebook for ride updates.
SON OF HAMMERFEST:
**For those that would like to build up to the original Hammerfest** Also rolling at 6:30 from Hometown Bicycles, this ride includes 25 miles (1 lap of ILRA & the Kensington Loop). Average pace targeted at 17 – 18 mph, with flats of 20+ mph.
THURSDAY SOCIAL MORNING ROAD RIDE (9/7)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
This conversational morning ride will find us exploring Island Lake’s beautiful park roads. The plan this week is to ride 1-1.5 hours at a 10 mph average pace. Ride whatever bike will work for the pace and your desired exercise level. This is a NO DROP ride. Check Facebook for ride confirmation/changes due to weather.
For ALL SHOP RIDES, be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmations and updates!
(Photo cred: Yoga pic at left courtesy Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga)
FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN
Hey, Hometownies! Mark your calendars for these fantastic fitness programs running right here at your favorite bike shop:
CARDIO DRUMMING | Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 6:45PM
$5 class fee / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf
Click to learn more
DYNAMIC YOGA | Coming Soon!
$10 drop in – With Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga
Click to learn more
ZUMBA | Mondays at 6PM & Thursdays at 9:30AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $50” punch card – With Leslie Barrett
Click to learn more
Everything starts with a sunrise, but it’s what we do before it sets that matters.
– K. McGraw
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