Terry Peloton

Tag: The New Rider

  • RIDE RESOLUTIONS.

    Go Green

    As we begin the new year, conversations turn toward resolutions whether it be saving money, ditching bad habits (or starting up great new ones), and most often – weight loss. Many of us want to ride more in the upcoming year without the focus on losing weight. Here at Terry, we put together some alternative ride resolutions designed to keep you riding without weighty worries.

    • Put more miles on my bikes than my car
    • Due to my knee injury, I resolve to follow my doctor’s order and get back on my bike to get my knee strong again!
    • Find a safer bike route to work.
    • Start riding with a new group.
    • Plan my cycling schedule while my commitment is strong!
    • Get a trailer and take my puppy for a ride.
    • Plan more adventures on the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail.
    • Ride around Grand Isle with my wife – all summer!
    • Spend time spinning before heading to the climbing gym.
    • Learn how to build my own bike.
    • Register for a community ride that benefits a local organization (Click here to check out our 2016 ride calendar).

    Share your ride resolutions below and tell us where you hope 2016 takes you!

  • SHOP LOCAL: BURLINGTON’S SKIRACK.

    Skirack_WomensBikeNight

    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!

  • ASK A TOUR LEADER: CORE TRAINING FOR CYCLISTS.

     

    BCBS #4

    It’s hard not to have heard about core training. But what is it and how exactly does it benefit cyclists?

    Our core is not what we typically think of – it’s not just your abdominal muscles or having a flat stomach. Your core is a group of muscles that form a band around your midsection. As cyclists our movements come from a stable core.

    Core exercises train the muscles in your abdomen, back, hips and pelvis to work together. This can result in a better ability to really get power out of your legs, at the same time reducing injury and achieving better posture.

    There are many programs available that strengthen the core. Yoga and Pilates are effective here with the added benefits of stretching and developing a mind-body connection that is important to athletes.   Form is very important to achieve the best benefits, so these exercises are best done with a good teacher. Look for experience and professional qualifications. Whatever method you choose, remember your core is a system so look for a regime that works out the whole system, not just your abs.

    Regular core work can make you a stronger cyclist and can reduce injury on and off the bike. Pull out your mat and get going. You’ll be glad you did.

    -Joyce Casey, Adventure Cycling Tour Leader

  • Ask A Tour Leader: Bike Tour Beginner Basics.

     

    Adventure Ready.
    Adventure Ready.

     

    You’ve thought about it, now is the year to do it – go on an overnight bike tour. What are some of the things you need to know?

    Just get out and do it. Traveling by bicycle takes many forms and there are lots of resources to help. Bring only a change of clothes and a credit card, and you can go as far as you’re willing with the same clothes washed in your hotel sink. With racks or a trailer on your bike you can become self-sufficient, camping and cooking wherever it strikes you.

    Bicycle travel happens at a slower pace than your weekly group ride. Give yourself permission to enjoy the journey. Stop at the antiques store or enjoy a picnic lunch at the side of a creek. These are opportunities that don’t always present themselves when driving. Remember that you’ll be riding for more hours in a day than you’re used to. Keep your energy level up by eating small meals and snacks throughout the day. And no matter how delectable, that rich exotic gourmet meal with wine at the country inn may not be your best choice. Simple energy rich dinners will leave you feeling ready to ride the next day.

    Any trip will be better with preparation. Make sure both your body and your bike are ready for multiple days of riding. It’s not necessary to carry a lot on a bike trip but you should have a few first aid supplies and the tools and know-how to fix a flat tire. Keep your clothes simple. Plain darker colors help you blend in at your destination and hide dirt. Always bring two pairs of bike shorts so you can wash one each night. The weather can change quickly so a rain jacket is a good accessory.

    Now you’re ready to head out and ride!

    – Joyce Casey, Adventure Cycling Tour Leader

  • LET’S GET COMFORTABLE.

    My Journey to Saddle Comfort.

    Happily climbing Emerald Bay.
    Happily climbing Emerald Bay.

     

    I can vividly remember my very first rides in 1999.  I had signed up to train and ride 100 miles in Lake Tahoe, and my saddle pain seemed insurmountable. Finally, I looked at my coach and said, “I can’t do this, the pain is too intense.” He looked back at me and using his charming French accent said, “go get a saddle with a cutout and I’ll see you next week.”

    I hobbled to my bike shop and repeated the words of my coach (without the accent) and, I am happy to report, my shop put a Terry Butterfly on my bike.  Best bike upgrade ever!

    The rest is history…I rode a very comfortable 100 miles in Lake Tahoe and a few thousand more.

    A good bike fit and good, padded, breathable shorts (without your underwear) will also help you achieve saddle comfort.  I was very lucky to find a great saddle so quickly and I have great sympathy for those struggling with this endeavor.

    The moral of this story is to keep working to find the best saddle for your needs and reach out for assistance if the road gets rough.

    Tailwinds,

    Lisa Wilkes

    About Lisa: If you’ve had the pleasure of talking to a “real person” at Terry, chances are good that it may have been Lisa or one of her team. As a former bike coach and our Customer Service Manager, she’s full of personal inspiration and professional expertise when it comes to getting comfortable with saddles, choosing the right apparel, answering questions about cycling and a few other specialties that are guaranteed to help improve your attitude, if not your ride!

