There are great things around the corner from Terry. We’re expanding our line of accessories – both for you and for your bike. Starting in 2023 we’re gearing up to be a one-stop-shop for all of your cycling needs.
We’re always looking for the latest and greatest products for women, but we’d like to hear from YOU. What are you looking for? What do you have a hard time finding? What matters the most–ease of use or getting a deal? Our buyers want to know how we can help you with your cycling adventures. Leave your comments below or shoot us an email: customerservice@terrybicycles.com
Here’s a glimpse of what to look for from Terry this Fall…
Dream from TIEM :: new cycling shoes for women who want athletic performance without sacrificing style.
SPD-compatible Via Cycling Shoe
On Bike Necessities :: Niterider Light Sets for lighting your way safely; easy to use Cateye Quik Cyclocomputers.
SKS Xtra-Dry Fenders :: add a tail to keep you dry and mud-free on those ugly wheel spray days.
News in helmets: from the innovators at Poc and Abus.
If you’ve ever called or emailed us then you’ll have come through to the cycling mavens on our Customer Service Team. As the main point of contact for our customers, Customer Service is at the heart of our mission: to get more women riding bicycles – comfortably, safely and beautifully. The goal of our Customer Service team is to be a resource of information, provide solutions, and help identify the best products to meet the needs of our customers. It is our pleasure to introduce you to the voices that make up this amazing team. With each Newsletter, we will showcase a different member of the Customer Service squad, starting with world wanderer and folding-bike-fanatic, Annie.
Meet Annie
Annie is an avid bike commuter and veteran bike tourist. You’ll find her most evenings cruising Burlington’s Greenway path or riding local forest trails. She loves challenges: in 2020 Annie rode throughout the winter, using studded tires; in 2021 she experimented with how to outfit a folding bike with camping gear; for 2022, she explored Cape Cod with family, and always has more travel/cycling plans in the works.
The key to riding throughout winter: LAYERS
She enjoys creative projects such as sewing (bicycle stem bags, panniers, and a DIY poncho) and crafting family newsletters. She stays busy updating her personalized spreadsheet to track her cycling mileage and applying her green thumb to growing a container garden.
In the garage, Annie’s current loves are a Trek hardtail, a Dahon folding bike, and a 1980s Peugeot step through mountain bike. She is excited about selecting components for her newest addition, a Beaujolais-colored Bassi Rachel frame. She’s hopeful the bike will be complete in time for leaf peeping rides through Vermont’s autumn colors.
In addition to her role as a Terry Customer Service Representative, Annie thrives on improving work efficiencies, offering personal feedback on new products, and writing an occasional blog post. She is also on a mission to evaluate saddles and bike shorts to match them with their ideal rider.
Have a question about our products or an order? Our customer service team is happy to help. You can call us at 800-289-8379 (toll free) or 802-861-7610 (long distance/international) where our team is available 10AM-5PM EST. We can be reached via email at: CustomerService@TerryBicycles.com
After seeing a recent campaign Terry ran featuring teams of riders in matching jerseys, Terry superfan Marilyn, reached out with just one question: Who Loves Terry Tops More?
The answer is clear: The Crown Colony 20+ Mile Riders, riding out and cutting up in Ft. Meyers, Florida. Last they counted, each of the Crown Colony’s nine members owns 14 tops and a myriad of Terry shorts and capris. Their colorful wardrobe and passion for riding has garnered them many compliments out on the trails. A passerby even expressed admiration by referring to them as a “beauty pageant on wheels.”
Composed of septuagenarian trendsetters, the Crown Colony says cycling 40-60 miles a week keeps them young. Marilyn proudly states “We may not be the fastest but we know we are the most fashionable!” Tune in as we chat with the Crown Colony matriarch herself.
What inspired your group to take up cycling? We all rode bikes as kids, coming back to it in retirement has been joyous. While our ages range from 70–76, it keeps us physically and mentally engaged as well as fit and young at heart.
