The Ultimate Guide to Bike Month NYC 2012 by Steven Schoenfarber

THE

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

BIKE MONTH NYC

AND THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO THE NEW AMSTERDAM BICYCLE SHOW

, April 28–29 Saturday & SHuudsnonday Street, NYC, 10am–7pm Skylight SoHo, 275

PRESENTED BY:

A MANHATTAN MEDIA PRODUCTION

(Above) NYC’s Biketastic Brigade: From left, Julie Hirschfeld, of Adeline Adeline; David Trimble, of the Redhook Crit/Trimble Racing; Kevin “Squid” Bolger, legendary Racer and messenger; David Volach, repair guru of Bicycle Habitat; and Susi Wunsch, editor of Velojoy.com.

$15 online, $20 at the door

PRESENTED BY:

SPONSORED BY:

PHOTO BY ANDREW SCHWARTZ

Show.com ke Bi Am w Ne at w no le sa on s et ck Ti

InsIde the 2012 new AmsterdAm BIcycle show Issue

The Show Fuels the NYC Bike Boom

By Paul Steely White elcome to the New Amsterdam Bike Show! Biking is booming in our great city. And as you and I know, this is something to celebrate. Bicycling makes our streets, our neighborhoods and our city more enjoyable. Every year for the past five years, bicycling has enjoyed double-digit growth. From the continued expansion of our bike lane network to the agreement announced last fall that will allow for the completion of the East River Greenway, more New Yorkers than ever before are biking for transportation, fun and well-being. Like no other mode of getting around, biking has the power to knit us together and make us happier. This bike boom is about to get a lot bigger. New York City will soon boast North America’s largest public bike share system, making bicycling as much a part of our city’s fabric as the crowded subway or the yellow cab. With 10,000 public bikes at hundreds of kiosks all over Manhattan and Brooklyn, more New Yorkers than ever before will discover all the joys and benefits of urban bicycling. These thousands of new bikers will also discover how much work still needs to be done to make bicycling safer and more accessible to all New Yorkers. By being part of the New Amsterdam Bike Show, you

are joining Transportation Alternatives in our growing effort to win more bike lanes, better designed bike lanes and paths and better enforcement of reckless driving. And, by coming to the New Amsterdam Bike Show and supporting the advocacy, organizing and promotional efforts of Transportation Alternatives, you are making sure that the bike share system expands to every corner of the city. Thank you for making this, the second annual New Amsterdam Bike Show, a celebration of all that bicycling has to offer our cities and ourselves. Make some new friends, check out some great new exhibits and don’t forget to fill your tank before you bike into the city sunset.

Message from the editor It’s almost impossible to cover everything happening in the transformation of New York into a premier world biking center right now. From the new Bike Share program to the latest cycling trends to stories of iconic personalities changing the face of bike riding in New York City, like Susie Wunch and David Trimble, this issue is a snapshot of where we are and where we are going. We hope you enjoy it! Allen Houston is an executive editor at Manhattan Media.

Table of Contents BIke month lIstIngs

recycle-A-BIke pg. 22

pg. 4

FInd your style pg. 7

pg. 24

BIke shArIng ProgrAm

BIke trAIn

Books on BIkes

Q&A wIth susI wunsch

pg. 14 pg. 16 Enjoy the show! Paul Steely White is executive director of Transportation Alternatives, the beneficiary organization of the 2012 New Amsterdam Bicycle Show.

trImBle’s red hook crIterIum

pg. 26

pg. 28

5 trAIls outsIde nyc

new york cycle cluB’s sIg ProgrAm

pg. 20

pg. 30 worksman cycles

“America’s Bicycle Manufacturer”™

Worksman Cycles N.Y.C. 1898

We began making our cycles in New York City in 1898. We still do. Some things are just meant to last.

The Worksman Classic Retro Cruiser: $549. NYC -built Worksman Bikes start at $319

www.worksmancycles.com Come visit us at the New Amsterdam Bicycle Show, April 28 & 29

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1887-2o12

At Raleigh we’ve never based our success by what we do today, but by how many of our bikes we continue to see on the road. That kind of passion and pride allowed us to establish a brand that has stood strong for 125 years… and counting.

HERITAGE: OUR PAST. OUR PRESENT. OUR FUTURE.

-Lugged Reynolds 520 Butted Chromoly Frame -4130 Chromoly Flat Crown Lugged Fork -Shimano 105 10spd Drivetrain -Shimano 105 Brakes

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Become a fan on Facebook! facebook.com/RaleighBicycles

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Upcoming New York City Bike Events Bike expo NYC May 3-5 pier 36—Basketball City, South & Montgomery Sts. bikenewyork.org Presented by Eastern Mountain Sports, this expo will have manufacturers including Shimano, Raleigh, Timbuk2, TrailRail and VIVA showcasing their stuff, as well as hands-on programming throughout the three-day event. Thinking about touring the country on your bike? Eastern Mountain Sports will be giving an intro course to bike touring that caters to both newcomers and experienced bikers. BE Chic, BE NY will be hosting a fashion show that will display the latest and greatest in bike gear, bike wear and bikes in general. Adding to the plethora of bike stuff will be authors David V. Herlihy and the famous Bike Snob NYC (Eben Weiss), who will be giving talks and signing their books. Since this event precedes the TD Five Boro Bike Tour, Recycle-A-Bicycle will be doing free bike repairs.

New Bike From an Old Master After the amazing benefits of steel in a cyclocross bike were realized in a typically odd conversation about landlords in the raleigh office, the new roper and Furley were born into the CX family. Designed as valuable tools not only for cross races but for commuting and trail riding, the smooth durability of steel in the landlord collection provide a simple solution for do-it-all bikers who want a do-it-all bike. For the nutty single-speeders out there who don’t see the need to change gears, the Furley is offered in the same frame as the roper and drops the extra baggage for a lighter, more nimble option. ideal for riders who enjoy minimal maintenance and the insurance they get with a steel setup, the Furley also comes with promax 720rA disc brakes and beefy Kenda tires for variety of conditions ($820).

MooNlight Ride— CeNtRal paRk May 4, 10 p.m.-12 a.m. Columbus Circle (at the intersection of Broadway, Central park South, 59th Street and Central park West) times-up.org On the first Friday of every month, Time’s Up! New York City’s direct action environmental group, takes bikers on a peaceful, approximately 10-mile ride through Central Park that begins at 10 p.m. and ends around midnight. Start off this year’s Bike Month by taking this scenic, relaxing ride through the dark in Central Park with trusty bike guides who ensure a leisurely trip infused with all the nature this great city has to offer. Grab your bikes, bring your helmets and lights (optional) and enjoy this unconventional aspect of New York City nightlife you never expected. This moonlit bike ride happens all year round, so if you miss the May foray, you can still partake on the first Friday of every month (June 6 is the next ride). May 4 is also Star Wars Day, so if you have a light saber handy, you should definitely bring it along for the ride. May the fourth be with you!

