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    10595 Grand River Road
    Brighton, MI 48116
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    Tuesday: Closed
    Wednesday: Closed
    Thursday: 10 AM - 7 PM
    Friday: 10 AM - 7 PM
    Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM
    Sunday: 10 AM - 5 PM

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Ways for you and your family to enjoy SUMMER!

Tour de Livingston Kick Off Ride at Michigan Challenge Balloonfest
RIDE WITH YOUR HOMETOWN TEAM & CREW AT TOMORROW’S KICK-OFF!

Every year, Hometown joins forces with our Howell Rotary and Livingston County United Way peeps to run a FREE, family-friendly, multi-loop ride on Howell’s scenic roadways. The Kick-Off Ride coordinates with the breathtaking balloon fly-in for the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest, and builds awareness for the much-loved Tour de Livingston, run annually in the Fall.

Our Team and Crew have marked the routes and will be on hand to lead the rides. Come on out this Sunday, June 24 at 6:45am and ride with us!

(Note: Our shop will still be open at 9am on Sunday – be sure to drop by after the ride and make those few of us who stayed behind jealous!)


Hometown Bicycles Service Lead Andrew Jackson

AN UNPRECEDENTED SALUTE TO A STELLAR CREW MEMBER

WE WILL BE CLOSING EARLY (4PM) THIS SUNDAY (6/24) 

 

Everybody knows Andrew. Hometown Service Lead Andrew Jackson has been a fixture at our shop for the past 4 years. He’s unfurled his wings with us, evolving from a youthful and studious Service Tech to a self-assured, highly-skilled leader. He’s respected by customers and crew alike, and is the sort of guy you would describe as a “genuinely good human being”.

We knew our time with Andrew was limited by his unshakeable aspiration to study Engineering. And now that he’s graduated, that time is coming to a close, as he prepares for college and future greatness.

For the first time in the history of Hometown, we are closing the shop early, so that Shaun and I, and all of his fellow Crew members, can attend Andrew’s graduation party. We don’t know how to give you any greater compliment on your exceptional contribution to Hometown, Andrew. Congratulations, and we look forward to seeing what amazing things you accomplish!

STORE HOURS THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 24TH

9AM – 4PM


Team Hometown Bicycles rider Shannon McKay at Le Tour de Shore
TEAM NEWS: Long Rides & Mountain Mayhem
 

Your Team continues to have a pedal in every pie, starting with the adventurous Shannon McKay, who biked 114 miles from Chicago to New Buffalo, MI with Le Tour de Shore. Awesome sauce, Shannon!

Brad Allen and Jack Riddle attacked grueling gradients on one of Michigan’s toughest road bike challenges, the Michigan Mountain Mayhem Spring Classic. Meanwhile, Team Captain Jim Cleer road a FULL 24 HOURS in the National 24 Hour Bike Challenge, billed as the nation’s oldest and largest ultramarathon cycling event. “The burn isn’t telling me to stop. It’s telling me it’s working!” – way to go, guys!!

Team Hometown Bicycles dads Paul Andres and Mike Dyer on Father's Day rides with their littles
And we just want to give a newsletter high-five to these two Team dads, Paul Andres and Mike Dyer, who cycled with their families for Father’s Day. Cool beans!


2nd Annual Hometown Bicycles July Jubilee and Sale logo
SAVE THE DATE: 
HOMETOWN JULY JUBILEE (7/15) 

Last year, we introduced the Hometown Bicycles Annual July Jubilee & Salewith a “huzzah!” heard ‘round the world! Now this year’s July 15th Jubilee takes the fun had last year, and exponentially multiplies it for an utterly epic, carnival-style, super-event that your whole family will love!!
— JULY JUBILEE EVENT & SALE – Sunday, July 15 from 1-5pm —
2nd Annual Hometown Bicycles July Jubilee and Sale logo
Food & YUMMMMMMMMMM Cotton Candy!!
Hydration courtesy Team Sponsor Beauchamp Water Treatment & Supply!

 

2nd Annual Hometown Bicycles July Jubilee and Sale logoGames & Prizes
Including water balloon tournaments on the front lawn, tire tosstricycle tug-of war, andcrazy cool lawn games, courtesy of Team Sponsor Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp!

 

2nd Annual Hometown Bicycles July Jubilee and Sale logoFamily Classes & Demos
Including Zumba-Cardio Drumming Fusion with Leslie Barrett and Martha SorarufAcro Yoga with Yoga Nature, and Belly Dancing with One Spirit Dance & Fitness of Pinckney(all PG and kid-friendly!)

 

2nd Annual Hometown Bicycles July Jubilee and Sale logoTour de Livingston Tent
Learn about Hometown’s favorite local charity ride from creators, Howell Rotary andLivingston County United Way!

