15 December 2010

Why Did You Start Cycling?


Reasons are as varied and inspirational as the cyclists that comprise the BicyclingHub.com community



"CYCLING HAS CHANGED / EXTENDED MY LIFE. I'm a new, happier, more relaxed, skinnier, more energetic, etc. person thanks to cycling. I rode in my twenties and LOVED it. Wish I had never quit cycling." ~Robert P.

Last week, we ran another fun contest on BicyclingHub's Facebook page with the open-ended question, "Why do you love cycling?" The topic generated over 36 short essay responses that spoke directly to the wonder, freedom, and liberation we often experience during a ride. What moved us most, though, were our readers' testimonials about getting a second lease on life and making every moment count. They also serve as a reminder that it's never too late to start, and enjoying the simple pleasures a bicycle ride can yield.

Congratulations to Robert P. for his WINNING ENTRY in our contest. If you're in the Pacheco, California area, look for Robert riding around town sporting his NEW BicyclingHub.com Jersey by Castelli and loving the ride!

The Winner

"In April of 2009 I was having pain / soreness in my chest. I went to the doctor and he took an x-ray. A went back for the x-ray consult and the doctor said, "we need to talk". "We found a spot on your right lung". I was SCARED to death and immediately broke out into a cold sweat. After my consultation, I went to my car and threw out a brand new pack of cigarettes. YES, I was 47 years old and a 30+ year smoker. I immediately went to my LBS and bought a comfort bike. Was doing 10 miles, then 20, etc. 3-4 times a week. My doctor called me a month later and said, "let's do an MRI to make sure it's a spot on your lung, etc.". It ended up being a large mole on my back that appeared on the xray as being a spot on my lung. OMGoodness was I relieved. I bought a drop bar road bike and got very serious. Long story short, I rode 6000 miles in 2010, did Levi's Gran Fondo, did the MS Waves to Wine, ride up Mt. Diablo at least the junction at least twice a week, did the Mt Diablo challenge in 73 minutes. OH YEAH, I was 225 pounds and 6'0". I am now 185 pounds and still 6'0". CYCLING HAS CHANGED / EXTENDED MY LIFE. I'm a new, happier, more relaxed, skinnier, more energetic, etc. person thanks to cycling. I rode in my twenties and LOVED it. Wish I had never quit cycling." -Robert P.

Podium-Worthy Entries:

"Growing up cycling, I took for granted the reason for riding. For me, it was just a way to keep up with my big brother. During the teen years, it was a way for me to talk with my parents, tackling hard subjects while battling wet roots and mud. Cycling was my escape from the reality of working and college. It was cheap and needed no one but my own self. I lost the path for a while. Then, a friend asked me about mountain biking and asked me to teach her. The joy on her face as she rolled her first obstacle made me want to get more people to ride. Since then, I've converted 5 women into bike nuts. We go out and hit the trails, rain or shine. Through heartbreak, injuries, and the general crazyness of life, a bikeride will always provide an answer." ~Gretchen V. S.

"I, like many others, started cycling because I realized that after I entered my 30's that staying fit wasn't as easy as it used to be. Earlier this year, I looked in the mirror and realized that I was a shell of myself ... I was an athlete in high school and a division three soccer player ... fitness was easy for me. However; since I had my daughter, everything else took priority and I ballooned up up 248 lbs. After looking in the mirror and realizing I needed to do something, running wasn't cutting it (I didn't like it) ... I decided to give biking a try ... and I've been hooked ever since ... I bought my first bike (a Trek Hybrid 7.5fx) and started riding and soon upgraded to a Trek Madone (and now look for a nice Cervelo) ... I ride because I now love it ... and because I want to be around for my now 8 year old daughter. I've lost 44 pounds in less than 6 months and look forward to every ride, but most importantly, I started riding because of me ... and to make a "better" me ... Thanks for all of the great products and support to the BicyclingHub community!" -Rich M.

"I realized that after having my children I was in danger of 'losing' myself in motherhood - so I got on a bike for sanity, exercise and fun:) " ~Joanna P. P.

"I started cycling at a very young age. I came from a very bad home, and my parents were too busy to do anything with me. I was not allowed to do many things, but they figured that if they let me ride my bicycle, I couldn't be too far. Buying me that red Kia Star 10 speed was the best thing that ever happened to me. I could ride 40 or 50 miles a day, go anywhere I wished, and that thought I was close by. To me, that bicycle meant freedom, and I have been riding ever since." ~Ricardo O.

