Birthday Photos, Barry Results, and Earth Day Activities

Posted on April 27, 2018 by Shaun

A VISUAL HAYRIDE THROUGH HOMETOWN’S 8TH BIRTHDAY PARTY
Last Sunday’s BIG Hometown birthday bash was a thing of beauty… full-out Spring and over 100 in attendance! It was a sight to be seen, so I’ve pulled together a few photo highlights to give you a flavor for the fun that was had! (Special thanks to Team member, Paula Zimmer, for good-naturedly stepping into the role of event photographer!)

ABOVE: The day kicked off with birthday gifts, games, and prizes for all of the loyal Hometownies who came to celebrate with us!

ABOVE: No Hometown party would be complete without a birthday bike ride! This one was hopping with eager beavers who’d been just itching for warm weather to hit.

ABOVE: Grill Master Mike worked his behind-the-grill wizardry yet again, serving up a delicious stream of hot dog after burger after hot dog to a whole lotta hungry Hometownies. Birthday cake added a sweet finale to a perfect party picnic.

ABOVE: Helena was a personable and welcome addition to our family event, spreading the word and answering questions about Make-A-Wish’s famous Wish-A-Mile charitable bike tour. We also had a Hometown first, courtesy of the Andres family – first baby tooth to fall out at one of our events! (Hope the tooth fairy was generous!)

ABOVE: The best part of any Hometown event is the friendships forged and memories shared.

Hometownies, I told you presents weren’t necessary, but you went ahead and gave us a tidal wave of loyalty, love, and other heart-warming sentiments to remind us of why we do what we’re doing and who we’re doing it for anyway. Thanks so much for coming out to celebrate with us. Happy 8th Birthday, Hometown Bicycles!

DAWN GETS TO THINKIN’…

If you’ve been a regular reader of these newsletters, you know that, every now and then, I get bit by the contemplation bug. Turns out, eight years of awesome makes your newsletter correspondent reflective…

I’ve been thinking – vanity or not, I’m button-busting proud of our shop. Intensely proud. Hometown is unmatched for loyalty. We may be “small”, but we’re resourceful. We may be young, but we’re hard-core committed. We may be boat-rockers, but we’re changing the landscape of what customers should and do expect from their bike shop. We’re fake-free, we operate with integrity, and we roll with a strong belief in karma.

I consider it a reality of Hometown that for every ounce of pride I feel, YOU should carry it in equal measure. We are, to a large degree, a reflection of you! Shaun and I and the Crew can give it all we’ve got, but Hometown doesn’t amount to diddly without you giving it wheels to roll on.

Every time you tell a friend to shop here, share our fliers, and bring someone along on a shop ride, you’re literally growing Hometown… AND your ownership in it. Every time you spend a dollar here, you’re making an investment in developing a resource – YOUR resource – for all things cycling. You’re basically telling the world what kind of shop you deserve, and building it along the way!

I really believe that’s the coolest thing about Hometown – in so many ways, its a by-the-people-for-the-people type thing. You’re “the people”. You’re HOMETOWN people. And that is definitely something you can be proud of.

Thanks again for supporting us eight year’s strong, Hometownies… here’s to the next eight!

(A few of the happy Hometownies who enjoyed the great weather at this year’s Barry Roubaix!)

TEAM NEWS: HAVING A “BARRY” GOOD TIME

An extraordinary 28 Team Hometown riders (that’s over a quarter of our Team! WOW!) raced last Saturday at the world’s largest gravel road bike race, Barry-Roubaix. They left their mark on the course, and I’m not just talking about tire tracks in the “plush”, freshly graded roadways!

Seven times, our Team took the podium. Congratulations go to Meghan Terbush and Jordan Richter, placing 2nd and 4th consecutively in their division; Roger Pelkey nabbed 5th place in his age group; Colin Chisholm owned his age group’s 3rd place position; Jack Riddle and Joe Ostervik killed it with 1st and 2nd in their division; and Jack Riddle podiumed again in 4th place OVERALL, thanks to his 5 minute lead!

We are “Barry” proud of you, Team! (Ok, ok – I’ll stop!) Be sure to check out the race photos on our Facebook page. Now, it’s on to Mud, Sweat & Beers – tally-ho!

HOMETOWN HELPS WITH MiSCA LEADERSHIP TRAINING

We’d also like to give a shout out to avid Team Hometownie and cyclist, Jean Steinberg, who gave up the chance to party hearty with us last weekend, so that she could advance the future of youth cycling!

