Recap May 28th: *Orchard Loop / Inspiration

What a great start to the Memorial weekend!  55 strong showed up on this coolish, partly sunny day to get out and spread that positive energy and your passion for riding...kudos to all!

RECREATIONAL: Orchard Loop

Several of you were new to this route and while you found the "hill" on Longs Ave to be challenging you took it in stride and conquered.  Jacquette and Gene left the store with 22 ambitious riders but our reigns were tightened along the way with a dropped chain, loose cleat, unbalanced toppling over, not one but THREE flats (all in the same place-thank you!) and some fatiguing.  For many this 31 miler was the longest you had ridden this year, for some - the longest ever.  Next weekend will find several of you participating in E-Rock - hopefully this ride has strengthened and prepared you to better enjoy that ride.

A cyclist of many years, I look forward to these group rides to  learn why you ride, where you got your bike, when you started, what your goals are, etc.  Some shared stories from today include: recovering from severely torn knee ligaments from water skiing, torn shoulder from skiing, and a surviving non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and new dad (miracle baby)!!!  Chris' "softride" frame was a $100 purchase at Velo Swap...that guy has an eye for deals!

A huge thank you to Joann for being so familiar with our surroundings and showing us a great pit-stop off Jordan and Arapaho Road (they had crushed ice!) and a new access to the bike path off Arapahoe Road avoiding the annoying sidewalk ride amongst the high traffic.

Our hill on Longs Ave was 3 miles to the top and we had an elevation gain of 350'

...that equates to approximately a 7-8% grade...awesome job everyone!

Crazy photos can be found here: https://picasaweb.google.com/home
Please check out the ride details here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/88620514
Note: Garmin once again added my ride home...sorry...I'm Garmin challenged!

INTERMEDIATE: Inspiration Road

An exuberant 30 riders tackled Inspiration Point at an average pace of 16 mph on Saturday.  In spite of threats of rain, the weather finally cooperated which was a welcoming advantage to a good, hilly ride.  We even had a couple of women from the Wednesday nights women's only group join us to switch it up and get more miles in on the saddle.

We rolled in several waves through Cherry Creek Res, out Bronco’s Parkway, and then turned east across Parker to head up toward Inspiration point.  Jeffrey dropped a chain part way up an finished the ride with well lubed fingers.  He is claiming their still getting his new derailleur adjusted but others suggest he just hasn’t figured out how to shift that fancy new SHRAM Red groupo!  http://www.sram.com/sram/road/category/18  We only had 1 flat (amazing with such a large group), a few chains came off their track but overall no issues.

Either way, there were gorgeous views of snow covered Pikes Peak in the distance as we climbed up through the rolling hills.  We bombed down Inspiration (that's why we climb), reconnecting our spread-out bunch at the usual  “snacks and bathroom” stop.  The group returned down Jordon road, then broke up in the state park with some heading back to the shop while others did an “extra” lap around the reservoir.  All in all the group covered 35-43 miles.

"HEAD-GEAR" News

Know as the "start" of Summer...Memorial Day means so much more:

A Federal Holiday to commemorate the men and women who

died while in military service to the United States. 

First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers following the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.  Unfortunately the state-of-war is constantly on our minds and in our news as we extend our thoughts and prayers to families separated and loved ones lost due to the atrocities of "Operation Iraqi Freedom" and our hearts go out to the remaining 50,000 U.S. troops as we send strength and support and thanks for those who remain involved in "Operation New Dawn".   GOD BLESS AMERICA

Saturday Group Ride May 28th: REC-Orchard Loop / INT-Inspiration

Hope your upcoming "long" weekend plans will include a Saturday group ride with BV-Aurora!  We'll have to keep a close eye on the forecast as the (30% chance of) rain has now moved to Saturday :( 

However, we are prepared with the following:

Don't forget your supplies: hydration-fuel-spare tube-layers-ID-funds

RECREATIONAL:  A new favorite if many:  ORCHARD LOOP (35 miles) - join Jacquette and Gene through Cherry Creek Reservoir, exiting out on Gun Club Road to meander through Bronco's Parkway heading east.  We'll cross Parker Road for a short climb heading north till we cross Arapahoe and head back down the bike path along Smoky Hill and Orchard into the reservoir.


INTERMEDIATE: Jeffrey and Heidi will head this faster, stronger group out for this 41 mile INSPIRATION route through the reservoir to the 470 bike path.  From there they will cross Parker Road as they weave through the housing area to connect with Inspiration Dr before heading north to catch E Long and hook up with Broncos Parkway to retrace back to the store. http://connect.garmin.com/activity/45848829 

ADVANCED: http://bvauroraadvancedrides.blogspot.com/

BV Women's Only Group: http://www.meetup.com/BVWomenCyclists/

Recap May 21st Slaon's Lake / *Crowfoot Valley

We asked for a day without rain and we got it!