BleSSiNg of the BikeS— MoRNiNgSide heightS May 5, 9:30 a.m. St. John the divine, 1047 amsterdam ave., at 112 St. 212-316-7540

fix YouR Bike WoRkShop— BRooklYN/loWeR eaSt Side throughout May Sundays 6 p.m., Wednesday 6:30 p.m. (6th St., off Bedford avenue right under the Williamsburg Bridge)

thursday 6:30 p.m. (156 Rivington St. on the leS in the basement) times-up.org Do you have a bike but haven’t ridden it in a while because you’ve been procrastinating fixing that flat tire? Time’s Up! New York City’s direct action environmental organization, is giving everyone the opportunity to learn how to fix their own bike. Use their tools and stands while experienced mechanics stand by to answer questions and monitor your work.

td BaNk five BoRough BaNk touR May 6 Ride through all five boroughs during the TD Five Borough Bank Tour. Regular registration is closed but you can still participate in the Ride for a Reason charity event—volunteers are welcome as well. For more information, visit www.bikenewyork.org

StReet SkillS ClaSS May 16, 7-8 p.m. Bicycle habitat, 250 lafayette St., betw. prince & Spring Sts. www.bikenewyork.org Bike New York is providing this free, 90-minute crash course in what it means to be a street-smart biker. In a city like ours, the dangers of the road are obvious, with honking and screeching tires and irate cabbies hell-bent on running you over. As an interactive class, students will learn through real-life scenarios of city riding that will help them ride safely and stress-free. Certified bike instructors teach the class on the rights and responsibilities

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of bikers on the road, understanding traffic principles and various other aspects of street riding. This course will provide adults and teens with knowledge that will help them drift and swerve through traffic congestion with the grace and eye of Bobby the Urban Hawk.

Bike CoMMutiNg 101 May 17 and 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m. eastern Mountain Sports, 530 Broadway, at Spring St. bikenewyork.org Are you terrified to ride your bike through the bustling, borderline psychotic streets of New York City? Then attend Bike New York’s free, ongoing Bike Commuting 101 workshops, two of which will be held during Bike Month at Eastern Mountain Sports in Soho. The one-hour presentation will inspire and reassure bikers willing to take their horseless, two-wheeled chariots to work. This informational workshop will include tips on bike selection, bike usage, riding in daylight and darkness and other useful tips to ensure a safe and seamless ride through the streets. No biking is involved during this workshop, but there will be giveaways!

SpRiNg BRooklYN Bike JuMBle May 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 336 3rd St., Brooklyn nybikejumble.com Join the New York Bike Jumble this Bike Month for their fourth annual Brooklyn Bike Jumble at the Old Stone House in Park Slope’s Washington Park. This event is a bike flea market where vendors will be selling used bikes as well as new and used

bike accessories to all who cannot afford a $500 fixie to jumpstart their eco-friendly, economically sound biking lifestyle.

NatioNal Bike to WoRk daY May 20, 7 a.m. Give the environment a break and get some exercise all on the same day with National Bike to Work Day. Ride to work instead of driving, and pick up a free iced coffee and a bite to eat at various stations around the five boroughs. Join members of the Department of Transportation who will lead the ceremonial kickoff ride Friday, May 20 at 7 a.m. at Poe Cottage at Grand Concourse and Kingsbridge Road in The Bronx.

Bike BRooklYN BeeR Blitz 2012 May 20, 12-4 p.m. 370 Metropolitan ave., Brooklyn levysuniqueny.com Expand your knowledge of New York City’s alcohol production by taking a $25, four-hour bike tour of Williamsburg, East Williamsburg and Bushwick. Levy’s Unique New York tour guides will take riders on a biking excursion into the city’s brewing neighborhoods. Riders will compare brewing buildings from their original, 1880s-1920s build to how they currently stand and function in these historic neighborhoods. The $25 fee includes a midtour pit stop at Matt Tourney’s for a quick brew, then it’s back on the road again. Aside from the breweries, the tour will also include a look at German churches, banks and social halls. So BYOBike and RSVP to Matt@levysuniqueny.com. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com. N Y press.co m

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Asking the

Bike Experts

e asked a few of the vendors in this year’s New Amsterdam Bicycle Show all sorts of cycling questions—everything from tips on buying bikes and accessories to advice for the next mayor and suggestions to ease tensions with pedestrians. On the last one, someone advised, “Make contact, smile and say hello.” Phil MarMet Office/sales Manager, aBUs MOBile secUrity, inc. What is the most essential bike accessory and the best splurge item? The most essential bike accessory for New York City would be a good lock— without your bike, there is no place to mount the other cool accessories you can find at the New Amsterdam Bicycle Show. What is the best lock/ security system to use? Do any of the less expensive ones give you good security? I would recommend the high-security locks from ABUS. Chains like the Granit City Chain 1060 and 1010 offer excellent N Y P re ss.com

protection from even the most extreme attacks, and the Bordo Granit X-Plus and U-54 U-lock are great security options as well. I use a Bordo Granit X-Plus in Chicago.

Imported by: Grolsch Importers, Washington DC

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ElaynE FowlEr MarkEting dirEctor, ElEctra BicyclE coMpany what bikes do you recommend for daily commuters, casual riders and the fitness-focused in new york city? Electra has 5 collections of bicycles that are appropriate for New York City—uptown, downtown, crosstown, over the bridge and Central Park riding. Your choice depends on your personality, style preference and functional needs. Verse is a stylish, lightweight aluminum 700c fitness and everyday transportation bicycle that you can easily add accessories to customize for your specific needs. It comes in 21- and 24-speed. Ticino is designed with the heritage enthusiast in mind; it’s a lightweight aluminum 700c bicycle with artisan craftsmanship attention to detail. It’s offered in variety of gearing options—1, 7-, 8- and 20-speed. Amsterdam is a lightweight aluminum 700c elegantly updated Dutch city bike. Sophisticated fashion and classic designs evolved with modern components to provide practical and stylish transportation, while patented Flat Foot Technology sets the standard in comfort and control. Townie is a lightweight aluminum frame with 26- and 24-inch wheels. It combines the industry innovation of patented Flat Foot Technology with a completely different ride experience, setting the standard in comfort and control. Cruiser has aluminum and steel frames with 26- and 24-inch wheels. It’s a modern interpretation of all-American classic, bursting with personality and Electra’s coveted patented Flat Foot Technology providing additional comfort and control. who is best suited for electric bikes? do people ever have to overcome a “guilt factor” before getting one? Electric bikes are a good option for those who need a little boost to help them on their ride. They’re also a good option if you don’t want to get as sweaty during a ride. However, they are fairly expensive and heavy—you don’t want to bring one up five flights of stairs in a walk-up—but they definitely do have a market. N Y P re ss.com

what are the advantages of a cruiser bike and what types of riders tend to like them best? Cruisers are simple and sturdy and are a great option for riders looking for a fun and comfortable way to get around. Some cruiser models are inexpensive, making them a smart choice for those with limited budgets. what advice do you have for riding in new york city? Always be alert and be familiar with your surroundings. Always wear a helmet, follow the rules of the road and use good lighting if riding at night. what’s your favorite biking trend? The increased popularity of urban cycling in general. More and more people are turning to cycling as an everyday transportation solution. is there anything bikers should do to ease tensions with pedestrians? Make contact, smile and say hello. Also, follow the rules of the road and be a courteous cyclist. what is the most essential bike accessory and the best splurge item? A helmet is the most essential bike accessory. A cycling-specific smart phone app, such as Strava, makes for a fun way to log and review your ride. And a stylish pair of quality sunglasses is always a nice accessory for a ride. what is the best lock/security system to use? do any of the less expensive ones give you good security? Buy the lock that best suits your budget and needs—and don’t skimp. You’re better off buying one step better in a lock for enhanced security.