Jean worked with about 20 MiSCA coaches on Ride Leading and Teaching MTB Skills as part of the new 2018 Coach Training program, which was held in a small local park in East Grand Rapids. Way to support the future of our sport, Jean!

HOMETOWN DOES EARTH DAY AT THE MILLPOND

With the weather creeping back towards lovable, last Saturday’s Downtown Brighton Earth Day expo found Hometown Service Tech Joe running Tire Toss in a t-shirt at this environmental awareness event. Our thanks to Dave Richardson and the Greater Brighton Area Chamber Environmental Council, for the opportunity to participate!

(Between kayaking the Millpond with Heavner Canoe & Kayak Rental, eating flowers – no joke! – with Stone Coop Farm, meeting the green folk at Whatever It Takes Sanctuary, and admiring the owl and fowl brought by Howell Nature Center, the kids and I had an absolute blast!)

WE’RE HIRING – STOP IN AND APPLY!
Creating the magic of Hometown is no small thing, and we don’t hire lightly, but we do offer positions that are meaningful and make a real difference in the lives of customers, our community, and the cycling industry. We currently have openings for:

Part-Time Social Media Specialist
Helps market and share the Hometown culture on social media. Must be social media savvy, highly organized, an excellent writer, and skilled in photography. Graphic design skills a plus.

Part-Time Events Coordinator
Coordinates and manages on- and off-premises shop events of all types. Must be highly organized, creative, detail-oriented, an excellent communicator, sociable, and enthusiastic.

Full- and Part-Time Service Techs
Provides reliably outstanding technical bike service. Some technical knowledge preferred. Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, focused, and a quick learner.

Full- and Part-Time Sales Associates
Provides reliably outstanding customer service, including sales, cashiering, and shop organization and cleanliness. Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, sociable, enthusiastic, and a quick study.

Drop by our shop, introduce yourself, and pick up an application. You’ll never know unless you try!

THIS WEEK’S SHOP RIDES

Pop-Up Mountain Bike Ride – Intermediate/Advanced
SATURDAY, APR 28 | 10AM (MEET BY 9:45AM) | FROM JANOWSKI FIELD TRAILHEAD
Join us as we explore some brand new trail in Proud Lake, riding a new connector around the campground that links Proud Lake to Hickory Glen. We will also head into the hidden gem of Milford Trail. Plan for ~15-20 miles. Meet at Janowski Field Trailhead, 301 Peters Rd., Milford (between GM and Commerce Roads). Check Facebook for Ride confirmation and changes!

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Hartland Gravel Grinder – Intermediate/Advanced
SUNDAY, APR 29 | 9:00AM (MEET BY 8:45AM) | FROM HARTLAND TWP HALL
Come enjoy beautiful, HILLY country roads and wonderful ride company. Expect several TOUGH, LONG CLIMBS, at an average 14 – 15 MPH pace for all 28.2 miles. The group may split into 2, with the front pack averaging > 15 mph. (Check out Dan’s Gravel Grinding 101 ride for a less grueling option.) Cross/Gravel, Mountain and Fat bikes are welcome. Meet in the Hartland Twp. Hall lower parking lot (turn right once in the drive) at 2655 Clark Rd. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

***Rent a Fat Bike at the shop!***

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Beginner Friendly Road Ride
MONDAY, APR 30 | 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, MAY 1 | 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. Bring a cadence sensor, speed sensor, and heart rate monitor. No Drop! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Ladies’ Road Ride
TUESDAY, MAY 1 | 6:30PM (MEET BY 6:15PM) | 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, MAY 2 | 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!

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Ladies Only Beginner Mountain Bike Ride
THURSDAY, MAY 3 | 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!

CLICK HERE for our 2018 Spring/Summer Daily Shop Rides Schedule!

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

I have a thing for tools. (So do we, Tim!)

~ Tim Allen
Be sure to check out the limited edition Home Improvement bike on loan from Bruce & Betsy of Advanced Metal Alloy when you drop your bike off for a tune-up. One of only 201 in the world!