We asked you to come out and ride and you did!

With 53 riders enforce we set out, our one sacrifice for no rain...was wind.

Here's how the journeys panned out:

 RECREATIONAL: Sloan's Lake

Justin and Tom led this group of 25 strong, mixed with new faces, first timers and old friends.  Not too bad a ride out to Sloan's, the weather was pretty good (partly cloudy and in the mid to high 60's yet only one circuit was made around the lake before heading back to the store.  Mostly due to the fact that while not quite the "lake effect of Chicago" the wind really did pick up and cooled everyone down.  

Anna was new to riding and excited to learn about pedal stroke technique and climbing.  She did great on her first BV ride.  Also joining us was newcomer Matt, who had ridden a lot and done the Elephant Rock century ride before but had since fallen off and was looking to get his cycling legs back.  Lastly, Kimberly and Eric (see pic) are an engaged couple both new to road cycling.  They had bought road bikes earlier on the season and ended up riding with us for their first group ride ever!  They did an excellent job clipping in and out and rolling with the pack.

Laura is also a newer rider and was on her third ride on her new bicycle.  She works at The Medical Center of Aurora and with her seven years of service she has progressed to the manager of the department.  She is training for the MS150 this year and found out about the group rides at a clinic the MS150 held.  We wish her and her two friends the best as they continue their training...hope to see on our rides again.

INTERMEDIATE: Crowfoot Valley

Gene and Jacquette felt more in the middle of a wild horse roundup then methodically leading a cycling group as riders forged ahead, fell behind, missed stops, missed turns, had a flat or two...and more, but in the end we all made it back to the ranch safely.  Crowfoot Valley and destination Castle Rock Fire Station 155, was a new journey for most of the 26 riders that ventured out with us today.  Dan and Tony agreed it was the best restroom stop ever!  Easy enough to get to, although several routes possible, we did find ourselves regrouping more  than usual, however, we stay committed to a "no-drop group ride".

New ride leader Trish joined us as well as Michelle, friend of Jacquette's and fellow indoor cycling instructor.  Both showed the guys that "girls can ride too" and had everyone working hard to maintain pace.  Susan continued her dedicated training for upcoming Ride the Rockies.  It was great having a personal touch offered by Bianchi rep, Jonathan, along to share details about their 2011 models.  Hopefully some of you took the opportunity to take one out for a test ride that afternoon.

There were several other new riders for the season and new to Bicycle Village, that we'd like to recognize and thank, unfortunately it was difficult carrying on a conversation against the wind and names and stories were hard to come by.  Speaking of wind, our 52 miler felt more like 60 as we battled our return...pedaling...downhill!  (That's not supposed to happen)  Nonetheless, despite a bit of traffic, the wider roads offered us the riding freedom one can't get from the local bike paths and we were grateful to have pulled in a huge day...without the rain.  Great job everyone!

See your Kodak moments here: https://picasaweb.google.com/home

and check our 2,300 elevation gain/loss: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/87456955

when does the sag wagon come...?

Saturday Group Ride May 21st: REC-Sloan's Lake / INT-Crowfoot Valley

We want to see these smiling faces again this Saturday...come on out

(hopefully for some sunshine)

and a great bike ride!  See you at 9am...

Don't forget your supplies: hydration-fuel-spare tube-layers-ID-funds

RECREATIONAL:  An all time favorite - SLOAN'S LAKE - join Justin and Tom along the CC Bike path just past Confluence Park to catch 23rd continuing westbound.  Sloan's is a great area to ride around and vegetation should be really green and lush.  Depending on your energy and number of laps around the lake you should end back at the store around 30 miles.  Link can be found here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/45902423

INTERMEDIATE: Gene and Jacquette are thrilled to share this, one of their favorite rides for many years, with you.  Heading out of the CC Res on Gun Club Road we hook up with Potomac/Chambers till we stop for a refuel at Main Street and Jordan.  Then we continue south on Motsenbocker to N Crowfoot Valley for a steady climb to our turn around point at the Fire station.   Should be around 50+ miles-route link: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/48154972

ADVANCED: Blog: http://bvauroraadvancedrides.blogspot.com/

BV's ALL WOMEN'S GROUP: http://www.meetup.com/BVWomenCyclists/

Don't Miss Out...

