Bike Lights Clinic & Promo, 2019 Jamis are IN, and Shaun goes Golfing

Posted on September 27, 2018 by Shaun

Of course you do!! Be the first to drop by and put these hardtail beauties through their paces! Think “cutting edge trail tracking”… AND “coolest kid on the block!”
(Above: Jamis Highpoint in Teal Fo’ Real)

Bike Lights Clinic and Night Ride – 10/5 at 7pm!

YOU’RE INVITED to a special bike lights clinic, demo, promotion, and group night ride right here at Hometown on Friday, October 5th at 7:00pm!

Whether you’re new to night rides, or are interested in scoping out the latest advances in bike light technology, you’ll learn all sorts of fascinating tips and trivia, with the opportunity to put it all to the test at the accompanying ALL-Levels Night Ride!

Clinic starts at 7pm, covering the what, where, when, why and how of bike lights and night riding. Chances look good that we’ll also have a surprise guest speaker join in with some expert insights!

You’ll have some hands-on time with all of the light options, and can make this-night-only purchases at discount (including special orders)… and then you’re ALL invited to test out your new shiners on an 8:30pm Night Ride, leaving from the shop and heading into the beautiful world of Island Lake after dark. All levels welcome, no drop ride!

Let us know you’re coming!!

October 7th: Tour de Livingston 2018

We’re less than 2 weeks away from Hometown’s, hands-down-favorite, local ride – the scenic and sensational Tour de Livingston! With distances ranging from 5 to 100 miles, routes that cover the prettiest parts of Livingston County during peak fall color, and the opportunity to ride GM Proving Grounds, this Howell Rotary fundraiser for Livingston County United Way is an absolute must-ride!

REGISTER NOW, hang at the Hometown tent & ride with us!!

Team News: Teaming up and pushing limits

On September 15th, an impressive 14 Hometownies rode Triple Trail Challenge at Pinckney Rec. Kudos to Paul Andres, John Comella, Leslie Cook, Keith Cowger, Mike Dyer, Erik Frazier, Robin Fry, Scott Gates, Jacob Henriksen, Olga Negrut, Roger Pelky, Steve Steinberg, Jim Thompson and John Wyatt for a great showing. Our very own Trail Build Master, Tom Hermann, showed up to cheer them and Poto Chapter on!

Then in Cadillac, Michigan on September 22nd, Erik Frazier placed 5th in the Bear Claw Epic Mountain Bike Race. Way to rock the trails, Erik!

Team members Nancy and Mike Kessler (right) took Hometown on the Marquette trails…

… and had this to say: “The trails in Marquette are an ENTIRELY different kind of beast than what we have here. Hard, gnarly, even on ‘easier’ trails. It’s insane.” Good thing this couple loves a challenge!

And, ummm, Shaun goes golfing?!

You know it’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood when our fearless leader dons his best Hometown golf attire and hits the course. On September 14th, Shaun and father-in-law, Fred, partnered with a third – avid golfer, Brian from Ann Arbor – for the 2nd Annual Charity Golf Classic at Kensington Metropark. Hometown was proud to sponsor this event, which supports the parks that our cyclists love to ride!

“You should have seen [Brian’s] face when he found out I had never golfed before,”Shaun said with his trademark devilish grin. (Poor Brian.)

This golf classic to benefit the Metroparks Foundation featured former Detroit Red Wings player, Darren McCarty, and Detroit Red Wings National Anthem singer,Karen Newman. And, yes, Shaun got to meet both!

Hometown Bicycles donated a Jamis Durango Sport bicycle for the live auction.

When asked how he felt about his first foray into the world of golf, Shaun said,
“I kinda sorta liked it!”

Kem Krest Wellness Fair welcomes Hometown!

Partnering with local businesses that put a high value on the health and wellness of their employees is HUGE for Hometown. We love a company that loves its staff.

On September 20th, Shaun headed off to Kem Krest to participate in their annual Wellness Fair. Over 200 employees stopped by the fair to check out the various vendors and classes taking place. Shaun wowed them with a fat tire bike demo and showed off some other awesome bikes.

Thank you, Kem Krest, for making Hometown Bicycles part of your team!

