You know when you finally find the perfect fitting bike shorts and want to shout from the rooftops? Well, hear me roar for the simply styled Breakaway Hi-Rise. Being on the tall side, the regular Breakaway Bike Short felt uncomfortably low on my waist, yet I fell in love with the Bike Bermuda which shares a lot of the same features as the Breakaway with a key difference: a higher rise waistband. As a perfect complement, the Breakaway Hi-Rise Short, with slightly more compressive fabric and a higher, wider waistband that extends torso coverage a much-needed 2 inches, hits the sweet spot for me. The waistband stays put and pulls-on easily; the leg bands are soft; and it’s offered in my preferred 8.5 inch inseam. The Breakaway Hi-Rise is my new favorite short!
Butterfly Century Saddle Goes Offroad & Feels GREAT.
As I age, ergonomic handlebars and a perfect saddle are key to comfort—not an easy task when you own multiple bikes! I’ve been a longtime fan of using the Butterfly Ti Gel + Saddle on my mountain bike but recently swapped it out to try the Butterfly Century.
Saddle nuances make all the difference and I understand why Terry offers numerous options within the Butterfly Saddle Family. Saddles with generous cut-outs and titanium rails tend to fit me the best because they are the most adjustable. The adjustability allows me to achieve correct positioning for all-day riding comfort and power output. While the Ti Gel model worked on this particular bicycle, the opening on the Century feels wider to me because the relief channel’s silhouette is more round and thus fits my unique contours best. Long live the Butterfly Century!
Hasta La Vista — A Favorite Top On Wardrobe Repeat.
With its midweight fabric and tummy-concealing style, I find the Vista MTB Top to be a pleasing, all-around outdoor top. It’s my go-to shirt on either side of sticky summer weather. The Vista Top is perfect for bike rides or paired with a skort or shorts for roaming around town. The elbow-length sleeves, curved hemline, flattering fit, and fun prints keep me coming back!
Contributed by author and Terry Ambassador, Haven Lindsey.
Mount Everest. The world’s highest mountain. The Himalayas’ ultimate jewel that stands at more than 29,000 feet. There are technically more difficult climbs than Everest, but she attracts people from all over the globe with her lure of giving hikers the opportunity to stand on top of the world.
Having the financial resources to make the attempt to summit Everest is just one part of the challenge. People prepare for months and years, they sacrifice family time, and they leave jobs in order to train for the privilege of literally putting their lives on the line for what they have deemed to be their ultimate challenge. For these folks, Mt. Everest is indeed their “Everest.”
The majority of us will never see Mt. Everest, nor attempt to summit the world’s highest mountain. And yet, we all have an Everest in our lives. You do not have to scale Mt. Everest to, in fact, summit your own version.
If you aren’t in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?
T.S. Eliot
We know growth happens outside our comfort zone. We understand that unless we push ourselves, we won’t really know how tall we are. What can we handle? Where do we break? When do we tap into a power reserve we didn’t realize we had?
As cyclists and athletes, we can relate to putting our bodies and minds on the line—regardless of what that line is. For some, it’s buying a bike as an adult and joining a weekly group ride. For others, it’s competing in races. As we get closer to our line we grow more comfortable venturing further and farther from the ease of our comfort zones. We’re still allowed to feel nervous or afraid and sometimes may question ourselves, but as we begin to test our limits, we begin to feed on the growth that happens—the type of growth that can’t be shrunk. For example, when you ride your bike 50 miles for the first time you will forever know that you can ride 50 miles—you can’t undo that knowledge. Get caught (like I once did) 20 miles from home in a downpour and watch how you change your mindset, how you pivot your focus, and how you make it home soaked to the bone, having successfully navigated slippery pavement and traffic situations. Those experiences introduce us to a type of growth that stays with us, permanently.
Not quite Everest: Terry’s Creative Director, Paula, treading the roads of Yellowstone two weeks before the route opened to cars for the season.
Learning where that growth will stem from isn’t always clean, clear, and easy. It’s one thing to find the thing you like to do and thrive within a certain level of challenges, but it’s an altogether different thing to identify your Everest. It can be difficult to set aside the ego and identify the thing that scares us, the thing that intimidates us, the thing that we tell ourselves we can’t do (or can we?). We all have our Everest residing within us—I believe we have many of them. Some of us climb our Everest, some of us won’t consider it, and some will get stuck along the way and turn back— but she’s always there on the horizon. Your Everest isn’t going away without being summited.