 

*** MEGA SUMMER BLOWOUT SALE on accessories – from bags to bells to saddles to tools – to make way for new product lines that you’re going to LOVE!! ***

———— JULY JUBILEE RIDE – Sunday, July 15 at 3:00pm ————-

 

Hometown Bicycles shop rideJoin our Team and Crew on a MASSIVE, July Jubilee Ride, for riders of all types, ages, and skill levels. We leave from the shop at 3:00pm for a leisurely spin around Island Lake. Make friends, have fun, and be back just in time for our…
— RED, WHITE, & BLUES CONCERT – Sunday, July 15, 5-8pm —
This ‘funk’y fundraising concert rounds out our July Jubilee celebration with the bluesy rock and roll of Hometown’s long time service tech and purveyor of extraordinary bike knowledge, Dan “CycloDan” Tribble, and his PBR Band.Enjoy outstanding music, dancing, snacks (BYOB), and socializing… all while directly supporting your fellow cyclist and Hometownie, Dan Rosenhack, and his amazing family. Dan’s diagnosis of terminal brain cancer has resulted in costly medical and living expenses, and this concert is geared to help relieve the financial strain on his family. Half of your $10 cover charge helps pay for the band, and half will be gifted to Dan Rosenhack’s family.
Dan Tribble and his Progressive Blues and Rhythm Band
It’s laid back, funky fun that will wow your ears and tickle your tastebuds, all while supporting a deeply meaningful cause.Please let us know you’re coming, so we can plan for enough refreshments!
July star border

A Taste of Brighton logo
VISIT HOMETOWN AT A TASTE OF BRIGHTON!

This year, Hometown’s headed downtown July 13th & 14th (with July Jubilee on the 15th!) for the annual A Taste of Brighton affair, where we’ll give festival-goers a flavor of what makes our shop and our sport so darn special! Shaun will be on stage running several Bike Care 101 and Flat Tire Fix clinics throughout the event, and our tent will be crankin’, with our Service Crew demo-ing what we’re famous for – the best bike repair in Southeast Michigan! Add this event to your family calendar, and be sure to stop by and say “hi!”

Hometown Bicycles' Shaun and Liam in last year's 4th of July Parade
RIDE WITH SHAUN IN BRIGHTON’S JULY 4 PARADE!

Brighton Optimist Club Bike Decorating Contest and Parade with Hometown BicyclesThis year, the whole family – Shaun and I and the kids – will be riding in Brighton’s 4th of July Parade, and we’re calling on all families with kids ages kindergarten through 5th grade to join us! There’s no charge!!

Brighton Optimist Club is the annual host of this well-loved Bike Decorating Contest & Parade Ride, and Hometown has enjoyed the privilege of helping their program grow year by year. In addition to hosting bike decorating parties at our shop and offering complimentary bike checks and helmet discounts to participants, we’re also providing free bicycle delivery and pick-up service to and from the parade! Details of this event can be found here, but here’s our mission…

Hometownies, let’s BLANKET this parade in bicycles!! Sign up now to be a part of making this the biggest bike entry in the history of the parade!


KIDS SELF DEFENSE CLASS AT HOMETOWN

BullyIf someone wants to hurt our children, they won’t choose a time or a place with witnesses. That means no parents, no teachers, no policemen, just our children and the predator. The safety of our children will depend on their ability to recognize a threat and respond effectively.

Hometown is thrilled to welcome back outstanding instructor, Ian Kinder of Live Safe Academy for a fun, interactive and age-appropriate workshop that teaches essential, lifesaving information about the threats facing our children, strategies for prevention and real world techniques designed to reduce their risk of abductions, assaults and other forms of violence. But most of all, these programs teach students that they have the right to be safe, that no one has the right to hurt them and that they are worth protecting.

Coed, for ages 6-12. Class fee is $25.  REGISTER NOW!


HELP LAW ENFORCEMENT UNDERSTAND CYCLIST NEEDS

League of Michigan Bicyclists Community Bicycle Safety EducationThe League of Michigan Bicyclists is always up to something exciting, and their latest adventure is a new training series, designed for law enforcement and cyclists, being held across the State. They note that each session is interactive, and addresses:

•  MI Vehicle Code and MI Compiled Laws
segments relating to the use of the bicycle
on MI roadways and sidewalks.
•  Best practices for bicycle crash investigation
and reporting.
•  Updates on accepted engineering designs
for bicycle travel.
•  Safe bicycling practices.

Want to help cyclists be heard? Register now for this 5-hour, $15, food-included session!


PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTES FOR HOMETOWN!

Livingston Daily People's Choice award Click On Detroit Vote 4 the Best

** The Best Bike Shop section on Livingston Daily’s survey is question number 53!
** In Vote4theBest, you can go directly to Hometown’s voting page: CLICK HERE!


