Bike Fit Clinic This Saturday + Karate Comes to Hometown

Posted on February 7, 2019 by Shaun

Join us this Saturday 2/9 from 12-1:30 PM, as Vinnie Baylerian, PT, DPT of Pro-Motion Physical Therapy covers the art and science of Bike Fitting. How can we maximize efficiency and minimize discomfort? Learn about the mechanics of your body, and how it interacts with your bicycle!

Please note that this wildly popular clinic is only offered on Saturday (sorry, no clinic today, Thursday 2/7!) There are already 44 bike-friendly folks signed up. Let’s fill the shop room floor with ALL the cycling enthusiasts! (If you have an extra chair handy, we’d appreciate you bringing it along.) SIGN UP HERE!

And here is the schedule of upcoming clinics! Early registration is appreciated. Click each registration link for the clinic(s) you’d like to attend.

Cycling Nutrition
Thursday 2/14 from 7-8 PM or Saturday 2/16 from 1-2 PM

Where to Ride in Michigan Potluck Party!
Sunday 3/3 from 5:30-7:30 PM

Guess what’s happenin’ in our Community Room? Martial Arts training!
Brighton ATA Martial Arts will be offering lessons in our Community Room on Monday and Thursday evenings, as well as every other Tuesday evening, from 6-8 PM.
Instructors CJ & Sarah Horn teach Songahm, Taekwondo-based martial arts for ages 4 and up, centered around self-defense and bully prevention.

“We focus on working with students on building confidence and discipline as well as other valuable life skills. Martial arts is unlike any other sport because at the core of the training, the emphasis is on personal development. We share and teach the same values you teach at home. The foundations of our morals, values and core character traits are formed in our early years. For this reason, the ATA Martial Arts program is an essential way to enhance the growth and personal development of young students of all ages.”
Join today to start your 3 FREE class trial!
Contact staff@brightonata.com or (810) 534-7518.

Sponsor Feature: Getting to Know PrismWare!

Meet Steve Wortley!

When and how did you get into cycling?
I started getting into road biking seriously when I was about 13. I never rode with anyone — just loved the freedom of rolling over blacktop and finding new places to ride. When mountain bikes came along I thought they looked slow and silly, but one ride on the trails hooked me — a whole new way to find even more places to ride; places I couldn’t explore on my road bike. I’ve done long distance riding with friends, but Hometown is the first team experience I’ve had and I love it.

As a sponsor, how would you like to partner with Hometown and the Team?
PrismWare’s sponsorship is simply an extension of my commitment to, and support of, the Hometown community.

Tell us about PrismWare!
PrismWare, Inc. was created years ago as a holding corporation for copyrights and patents I might want to file. Then a couple years ago I invented a jig for faceting glass so a glass artist friend of mine could create geodes and add faceting to pieces. It turns out that there is a niche market for such a device, so I began the patent process and started marketing it under my holding company. The device was quickly picked up by a glass cold working supplier, so now I manufacture and sell the LapDancer faceting jig exclusively through them. The irony that the name PrismWare came years before I developed a device that actually makes prisms is not lost on me.

What’s your favorite hangout in Livingston County?
My favorite hangout, if by no other measure than the number of times I’m there, would be Island Lake State Recreation Area’s Spring Mill Pond. I work from home, so as soon as the weather allows, lunch consists of riding the trails and stopping at SMP to eat. Close seconds would be the Living On The Etch glass studio and Hometown, of course.

Hobbies (other than riding)?
I love hockey. I played for years and may try to get back into it this spring. My son managed Brighton High School’s hockey team and my daughter was on numerous travel teams. They both still play and I still watch BHS games, so I can often be found at some rink or another. I also spend inordinate amounts of time writing software and inventing things. Having a 3D printer allows me to go from concept to prototype with all sorts of crazy ideas.

Winter, spring, summer or fall?
SUMMER! Give me heat!

Fat Tire Bikes: We rent ’em, you ride ’em!

Rental Rates:
$25 for one ride
$50 for same day (return before shop closes)
$120 for 3 days
$200 for 5 days
We bike snow. We bike cold. We bike wind. We bike mild, spring-like winter days. We bike it ALL! If you would like to join us for some serious winter cycling fun this Saturday, check out our weekly Fat Bike Friendly Ride.