What is the best thing about riding in a group? We enjoy the camaraderie and love the feeling of shared accomplishment. We find that we push each other to keep to our scheduled Monday and Friday rides, and often throw in a Wednesday too. Oh yeah, also the more we bike the more we feel we can eat and drink.
Do you have a favorite route in Ft. Meyers? Wind direction determines our route. Florida is dead flat but the wind makes up for that. We always want a tailwind on the way home. We have five or six routes that correspond with wind direction. The night before a ride we check wind direction and text which route and more importantly which of our many Terry tops to wear. We now have so many that sometimes we have to share a picture so we all get the right one.
The Crown Colony 20+ Mile Riders are Marilyn, Sharon, Catherine, Linda S., Linda E, Mary, Joyce, Maria and Nora.
Does your group have any big ride plans outside of Ft Myers? We have “Snow Birds” and “All Timers” in the group. (We call those of us who live in Florida year-round “All Timers”). During the summer we used to all meet up in Minneapolis for a week of riding. We have not done that since COVID. Hopefully we can get back to that again.
Marilyn herself is on extended summer adventure from June—September traveling and biking throughout NC, VA, Washington DC, NYC, PA and WV. Last we checked in, she was heading from Washington D.C. and is riding onto to NYC.
Any advice for someone interested in joining a group ride? We are lucky to have formed such a strong bond. We call ourselves the Crown Colony 20+ Milers because we live in a beautiful golf community called Crown Colony. Our rides are a minimum of 20 miles and many times more. We decided to limit the active riding group to approximately seven at a time, as we feel it is a safe number to traverse the road and trail conditions in Ft Myers. It is also a manageable number for travel planning. We found it is optimal to have riders with similar skill and endurance levels.
What made you choose Terry as your fashion hub? Ahhhh, we love everything about Terry tops and shorts. The shorts look good, typically have ample pockets, and fit well. The Soleil Tops feel silky and are lightweight while providing excellent sun protection. We love having both short and long sleeve selections. The tops are regularly given as birthday gifts and we have now started a tradition of gifting matching socks for Christmas. Most of all we love the designs! We love riding as the biking fashionistas and having so many people comment on how great we look.
If you want your crew to be as gracefully geared up as the crown colony, now is your big chance. Throughout July 2022 you can save 30% with the purchase of two or more qualifying jerseys. Simply use code: EVENT30 at checkout to save on your whole team’s haul.
Contributed by Dave Buckley of Valley Bike and Ski Werks.
Valley Bike and Ski Werks, nestled in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts among colleges such as Smith College, Mount Holyoke, UMass Amherst, and Hampshire College, is a full-service bike and ski shop. For over twelve years, VBSW has gained the reputation that “We ride and ski what we sell”. The goal is to provide our customers with first-hand knowledge of the gear and equipment we carry.
VBSW has a long-standing partnership with Terry, providing our female customer base with a solid product that performs and looks great. Meghan Keefe, a loyal VBSW customer and avid cyclist, first sought out the Terry gear line for the comfortable bike liners. She adds that “The fresh designs with a feminine touch are an added bonus to the comfort.”
VBSW prides itself on approaching all customers with the intention to better understand their specific needs and cycling goals. The growth of the shop has allowed us to meet the objectives of our wide customer base, from the competitive rider to the family on the bike path.
VBSW offers weekly “no drop” group rides for men and women of all ability levels. As well as being an active member of the Northampton Cycling Club (NCC). VBSW also sponsors notable bike events in the region, such as the D2R2 gravel race supporting the Franklin Land Trust.
For more information on upcoming events, shop services, products and gear visit the Valley Bike and Ski Werks website at valleybikeandskiwerks.com, or in person at 173 Russell St., Hadley MA 01035.