I recently climbed my Everest. My version wasn’t a mountain, it didn’t even take place on my bike, but it did challenge me in a way I’ve never experienced. It required me to push myself so far that I couldn’t spot my comfort zone in my rearview mirror. I felt afraid, emotional, and exhausted yet I knew I had named my Everest and I was going to claim her. I allowed myself to feel every feeling and then I did it anyway. Months later, I’m still learning from that proverbial summit. And just like the mountain climbers who experience a range of ripple effects after summitting Everest, I am continuing to grow after the experience.
Haven riding what she humbly calls the “hills” of New Mexico. They look like mountains to us!
Embracing and overcoming a challenge off the bike can have a positive impact on the bike and vice versa. My Everest was not the Everest but it was every bit as steep. And, just like many mountain climbers who can’t quite articulate why they want to climb the world’s highest mountain, I wasn’t sure why I was driven to climb my version. Just because we identify our Everest, doesn’t necessarily mean we can answer the inevitable, why’s and that is okay. I trusted that I needed to do something without knowing why and like many mountaineers, I experienced the confusion and judgment of people who couldn’t relate. My Everest showed me the strength I hold, that otherwise, I would have never known.
We all have an Everest and climbing yours isn’t guaranteed to be easy, in fact, it may be one of the hardest things you ever do. You may not understand why your particular Everest is what it is but the lessons will come in time. They come from embracing the challenges, they come from the growth, they come from the knowledge that you heard your mountain calling you and you answered.
No one can climb your Everest for you, but it is standing there waiting for you. What’s your Everest?
About Haven:
Haven Lindsey is a freelance writer and avid cyclist in Taos, New Mexico, where she lives with her dog, Gracie, and cats Pine Cone and Banjo. Haven is both a road cyclist and mountain biker but notes that road cycling is her first love. When she first saw cyclists riding up a mountain in Switzerland, she knew at that moment that she needed to take part in the action and from that day forth became a cyclist. In fact, she once broke her foot playing tennis and specifically had her surgeon fit her cycling shoe to her boot so she could continue doing what she loved while she recovered.
Haven began contributing to the Sidesaddle Blog after sharing her powerful poem ‘A Mourning Ride‘ with the Terry Team. Her writing beautifully expresses the tremendous impact cycling can have on one’s life and she has since become one of Terry’s most prominent ambassadors. Haven has said that even if she wasn’t a writer by trade, she would still write for fun because she enjoys the process of taking a blank slate and bringing it to life with words that help to inform, educate, and perhaps make you feel something along the way.
Haven’s second children’s book is due to be published in early 2024 by Brandylane Publishing and a book/memoir titled ‘What’s Your Everest? ‘ is in the writing stages. To keep up with Haven Lindsey and read more of her work, please visit her website: 4havensake.com
One of the joys of a small business is that there are family members, neighbors and friends that pitch in and offer support in ways that enrich all of those involved. Throughout our nearly 40 years, everybody at Terry has experienced their own version of that. My mother, Helen, worked closely with me and the merchandising team for the past 15 years on everything related to Terry. She passed away in June, sadly before the start of the Tour de France in the Basque country, where both her parents emigrated from.
Her father died when she was 2 weeks old, leaving her non-English speaking mother to raise 7 children in northeastern Montana. There were many things she learned to do out of survival but riding a bicycle wasn’t one of them. Nonetheless, her no nonsense approach to life, a keen eye for what looks good on body, her wicked financial common sense and her unrelenting desire to go to work each day into her mid 80’s, made her invaluable.
Helen loved every minute of her involvement with Terry, kept every catalog, helped organize every photo shoot, took personally every customer review, and counted every sale of every product. I’ll be forever grateful to my coworkers, photo crew, sales reps and all of you who made this family business such a uniquely wonderful ride into the sunset of her life.
Just when you thought you were fully stocked…we snuck one more week’s worth of can’t-say-no deals on the prints du jour, cycling bottoms at under $100, and lightweight adventure dresses to perk up your travel wardrobe. It’s the final day, and a triumph in every way. SHOP IT ALL >
Come shop our annual cycling clearout sale in Burlington, Vermont.
Mark your calendars—our Summer tradition here at Terry is just around the corner!
If you’re around the great Green Mountain state, swing by the Terry warehouse for our only in-person sales extravaganza, the Terry Tent Sale. Come join us for huge savings on women’s cycling apparel and accessories, saddles for men and women, and other cool stuff from major outdoor brands. These are our best prices of the year (up to 80% off) and an amazing opportunity to connect with the Terry community.