Young Women’s Entrepreneurship Event:

Tuesday, March 12th from 6:00-7:30 PM

The evening will be chock full of fun and invaluable information to help the young women in our lives explore and develop their entrepreneurial talents. If you are a middle school or high school student, or a young woman in her late teens/early 20’s, who is interested in starting your own business (or already have!), you will not want to miss our Young Women’s Entrepreneurship event.

We are super stoked to announce our guest speaker for this GIRL POWER event: Jennifer Matras, Owner and Head Skating Coach at Competitive Edge Skating.

With over 25 years of skating and training experience, Jennifer is a highly sought after skill development instructor AND a fabulous female business owner. Competitive Edge Skating is the result of Jennifer’s commitment and passion to developing a company where athletes are provided everything they need to reach their highest level of performance.

Everyone who signs up for the event will receive a PDF version of Jennifer’s inspirational book, Building an Uncommon Champion: Help Your Child Redefine Success. Jennifer’s goal is to spread this message as much as possible to help change how coaches, teachers and mentors interact with this younger generation, and to help eradicate bullying.

SIGN UP HERE!

Stay tuned for more details as your Hometown gals, Dawn and Leslie, plan this free event for YOU.

Tour de Livingston Celebration Luncheon!

Hometown Bicycles was honored at the Tour de Livingston Celebration Luncheon this past Monday, February 4th, along with the many wonderful sponsors who supported the 2018 event.

A good time was had by all… delicious food, camaraderie, and an overview of how the funds raised help so many in our local community… all wonderful things.

Some of our Jersey Riders were present and received awards for their participation. Pictured below from left to right: Joe Ostervik, Neal Glazebrook, Jacob Henrikson and Adam Baranski.

Thank you to each and every one of our Team Hometown riders for being part of the Tour. You represent us so well and we are really proud to call you our own!
Save the Date!
2019 Tour de Livingston
Sunday, October 6

Upcoming Community Room Events and Happenings!

Health Workshop!
Join Dr. Kyle Conn from Lifetime Family Chiropractic for Sports Performance 101: What the experts won’t tell you about enhancing your performance naturally. Wednesday, February 13
7-8 PM

This health workshop is FREE and open to the community. Click here to sign up!

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New class offering!
intenSati with Dawn Gaden, RYT

Bring a mat and bring a friend for FREE to the kickoff class on Sunday, February 24th from 10-11 AM.

What is intenSati? A combination of movement, music, voice and stillness to create a powerful transforming experience. Tap into your full potential with Dawn, one of only a handful of intenSati instructors in the state of Michigan.

$10 drop-in. More information can be found here.

FITNESS CLASSES AT HOMETOWN BICYCLES

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

Power 30 | Wednesdays 7 PM
$5 drop in – With Martha Soraruf | Click to learn more

Zumba | Mondays 6 PM & Thursdays 9:30 AM
$8 drop in or “10 classes for $60” punch card – With Leslie Barrett | Click to learn more

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

intenSati | Sundays 10 AM
$10 drop in – With Dawn Gaden | Click to learn more

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: best bicycle repair, best bicycle service, best bike repair, best bike service, bicycle clinics, bicycle rentals, bicycle repair, bicycle service, bicycle shop, bicycles, bike clinics, bike fitting, bike rentals, bike repair, bike rides, bike service, bike shop, bikes, Brighton, Brighton ATA Martial Arts, Cardio Drumming, CJ and Sarah Horn, Competitive Edge Skating, cycling, cyclists, Dawn Gaden, Dr. Kyle Conn, fat bikes, fat tire bikes, fitness classes, group rides, Hometown Bicycles, Hometown Bikes, Hometownies, intenSati, Jennifer Matras, Leslie Barrett, Lifetime Family Chiropractic, livingston county, Martha Soraruf, Michigan, PrismWare, shop rides, Songahm Taekwondo, Steve Wortley, Team Hometown Bicycles, team sponsors, Tour de Livingston, Tresa O’Rourke, Vinnie Baylerian, young women entrepreneurs, zumba, Zumba Gold | Leave a comment »

Hometown on Parade and a 42-Bike Salute

Posted on July 7, 2018 by Shaun

PROOF POSITIVE THAT OPTIMISM REALLY DOES PAY OFF…
We were POSITIVE that we could help the Brighton Optimist Club top last year’s participation numbers in their annual Fourth of July Bike Decorating Contest & Parade Ride, and boy did we ever!! Nearly 50 participants packed the roadway in this year’s parade, up from a little over 10 last year!

