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    Brighton, MI 48116
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    Tuesday: Closed
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    Thursday: 10 AM - 7 PM
    Friday: 10 AM - 7 PM
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    Sunday: 10 AM - 5 PM

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    -----------------------------

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Jamis Demo 5/23 at Island Lake

BE ONE OF THE FIRST!

Test Ride Jamis’ New 3VO Suspension

JAMIS DEMO DAY: Thu, May 23rd, 2-6 PM @ Island Lake

Jamis

Jamis Bikes and Hometown Bicycles are teaming up to co-host this AWESOME event at Island Lake State Recreation Area. Check out the latest Hardline® and Portal® 3VO Suspension bikes, as well as the Renegade, the suburb and versatile adventure bike, in both steel and carbon!

Be sure to bring the following:

  • Drivers license
  • Credit card
  • Helmet
  • Optional – your own pedals

Stop by the Hometown tent to chat with our knowledgeable Hometown crew and volunteers from Team Hometown Bicycles! 


Island Lake Demo Day was an absolute blast!

Island Lake Demo Day

What a fun and BEAUTIFUL spring day we had on Saturday, May 4th at Island Lake Demo Day! Over 400 bicycle enthusiasts attended the event.

We are incredibly proud of Team Hometown Bicycles for their volunteerism at the event; we literally plastered the park with the smiling faces of our Team. Amazing job, Steve Steinberg and everyone else who gave their time!

Hometown was able to gift $122 to the Motor City Mountain Biking Association (MCMBA)through visitor donations from our Hot Dog Lunch. 

Looking forward to next year already!


Team Hometown representin’!
The 10th anniversary of Mud, Sweat and Beers took place on Saturday, May 4th in Traverse City. This Fat Tire Fest is an annual springtime fundraiser for Mt. Holiday, a not-for-profit organization focused on providing affordable winter and summer recreational opportunities for the youth – in particular the underprivileged. 

Team Hometown Bicycles

Team Hometown was represented by (from left to right): Paul Andres, Jim Thompson, Scooter Gates, Mike Dyer, Andy Showerman, Erik Frazier, Brad Allen and Keith “Super Star” Cowgar. (Kevin Muchuga and Scott Simpson raced but are not pictured.) Keith Cowgar finished first in his age class and Scott Simpson won the SS/Fixie class. Please note that the group is proudly displaying #doitfordan armbands in honor of Dan Horal.

Team Hometown Bicycles

In other Team news… Hometownie John Harrington (left) took 3rd at the Fort Custer Stampede on Sunday, May 5th in Augusta, Michigan. Excellent job, John!


Advocacy Day!
Wednesday, May 22 at 8 AM at the State Capitol in Lansing

Bicycle Advocacy Day

Advocacy Day is a unique opportunity for road cyclists and trail users of all abilities – casual riders and die-hards alike – to speak with one voice to help make Michigan bicycling better. Hosted by the League of Michigan Bicyclists (LMB) in partnership with the Michigan Trails and Greenways AllianceMichigan Mountain Biking Association and PEAC, this collaborative effort brings supporters of all four organizations together to educate legislators on key policy issues that facilitate a more bicycle-friendly Michigan.

This year’s priorities:

1) Reduce distracted driving and make cyclists safer by winning passage of a hands-free law, which would put significant penalties in place for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

2) Protect funding for non-motorized transportation by pushing back against House Bill 4410 – legislation aimed at eliminating the long-standing requirement for Michigan road agencies to spend one percent of their annual transportation funds on non-motorized safety projects.

Register HERE and make a difference!


Hometown is hoppin’ with involvement in community events!

Check out these fun, family-friendly events coming up SOON. We love being part of them and hope to see YOU there.

Milford Bike Fest– Saturday, June 1 (registration begins at 7 AM) 

MCMBA brings you this exciting day exploring the trails of Milford and enjoying live music at Main Street Grill & Tavern! Hometown will be on site for bike support, as well as leading a guided ride at 9 AM with Hometownie Tom Hermann. Back by popular demand, the Milford to Commerce Grand Tour traverses 30 miles of dirt roads, singletrack, two-track, and paved bike paths. We will split it into two groups; a spirited pace of 15 mph and a no-drop group ride at a pace of 10 mph.