468 Bergen St. 718-857-7433 www.ridebrooklynny.com Ride Brooklyn is New York City’s fastest growing bike shop. Ride Brooklyn’s top priority is the customer’s experience, whether seasoned racer or rst time commuter. Be sure to drop by Ride Brooklyn's booth at The New Amsterdam Bike Show!

do some bikers relax too much in bike lanes? what should they be on the lookout for? Even though you may be in a bike lane, always be aware of your surroundings. Be on the lookout for illegally parked cars, pedestrians and any other potential hazards. Ap r i l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2 • ULT I MAT E GUI DE T O B I KE MONT H NYC • 9

w w w. n e w a m s t e rd a m b i c y c l e s . c o m D u tc h & E u r o p E a n B i c yc l E s & a c c E s s o r i E s

Ryan Zagata PResident, BRooklyn CRuiseR

Introducing the eco2bike—the world’s most earth-friendly bicycle!

What bikes do you recommend for daily commuters, casual riders and the fitness-focused in new york City? Two words come to mind for daily commuters: comfort and durability. You want a bike that you feel physically and emotionally good riding, but also a bike that will stand up to the rigors of your daily commute. We advise internal gearing systems and are also partial to coaster brakes, which tend to be a bit more weather agnostic. If your commute is more than 10 miles, a lightweight, multigeared bike might keep you from being sweaty and exhausted when you get to work. If you have a short commute, I’d advise riding something that keeps your clothes clean and you feel happy and comfortable riding. It’s always awkward seeing a man in a business suit hunched over a racing bike with all his tailored garments stretched to their limit. Casual riders should choose something they think they looks good on and reflects their ability or casualness. Fitness-focused New Yorkers don’t have much time, so they like to get in a good workout as quickly as possible. If you’re going to do laps in Central Park or Prospect Park, make it your own personal Velodrome. Get yourself a track bike—it’s said that a 30-mile ride on a track bike is the equivalent to a 50-mile ride on a geared bike.

What are the advantages of a cruiser bike and what types of riders tend to like them best? The cruiser is pure cycling joy. It’s what we felt the first time we shed our training wheels and experienced the freedom of independent rolling. The cruiser doesn’t care about speed or performance; it allows the rider to simply experience the world as it rolls steadily by without thinking too much about handling the bike. What’s your favorite biking trend? The trend playing itself out here in New York and in other cities across the globe: that cities are slowly accepting is that cycling is going to be a major form of transportation and they are making accommodations for that. I think it’s starting to affect who is getting on a bike in the city. It’s not just the cycling diehards— I mean honestly, my grandparents ride bikes too.

“all the next mayor needs to do is retain Janette sadik-khan as commissioner of dot—she gets it, she really gets it.”

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is there anything bikers should do to ease tensions with pedestrians? Obey all traffic laws—this includes riding with traffic, stopping at stop signs and red lights and looking both ways before turning. Stay alert; never assume drivers or pedestrians can see you or hear you. What is the most essential bike accessory and the best splurge item? I’ll just assume everyone wears helmets, so beyond that, lights, front and back—get them. Splurge on nice wheels; they say a half a Continued on page 12 N Y press.co m

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From page 10 pound off your wheel set feels like a full pound off your frame. What are the latest trends in helmets? How do you make sure you are wearing them properly? I think ergonomics have come a long way in helmets; right now we are spinning wheels and pulling straps that make it feel like there is a little tailor running around inside your helmet. Helmets are becoming more fashionable, too, from flashy glitter helmets to tweed caps that look like you should be mounting a horse for polo. I have seen many times helmets worn backwards—I appreciate the comic effect, but you’re compromising your safety. Make sure the straps are tight enough to keep the helmet on your head if thrown from the bike, but just loose enough not to choke you. What is the best lock/security system to use? Do any of the less expensive ones give you good security? I’ll always say the best security system is to take your bike inside with you—it prevents

exposure to the elements and deters the unsavory characters on the street. If you do leave it on the street, be certain that both wheels and the frame are locked to a steadfast holding. A cable lock is going to be good for a minimal amount of time in a well-trafficked area, otherwise, it’s virtually useless in stopping an able thief. Do some bikers relax too much in bike lanes? What should they be on the lookout for? We have seen this on occasion, the same way some drivers get a bit too relaxed. We encourage riders to treat bike lanes no differently than if they are driving a vehicle: obey traffic laws and ride defensively, always assuming that others do not see you. The next mayor may not be as bike-friendly as the current administration. What should he or she know about urban biking and what’s the next step New York City should take? All the next mayor needs to do is retain Janette Sadik-Khan as commisioner of DOT— she gets it, she really gets it.

Julie HirsCHFelD OWNer, ADeliNe ADeliNe, 147 reADe sT. What bikes do you recommend for daily commuters, casual riders and the fitnessfocused in New York City? For commuters we recommend any bike with fenders and a chain guard. Personally, I prefer a more upright ride. It’s much more comfortable in street clothes and it makes you more visible to traffic. We are big fans of Pashley, Linus and Bobbin. What advice do you have for riding in New York City? Ride defensively and enjoy the view. What’s your favorite biking trend? Small-wheeled bikes. They evoke ’60s cool and are easy to ride and easy to store. is there anything bikers should do to ease tensions with pedestrians? Stop riding on the sidewalk. Not riding against a light through pedestrian traffic would help, too. What is the most essential bike accessory and the best splurge item? Essential: sadly, a lock. The best splurge item is the Brooks Millbrook leather bicycle bag. What are the latest trends in helmets? How do you make sure you are wearing them properly? We focus on simple skate-style helmets in neutral colors. We also carry Yakkay from Denmark, which looks more like a hat than a helmet. A helmet should fit snugly enough that it doesn’t move around on its own, but not so snug that it gives you a headache. What is the best lock/security system to use? I’m a big fan of Abus locks. They’re very well-made and easy to use. In New York City 1 2 • ULTI MATE GU IDE T O BIK E M O N T H N YC • Apri l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2

we recommend either a U-lock or a heavyduty chain lock—these are not for the faint of heart. Do some bikers relax too much in bike lanes? What should they be on the lookout for? Being overly relaxed is not how I think of the typical New Yorker. Mostly, I look out for cars in the bike lane. The next mayor may not be as bike-friendly the current administration. What should he or she know about urban biking and what’s the next step New York Cityshould take? We need a continued focus on infrastructure and safety. There is no reason New York City shouldn’t be a fantastic biking city. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com. N Y press.co m