Women’s cycling gear has come a long way from the shrink it and pink it limitations of the past. Yet it can still be difficult to find the right fit if you are above or below average height (5’4″ according to the CDC 2018 report on averages). That’s where Terry can come to the rescue. With a variety of options available to tackle all types of riding, we’ve taken a closer look at the best apparel that addresses the distinctions of being Petite or Tall. Tune in as Team Terry Bike Mavens, Annie from Customer Care and Cam from Marketing, chat about their top picks for each category.
Tall Order To FillFor Annie
Being tall has its challenges when it comes to bike wear, requiring a slightly longer torso length in tops, and bottoms with adequate inseam to keep the chill off ankles. I’ve discovered several Terry pieces that aid in a long-legged gal’s commuting and bike touring comfort. For reference, I’m 5’7” with a 31” inseam.
Annie kicked off June riding in Cape Cod
All NaturalFeel
I prefer the natural fiber feel and non-clingy drape of the Wayfarer Short Sleeve Top. The 10” zipper allows ventilation – perfect for those sweaty rides or for anyone seeking a non-restrictive neckline. While I’d prefer a long sleeve option in this lovely fabric, I use a Bolero for additional warmth and/or sun protection. This versatile accessory also saves on packing weight for multi-day rides.
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Wayfarer Short Sleeve Jersey and Wayfarer Capri in Azurite
Good For A Spin
The Spinnaker Bike Capri was my first introduction to capri/knicker length bike wear. I grab the 19+” length Spinnaker for short adventures or pair it with a skirt for jaunts to the grocery store. I especially like the stylish V-shaped, loose-fitting hemline that adds flair. This versatile, minimally padded bottom, is one I gravitate to time and time again.
Spinnaker Bike Capri and Studio Top
For a knicker that’s easy on the wallet, I’m enjoying the higher waistline and 20” inseam of the Actif Knicker. The Actif Knicker is perfect for commuter distances. For longer days in the saddle, the Wayfarer Capri’s svelte matte fabric with compression, and breathable Flex Air chamois, can’t be beat. It’s the ultimate in support and sublime comfort. I especially love the Azurite blue color that I can wear with almost any top.
Actif Knicker and Sunblocker Jersey
Through The Seasons
I have two pairs of the Coolweather Tight Tall. I ride year-round in Vermont and the sculpted waistline, Flex chamois, and non-constricting fabric is wonderful for temperatures from 40-60F. For more extreme weather, I’d love to see a future version of the Winter Tight available in a longer inseam.
Soleil Flow Long Sleeve Top and Bike Bermuda Short
I’ve tried numerous pairs of shorts for summer riding, but I am enamored with a couple of favorites. For light compression I prefer the cozy Bike Bermuda. The Bike Bermuda is the famed Breakaway’s big sister; it has a higher waistline and longer leg length, but still offers the same great soft-feeling fabric. The Bella Bike Short is ideal for hot summer rides (pink stitching for the win!) and with an 8.5” inseam pairs well with a Mixie Skirt or Metro Skort when I’m meeting the girls for a beer. This summer, I’m ready to dive into mountain bike wear and try the Vista Bike Short with 10” inseam and wide and stretchy waistband.
Bella Short and Soleil Sleeveless Jersey
More Options For Tall Riders
Power Short and Soleil Long Sleeve Top
Touring Short Long – Light compression, thickest Flex Air Tour chamois, 10” inseam, quickest drying and best wicking fabric.
Wayfarer Short – Moderate compression, 2 side pockets, 11” inseam, Flex Air chamois for all-day comfort.
Hi Rise Holster Short – Highest rise short available with average (8.5”) inseam, 2 side pockets, and Flex Air chamois for all-day comfort.
Easy Rider Short – Great for someone new to cycling shorts – easy-going Fleet Air chamois, simple styling, and 9.5” inseam.
Euro Short and Power Short – where high compression meets all-day comfort in a 9″ inseam.