Hometown Bicycles Womens Only Mountain Bike Shop Ride with Ride Coordinator Laura Faunce
UPCOMING SHOP RIDES
Saturday Road Ride
SATURDAY, JUNE 23  |  11:00AM (MEET BY 10:45AM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN BICYCLES
This one’s for the beginner rider who wants to increase mileage and speed. We’ll ride the well-known “to-the-Green-Dumpster-and-back” loop (~12-15 miles), or more for those who are ready. A and B groups will average 10-15+ mph. Road bikes only! Please have some experience on your bike, along with basic shifting and braking skills for the safety of the group. Beyond that, we’ll share some tips to make the hills easier and the flats faster! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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TOUR DE LIVINGSTON KICK-OFF RIDE!

SUNDAY, JUNE 24  |  7:00AM (MEET BY 6:45AM)  |  FROM HOWELL COURTHOUSE
Join your Hometown Team and Crew for the annual Tour de Livingston Kick-Off Ride, running in conjunction with the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest! This ride is FREE and offers 5-mile, 10-mile, and 25-mile road route options. Every rider receives a commemorative water bottle, and a chance to watch the balloons launch! Click here for all of the exciting details!

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Monday Beginner-Friendly Road Ride
MONDAY, JUNE 25  |  6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
This one’s for the beginner rider who wants to increase mileage and speed. We’ll ride the well-known “to-the-Green-Dumpster-and-back” loop (~12-15 miles), or more for those who are ready. A and B groups will average 10-15+ mph. Road bikes only! Please have some experience on your bike, along with basic shifting and braking skills for the safety of the group. Beyond that, we’ll share some tips to make the hills easier and the flats faster! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Advanced Skills & Drills
TUESDAY, JUNE 26  |  6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
Want to learn to ride with a peloton? This ADVANCED, road warrior training is led by our Team racers! You’ll learn and practice: draft lines, hill repeats and intervals. Come ready to work hard at an average 20mph pace. Bring a cadence sensor, speed sensor, and heart rate monitor. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Ladies’ Road Ride
TUESDAY, JUNE 26  |  7:00PM (MEET BY 6:45PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
Ladies, this one’s just for you! This weekly, road ride is for gals of all ability levels. We’ll ride the well-known “green dumpster” loop at Island Lake (~14 miles) at a conversational, 10mph pace. All bikes welcome, NO DROP RIDE. Afterward, relax, connect, and rehydrate with your new biking friends. BYOB! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Gravel Grinding 101
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27  |  6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
Ride with your Hometown bike guru, CycloDan Tribble! Front and rear light required, as we end at dusk. This ride weaves through and around Island Lake, covering 13+ miles of pavement, dirt trails and gravel roads (a few hills just for fun!) at an average 12-13 mph. Expect a “puddle” or two of sand and a few face slappers on the trails this time of year. Nothing our gravel, adventure or mountain/fat bikes can’t easily handle. Skinny tire bikes will NOT work for this ride. All levels welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

*** RENT A FAT BIKE AT THE SHOP! ***

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Ladies Only Beginner Mountain Bike Ride
THURSDAY, JUNE 28  |  6:30PM (MEET BY 6:15PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
Ladies, come learn beginning mountain bike skills! We’ll tackle the trails in manageable bites, with the empowering support of skilled and supportive Hometown women. We’ll ride together to Island Lake Recreation Area, and focus on taking the fear and uncertainty out of riding the trails! NO DROP. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

*** RENT A FAT BIKE AT THE SHOP! ***


Zumba with Leslie Barrett and Cardio Drumming with Martha Soraruf at Hometown Bicycles
FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES
Many of you are familiar with the rockin’ beats and great cardio that take place weekly on our showroom floor. But for those who haven’t yet experienced fitness classes at Hometown, or simply want a high-energy pick-me-up, here are a few classes you’ll absolutely want to try!

CARDIO DRUMMING | Wednesdays at 6:00PM
$5 drop in / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf
Click to learn more

ZUMBA | Mondays at 6:00PM & Thursdays at 9:30AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $50” punch card – With Leslie Barrett
Click to learn more


Team Hometown Bicycles' rider at mountain bike race

When muscle and machine connect, extraordinary things happen.

~ Anonymous

Mom’s Day Giveaways, Stampedes, and Bikes and Brews in Brighton

Happy Mother's Day from your Hometown Bicycles Crew!

THIS SUNDAY, IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU…  
Moms are multi-tasking, multi-faceted, multi-dimensional, and multi-talented rockstars. Am I tooting my own horn? Probably, but the point is that the mom in your life deserves royal treatment this Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 14th), and we’re going to help!