Brighton Optimist Club, by the way, has been dedicated to “Bringing out the best in children” since 1977. We are honored that they chose Hometown to help make this the best year ever – thank you, Brighton Optimists!! And thanks to ALL of you who came out in support of their worthy mission – Shaun and I loved riding with you, and can’t wait to do it again next year!!

(To point out a few highlights: You probably already recognize the fuzzy guy and his family in the upper left; directly below left is Brighton Optimist Club President Gary London, who’s had faith in Hometown since Day One!; in the middle is Kurt and his beautiful family, who had such a great time that they’re already planning for next year!; and bottom right is Hometown’s own Amy Gluck and Team rider Joe Van Gorden leading up the bicycles with the Brighton Optimist Club banner!

(A few of the fabulous folks at Lake Trust Credit Union who participated in their corporate Build-A-Bike charity program. Shaun and I are at bottom right, geeking out over sitting beside President & CEO David Snodgrass, who’s incidentally no stranger to cycling! Photo cred: © Lake Trust Credit Union)

A 42-KIDS-BIKE BUILD-A-THON WITH LAKE TRUST

When we find fellow businesses whose values align with our own, it’s a thrill and joy to forge partnerships that span industries and grow year by year. We’ve enjoyed that sort of relationship with Lake Trust Credit Union – a company founded on community-centeredness – first as customers, then as partners in charity.

Lake Trust recently tapped on Hometown for a commendable corporate Build-a-Bike program. With Hometown’s help, their team built up 42 Jamis kids bikes, which were then donated to 16 amazing organizations, including LACASA, Make A Wish Foundation of MI and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Livingston. You can read the full account on their blog HERE.

If you would also like to involve Hometown Bicycles in your next Corporate project or wellness program, please contact me (Dawn) at office@myhometownbicycles.com. We love making new friends!

TEAM NEWS: In the thick of summer cycling…

Our Team has been busy, busy, busy with rides and races across the State! Above, you’re seeing Team rockstar, Ellen Geddie, who road 46 miles of Blue Water Ramble in the rain!!

Jim Cleer and John Wyatt got down to business at the MSU Gran Fondo, which is known as 80 miles of “rolling party”, with music, food, and brews along the way!

Team bike goddesses, Amy Daybird, Sarah Dudley-Short, and Deanna Swan made a powerhouse trio at the 10th Anniversary Tri Goddess Tri, the first ever all-women’s triathlon/duathlon.

And 12 Team riders hit the trails at the Island Lake Challenge Mountain Bike Race – a Yellow Loop fiesta of dirt track and determination. Shout out to Brad Allen, Leslie Cook, Cammie Coffey, Keith Cowger, Mike Dyer, Jay Mings, Kasandra Noel, Brien TerBush, Jim Thompson, Link Wehrly, Steve Wortley and Kevin Machuga. Brad killed it with a 1st in Open Sport Fat Bike, and Keith dominated with a 1st in his age division for Sport!

VISIT HOMETOWN AT A TASTE OF BRIGHTON!

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

SAVE THE DATE: HOMETOWN JULY JUBILEE (7/15)

Last year, we introduced the Hometown Bicycles Annual July Jubilee & Salewith a “huzzah!” heard ‘round the world! Now this year’s July 15th Jubilee takes the fun had last year, and exponentially multiplies it for an utterly epic, carnival-style, super-event that your whole family will love!!

— JULY JUBILEE EVENT & SALE – Sunday, July 15 from 1-5pm —

Food & YUMMMMMMMMMM Cotton Candy!!
Hydration courtesy Team Sponsor Beauchamp Water Treatment & Supply!Face Painting
Artistic talent provided by Alison Peasley!Games & Prizes
Including water balloon tournaments on the front lawn, tire toss, tricycle tug-of war, andcrazy cool lawn games, courtesy of Team Sponsor Hamburg Fitness Center & Camp!Family Classes & Demos
Including Zumba-Cardio Drumming Fusion with Leslie Barrett and Martha Soraruf, Acro Yoga with Yoga Nature, Flow Yoga with Michelle Klinger, and Belly Dancing with One Spirit Dance & Fitness of Pinckney (all PG and kid-friendly!)Tour de Livingston Tent
Learn about Hometown’s favorite local charity ride from creators, Howell Rotary andLivingston County United Way!*** MEGA SUMMER BLOWOUT SALE on accessories – from bags to bells to saddles to tools – to make way for new product lines that you’re going to LOVE!! ***