The Short StackFrom Cam
As a shorter gal (standing tall at 5’2) I’ve had a tough time finding the right fit and learned to anticipate disappointment. Then, I found Terry. Gone are the jerseys that brushed my kneecaps, with comically long sleeves, loose wrists and shoulders. I’ve bid adieu to the bottoms that pulled my chamois and bagged in all the wrong places. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Terry pieces so you too can surpass the “you must be this tall to ride” line.
Cam ready to ride the Burlington Greenway in the Cyclotank and Metro 7 Inch Short
7 Inch Wonders Of The World
I love the sleek, high compression, fabric of the Chill 7. It makes me feel like Wonder Woman and ride like her too! The simple construction, compression support, and 7″ inseam create a fit that is perfect for my frame. I’ve learned the hard way that poorly fitting shorts can ruin even the shortest of rides. When there is no bunching or chafing to worry about; I can ride in full confidence. At the height of summer, you’ll find me shortening my hem and switching to the Chill 5.
Chill 7 Short and Soleil Flow Short Sleeve Top
When Terry first introduced the Wayfarer Short, I loved everything about it…except the length. I am now convinced Terry created the Wayfarer 7 just for me! Four inches shorter than the original, this 7″ matte powerhouse feels luxurious and the deep stretchy pockets are perfect for carrying my essentials (SPF balm, phone/wallet combo, and gummy bears). The high-but-not-too-high waist is securing and provides just the right level of compression to keep my core in the zone on long rides. For a baggier option, you’ll find me in another fan-favorite that’s gone short this summer: The Metro 7 Inch Short. The Metro 7 is one of the most versatile items in my wardrobe as it is composed of a separate short and liner. It’s great for any activity that gets me outside, whether it be hiking, biking, camping, or a mix of all three.
Wayfarer 7 Short and Soleil Racer Tank
Got You Covered
For below-the-knee coverage, I always reach for the classic Knicker. While this is one of Terry’s shortest pedal pushers (18” inseam) —it cuts no corners. With the most densely padded Flex Air Tour chamois, I can ride for a full day and hop back in the saddle the next. The moisture wicking fabric performs exceptionally on hot trail rides and the length protects my knees from sun, wind, shrubs, and the occasional wipeout.
Bike Knicker and Strada Jersey
The Sunblocker Jersey is a permanent staple in my pack. It has a slightly shorter front length compared to other Terry jerseys and is the ideal layering piece. This jersey is lightweight and keeps you cool with superior ventilation while providing full coverage UPF 50+ sun protection. When the day grows hotter than I can stand, it easily folds up and I ride on in the Soleil Racer Tank. In the colder months, I ride with a thermal underneath and take it fat biking or to hit the ski slopes.
In The Studio
I am mostly an outdoorswoman, but I don’t shy away completely from the studio. Every time I wear the Cyclotank to spin, a classmate will ask: “WHERE DID YOU GET THAT TANK?!” Compliments of Terry, I love the semi-fitted silhouette and super fun prints! The drape is not only flattering, it also makes the Cyclotank casual enough to bop around a bit after riding. Best of all, the hem doesn’t fall to my knees.
Cyclotank and Indie Skort
Beautifully Bold
I am drawn to the brightest patterns and usually find them in full color on a Sun Goddess Jersey. This is another top with a slightly shorter front length and sporty feel. I love the racerback that shows off my shoulders and the princess seaming creates a very flattering fit. With three rear pockets, I have more room to spread out my essentials (more pockets = more gummy bears).
Sun Goddess Jersey and Rebel Short
Other Favorites From This Shortie:
Coolweather Tight/Petite – 28″ inseam, ideal for temps 40-60F, minimally compressive full-coverage tight, Flex chamois, and soft waistband.
Touring Short/Short – Quick dry fabric with light compression, thickest Flex Air chamois, 5” inseam, and all-day comfort fit.
Mixie Ultra – A sweet cover-up in the perfect length with snap closures! Worn just as often by me on the bike as on the beach.