212 544 7055

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Bike Share Starts July—You Ride It, City Stores It By Laura Shin Small groups of Upper West Side residents recently huddled around maps of their neighborhood and discussed where they believed would be the best locations for bike stations, hitting city streets this July with the launch of the NYC Bike Share program. “I think the bike share is wonderful and way overdue,” said Michael Rosenthal, a cyclist of 46 years who attended the planning workshop. Announced last September, NYC Bike Share will bring 600 stations and 10,000 bikes to Manhattan and Brooklyn. Users will be able to pick up a bike from any of the self-service stations, ride it around and return it to any station within 24 hours. “Let’s say you take the subway to work. It’s a beautiful day out and you want to ride a bike back home. With Bike Share, you can do that,” Nina Haiman, a city Department of Transportation (DOT) representative, said at the workshop. The program will be run by Alta Bicycle Share and funded entirely by user fees and private sponsors. Since the program’s announcement, DOT and Alta have hosted numerous demonstrations and planning workshops around the city. Each community board included in the bike share program had its own workshop where community members were invited

to offer their input on which sidewalks or streets they would like to see a bike station. The Upper West Side Community Planning Workshop was the last of 13 workshops. Alison Cohen, president of Alta, said there are many reasons why New York is a great city for a bike share. “There are tons of opportunities to shave minutes off of short commutes that are not well connected by public transit, such as the crosstown trip in Manhattan,” she said. “The city is flat and densely populated, and most people don’t have space in their apartments to store bikes,” she added. NYC Bike Share will offer annual, weekly and 24-hour memberships. No matter which you choose, the first 45 minutes of every trip is free, Haiman said. After your 45 minutes are up, you will be charged a rate based on the type of membership. Scott Gastel, a DOT spokesman, said the most common question New Yorkers ask is what happens when there are no bicycles available at a station. The station kiosks will offer real-time availability of

bikes at nearby stations, Gastel said. Bike Share’s website and smart phone app will also offer real-time information on bike and station availability. One concern raised at the workshop was the fact that Bike Share would not offer helmets. “I’m worried it might encourage people to ride without helmets,” said Rosenthal, who added that he might not be alive today if it weren’t for helmets. Haiman explained that there is currently no safe, hygienic way to offer shared helmets, but that Bike Share will strongly encourage riders to wear helmets and refer them to nearby bike shops where they can buy one. Bike Share will cover Manhattan up to 79th Street and reach into parts of Brooklyn. If it is successful, it will expand to other parts of the city, Haiman said. And while the planning process for choosing locations has been very thorough, the stations can be easily moved if a location doesn’t work out, Haiman said. The solarpowered stations only take 20 minutes to install and require no digging or roadwork.

“The city is flat and densely populated, and most people don’t have space in their apartments to store bikes.”

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A workshop to prepare for the bike show program. PHOTO COURTESY OF DOT

As for the bikes, they will have stepthrough frames, three speeds, front and rear LED lights that are constantly on for safety and an adjustable seat. New Yorkers can check out the bikes at an open house hosted by the DOT May 5 at the Grand Central Library from 2-4 p.m. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

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Books on Bikes By Anam Baig

Bike SnoB nYC, The enlighTened CyClisT Bike Snob NYC has long looked at the New York cycling scene through his own unique lense of humor and betterment. His new book deflates some of the traditional smugness associated with biking in the city and the joys and dangers of bike commuting in the city. Your first book, Bike snob, was more about the history of biking and encouraging new riders. What are you trying to achieve in The enlightened Cyclist that you didn’t in that book? My first book was about cycling in general, whereas this book focuses specifically on commuting and all the joy, frustration and controversy that comes along with it. I’m trying to encourage practical cycling and inject it with some much-needed humor to counteract all the smugness often associated with it. How do you think a city like new York can transition from horses and cars to bikedom? Amsterdam wasn’t built for cars or bikes, and they seem to do all right. To me

it’s not about transitioning to “bikedom” so much as it is about incorporating all the ways people get around into the way the streets are designed. We already have bikedom. Sure, there are lots of new riders, but there have also been lots of people riding bikes here ever since the time they were first invented. We just need the infrastructure to finally reflect that, which has started to happen.

GrAnt PeterSon, JusT Ride: A RAdiCAlly PRACTiCAl guide To Riding youR Bike Grant Petersen, founder and owner of Rivendell Bicycle Works in Walnut Creek, Calif., is the author of Just Ride: A Radically Practical Guide to Riding Your Bike. The book will come out this May, during New York City Bike month. The eight-part guidebook covers everything from riding to safety to the biking philosophy known as “velosophy.” What encouraged you to write this tellall, back-to-basics guidebook? I think people don’t just ride their bike for fun or recreation or for the right reasons. Bike riding is really fun, but it can become more of a job if you get caught up in the trappings of bike racing and com-

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petitions, of riding harder and longer. Pros don’t ride practical bikes; in fact, they ride really specialized and refined bikes that are quite impractical for just riding. And these bikes have become the default choice for the middle-aged man who starts riding a bike and has the money to buy those bikes. It’s not a good choice and I will defend that to my death. Any pastime, certainly any that requires equipment, has the inevitability to get weird. Riding is more about having fun with a bike and using it in your life as warranted. What is your message to bikers in your book? Navigate around the racer-centric messages that are out there in the media and bike shops. There tends to be this idea once you’ve settled in as a bike rider that you need to start ramping it up, riding longer or harder, and that those kinds of rides are qualitatively better, but those rides would give anyone numb crotch. The most concise way to say my message is to just mellow out a little bit, not just for the sake of mellowing out but changing your relationship with the bike, feeling less bossed around and riding on your own terms. Not my terms. Certainly not racing terms.