"I'd been working 10 miles from home for 4 years, and driving back and forth every day,when I saw a coworker who lived 16 miles away biking to work. He was 20 years my junior, but when gas went to $4/gal., 3 summers ago, I decided it was time for me to start biking to work again. That year, I did it less than 10 times, the next year, over 20, and this year, I bicycled to work 48 times. Next year, I'll try to do my age, which will be 56 years young." ~Irene L. O.

"My boss. He was relentless on how I needed to start biking like him. I bought a Wal-Mart bike and took one water bottle to a rail trail to get back on a bike after 30 years. I did not want to go to work and tell him I did not do the whole 32 mile loop. As a result I barely made it back to the car. Dehydrated and exhausted, I struggled to get the bike in the back of my van. I did not know a butt could swell. That was the beginning 10 years ago. Now I own 2 road bikes and 5 mtn bikes which cost more than my van and love cycling as the main passion in my life." ~Kelly B.

"In August 2008, I was 240 pounds and dreadfully out of shape. It didn't really bother me though until I watched a marathon of Gene Kelly movies. I was in absolute awe of how fit the man was at the same age I was, and disgusted at the fact I could barely waddle across the room. A few months later, a co-worker died of a weight-related issue, and I realized I could be joining her if I didn't do something.

I somehow mounted the stationary bike (darn Wisconsin winter) and stuck with it five days a week until spring, when I remembered my broken 1993 Trek mountain bike sitting sadly in the corner. Turns out it just needed a tune-up. I did everything wrong that first ride (got my pants caught in the sprocket) and couldn't make it up the baby hill. But again, I pedalled on, and was soon doing 15 miles several times a week, ending with 900 miles in 2009. In March of this year I was diagnosed with diabetes, and found out how important exercise is to managing the disease. Biking has become essential to staying healthy. Training for two half-marathons brought my mileage down a little to 700 this year, but I still rode 40 miles for 40 years, and made it up two monster hills in my area. I now weigh 170, feel fabulous, and am determined to keep pedaling (hopefully on a new cross-bike!)"
~Patty G.

"Had chronic back pain and the resulting depression that goes along with it. I figured I could not hurt anymore so I took a chance. I am pain free for 2+ years and riding strong. I am doing my first solo 24 hour race in February. Only 2 1/2 years after riding a mountain bike for the first time. THAT IS A PRIVILEDGE! Mountain biking CHANGED my life. IT SAVED ME." ~Gianna B.

"On January 1, 2010 I took a long hard look at where I was and where I was going. At 6'1" I weighed in at 293 pounds. I suffered from sleep apnea, high blodd pressure and high cholesterol. I have a family history of bad habits and early-age heart disease. I knew that I could go one of two ways - to an early grave or a complete turn into a healthy lifestyle. Having two wonderful kids and a lovely wife, I decided I wanted to stick around for a few more years. I bought a $250 used Fuji road bike on Craigslist and set out to ride in the middle of winter. My first ride - 11 miles - proved to me just how unfit I was. I couldn't walk very well the next day. Instead of giving up, I got back up the next morning and did it all over again. I reached out to the local cycling club and struck up some friendships with other area cyclists. They took me under their wing, got me involved in their beginner group and showed me lots of patience as I slowly worked my way up the hills of middle Tennessee. As time wore on, I saw my weight dropping and my stamina increasing.

After 10 months of getting up every morning and riding 20+ miles before work plus a healthy diet, I had lost 115 pounds. For the first time since high school, I was thin. My BMI was "normal". My sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure had all vanished. I felt great. On August 15th, I upgraded my old Craigslist bike with a brand-new shniy full carbon Fuji. On August 21st, I completed my first century ride. On September 11th, I completed my 2nd. On October 24th, I completed my third. I plan to complete one more during the week of Christmas. Since discovering fitness cycling in February, I have logged more than 4,000 miles and made a wonderful group of friends. My success with weight loss (the good old-fashioned way) has been contagious among my friends and coworkers. I can honestly say that cycling has saved my life. I am looking forward to many, many years of happy miles." ~Jason R.