Your Invitation to Ladies Night Out

OCTOBER 16TH • 6-9PM • AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES

Changing of the seasons, kids back in school… who really needs an excuse anyway to get together with the girls for a night of pampering, empowerment, and fun??

Us gals at Hometown have cooked up another exciting Ladies Night Out on October 16th from 6-9pm, and this one’s themed around how to respect all of the hard work you put in over the summer to stay fit and healthy… by maintaining it with indoor AND outdoor winter cycling!

The Overview
We’ll be closing the shop early on October 16th at 6pm to start your evening off with a relaxing, 30-minute, Hatha yoga session, courtesy of licensed yogi, Stacy Mulka, plus stress-melting chair massages with Shannon Rau.

Shaun will follow up with a couple mini-clinics on bicycle trainers – what they are, how they work, and how to get the best workout on them – and the skinny on fat bikes – what they are, what they can do, and why women are falling in love with them!!

Enjoy wine and munchies, as we bring you inspiration and motivation in the form of personal stories shared by fantastic Hometownies… women just like you who have overcome obstacles, set goals, and made dreams come true.

Round out your evening with a complimentary goodie bag brimming with awesomeness, and browsing and shopping some of the fabulous vendors whose creations you have fallen in love with from our gifts & novelties area.

$30 pre-registration

REGISTER NOW or at our shop!

Another successful Poses, Pedals & Pints!

Poses, Pedals & Pints was held at downtown Brighton’s beautiful Brewery Becker on September 16th. Beginner-friendly yoga kicked off the day, followed by a scenic, recreational bike ride with our wonderful team. Participants chose from either 4 or 8 miles. The day wrapped up with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker.

Amazing job, Team! We are so proud of you for representing Hometown and being all-around helpful! The weather was perfectly perfect and everyone had a wonderful time.

Thank you to Ashley Knuth with Tocca Massage & Yoga for her tireless efforts in coordinating P3. Over $500 was raised for the Knuth Family Foundation to support young athletes with scholarship awards.

HOMETOWN BICYCLES SHOP RIDES

Our Shop Rides are open to the public, and span the cycling spectrum from beginner to advanced, road to trail, and everything in between. FOR ALL RIDES, please arrive 15 minutes early! Don’t miss one moment of fun!

(**Note: As the days shorten, our Summer rides are coming to a close. No tears!! We’ll be starting up our Iceman Training and Fat Bike shop rides shortly – stay tuned!! Always confirm rides in advance on our Facebook events page. Rides, times, and locations may sometimes vary!)

Ladies’ Road Ride | Level: Novice & Up
*** FINAL RIDE FOR THE 2018 SEASON ON 10/2 ***

TUESDAYS, 6:15PM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Advanced Skills & Drills Road Ride | Level: Intermediate/Advanced

*** FINAL RIDE FOR THE 2018 SEASON ON 10/2 ***
TUESDAYS, 6PM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Gravel Grinding 101 | Level: Novice & Up

WEDNESDAYS, 5:45PM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Ladies Only Mountain Bike Ride | Level: Novice & Up

*** FINAL RIDE FOR THE 2018 SEASON ON 10/4 ***

THURSDAYS, 6PM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Friday Night Lights Trail Ride | Level: Intermediate/Advanced

FRIDAYS, 8:30PM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Saturday Century Training Ride | Level: Novice & Up

*** FINAL RIDE FOR THE 2018 SEASON ON 9/29 ***

SATURDAYS, 11AM | FROM HOMETOWN | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..
Sunday Gravel Grinder | Level: Intermediate/Advanced

SUNDAYS, 9AM | VARIES | Find ride details and updates HERE!

………………………………………………..

Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride | Level: Novice & Up

*** FINAL RIDE FOR THE 2018 SEASON ON 9/30 ***
SUNDAYS, 4:30PM | VARIES | Find ride details and updates HERE!

*** Fun fact: WE RENT BIKES! ***

FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES

Cardio Drumming | Wendesdays at 6:00PM
$5 drop-in / $5 equipment rental – With Martha Soraruf | Click to learn more

Hatha Yoga | Thursdays at 10:45AM
$8 drop in per class – With Stacy Mulka | 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

Zumba GOLD | Fridays at 9:30AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $50” punch card – With Tresa O’Rourke | Click to learn more

Life’s a climb, but the view is great.