This Sunday, moms will enjoy flowers and refreshments, compliments of your Hometown crew. There’ll be t-shirt give-aways. AND, the first 20 bikes purchased by or for a mom come with a COMPLIMENTARY Hometown Bicycles Mother’s Day package, which includes a cycle computer, safety light, bottle cage, water bottle, and seat bag at NO ADDITIONAL COST.

You have done and continue to do so much for us, moms – this is just our way of saying we love you, we appreciate you, and we want you to have a wonderful Mother’s Day!


Amy Gluck teaching a Triathlon 101 Clinic at Hometown Bicycles
TODAY: “TRIATHLON 101” CLINIC WITH AMY GLUCK

If you’re on the fence about whether to try a tri, are new to the tri community, or are simply eager to pick up tips from a pro, this info-gathering clinic is for you! NO CHARGE!

CLICK TO ATTEND TRIATHLON 101 WITH AMY GLUCK
Thursday, May 11th at 6pm in the Community Room


Team Hometown Bicycles at Mud, Sweat, and Beers - Paul Andres, Scott Simpson, and Mike Dyer
THE TEAM REPRESENTS AT MUD, SWEAT & BEERS

Mud, Sweat & Beers Fat Tire Fest and Mountain Bike Race. As their website notes: “The name of our race says it all: get ready to be sweaty.”

Team Hometown’s Paul Andres, Scooter Gates, Mike Dyer, and Scott Simpson all expended some serious electrolytes in the pursuit of personal goals and podium time. Congrats to Scott Simpson, for a well-earned 3rd in his division! And thanks to all for taking our Team up to beautiful Traverse City!

Team Hometown Bicycles at Fort Custer Stampede
A TEAM TRIUMPHANT AT FORT CUSTER STAMPEDE

“Stampede” in the Fort Custer Stampede Mountain Bike Race would seem to reference Team Hometown’s en masse charge to the podium last weekend! Olga “The Romanian Rocket” Negrut placed 2nd in her division, Doug Queener took a sweet 3rd in his, and Roger Pelkey nabbed 2nd place with his swift ride! Shout out, too, to Justin Ham who made solid headway in a super challenging Expert class.


Poses, Pedals and Pints tshirts

LOOK FOR US THIS SATURDAY IN DOWNTOWN BRIGHTON!

Do you remember, from earlier newsletters, a little something called Poses, Pedals & Pints? It’s a dream triathlon of yoga, cycling, and beer, and it’s happening this Saturday morning (5/13) in Downtown Brighton. Look for these fun, “smurf” blue event t-shirts (see above) stretching, cycling, and sipping at Brewery Becker!

Hometown’s running the cycling portion, and manning the event with Team volunteers. If you’re at the Farmer’s Market, stop by our tent and say “hello!” Helmet tip to event founder, Tocca Massage & Yoga, and co-sponsors Brewery Becker, Ceo Wilson Agency – Farm Bureau Insurance, Financial Architects, Inc., Lake Trust Credit Union (a personal fave of ours), and Kensington Valley Varsity.

Missed registration? Don’t despair! Plans are underway for future remixes – stay tuned!


Hometown Bicycles at the MCMBA Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day

DON’T YOU JUST LOVE A FIRST CLASS BIKE DEMO??

We sure did this past Saturday, at the MCMBA’s 12th Annual Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day! With a powerhouse combo of Crew and Team (thanks, volunteers!), we made all sorts of new friends and reconnected with old ones. Our Jamis and Framed demo bikes were put through their paces, and got a lotta love from happy cyclists.

Our top kudos to Team Hometown Bicycles’ Steve Steinberg, who chaired this whopper of an MCMBA event. Well ran, Steve… well ran.


MCMBA KEEPS ‘EM COMING – MILFORD BIKE FEST

Milford Bike Festival flierHot on the heels of the MCMBA Demo Day, Hometown’s hitched it’s sponsorship buggy to MCMBA’s Milford Bike Festival & Trail Challenge!

This June 3rd event gives you a day of family-friendly trail/path riding, guided rides (new this year!), live music, food, raffles, and beer. It’s only $20 pre-registered or $25 day-of, with all proceeds benefitting the MCMBA, which VERY actively preserves, protects, and promotes our local parks and mountain bike trails. That’s a worthwhile cause we’re proud to support!

CLICK for details or to register now!


Hometown Bicycles Bike to School Day flier for the Howell Parks and Rec

BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY COMPETITION WINNER

This week, Hometown was a super-geeked Sponsor of Howell Parks & Rec’s Bike to School Day competition, in which Howell elementary schools competed to see who could rally the largest number of students to bike into school Wednesday morning.

Our congrats to Northwest Elementary, which took home the gold with 160 student cyclists. Doesn’t that just make your heart sing?! The future of cycling is looking good, indeed!