Steven reA: hollywood Rides A Bike: CyCling wiTh The sTARs What started as a Tumblr blog, “Rides a Bike,” images of Hollywood stars riding bikes, has turned into a 160-page hardcover book of more than 125 vintage images. Author and movie critic Steven Rea has painstakingly unearthed photographs that show our most beloved old-time stars, Continued on page 17

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From page 16 such as Rita Hayworth, Paul Newman, Robert Montgomery and Doris Day, both in and out of costume, candid or posed, riding bikes. These black-and-whites of gorgeous stars on beautifully crafted tandems, cruisers, roadsters and more, delight movie lovers and bike lovers and provide a glimpse into bike mania of yesteryear with that Hollywood haze. What inspired you to start collecting these images and compile a book of them? Well, my two greatest passions are movies and biking. So a few years ago, I started to collect photographs of movie stars on bikes. To find Humphrey Bogart or Veronica Lake on a bike was a pleasure for me, so I started collecting these photographs from Jerry Ohlinger’s in midtown, movie cards, Hollywood memorabilia and even eBay. What is the appeal of these images? Why do people want to see these old stars riding bikes? They are a lot of people into old cinema, vintages, Turner Classic and Film Forum; likewise, there are people into bikes who are into vintages bikes. There’s also this whole cycle chic movement, where people are riding bikes in clothes that look like they’re going to a cocktail party. These photos represent that glamor. The stars are wearing out-of-costume regular clothes or in some cases they’re actually in costume riding bikes between takes. I find this element of chic and coolness really charming. This all started as a Tumblr blog, and now I have 500 followers, and when I look at their Tumblr blogs, a lot of them are kids, sort of the Urban Outfitters wearing kind, definitely a lot of hipsters. But even if you don’t know the complete filmography of Gary Cooper, you know, there’s something cool about looking at their images riding a bike. And also, it couldn’t make me happier if people checked out the movies. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

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Book Signing Area

Bikelandia

(Seminars & Lectures)

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ERDAM BICYCLE SHOW BIKELANDIA EVENT SCHEDULE (Please note: Amazing bicycles, accessories and raffle prizes will be given away by our exhibitors and sponsors in between speakers and panels. Be sure to sign up at participating booths and check in for the results)

SPONSORED BY BICYCLING MAGAZINE SATURDAY, APRIL 28

Emcee: Allen Houston, executive editor of NYPress.com and the Manhattan Media Newspaper Group.

11 a.m.: Clarence Eckerson Jr., founding director of Streetfilms, will show a selection of videos from Streetfilms’ 450-film collection and share secrets about making NYC a world-class biking city. 12 p.m.: Loredana Costantino, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Taking “social” to new heights) director of marketing and e-commerce, talks about

the many travel benefits for cyclists going abroad on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. 1 p.m.: Steven Rea, Philadelphia Inquirer film critic and author of Hollywood Rides a Bike: Cycling With the Stars, pays an affectionate visual homage to two of the author’s great passions—classic movies and classic bicycles. (Followed by a book signing in the back of BIKELANDIA) 2 p.m.: The New Am Bike Fashion Show in BIKELANDIA! See the bikes, the bags, the lights and helmets and how real NYC cyclists utilize them with ease and style. Featured items

36 35

Main Floor

Hudson Street

4 p.m.: The Bike Snob—New York City’s own, fresh from a nationwide book tour—will put on a book-related appearance to promote his latest book, The Enlightened Cyclist. (Book signing will take place at the Brooks booth, #00, after his presentation) 5 p.m.: The State of NYC Racing, moderated by Kevin “Squid” Bolger with panelists David Valloch, Ann Marie Miller and J.D. Eustice, plus other surprise racing guests. This panel will be intense…just like the races discussed. 6 p.m.: Stunning films by director Daniel Leeb, CEO/chief creative officer of Cinecycle. Leeb directed The Perfect Circle, a short film featuring Matthew Modine—another New Amsterdam Bicycle Show friend. Leeb also captures and shares experiences such as Brooklyn’s own exhilarating night race, Red Hook Crit 2012, as well as many other cycling events in NYC.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 29 Emcee: Matt Levy 12 p.m.: “Bike Share Sneak Peak with Brooklyn Spoke.” Doug Gordon, the editor of BrooklynSpoke.com, presents a sneak preview of New York City’s new bike share system. Representatives from the New York City Department of Transportation and the people behind Bike Share will talk about their plan to put 10,000 bicycles and 600 stations in Manhattan and Brooklyn this summer. 1 p.m.: Grant Peterson, owner of Rivendell Bike Works (some of the most beautiful rides on the planet), will discuss his latest book Just Ride: A Radically Practical Guide to Riding Your Bike. Peterson says he wrote the book “to point out what I see as bike racing’s bad influence on bicycles.” This presentation promises to be a thought-provoking New Am crowd-pleaser. 2:30 p.m.: Ben Fried, editor-in-chief of Streetsblog, will share the scoop about how Streetsblog makes an impact through effective advocacy journalism. 3:30 p.m.: Sarai Snyder, editor-inchief of Girlbikelove.com and founder of CycloFemme, will present “Women in Cycling—A Revolution in Motion.”

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3 p.m.: Bicycling magazine’s Matt Seaton, author of “Bike Lane Backlash,” Will discuss the critical issue of cyclist behavior, based on his feature in Bicycling’s May issue.

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Four Bike Adventures Just Outside New York City Morgan Lake. Enjoy 12 miles of educational points of interest and wildlife found along the trail. Take a break at the bridge over at Sprout Creek, filled with trout every year. Are you a cycling aficionado without a car? Check out the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. This 10-mile trail begins at the Wassaic train station, accessible from Metro-North on the Harlem Line. Bring your bikes from New York City and hit the trail. For information, visit dutchesstourism.com.

Quality, Comfort, Style

orange County Columbia County

Defining the very nature of boarding a bicycle in the easiest manner possible, relaxed in attitude and comfortable by nature, the Biria is the original and authentic “Easy-Boarding”

Columbia County, located just two hours north of Manhattan, is easily accessible by car or train (Metro-North to Wassaic). Meandering country roads offer the cyclist breathtaking views of unsurpassed rural beauty. Several trails are available on the Columbia County Tourism website, but here’s one of the favorites: Copake Falls to Ancramdale, in the southeastern part of the county. Begin your ride in Copake Falls—Bash Bish Bike Shop is nearby where bikes for all ages are available for rent. The ride is characterized by mostly country roads and a few hightraffic sections with no real steep hills; the toughest hill is at South East Ancram Road and is 130 vertical feet of climbing. The 23-mile ride past some of the prettiest farmland in the county has gentle to moderate hilliness but can be shortened to an even gentler 11-mile version or 8 miles of nearly flat terrain. Stop for lunch in Ancramdale or Copake, hamlets with characteristic charm, or finish your ride with a swim at Taconic State Park or a hike to beautiful Bash Bish Falls. For more information, visit columbiacountytourism.org.

Old world chic styling intersects modern technology to provide the optimum ride

DutChess County

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Dutchess County is about an hour and a half drive or train ride on Metro-North from New York City. Nestled in the center of the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County has many bike routes that showcase the scenic beauty of the Hudson River. There are six suggested bike ride itineraries through different sections of the county. The Dutchess Rail Trail and the Harlem Valley Rail Trail allows cyclists to ride through the scenic routes that people in Dutchess County adore. But first, kickstart your day watching the sunrise on the Walkway Over the Hudson. The Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie has been a popular state park since it opened in 2009. Cyclists are invited to ride across the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world at 1.28 miles. When you are finished, head over to the Dutchess Rail Trail. The Dutchess Rail Trail allows cyclists to travel southeast from Poughkeepsie at

Biking trails of every stripe can be found in Orange County. The Heritage Trail offers riding on a paved rail trail for 12 miles through scenic villages and farmland. Expert riders may prefer the paved roads that wind through Bear Mountain State Park. These byways are shared with cars, but are not major roads. Stewart State Park offers a bit more adventure for mountain bikers along dirt paths that were once residential streets. The park is off-limits to vehicles, so riders are left to pedal on these well-marked, now unpaved roads through the scenic foliage, wetlands and waterways. Views over the Hudson can be seen from the protected path on the Newburgh/Beacon Bridge. The dedicated path is also open to pedestrian traffic. Last summer, Route 218 around Storm King Mountain was closed to vehicular traffic on Sundays for hikers and bikers. The road is carved out of the face of the mountain and offers expansive views of the Hudson River. We’re expecting this route to open again as a trail, but it has not been confirmed. Accomplished bicyclists can navigate it on their own without the closing, but should be aware that this is a winding, narrow road. For more information, visit orangetourism.org.