BIANCHI CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY
Time: 9am-7pm              
Date: Saturday May21st
Location:  Bicycle Village Aurora

Details
Ø  Free pair of Bianchi Socks to the first 60 people who test ride a Bianchi
Ø  Free food and Snacks provided

Added Extra Bonus
Ø  Watch stage 14 of the Giro d’Italia on a 12 foot TV in the Bicycle Village Aurora mezzanine

JCC CELEBRATE FAMILY Bike Swap

Celebrate Family — the eighth annual free festival geared to families of children from newborn-age 8 — will add to its array of attractions a Family Bike Swap! This festival, presenting the new opportunity to give and to receive a new set of wheels

Date: Sunday May 22nd
Time: 10:30am - 2:30pm  
Location: Robert E Loupe Jewish Community Center
Web Site:
http://www.jccdenver.org/jcc-macc-news/bike-swap-tops-list-of-fun-for-children-at-jcc-celebrate-family-festival/

Recap May 14th: *Soccer Complex and Aurora Reservoir

Who would have thought that on this cloudy, brisk (44 degree) spring morning that 41 (!) riders would show up ready to give it their all...but they did and riding we went...

4 turned up for Chris' Advanced ride, 16 for the Intermediate and 21 for the Recreational...here's your highlights (or what you missed out on):

INTERMEDIATE:

Tom led Jacquette and several others amongst the 16, out for their first ride to Aurora Reservoir and back.  We left the store with a strong pace and mindful intent as we climbed up to the dam frontage road and stopped for a regroup at the West entrance.  After skirting through the reservoir, about to exit heading east, Christine realized the pace was a bit ahead of her game for the day and she waited to catch up with the Recreational Group heading to the Soccer fields.  The rest of us ventured out along Orchard, then south on Liverpool to hook up with Arapahoe Road and continue east until we connected with Powhaton Road, landing us on the backside entrance to the reservoir....didn't even know there was an entrance there!

One of our new riders was Alice, who was taking a break from a crazy week and recharging her batteries before spending the rest of the weekend with her two young boys and husband.  As weekends don't workout to well for her we hope to see her on the all women's group rides.  Darren, another first timer was out while wife Becky had the kids...they are missing babysitter Grandma, for a couple weeks so will rotate riding.  Stephen joined us again and although he's been dedicated to pursuing a pharmaceutical degree in Seattle his legs took well to the sport and his passion shined through.

A special day out at the reservoir as the $10,000(!) annual Trout Tournament was under way.  The lake and dam alike were freckled with lazy boats and camped bodies carefully eying their cast lines  awaiting that one prize bite.  Anglers will be happy to learn the area is also well known for its black bass, wiper, walleye, and yellow perch. In fact, it is rumored that Aurora could produce the next state record smallmouth bass and wiper. 

 

Reluctantly we got back on our bikes and left the break area, committed to the 8-mile trek on the concrete pathway around the lake before heading back to the store.

Although the temp readings were 45, the cold, humid air coming off the lake brought on numb extremities and we were happy to finally leave the damp, quiet area.

All went well on our return trip, Steve aided Susan on a short cut back through CC Res, and although Dawn's quads had been screaming for her to "stop" she kept pedaling onward.  Thankfully she didn't fall getting off her bike when she stopped and hopefully she enjoyed the much talked about hamburger deluxe as her reward. 

We are most pleased to point out a huge appreciation that no one had a flat...or a mechanical issue!  Might just be a first for this particular route.  Great job everyone, thanks so much for joining in and pushing strong!  Oh, almost forgot...we beat the rains by a scant 45 minutes!  See you next time...

RECREATIONAL

Jeffrey's new Trek set out on its maiden voyage today...

BV Group Riders showed dedication by coming out in the cold and threatening rain Sat in large numbers.  A strong group of 21 folks turned out for the rec ride, including three Special Olympians who rode enthusiastically.  First-timer Carrie showed up with her new hybrid and learned the importance of stocking up on spare tube and inflation supplies to avoid being stranded out on the road with a flat.  Later on during the ride, Justin was able to teach her the basics on shifting gears, which greatly improved her performance on hills.  She wore a smile the whole ride, even at the end when she was tired!

The ride was not lacking a bit of an adventure...by the time we got to the turn for Gun Club Road we were so spread out that a large middle group missed the turn.  Justin chased them down and turned them back and eventfully we all reconnected before crossing Arapahoe Rd.  One rider threw a chain climbing a steep hill and it got completely jammed, causing her to retreat back.

The group rode out to the soccer complex near Centennial airport for a nice break before heading back. It was cold, and we could see rain in the distance, temps where dropping on the way home and the group's goal was to make it as fast as possible.  All together, 26 miles and a great time!  Garmin Route here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/86375373

Enjoy some pics here: https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/webUpload?uname=bicyclevillageaurora&aid=5607083555327657361

***NEWS FLASH***

It's been brought to my attention that 5 of the Recreational riders (training for ERock) continued riding another 20 miles Saturday and then went home and rode on a trainer for a total of 80 miles!  Wow...great job everyone, you'll be smoking on the "Rock"!

Saturday Group Ride May 14th

Following are the planned rides for Saturday May, 7th.

The calendar to the left of the blog also lists future routes.

