Tag: Bicycles for Women

TERRY TEAM: MEET LENORE IMHOF.

Whether she is recharging her batteries on a bike, or juggling her busy schedule, this month’s newest Terry teammate never stops rolling.

Lenore balances a career as a school teacher and an attorney; family life, including her cycle-loving mom and rescue-dog Jake; volunteering and training for her next adventure.

She began cycling in 6th grade when Santa brought her a shiny new Silver Ross 10 speed with red lettering. She hoped it would give her skinnier legs; instead it gave her a love of cycling. It was her outlet when her dad was struggling with Parkinson’s; and again when career changes inspired dream changes; in addition, it provides fuel for all things everyday life throws her way.

While her resume includes her high school’s “Teacher of the Year Award” and numerous other professional accolades, it’s her lifelong love of sports that got my attention. She began swimming at age 4, which lead to her role as captain of the Georgetown University NCAA Division 1 swim team and many strong triathlon finishes…including a big win right here in Vermont.

Her first bike race was in ’96 and she went on to race for many teams including Colavita Bolla and Colavita Cooking Light as a Cat 2 Domestique. She loves the team energy, maneuvers, speed, and strategy.

She has a tough time choosing her best day ever on the bike and in many ways hopes that day is yet to come. Some of her favorites include the 30+ women’s 3-day, 4-race Coupe des Amerique win in Quebec in 2002; the Tuesday Night Race Series at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in NJ; and the “underdog” Colavita Cooking Light women’s win at the 4-day “Tour of Fitchburg.”

When her big racing days ended with repeated herniated disks in her neck, she moved to Minnesota for a summer. Here, Lenore renewed her love of cycling on trails, in the mountains, and on single track; riding like she did as a kid in NJ, for fun, wearing skorts and meeting lots of wonderful people.

While her pre-ride food is often a French or Italian roast coffee, she has many healthy eating habits like fruity protein yogurt smoothies, salmon, and leafy salads with red peppers. Lenore has brought her lunch to school every day for 21 years–she calls this her Terry clothing budget builder!

When Lenore checks in at Terry, we love to hear about all of her new endeavors and all she is doing to make her community a better place. Her goal for 2016 is good advice for all of us, more stretching!

It’s great to have you on our team, Lenore!

-Lisa Wilkes

About the Terry Team: This is a monthly shout out to dedicated Terry fans who are part of our illustrious sisterhood of athletes and adventurers. We ride through wind and rain. We sweat. We dream. We discover. We push ourselves to and past our limits. We take each day and ride it to its fullest. Sound like you? Send your story to customerservice@terrybicycles.com.

April 8, 2016
A WINNING TERRY STORY.

Every once in a while, we offer the chance to win a Terry Bicycle. The most fun is letting someone know they’ve won. We just had to share this lucky winner’s response…

Dear Lisa and the Gals,
Instead of giving you my height and inseam, I want to share with you my Terry Story. I’m not a random internet email winner.

You have no idea the synchronicity that just occurred. I haven’t been able to ride much since my severe trimalleolar ankle fracture 7 years ago. How it happened? Not on a bike, just walking down a slippery slope.

But just this morning after physical therapy was going so well (6 months after my second ankle surgery), I hoped and dreamed of riding again. Riding my favorite bike anytime. My beloved Terry.

I went to the garage to get ready. In my saddle bag, there was my lost spare key fob, gone 6 months. I couldn’t believe my luck. After a 6 month recovery, what a lucky find. I thought, “the gods are smiling and telling me its time to ride again. It’s OK. It’s time. I won’t hurt my ankle, and make things worse”. But my ankle was getting sore, so I decided to sit, ice, and check my emails.

And that’s when I read your email and wanted to jump up and down, but mostly shuffled, cried and said, “OMG,OMG,OMG. I wish they knew my whole Terry Story: the why and the how it became my favorite bike. How it gave me the comfort and security to go from riding 1 city block to hundreds of country miles.”

Sincerely in Terry Bicycle Love,

P.S. If you insist on giving me the bike, I want to coordinate it with the Boise Bike Project to find the best size for a suitable woman in need of a bike. Let’s keep in touch.

Interested in entering our current contest? Click here, and if you have a winning bike story of your own please let us know in the comment section below!

Happy Riding,

The Terry Team

April 5, 2016
SHOP LOCAL: BICYCLE GARAGE INDY.