WestChester County Since 1974, Westchester County residents have enjoyed the popular Bicycle Sundays program that opens a 6.5-mile stretch of the historic Bronx River Parkway to bicyclists and other non-motorized use on a series of Sundays each year. Bicycle Sundays will commence this year on May 6 at the County Center in White Plains. No motorized vehicles are permitted. The Bicycle Sundays route is a 13.1mile round trip from the Westchester County Center in White Plains to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers. Bicycle Sundays are held in May, June and September, with the exception of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Participants travel through White Plains, Hartsdale (a hamlet in the Town of Greenburgh), Scarsdale, Eastchester, Tuckahoe and Yonkers as they complete the Bicycle Sundays route. For more information, visit friendsofwestchesterparks.com. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com. N Y press.co m

Which Tribe Do You Belong To? Whether they know it or not, cyclists belong to bike tribes. And, as strange as some of the tribes may seem, members of every tribe are curious about the others. From commuters and road racers to tattooed messengers and mountain bikers, Bike Tribes is a light-hearted romp that breaks down and classifies the various subcultures of the cycling community— uniting cyclists through their shared, abiding love of bikes. AVAILABLE MAY 22, 2012

N YNew_Am_BT.indd P re ss.com

www.rodalebooks.com

Apr i l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2 • ULT I MAT E GUI DE T O B I KE MONT H 3/30/12 NYC 5:36 • PM 21

Overhauled with Care The behind-the-scenes process of refurbishing a bicycle at Recycle-A-Bike

Photos & Text by Veronica Hoglund s the weather continues to get warmer, there is no question that most of us will be spending our free time outdoors soon. With that in mind, now might be the perfect time to invest in the bicycle you know you’ve been wanting. I decided to check out the wares at Recycle-A-Bike (75 Ave. C, betw. 5th & 6th Sts.), located in the East Village. The cycle technicians at the shop take old, worn bicycles and give them a facelift, providing you with a beautiful, fully functional refurbished bike while creating no new waste in the process—a process that takes only four hours to complete. The bike first comes to the shop as a donation, usually bikes that have been sitting in basements or have been left behind by former building tenants. “The bikes just need a little love,” manager Patrick Tomeny told me. Recycle-A-Bike has been providing a vast variety of New Yorkers with recycled bicycles since 1994, in addition to facilitating youth programs in and around New York City.

From the moment you walk into the shop, it is clear how meticulous the process of refurbishing a bicycle can be. The tiny shop is packed with tools, parts and various pieces of equipment. As the Recycle-A-Bicycle team prepares to tackle their latest project, a vintage Schwinn World Tourist, they begin by taking apart the bicycle and wiping down the various parts. As staff member Brendon Brogan explains, the team does an “overhaul” of the bike, completely disassembling it to “guarantee the quality of the bike.” Bear in mind though, about 85 percent of the refurbishing process is simply cleaning, which mainly consists of wiping it down with a concentrate of water and Simple Green. Though much more complicated than the guys make it appear, the bike is pulled apart piece by piece, screw by screw. In what seems like an instant, all that is remaining is the bicycle frame. Once everything has been disassembled, it’s time to rebuild the bike. First, each part is given all the way from the bicycle chain to the handlebars—is given a good clean. When able, parts used are taken from the original bicycle and are replaced only when necessary. Then, the many parts are reassembled, using fresh grease to get the bicycle moving the way it should. After a long four hours, a onceexhausted bike has been transformed into one ready for the streets. A set of refurbished Recycle-A-Bike wheels will set you back $250-$350 dollars, but considering the care and love put into these pieces, it is well worth the price. 2 2 • ULTI MATE GU IDE T O BIK E M O N T H N YC • Apri l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2

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The Man Behind Red Hook’s Criterium Race By Noah Wunsch David Trimble is a Red Hook pioneer, looking to build the community up and out. However, he’s not heavily engrained in the political side of things, nor is he looking to be. Trimble is a cyclist whose Red Hook Criterium race has drawn attention to the athletic, artistic and artisanal offerings of Red Hook. David has been surrounded by bikes his entire life. His father and uncle built bike frames for a living for the family company, Trimble Aero Cycle. It took David a few years to recognize the family offerings, first getting his taste of competitive racing as a 12-year-old kart driver. Due to sparse sponsorship funds, Trimble was forced to retire his helmet in 2003. After two years of malaise, he sought comfort in the form of a bicycle and hasn’t looked back since. Moving to New York City, Trimble started participating in Alleycat Races, which force bikers to use the city as their race strip and obstacle course. Dodging cars and pedestrians is part of the field. So did the Red Hook Criterium start in the hope of glorifying this underground race scene? No. It started as a birthday party.

“It was a way to bring my bike racing friends together to celebrate my birthday,” said Trimble. “Normally, they’re in bed by 10 p.m. and up at 5 a.m. to race in Central Park. There’s no way to bring them all out unless personal glory is in line.” Since the race began in 2008, it has drawn more attention each year. This year will see its European inception in Milan and, soon to come, Berlin. The race is unique in that it’s an unsanctioned criterium, is held at night and it involves track bikes, which do not have brakes and require constant pedaling. “The track bikes on a technical course make it totally different,” he said. “It changes the race dynamic. It makes it very exciting. Rather than an open peloton, where you can’t see what’s going on, it’s spread out— very spectator-friendly. The setting is spectacular. It’s a post-industrial neighborhood right on the water.” The format of the race also makes it more biker-friendly. “There’s always one or two small crashes,” Trimble said. “By making it more technical and difficult, it makes it safer. There’s a bigger separation between the skilled rider and the amateur. Rather than a 30-rider pile-up, it might be a two-

“I’ve always considered it a performance art piece.”