  • Ask A Tour Leader: What Is Your Favorite Bike Tour?

    ACA Bicycle Tour.
    Some things are better by bike – including beaches.

    As a tour leader for Adventure Cycling Association, people often ask me what my favorite bike trip is.  While that’s a bit like asking who my favorite child is, in this case the answer is easy – it’s our Introduction to Bicycle Touring out of Eugene, Oregon.

    Bicycle travel is about discovering great places at a pace that allows you to enjoy them.  This trip offers that, plus the chance to discover something about yourself.  Participants have come to challenge themselves to learn new skills and push their limits while meeting new people.  I can offer them all that, plus the chance to see one of the most beautiful areas this country has to offer.  After two days learning the ins and outs of self-contained bicycle touring, we set off for the Oregon Coast.

    First it’s up and over the Coast Range.  The climbing through the forest is tough but is rewarded by stunning Pacific Ocean views.  We camp on the beach and then ride south past Heceta Head lighthouse and the beginnings of the massive sand dunes along the south coast.  We shop and eat seafood in Florence before turning inland again.  Then it’s back over the mountains for our return to Eugene.

    In four short days on the road, this trip has it all.  Challenging climbs, sweeping descents bring stunning views.  There’s the chance to camp on the beach and eat seafood at the coast.  We top it all off with dinner at a small town restaurant with amazing pie.  What could be better?

    – Joyce Casey, Adventure Cycling Association Tour Leader

  • 2015 Terry Tent Sale.

    Annual Terry Tent Sale.

    The Annual Terry Tent Sale is upon us!
    If you are around the Burlington, VT area and want to snag some great deals –
    please join us on:
    Thursday, August 20th, 12pm – 7pm
    Friday, August 21st, 9am – 6pm
    at:
    Terry Bicycles Warehouse
    7 Ambrose Pl., Burlington, VT

    For more information please don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-289-8379.
    We hope to see you all there!

  • GEAR GUIDE: BIKING TO WORK

    [slideshow_deploy id=’2608′]

     

    Getting geared up for Bike to work week? Don’t forget these top 10 items for your ride. From an athletic friendly work top to bike cages and lights, these gadgets will make your commute the best part of your day.

    Click on the slide to find out more about any of these items. Also, if there is anything that you cannot commute without, let us know in the comment section below!

    Wishing you happy trails and a beautiful Bike Month,

    Whitney McKiddy

  • LUNCH LAUNCH.

    Tips to launch your season.

    On my first ride of the season, the goal was to be sure that “Spring” was the only thing that had sprung after a long hard winter. I gave my bike a mechanical look over, pumped my tires, lubed my chain, piled on some warm layers and headed out for a fun, easy jaunt!

    Lisa Lunch1

    A gust of wind, carrying a cloud of road dirt, quickly reminded me that I had forgotten my sunglasses; a key component for safe ride.

    Other observations included my aging shoes and cleats, my helmet has at least a year of life still on it (although a scull cap for sun protection would be a good addition), and my gloves need replacing!

    Here is a handy check list for your first spring ride and a great season:

    • Scan your bike for cracks in the frame and tires…a professional tune up is good for this too.
    • Check your seat and wheels to be sure they are well adjusted and connected.
    • Check your seat bag for basic tools (tire levers, patch kit, pump) and a spare tube.
    • Be sure your helmet is in good (no cracks) condition.
    • Wear eye protection, gloves and shoes with a stiff sole.
    • Other good things to carry include: a bottle/pack of sports drink, snacks, an ID with emergency contact information, lip balm/sun screen, lock, money, cell phone, etc.

    My first ride was sheer joy and I am looking forward to a great 2015 season!  How will you launch your season?

    Lisa Wilkes

    Lisa “Redwheels/Wheelie” Wilkes is the Customer Service Manager at Terry Bicycles and expert on all things Terry. In a past life she was an endurance cycling coach for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

  • The New Rider: I Love Cycling!

    Cycling in Vermont
    Riding in Northern Vermont is so beautiful!

    I have come to love cycling. Really! I am not just saying that because I work at Terry Bicycles. My husband and I have gone out on some really great rides together. It’s something that we can do together on our days off or when we find the time. He is new to cycling as well, so it’s a no-judgement type of thing that we can share while we get better at it and improve our overall health.

    Cycling is good for my brain in so many ways. When I was younger I was an Equestrian (Dressage specifically), so I was very fit and active riding every day. Making a large animal do movements that don’t necessarily come easily to them is a challenge, but it’s a challenge that I loved. I really miss riding horses and now that I don’t have much time and have a family it has become more difficult to find time for myself. Cycling has gotten me back into the mindset of achieving personal goals. I really love Dressage because it suits my perfectionist personality. I found while riding yesterday that cycling gives me that same feeling of accomplishment that I got from Dressage. There are certain tweaks I was making while riding and seeing immediate results. My mph speed yesterday was quite good for me and I felt great after the ride. I wasn’t sore and I felt that my position was good. All of your suggestions about sitting back in the saddle when going up hills and staying out of my drops when I get wobbly helped so much. I felt like you all were there in my head while I was riding. It’s great to feel such a connection to the cycling community already! Thank you so much for your support.

    I am almost ready to try clipping into some pedals!