POTO Take a Kid MTB

Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day – Sunday, June 2 from 10-2, Brighton Recreation Area, Sandhill Pavilion

This FREE event is brought to you by the Potawatomi Mountain Bike Association (POTO)to encourage communities to join together and get kids excited about riding! Bike the 2 mile beginner Appleton Lake Loop trail with a guide or try out the bike skills course. Hometown Bicycles will be assisting with free bicycle and helmet checks.

Brighton Optimist Club Fishing Derby – Saturday, June 8 from 8:30-11:30 AM

FREE catch and release fishing derby sponsored by the Brighton Optimist Club, for ages 16 and under. Be one of the first 150 to register to get a complimentary t-shirt. Hometown will be there to talk up how you and your kids can ride with us in the 4th of July Parade! 

Kevin Brennan

Family Day at Settlers Park – Saturday, June 8 from 10-2

In partnership with our amazing Team Hometown Bicycles sponsor, Kevin Brennan with Michigan Financial Planning, this FREE event will include guided paved and mountain bike rides for all ages, food and refreshments, and demonstration bikes. Come out and see what Settlers Park has to offer!

Mother’s Day, Demo Day, and Yoga-Bikes-Beer

Happy Mothers Day bicycle
(Possibly the world’s sweetest Mum’s Day card, available at cubecure.co.uk)

CELEBRATING THE WONDERFUL WOMEN WHO STARTED IT ALL  
It takes a very special sort of someone to start you off on your journey to YOU, and in honor of the moms who set our wheels rolling, Hometown Bicycles is offering an additional 5% on your Mother’s Day Hometown Gift Certificate purchases. That makes your $500 Gift Certificate $525 and your $1,000 turns into $1,050! (Valid today 5/11 through this Sunday 5/13.)


Hometown Bicycles' Shaun and Dawn Bhajan with family at 2018 Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day, hosted by MCMBA

DEMO DAY 2018 WITH HOMETOWN BICYCLES

This year’s Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day, put on by the wonderful folks of the MCMBA, attracted record crowds of over 400 riders and many, many more visitors. Gorgeous weather, eager cyclists, scads of bikes and gear – we’re talking FUN! Shaun and I always make a family affair of it, and what we saw made us extra proud to be Hometownies…

Team Hometown Bicycles volunteers at 2018 Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day with MCMBA
Above: Our Hometown jerseys and t-shirts were EVERYWHERE… and I’m not just talking about riders, either! Our Team stepped up with lightning speed to fill the majority of the MCMBA Demo Day volunteer spots, as well as our Team tent. Registration, food prep, bike corral – you name it, Hometown was there! Thank you, Team, for being so darn awesome!!

Team Hometown Bicycles' Leslie Cook representing for both Hometown and National Mountain Bike Patrol
Above: Some Team Hometownies even managed to do crossover volunteering, like Leslie here, who represented both Team Hometown and IMBA National Mountain Bike Patrol!

Our Demo Day neighbor was Team Hometown Bicycles Hydration Sponsor Beauchamp Water Treatment and Supply with Sandy Rachwal
Above: Even our Team Sponsors did us proud! Sandy of Beauchamp Water Treatment & Supply kept the Demo Day riders well hydrated from her table beside our tent. Yep, it was an event for building connections, strengthening ties, and advancing our sport!

Team Hometown rider, MCMBA board member, and Demo Day committee chair Steve Steinberg accepting our donation from Demo Day
Above: We want to give a special shout out to Team Hometown’s Steve Steinberg, who is not only on the board of the MCMBA, but also chairs this much-loved Demo Day event – clearly with no small measure of success. We’re proud to have such a devoted cycling advocate on our Team. Congrats on a stellar event, Steve!

At this year’s Demo Day, Hometown Bicycles grilled hot dogs and offered other complimentary refreshments to Demo-goers, while collecting donations to be funneled back into the MCMBA. Here, we’re proudly handing Steve that $188 donation to support the growth of Michigan Mountain Biking. It was a feel-good event, all the way around, and we can’t wait to do it again!


Team Hometown Bicycles showing a little leg at Mud, Sweat and Beers in Traverse City, Michigan

TEAM NEWS:  HOMETOWN SPANS THE STATE

Boy, was our Team hopping this past weekend! They spanned the State – north, west, southwest, and southeast – with bike-bound adventures, advocacy, and races.