WHEN: Wednesday, July 26th from 10am – 6pm and Thursday, July 27th from 9am – 5pm WHERE: Terry Warehouse, 7 Ambrose Place, Burlington VT 05401
In addition to hosting two days of spectacular savings, we will also be raffling off a $500 Terry gift certificate to support our community after a series of devastating floods. Raffle entries will be available starting at $2, with 100% of proceeds donated to Vermont flood relief funds. If you cannot make it to the event and would like to help out, please consider making a donation to our friends at Onion River Outdoors: gofundme.com/onion-river-outdoors-flood-relief
With a penchant for history-rich cycling adventures and a desire to visit another part of the wonderful Empire State Trail system, my husband and I opted to ride the Erie Canal Trail route in May, avoiding the busy season. We left our vehicle in Albany, NY, and made an easy Amtrak transfer to Buffalo with bikes and camping gear in tow for our big trip.
A selfie with my husband, Andy, at the beginning of the trail in Tonawanda, NY.
Spring was in full bloom on the Erie Canal Trail in every sense: wild honeysuckle, knee-high buttercups, pink and white trillium trailside, acres as far as the eye could see of apple trees in white splendor, even heady lilacs from properties edging the path. We encountered young families of Canadian geese and rode single file to keep the ganders with chirping, fuzzy young, from any dangers while protective adults honked at us alarmingly with open mouths. I initially feared for my ankles but eventually laughed—the geese provided welcomed entertainment on our route.
Sharing the trail with Canadian geese families.
Over the next seven days, we pedaled on predominantly smooth, stone dust surfaces, alternating with paved sections, and followed former rail lines and towpaths, and a handful of diversions on roads. We had allotted more days to finish but averaged 50-mile days to avoid a forecasted, unchanging, rainy day. At the end of it, we were lucky to have not encountered any rain at all. Impressively, there is no shortage of Erie Canal and/or Empire State Trail signage to guide you on the 350-mile route—it would be hard to get lost.
An accomplishment selfie marking the halfway point!
As we learned from historical signs, the Erie Canal’s initial purpose was to move grain from central New York to the Port of New York. An engineering marvel when it was first constructed, some called this great canal the Eighth Wonder of the World. The fascinating part—at least for history buffs like me—the canal was so successful that the waterway had to be enlarged or rebuilt wider with some sections abandoned, as boat traffic increased.
Brushing up on history with informative signage.Selfie at Modern Lock. Locks are elevators for boats, lifting and lowering them as they travel along the canal.
From the bike seat, we pedaled along three diverse segments: from stone dust track along the narrow section with herons and turtles in the algae-covered swamps, to dry or wet 60-foot wider segments, to the 120-foot wide, present-day navigable canal with locks, picnic tables, camping spots, and water spigots to delight in, as well as tie-ups for boaters.
Favorite canal trail surface: stone dust.Free camping along the canal.
With temperatures ranging from 35-75F, versatile clothing was key to keeping warm with limited pannier space. My two favorite Terry items—I wore them daily—were the Hybrid Jacket and Thermal Full Zip Long Sleeve Jersey. Both were lightweight to carry, rolled up small, could easily be packed, and provided a great warmth-to-weight ratio.
Hybrid JacketAnnie in her favorite Thermal Jersey and Peloton CapriThermal Long Sleeve Jersey – new prints coming Fall 2023
This was my first long-distance journey in ten years. My new touring bike handled the miles with aplomb but could use a different saddle. Luckily, I know just where to find one! Overall I learned some history and got to tour again with my favorite partner. I’m excited for a similar journey in July. This time I aim to ride fewer miles per day and eat more ice cream!
For over three decades women of all ages and riding disciplines have been able to turn to Terry for best-in-class cycling apparel, saddles, and accessories that prioritize performance, comfort, and personal style. It has always been our philosophy that cycling is for everyone and this summer, we decided it’s high time we truly offer riding gear for all and introduced some particularly compelling Men’s apparel to our lineup. Ladies will always come first in our little corner of the cycling world but this season, we’d like to extend an invite to the guys to discover the Terry difference. Here’s a sampling of what’s in store for men…
Top Of The Line
All the calls (some shouted from mountain tops) for a male companion to our revolutionary Soleil bike tops led to the creation of our SolMate collection. Complementary in print, fully UPF 50+ sun protective and crafted to fit real bodies, we originally designed these duos for couples who love to do everything together, including riding. However, there is no reason the Men’s Soleil Long Sleeve can’t be worn solo or on active pursuits that don’t just involve cycling. You see, the magic comes from the ultralight and smooth micropoly/spandex fabric that is comfortably wearable in every climate and every season. It wicks moisture, feels cool against the skin, has anti-odor properties, and built-in sun protection that won’t wash away or fade over time. Outfitted with rear pockets and styled to move without restriction, the Men’s Soleil is technically geared for all-day activity whether you’re cycling or casting. We’ve seen it used for hiking, biking, fishing, pickleball, in the gym and on the golf course—the opportunities are endless.