Racer Tank – Masterly designed for the hottest conditions, indoors and out. Lightweight, moisture wicking and UPF 50+ sun protective with racer back for ease of movement. Athletic-fit prevents bagging.
Over the course of the last decade, the technologies involved in keeping your shorts from riding up have evolved into way more comfortable options. Due to the different fabrics and panel construction we use for different types of shorts, we offer a wide variety that don’t necessarily make decision-making easy. This article will highlight the myriad options, why you might prefer one versus another and which shorts use them.
Fully Integrated Gripper
What it is: Silicone print applied directly to the bottom 2” of the short fabric, eliminating the need for a separate leg band.
Pros: Stays in place without pressure against thigh; no separate leg band (no sausage effect), no stitching, seamlessly smooth fit against leg.
Cons: Costly to apply and limited to certain fabrics. Uses silicone (an occasional irritant to sensitive skin).
What it is: A classic for bike shorts and one we’ve used with many of our bottoms for many years. Elastic with rubber threads woven into the face to provide a gentle grip. This style of grip is sewn on the inside hem of the short.
Pros: Remains comfortable against the skin during long rides and multi-day tours. Stays firmly in place and won’t ride up while pedaling. Durable construction withstands heavy use. No silicone used.
Cons: Is a narrower gripper application so it can cinch thigh depending on where it falls on the leg. Requires stitching.
Shorts that use this gripper: Touring Shorts in all lengths.
Woven Gripper shown on Touring Short/Regular
Elastic with Silicone Grip Strip
What it is: Elastic band with silicone grip strip sewn on the inside hem of the short.
Pros: Offers more grip than the woven elastic grippers so it will stay firmly in place while pedaling. Durable construction will withstand heavy use.
Cons: Uses silicone. Is a narrower gripper application so it can cinch thigh depending on where it falls on the leg. Requires stitching.
Shorts that use this gripper: Bella Shorts in all lengths.
Elastic With Silicone Grip Strip shown on Bella Short LTD
Bonded/Partial Bonded Gripper
What it is: A strategic mash-up of two different finishes. The inner leg panels are folded back and bonded for a stitch-less, gripper-less, chafe-free finish. The outer leg panels feature a separate self-fabric fold over band with a silicone chain grip printed onto the interior edge of the fabric.
Pros: Provides a gentle grip; no need for restrictive elastics or extra stitching. Inner leg is free from stitching for longer distances and extended use.
Cons: Outer leg band requires seaming. Uses silicone.
Seeking a short that is silicone free? Utilize the Leg Band Filter on our website to customize and curate your options.
Self-Fabric Fold-Over Hem
What it is: A simple, comfort-focused approach consisting of a folded-over band of fabric sewn onto the short. The double layer of fabric increases compression to keep things in place without the use of a gripper. ‘Self-Fabric’ means the leg band utilizes the same fabric as the rest of the short.
Pros: Does not use grippers or elastics that could cause discomfort.
Cons: Can move around more compared to shorts that have grippers. Requires stitching to attach leg band to short.
Self-Fabric Fold Over Hem shown on Breakaway Short LTD
Zig Zag Fold-Over Hem
What it is: No separate leg band. The bottom edge of the short is folded under and finished with a zig-zag stitch. This seaming method has just the right amount of stretch to avoid binding/cinching the thigh. Similar to the ‘Self-Fabric Fold-over Band’, this construction results in 2 layers of fabric, increasing the compression of the leg band to keep it in place.
Pros: Uses minimal stitching, reducing the potential for discomfort. No gripper used and therefore minimal opportunity for binding/sausage effect against the thigh.
Cons: Has the potential to move around while pedaling. Does use minimal stitching, potentially reducing durability.
What it is: The minimalist approach designed to provide complete leg band freedom. The legs are clean cut—no hem stitching, no separate leg band, no silicone, no grip.
Pros: Forgiving fit. Completely free of restriction, grippers, and stitching that could lead to irritation.
Cons: Legs will shift a little while pedaling due to the lack of gripper. Can only be used with certain fabric type and inseam length.