Honorable Mentions

"I wanted to sexy for my hubby and healthy for me!" Tona J-G

"Y'all will think this is nuts. I got a bike soto ride a ways from the house so I could smoke without my kids seeing me smoke (didn't want to set a bad example). Over time, I began to enjoy the riding more than the smoking, so I quit smoking and started riding more. The rest, as they say, is history. Crazy, I know - truth is stranger than fiction." ~Paul L.

"I was diagnosed with Arthritis about 3 years ago and the more I read about it losing weight and low impact exercise was the key to living a better life. Cycling was the answer for me and now it’s a life style. I turned 50 this year and for my birthday I spent the day cycling best dam birthday present I have ever gave myself!" ~Joe G.

"Because my husband didn't want me to! Had to finally ditch him in order to take my first cross country biking trip! :) "~Meg R.

"Because I was so pissed off about being injured from a car wreck that I decided to stay strong by training for tri's and fell in love with cycling!!!" ~Jennifer B. K.

"My husband has been a cyclist and triathlete for years, and I needed to do something that we both could do together, so instead of just hanging out a movie together then dinner, we now can go for a ride together and have lunch or just coffee on the way. Great Fitness, great outings. Families who play together stay together." ~Jane B.

"Truly by accident, I was looking into a scooter to commute 2 work and found a bicycle instead. Commuting by bicycle to work has really helped me in my life, in which I am truly grateful." ~Michael M.

"The first time I was on a "two-wheeler" bike I was four. After one trip down the street I came home and told me dad to remove the training wheels, then I rode up and down the street all day nonstop. I was a four year old in love!! I wanted to ride my bike all around the world, from one side of the country to the other. This feeling comes over me every time I ride. I can't get enough. This year, in the last six months alone I've logged more than 4,000 miles. It is still my dream to ride coast to coast. There is no substitute for the freedom and the power I feel with the wind blowing behind me, the rain falling down on me and the scents of pine while riding through the mountains. I just love it!!! And, by the way ... just saying ... I ride a Klein and it is beautiful .. and I am so proud of my bike and would love to ride with a new BicyclingHub jersey!!!!!" ~Rose E.

"Because I was bored working ladies fashions for REI and wanted to switch to the cycling department where I could meet cute, slim dudes!" ~Julia A. B.

09 December 2010

Give the Gift of Good Health this Holiday Season

Online Fundraiser to Benefit American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure

BicyclingHub.com knows its customers ride their bicycles for different reasons: fun, fitness, transportation, recreation, and/or restoration. And sometimes, they ride for a cause. Now they can shop for one, too: on Friday, December 10th, BicyclingHub.com is teaming up with the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure and donating 10% of all sales to aid in the fight against diabetes.

The premise behind this unique holiday fundraiser is simple: the more items an individual purchases for loved ones (or themselves), the larger the donation to the Tour de Cure. By simply utilizing the unique link http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?bicyclinghub+MnZSbN+index.html+ to shop online, proceeds will be automatically directed to the American Diabetes Association.

"The Tour de Cure is a great fit for BicyclingHub.com's giving goals. Not only is the ride about raising money for the American Diabetes Association, it's also about a healthy lifestyle that includes the cycling," states Doug Duguay, President of BicyclingHub.com.
"BicyclingHub.com has raised over $5,000 for Tour de Cure in the past 2 years, we appreciate their continued support and hope everyone shops this Friday," enthuses Kris Bockmier, Associate Director, American Diabetes Association.
In 2011, the Tour de Cure is celebrating 20 years and 83 cities riding strong nationwide. 10% of total proceeds from this special one-day online fundraiser will benefit the Portland Tour de Cure, scheduled for July 30, 2011. Starting from Hillsboro Stadium, the scenic ride offers cyclists of all abilities an opportunity to enjoy the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley. Tour de Cure is a series of fundraising cycling events held in 43 states nationwide to support the ADA's mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information about the event, visit: tour.diabetes.org .

To find the perfect gifts for the cyclists in your life and join the fight to prevent and cure diabetes, be sure to utilize this link on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10th and make EVERY DOLLAR COUNT. Duguay states, “Go ahead and place your holiday order as you normally would; we'll take care of the rest!”

01 December 2010

12 Days of Christmas starts TODAY!


12 Days of Christmas Equals 12 Days to Save!

BicyclingHub.com is helping you sprinkle holiday cheer across the roadways and along the trails with our 12 Days of Christmas special deals and super savings. From December 1st - December 12th, each day will feature a new sale, exclusive offer or special giveaway to get you ready for family gift exchanges, Secret Santa swaps, and thoughtful surprises loved ones will appreciate and utilize for seasons to come.