———— JULY JUBILEE RIDE – Sunday, July 15 at 3:30pm ————-

Join our Team and Crew on a MASSIVE, July Jubilee Ride, for riders of all types, ages, and skill levels. We leave from the shop at 3:30pm for a leisurely spin around Island Lake. Make friends, have fun, and be back just in time for our…

— RED, WHITE, & BLUES CONCERT – Sunday, July 15, 5-8pm —

This ‘funk’y fundraising concert rounds out our July Jubilee celebration with the bluesy rock and roll of Hometown’s long time service tech and purveyor of extraordinary bike knowledge, Dan “CycloDan” Tribble, and his PBR Band.Enjoy outstanding music, dancing, snacks (BYOB), and socializing… all while directly supporting your fellow cyclist and Hometownie, Dan Rosenhack, and his amazing family. Dan’s diagnosis of terminal brain cancer has resulted in costly medical and living expenses, and this concert is geared to help relieve the financial strain on his family. Half of your $10 cover charge helps pay for the band, and half will be gifted to Dan Rosenhack’s family.

It’s laid back, funky fun that will wow your ears and tickle your tastebuds, all while supporting a deeply meaningful cause.Please let us know you’re coming, so we can plan for enough refreshments!

KIDS SELF DEFENSE CLASS AT HOMETOWN

JULY 26, 7-8PM: If someone wants to hurt our children, they won’t choose a time or a place with witnesses. The safety of our children will depend on their ability to recognize a threat and respond effectively.

Hometown is thrilled to welcome back Ian Kinder of Live Safe Academy for a fun, interactive and age-appropriate workshop that teaches essential, lifesaving information about threats, strategies for prevention, and real world techniques.

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

PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTES FOR HOMETOWN!

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

UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

Saturday Road Ride

SATURDAY, JULY 7 | 11:00AM (MEET BY 10:45AM) | FROM HOMETOWN BICYCLES
This one’s for the beginner rider who wants to increase mileage and speed. We’ll ride the well-known “to-the-Green-Dumpster-and-back” loop (~12-15 miles), or more for those who are ready. A and B groups will average 10-15+ mph. Road bikes only! Please have some experience on your bike, along with basic shifting and braking skills for the safety of the group. Beyond that, we’ll share some tips to make the hills easier and the flats faster! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Sunday Hartland Gravel Grinder

SUNDAY, JULY 8 | 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! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Sunday Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride

SUNDAY, JULY 8 | 4:30PM (MEET BY 4:15PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
Join your Hometown Crew for our beginner-friendly mountain bike trail ride, which encourages riders to explore new trails as their skill level increases. This week, we’ll enjoy 9 – 15 miles of Island Lake single track over the course of 1.5 hours. All levels welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged. Riders under 15 must remain with their guardian throughout the ride. Be mindful that the trail has several hills and some minimum level of fitness will be helpful to make for a positive experience. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Monday Beginner-Friendly Road Ride

MONDAY, JULY 9 | 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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Ladies’ Road Ride

TUESDAY, JULY 10 | 6:45PM (MEET BY 6:30PM) | 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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Advanced Skills & Drills

TUESDAY, JULY 10 | 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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Gravel Grinding 101

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 | 5:45PM (MEET BY 5:30PM) | 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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Slow Roll Social Ride

THURSDAY, JULY 12 | 10:00AM (MEET BY 9:45AM) | FROM HOMETOWN
This ride is all about making friends! 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. We might just stop for coffee and donuts along the way! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Ladies Only Beginner Mountain Bike Ride

THURSDAY, JULY 12 | 6:15PM (MEET BY 6:00PM) | 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!

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Friday Night Lights
FRIDAY, JULY 13 | 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!

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 moreZUMBA | 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

The best thing about memories is making them.