(Especially when the view includes a certain photobomber…)

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: best bicycle repair, best bicycle service, best bike repair, best bike service, bicycle clinic, bicycle repair, bicycle service, bicycle shop, bicycles, bike clinic, bike repair, bike rides, bike service, bike shop, bikes, Brewery Becker, Brighton, Cardio Drumming, charity golf, cycling, cyclists, fitness classes, golfing, group rides, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownies, Howell Rotary, Jamis Bikes, Jamis Highpoint, kem krest, Knuth Family Foundation, ladies night out, Leslie Barrett, livingston county, Livingston County United Way, Marquette trails, Martha Soraruf, Michigan, Mike and Nancy Kessler, night ride, Poses Pedals and Pints, shop rides, Team Hometown Bicycles, Tocca Massage and Yoga, Tour de Livingston, zumba | Leave a comment »

Look Outside! + Roll & Rock Concert at Hometown

Posted on January 26, 2018 by Shaun

I TOLD YOU S… OK, OK, I WON’T SAY IT…
Remember that email I sent you a couple weeks back, telling you that the best time to get your bikes tuned up is NOW, so you won’t miss a minute of cycling weather? Today has just put a very definitive exclamation point at the end of that statement!

Those of you early birds who already took up the call – happy cycling! And there’s been another surge of tune-up bikes over the last few days. But if you haven’t acted yet, know this…

We’ll be seeing a lot more of these spring-heralding days over the coming month. If indoor cycling is your thing, may the force power your climate-controlled pedal strokes. But if the thought of getting back outdoors makes your heart SOAR, pack up those bikes and bring them in! We’ll have you ready to ride the next wave of beautiful weather.

MEET YOUR TEAM SOCIAL SPONSOR!

I am exceptionally pleased to RE-introduce Sean Lowry of Lowry Solutions. You may already recognize this name as one of the quality companies that’s sponsored Team Hometown Bicycles over the past two years.

Sean approached us with a desire to take his Sponsorship to a new level of awesome and, from that conversation, Team Social Sponsor was born! Our 2018 Team members will enjoy quarterly events geared toward Team bonding, accomplishment celebration, and having FUN, thanks to this avid cyclist and his community-minded company.

When you spot Sean at rides and events, be sure to shake his hand! Thanks, Lowry Solutions, for helping strengthen and grow our Team!! (And congrats, Sean, on your baby daughter!)

Haven’t signed up yet for Team Hometown? Email Laura at ride@myhometownbicycles.com. We’re accepting applications through March 1st!

MIKE KEARNS REPRESENTS AT SUMMIT

Speaking of Team Sponsors we can all be proud of, we’d like to give a 21-gear salute to Mike Kearns of Kearns Brothers, Inc, who spread Team goodwill and bike joy all the way down in Florida, building donation bikes at a recent Contractor Summit. As described in their event roster:

“… we are giving back to the Miami community with a Build-a-Bike charity component [and] are asking all in attendance to volunteer a portion of their time, and help us give back to those recently ravaged by Hurricane Irma… help us assemble [the bikes] and have fun doing it!”

And so he did. Mike, ya’ done your Team proud!

(Photo courtesy and © Progressive Blues & Rhythm Band)

ROLL & ROCK EVENT COMING 2/10
A ‘funk’y fundraiser for the Brighton High School Mountain Bike Team

Recognize the fella standing in the middle? Of course you do!! Because he’s Hometown’s very own CycloDan Tribble – long-time service guru, leader of our Tuesday shop rides, all-things-bike geek and, in his alter life, member of a band! (We always knew he was cool!)

On Saturday, February 10th, we’re clearing our floor of bikes for a LIVE CONCERT AT HOMETOWN, starring Progressive Blues & Rhythm Band. On the agenda – crazy awesome music, dancing, BYOB, snacks, socializing… and knowing that half of your $10 cover charge goes directly toward gearing up the BHS Team for their 2018 cycling season!

Enjoy the show from 7pm-9pm, then hang with the band at the after-party. It’s laid back, funky fun that will wow your ears and tickle your tastebuds, all while supporting youth cycling. Please let us know you’re coming, so we can plan for enough refreshments!