Don’t just take our word for it, let these 5-star reviews speak for themselves.
Great Men’s top
My husband has been jealous of my Soleil jerseys for as long as I’ve worn them. We were excited to see a men’s version. I bought it for him and he loves it. His favorite thing is that it’s not scratchy like the other men’s tops he has and he likes that the long sleeves keep the sun off his skin. The fit is true. He’s thinking about getting another.
– Nadine S.
SolMates Aaron & Sharon enjoying their SoleMate tops while biking in Paso Robles, CA.
Can’t get this top off my husband!
I bought this top and the women’s top together. It is really comfortable as well as attractive. My husband wears it all the time. He likes the feel of it and the fit is perfect for him.
– Constance L.
Game, set, MATCH. Steve had to snap a picture when he and a buddy showed up to play pickleball in the same Soleil. Photo credit: Steve Gelineau
Bottoms By ZOIC
When it came to offering the guys something to pair up with our new Men’s Soleil, we turned to one of the leaders in cycling bottoms for men: Zoic. Founders, Eric and Paul, created their first mountain bike short in 1994 to bring tech-blended comfort to the growing population of fat tire aficionados. This heritage of innovation and exploration is forever infused in their versatile designs for everyone from downhill deviants to entry-level commuters, to runners and surfers alike. We couldn’t think of a better team to partner up with and are thrilled to be carrying their technically packed, yet super wearable bike bottoms for both men and women.
Men’s Guide Short
Available in 11 inch & 9 inch inseams. Key features: Zoic’s lightest weight, quick-drying, 4-way stretch fabric for unrestricted movement, plenty of pockets, a fusion gusset that prevents sag and saddle snag, and an elastic waistband with nylon belt for adjustability. Unpadded for ultimate versatility.
Men’s Ether 12 Short
Key features: Duraflex fabric stretches when you move and is superiorly abrasion resistant, integrated Air Flow mesh ventilation panels below the back waistband and down the leg, angled Active Access cargo pockets provide no-spill access to essentials, and a snap and zip fly closure and elastic back waistband with ExactFit hook & loop side-adjuster tabs to dial in fit. 12 inch inseam. Shop the unpadded, best-selling, trail-tested, and 5-star rated Ether Bike Short.
Men’s Premium Liner
Pair the Men’s Premium Liner with the Guide or Ether Short and you’re ready to ride. Key features: super soft Italian-made chamois with multi-level ergonomic foam and advanced moisture wicking properties, a revolutionary Quick Relief Fly for nature breaks, a handy quick draw pocket, and a 4-way stretch, recycled polyester/spandex fabrication with excellent breathability.
This isn’t our first rodeo or even our second when it comes to designing and supplying the most comfortable bike saddles on the market for women and men. It’s our belief that being on the right saddle lays the foundation for cycling success. The wrong fit will make every mile feel like a chore—and often a painful one at that. For this reason, we offer myriad options for every style of riding from road cycling to commuting to mountain biking and endurance efforts. Here’s a list of just some of our Men’s saddles that have led to hundreds of thousands of success stories.
Fly Ti Gel
Originally introduced in 1999, the Italian-made Fly set the standard for men’s saddle comfort. It’s wowed fans across the world including pro riders, RAAM riders and randonneurs. This particular version bumps up comfort levels with a thin layer of gel across the saddle top. The Fly Ti Gel is intended for endurance/distance riders and triathletes who put more pressure against the front of the saddle. Also available in gel-free, synthetic-covered (and vegan-friendly) versions, and a shock-absorbing option that is particularly popular with mountain bikers.
Liberator Y Elite
The men’s Liberator Elite is designed for the endurance and touring rider who needs all-day comfort, demands premium features and wants the optimal balance of relief and saddle weight. This saddle has a wider cutaway than the other Liberators in our line, providing additional relief when pursuing high mileage and a thin gel layer along the top of the saddle to provide an increased level of comfort. Shop the full Liberator Y family of saddles.
Cite Y Gel Italia
Our Cite Italia Gel saddle combines the utmost in comfort with the latest in Italian design and manufacturing. Using the best in cover, gel and rail materials, they are a little lighter and sleeker than their Taiwanese counterparts. The Cite Y series of saddles are ideal for recreational riders who spend a half day on the bike or less, ride nearly upright with lots of weight against the saddle, prefer the closest thing to a pillow or have significant lower back pain.