Prepare to reach into our Musette Bag of Savings and check back daily for exclusive deals!



Sneak Peek at today's Exclusive Deal

ONE DAY ONLY! Buy any pair of cycling shorts or bibshorts, get the second pair 25% off!

Buy one pair of cycling shorts or bibshorts, get the second pair 25% off! With a heavy arsenal of cycling shorts for both men and women in a variety of sizes, styles and color themes, and over 40 varieties of bibshorts, we're Not SHORT on quality or selection this holiday season.

NOTE: select the shorts or bibshorts you desire and physically place them in your shopping cart; the savings will be shown under the "Discounts" section of the page and automatically deducted from your purchase.

25% discount applies to the item of equal or lesser value. Hurry! Offer expires December 2, 2010.

23 November 2010

Guaranteed Hits for the Holidays

1. College jerseys are #1!

College jerseys make wonderful gifts for current students, graduates and alumni all year-round, but are consistent top-sellers during the holiday season. BicyclingHub.com proudly stocks over 70 official collegiate cycling jerseys from your favorite team mascots across the U.S. And don't forget the matching college cycling socks!


2. Sports jerseys

Whether your passion is major league baseball, hockey, or football, our collection of sports team cycling jerseys ensures you'll find one to root for this holiday season.


3. Beer Jerseys and Cycling Caps

Cycling beer jerseys and beer-themed caps, such as the Arrogant Bastard Ale jersey and North Coast's Acme Ale cap pictured here, are the perfect pairing of two things many cyclists love best: a day on the bike, and a fine micro-brew enjoyed with compatriots afterward. Now you can give the essence of both, in one tasty, refreshing package.

4. Castelli NanoFlex Arm Warmers

Check out our Youtube video!

Winter-weight warmers are always a great way to extend your wardrobe as well as battle ever-changing weather. With the addition of a lightweight fleece that sheds water from that occasional rain shower, the Nanoflex arm, knee and leg warmers are multi-season and multi-purpose: you can't go wrong!

5. Campagnolo Cycling Caps

An oldie but goodie, you deny its timeless, classic appeal. Available in multiple colors to suit a variety of palettes.


6. Castelli Viva Thermo Skully - Red

When it comes to blocking out wind, retaining body heat and keeping comfortable, Castelli's Viva Thermo Skully helmet liner has got you covered on all levels. So dapper you'll likely wear it just as much on your off-bike adventures as on them.


7. Castelli Radiation 1-2-3 Jacket

One jacket for three seasons, comprised of the most technically advanced winter clothing system ever. Ideal and adaptable for almost every situation, this jacket promises to keep you riding strong no matter what Mother Nature decides to throw your way.


8. Pearl Izumi's 3-in-1 jacket

Three options for a bad weatherman: this comprehensive cold-weather system combines a Primaloft® liner jacket, Cocona™ Softshell outer Jacket and detachable thermal/softshell balaclava for maximum versatility and protection in the nastiest of conditions.


9. Green Eggs and Ham Cycling Jersey for Men and Women by Retro Image Apparel

Do you like green eggs and ham ? ... if so you'll love this jersey, Sam I Am! Relive those fond childhood memories and share them with the rest of the pack on your ride. This bright and cheery jersey will be sure and raise a smile.

10. His & Hers Lucky Lab Cycling jerseys for men and women

Served up by Micro Beer Jerseys, this vividly-colored jersey pays tribute to one of our many local Portland micro-breweries. We sure love our bikes, our doggies and our beer - it's tough to say in which particular order! Enjoy all three as you roll up to your favorite local pub for a post-ride refreshment.

11. Rosie the Riveter Women's Cycling Jersey

Next time your favorite female riding companion needs a little bit more inspiration to reach the top of the long climb or the next checkpoint, she can glance down at this iconic piece of WW II memorabilia and shout "WE CAN DO IT!" as she suddenly sprints past the pack. Fuel her passion and reward her ambitions with this gorgeous print guaranteed not to shrink or fade.

12. Chat Noir Women's Cycling Jersey

Le Chat Noir, a classic design made into wearable, functional, art courtesy of Retro Image Apparel. Parisian charm and sophistication meets dry sport wicking fabric, for ladies who like to sweat--and look good while doing it.