More options than ever to ride looser, ride more comfortably and still be able to put in a full day in the saddle. Every season we make it our goal to find the newest alternatives, the best fits and the most versatile new baggy shorts designed to ride. Some are 2-piece options with separate liner and others are shells only so you can pair them up with your favorite or ride commando. This year, we even developed a few new options of our own.
Brand New
Krimson Klover entered the bike fray for the very first time this year and the Rory 5 (below) is one of the surprises of the season. Technically turned out to attack the trails, we’re particularly fond of the high, shaped rear waist that provides ideal coverage on the bike.
Krimson Rory 5
Everybody’s Favorite
Zoic’s Navaeh has earned a reputation as the most-loved trail shorts for women. There’s no better value; the fit is super adjustable, the choices wide ranging.
Navaeh 11 NoveltyNavaeh 7 Novelty
Navaeh Bliss shown below makes adjustability a moot point with a wide stretch band that easily pulls on. We’re selling tons of these in sizes from XS to 3X. Beautifully streamlined, with integrated zip pockets and available in prints or solid.
Navaeh Bliss with wide, stretch waist
Bike Shorts with Heart
Sophisticated fabrics and an attention to detail that comes from years in the European fashion industry, Maloja’s home base is at the foot of the Alps where they develop and test ride everything they create. These are some of the most beautifully made bike bottoms available and appropriate for anything from enduro to gravel.
Maloja’s Fingerkraut excels at EnduroMaloja Anemona – great for on & off bike
Over and Under
Seriously engineered by GORE for extreme conditions, use over tights or knickers in the wet, on trail or gravel, with or without liner.
Weather and abrasion-resistant Storm Short
Soft yet rugged, the Explore Shorts have spray protection and a more tailored cut than typical baggies provide. The ideal combination of protection, style and versatility for gravel riding, bikepacking and adventure.
Explore gets our vote for best gravel option
Terry Gets Loose
Fit doesn’t get any better than our newest, very inviting Vista trail short. It has pull-on styling with a wide stretch waistband that easily accommodates a wide variety of body types. It also comes with Terry’s new Cyclo Brief 2.0, a minimalist liner outfitted with a reticulated foam chamois.
NEW Vista comes with svelte Cyclo Brief
We’ve expanded our Metro series, too, this year, with a new below the knee Metro BTK. It’s a great option for more coverage and offers all the pocket utility of the Metro Shorts and Skorts.
Movement is romantic. Dancing the night away, long strolls on the beach, rides through the countryside…When was the last time you heard about someone falling in love during traffic?
It’s no surprise that bikes easily bring together characters on wheels. Cycling makes a beautiful backdrop for a love story. You have meet-cute situations, adventure, and the general sense of joy and wonder a ride can bring.
The Beginning Of A Beautiful Journey
Alex and Cam ready to test ride Terry’s Solmates collection
When I met my husband-to-be Alex, at a theme party, he instantly recognized me by my bike. “You’re the gal with the hot pink helmet and white Giant!” he proclaimed over the soaring sound of disco music being spun on vinyl. My daily commute included dashing by his job and he started to look out for my sweet ride. Five years later, we are mapping the 42 mile “commute” from our apartment to the site of our wedding.
That isn’t to say that the road has always been smooth. While cycling can strengthen your relationship, it can also be a source of tension.
The First Roadblock
When we started riding together, I was the stronger cyclist. However, as time went on Alex began to outpace me. I felt like Alice sprinting after the white rabbit and our rides became less enjoyable. On one less than idyllic trip, my frustration got the best of me and I simply left the ride; abandoning Alex on the trail.
How did we overcome this obvious roadblock? Clear communication over ice cream.