Spencer Elementary of Brighton Annual Live Auction and Carnival Fundraiser
(Images courtesy Lisa Sanzica)

SUPERHERO SUCCESS STORY AT SPENCER

Last week, I talked about Hometown’s support of my own elementary alma mater at their “Calling All Superheroes” 29th Annual Live Auction & Spring Carnival.

Since Hometown was running full bore at Demo Day, our Spencer insider, Lisa Sanzica, kindly shared the photos above (thanks, Lisa!), and informed us that the event was an unmitigated success, with a flood of dollars and support for “cultural enrichment programs, field trips, monthly assemblies and updating our playground area.”

Congratulations, Spencer Elementary of Brighton, on a fantastic event, and thanks for allowing us to be a part of your success!


Hometown Bicycles Crew
(This is everyone, sans CycloDan – I promise to Photoshop you in as soon as I get the chance, Dan!)

YOUR HOMETOWN CREW HAS GROWN…

Our Crew is blooming right along with the Spring greenery! Get ready to meet new additions and spot familiar faces over the coming newsletters. Let’s start with a Hometown legend…


Hometown Bicycles Tim Bart

MEET THE CREW: TIM BART

Tim became part of the Hometown family a-WAYYYYYYYYYY back in early 2013. Even back then, he was one of our customers’ favorites – a fact that hasn’t changed in the passing years. Despite his intense scholastic career as a full time engineering student, Tim has found his way back home to Hometown for the summer. You’ll spot him on the floor, being just as much of a stellar resource to our customers as he ever was. Tim says:

Cycling started for me as a mountain biking hobby that sounded like a fun thing to do with my brother. He took me into Hometown to get my first mountain bike and I left that trip with an awesome new bike, and an awesome new job! This led to an obsession to all things bikes and a lifestyle to include cycling as a major part. Through the group rides, the training grind, and the races, Hometown has been by my side and I am proud to call myself part of the Hometown crew and community!


Hometown Bicycles Friday Night Lights shop ride

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (5/12)
8:45PM (meet at 8:30) from Hometown Bicycles
Bring your lights for this mountain bike ride, as we’ll be dashing through the dark at times.  This lively crew will be night cycling Island Lake from Hometown Bicycles and complete the 16 miles in 1.5 hours. They like to change up the scenery, so watch the Hometown Bicycles Newsletter and Facebook for future weekly start location.

NO SATURDAY RIDE – We’ll be at Poses, Pedals & Pints!

NO SUNDAY RIDES – Mother’s Day, but our shop is still open!

MONDAY BEGINNER FRIENDLY ROAD RIDE (5/15)
Sponsored by Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
This is a NO DROP Beginner Friendly road ride. We’ll be traveling the Island Lakes park roads to the well-known “Green Dumpster” and back. ~ 12 – 15 miles. Sound like too much for you? No worries – there will be an early turn-back option for a little less mileage. Bring a light if you have one, though we’re not expecting to need them. Road bikes recommended. All level riders are welcome.

TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE  (5/16)
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
Join Hometown service guru, Dan ‘CycloDan’ Tribble, for this unique, gravel grinding adventure ride.  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 initially for just over an hour, covering 13+ miles at a 12 – 13 mph average pace, with the intention to lengthen the distance as sunset grows later. Gravel, adventure, or mountain/fat bikes required (not appropriate for skinny tires). All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST / SON OF HAMMERFEST (5/17)
This is a DROP RIDE!
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
**New Addition! Meet “Son of Hammerfest” for those that would like to build up to the original Hammerfest.**
SON OF HAMMERFEST:
Rolling at 6:30 from Hometown Bicycles. This will include 25 miles (1 lap of ILRA & the Kensington Loop). Average pace targeted at 17 – 18 mph, with flats of 20+ mph.
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 the roads of Island Lake. Expect the flats pace to range 24 – 28 mph!

For ALL SHOP RIDES, be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmations and updates!


THIS WEEKEND! SPRING SNOWMAN 5K11th Annual Spring Snowman 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run

Spring Snowman 5K Run/Walk is hosted by the Eric Hartwell Foundation, a remarkable organization created by the Hartwell Family (a particularly awesome group of Hometownies) to raise money to “directly support children, diagnosed with Leukemia and other blood disorders, being treated at C.S. Mott’s Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan.” Participants have a chance to win a Jamis bike, donated by Hometown Bicycles. Great cause. Great cross-training. Great prize.

GREAT TIME TO REGISTER, DON’T YOU THINK??


Fred and Kelly Purol doing Vinyasa Yoga with Tocca Massage and Yoga
(Image courtesy Tocca Massage & Yoga. Shout-out to loyal Hometownies Fred & Kelly [middle and right]!)

COMING SOON! YOGA FOR EVERY BODY

Good news for your overworked, under appreciated cycling muscles – Ashley of Tocca Massage & Yoga is bringing her insanely popular Vinyasa Yoga class back to Hometown!