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: Andres family, Barry Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race, bicycle repair, bicycle service, bicycle shop, bicycles, bike repair, bike rides, bike service, bike shop, bikes, birthday cake, birthday party, Brighton, Cardio Drumming, coach training program, Colin Chisholm, cycling, cyclists, earth day celebration, fitness classes, Greater Brighton Area Chamber Environmental Council, grill master, group rides, Heavner Canoe and Kayak Rental, Helena Hunt, Home Improvement, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownies, Howell Nature Center, Jack Riddle, joe ostervik, Jordan Richter, Joy Andres, Leslie Barrett, Make-A-Wish Michigan, Martha Soraruf, Meghan Terbush, Michigan, Mike Hoffner, Millpond, misca, Mud Sweat and Beers, party pics, Paul Andres, Roger Pelkey, shop rides, Stone Coop Farm, Team Hometown Bicycles, Tim Allen, Whatever It Takes Sanctuary, wish a mile, zumba | Leave a comment »

A Community of Awesome

Posted on August 10, 2017 by Shaun

AND YOU’RE A KEY MEMBER…
As our to-the-core Hometownie Team and Crew member, Meghan Terbush, wrote in a recent Facebook post:

The stories that flow through this place astonish us and touch us to the core. Hometown Bicycles is so much more than a bike shop, but a community full of wonderful people who enjoy having an active lifestyle. Let’s gain some recognition for why YOU all make this the Best Bike Shop! Vote your shop to be #1: https://www.clickondetroit.com/vote4thebest#/gallery/67648732/

In honor of this incredible Hometown community, we’ve packed this newsletter to the gills with stories about YOU – customers, Team, AND Crew.

And if you’d like to see some recognition for the bike shop that YOU helped create, please put your hearts-and-souls into it, and vote HOURLY through the final Vote 4 the Best tally this Sunday. Get others involved! Spread the word! You have the gratitude of an entire Hometown community behind you!!

AUGUST 27 LABOR EVENT: ADD IT TO YOUR CALENDAR!

With Labor Day just around the corner, it seems only fitting to pay tribute to the core of what we do – bicycle labor! Service is where we started, service is where we excel, and service is what our upcoming, Sunday, August 27thevent is all about!

Hometown Bicycles 1st Annual Pre-Labor Day Labor Event, running 1pm-5pm, will feature “labor stations” throughout the shop for ask-the-expert Q&A, demos, and cool tune-up tips; limited edition coupons; a treasure hunt, a chance to pit your wits and skills against our bike gurus’, and other opportunities to win prizes; and even a bike wash, with proceeds to benefit a local charity!

Look for further details in next week’s newsletter but, for heaven’s sake, get it on your calendar now!!

(Image courtesy Mike Dyer)

HOMETOWN VISITS BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK, IN

Our first story comes from the breathtaking hillscape of Brown County State Park in Indiana, where Team members Mike Dyer, Paul Andres, Jim Thompson, Keith Cowgar, and friend Andrew set aside racing for a bike-based “guys weekend”. Mike writes:

All I can say is it was a hell of an adventure. We made it out in one piece. No major injuries just some cuts, scrapes and bruises. Paul wins the most wounds of the weekend, and I win the most spectacular crash with a big endo over a rock garden!

(Photo credit: © Copyright Tom Demerly)

AMY’S BLOG: AUGUST 11, 2017

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 one will give you goosebumps…

Getting running back has been my biggest struggle following my accident. It’s so frustrating watching my pace crash when I check my results after races. I’m doing EVERYTHING I can to recuperate my running… but sometimes I wonder if it’s really worth it. Do I really need to come back to Ironman racing, or was surviving this accident good enough? But it’s all I knew before my accident. It’s all I did. What keeps me motivated is… READ ON

Amy’s full blogs are posted HERE on our website.

(Images courtesy Miles & Ann Janicki)

HAPPY 32 YEARS, MILES & ANN!

This next story hails from a wonderful couple who have been Hometownies to a remarkable degree. Miles and Ann Janicki recently took Hometown (and their trusty Jamis bikes!) with them on an especially meaningful adventure on the west side of our beautiful State:

We’re celebrating our 32nd wedding anniversary in Hometown style! We’ve enjoyed being part of the Hometown family for the last seven of those years, and were just noticing today how the jerseys show the growth of sponsorship and community outreach, from the time of the original until now. Great work Hometown team!