Selecting a saddle doesn’t have to be a pain in the rear.
Finding the right saddle can be tricky. If you’re unsure about which saddle is best for your riding needs, you can turn to our Saddle Selector for help. You can easily find the perfect riding mate by answering a few easy questions—try it now to receive an expert recommendation based on your riding style. You can also check out this blog which covers the how tos of saddle selection and contains comprehensive advice from our master saddle matchmakers.
Need further assistance on saddles, apparel, and all things cycling gear? Our all-star Customer Service Team is happy to help and only ever a call or email away.
Is your dad a cyclist? Or is he your strongest supporter? Or maybe you’re the rad dad that rides? However you spin it, we think the dads of cycling are pretty dang cool. This Father’s Day we’re delighted to celebrate some of the dads in the Terry sphere that helped shape us into the cyclists we are today. Below you’ll find stories from dads who work at Terry, how Terry team members have been inspired or supported by their dads, and some fond fatherly memories from staff and ambassadors.
Cheers to the dads of cycling! Tell us about your dad or father figure in the comments.
Dedicated Dad, David, expresses the joys of fatherhood.
The joy of being a dad cannot be undersold. There are a variety of outdoor activities that we can enjoy together in Vermont that has bonded my family closely. As the kids grow and our family becomes bigger, the addition of spouses and grandchildren makes the outdoor adventures even more exciting and fun. Being a father to such a great group of young adults has filled my life with immense love and immeasurable happiness.
David’s daughter Molly enjoying a ride at Cady Hill in Stowe.David and his son Chris mountain biking at Little River State Park.David’s daughter Meg at the backcountry zone in Brandon Gap.David’s whole crew enjoying a summer BBQ on Lake Champlain.
My father Ken has always been supportive of all my and my brother’s outdoor interests, from rock climbing to hiking to biking. When my brother was younger he used to BMX bike and my father built him a quarter pipe to practice his tricks. He also built me an outdoor climbing wall on the side of our family’s barn. He has always been a handy man to have around! Now that he is in his 70’s (and finally retired!), he has decided that he wants to keep the adventures going by investing in Ebikes for himself and his loving wife of 40+ years. Love you!
Alysia C. shares how her dad will be enjoying retirement.
My dad just retired and is planning to spend the summer cycling, something he used to do a lot but hasn’t done in 10 years. He brought his two bikes from 1987 to a bike shop to get tuned up and the techs joked about them being antiques.
Cam R. raises a glass to her dad.
Cam’s dad: getting the party started since 1965.
I’ll try to keep it short but there’s a lot to be said about the man, the myth, the legend—my dad. Michael (or Miguel in some circles but never Mike) gifted me with his competitive spirit, wry sense of humor, and love of live music. My dad is the life of the party and lives every day to its fullest potential. He’s the definition of the phrase ‘work hard, play hard’. He, his dad, and my maternal grandfather have all taught me in their own way how to ditch the training wheels and take life by the handlebars. Despite growing up on a hill that neared a 90-degree angle, he encouraged me to ride bikes and to let a healthy dose of fear be my fuel. My dad has inspired my brothers and me to get our hands dirty, seek adventure at every turn, and never shy away from a challenge. In fact, the last time we were together he challenged me to a swimming contest and I still can’t decide if I am proud to saythat at 30 years my senior, he completely lapped me in the pool. Cheers to you, you bon vivant and pain in my butt!
Lisa W’s dad was a talented rider.
Lisa’s dad, Bill, was the quintessential Vermont cowboy.
My dad didn’t ride bikes but loved the freedom of riding horses, that love and desire for freedom is in me, too. He has inspired me to saddle up in one way or another!
Terry Ambassador, Laura, remembers her dad Blondie and a very special Schwinn.
My dad told me to go to the bike shop & pick out a 10-speed for my 14th birthday. I was thrilled that they had exactly what I wanted. I rode that bike all over town. Little did I know that on my and my husband’s very first Santana tandem tour along the Danube River in 2012, we would be seated at dinner with cycling icons Richard & Debra Schwinn! I couldn’t stop talking about my orange Schwinn.
Laura and her beloved Schwinn, taken in 1973.
….My dad always encouraged me to be adventurous and his passing just shy of his 59th birthday in 1988 motivated me to live a fitness lifestyle and focus on fun. He’d be shocked to know just how adventurous I’ve become. Just a side note—his dad rode a bicycle into his 90’s (it’s a Dutch thing).
Laura and her husband, Kevin, on one of their many tandem adventures.