Held in our Community Room, this 3-week, Friday morning fun class starts June 16th at 9am. It’s all about dynamic movement and stretching, not perfection and freaky, double-jointed pretzeling. Whether it’s your first or 500th class, you’ll gain immeasurable benefit from this ancient art made user-friendly. $10 per class.

CLICK HERE to register or email ashley@toccamassage.com.


Team Hometown Bicycles' jersey rider at Island Lake Recreation Area

I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.

– Susan Sontag

Huge Bike Demo This Weekend + Kids Self Defense

Visit Us at Island Lake Demo Day

Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day

IT’S A CYCLISTS’ PLAYGROUND – OF COURSE WE’LL BE THERE!!  
Hometown’s headed to Island Lake this Saturday, May 6th from 10am-5pm, to participate in what has become “one of the largest demo events in the region” – the MCMBA’s Spring Bike Demo Day. From their site:

Started in 2006 by local industry veteran James Knight, the Island Lake Spring Bike Demo is now in its 12th year bringing the best bikes in the market to your trail. It’s a great chance to talk face to face with people who live the life: building, riding, and maintaining the bikes you want to own. Then, take a few out for a test spin on the road and trails at Island Lake, finding the bike that pulls at your heartstrings.

There will be noise. There will be cycling enthusiasts. There will be a sea of bicycles. There will be demo-ing. And there will definitely be Hometown, with a fleet of Jamis and Framed demo bikes for you to test on the familiar trails of ILRA.

CLICK HERE for all the awesome Demo Day details. Can’t wait to see you there!


Triathlons 101 Clinic with Amy Gluck at Hometown Bicycles in Brighton, Michigan

MAY 9 & 11: “TRIATHLON 101” CLINICS WITH AMY GLUCK

Let’s be real, here… a good majority of cyclists flirt with the idea of triathlons. They may or may not admit it to anyone, but there is something inherently intriguing about spanning the sports in one, body-and-mind-challenging event.
Hometown Bicycles' Amy Gluck at a Half Ironman
Hometown’s Amy Gluck has a history in IRONMAN competition, and is back in triathlon training following a life-altering accident. With her background in health and nutrition, an IRONMAN Coaching Certification, and a head-over-heels passion for tri’s, Amy is the perfect person to kick off this newest Hometown clinic.

If you’re on the fence about whether to try a tri, are new to the tri community, or are simply eager to pick up tips from a pro, this info-gathering clinic is for you! NO CHARGE and two days to choose from!

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR TRIATHLON 101 WITH AMY GLUCK
Tuesday, May 9th at 6pm  – OR –  Thursday, May 11th at 6pm
(in the Hometown Bicycles Community Room)


Hometown Bicycles Social Media Guru and Team Hometown Bicycles member, Meghan Terbush
(Images on left courtesy Meghan Terbush)

MEET THE CREW: MEGHAN TERBUSH

Meghan recently joined us, with her online expertise and mad photography ‘skillz’, as Hometown’s official Social Media Guru. Instantly likable and talented to the Nth degree, you’ll spot Meghan – also a gung-ho Team Hometownie – snapping pics for Hometown’s Facebook and NEW Instagram page at many of our rides and events! Meghan says…

I am proud to be a Hometownie! Biking is one of my favorite ways to be active and be engrossed in nature. The first time I learned to ride on two wheels was in my backyard when I was five, wearing a dress. It’s safe to say I’ve learned from my mistakes.

I am a road biker, gravel rider and mountain biker (just getting back into it). I enjoy doing different races and fun rides with my family and friends. One of the greatest things about biking to me is when I am flying down hills with the wind in my face or after completing challenging courses and doing better each time.


Instructor Ian Kinder teaches children safety basics in his Kids Self Defense Class in Hometown Bicycles Community Room

KIDS’ SELF DEFENSE AT HOMETOWN

Live Safe Academy logoWe’ve hosted some remarkable classes, clinics, and programs at our shop, but this easily qualifies as one of the most inherently rewarding.

Instructor Ian Kinder of Live Safe Academy, is running a 4-week children’s self defense class in our Community Room for a group of local elementary students. His messages are skillfully adapted to his young audience, and we’ve been blown away by the practical and in-depth information and hands-on training he provides. Expect to see more of Ian at Hometown – his training spans all ages and genders and is relevant to every one of us.


Brighton Spencer Elementary Live Auction and Spring Carnival header

SUPPORTING SUPERHEROES AT SPENCER

Spencer Elementary Roadrunners logoYou know we love supporting local, family-friendly events, but here’s one that particularly pushes my nostalgia button, since I’m a long-ago graduate of this Brighton elementary school – “Calling All Superheroes” 29th Annual Spencer Elementary Auction and Spring Carnival.