BAND BIO: The Progressive Blues and Rhythm Band is Brian “BK Big Fish” King, drums, Doug “Bird Dog” Percha, guitar, Theo “Dr. Thee” Smith, bass and Dan Tribble aka “Shoocat Hopkins” on vocals and harmonica. All have been active members of the S.E. Michigan music scene mostly dating back to the mid 70’s. The PBR Band intends to bring you a brew of blues, rock & funky R&B for your listening and dancing enjoyment! Contact Brian at 330-806-1710 for booking info.

SAT, FEBRUARY 10 | 7PM-10PM | AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES
$10 cover charge, payable at the door – cash or checks only, please.

CLICK HERE IF YOU CAN ATTEND!

LADIES NIGHT OUT: SPRING EDITION (2/20)

You asked – we listened!! Welcome to ’Ladies Night Out at Hometown Bicycles – Spring Edition’ on Tuesday, February 20th from 6-9pm!! We’ll close the shop again for the last 3 hours of the day, so that we can make this evening all about you! Shake off the winter blah’s, and let’s think Spring, ladies!!!Back by popular demand, your evening will start by easing away the stresses of your day with a 30-minute, beginner yoga session, courtesy of Terri from Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp. Stretched and centered, you’ll warm your spirits with wine and refreshments, provided by Hometown.

Next on the agenda, the mini-clinics so many of you asked for! We’ll be running 15 minute quickies on Flat Tire Fixes and Shifting Demystified. Pick one, try both, or go back for seconds – we’ll run repeats over the course of an hour. In the meantime, browse a specially ordered selection of women-specific cycling necessities – discounted at Ladies-Night-only pricing! More details to come – stay tuned!

TUES, FEBRUARY 20 | 6PM-9PM | AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES
$40 payable at registration. Click the link below!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR LADIES NIGHT OUT!

(Photo courtesy and © Live Safe Academy)

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE AT HOMETOWN (2/13)

MEN, don’t skip this section on account of it’s title! I KNOW there are women in your life who are important to you. Ladies, same goes for you, and I sincerely hope that one of those women is YOU!We’ve invited Ian Kinder, owner and personal safety instructor of Live Safe Academy, to teach a Women’s Self Defense class right here at Hometown on Tuesday, February 13th. In this 2-hour session, you’ll learn “simple, life saving skills from programs designed to increase your safety after only one class! Our hands on courses teach time-tested, realistic methods that are easy to learn and remember… No previous training required.”

Timed beneficially just before Valentine’s Day, this class is targeted for ladies, ages 12 and up. Valentine’s Day safety, solo bike rides, peace of mind – whatever your interest, COME! I’ve signed up… your turn!

TUES, FEBRUARY 13 | 7PM-9PM | AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES
$40 payable at time of registration. Minimum 15 participants required – tell your friends and family!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
FOR WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE AT HOMETOWN

1/30 & 2/1: BIKE MAINTENANCE – AFTER THE RIDE

We’ve run our Winter Clinic Series since opening in 2010… not to toot our own horn, but *toot* we’re really good at it! All clinics are FREE – click the links below for details and to register:

Bike Maintenance – After the Ride Care
Tues, Jan 30th, 12:15-1pm & Thu, Feb 1st, 7-8pm

Bike Fitting with Pro-Motion Physical Therapy
Thu, Feb 8th, 7-8pm

Cycling Nutrition Clinic
Tues, Feb 13th, 12:15-1pm & Thu, Feb 15th, 7-8pm

Cycling Gear & Wear Clinic
Tues, Feb 20th, 12:15-1pm & Thu, Feb 22nd, 7-8pm

Where to Ride in Michigan Potluck Party
Thu, March 1st, 7-9pm

<< Click the image at left for a printable Clinic Series flier!

2018 HOMETOWN WOMEN’S WINTER CLASSES

Ladies, Hometown’s women-only, winter class series is going strong to KEEP you strong over the winter. Click the registration links for details and to sign up:1/30 WOMEN’S SPIN CLASS with Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp
REGISTER for Spin | 6 – 7PM at Hamburg Fitness | $5 (no membership required!)

2/6 WOMEN’S HOT YOGA with Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp
REGISTER for Hot Yoga | 6 – 7PM at Hamburg Fitness | $5 (no membership required!)