Established in 1983, Bicycle Garage Indy is a leader in the Indianapolis and Central Indiana community. The knowledgeable of their professional staff is their most important asset and key to providing the best possible customer service for life-long, loyal customers. They strive to support and increase bicycling in their community through advocacy efforts, event support and by providing bicycles to those in need through their Shifting Gears program. During 2016 they plan to have monthly activities (March – November) focused on increasing the number of women who ride: large events like Ladies’ Nights as well as smaller events like clinics and rides.

Why do you think women choose to shop at your store?

We strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all of our customers. In addition, we hold special events such as Ladies’ Nights which provide an evening of socializing, information and shopping 2-3 times a year. One of our most popular Ladies’ Nights was a fashion show which featured clothing from Terry as well as other vendors. Over the past 9 years, more than 750 unique women have attended our Ladies’ Nights. We regularly hold fixing flat tire clinics as well as other topics (Mastering your bike, Shifting Gears on Your Bike, Riding Outside Your Neighborhood for example) and clinic attendees are 60% women.

Why do you sell Terry?

The quality and design of Terry products is a great complement to the other clothing lines we carry. We are able to provide a great variety of clothing options by carrying Terry. We also carry Terry saddles which provide additional options for saddle comfort.

When a new-to-cycling female customer comes in, what’s the first thing you tell her about cycling?

“Bicycling is a fun activity, no matter what type of bicycling you are interested in. There are many opportunities to ride with others and learn about bicycling in our community. We have clinics, women-focused rides and events throughout the year; we encourage you to check them out and meet other women interested in bicycling.”

April 5, 2016
DREAM GEAR: CYCLING IN MALLORCA.

Gear that “made the ride” while on the bike vacation of a lifetime.

The epic sights were without question the best part of the ride – but coming in at a close second? My shorts.

The Bella Prima Bib Shorts were a ride saver. The Flex Air chamois provides padding in all the right places while the soft wing construction eliminates bunching and chafing letting me focus on the ride rather than the shorts. For hurried pit stops at seaside cafes, I simply unzipped my jacket and jersey and pulled the stretchy, open mesh halter-top up over my helmet!

Paired with the bib, I wore the full zip, super lightweight, moisture wicking Terry Bella Jersey and matching arm warmers and a sleeveless base layer for maximum versatility as temps fluctuate with altitude and proximity to the sea. The UPF 50+ fabric is a bonus in the Mediterranean sun. Have you ever seen the Mediterranean sun? It looks a lot like this –

For colder, wetter days? I chose the Terry Thermal Tights. They are so brushed and comfy, and make you feel like you are swimming in warm butter. With a DWR finish, they are remarkably wind resistant and even provide protection in a light drizzle.

Pairing this with the Mandarin Thermal Jersey I stayed warm and dry without over heating through my ride. Even without the gear however, I think I would have found a way to continue cycling when the scenery looked like this:

In the North where roads were relatively smooth, I most certainly benefitted from the range of motion and slimmer profile provided by my FLX Gel saddle.

However, on some of the rougher southern roads and in villages with cobblestones I did wish that I had the shock absorbing PORON XRD found in the Butterfly Century.

Also handy? Knog high lumen lights. They are easy to strap on, are available as front and rear lights and invaluable for tunnels particularly in the Tramuntana Mountains with its beautiful alpine like villages.

And last but NOT least: Fly Swiss International and your bike will travel for $125 each way. And if you’re lucky, it might even get a free ride. Also, make sure you have new tires (25cm) on that bike!

Want to see more of Mallorca? Check it out here.

Tailwinds,

Liz Robert, CEO

March 23, 2016
SHOP LOCAL: GUS’ BIKE SHOP.

Jeff and Leslie Latimer own Gus’ Bike Shop in North Hampton, NH. We caught up with Leslie at a recent event for “Gus’ Gals” at their shop and asked her a few questions.

Tell us a bit about Gus’ Bike Shop:

“When my husband and I bought the shop there was no bike shop in New Hampshire that had a women’s department or worked to make women feel at home. We created a welcoming atmosphere, a weekly shop ride just for women, monthly pot luck suppers and minute clinics before each weekly ride” – Today you’ll typically find 40 -50 women joining our Thursday evening ride during the summer.