“This event serves as our main fundraiser each year and benefits our children, teachers, and school community by providing funds for our cultural enrichment programs, field trips, monthly assemblies and updating our playground area.”

Join us in supporting this integral part of our local youth Community, or simply learn more about the event by clicking HERE.


Hometown Bicycles Gravel Grinding 101 Shop Ride

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

THURSDAY SOCIAL ROAD RIDE (or coffee at the shop!) (5/4)
10:00AM (meet at 9:45) from Hometown Bicycles
Weather pending, our Social Road ride will hit the back entrance to Island Lake to explore the park roads. (If it rains, join us for a steaming hot coffee and friendly conversation at the shop!) 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.

SATURDAY BEGINNER ROAD RIDE (5/6)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
Come grow with this weekly ride as we start out aiming for 10 – 15 miles and expand as the weeks roll by.  Route will be on the park roads.  Road bikes are preferred for this ride.  All level riders are welcome. Weather could go either way, so be sure to check on Facebook for a pre-ride update!

SUNDAY GRAVEL GRINDER (5/7)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hartland Twp Hall
This week’s gravel ride along beautiful, rolling, country roads, will ease you in with a shorter, flatter route than normal, and ~ 3 miles of pavement (large shoulder on about half). Expect to venture across 29 miles with a 13-15 mph, NO-DROP pace. All bikes are welcome. Meet in lower parking lot (turn right once in the drive): 2655 Clark Rd, Hartland, MI 48353.

SUNDAY EXPLORING TRAILS MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE (5/7)
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. We’ll ride to the back of Island Lake and explore 9 – 15 miles of singletrack. 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. **Location will rotate in future – check on start locations weekly**

MONDAY BEGINNER FRIENDLY ROAD RIDE (5/8)
Sponsored by Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
This is a NO DROP Beginner Friendly road ride. We’ll be traveling the Island Lakes park roads to the well-known “Green Dumpster” and back. ~ 12 – 15 miles. Sound like too much for you? No worries – there will be an early turn-back option for a little less mileage. Bring a light if you have one, though we’re not expecting to need them. Road bikes recommended. All level riders are welcome.

TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE  (5/9)
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
Join Hometown service guru, Dan ‘CycloDan’ Tribble, for this unique, gravel grinding adventure ride.  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 initially for just over an hour, covering 13+ miles at a 12 – 13 mph average pace, with the intention to lengthen the distance as sunset grows later. Gravel, adventure, or mountain/fat bikes required (not appropriate for skinny tires). All levels of riders are welcome – NO DROP RIDE.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST / SON OF HAMMERFEST (5/10)
This is a DROP RIDE!
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
**New Addition! Meet “Son of Hammerfest” for those that would like to build up to the original Hammerfest.**
SON OF HAMMERFEST:
Rolling at 6:30 from Hometown Bicycles. This will include 25 miles (1 lap of ILRA & the Kensington Loop). Average pace targeted at 17 – 18 mph, with flats of 20+ mph.
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 the roads of Island Lake. Expect the flats pace to range 24 – 28 mph!

For ALL SHOP RIDES, be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmations and updates!


Hometown Bicycles' Meghan Terbush and her Jamis bike on the Island Lake trails

Travel far enough,
you meet yourself.

– David Mitchell

THIS SATURDAY: You’re Invited to Hometown’s 7th Birthday Bash

Party balloons

Hometown Bicycles then and now... Happy 7th Birthday!

IT’S OUR BIGGEST, FAMILY-FRIENDLIEST, HOMETOWNIEST EVENT TO DATE
This Saturday, April 15th marks 7 incredible years of Hometown adventures and growth, from propping a sandwich board with a crudely painted “Shaun’s Bike Shop” in front of our original, tiny service shop, to throwing a community-sized 7th birthday bash at our roller-rink-sized bicycle adventure center. Through it all, you’ve been right along with us for the ride, and this weekend’s celebration is in honor of what your loyalty has created!

Here’s what’s on the party roster…

MarkerALL DAY – A chance to make your mark on Hometown Bicycles! All customers who make a purchase the day of the event – and going forward – will be immortalized by signing their name on our “I Support Hometown Bicycles!” support pillars!

ALL DAY – Fantastic deals!

Jamis Earth CruiserALL DAY – Unveiling the 10 bicycles that Hometown Bicycles is donating to this year’s 10th Anniversary Tour de Livingston to raise money and awareness for Livingston County United Way.

9:00 AM – Doors open. Early bird door prizes, including some especially cool swag from Team Sponsor, Pro-Motion Physical Therapy!

Easter egg11:00 AMEaster Egg Hunt on the front lawn for kids up through 5th grade – with candy, stickers, and toy surprises in abundance! (No cost to participate!)