~ Love from Shaun, Dawn, and the family

Filed under: Hometown Bicycles | Tagged: Amy Daybird, best bicycle repair, best bicycle service, best bike repair, best bike service, bicycle clinics, bicycle repair, bicycle service, bicycle shop, bicycles, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Livingston, bike clinics, bike decorating contest, bike repair, bike rides, bike service, bike shop, bikes, Blue Water Ramble, Brad Allen, Brien Terbush, Brighton, Brighton Optimist Club, Build-a-Bike, Cammie Coffey, Cardio Drumming, charity concert, cycling, cyclists, Dan Tribble, David Snodgrass, Dawn Bhajan, Deanna Swan, Ellen Geddie, fitness classes, Fourth of July parade, group rides, Hometown Bicycles, Hometownies, Island Lake Challenge MTB Race, Jamis Bikes, Jay Mings, Jim Cleer, Jim Thompson, John Wyatt, July Jubilee, Kasandra Noel, Keith Cowger, Kevin Machuga, LACASA, Lake Trust Credit Union, Leslie Barrett, Leslie Cook, Link Wehrly, livingston county, Livingston Daily People's Choice, Make-A-Wish Michigan, Martha Soraruf, Michigan, mike dyer, mountain bike race, MSU Gran Fondo, PBR Band, Sarah Dudley-Short, Shaun Bhajan, shop rides, Steve Wortley, Taste of Brighton, Team Hometown Bicycles, Tri Goddess Tri, Vote4theBest, zumba | Leave a comment »

Rides, Picnics, Festivals, Parades & Jubilees for Hometownies

Posted on June 9, 2018 by Shaun

A Team to Write Home-townies About

LET ME TELL YOU WHAT YOUR TEAM DID…
Last weekend marked the first annual Team Picnic social, held at the beautiful Riverbend picnic area in Island Lake. Our Team gathered for an afternoon of cycling, potluck, grilling, socializing… and astonishing me and Shaun! With Bond-ian stealth, our Team coordinated a surprise 8th birthday gift for Hometown Bicycles – an emergency defibrillator wall unit – and presented it at the picnic. Thanks for the brilliant addition to our shop, Team – we’re feelin’ the love… and it’s mutual!

Key players: Team Social Sponsor, Sean Lowry of Lowry Solutions (top left), was the catalyst behind this event, and we were thrilled to meet his growing family. (Thanks again, Sean!) A Hometown favorite and long-standing, outstanding Service Lead Andrew (top middle) dropped by between grad parties to hang with his Hometownies. Grill masters Steve (bottom left) and Jim (bottom middle) were heroes to all of us hungry cyclists. Our awesome Ride Coordinator, Laura (bottom right), was mastermind and MC for this event. And a shout out goes to Hometown’s newest Events Coordinator and long-time Zumba queen, Leslie, for leaping in head first to set up one seriously successful picnic!

TEAM NEWS: HANSON HILLS, T-SHIRT RIDE & CYCLISTS GONE FISHIN’

Missing the Team picnic in the line of duty (i.e. representing in the Hometown kit), our thanks and kudos goes to Linc Wehrly, who placed a respectable 5th at Hanson Hills Challenge Mountain Bike Race up in Grayling.

Team Co-Captain Jim Cleer toured Grand Ledge in his unmistakably Hometown apparel at the annual Tri-County Bicycle Association T-Shirt Ride.

And Steve Wortley did some lake-side promotion, wearing his Team gear for a recent fishing trip. Must have brought him some good luck, too, by the looks of it. Nice catch, Steve!

Thanks for spreading the love, Team!

TOMORROW (6/10): TAKE A KID MOUNTAIN BIKING!

What could make a more perfect Sunday than to rev up the next generation of cyclists with a day devoted solely to making mountain biking fun for kids!

We ♥ ♥ ♥ the PotoMBA’s annual Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day celebration and event. There’s food, families, trail fun, and Hometown will be there, proudly supporting the creation of future cycling fanatics! We’ve been honored to be an ongoing part of this awesome event – offering support, safety checks, and mini-cyclist education – and can’t wait to see you and your young’uns at this year’s to-do.

For details and info, CLICK HERE. Event runs TOMORROW, JUNE 10 from 10am-2pm!

HOMETOWN’S NON-HOSTILE MILFORD TAKE-OVER

Hometown shirts and jerseys were in abundance at last weekend’s MCMBA Milford Bike Fest & Trail Challenge. Attendees said our Team represented in the best possible way, with scores of Hometownie volunteers and riders exhibiting the best in helpfulness, sportsmanship, and personability. We couldn’t be prouder of all of you!We were geeked to be this year’s premier Bike Shop Sponsor, and sent our Milford connection – Service Manager Matt Fitzhorn – to offer SAG and swag. He captured a few photos (above), including a sea of cycles, the beginner group ride, and a cozy collection of event tents, where Matt got participants back in the saddle. A great turn-out for a great event – shout out to the MCMBA for our invite. We can’t wait to see what next year’s brings!