One of my favorite descriptions of our shop was written by a customer – it’s right here on our website: “Gus’ has been a purple institution (literally, purple) on the New Hampshire seacoast for many years, but only recently has the shop has been transformed into the community cycling epicenter. This change has occurred thanks to the Latimer family who purchased the store several years ago and have single-handedly recruited more women into cycling than I think even they could have imagined. Although the shop is known for its striking women’s cycling fashions, the slick women-specific bikes and the always friendly and helpful advice, it’s the palpable feel of family and community that attracts women who quickly become loyal customers. Before you even get out of your car, you are enthusiastically greeted by the couple’s teenage sons (and dog!). Outside the shop, local cyclists relax in chairs under big umbrellas and wave hi as you walk by like you’ve known each other for years. Inside, the crew gives you a big hello and asks you about your family. Where else do you get this type of welcome?” This summer Gus’ will be celebrating our 45th year of serving Seacoast cyclists and we’re looking forward to another great season with Gus’ Gals – the name affectionately chosen by the ladies for their Thursday evening ride.

Why do you think women choose to shop at your store?

Women are made to feel welcome here at Gus’ Bike Shop. Every customer here get’s the “Gus’ love”

Why do you sell Terry?

“Love Terry fit and Terry style. This past summer we did a tour in Quebec. The Terry tops are stylish enough to wear out to dinner paired with the Metro Crop pants. The top I wore to dinner, became the next days jersey. Each day I wore the Bella shorts and they have become a favorite of mine. I’ve actually worn some of my Terry jerseys and sweaters to work and never fail to get compliments on them.”

When a new-to-cycling female customer comes in, what’s the first thing you tell her about cycling?

“That it’s fun and that there’s a place for her on a Gus’ ride. Our rides feature a fast, medium, social or really social pace, no one’s left out. It’s all about community. “

March 9, 2016
REIGNITE YOUR BIKE LOVE.

Accessories that will spice-up your ride.

As the weather warms, we start to see more and more bikes out on the road that catch your eye and make you say, “…WHOA”. I am here to share my secrets to making the bike you already have, more whoa-worthy without spending a ton of dough.

A little tape can go a long way.

Manual for Speed RFTD SPACE TAPE. Image Source: shop.manualforspeed.com

Available at Manual for Speed, an optical print, Cinelli bar tape can do incredible things for your ride. If you’re feeling like the love for your bicycle is fading – try giving your bike a good scrub down and adding this Space Tape. Your heart and ride will race again.

Take your ride out of this world.

Terry Butterfly Galactic+ Saddle

Not only does the Galactic take comfort up a notch (with a wider cut-out than then traditional Terry Butterfly™), it’s also designed with an iridescent night sky cover with reflective constellation details. How cool is that? SO COOL – everyone who spots it on my bright orange frame is awestruck. However, you don’t have to just take my word for it–if you happen to spot one around town, snap a picture with your flash on and I promise, you will see stars.

Add a bit of Retro Flare.

Veloflex Master Clincher Road Tire. Image Source: www.biketiresdirect.com

As I entered the road bike world, it seemed to be a rule that simple is best for tires. However while watching current cycling trends, as one naturally does on their day off, you know that gumwall tires are back in style and oh boy does that make me happy. My top pick for this throwback accessory is the Veloflex Master Clincher Road Tire. For those of you who want a full on color tire, it’s also available in yellow, blue and red, and can be found here.

Jewelry for your bicycle.

Kustomcaps Sugar Skull cap. Image Source: kustomcaps.com

The possibilities are endless at Kustomcaps.com. Create your own or choose from ready-made options including their artist series, road caps, and special editions.

Cages that will have you soaring.

The Owl Cage by PDW. Image source: www.ridepdw.com

It is often, as they say, the little things that count. So, if you are looking for a small change for your bicycle that will make you smile look no further than The Owl Cage by Portland Design Works.

Do you have any accessories that make your ride that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comment section below!

Tailwinds –

Whitney

February 10, 2016
SHOP LOCAL: NEBRASKA’S BIKE RACK.

After meeting thousands of women who ride, The Bike Rack knows that everyone who comes into the store will be set up in the saddle a little differently. Their stores, in Omaha and Lincoln, carry the largest selection of bikes and accessories in the Midwest so that they are better able to help women find their dream bikes and the perfect gear.