(Images courtesy Dan & Vanessa Smith)

A DYNAMIC DAD-SON DUO IN DAN & DONALD

Here’s another couple of exceptional Hometownies – a father-son duo – who embrace cycling for the joy it brings, the sportsmanship it inspires, and the bond it creates. Powered by the wonderful support of wife and mother, Vanessa, Dan and Donald Smith shared this awesome write-up on why they ride:

Riding bikes is second nature to [Dan and Donald]. For Dan, riding is more than just exercise. He uses cycling as stress relief, a way to challenge himself, and also a way to travel to and explore new places with MMBA races. Most importantly, Dan rides to have fun with family and friends. When Donald was asked why he rides, he did not know how to respond right away. Riding is part of who he is as a person, he identifies himself as a biker rider. When asked to dig deeper… he loves the feeling of going down a big hill, riding with his dad, using his Garmin to go faster each time he rides on the Blue and Yellow trails at Island Lake, and of course the cheering as he races by people… READ THEIR FULL STORY

(Images courtesy Colin & Cynthia Chisholm)

COLIN & CYNTHIA FLIP CANCER THE BIRD

We loved the cheek and defiant artistry of The “Eff Cancer!” Ride, organized by clever Team members Colin and Cynthia Chisholm. They used approximately 25 miles to “stick it” to a disease that has touched so many, and wrapped up the evening with a grill out at their home. As Hometown Ride Coordinator Jean put it, “It was intense to feel the pain of riding and think it was nothing to those we know, love, and may have lost going through cancer.” Kudos on your creativity, Colin and Cynthia!

(Images courtesy Sarah & Jeff Short)

THE SHORT-INATORS: SARAH & JEFF’S BIG DAY

We count Sarah and Jeff among our most loyal Hometown and Jamis ambassadors – with a passion for both that warms us down to our bike clips. We’re so proud of their recent adventure, made possible by a remarkable dedication to training, healthfulness, and support of each other. You guys are an inspiration!

Jeffrey Short and I competed in the Shermanator Aquabike in Battle Creek, MI this morning. 500 meter swim, 10 mile bike. Beautiful day and Jeff and I both finished in the Women’s and Men’s Aquabike as overall champs!!! So proud. I won first place overall too!!! What a day! Hard work pays off. Next up Tawas Aquabike!!! Woot woot!

YOUR HOMETOWN CREW’S GRAND ADVENTURES

We’d also love to give a shout out to the cycling fanaticism of your very own Hometown Crew – from Jean Steinberg, who’s about to race Ore-to-Shore with one particularly awesome sister; to Meghan Terbush, who’s mountain biking the U.P. with her impressively adventurous family; to Evan Nelson, who’s cycling amongst palm trees down in Florida; to Chris Buddingh, who’s been bikepacking the past couple weeks with his lovely wife; to Joel Rushlow, who’s about to embark on a multi-day solo bike expedition across MI (stay tuned for his story in our next email!); to Hometown’s high school crew members, who are training for their first MISCA mountain bike race of the season!

What can we say? WE LOVE CYCLING!!

PLEASE VOTE HOURLY THROUGH AUGUST 13TH!

(Image courtesy Evan Nelson)

MEET YOUR CREW: EVAN NELSON

We thought we were well-versed in active people, but we seriously question whether Evan even sleeps – he’s involved in SO many things! He recently graduated from a high school career overflowing with DECA Club presidencies, school store management, crosswalk lobbying (ask him about this!), athletic endeavors, and even pie-making, just to name a few. We’ve been geeked to add “Hometown Events Associate” to his Renaissance-ian laundry list of skills and activities. Evan writes:

I strive to be active and started seriously riding bikes a few years ago. I love riding mountain bikes because of the challenges different terrain present.

I also enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, running, and Scuba diving. Anything high energy and outdoors!

AUGUST 19: NEED FOR SPEED KID’S TIME TRIAL

Parents, here’s a must-try for your mini-cyclists!

Think you have what it takes to be the fastest bike in town?SELCRA, in conjunction with Hometown Bicycles, is hosting the Inaugural “Need for Speed” Bike Challenge. Participants will compete in 3 time trials around the outdoor track. Prizes for top finishers in each age category. Other activities include, inflatables, Arts-n-Crafts, Food Trucks.

Held at Meijer Skate Park in Brighton, this bike race is for boys and girls, ages 5 and up. A short and sweet, looped course will take them over flat terrain, with great visibility for spectating families and friends!

REGISTER YOUR KID(S) NOW FOR THE “NEED FOR SPEED” BIKE CHALLENGE!

AUGUST 19: DOC MAY MEMORIAL MELON RIDE

Hometown’s been proud to be the ongoing sponsor of this charming and delicious, Doc May Memorial Melon Ride on Saturday, August 19th at 9am.

Our Team and Crew marks off the route, leads and mans the ride, provides on-site SAG support, and also offers bike valet service until 2pm, so you can enjoy the Festival without worrying about your two-wheeled babies! T-shirts, melon and ice cream for participants!

Lock in your registration now – which puts you in the running to win the sweet Jamis cruiser bike that we’ve donated to the cause! REGISTER NOW!