Please check frequently for changes or

add your info to our email distribution list for current details every week:

BicycleVillageAurora@Gmail.com

RECREATIONAL: Jeffrey and Justin will take this group through the CC Res and out East along Broncos Parkway looping North you will cross Arapahoe Road and connect to the bike path, heading back paralleling Orchard into the reservoir and then the store.  A great 35 mile route.  Link can be found here (mileage is incorrect): http://connect.garmin.com/activity/44698670


INTERMEDIATE: Tom and Jacquette will join this group out on a favorite out to Aurora Res and back via Orchard Road.  This will be Jacquette's first time on this particular route...chances are she will be the "sweep" ;)  http://connect.garmin.com/activity/39597564


ADVANCED Blog: http://bvauroraadvancedrides.blogspot.com/

IC3 will also be heading out from Bicycle Village's Aurora location.  Planning a 40 miler out to Meridian, a medium pace, no-drop ride, over rolling terrain, everyone is invited to join in.



Preparation for ride: jacket, proper tire pressure, extra tube and changing tools, liquids and energy snack, money...phone...camera...

Recap May 7th: Bear Creek and Meridian

What a fantastic day for riding...temps were comfortable and the wind was at a minimum.  Around 30 riders showed up despite the parking chaos due to EXPO weekend.  Chris took 5 strong Advanced riders out for a time trial at Meridian...read his blog here: http://bvauroraadvancedrides.blogspot.com/

Following are the recaps for the Intermediate and Recreational Groups:

RECREATIONAL:

Jacquette along with new ride leader Patrice, had 15 solid riders for their venture out to Meridian Park and back.  Included were 5 Special Olympics athletes training for the upcoming June Ride the Rockies.  Thanks to Patrice and her caring, willing nature as she dialed important riding techniques, adjusted saddle height and explained the benefits of clipless pedals...several will see much improvement and it will no doubt aid in their journey in June.

With no mechanical issues we enjoyed the trip out to Meridian (again a first for some) and several took more than one lap around the quite business park.  It was great seeing Chris and his his time trail group as we cheered on the racers.  A seamless ride back a few energetic souls added some mileage in Cherry Creek Park while the remainder headed back to catch some of the excitement of the Expo at the store.

Jacquette found several photo-opts so be sure and check out: https://picasaweb.google.com/bicyclevillageaurora/May72011?authkey=Gv1sRgCNTXl4XGg4OA2AE#

INTERMEDIATE:

We couldn't have custom-ordered up better weather for the ride - and 20 riders took full advantage of it on the Intermediate ride out to Morrison.  Congrats to the 3 new riders (1st timers) and then another 3 or 4 who had ridden with us last year and Saturday was their 1st group ride of the season.

Justin led and Malia swept the strong group of riders from the shop on the Cherry Creek path out to Yale on the way to connect with Dartmouth and eventually the Bear Creek trail.  Regular riders such as Shawn and Dan came out of the gates fast with their sprint legs on but had to be reigned in to regroup after an early flat at the back.  Only other mechanical issue for the day was that Paul lost a spoke on Little Dry Creek Trail- thankfully he didn't go down, but did have to end his ride a little early.  With plenty of warmth and sun the pack connected with the BCT and proceeded through the golf course to attack the climb up the Bear Lake Reservoir.  Descending down through the park, riders were motivated by a mountain bike race happening on the trails alongside the park roads.  The group was able to find shade and fuel at a Morrison gas station before rocking the climb back up Morrison Rd on the way back. The group retraced their pedal strokes home for a total of 43 great miles around and 18 mph avg pace.  Another great BV ride in the books!

A special shout out to Mark in the red jersey who joined the ride after being sick for 2 weeks.  It was his 1st ride back and he did a great job keeping with it!

Saturday Group Ride May 7th

Following are the planned rides for Saturday May, 7th.

The calendar to the left of the blog also lists future routes.

Please check frequently for changes or

add your info to our email distribution list for current details every week:

BicycleVillageAurora@Gmail.com

***PLEASE NOTE: Our Expo event will be underway on Saturday - give yourself plenty of time to park and enjoy talking with the multiple vendors setup throughout the store. 

RECREATIONAL: Jacquette and new ride leader Patrice, will head out to Meridian Park near Lincoln and E-470.  Those in training may want to increase mileage beyond the 25 planned.

INTERMEDIATE: Justin and Malia head out along another favorite route...Bear Creek Lake for approximately 42 miles roundtrip. 

ADVANCED: Blog: http://bvauroraadvancedrides.blogspot.com/

Not sure what category to ride with?  We will help you assess that at the store or read up on group descriptions to the left of our blog.

Preparation for ride: proper tire pressure, extra tube and changing tools, liquids and energy snack, sunscreen(!), money? phone? camera?

See you at 9am!