When you’re the “faster” rider in the couple, it can be easy to forget how you felt at different fitness levels. When all the pressure falls on the “slower” rider, it’s bound to burst. We both checked our egos and established routes and a pace that worked for us as a duo. When you understand each other’s goals, you not only have mutual support, but respect as well. I now lead most of our rides and am a stronger cyclist than ever. Alex has helped me push myself while ensuring I am not over-extended and I’ve taught him technical skills and how to slow down and smell the roses. On the days where one of us may desire a heartier ride, we’ll take separate routes and meet up at the end to share a good brew or snack.
David and Annie cruising through the greenway
Learning From The Best
I joined fellow cycling “Solmates” and Terry’s Director of Sales, David, and his adventure paramour, Annie, to learn how they’ve mastered the art of riding together.
David and Annie met on the ski slopes but take their passion for the outdoors (and each other) to gravel grinds across Vermont and beyond. While you may think of skiing and cycling as solitary sports, they make a phenomenal team.
Know Your Strengths
“We both have strengths in each sport – Annie is definitely stronger climbing and I am [stronger] down more on the rolling hills and flats but we work together as a team to have fun” says David.
Annie is the route planner extraordinaire, but that doesn’t stop her from taking a spontaneous trail seemingly spurred out of nowhere. David rides prepared for her hairpin turns and is the mechanical mind of the couple.
Smiles from the top of Mt. Agamenticus! Annie is sporting our Soleil SS Flow Top
Get Out Of Town
Living in Charlotte, VT there’s no lack of amazing gravel riding locally, but to get out of town some of their favorite routes are the Natural Turnpike and Snake Mountain around Middlebury, VT. “We’re not riders who take the same route twice, you won’t catch us riding circles” says Annie. Keeping things fresh, keeps things FUN. Last summer they headed to Maine in search of gravel roads, sandy beaches, and lobster. They were met with a bounty of all three, exploring around Mount Agamenticus and Wells Beach. Sharing new experiences is a great way to carve out bonding time and step back from routine.
It’s A Date, Not A Race
When reflecting on past races, Annie mentions “We do a lot of group rides with friends. We used to do more races, but I nixed that program — I am too competitive and he would laugh at me. I was out to WIN” while David notes he is most competitive with himself. Lately, they’ve swapped racing for fundraising, most recently participating in the 2022 Richard’s Ride. Uniting behind a good cause and training for the same event keeps them motivated and excited. They’re able to cheer each other on while experiencing the sheer enjoyment of riding together.
Alex and Cam goofing off while Annie and David bike the boardwalk
When you’re moving in the same direction you build trust and create a connection that goes beyond the time spent in the saddle. Now with that: go out, ride, and smooch at stop lights.
After a pandemic hiatus, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont & Terry Bicycles Wellness Revolution is back. Launched in 2014, the program is designed to get more women riding bikes, safely and comfortably, and promotes healthier lifestyles over the course of a 4-6 week training program.
Beyond great exercise and camaraderie, the Wellness Revolution includes sessions on bike maintenance, mindfulness, urban riding techniques, cross training and more. The effect of having a supportive group all wanting to thrive via cycling has had a tremendous impact on all of us at Terry and Blue Cross, and helps shape our understanding of the barriers to getting more women riding.
“Before taking part in the Wellness Revolution, I wasn’t comfortable riding my bike in traffic and I struggled with hills,” says Becky Campbell, a Wellness Revolution alumnus. “Over the course of the program, I built confidence so that I’m not afraid to take my bike onto a busy road, and I have a much better understanding of how to tackle those hills!”
Wellness Grad Rides on to National Competition
“Last summer, the opportunity to join a women-specific cycling workshop in Rutland popped up on my Facebook feed. Intrigued to meet other women cyclists, I immediately signed up. The overall experience was beyond my expectations because the classes gave the women an opportunity to learn about cycling and develop a positive and inclusive experience. I come from an experienced cycling background; however, the sessions offered a variety of information that women of all abilities could benefit; whether it be changing a flat tire, fitting a helmet, and even learning to ride an E-Bike. I remember with a big smile the look of shock on some of the women’s faces when they learned that underwear is not worn under bike shorts! At the end of the event, the Wellness Revolution women rode with a sense of confidence and joy.