bike crash.” The laid-back vibe of the race offers spectators a look at competitive cycling in a lax party atmosphere, while spurring the racers into a competitive frenzy. Fixedgear racing is dangerous because racers can go faster than when they have brakes, but fixed-gear racing at night is just plain crazy. “There are so many spectators now,” said Trimble. “Only a small percentage are hardcore cyclist fans. It’s a cross secDavid Trimble is the founder of the Red Hook Criterium. tion of the Brooklyn and PHOTO BY BOW COBIN Manhattan crowd.” This year’s track was lined with art pieces major international cities. “Milan is definitely going to happen around every bend. “Artists see how visually interesting the race is and want to create October 13. Berlin, we’re in the early stages art around it,” Trimble added. “I’ve always of planning,” he said. “We need sponsorconsidered it a performance art piece. The ships to get the races going, but we have Red Hook art scene has really grown as well. the course set. In the future, our dream is to Being a part of that community will really have three races in Europe, three in America and then a championship and a world final cater the race to a new audience.” This year Trimble has also signed on in a city that could change every year.” The only thing that remains stationa number of local sponsors for the race, hoping to call more attention to local busi- ary in this race is Trimble’s support for Red nesses in Red Hook. Future plans for the Hook. Criterium include expanding it to more For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

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Apr i l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2 • ULT I MAT E GUI DE T O B I KE MONT H NYC • 2 5

Biking Pair Says ‘All Aboard’ on Group Commutes By Sean Creamer Biking in New York City has grown immensely in the past few years. It’s common to see a few lone cyclists mounted upon their bikes at a stoplight, as if they were riding in the Old West. While cycling alone is an activity that can soothe the mind and invigorate the body, it can also be daunting when you are just starting out on the pothole-ridden roads of New York City. This is why Kimberly Kinchen and Kim Burgas created the bike train, a collection of cyclists who mimic a subway route and create an environment where people can ride in good company and help new riders. Both recall that when they began cycling in the city, it was an ominous trek but they eventually felt comfortable on the bustling streets. The two joined efforts when they met and realized they were working on the same project from different angles. Kinchen moved to New York from Seattle 10 years ago; she was a cyclist there, but only started riding in New York City about a year ago. Soon, she began her own bike train project after seeing how successful it was in places like Portland, Ore., and Ontario. Burgas began cycling in her hometown of Cincinnati. Once she moved to New York City, she too was fearful, but after a while

Kimberly Kinchen and Kim Burgas created bike train, a safer way to travel the city.

she warmed up to the busy streets and began commuting to work. Her inspiration for a bike train began when her office workers would ask, “How do you manage to get to work on a bike?” She responded that they should join her on the road. The pair envisioned cyclists connecting via the Internet and meeting up for rides

that follow the bike lanes in Manhattan. It is a way to break down the silence between riders at red lights and meet like-minded people who, Burgas said, “Will never ask you to explain why you rode to work in ‘that weather.’” They hope to create a public forum welcoming riders from all walks of life and

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frame size, from the fixed-gear enthusiast to the parent with a child seat strapped to the back. They consider themselves the creators of a friendly bike gang. Earlier this year, Burgas and Kinchen developed two routes: Inwood to Midtown and Prospect Park to Midtown East. Each of the “lines” runs periodically and has a conductor, either Burgas or Kinchen. They remain in contact with riders via smart phones and Twitter using the hashtag #bikenyc. “Some days it’s Kim and I,” said Kinchen. “Other days there are much more people.” Burgas said there are generally about 15 people in the group. While there are only two routes so far, the duo are currently planning expansions to have other operational routes for the month of April. They are also developing an application so riders can connect easily via their smart phones. As the group grows in size, “the logistical problem grows,” said Kinchen, echoing one of Burgas’ concerns. “The main thing is that people get in touch so that we know to wait for them.” Burgas said that because of her background in technology, she was apprehensive at first about developing further, “but in this case it will help out a lot to have this app.” For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

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Apr i l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2 • ULT I MAT E GUI DE T O B I KE MONT H NYC • 2 7

BIKE BROOKLYN BEER BLITZ! A 4 hr Bike Tour of Bklyn’s Former Breweries! May 20th, 12’to 4pm. A 4 hour bicycle tour of Williamsburg, East Williamsburg and Bushwick and the former brewery buildings of the most densely packed brewing neighborhoods in America, circa 1890! See historical photographs of various brewery buildings when they were built, between the 1880s and 1920s, compare them with vintage 1970s photos (in the heart of Bushwick’s deep dark arson-and-gangs era) and observe them as they stand today, re-purposed but obviously the same brewery buildings. German Churches, banks and social halls will also be observed. The tour will end at Evergreen Cemetery on the Brooklyn/Queens border, where many of the Brewers are buried . . . with a surprise! $30, includes 1 beer! A historical, educational, beerdrinkable adventure! BYOBike and helmet. For more info: Matt@levysuniqueny.com Also available for private tours.

2 8 • ULTI MATE GU IDE T O BIK E M O N T H N YC • Apri l 1 9 , 2 0 1 2

Blogger Tries to Put More Women on a Pedal (Actually, Two) By Ashley Welch ew York City resident Susi Wunsch runs the bicycling blog velojoy.com, where she writes about the latest biking news, features new bike accessories and shares her experiences as a cyclist in the city. We recently spoke with her about her site, practical tips for riding in the city and ways to get more women involved in biking.

How did you get started with your blog? Well, I’ve been very enthusiastic about bicycling for the past decade. I also have a background in freelance writing and marketing. I started velojoy in May 2010 to be more oriented toward road cycling, because that is where I began. Not long after that, I got my first commuter bike and started riding in the bike lanes of New York City. There were so many interesting facets in what was starting to happen with cycling in the city at that time; more people were embracing cycling as a form of transportation and commuting. So the blog then became what it is now—a site devoted to city cycling—in the fall of 2010.

PHOTO BY DmiTrY GuDkOv

unlike the barriers you face when you’re getting on the subway. On a summer day, you take the train and it’s going to be really hot, then really cold, then hot again. There are things you can plan for, and in that way cycling can be as normal a part of your day and transportation as any other option.

What are some of the issues you address on velojoy? We want to help people consider cycling as a form of transportation and perhaps demystify it. We know based on studies that many people would like to bike more but are hesitant because of safety concerns. This is an obvious issue in a city with tons of traffic, but we want to show people that there are steps they can take to ensure a safe commute. One of the key issues we’re interested in is the considerable imbalance in the numbers of men and women who ride in the city. That ratio is about three to one. In the United States this is not unusual, but in many parts of Europe, it’s quite unusual. So another goal we have is to particularly get women to consider bicycling.

What do you recommend for people who have safety concerns or are worried about their appearance? There are some great classes offered here in the city. Bike New York, for example, offers free classes to learn about safety and road skills and ways to make commuting more comfortable and efficient. I myself got a lot out of the Commuting 101 class. We are also so fortunate to have an always improving infrastructure here in the city. As far as appearance, there are endless amounts of accessories out there to address every need. If your pants are floppy and you don’t want to get them caught in your bicycle chain, Brooks makes beautiful leather straps. If you have a lot of stuff to carry— extra clothes, a laptop, a briefcase—there are panniers that you put on a bike rack that are waterproof and can fit everything you need. There are ways to illuminate and stay safe after dark, both in terms of bicycle lights and apparel. It used to be that the only option available was a bright orange safety vest, but now major brands like Vespertine and Angella Mackey design clothing that helps you stay illuminated during the night in a way that’s really attractive.