AUGUST 19: SINGLES RIDE

I know!! August 19th is one happening day!! Whether you opt to dip your spoons into the post-ride deliciousness of Melon Fest ice cream, or cheer on the wheeled kiddies at SELCRA’s 1st Annual Need for Speed event, if you’re single and over 18, consider your evening booked!

On Saturday, August 19th, we’ll meet at 4:30pm at the shop for a conversation-friendly, recreational road ride over the well-loved roads of Island Lake. (Crummy weather? No problem! We’ll switch it to movie night at the shop!) We’re manning this “no drop” ride with (single!) Team members and Hometown crew. Be sure to pack a lawn chair and beverage for a post-ride, campfire, singles mingle behind the shop!

Details can be found HERE. You must be single and over 18 in order to participate. If you’d like to be kept in the loop about future Hometown singles rides and activities, send me an email: office@myhometownbicycles.com. And please be sure to share our Facebook eventwith all of your friends – the more cyclists we get, the better your odds!

THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL…

I want to take a moment here to congratulate a pioneering group of women, who made new friends and Hometown history as the fabulous first participants in Hometown’s new, women-specific rides and events. Ladies, you made this ride GREAT, and we can’t wait to get to know you better, and share more adventures with you, going forward!

Our Women’s Road Ride is open to all ladies, at nearly all levels of riding – CLICK HERE to learn more, and to find out how to join us next Tuesday evening!

POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION: IT’S A GO!!

Good news… no, FANTASTIC news!! The uber-successful yoga-bike-beer event that we supported this past Spring has been resurrected for a round 2 on Saturday, September 30th.

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.

Registration is limited to 50, so if you missed out last time, be sure to hit the link below, like, IMMEDIATELY!
REGISTER NOW FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (8/11)
9:00PM (meet at 8:45) from Maltby Intermediate School (4740 Bauer Rd. in Brighton)
It’s time to explore! 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 (8/12)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles
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 (8/13)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hartland Township Hall
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 (8/13)
4:30PM (meet at 4:15) from Brighton Rec Trailhead – **NEW LOCATION!**
This is a Beginner Friendly mountain bike trail ride which will encourage riders to visit new trails as their skill level increases. We’ll meet at the Brighton Rec Trailhead, head out to the Appleton 2 mile beginner loop and then explore the Murray Lake Trail. 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 (8/14)
Sponsored by Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) 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. Click to check out the Facebook event page!

Please make sure you have some experience riding the bike you bring to this ride and are comfortable with the way it handles, including basic shifting and braking, for the safety of all. Beyond that, our friendly ride support are delighted to share tips on how to make the hills easier and the flats faster – just ask!

TUESDAY GRAVEL GRINDING 101 WITH ‘CYCLODAN’ TRIBBLE (8/15)
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) 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.

**NEW-ISH RIDE!** TUESDAY WOMEN’S ROAD RIDE (8/15)
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
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, 10mph pace. All bikes welcome, 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.

WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST (8/16)
This is a DROP RIDE!
**No Son of Hammerfest this week**
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) 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! Check Facebook for ride updates.

WEDNESDAY SLOW ROLL (8/16)
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
Dial it back on this social, slow paced road ride (~ 8-10 mph). If you have a need-for-speed, this is NOT the ride for you! Bring your cruiser or whatever you like as we Slow Roll down sidewalks and streets. Expect to cross Grand River, possibly a couple climbs/descents, and beautiful park landscape. May not be suitable for young, unseasoned kids. Parents, please decide what is safe for your family, as there are no lights or designated crosswalks for Grand River or Academy. This is a NO DROP ride. Check HERE for ride details.

THURSDAY SOCIAL MORNING ROAD RIDE (8/17)
9:00AM (meet at 8:45) from Hometown Bicycles – **NEW START TIME**
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 back for ride confirmation/changes due to weather.

**NEW POP-UP RIDE!** SATURDAY SINGLES ROAD RIDE (8/19)
RAIN OR SHINE! If it rains, we’ll simply switch to movie night at the shop!
4:45PM (arrive at 4:15 to meet your fellow singles!) from Hometown Bicycles
This ride is all about making connections, so we’re keeping it conversation-friendly with a recreational road ride leaving from Hometown Bicycles, and traveling over the well-loved roads of Island Lake. Expect approx. 14 miles round trip at a 10mph pace. All bikes welcome. We’ll have this ride well-staffed by (single!) Team members and Hometown crew, so no one will get left behind. (NO DROP RIDE!)