“On a personal note, the cycling group propelled me into going beyond my comfort level in road cycling. One of the women in the group suggested I cycle in the Vermont Senior Games Championship 40K Road Race that was held last September. I spent a few weeks training for the event, and ultimately finished 2nd place in my age category! Wow! This event automatically qualified me to compete in the 2022 National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale, Florida being held at the end of this May. Over the winter, I cycled many miles on a Tacx bike trainer in combination with daily strength training for the event. In addition, I communicated via email other Vermont participants to discuss training methods, diet, and motivation.
“I look forward meeting and riding with the Vermont cyclists in person at the National Senior Games as well as giving 110% of my cycling ability as I represent the State of Vermont! Thank you, Terry Bikes, for opening the door to the world of cycling for Rutland area women.“
– Kate Herbert
The Duo Behind the Revolution: Lisa & Megan
“We encourage women across the spectrum of cycling comfort levels to join us. Whether you are just starting out or are looking to get exercise in a supported way, this free program advances women’s cycling abilities, builds confidence, and provides an opportunity to connect in a fun, supportive environment.”
-Megan Peek, Community Relations and Health Education Manager at Blue Cross
“The Wellness Revolution program reminds me of all the things cycling has done for me. It provides the grit and determination to try new things, the confidence in knowing you’re stronger than you think, and develops new friendships that can last a lifetime. My eight-year affiliation with the Wellness Revolution, BCBS of Vermont and Megan Peek is great example of this.”
–Lisa Wilkes, Customer Service, Ambassador, Sponsorship and Events Manager at Terry
If you’re in our neck of the woods (Vermont) and are ready to join the revolution the next time around, please connect with us. It’s never too late to set a new goal for yourself or help someone else change her life through cycling.
Gear West Brings Women Cyclists to the Forefront in the Midwest.
Aerial view of the Gear West campus.
From modest beginnings, Gear West has grown into the country’s largest ski retailer, located in the western suburbs of Minneapolis, MN. With roots in triathlon as well as nordic competition, the store’s offerings for cyclists and runners keep pace through the warmer seasons of the year.
GW has a long history with Terry, and it’s a partnership that brings some great benefits to the store’s female cycling customers.
Shopping the racks of Terry cycling gear at Gear West.
As a source of clothing, equipment, events and advice, Gear West is an important resource for cycling women in the region. Since the company was co-founded and grew under the stewardship of a woman, it makes sense that female cyclists have become an important focus for the store. In addition, many women work at the store and ride out of Gear West.
Owner, Jan Guenther, explains the store’s approach to serving female customers:
Jan Guenther, Owner, Gear West
“GW attempts to address the varying needs of every woman who calls or enters the bike store. This is not a new idea. Respect and knowledge regarding women’s specific needs is built into the DNA of Gear West. We inquire about their cycling goals, what excites them about the sport, how and where they envision themselves cycling, and then we offer suggestions for best choices in clothing, equipment and bike fit.”
Jan points out that women desire a line of clothing and accessories that meets their fit and design needs. “Terry has been in the industry for a long time and continues to offers a feminine touch to their ever up-dated line up of functional clothing and saddles. Terry makes sure their clothing offering fits all the sizes and shapes of women who love to cycle, and offers the cheerful and functional clothing to add to women’s sense of style and adventure.”
Gear West and the Minneapolis area offer all cyclists abundant opportunities to bike. Triathlons, local touring bike clubs, park trails, mountain bike adventures, gravel explorations – all are available to interested cyclists.
If you ride in the Minneapolis area make sure to check out Gear West’s extensive array of equipment, clothing and gear, also available on their comprehensive website. You will find a friendly welcome, great advice and top notch service at the store.
Visit Gear West at 1786 W Wayzata Blvd, Long Lake, MN 55356