We are blessed to have a few dedicated males working here at Terry who not only fully support women’s cycling, but also the kids they are raising or have raised. And while rearing these fine young citizens, they’ve managed to instill the joy of two wheels along the way…
Phillip Diehl Director of Ecommerce, or Dr. Phil as we like to call him.
David Howard Director of Sales and Sails.
Luke Tremble Fulfillment Supervisor and BBQ MVP.
Colin Dodgson Web Marketing Specialist and Lamb Whisperer.
Nik Holm Director of Operations and two adorable little ones.
We salute you guys and wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day!
Contributed by Author & Terry Ambassador, Haven Lindsey.
If you are familiar with The Velveteen Rabbit, the book written more than 100 years ago by Margery Williams Bianco, you may relate to the notion of when inanimate objects become Real. In the story the Skin Horse explains to the Velveteen Rabbit what it’s like to become Real…
You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.
Margery Williams Bianco. The Velveteen Rabbit.
My bike is Real. I just learned that recently when I took it into my local bike shop for a much-needed tuneup. Having lived and ridden at or near sea level for all of my life, that is no longer the case. I now live in the high desert climate of northern New Mexico which means it is dry and arid. At 8,000 feet, the air is thin, which makes it harder to breathe. We receive more sun-filled days than Florida and being that much closer to the sun means it can feel hot as blazes in the summer. All of those factors combine to make cycling challenging. Tired of struggling on climbs on my well-worn and much-loved bike, I took it into the shop thinking I needed a new chain. “Surely, that will help,” I thought. I was partially right.
I had called the shop in advance to make sure they could take it right away—otherwise, I would continue to clunk along on it until they could turn it around quickly. I had planned to drop it off prior to going on a two-day trip and figured I could pick it up on my way back home. The shop owners thought the same thing. I confidently rolled the bike in and walked up to the counter where the owners and employees were helping customers and servicing bikes. Initially, we talked about the tune-up and the fact that I wanted new grip tape for the summer riding season. They asked all the right questions. I responded with all the right answers. I also described my struggle getting over the “hills” as they are called here, or as the rest of the world calls them, mountains.
Haven climbing one of the many “hills” of northern New Mexico.
The owner put my bike on the rack to inspect the chain and as he studied it, he looked up at me with a slight, almost sly grin on his face, “This bike has been through a lot.” I smiled and replied, “And I’ve been right there with it.”
Within minutes, all three employees were standing around my bike with what I think, was a new-found respect. And then that’s when it happened. As they turned the wheels and tested the gears of the bike that had been ridden, worn, and loved, I realized that somewhere along the way, my bike had become Real. My best friend. My most trusted companion.
As I watched the gurus talk, I became aware of what I was experiencing about my bike. I felt a sense of pride for the thousands of miles we had ridden in Maine, Vermont, North Carolina, and Texas. I remembered the unfortunate crashes. One in particular when I had gone head over heels over a guard rail and the first thing I asked when I sat up covered in dust and weeds with a bloody knee, was “Is my bike okay?”. I thought about the group rides I had participated in—the times I had been dropped by the peloton and the times I was the one who broke away. I thought of the hours spent with it on the trainer, listening to loud music on some rides and pedaling in silence on others.
It was then that the bike shop owner, almost like a surgeon who had consulted with his medical team, walked over and said, “I think we can help you.” By the time I walked out, I had agreed to the bike version of open-heart surgery.
Haven’s trusty steed and two-wheeled companion.
My assertion about the chain had been correct—I needed a new one. But both the bike and I needed more than that to successfully tackle the “hills.” A complete overhaul was agreed upon, including a new cassette with one additional gear—a lower one that I could use for uphill riding.
The bike version of open-heart surgery can take some time. New parts had to be ordered and during the extended time my bike was in the shop, the owners checked in with me to assure me the parts were being shipped and they would call me the moment it was ready. Each time they called I had a feeling that they somehow recognized that this bike, my bike, was Real.
Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.”
The thing about being Real is, as the stuffed animals in the children’s story discovered, it cannot be manufactured. Real is real. Real is authentic. And cycling is no different. If you’ve ridden your bike on those days when the Chamber of Commerce would never consider photographing because the weather is so snotty, or on those days when it feels like there is a headwind in every direction, or on those days when you don’t feel like riding but you don’t feel like not riding, you understand how a bike can become Real.