The goal at Bike Rack is to create a comfortable shop environment that supports all women who want to learn about cycling, advocacy and events in the community, in addition to offering the best bicycles in the area. At this shop, it’s about the experience of freedom, friendship and empowerment that cycling brings. “If we do our jobs right, the only thing you’ll be thinking of as you roll down the road is, “WHEEEEEEE!”

Why do you think women choose to shop at your store?
We have the best customer service in our service departments and on our sales floors. We make it easy to get out and ride!

Why do you sell Terry?
Terry is a company that supports female cyclists in the saddle and out, which means it is easier for us to help women ride comfortably, safely and beautifully. We sell Terry because women love Terry – it’s an absolute favorite in our shop.

When a new-to-cycling women comes in, what’s the first thing you tell her about cycling?
Welcome to the greatest community on the planet!

Next time you’re in the area, stop by or check them out online: Bike-Rack.com

February 8, 2016
SHOP LOCAL: BURLINGTON’S SKIRACK.

Don’t let the name fool you–this is one shop that puts women and cycling front and center. Outfitting enthusiasts since 1969, Skirack is Burlington, Vermont’s Community Bike, Run, Ski, Ride Store.

Visiting Skirack is an adventure all its own. Located on lower Main Street a couple of blocks away from Lake Champlain, many beautiful mountain areas, trails and resorts, you’ll be outfitted for any adventure with the highest quality gear, footwear and clothing.

Whether you’re a skilled cyclist or just starting to ride, you’ll not only find a warm welcome from Skirack’s expert female and male staff, but you’ll also find the best selection of women’s bikes, cycling clothing and accessories anywhere.

Skirack is a key Terry partner, stocking one of the widest varieties of cycling clothing you’ll find in the US. They also provide valuable information about road, off-road, downhill, mountain, fat biking, and commuting. Skirack employees several women who are bike enthusiasts and experts in all kinds of cycling; they welcome any opportunity to encourage and assist women and young girls of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their personal aspirations. In fact, they serve as mentors for Vermont’s “Little Bellas”, a program that serves as an opportunity for young girls to learn to ride, build their biking and personal life skills and develop self esteem and confidence.

Most importantly, Skirack provides a friendly, inviting atmosphere for all riders by listening to each individual’s aspirations and providing expert advice.

Next time you’re in Vermont, be sure to stop in and say hello, or check them out online at www.skirack.com.

Happy Riding!

January 4, 2016
ON A ROLL…ER.

Trying out rollers for winter training.

Image Source: “Best Cycling Rollers Review” Triradar.com.

We all know that nothing can beat the real deal – tailwinds, long climbs, and the wind in our hair – but to get the most out of the riding season we have to put in a bit of winter training. Once you decide that riding during the off season is the choice for you, you are tasked with the age old question…”how?”.

Many join the lively community of Spin, others will choose magnetic, wind, or fluid home trainers and then there are the brave few who decide rollers are the way to go. People who train on rollers are often purists you may also find that they drink their coffee black and drive cars stick shifts.

Personally, I decided to go the roller route because of the real life training it provides your core – the balance you need on rollers is the most similar I have experienced to being on the road. I made a trade off, giving up some of the resistance options available in other trainers for the skill building that rollers can bring to the table. My question to you is, how do you train in the winter? What, if any, do you feel are the pros and cons of that method?

Here is to reliable cleats and carpeted floors,

Whitney McKiddy

November 3, 2015
TERRY TEAM: Meet Sheilah Chisholm.

“Got the shorts and rode a comfortable 100 miles Saturday!”

Sheilah began cycling early in the spinning-craze years, and is a spin instructor when she’s not out on the road.

She loves the camaraderie as well as the health benefits of cycling. This photo was taken two weeks ago when a group of friends wanted to do a “century” just for the fun of it! She said that she couldn’t have done it without her Terry Bella Shorts.

Today, she is completing the “Louisiana MS 150” from Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana to McComb, Mississippi and back again.

3 cheers to Sheilah for supporting the MS Society and for inspiring others in their endeavors!

About the Terry Team: This is a monthly shout out to dedicated Terry fans who are part of our illustrious sisterhood of athletes and adventurers. We ride through wind and rain. We sweat. We dream. We discover. We push ourselves to and past our limits. We take each day and ride it to its fullest. Sound like you? Send your story to customerservice@terrybicycles.com.

October 7, 2015