Pack a lawn chair and beverage for a post-ride, campfire, singles mingle behind the shop. We’ll keep the shop open for helmet-hair damage control and calls of nature. MUST BE SINGLE & OVER 18 TO PARTICIPATE. Be sure to follow our Facebook event page for ride updates and weather-related info.

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 with Martha Soraruf at Hometown Bicycles CARDIO DRUMMING | Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 6:45PM
$5 class fee / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf
Click to learn more

DYNAMIC YOGA | Fridays – August 4, 11 & 18
$10 drop in – With Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga
Click to learn more

Zumba with Leslie Barrett at Hometown Bicycles 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

Take only memories, leave only treadprints.

– Adapted from Chief Seattle

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: Amy Gluck, amy's blog, anniversary, aquabike, Ashley Knuth, beginner rides, best bike shop, bicycle repair, bicycle service, bicycle shop, bicycle tune up, bicycles, bike challenge, bike repair, bike rides, bike service, bike shop, bike tune-up, bikes, Brewery Becker, Brown County State Park, Cardio Drumming, chris buddingh, Colin and Cynthia Chisholm, cycling, cyclists, Doc May Memorial Melon Ride, EFF Cancer ride, Evan Nelson, financing, fitness classes, gravel grinder, group rides, Hammerfest, Hometown Bicycles, Hometown Bicycles 1st Annual Pre Labor Day Labor Event, Hometownie, Indiana, Jean Steinberg, Jeff and Sarah Short, Jim Thompson, Joel Rushlow, Keith Cowgar, kids bike race, Leslie Barrett, Martha Soraruf, Meghan Terbush, mike dyer, Miles and Ann Janicki, misca, Need for Speed, Ore-to-Shore, Paul Andres, Poses Pedals and Pints, running, Saturday Singles, SELCRA, Shermanator, shop rides, singles ride, synchrony, Team Hometown Bicycles, time trial, Tocca Massage and Yoga, Vanessa Dan and Donald Smith, Vote 4 the best, women only ride, womens road ride, yoga, zumba | Leave a comment »

Huge Bike Demo This Weekend + Kids Self Defense

Posted on May 4, 2017 by Shaun

Visit Us at Island Lake 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!

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’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)

(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.

KIDS’ SELF DEFENSE AT HOMETOWN

We’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.

SUPPORTING SUPERHEROES AT SPENCER

You 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 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!

Travel far enough,
you meet yourself.

– David Mitchell

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: Amy Gluck, beginner road ride, bicycle shop, bicycles, bicycling, bike rides, bike shop, bikes, Brighton, Calling All Superheroes, clinic, Community Room, cycling, cyclists, CycloDan Tribble, Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride, facebook, family friendly, Framed, gravel grinder, gravel grinding, group rides, Hammerfest, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownie, Ian Kinder, ILRA, Instagram, Ironman, Island Lake, Jamis, kids self defense, Live Safe Academy, livingston county, local, MCMBA, Meghan Terbush, Michigan, Roadrunners, shop rides, Social Media Guru, social road ride, Son of Hammerfest, Spencer Elementary, Spring Bike Demo Day, Team Hometown Bicycles, Triathlon 101 | Leave a comment »

Hometown Bicycles

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Hometown Bicycles

Visit Our Store!

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DAWN GETS TO THINKIN’…

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HOMETOWN DOES EARTH DAY AT THE MILLPOND

I have a thing for tools. (So do we, Tim!)

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AMY’S BLOG: AUGUST 11, 2017

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A DYNAMIC DAD-SON DUO IN DAN & DONALD

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THE SHORT-INATORS: SARAH & JEFF’S BIG DAY

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PLEASE VOTE HOURLY THROUGH AUGUST 13TH!

MEET YOUR CREW: EVAN NELSON

AUGUST 19: NEED FOR SPEED KID’S TIME TRIAL

AUGUST 19: DOC MAY MEMORIAL MELON RIDE

THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL…

POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – FALL EDITION: IT’S A GO!!

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN

Take only memories, leave only treadprints.

Share this:

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Huge Bike Demo This Weekend + Kids Self Defense

Visit Us at Island Lake Demo Day

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

MEET THE CREW: MEGHAN TERBUSH

KIDS’ SELF DEFENSE AT HOMETOWN

SUPPORTING SUPERHEROES AT SPENCER

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

Travel far enough, you meet yourself.

Share this:

Like this:

Since We Opened

Overall Repair Count

Thank you, 2019/2020 Team Sponsors!

Travel far enough,
you meet yourself.