2/13 WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE with Live Safe Academy
REGISTER for Self Defense | 7PM – 9PM at Hometown Bicycles | $40 at registration
A Note from Dawn: I’ve seen this instructor in action, and he is awesome. This class NEEDS to
be shared with the women in your life who are important to you… that’s why I’m sharing it with you.
Ages 12 and up – mothers, daughters, wives, friends, and coworkers – ALL women welcome!

2/20 LADIES NIGHT OUT at Hometown Bicycles
REGISTER for Ladies Night Out | 6PM – 9PM at Hometown Bicycles | $40 at registration

2/27 WOMEN’S PILOXING BARRE with Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp
REGISTER for PILOXING | 6 – 7PM at Hamburg Fitness | $5 (no membership required!)

HOMETOWN BICYCLES SHOP RIDES

Fat Bike Friendly Ride – Intermediate/Advanced
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 | 10AM (MEET AT 9:30AM) | FROM HOMETOWN BICYCLES
We’ll pedal our fat bikes through the “badlands” of Island Lake Recreation Area. This week, we split into A and B groups. Group A, the ADVANCED Riders, will be riding at a much faster pace and put in more miles. Group B, the INTERMEDIATE Riders, will ride as their skill determines. All riders will be powering through hills, sand and snow (exploring behind “the pond”). We’ll cover about 10 -16 miles of adventure. Come dressed for the weather. Check Facebook for Ride confirmation and changes!***Fat bikes are available for rent at the shop!***

…………………………………………

Night Riders with Dan
TUESDAY, JANUARY 30 | 6PM (MEET AT 5:45PM) | FROM HOMETOWN BICYCLES
If, and only if, trail conditions are favorable, Dan will lead this Beginner/Intermediate paced group through the mountain bike trails of Island Lake. *Bring your Lights!* Make sure you have front AND rear lights (charged). NO DROP RIDE. Mountain and Fat Bikes welcome. Check Facebook for Ride confirmation and changes!

***Fat bikes are available for rent at the shop!***

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 to get a high-energy start to their New Year’s resolutions, 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

To bike or not to bike… what a silly question!

~ Anonymous

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: beginner yoga, bicycle clinics, bicycle rides, bicycle shop, bicycles, bicycling, bike clinics, bike rides, bike shop, bike tune ups, bikes, biking, Build-a-Bike, Cardio Drumming, charity, community, cycling, cyclists, CycloDan Tribble, Dan Tribble, fat bike friendly ride, Hometown Bicycles, Hurricane Irma, Ian Kinder, indoor cycling, Kearns Brothers Inc., ladies night out, Leslie Barrett, live music, Live Safe Academy, Lowry Solutions, Martha Soraruf, Mike Kearns, mini-clinics, musicians, night ride, PBR Band, Progressive Blues and Rhythm Band, Roll and Rock concert, Sean Lowry, Social Sponsor, spring, Spring Edition, Team Hometown Bicycles, team sponsor, tuneups, wine, women only classes, womens self defense, zumba | Leave a comment »

MI’s Best, Thule, and Triathlons 101

Posted on April 27, 2017 by Shaun

One of MI’s Best Bike Shops!

TURNS OUT WE’RE “A NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK”!
Guess which local bike shop made the list of The 10 BEST BIKE SHOPS IN MICHIGAN?!

We’re snapping our bib shorts suspenders with pride at seeing Hometown Bicycles rocking another Best Bike Shop list. This particular accolade can be found on the Best Things MI website.

Our favorite review from the site: “Stop in if you want to be treated like family. This place is a needle in a hay stack of bike shops. Truly an awesome experience. Great selection too!” ~ James R.

Thank you, James! Thank you, Best Things MI! And thank-you-thank-you-thank-you, loyal Hometownies!!

(Bottom 2 images – beer on the podium and Doug Queener catching air – © Jack Kunnen Photography.)

TEAM TIME TRIAL AT YANKEE SPRINGS

In the continuing saga of Team Hometown’s awesome adventures, last weekend found a fantastic five Hometownies racing the Yankee Springs Time Trial. Congratulations to Team member Scott Simpson for his 3rd place finish in Elite Expert single speed class! There were a couple other near-podium-experiences at this event – especially impressive as it’s “one of the largest and longest running time trial races in the Midwest”!