13. Canari Journey Long Sleeve Jersey - Blue

Constructed with Evolve Pro fabric - a fleecy-backed, warm and comfortable Micro-Denier Polyester yarn tightly knit to help keep out the wind. Perspiration is wicked away to the outside of the garment so that you stay warm and dry, not cold and clammy.

14. Canari Women's Alpine Long Sleeve Jersey

This attractive mid-weight jersey combines simple styling, a nice lightweight fleece good for colder temperatures, an easy layering option, and a great price point.


15. Castelli MC Wool Long Sleeve Jersey

As featured in Bicycling Magazine's The Best Holiday Gifts for Cyclists guide! "Whether you give it or ask to receive it, this cycling clothing for men is sure to satisfy."

The MC Wool jersey is quickly becoming BicyclingHub.com’s number one selling item. 70% wool and washable 30% acrylic blend makes this full-zip jersey easy to care for, and a joy to slip into time and time again.

16. Castelli Women's Opera Wool Long Sleeve Jersey

A great wool blend that is cute cute cute, this jersey is classically styled with cool Castelli embroidery on the chest for great looks. A 50% Merino wool and 50% fine gauge washable acrylic blend makes it easy to take care of and gives a soft feel against the skin.

17. Castelli Mod Sweater

This new casual sweater from Castelli puts a modern twist on their classic wool. With new modern graphics and a sharp looking sporty design, this is bound to be another favorite on your (and/or your loved one's) wish-list.

18. Showers Pass Helmet Cover

This new helmet cover from Showers Pass is perfect for the the rain, the wind, and the WET that is Winter. The lightweight, breathable and waterproof fabric is fully seam taped to make sure nothing gets in, and a removable drop-down rear brim deflects rain down the outside of your jacket, not down the inside and back of your neck. Thrills, not chills!


19. Pearl Izumi Amfib Cycling Tights

Warmth and versatility worth EVERY penny! These winter-weight padded cycling tights protect you from the wind and are extremely water-resistant. The Elite Thermal Fleece fabric helps draw sweat away from the skin and vent it out the rear panels, allowing the material to breathe as you sweat and prevent that cold, clammy feeling from sinking into your bones. A staff favorite!


20. Defeet Wooleator Sock

A treat for the feet, these winter-weight cycling socks are made with the finest quality Merino wool. Be sure to stock up on more than one pair, as your significant other or house mates may be raiding your drawers for "their" new favorite piece of luxuriously warm footwear!


21. Pearl Izumi Women's P.R.O Woolie Jersey Coffee

A semi-form fitting piece with a wool and acrylic blend knit brings style, warmth and comfort that will hold its shape season after season. Expect it to quickly become a staple in most wardrobes - works well for Fall, Winter or early Spring rides. Also works great and looks great on or off the bike - before, during or after your ride ........ or all of the above.


22. Castelli Merino Wool Long Sleeve Baselayer

Give the gift of WOOL this holiday season! Soft to the touch, this ultra fine and machine-washable 100% Australian merino wool doesn’t itch. Stay warm, dry and comfortable in this incredible baselayer, as you layer on the base miles in preparation for the season ahead.


23. Castelli Forza Glove Black

This beautifully stitched mid-weight glove offers considerable protection on those showery and windy days, especially in that variable temperature range of 46 to 60 degrees. Padded silicone palms enable you to keep a firm grip on those handlebars, and easy on/off Neoprene gussets provide comfort and allow free movement at the wrist.


24. Showers Pass Elite 2.0 Rain Jacket for Men and Women

One of the all-time favorites amongst BicyclingHub.com staff and customers alike, you'll be loved forever if you bestow one of these to your favorite cyclist X-Mas morning (or treat yourself to a well-deserved gift). If it's 40 degrees and raining, the Showers Pass Elite 2.0 is the ultimate go-to jacket. Whether you commute, enjoy fitness/recreational rides, tour by bike, or do all three, we hope it'll be yours too.


25. Gift Certificate

Not sure what size, what color, or what brand to get? A BicyclingHub.com Gift Certificate enables the lucky recipient to choose exactly what they want from our extensive catalog, and ensures your position on top of the gift-giving podium.