11:30 AMEaster Egg Hunt in the shop for adults of all ages – with candy, stickers, and some awesome surprise deals for diligent hunters! (No cost to participate!)

Grill foodNOONLunch on the grill (it’s free!) and lawn games, courtesy of Team Sponsor Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp.

2:00 PMFamily-friendly, casual road ride from the shop. This is a relaxed, ride-your-own-pace sort of slow roll with good friends and great conversation!

Kids t-shirt4:00 PM – Announcing the winner of our Jr. Hometownie T-Shirt Design Contest. Be sure to check out all the amazing entries that will be hanging in our Community Room!

5:00 PM – All good things must come to an end, but we’ll be here bright and early on Monday morning to help you get to your Happy Place! Happy Easter, Hometownies!!

Bring everyone you know, bring your bike, and definitely bring your sense of fun! This is going to be one for the record books!!

Party balloons


BONUS BIRTHDAY BASH NOTES:

Hometown Bicycles in the Livingston County Daily Press & ArgusWE’LL BE IN THE NEWS!  We’re honored to have Livingston Daily Press & Argus running a story on Hometown Bicycles and our family-friendly birthday event in this week’s paper. Thanks, Livingston Daily! Hometownies, stay on the lookout for our story!

Parking signADDITIONAL EVENT PARKING:  Our friends across the road at American Spirit Centre have generously offered us the use of their parking lot this Saturday for overflow event parking. If you do use their lot, please respect our veterans, and leave the front parking spaces for those who served our Country. Thank you!


JR. HOMETOWNIE T-SHIRT CONTEST DEADLINE EXTENDED

Junior Hometownie artist Abby Wheeler and her family came by to drop off her entry into the Jr. Hometownie T-Shirt ContestCreativity takes time – we get that! Upon popular request, we’re extending our deadline for the Jr. Hometownie T-Shirt Design Contest to April 14.

CHECK OUT THE CONTEST DETAILS HERE!

The winner will be announced at Hometown’s April 15th Birthday Bash, and their winning design will grace a limited edition run of Jr. Hometownie t-shirts! They’ll receive a complimentary Jr. Hometownie t-shirt, and will be featured in our weekly newsletter and website. ALL participants get an official Hometown sticker, and will be mentioned on our website.

(Photo at left: Jr. Hometownie artist, Abby, brought her family along to drop off her colorful Contest entry!)


Team Hometown Bicycles at The Lowell 50 Classic Gravel Road Race
(From left: Rex Blair, Brian Forhan, Joe VanGordon, Deb Godmer, Jim Cleer, Mark Lang, & Linc Werhly)

TEAM HOMETOWN GIVES LOVE TO THE LOWELL 50

Seven of our intrepid Team members biked the challenging, but scenic dirt roads of The Lowell 50 Classic Gravel Road Race (see above photo). It was a challenging field, but the Team dubbed it a fantastic race – definitely one to do again.

A “whoop-whoop!” goes out to Team member, Joe Ostervik, who took the jersey on the road at the first race in the Waterford Hills Road Racing Spring Training Series.


Cub Scout Pack 365 earns their Bicycle Safety Merit Badge at Hometown Bicycles with Shaun Bhajan
(Photos courtesy and used with the permission of Tiger Cub Scout Pack 365)

CUB SCOUT BIKE SAFETY MERIT BADGE – COMPLETED!

Tiger Cub Scout Pack 365 contacted us with a mission – to earn their Rolling Tigers Bicycle Safety Merit Badge with the help of Hometown. We LOVE investing in the future of cycling, and these kids are exactly that… cycling’s energetic future!

Congrats on earning your Badge, Pack 365. You made this experience FUN!


IMBA's National Mountain Bike Patrol training took place right here at Hometown Bicycles

FEELING SAFER BY THE MINUTE – MCMBA BIKE PATROL

National Mountain Bike Patrol Training is no cakewalk – nor should it be… it’s about saving lives, preserving trails, and promoting the sport – and we saw a group of volunteer heroes put through their paces at last weekend’s intensive class here at Hometown. Happily, we had both the classroom and the on-site trails to accommodate!

Our congratulations and thanks to the men and women who have stepped up to keep us and our trails safe! If you’re interested in learning more about Bike Patrol, CLICK HERE.


Hometown Bicycles shop ride

Family Friendly Road Ride – THIS SATURDAY

SATURDAY, APRIL 15TH – 2:00 P.M. – MEET UP AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES
This is the ride that’s a part of our big Hometown Bicycles Birthday Bash! Easy pace and limited miles, this ride is about socializing and enjoying the Spring weather. A great ride for the whole family!

Our regular group rides will start up again after Easter. Stay tuned! Be sure to FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for ride confirmation and details.


Team Hometown Bicycles at The Lowell 50 Gravel Road Race

When in doubt,
pedal it out.

– Anonymous

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