RIDE WITH SHAUN IN BRIGHTON’S JULY 4 PARADE!

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE: HOMETOWN JULY JUBILEE (7/15)

Leapfrogging off the fun that was had at last year’s July Jubilee, we’re celebrating this year’s Sunday, July 15th event with a day of cycling, sales, family activities, food, sweets, games, prizes, special guests, and then kicking it up a notch with a special evening concert starring Hometown’s CycloDan Tribble and his Progressive Blues & Rhythm Band. Add it to your calendar, and stay tuned for details!

REGISTER FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS: JUNE 23

This local favorite is just around the corner – have you already registered… ???Poses, Pedals & Pints: Summer 2018 registration is nearly here! The event opens with beginner-friendly yoga, courtesy of Tocca Massage & Yoga, followed by a leisurely and scenic ride with Team Hometown, ending with a long, cool pull from the taps of Brewery Becker. We’ll save you a chair!

REGISTER NOW FOR POSES, PEDALS & PINTS – JUNE 23, 2018

MORE FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR BICYCLE

If you’re on the prowl for family and cycling adventures beyond the rides and races, here’s a resource you’ll absolutely love! Pure Michigan has put together a list of fairs and festivals throughout this great State that will astonish and delight. Where will YOUR next adventure be?

UPCOMING SHOP RIDES

Saturday Road Ride

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 | 11:00AM (MEET BY 10:45AM) | 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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Hartland Gravel Grinder – Intermediate/Advanced

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 | 9:00AM (MEET BY 8:45AM) | FROM HOMETOWN BICYCLES
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! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

*** RENT A FAT BIKE AT THE SHOP! ***
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Exploring Trails Mountain Bike Ride

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 | 4:30PM (MEET BY 4:15PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
Join your Hometown Crew for our beginner-friendly mountain bike trail ride, which encourages riders to explore new trails as their skill level increases. This week, we’ll enjoy 9 – 15 miles of Island Lake single track over the course of 1.5 hours. All levels welcome – NO DROP RIDE. Mountain and Fat Bikes are encouraged. Riders under 15 must remain with their guardian throughout the ride. Be mindful that the trail has several hills and some minimum level of fitness will be helpful to make for a positive experience.Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!*** RENT A FAT BIKE AT THE SHOP! ***

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Monday Beginner-Friendly Road Ride

SATURDAY, JUNE 11 | 6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
This one’s for the beginner rider who wants to increase mileage and speed. We’ll ride the well-known “to-the-Green-Dumpster-and-back” loop (~12-15 miles), or more for those who are ready. A and B groups will average 10-15+ mph. Road bikes only! Please have some experience on your bike, along with basic shifting and braking skills for the safety of the group. Beyond that, we’ll share some tips to make the hills easier and the flats faster! Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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Advanced Skills & Drills

TUESDAY, JUNE 12 | 6:00PM (MEET BY 5:45PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
Want to learn to ride with a peloton? This ADVANCED, road warrior training is led by our Team racers! You’ll learn and practice: draft lines, hill repeats and intervals. Come ready to work hard at an average 20mph pace. Bring a cadence sensor, speed sensor, and heart rate monitor. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!………………………………………………..

Ladies’ Road Ride
TUESDAY, JUNE 12 | 7:00PM (MEET BY 6:45PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
Ladies, this one’s just for you! This weekly, road ride is for gals of all ability levels. We’ll ride the well-known “green dumpster” loop at Island Lake (~14 miles) at a conversational, 10mph pace. All bikes welcome, NO DROP RIDE. Afterward, relax, connect, and rehydrate with your new biking friends. BYOB!Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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

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

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Ladies Only Beginner Mountain Bike Ride
THURSDAY, JUNE 14 | 6:30PM (MEET BY 6:15PM) | FROM HOMETOWN
Ladies, come learn beginning mountain bike skills! We’ll tackle the trails in manageable bites, with the empowering support of skilled and supportive Hometown women. We’ll ride together to Island Lake Recreation Area, and focus on taking the fear and uncertainty out of riding the trails! NO DROP. Check Facebook for ride confirmation and changes!

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

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