17 November 2010

Portland-based International Cycling Apparel Retailer Announces Relocation and Expansion


Despite uneven economic terrain, bicycling industry sales steadily continue to climb

Soon, 642 SE Stark St. will be welcoming another member of Portland’s growing bicycle-based businesses into the fold. “Do one thing and do it well," advises Douglas Duguay, owner and Sales Manager of BicyclingHub.com, an Internet-based company selling high-performance technical cycling gear throughout the U.S. and over 40 countries internationally, including Canada, Australia and Japan. “And no one knows cycling clothing better than our staff. Our new space will help us live up to our full potential."

Stationed near the corner of 7th Ave. and Sandy Blvd., two main corridors for bicycle commuters in the city’s well-mapped bicycle route network, Duguay expects walk-in business to increase significantly after the move, scheduled for November 30th, 2010. With 4,000 square ft. of warehouse and office space and a designated retail area, customers will feel welcome to browse and try items on before purchasing. “I’ve already submitted a request to the City to install a bike rack in front of the new building. It’s free for businesses, and it’s a terrific way to encourage more trips by bike,” says Duguay.

Located in the Platinum-Level Bicycle Friendly Community of Portland, Oregon, BicyclingHub.com has been selling top-quality cycling apparel on the Internet since 2001. From humble beginnings as a one-man operation selling cycling jerseys on EBay out of Duguay’s spare bedroom in Southeast Portland to the company’s current standing as a successful online retailer in the global marketplace, a strong commitment to customer satisfaction has always been the cornerstone of its mission.

(photo, right: BicyclingHub.com team members enjoy the metric century route of the 2010 Oregon Tour de Cure.) While the economy continues to make tentative steps toward recovery from what pundits have dubbed “The Great Recession,” BicyclingHub.com has enjoyed a significant growth rate in sales during 2010. Although the majority of sales are conducted online, customers in Portland have been requesting a retail showroom for some time; its Annual Warehouse Clearance Sale remains a perennial favorite amongst local cycling clubs, regional teams and OBRA (Oregon Bicycle Racing Association) members. Stocking such well-known brands such as Castelli, Pearl Izumi, Louis Garneau and Showers Pass, the site specializes in hard to find items, such as the Thor Hushovd Norwegian Champion jersey, the “28 Million” Team Radio Shack-LIVESTRONG Jersey, and the limited edition Cervelo Test Team Tour de France team kit. Routinely ranked “exceptional” in its customer service ratings and known for its friendly, knowledgeable, and reliable attention, staff are heavily encouraged to commute by bike and ride in the products they sell in order to give direct feedback to consumers and manufacturers.

(photo, left: Portland's Sunday Parkways program fill the streets with thousands of bike riders, from the very young to the very young at heart.) Portland, Oregon might well be considered the ultimate testing ground for cycling apparel in a wide range of weather conditions. Portland Development Commission, Business Oregon and Oregon Business Council cite Portland is force to be reckoned with in the Activewear and Outdoor Gear world for the last thirty years,” in the recently-released Portland Economic Development Strategy. Appreciative to be headquartered in the same city as manufacturers like Castelli, Retro Image Apparel and Showers Pass, and it's a rare day that goes by that staff don't spy a cyclist wearing one of the products they sell. Ed Dalton, Co-President/Principal of Showers Pass remarks, “For us, [Portland] is the perfect proving ground for our product. It would be a challenge for us if we were…. based in Southern California." As the first Internet retailer to sell Showers Pass outerwear directly to consumers, since 2005 BicyclingHub.com has sold upwards of 1,500 Showers Pass products alone and can authoritatively speak on behalf of the brand's quality, durability, and loyal fan base.

BicyclingHub.com’s new brick-and-mortar location at 642 SE Stark St. will allow the company to expand its local retail presence while continuing to offer outstanding customer service online and by phone. Customers may continue to shop online throughout the holiday season; a grand opening of the retail space is planned for February 2011. After nearly a decade in the bicycling industry, BicyclingHub.com proudly stocks the largest selection of quality men's and women's cycling clothing in the Pacific Northwest and remains committed to continuing its platinum-level standards of service, quality and prompt delivery.

12 November 2010

The Quintessential Fall Classic: The Tour of Lombardy


The Giro de Lombardia, aka the Tour of Lombardy, 2010. Photo source: steephill.tv

It's November Trivia Time! Test your prowess and knowledge of cycling history and impress your friends on the next group ride. How many can you answer without looking?