“TRIATHLON 101” CLINIC 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)

WE’RE NOW YOUR AUTHORIZED THULE DEALER

You’ve been asking, and we’re answering – all of you Thule-lovin’ Hometownies can now get your Thule racks right here at YOUR bike shop.

BASEBALL AND BICYCLES

Sounds like the title to an insanely cool new sport, doesn’t it? Anyone up to the challenge?
Actually, this is about the Brighton Bulldogs Baseball Travel Team that we are proudly sponsoring this year. In newsletters past, we promised a game schedule… a promise I can now deliver on! Shaun and I are looking forward to catching a game (and maybe a wayward ball?) at one of their local ballgames. We’d love to see you there!

CLICK HERE TO PICK A DAY TO CHEER ON THESE TALENTED KIDS

TOUR DE LIVINGSTON SAVE-THE-DATE

It’s almost like a countdown to Christmas! This scenic, local ride is a gift in so many ways – to the riders, to the Community, and to cycling at large. Be sure to mark it down now in your calendars as a 2017 must-ride! Visit their new website for details.

COMING THIS SUMMER TO A FRONT LAWN NEAR YOU…

Hometown’s lawn will soon be playing host to a fast-paced, Fresh Air Fitness class from our long-standing Team Sponsor Body Within. This mid-June class will be specifically designed to get your ride muscles in top form!

Interested? Good! Stay tuned for dates and details, or call Chris at (517) 304-2282 if you’re too excited to wait and need to learn more NOW!

(Last Sunday’s Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride was a hit, with gorgeous weather and new faces – welcome! This Sunday is the last time we’ll be “exploring” Island Lake singletrack, before we move on to new trails and new adventures. Don’t miss out on riding a classic… join us!)

HOMETOWN BICYCLES UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

THURSDAY SOCIAL ROAD RIDE (4/27)
10:00AM (meet at 9:45) from Hometown Bicycles
If the rain holds off, come check out the popular Thursday morning Social Road ride as we hit the back entrance to Island Lake and explore the 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.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (4/28)
8:30PM (meet at 8:15) from Hometown Bicycles
Join us for an evening expedition onto Island Lake’s Blue/Yellow loops at an INTERMEDIATE pace. Make sure your lights are charged, as darkness may catch up to us on our 1.5-hour ride. We will re-group throughout the trail. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged.

SATURDAY BEGINNER ROAD RIDE (4/29)
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 (4/30)
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 (4/30)
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 (5/1)
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.
WEDNESDAY HAMMERFEST (5/2) – THIS IS A DROP RIDE!
6:30PM (meet at 6:15) from Hometown Bicycles
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!

SPRING SNOWMAN 5K

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??

In winter, I plot and plan. In spring, I move.

– Henry Rollins

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: adventures, Amy Gluck, authorized Thule Dealer, baseball, Best Bike Shop in MI, Best Things MI, bicycle shop, bicycles, bike repair, bike rides, bike shop, bikes, Body Within, Brighton, brighton bulldogs, Chris and Jenny Schild, clinic, coaching, community, Community Room, competition, Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride, fat bikes, fitness class, Fresh Air Fitness, group rides, Hammerfest, Henry Rollins, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownies, Ironman, livingston county, Michigan, Midwest, mountain bikes, needle in a haystack, night ride, night riding, Pro-Motion Physical Therapy, race, road bikes, save the date, Scott Simpson, shop rides, Spring Snowman 5K, Team Hometown Bicycles, Thule, Tour de Livingston, travel team, tri clinic, triathlon, Triathlon 101, Yankee Springs Time Trial | Leave a comment »

24 Days of Christmas, Zumba, Yoga, and Cardio Drumming

Posted on November 29, 2016 by Shaun

FORGET THE PARTRIDGE – THIS PUTS MONEY BACK IN YOUR WALLET!
It’s tradition! Get your planner out… here are this year’s Daily Deals running December 1st-24th:

DECEMBER 1:  Get $20 off any purchase of $100 or more
DECEMBER 2:  Get 10% off all bicycle inflation devices
DECEMBER 3: Get 10% off all Park tools
DECEMBER 4: Get 20% off any Planet Bike accessory
DECEMBER 5: Get 15% off all trainers
DECEMBER 6:  Get $500 off any carbon fiber bicycle
DECEMBER 7: Get 15% off all helmets
DECEMBER 8:  Buy 1 tune-up for yourself, get 1 tune-up FREE for a friend
DECEMBER 9:  Get 10% off all car racks
DECEMBER 10:  Buy 2 inner tubes, get 2 inner tubes FREE
DECEMBER 11: Get 25% off any one item
DECEMBER 12: Get $10 off any purchase of $50 or more
DECEMBER 13:  Get a $100 in-store gift certificate with every bicycle purchase
DECEMBER 14:  Finish Line bicycle cleaning kit originally $49.99, now $39.99
DECEMBER 15:  Planet Bike Superflash Tail Light originally $29.99, now $19.99, PLUS get 20% off all other lights
DECEMBER 16:  Get 30% off all clothing
DECEMBER 17:  Buy 1 get 1 free on all nutrition
DECEMBER 18:  Get 10% off all lubes
DECEMBER 19:  Buy a kid’s bicycle, get 50% off a kid’s helmet
DECEMBER 20: Get 15% off all cycling gloves
DECEMBER 21:  Get 10% off all socks
DECEMBER 22:  Get a free water bottle with purchase of a water bottle cage
DECEMBER 23: Get a 25% trade-up on all gift certificate purchases
DECEMBER 24:  Last minute shoppers, get 25% off everything!

………………………

………………………

ZUMBA AWAY THE WINTER “BLAH”S

Our Community Room is filling up with fantastic, fitness activities to keep you fighting fit over the cold, winter months. First on the docket is “Zumba with Leslie Barrett“:

Join Zumba instructor Leslie Barrett for cardio, toning, and fun as we dance to some great Latin and world music, plus some pop and hip hop!

Zumba is for everybody and every body! All fitness levels welcome. You don’t have to be a dancer… come as you are and dance away those pesky pounds (and your troubles)!

RUNS MONDAYS AT 6:00PM & THURSDAYS AT 9:30AM
$5 drop in – Community Room at Hometown Bicycles – Click to learn more

………………………

STAY TONED WITH DYNAMIC YOGA

Massage maven and yogi, Ashley Knuth of Tocca Massage & Yoga, will help you keep your cycling muscles limber with her movement-based Vinyasa Yoga class:

Based on the Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga Sequence, our dynamic classes are designed to give you a physical workout with a combination of strength and stretching poses. All yoga classes are 60 minutes. All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome!

FRIDAYS AT 9:00AM ON 12/16 • 12/23 • 12/30 • 1/6
$10 drop in or $35 for all 4 weeks – Community Room at Hometown Bicycles
Click to learn more

(Writer’s Note: Tocca’s massages are incredible. Seriously. I’ve been a patron for years.)

………………………

CARDIO DRUMMING – WE LOVE YOU!

When it comes to Martha Soraruf’s insanely popular Cardio Drumming classes, we’ve become total converts (and not just because it’s Liam’s favorite!) This is a class of epic energy and frustration-venting fun:

Join us for an evening of drumming, music, movement and fun! Cardio drumming is the latest way to relieve stress, sweat, sing and enjoy a workout with friends! What a great way to start the week.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in and find a spot. Don’t forget your water!

RUNS MONDAYS AT 9:30AM & WEDNESDAYS AT 6:45PM
$5 class fee / $5 equipment rental – Community Room at Hometown Bicycles
Click to learn more

………………………

HOMETOWN SHOP RIDES

Happily, cold weather and early nights do NOT signal the end of cycling season! Here’s a shop ride you won’t want to miss this week:

Friday Night Lights – December 2nd, 7:00 p.m.
Meet at the shop by 6:45 for an intermediately-paced night jaunt through Island Lake. Be sure your lights are charged, and bring a back-up, if you have one!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Rifle Season runs November 15-30. Please consider exploring non-hunting parks during the day and those with hunting after dark. It’s only two weeks – let’s stay safe!

………………………

2017 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Check out the companies below… they’re our 2015/16 sponsors, and businesses that we are proud to promote because they share our core values of integrity, passion, dedication, and community-mindedness.

With 2017 fast approaching, we are opening up additional Team Sponsor opportunities. Interested in learning more? Contact our Rides Coordinator, Jean, at ride@myhometownbicycles.com.