What are some of the reasons for the difference in the numbers of male and female riders in the city? Studies show that women have more reservations about riding for safety reasons than men. But also, in a city that’s as image-conscious as New York, we find many women have practical concerns— perhaps having one’s hairdo messed up by a helmet or perspiring on the way to work. We’re interested in having people recognize that these barriers, in the end, are not

What would you say to people who may never have considered biking to convince them to give it a try? Bicycling is really such a great pleasure. It offers a different point of view of the city. You’re higher, moving through space and encountering the outdoors in an entirely different way. It’s also a good way to stay healthy and fit, and reduces pollution, so it’s great for the environment. It’s really a win-win and makes the city as a whole a more enjoyable place. For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

How did you come up with the name? Velo is a word for bike. It’s probably more recognized in Europe than it is in the United States. If you put that together with ‘joy,’ that perfectly expresses what the blog is about.

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For the Love of Cycling and Riders New York Cycle Club’s program leads to better skills and marriage By Grace Lichtenstein The most significant contribution made by the 75-year-old New York Cycle Club (NYCC) to local bike riding and to thousands of riders is our annual spring series, called the SIGs. Each one consists of a series of weekly progressive training rides that increase in speed and distance. An acronym for special interest groups, the SIGs are perhaps the most valuable free benefit available to club members. They are led by experienced volunteers, who teach their peers the skills they need to ride well in groups. Conducted from March through May, the SIGs offers cyclists an ideal way to build speed and endurance and to jumpstart their season. The first SIG, back in the 1980s, was the brainchild of Christy Guzzetta, an A-level rider and club activist, and it was truly an act of love. At the time, hardcore male club riders—the ones with shaved legs, tight wool shorts, bikes with snazzy Camponolo components and shoes with cleats nailed to their soles—would zoom out of Central Park on A rides and those who could not keep up with the pack were dropped. There were almost no women. Guzzetta, who was a bachelor, was eager to encourage,

rather than intimidate, women who might be willing to give these difficult rides a shot. One particular woman was recovering from a bad knee injury. How could she ever ride with the guys? Guzzetta came up with an idea. Why not invite Jody to start out early in March with a short, slow ride and continue the following week with a few more miles and a bit more speed? This would allow her to grow stronger little by little, so that after three months or so, she would have a rehabbed knee and be a faster rider. She agreed; Guzzetta invited along several strong B riders who also wanted ride skills help. He put a notice in the club bulletin, and the first SIG was born. Forty riders turned up that first Saturday in March 1986. Seventeen weeks later, there were eight new pace-line-riding, speedy A riders, including the formerly bum-kneed Jody Saylor. To cap its success, Guzzetta and Jody had become a couple and they eventually got married. The SIG series was so inspirational that it was repeated the following year and the year after that. Soon, so many club members wanted to participate that two additional levels were

added: one for beginners and one for those aiming to go from the beginning C level to B. By March 2012, the SIGs were the club’s signature series, with four levels: A-classic, for the fastest riders, plus A-19, B and C levels. There is such anticipation that sublevels have been devised within the B and C categories to accommodate as many riders as volunteers can handle while keeping groups at a reasonable size. A SIG Graduation ride 2011 at Bear Mountain Park. Thousands of members PHOTO BY BOW COBIN have enhanced their skills few SIGGies, as we call them, have followed the and enjoyed the camaraderie of a SIG. What’s more, scores of SIG graduates original model by meeting a mate and marryhave repaid the club by becoming vol- ing one another. As cycling’s popularity in the city mushunteer SIG ride leaders. A second series, dubbed the STS (Spring Training Series), rooms, the NYCC continues to refine what with no education element but with the has become its most important tradition, emphasis on simply building endurance, is the SIGs, a program that rewards members with better and safer riding skills while now part of the club’s schedule. Over the years, SIG graduates have become providing a benefit that’s priceless: lifelong officers, leaders of regular club rides 8rac- friendships, on the road and off. ers. Several have attended ride camps at the Olympic Training Center and others have Grace Lichtenstein is the NY Cycle Club’s added to their recreational activities by enter- public relations director. ing duathlons and triathlons. And more than a For more bike coverage visit nypress.com.

Don’t just ride, Bike MS. and experience New York City traffic-free. BIKE MS: NEW YORK CITY /// SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21 2012 /// LIMITED TO 5,000 RIDERS /// REGISTER TODAY /// BIKEMSNYC.ORG OR CALL 212 463 9791

New York City 2012 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

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Hit a bump in the road?

NYC Velo

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Bfold

Biria USA

Cyclelogical

Echelon Cycles

bf ld Imagine a stress free commute that is cheaper than the subway and faster than a cab. This dream is a reality with a folding bicycle. Folding bicycles provides a portable means of transportation for anyone who has limited space or wants to travel with their bicycle. They fit under a desk, into the trunk of a car and travel easily aboard trains and airlines. For the last decade Bfold has focused exclusively on folding bicycles and has introduced countless commuters to this life-changing mode of a transportation. We specialize in quality folding bicycles and scooters, including Brompton, Tern, Dahon, Xooter, Bike Friday and more. Come visit us in Manhattan’s Lower East Side to experience a folding bike first hand.

224 E. 13th Street, Unit #1 212.529.7247

Ten years ago Biria USA started a trend in the bicycle industry, and that was to bring a European bicycle culture into the United States. The use of the commuting bikes has been getting more popular over the years. Biria offers a wide range of city bicycles and has dealers in most cities in US and Canada. The range of Biria bikes can be seen at www.biria.com.

www.biria.com

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At Cyclelogical we offer lifestyle bicycle bags, bicycle accessories, bicycle clothing and very cool T-shirts. We try to manufacture as much as we can in the USA--and attempt to use as many re-claimed, organic or environmental friendly materials as possible. We want to bring the best travel and bike commuter gear to the market. Our gear will get you to and from your destination safely and in style. Whether you are riding to the office, meeting up with friends, or going to the grocery store, we have the right equipment and options.

Visit us at www.cyclelogicalgear.com

Echelon Cycles, the fastest growing name in the NYC cycling scene, started only two years ago right here in the West Village. They carry the top names in high end road bikes like Colnago, Focus, Scott, Fuji, Kestrel, Masi and more. They are also fully stocked with all other bike types. EC serves their local community with the necessary essentials such as flat fixes, tune-ups, and repairs. Whether you’re looking to restore the glory of your old bike, or need accessories - locks, lights, or a helmet, or difficult to find parts visit Echelon Cycles in Greenwich Village. Check out their brands on the web: echeloncyclesnyc.com

51 8th A ve. West Village New York C ity echeloncyclesnyc.com

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WHEN

www.biketothebeach.org

What: A century ride benefiting Autism Speaks When: Before sunrise Friday, June 8th, 2012 Where: Manhattan to Westhampton Beach, NY Why: Every 20 minutes a child is diagnosed with autism

AUTISM SPEAKS

YOU DON’T HAVE TIME TO WAIT

It’s time to listen.