This month's topic: the Tour of Lombardy, aka “The Race of the Falling Leaves”


Questions:
Q1. Belgian hardman Phillipe Gilbert has won the last two Tours of Lombardy. Prior to Gilbert, who was the last previous back-to-back winner? For interests sake, let’s eliminate the “Italian Run” that preceded Gilbert (Bartoli in 2002-03, Bettini in 2005-06 and Cunego in 2007-08).


Q2. Lombardy is the only truly mountainous Classic and as such is won by Grand Tour riders more frequently than some of the other monuments in cycling. Who was the last Tour de France winner to triumph here?


Q3. Interestingly, a Spaniard has never won here, although Olympic Champion Sammy Sanchez has come close recently. With the Mountains and the proximity to the Spanish Vuelta, have there been any Vuelta/Lombardy doubles?




Answers:
A1. Another Belgian!!! Eddie Merckx in 1971/72!

Eddie Merckx says, "Everything in bicycling is about evolution." Photo, left: showing off one of his 2011 models at Interbike in Las Vegas, NV. Read BicyclingHub.com's full interview with him here.





A2. Frenchman Bernard Hinault in 1984. Now, given that IS an Italian Classic there were no less than three Giro winners in that time (Cunego, DiLuca, and Rominger)

Photo, right: Bernard Hinault, aka "The Badger," won an incredible 28 stages and five Tours, from 1978-1985, and was second twice, in 1984 and 1986. He's been ranked #3 in the Top 25 All-Time Tour de France Riders. Photo source: bleacherreport.net.


A3. Granted the Vuelta only switched to the Fall in 1995, but no one has done it. Even with the Mountains and the date proximity, Grand Tours and One Day Races have become two separate beasts. Vuelta Champion Vincenzo Nibali of Italy, however was 5th this year.

08 November 2010

Park-2-Park 2010 Raises $62,000 and Awareness of CASA Programs in Montana


Nearly 40 riders pedaled through the Roosevelt arch in Gardiner at Yellowstone Park after completing the 400-mile trip across Montana Sept. 10. Photo courtesy of Ellen Bush, CASA Montana.


Despite a struggling economy and reported cutbacks on charitable donations by individuals and families, The Sixth Annual Park-2-Park Montana 2010 fundraising event exceeded its target goal, reportedly raising $62,000 to help support CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) programs throughout Montana.

According to organizers, participants met their set goal of nearly $50,000 by the start of the event September 6th; since then, another $12,000 has been donated to provide advocacy for abused and neglected children so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes. Funds will be shared with 15 local programs in Montana through mini grants to assist program operation. Programs are currently recruiting new volunteers to speak up for children who are in the state’s court system through no fault of their own. More than 400 volunteers are now advocating for nearly 1,000 children who have suffered abuse and neglect.

Cyclist Troy Charbonneau was the top fundraiser at nearly $9,000, with the support of JCT Construction, Jim and Janet Charbonneau, Cycle Montana and the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Deputy Benevolence Association. Helena rider John Morrison raised $6,500 with the help of Platinum sponsors Presidio Insurance and ALPS Insurance. Great Falls attorney Dave Slovak was close behind with more than $5,000 in donations. Kalispell rider Susen Marie Ladd raised more than $4,000 for her fourth CASA ride, most in donations of $100 or less.
New York state rider Steve Suozzo was enthusiastic about the experience. It was an absolutely wonderful adventure. A life-changing week,” wrote Steve. “The support team was great, and made the event so much more enjoyable. The food, rest stops, lunches and dinners were great fun and well stocked. Bravo to all of you on the CASA team.”

(Left: Park-2-Park Montana 2010 group with the CASA truck at the Dupuyer Community Center. Photo courtesy of Ellen Bush, CASA Montana.) Ride organizer Joe Bryce has announced Sept. 12 -16, 2011 as the scheduled ride dates for next year with a route along highway 89 from St. Mary’s KOA at Glacier Park to Gardiner in Yellowstone Park. The route takes cyclists along the eastern side of Glacier National Park through spectacular scenery along the Rocky Mountain front US 89 through Dupuyer, Choteau, Great Falls, White Sulphur Springs and Livingston before concluding at Yellowstone National Park. Save the date and keep informed along the way at park2parkmontana.org .


Photo taken approximately one mile from the finish. BicyclingHub.com owner Douglas Duguay reminisces, "It felt great riding in a giant pack of riders about to complete over 400 miles for the week."

We are on a mission to spread meaningful content and give you awesome deals on cycling clothing. Like us on Facebook and see for yourself.