I’ve ridden in beautiful weather when the bright, white clouds seem to be playing music above my head. On days like that, it feels like my bike and I are dancing—we’re playing and doing what we were meant to do. Those vacation-like rides are every bit as authentic as the rides where we suffer. I once rode my bike on what appeared to be brand new pavement, its shiny, smooth surface beckoning me to accelerate—until I realized that the asphalt, under the hot North Carolina sun, had not yet solidified. It was gooey and gummy. My bike and I may as well have been insects stuck to sticky tape. I also once bonked so bad riding in Texas that my hamstrings cramped and I had to be driven home—hiding my bike in the shrubs until I could go back and pick it up. I’ve ridden with a broken foot and a broken heart—both healed with time and miles (the heart took longer to heal).
All of these experiences resulted in my bike becoming Real. But the bike wasn’t the only thing that transitioned. I became Real too. The highs and the lows on a bike, just like the highs and lows in life, are the experiences that are there to teach us if we are willing to listen. Being Real stays with you. If you’re Real on your bike, you’re Real everywhere else. When you’re Real you attract Real. Relationships with spouses, partners, friends, colleagues, and even strangers, exist on a deeper level. Real isn’t on the surface, it’s a few layers down.
My bike survived its open-heart surgery and together, we are once again tearing up the roads of northern New Mexico, the new cassette and lower gear are being put to good use. My bike doesn’t have a lot of miles left on it and is destined to someday become my ‘trainer-only’ ride, bike retirement, I suppose. In time there will be another bike that will likely become Real too. After all, when you are Real the things around tend to do the same.
To read more of Haven Lindsey’s work, please visit her website: 4havensake.com
Take a glimpse at what Bike Month looks like at Terry. We wouldn’t lay claim that we are 100% dedicated to mobilizing women and making cycling a more approachable and comfortable experience if we didn’t test, wear, and love our products ourselves. See what the femme fatales at Terry love from our collection—featuring high performance bottoms, versatile multisport essentials, and a stunning array of tops in alluring prints and vibrant hues—all designed to get you moving and grooving confidently.
Annie F., Customer Service Pro
What are you riding in these days?
We’re straddling seasonal weather lately in Vermont. When it’s brisk, I rock the Peloton Capri and versatile Tulip Jersey, topped with the Hybrid Jacket. On warmer days, I’m deep into the summer vibe with my go-to Vista Top for its flattering, curved hemline and colorful prints. I feel like the Vista Top was made specifically for me—someone who likes stylish, wicking tops without typical jersey pockets. My favorite 2023 short is the new, more supportive, Breakaway Hi-Rise Short. And for protection from Lake Champlain’s chilly breeze, the Hybrid Jacket is always with me, even in higher temps.
In addition to being a passionate cyclist, you’re also an accomplished sewist. Are you working on any sewing projects currently?
I’m currently repurposing a large purple fanny pack into a front rack bag. The plan is to attach the bag using a sturdy hook and loop material. As with most of my creative projects, the plan is somewhat fluid, evolving over time—the finished product must be functional and unique.
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
I’d love to be a Canadian goose, always traveling, deciding when and where to stop for the evening.
Shanin E., Accounting Whiz & RV Vagabond
Shanin and her husband Phil rocking the SolMates collection in Dream Team.
What’s your favorite piece from the Terry line?
It’s not a one-off, but a whole collection! My all-time favorite is the Soleil Collection. I especially love the Long Sleeve Tops (relaxed fit, athletic fit, and pocket-free, they are all a perfect match for me), Hoody, and Tanks. I use them for all occasions—when I am riding or hiking they offer sun protection and moisture wicking. When it’s time to hit town the prints are very stylish and the tops stay fresh thanks to the antimicrobial fabric.
How is living life full-time in an RV? Where in the U.S. are you right now?
We are currently making our way back across the country from New Mexico to upstate New York for our daughter’s college graduation. We are staying at a COE (Corp of Engineers Campground) called Dog Creek in Dog Run, KY. It’s Nestled along the banks of the Nolin River. It’s a beautiful spot…it’s been a bit stormy but we were lucky enough to have sunshine yesterday and it will continue today. For those of you who are not familiar with COE Campgrounds there are over 2,400 COE campgrounds in the U.S. and they typically are found along the border of lakes and reservoirs. This is our 6th COE since we hit the road in September 2022 and they all have been peaceful and beautiful.
What is your favorite place you’ve been since taking to the road?
We have so many favorite spots, it’s too hard to list them all. I would say our favorite National Parks are Big Bend in Texas and White Sands in New Mexico. Our favorite cities to date are: Sante Fe, NM., Silver City, NM., and Austin, TX.
Shanin is all about Terry, all the time. See how she styles Terry apparel to suit every adventure and every day of the year in her blog: 365 Days In Terry
Paula D., Creative Director & VP
What are you wearing from Terry?