Eight Team members competed in Mud, Sweat & Beers Fat Tire Fest and Mountain Bike Race, with Scott Simpson nabbing a 2nd in single speed. Thanks for spreading the Hometown magic all the way up in Traverse City, Brad Allen, Paul Andres, Mike Dyer, Erik Frasier, Scooter Gates, Kevin Machuga, Jim Thompson, and Scott!

Jack Riddle and Matt Price raced 50 and 100 miles consecutively in West Michigan’s Hellkaat Hundie Gravel Road Race. Special shout out to Matt for taking 1st in the Fat Bike class and 15th overall!

Linc Wehrly represented in the Fort Custer Stampede Mountain Bike Race, known for its unique and exciting trails.

Bike Ypsi Spring Ride was 4 riders richer for the addition of Team Hometown’s Adam Baranski, Joe Ostervik, Jacob Henriksen, and Shannon McKay.

And like I mentioned above, not only was the State awash in the Hometown colors – so, too, was Spring Bike Demo Day 2018, where our Team rocked cycling advocacy with volunteer superstardom and participation!

Now, THAT’s the power of a 103-rider Team, Hometownies. Be proud!


REGISTER FOR MILFORD BIKE FEST: JUNE 2

Milford Bike Fest and Trail Challenge poster
Here’s an event you’ll want to add to your calendar – the MCMBA’s annual Milford Bike Fest & Trail Challenge!

This year, Hometown Bicycles is proud to be the primary bike shop Sponsor for this event. Our Milford connection, Hometown Service Manager Matt Fitzhorn, will be manning the Hometown tent and participating in the awards and announcements. Come hang out with him and the Hometown Team, while enjoying a beautiful blend of mountain biking, live music, delicious food, and beer!

REGISTER NOW FOR MILFORD BIKE FEST


REGISTER FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS: JUNE 23

Poses, Pedals and Pints logo
We know there will be some hats tossed and cartwheels attempted over this latest piece of local news…

Poses, Pedals & Pints: Summer 2018 registration is now open! If you hearken back to last year’s P3 series, the event opens with beginner-friendly yoga, courtesy of Tocca Massage & Yoga, followed by a leisurely and scenic ride with Hometown, ending with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker. Remember, this event sells out insanely fast!


Join our crew

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!


Hometown Bicycles shop ride, Friday Night Lights through Island Lake Recreation Area
UPCOMING SHOP RIDES
Friday Night Lights
FRIDAY, MAY 11  |  9:00PM (MEET BY 8:45PM)  |  FROM HOMETOWN
It’s a different world out there when you’re riding by bike light! We’ll ride the Island Lake trails at an INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED pace. Make sure your lights are fully charged! Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged. NOT a beginner ride. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

………………………………………………..

Beginner Friendly Road Ride

MONDAY, MAY 14  |  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!

………………………………………………..

Advanced Skills & Drills
TUESDAY, MAY 15  |  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. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Ladies’ Road Ride
TUESDAY, MAY 15  |  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!

………………………………………………..

Gravel Grinding 101
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16  |  6:30PM (MEET BY 6:15PM)  |  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!

………………………………………………..

Ladies Only Beginner Mountain Bike Ride
THURSDAY, MAY 17  |  6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM)  |  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!


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, Meghan Terbush, mountain biking at Island Lake

Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few are dirt.

~ John Muir

Birthday Photos, Barry Results, and Earth Day Activities

Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday singing Happy Birthday video
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!)
Birthday gifts for our customers at Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday Party
ABOVE: The day kicked off with birthday gifts, games, and prizes for all of the loyal Hometownies who came to celebrate with us!
Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday Party birthday bike ride
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.
Hot dogs on the grill and birthday cake at Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday Party
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.
Make-A-Wish table and losing a tooth with the Andres family at Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday Party
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!)
Hometownies celebrating at Hometown Bicycles 8th Birthday Party
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!


The Thinker, contemplation
(Photo credit: “The Thinker”, Copyright © Joe deSousa)

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!


Team Hometown Bicycles at 2018 Barry Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race
(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

Team Hometown Bicycles member, Jean Steinberg, coaching MiSCA coaches in East Grand RapidsWe’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 Bicycles at Downtown Brighton Earth Day Event 2018
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!)


Join our crew

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!


Hometown Bicycles Beginner Road Ride shop ride
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!

………………………………………………..

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!

………………………………………………..

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!

………………………………………………..

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!

………………………………………………..

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!

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


Tim Allen Limited Edition Home Improvement bicycle on display at Hometown Bicycles

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!

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

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