Lucky me…I most recently got to wear samples of Fall 23 tops on my recent ride through Yellowstone. For 2 weeks prior to opening the roads to cars, it’s bikes only so the perfect backdrop and conditions for Spring testing & training.
Styled with: Paul Smith limited edition helmet & Rapha sunglasses
Favorite NEW print coming in September:Northern Lights
As one of Terry’s fearless leaders, what is the greatest risk you’ve taken?
Riding Kings Ridge and Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California with sample road shoes that didn’t have cleats on the bottom.
Kelly K., Marketing & Merchandising Maven
What’s your most frequently worn piece from the Terry line?
From sunrise to sunset, the Metro BTK runs the gamut almost 7 days a week as hemlines start to creep up. From riding the Lehigh Valley Trail, to working in the garden, to running errands around town, there’s no slowing down (or need for a wardrobe change!) with the just below-the-knee length Metro around. Love them for their versatility to easily transition from activity to activity; the lightweight fabric keeps its cool and resists wrinkles, and the handy thigh pocket keeps my phone in place while on the go and back again.
Kelly’s everyday essential: The Metro BTK
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Oof, that’s a tough one! I’ll roll with Mind Reading.
Cam R., MarComm & Social Media Guru
Cam scooping up her furry friend, Rick, before loading her into the Tail Wagon Pet Trailer and riding off into the sunset.
What are you riding in this Summer?
The Sun Goddess Jersey always tops my list of favorites for warm-weather riding! The slightly shorter cut perfectly suits my more petite frame and I am crazy about the new Van Go print that puts my favorite colors front and center. Add the venting front zipper and breathable, racer back and I am all set for summeradventuring. I’ll be pairing the Sun Goddess with my Chill Shorts—I ride in all three lengths and decide which to go with depending on my mood and the weather. I can never decide what I love most about them, the sleek look, promises-to-never-pinch waistband, the laser cut hem that never rides up, the higher compression fit, or my personal Goldilocks of chamois, the Flex Air Lite.
What song are you playing on repeat?
I’d be remiss if I didn’t admit there are a few show tunes on my most listened to playlist, BUT right now Hanging On The Telephone by Blondie has gotten me up some pretty steep hills.
Amy F., Merchandising Connoisseur
What are you wearing from Terry this summer?
My Terry go-to pieces are the same year round, either a Soleil Flow or a Tech Tee Flow. The only thing that changes is the sleeve length with the seasons—long sleeves in the cooler months and short sleeves in Summer. I love the fabric weight and how it feels on my skin; they are fast drying and not clingy at all. I also love the fact that I get a ton of compliments on the colors and patterns! In the colder months, I typically use the Tech Tees as a base layer. And as I’ve gotten older, I pay more attention to protecting my skin from the sun and love the fact that the Soleils and Tech Tees offer UV protection. I’m heading to Virginia Beach for Memorial Day and these will be the only tops I bring, especially since they pack beautifully and never wrinkle in my suitcase! I’m also bringing my new Cyclo Dress and am hopeful that the weather will be warm enough to try it out.
Take a peak at some of Amy’s faves.
What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
My favorite way to spend a day off is to hop on my bike with a book and a light lunch in my backpack cooler and ride the bike path over to Thayer Beach in Colchester, VT. I try to find a spot close to the tree line so I have some shade where I can hunker down for a few hours and rejuvenate. I love hearing all the kids playing and usually run into a friend or someone I haven’t seen in a bit. It’s a popular spot.
What is something that can instantly make your day better?
If I’m having a bad day, the best way to put it behind me is to get my bike and push myself to the limit! I ALWAYS feel better after exercising and knowing I’m doing something good for my body. It takes my mind off whatever happened that day and helps to move my focus on the future and what’s to come next.
Lisa W., Customer Service Queen
What is your favorite piece this season?
While it is always easy to rave about my much-loved Soleil tops, it is important to also share my love of the Hi Rise Holster Capri bike bottoms. The comfortable chamois, non-grip hem and high rise waist together make for great riding…especially when it’s still cool in the mornings!
Lisa’s winning combo: The Hi Rise Holster Capri & Soleil Flow Long Sleeve Top.
What is your earliest memory of riding a bike?
While I have some adorable photos of me with my childhood bikes, my first real memories happened when I was 39 and decided to ride a century event and raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I bought a bike (after realizing my yard sale bike was not an option) and on my first training ride with the team, it snowed! I had very cold ankles and a very sore butt.
For my second ride, I sported wool socks and a beautiful new Terry Butterfly Ti Saddle..a few years later I was the head coach of the program.
Here I am in June of 1999 with my new bike rolling into my new world:
