February 8, 2010

20TH ANNIVERSARY REACH THE BEACH RIDER PROFILE: Surfer John Thompson

John Thompson says his life motto is "An ounce of 'I must do something' is worth a pound of 'something must be done'" which is why he loves riding Reach the Beach and hopes that someday both his sons can ride the full course with him. "My son Geoff rode the second half of RTB with me when he was about 25. He was MY inspiration." His son, now 33, lives with asthma and John rides to honor his life struggle and in support of the American Lung Association in Oregon.


John says his favorite part of the course is from Grand Ronde to Pacific City: "Rolling, twisty and only one short hill to climb... then arriving at Pacific City!" He also fondly remembers the year Geoff rode with him. The young man was a go-getter, way ahead of everyone else. "He had thighs of steel," John says. But Geoff's energy didn't last longer than necessary: "Partaking of the food at Pacific City, Geoff fell asleep at the table" after enjoying the finish line dinner.


John loves the challenges of Reach the Beach. "I like pushing my own envelope a bit to see how much better I can do on the ride itself," he says. "I also enjoy being able to raise donations, give back to the community and knowing I am making a difference."


John says raising contributions really isn't that hard, and he suggest seeking contributions early. "I tend to keep friends and potential contributors informed about my progress when it comes to training and meeting my fundraising goal. I try to write about humorous episodes while training. Although I have a two or three friends who really helped raise my fundraising goals, it is just as important to have many who can donate a small amount."


John first rode Reach the Beach in 1994 with a team he formed comprised of his coworkers from the City of Portland, Bureau of Environmental Services. Now at age 61, he's still riding, and loves the thrill of actually reaching the beach. "My car always goes on RTB with a surfboard on top and bike on the back." COWABUNGA! We'll see you at the beach, John!

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 1:10 PM | Permalink

February 4, 2010

BUILD IT! Rally + Public Hearing

The Bicycle Transportation Alliance hopes that City Hall will adopt their Bike Plan for 2030. That adoption is the first step in the long road to actually getting that plan built, so they've started the BUILD IT! campaign to help see the project through to fruition.

They've organized a rally for 1:30pm at City Hall today, February 4th, and they hope people will come out in droves with BUILD IT! signs. You can print out a sign here.

The hearing begins at 2:00pm and the organizers are hoping for a strong presence leading into that. There is no need to testify, as in standing in front of a mic, but you are encouraged to t e s t i f y ! as in holding your sign proudly and being one of the people in support of BUILD IT! If you can't make it to the rally, other ways to be involved are listed here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:24 AM | Permalink

February 2, 2010

How to Tell Your Bike "I Love You"

Cyclists are invited to the Worst Day of the Year Ride Pre-Ride Check In event on Saturday, February 13th from 2-5pm at the Lucky Lab, 915 SE Hawthorne for a Valentine Studio. People can make their own custom creative Valentine's, for a sweetie or for their bikes.

A cyclist's bike is a well-trusted steed, relied upon in a very personal way. Tell your bike I love you "For the endless miles" "For keeping me healthy" "For not getting flat tires" or for whatever reason you want. These special love notes will be posted all over the walls of the event the next day at the ride.

The very best of the bunch will be archived on TallBikeTales.com, a new (and not yet available) online museum of bicycle culture that will launch on February 14th, 2010.

This event is geared toward people participating in the Worst Day of the Year Ride, but it is open to all. You may register for the event, pick up your rider materials, purchase a super cool commemorative pink shirt (limited quantities), ask questions, review routes, pick up materials for other riders and more.

To register for the Worst Day of the Year Ride, CLICK HERE. The ride is limited to 3,500 people and is expected to sell out. Register early and save $$$. The Worst Day of the Year Ride is a benefit for the Community Cycling Center.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:25 PM | Permalink

February 1, 2010

Worst Day of the Year Ride

The Worst Day of the Year Ride is an annual tradition and riders flock from all over for this opportunity to parade the streets of Portland, rain or shine. This year's ride falls on Valentine's Day, so get ready for some sweetheart fun.

The Last Regiment Drum Corps kicks off the start line with their soul-riveting beats that are sure to wake you up and get you moving and grooving. Hot coffee and yummy doughnuts will keep you cozy as you prepare for the ride.

This year's ride features belly-warming treats and hot drinks at every rest stop and a great tour of Portland as you ride alongside streams of costumed riders circling the city You'll cross the river, ride along the waterfront, journey through four quadrants, stop at the Community Cycling Center and cruise along the Alameda ridge o this perfectly Portland ride.

The ride is limited to 3,500 riders and is expected to sell out. Register early and ensure your spot on this not-to-be missed ride!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:15 PM | Permalink

December 21, 2009

Holiday Gift Ideas

A quick internet search will pull up a wide variety of gift ideas for the bikers in your life, but we couldn't resist adding to the mix with some of our local faves.

WORST DAY OF THE YEAR RIDE PASS - This quirky annual tradition will sell out at 3,500 riders. Make sure you and your buddies have a spot on the ride by buying gift certificates. Better than a wool scarf or another tie, this gift is a unique one that will give you a full day of fun with your buddies.

REACH THE BEACH RIDE PASS - Reach the Beach is a fully-supported ride to the beach with four course distance options. This all-day event is a wonderful way to tour the Oregon countryside. When you buy a gift pass, the fundraising minimum is covered. Must purchase before the 23rd, so don't delay.

FILMED BY BIKE DVDs + SHIRTS - Filmed by Bike is a film festival of bike-themed movies. Every year they put out a new compilation of crowd favorites from the festival. The movies are no longer than 8 minutes, making for DVDs that are jam-packed with a variety of two wheeled wonders. The t-shirt they sell online features a sleek cog and makes a nice gift for even the fussiest designer on your list.

FIX IT YOURSELF! - Give teh gift of education with classes from Gracie's Wrench, expert bike repair instruction and advanced clinics such as wheel building.

STOCKING STUFFERS - Check out our holiday newsletter for stocking stuffer ideas like mini bike lights.


Happy Holidays! - Team ORbike

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:17 PM | Permalink

November 23, 2009

Kruger's Crossing Introduces Doggie Cross

Cross season just won't allow people to hibernate as winter approaches, and Kruger's Crossing was no exception. The race was last Sunday at Kruger's Farm on Sauvie Island, just outside of Portland. The torrential winds and hard rain the night before blew down tents, tables and a made for a lot of clean up on Sunday morning as organizers scrambled to get things back in order for that early 8:50am Beginner Men's race. But the reward came in the afternoon when the skies opened and a warm sun shone down on the hundreds of people present.

The mud was so ultra thick that some racers opted to run their bike the entire course. An optional corn maze cut-through proved beneficial early on in the day, but had become arduous later in the afternoon as husks and ears of corn mixed into the mud. (race results here)

With bright orange pumpkins filling the outer fields, golden fields of drying corn husks and the bright colors of jerseys and jackets positioned against the bold blue sky, it was a gorgeous day on the farm as Kruger's Crossing unveiled the new doggie cross, which I hope becomes an annual tradition. Owners ran with their dogs on leash over a shortened course of barricades and lots of mud. The most pee-wee of pups were carried by their often not-so-pee-wee owners (see photos) while others bounded effortlessly to a grand win. Dog treats and hilarity ensured. Plus tons of photos, I'm sure.

I went home with bags brimming with fresh produce from the Kruger's Farm Market and already can't wait for next year.

Check out photos here:

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:42 PM | Permalink

November 18, 2009

Keepin' Busy

We're keeping busy around here at the ORbike headquarters: busy trying to keep up with all of you! There are still tons of bike events, rides, races and clinics happening. Gotta love the Oregon can-do spirit! We'll be updating our calendar shortly with even more events.

Kruger's Crossing registration ends Thursday at 11:59pm, BikeCraft is coming up soon and we have plenty more to tell you about. Stay tuned!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:12 PM | Permalink

November 10, 2009

Photo Shoot Part Two

The Worst Day of the Year Ride photo shoot continues this Saturday, November 14th at 2:00pm rain or shine. Free ride passes for all participants in the photo shoot. It's a really easy project, just fun loving photo shooting. You don't need to be a model, you just need to love being near your bike and standing with a bunch of other bikers. There is very little riding involved and there is ample coverage from the rain. The goal is to have more than 20 people, so spread the word and bring your friends.

RSVP to Ayleen [at] GoodSportPromotion.com.

Meet on 3rd Ave under the EAST side of Burnside.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO BRING:
*Helmet
*Umbrella
*Bike
*Friends
* Scarf
*Fun-loving attitude

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:05 PM | Permalink

November 5, 2009

Worst Day of the Year Ride Photo Shoot

It's time for the annual quirky-fun Worst Day of the Year Ride photo shoot! The shoot will take place on Monday at 5:00. Over 20 people are needed. The final image will be used in the promotional materials for this great ride.

For more info or to sign up to be involved, contact Ayleen [at] GoodSportPromotion.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:10 PM | Permalink

Worst Day of the Year Ride Photo Shoot

It's time for the annual quirky-fun Worst Day of the Year Ride photo shoot! The shoot will take place on Monday at 5:00. Over 20 people are needed. The final image will be used in the promotional materials for this great ride.

For more info or to sign up to be involved, contact Ayleen [at] GoodSportPromotion.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:22 PM | Permalink

Worst Day of the Year Ride Photo Shoot

It's time for the annual quirky-fun Worst Day of the Year Ride photo shoot! The shoot will take place on Monday at 5:00. Over 20 people are needed. The final image will be used in the promotional materials for this great ride.

For more info or to sign up to be involved, contact Ayleen [at] GoodSportPromotion.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:10 PM | Permalink

October 29, 2009

Breakfast on the Bridge, Spooky Style

As the last Friday of the month rolls around in Portland, volunteers gather up doughnuts and pastries and brew brimming pots of fresh coffee for their fellow bikers - just a little "thanks for riding" gesture. These stalwart (and goofy-fun) volunteers stand on the Broadway and Hawthorne bridges to pass out breakfast treats during morning commute hours for Breakfast on the Bridge. What started as a simple, random after-work project with cookies and a chance for bikers to meet has now grown into a monthly tradition - rain or shine - that has been going strong since 2002. The concept has now spread to other cities and in Portland it is affiliated with the bike fun group Shift.

Breakfast on the Bridge is always pretty awesome, but nothing beats Breakfast on the Bridge during Halloween. Volunteers don costumes, masks, wigs and an overly-caffeinated jittery and excited demeanor. It is definitely a great time to be atop on of Portland's bridges, socializing (again, rain or shine) with other bikers before work.

So if you're crossing a bridge to get to work in Portland tomorrow, choose the Hawthorne or Broadway, and be sure you're wearing a costume! Have fun.

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 10:03 PM | Permalink

October 16, 2009

Ride Oregon Launch Party

Oregonians are pretty good about keeping our Hawaiian summers a secret (weeks on end of gorgeous sunny days with a light breeze), but we're not so good at keeping our bike friendliness a secret. Why should we? It would be selfish! The rest of the world deserves a change to experience the cycling beauty of Oregon, even if just for a visit.

So Travel Oregon launched the Ride Oregon website, an extensive and growing resource of great rural routes, ride ideas, tips and stories. The site is great for anyone who wants to explore Oregon on two wheels, even if you live here.

Travel Oregon calls what Oregon offers a "big ol' slide of bike heaven... pretty much the perfect place to pedal"

Continue reading "Ride Oregon Launch Party"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:23 AM | Permalink

September 29, 2009

Gearheads Geek Out! (Special ORbike Twitter Series)

Interbike is the big bike industry expo where new products are rolled out. VeloReviews put together a series of product reviews, and this weekend we'll be sharing a selection of them with you along with reviews from other sources. Whether you're into mt. biking, racing or everyday cycling, there are plenty of new products out there.

THREE WAYS TO FOLLOW THIS SERIES
1) Stay tuned to the ORbike front page left column where our Twitter feed runs live and you'll see each of the product reviews, four at a time.

2) Our full series will be up on Twitter

3) If you miss it this weekend, you can find all of the articles here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:17 PM | Permalink

September 16, 2009

BiKETOBEERFEST Celebrates PDX Bike Culture

Hopworks Urban Brewery is hosting BiKETOBEERFEST, a bike-in Oktoberfest celebrating Portland's bike culture and a benefit for the street-freeing Sunday Parkways. The party is this Saturday, 9/19, and it's free from noon-10pm. They're serving up drinks in a BiKETOBEERFEST pint glass that you get to keep - making this a zero waste event. Ride to the event with your family and friends to witness the unveiling of two new organic fresh-hop beers while immersing yourself in Portland's rich biking community.

BiKETOBEERFEST is the world's only bike-in Oktoberfest. Bikes only, no cars allowed. We recommend you bring your lock, lights and wear a helmet. Bike parking is conveniently located directly at the entrance to the event so you can roll up in style! Find your biking route to Hopworks using the tools on their website.

There are five live bands, including March Fourth Marching Band (!!!!!), bike competitions and more. The entire event should be tons of fun.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:32 PM | Permalink

September 10, 2009

Hood River Harvest Ride

Get ready to enjoy delicious fruits of the harvest on a ride that tours Hood River Valley's quaint back roads. Over time, this unique valley has been shaped by the Columbia Floods and Mt. Hood's glaciers - making it perfect for biking. The Hood River Harvest Ride offers you the opportunity to experience the beauty of the valley by choosing from easy, moderate or very challenging routes - all with some awesome descents. You will be well taken care of along the ride with rest stops at family-owned farm stands and wineries. Want to indulge in the abundant pear and apple harvest while visiting these farm stands? No problem; the free ride shuttle will carry your produce purchases back to the finish. What service!

The Hood River Harvest Ride is a very family-friendly event and they offer non-biking options for family and friends, like a train ride through the valley and off-site childcare. You can even opt to camp overnight if you still want to go for a ride on Sunday. By taking part in this majestic ride, you are also supporting the non-profit Hood River Valley Residents Committee and their 30+ year mission of protecting farm and forestland and promoting livable communities in the Hood River Valley.

[ More info | Register ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:36 PM | Permalink

September 3, 2009

ORbike Member Profile: Sarah Eustis

Sarah Eustis, an avid daily rider from Portland, says she became an ORbike member because biking is her primary means of transportation and entertainment. When not on her bike, Sarah enjoys training for triathlons, work (she loves her job), and hanging out with her friends and family (especially if it involves biking and eating with them).

Sarah has built up a long list of favorite biking memories including: 1) Taking seven kids from the Bronx on an 11-day bike trip along the underground Railroad in Ohio 2) Cycling four New York City boroughs in one day with the man she fell in love with and joined on a move to Portland 3) Filmed by Bike Festival in Portland.

So what's her favorite ORbike member event? "Worst Day of the Year Ride, 2008," she says. "It was my first ride as a member and as a volunteer. I rode the route twice!" A great ride indeed! The event Sarah was most anticipating next was the Portland Century. She thoroughly enjoyed the ride and ORbike thinks she'll probably be on the route again next year. We look forward to seeing Sarah at our future events as well!

Join Sarah and become an ORbike member today for 365 days of savings on events. [ more info ]

We're currently profiling the very cool ORbike members. If you have a story you'd like to share, or to tell us about your riding season, contact Ayleen [at] ORbike.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:06 PM | Permalink

August 14, 2009

Ride Profile: Rodger Lance for the Portland Century

A century ride, much like a marathon race for a runner, is the pinnacle ride to achieve. So we're taking some time to profile riders of the Portland Century who are pushing themselves to complete the full 100 miles. With the top notch support offered on the Portland Century, including rest stops every 15 miles, mechanics riding alongside and at the rest stops, and support vehicles to offer lifts, this event is a perfect way to attempt a full century.

Rodger Lance, a 67-year-old from Vancouver, WA, is one of those riders who is pushing himself on the ride. "This is not my first Century, but I was worried about the climbing near Bull Run," Rodger admits. So he opted for the 50 mile course instead, but that didn't fly with his son. " My son said he will drag me over the mountain if he has to with my Daughter's boy friend pushing. When I said I was doing the 50 mile course, they sent me back a list of 10 reasons why I should not do the 50."

Have you ever ridden a century ride? If not, the Portland Century is a great way to give it a shot. You can even try the warm up of equally enjoyable and well-supported courses with the 50- and 25-mile options on this great ride.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:46 PM | Permalink

Brown Bag Lunch: Adventures in Bike Parking

This month at PBOT's Bicycle Brown Bag series: Adventures in Bike Parking.

It's great to go by bike but where do you secure your beloved steed once you get there? Especially when about 8% of everyone traveling is also going by bike. Sarah Figliozzi will talk about some of the challenges and some creative solutions. View this primer about on-street bike parking or check out BikePortland.org's coverage of the issue.

Thursday, August 20th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Portland Building
1120 SW 5th Avenue, 2d floor, Room C
(bring your lunch!)

[ Bicycle Brown Bag info ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:38 PM | Permalink

August 11, 2009

Rider Profile: David + Teri Meyer for the Portland Century

David and Teri Meyer are taking their Portland Century involvement to a new level by also participating in the PC Challenge, an opportunity to raise support for prostate cancer while riding the Portland Century. "We are excited about being part of the ride to raise the profile of the need for increased funding for prostate cancer and as an opportunity to talk openly about how pervasive this disease is for men who otherwise could be leading vibrant and healthy lives in their middle-aged years." Joining the PC Challenge is easy, you first register for the Portland Century, then you download a fundraising form and encourage friends and family to support you mile by mile (or anyway you choose).

For David and Teri, their involvement is close to their hearts, "This disease has touched our circle of loved ones in the past several years. My beloved uncle was diagnosed a few years ago and he was one of those people who was vigilant about getting check ups due to a pre-existing history with his father. No matter how diligent and otherwise healthy, this disease is taking control of his destiny because thus far current treatment protocols are not progressed enough to provide the proper cure." David, Teri and many other PC Challenge riders will be bringing in much-needed support for the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute. "We need better cures and funding can help make the difference," Teri says. "For some silly reason we as a society are not recognizing how serious this cancer is and it needs to be taken more seriously."

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:45 AM | Permalink

Rider Profile: Hands on Portland Crew for Portland Century

In addition to celebrating the sights, sounds and tastes of Portland, cyclists at The Portland Century on August 16 will show their support for the local non-profit Hands On Greater Portland. As the beneficiary of the Portland Century, Hands On staff look forward to taking to two wheels and riding the 50 mile course.

"Just about everyone at Hands On is a biker, but we rarely get a chance to ride together. It will be great to roll together," says Hands On Executive Director, Andy Nelson. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, Portland is second in the nation for volunteering. When asked what makes Hands On a special part of Portland, Andy added, "Hands On has become synonymous with volunteering. We give Portlanders a way to get connected to volunteering in a way that is meaningful to them."

Continue reading "Rider Profile: Hands on Portland Crew for Portland Century"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:36 AM | Permalink

August 6, 2009

Finally the Hottest Day Ride

Funny how this little story goes... the Worst Day of the Year Ride is held in February but the weather is always surprisingly warm with clear skies. The Hottest Day of the Year Ride in August, on the other hand, has always had dreary, cold weather - until this year! After a week-long Portland heat wave, the ride took place on a pleasantly warm Sunday for a day of summertime fun in the sun, on two wheels. 750 riders enjoyed all of the summer-time, keep-cool events lined up on the route.

Riders had the option of a 15 mile or 40 mile route. The first stop on the route included Oregon's longest slip 'n' slide. If the photos are any indication, both kids and adults jumped in whole hog and we can't tell who had more fun. The second stop featured a watermelon eating contest, and plenty contenders did their very best to down a melon slice - hands free.

The grand finale came at the finish line where riders enjoyed a cool mist as they entered the festivities toward the all-you-can-eat sundae bar. The tables were laden with huge bowls full of marshmallows, sprinkles, nuts, strawberries, crushed Oreo cookies, Fruitloops, whipped cream and so much more! But as great as the sundae bar was, the true highlight of the finish line was the water fight. Subaru provided water pistols and people were barely over the finish line before they were already grabbing the filling the pistols and starting to squirt one another in delight.We saw some very soaked, but jovial, participants head home by afternoon's end.

The event was a summertime hit! We hope those of you who are ORbike members enjoyed your savings and your free beer at the finish line. We look forward to seeing you out at the next event: The Portland Twilight Criterium on Friday where you members can sit with us in the VIP lounge for prime race viewing, appetizers and free beer. If you're not already an ORbike member, it's not too late to sign up and join us in the VIP lounge!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:26 PM | Permalink

August 5, 2009

Ride Profile: Heather Parrish for the Portland Century

With August upon us, the Portland Century is right around the corner. On August 16, hundreds of cyclists will celebrate Portland and its fringes by enjoying tasty local food, scenic views, a strong sense of cycling community and much, much more.

Heather Parrish, a Portland area native, plans to celebrate both Portland and her birthday by riding the 25 mile quarter century route. Heather, who will be joined on route by her sister, is looking forward to the great food and relaxed atmosphere. "My favorite aspects of Portland include the wide variety of quality food and vegetarian options, the summers, gardening and the urban farmer movement. I've traveled a fair but, but I can't imagine living anywhere else!"

Join Heather - and wish her happy birthday - on August 16 by registering for the 25, 50 or 100 mile route today.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:52 PM | Permalink

Tweeting the Crit

The sound system at the Portland Twilight Criterium, Presented by Subaru struggles to carry sound all the way around the massive event. If the budget for this race were as massive as the event, there would likely be a Jim Lee (sound master)-designed sound system. But since it's not, Jim suggested suggested tweeting (sending Twitter online alert updates) the race leaders every lap. Sounds like Jim's onto something here. And, I must note, Jim's not one of those obnoxious "what I had for lunch" 20-something over-tweeters. Jim's maybe, well, I don't want to guess, but let's just say he's definitely over 40.

Want to help? Contact @pdxTwilightCrit to help - or Ayleen[at] GoodSportPromotion.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:54 AM | Permalink

August 4, 2009

Rider Profile: David Beltz

David Beltz has been hit hard by prostate cancer: too many of his close friends have it. One of his oldest friends who is suffering from prostate cancer asked him to find a way to link his favorite sport - cycling - to the cause. That's why David is participating in the PC Challenge option for the Portland Century. This new ride feature allows riders to participate in the incredible Portland Century while also raising support for prostate cancer research. "The Portland Century and PC Challenge adventure ride has become a major life goal for me," David says.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men though there is not a lot of research going into it. "The frequency of men contracting prostate cancer is so high and most people know little about it. My uncle died of it, my close friend has it, an in-law has it, and it may affect me as well," David says. David is looking forward to the ride offering him a chance to challenge himself "intellectually and physically to overcome the 100 miles of mountainous climbs to ride for the cure!"

David is developing a fundraising plan that encourages people he knows to sponsor him by the mile in support of the Knight Prostate Cancer Research Center at OHSU. "This good work connects us as brothers in the fight for the cure," David says.

For more information, see the PC Challenge website.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:41 PM | Permalink

July 30, 2009

Hot nights: watch bike movies!

The Bicycle Film Festival (not to be confused with Portland's own Filmed by Bike) is a celebration of bicycle culture, movies and fashion that travels the globe. The festival is in Portland this weekend, which gives you the perfect opportunity to beat the heat and head to a cool movie theater.

Movies show all evening on Friday and from 4-9 on Saturday with five separate programs and parties both nights. It looks like a great line up of movies. Check out the full Portland schedule and plan your cool-out sessions accordingly.

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 5:33 PM | Permalink

July 11, 2009

Rider Profile: Ben Sherwood for Mt. Bike Oregon

Ben Sherwood has to Mt. Bike Oregon every year and he knows exactly what keeps him going back to Mt. Bike Oregon every year. Here's his list: "Everything, really, keeps me coming back. The camping next to the *clean* Willamette, the great food - the sandwiches certainly taste "Killer" when half way through the Middle Fork. The micro-brew beer is such a staple every evening which really tops off the day with friends. And let's not forget the people - 2009 is the first year that I'm coming without friends as everyone here is so outgoing that meeting people and sharing in the common interest of mountain biking is a cinch."

He signs the bus (look for his name above the door), he rides back from Middle Fork through the golf course (instead of waiting for the shuttle) and he loves the guides. "Honestly my favorite part of MBO is the guides. Sounds cheesy, but really, they make the rides outstanding. Kiwi, ALL the guys from The Bike Gallery, Desciples of Dirt, etc. are great people who are enthusiastic and positive. And of course there's (co-organizer) Randy (Dreiling), the man with the plan. His organization and character really help to make MBO great."

Continue reading "Rider Profile: Ben Sherwood for Mt. Bike Oregon"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:07 PM | Permalink

July 10, 2009

Everyone Rides The Night Ride

You never know who's going to stay up late to sneak through the streets of Portland on The Night Ride. In fact, this year there is a crew visiting from Germany who are excited to ride and whoop it up (pictured).

Also riding will be Mattia Pelegrini, a cabinet member from the European Union Transportation Policy cabinet. Mr. Pellegrini will be visiting with Portland Bicycle Coordinator Roger Geller on Monday, but on Saturday night it's all about the fun stuff for him. We have not yet heard if he'll be in costume, but perhaps he'll sport the flag of his native Italy on his rental bike. Mr. Pellegrini is in town to learn more about Portland's progressive approach to transportation. Austin Ramsland, a board member from the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (the event's beneficiary) will be joining him on the ride.

Top that! Who are you bringing to The Night ride?

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:00 PM | Permalink

Meet the Mt. Bike Oregon Guides: Davey

"Most of us feel we've got the best backyard on the planet. We love to share it and show it off." - Davey Sprocket

Mt. Bike Oregon is a mt. biker's dream weekend getaway, but, really, it guides are the ones who make this event so epic. Their knowledge of the trails is paramount. So we thought we'd introduce you to some of them, and we're starting with Davey - affectionately known as Davey Sprocket. Davey is 100% hooked on mt. biking. "I love the woods. I love wheels. I love picking lines. I love to challenge myself. I love the camaraderie of riding with my buds," he shares.

Davey started mt. biking in 1985 and just two years later he founded the Disciples of Dirt, a mt. bike club in the Oakridge area. "DOD's members have been riding and caring for these trails ever since." he says. So, obviously, he knows his trails well, and he says his favorite of the MBO rides is probably Tire Mountain.

The photo is of Davey (pointing) and fellow rider Brock atop Patterson Mtn., which is the Lone Wolf viewpoint on the Lawler Trail. Davey says, "This is one of my favorite places on the planet. One of the many places I love to take MBO participants because the trail is unique and the view is awesome. From that viewpoint you can see Alpine, Tire Mtn., Winberry Divide, Cloverpatch and Hardesty (explains why I'm pointing!)"

Continue reading "Meet the Mt. Bike Oregon Guides: Davey"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:51 AM | Permalink

July 9, 2009

Rider Profile: Steve Ipp for Mt. Bike Oregon

What would entice Steve Ipp to travel over 3,000 miles to be a part of the Mt. Bike Oregon experience? Is it the scenic trails, the overwhelming sense of mountain bike pride, the great food and beer? Sure. But mainly it's the thrilling down hill rides. "In Florida, we don't have 'down hills!'" he explains.

Steve lives in Lake Worth, Florida and can be found riding on one of his many beloved mountain bikes every weekend. One of his favorite places to ride is Jonathan Dickenson State Park in Jupiter, Florida. "It's a series of ancient sand dunes covered with Florida scrub, single-track, and lots of sand. It's a beautiful natural area and offers considerable challenges."

No stranger to a great ride, Steve is looking forward to immersing himself later this month in what is sure to be a mountain bike enthusiast's dream weekend. On July 17-19, a whopping 3,192 miles from home, Steve will be in the company of hundreds of fellow riders during the first Mt. Bike Oregon excursion of the 2009 season.

Continue reading "Rider Profile: Steve Ipp for Mt. Bike Oregon"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:36 AM | Permalink

July 1, 2009

The Night Ride Rider Profile: Ashman Family

Staying up past his bedtime to eat his heart's desire of donuts is just one reason that six year old Levi Ashman is looking forward to The Night Ride on July 11. Levi will be riding with his parents and extended family on his first solo ride, a significant moment for this budding little cyclist.

Levi's parents, Jennifer and Brian, are looking forward to sharing the experience with their son. "Riding is very important to our family. Our children - ages 6, 4 and 2 - have all grown up around bikes from a very young age, and they look forward to going on rides."

This year, the Ashman family will be decked out in glow necklaces during the ride, which features a nice flat 15-mile course.

In true Portland style, The Night Ride kicks off at the Portland Train Station with the Amtrak Cascades Costume Contest and glow-in-the-dark face painting followed by tricks and treats around every corner, including a bike-in movie, a dance-tastic disco party rest stop, and a celebratory all-you-can-eat doughnut feast! Keep an eye out for the Ashman clan at this year's The Night Ride! REGISTER TODAY

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:48 PM | Permalink

June 30, 2009

Jackson's Ride the Gorge rider profile: The Slow Spokes

What does it take to be a part of the Slow Spokes? "You should always be the last to start, the last to finish, and you simply must enjoy every minute of the ride!"

Meet Anne Hasson, leader of the Slow Spokes - a group of eight local women rallied together to ride the upcoming fourth annual Jackson's Ride the Gorge, presented by A4. Why the "Slow Spokes?" Because enjoying life is not a race, Anne explains. And why Jackson's Ride the Gorge? Because of Anne's close connection to Jackson Hill, a 12 year old boy who passed away after a courageous 19 month battle with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer.

Continue reading "Jackson's Ride the Gorge rider profile: The Slow Spokes"

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 2:08 AM | Permalink

June 25, 2009

All About PJs: Rider comes from Idaho to ride The Night Ride

Julie Morrison is looking forward to the rare opportunity to sport her pajamas while atop a fancifully decorated bike at The Night Ride on July 11, during her upcoming visit to Portland.

Morrison is from Meridian, Idaho and will be riding with a small group of family and friends. What lured her into trekking from her hometown to join in the fun? "The craziness, the fact that it is so out of the ordinary for cycling... cycling in the dark!"
BThe Night Ride on July 11 is an uber-fun, slightly spooky, totally delicious (all you can eat donuts!) supported ride with surprises around every corner and the most unique rest stops around. It's also a benefit for the Bicycle Transportation Alliance.

Continue reading "All About PJs: Rider comes from Idaho to ride The Night Ride"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:09 PM | Permalink

Big Weekend : Big Fun

This is the final weekend of Pedalpalooza, and as always the festival plans to go out with a bang: the Multnomah County Bike Fair. This festival is not for the faint at heart. There will be tall bike jousting and other competitions, a raucous beer garden and live music. The bike craft zone features the bike-themed handiwork of local artists and crafters. There are also food vendors and other activities. The fun starts at 2pm at Col. Summers Park and the event ends at 7pm.

If you haven't had a chance to fully soak in Pedalpalooza, now is your chance! Check out the calendar for the last few events of this two-week festival. There is still plenty of fun to be had!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:40 PM | Permalink

June 19, 2009

Sunday Parkways: Superheros Still Needed

Sunday Parkways are eight mile "temporary parks" along city streets connecting neighborhoods and residents in North, Northeast and Southeast Portland. [watch the video] A relaxed, non-competitive, FREE event featuring a variety of activities in several parks and along the routes, Sunday Parkways gives Portlanders a chance to get out and be active right in their own neighborhoods. Intersections are staffed by volunteers, allowing residents to get to and from their driveways, with larger intersections supervised by Portland Police Bureau staff.

s15,000 Portland area residents and 300 volunteers participated in last year's successful Sunday Parkways and asked for more in 2009. So this summer, three separate events are planned, meaning more volunteers are needed. The first of these three exciting events kicks off this weekend. Superheros are needed to help monitor intersections and volunteer for a variety of positions throughout this fun event. Get your friends together and sign up today.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:54 PM | Permalink

June 16, 2009

Taco Ride : Chilango's Wins!

Pedalpalooza, the two-week festival of bike fun, is now if full swing and summer is definitely here. Last night's Taco Ride was a big hit with nearly 100 riders hopping from taqueria to taqueria to savor deliciously different tacos. Not all tacos al pastor are the same.... The winner, in my opinion, was Chilango's - hands down. This unassuming joint on NE Prescott at 15th features house-made super fresh tortillas. The only bummer is that they no longer sell their fluffy, soft tortillas in bulk. But their juicy, mouthwatering pork tacos with the complimentary spicy guacamole sauce.... now that's what a summer ride is all about!

Riders swarmed the sidewalk and the pocket park across the street at this, the third of four taco destinations that included Ole Ole on Burnside, Cha! Cha! Cha! on Broadway and Don Pancho on Alberta. The ride organizer called it the umpteenth year for this scrumptious ride (I think it was actually the 6th) and absolutely no one went home hungry. And the ice cream bars and beers from the convenience store were a great way to top off the summery night.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:49 PM | Permalink

June 15, 2009

Sunday Parkways Video

The City of Portland is opening streets to walking, bicycling, rolling, and roller blading - without having to watch out for cars! Sunday Parkways, sponsored by ORbike, are 7-8 mile "temporary parks" along city streets connecting neighborhoods and residents in Portland. After the overwhelming success of last year's event, this summer there will be three events: June 21 (North Portland), July 19 (Northeast Portland) and August 16 (Southeast Portland).

Sunday Parkways gives you a chance to get out and be active in the neighborhood. Parks along the route feature activities, workshops, entertainment and food as the event celebrates Portland as a walkable and bikeable city.

Watch the video >>

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:03 PM | Permalink

June 9, 2009

Wine Rides to Support Children's Heart Foundation

Join The Bike Gallery this summer on their popular wine rides, featuring quiet, rural roads, acclaimed Northern Willamette Valley wineries, and 100% benefiting the Children's Heart Foundation. This year you can choose between four rides, starting and ending at three different wineries: Penner-Ash, Vista Hills and Stoller Vineyards. Rides are 30-40 miles with rolling hills.

The route is approximately 32 miles long and includes several rolling hills. There will be a rest stop at the mid point of the ride and some roving support.

The extra good stuff comes at the end. The ride finishes with wine tasting and a catered lunch at Stoller Vineyards. Bring your favorite frisbee if you want to play on their disc golf course.

Register now

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:27 PM | Permalink

June 8, 2009

Kids' Ride!

Cirque du Cycling, June 13th, is a full day of bike fair action along Mississippi Avenue. The Family Ride is a 3.2 mile course starts at Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) and is perfect for all ages and abilities. The course will wind through the residential streets of Boise-Elliot up to Peninsula Park for a fun rest stop, then loops back to SEI.

The ride is free and it's a great warm-up for Sunday Parkways. It's free! From 12-3 there is a Fun Zone hosted at Grand Central Baking on Fremont, so kids can deck out their bikes in style. The Family Ride will make a stop at the Fun Zone on the way to the parade, for people who are interested in continuing the biking fun and riding in the Art Bike Parade. Register for all this fun today >>

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:05 PM | Permalink

June 1, 2009

All Ladies Tall Bike Troupe

Get ready to see the amazing feats of the Irondelles, the all-ladies tall bike troupe that's getting ready to strut their stuff as they roll along Mississippi Ave. as a part of the Cirque du Cycling Art Bike Parade on June 13th. The parade features all sorts of amazing art and freak bikes: bikes that swing side to side, bikes that look like sculpture, and bikes so tall they look like they'd be impossible to ride.

The Irondelles will be riding those tall bikes in their impressive costumery. (pictured here is Irondelle Tia welding her tall bike). This group of women has been honing their tall bike riding skills and will roll in style. Come out to participate or just to watch. You don't need to be an official club or group, you just need to have the gumption to organize a coordinated group of bikers, even if you're just riding those normal two-wheeled commuters that most of us have.

MORE INFO >>

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:34 AM | Permalink

May 23, 2009

Shutte Up, Bomb Down: Mt. Bike Oregon

Mt. Bike Oregon is a mt. biker's dream come true. But don't just take our word for it. Here's what Chester, a 2007 rider, once told the organizers, "It's like MBO took all the inconvenient parts of a mountain biking weekend and did them for us. They scope out the trails - we ride them, they shuttle up - we bomb down, they cook - we eat, they tap the kegs - we drink the beer. Everyone was super friendly and super helpful and the riding was just amazing. Thanks for a great weekend."

And speaking of beer, this year's event features a free nightly beer garden with a tantalizing selection of microbrews from Ninkasi, Oakshire and Block 15 (from Eugene) and Brewer's Union (from Oakrdige). Nestled under the towering tree canopy and situated next to the rushing river, the beer garden is the perfect way to relax after a long day of riding. It's just that waking up in the morning might be a little tougher this year....

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:48 PM | Permalink

May 22, 2009

Jackson's Ride the Gorge - NOT to be Missed!

Experience the Columbia River Gorge like you've never seen it before on Jackson's Ride the Gorge, an incredibly supported ride through Oregon and Washington's stunning landscape on July 18. The well-planned course crosses bridges over the mighty Columbia and explores Oregon and Washington. You'll encounter "gorge"ous (I couldn't resist!) views on all three of the mostly-flat routes: 100 miles, 50 miles and a 14 mile family ride.

Continue reading "Jackson's Ride the Gorge - NOT to be Missed!"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:32 PM | Permalink

May 20, 2009

Local Business to Save the Twilight Crit

Portland is a world-class cycling city, well known for smart planning, innovative projects and thousands of people happily commuting to work - rain or shine. So it seems fitting that we have, a world-class street race - the Portland Twilight Criterium - that draws professional racers from around the world. 20,000 spectators flock to downtown Portland for a night of fast-paced racing action around the park blocks.

But this year, as the title sponsor bowed out in light of severe budget cuts, the Portland Twilight Criterium is facing the dire fate of being canceled. Determined not to let that happen, local race fans have stepped up to bring in the support of their businesses, including attorneys who specialize in bicycle law and bike shops. In hopes of rescuing this popular event, these business owners have banded together to raise the funds necessary to put on the event. Their admirable work is not over, and additional sponsors are still needed to give the race a confident green light.

Amazing things can happen here in Portland - success, creativity, forward thinking. In keeping with this spirit, the organizers hope your business will come out as a race fan too and bring professional racing to Downtown Portland this summer. For more information on how you or your business can be involved, contact Tom@GoodSportPromotion.com.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:15 PM | Permalink

May 19, 2009

Planning for a World-Class Cycle City

No lunch plans next Thursday? Take a spin over to PBOT's Bicycle Brown Bag lunch series, a chance to discuss cycling issues during your lunch break. PDOT brings in expert speakers and the audience has a chance to ask questions.

This month's topic is The Platinum Bicycle Master Plan - Planning for a World-Class Cycle City on Thursday, May 21th, 12:00 - 1:00. Since the first Bicycle Master Plan was adopted, Portland has more than doubled our bikeway network, to 300+ miles. We've added thousands of bicycle parking spaces. There are almost daily bike rides, events, and activities. We have a successful Safer Routes to School program and a burgeoning bicycle industry. Now it's time to look ahead. What are the next steps in growing a bikable, livable city?

Bring your own lunch and head to the Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, 2d floor - Room C. For more info on the Bicycle Brown Bag series, see their website.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:40 PM | Permalink

May 18, 2009

Pedal Potluck Picnic

The Pedal Potluck Picnic rides are returning for their fifth season of casual biking and delicious snacking. The rides traverse an average of 3-5 miles with a different route each time. The end destination is a mystery park or ark-like setting. Organizer Shawn Granton, a local historian with extensive cycling fun knowledge says, "The term 'park' will be used liberally here, so expect the unexpected!" At the endpoint the group enjoys a picnic dinner, potluck style. Participants are asked to bring food and drink to share (preferably vegetarian and vegan).

In the event of rain, the rides end at a covered destination. Pedal Potluck Picnics are a great way to meet other cyclists and see interesting parts of the city. The next picnic is May 19th starting at 6:30 from the Hawthorne Hostel, 3031 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

MORE INFO >>

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:24 PM | Permalink

May 15, 2009

Save Big on Rides

Do you like riding your bike? Do you like saving big? Do you like having a free beer handed to you at the finish line? Okay, if you said yes to at least two of those, you need to be an ORbike member! Membership pays for itself in no time as you rake in the deals on rides. We'll also give you a swag bag with over $100 in cool free stuff like fenders, coffee and more.

Check out our long list of rides that are member events, meaning you can get a discount. We partner with most of the great local rides and events - the rides you're already riding. As an ORbike member, you get to continue to ride, but your wallet will be a little bit thicker at the end of the season. That's pretty sweet. We also throw in fun stuff for our members, like free massage, extra free beers (or sodas) and VIP viewing at some of the largest races.

Join today! Click here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:01 PM | Permalink

May 11, 2009

Record Numbers for Reach the Beach: Volunteers Needed!

Reach the Beach, the annual gorgeous fundraising ride for the American Lung Association in Oregon, will reach a record of 3,000 riders this year! The ride is May 16th and volunteers are still needed. Hundreds of volunteers have already signed up, but the more volunteers there are, the more fun the ride is for everyone.

This event is a great opportunity to hang out in the gorgeous countryside, get a FREE beach party in Pacific City at the Pelican Pub, which includes a gigantic buffet lunch and a chance to sink your toes in the sand while you take in the amazing views (haystack rock, the ocean, the dunes....)

AND ALL THIS!:
* A hat
* Lunch or breakfast
* Delicious Nossa Familia coffee
* A chance to hang with thousands of bikers
* A day in the countryside AND at the beach!
* A chance to support a great cause

Sign up here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:50 PM | Permalink

May 7, 2009

Unicycle to the Beach!

Check out this cool video about a crew of people who are riding to the beach - all 100 miles - on ONE WHEEL - that's right, unicycling to the beach as a part of Reach the Beach on May 16th.

By the way, this ride is capped at 3,000 riders and it's filling up fast - so register before it is too late. The last day to register online (and save) is May 10th and if spaces are still available (the website will say) you can register at the start line.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:42 PM | Permalink

May 6, 2009

Reach the Beach Discussion Board

Reach the Beach is a great springtime tradition as thousands of cyclists pedal their way to a huge surfside party in Pacific City in support of the American Lung Association in Oregon. New this year, the event has a discussion board where you can offer or find carpool rides back from the beach, ask detailed route questions and learn more about this great ride.

Reach the Beach is May 16th and this is an ORbike member event. If you're an ORbike member, you'll save $10 when you register in advance online.

DISCUSSION BOARD >>

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:15 PM | Permalink

May 4, 2009

Portland Sistas Cycling

"Cause these Sistas Love to Cycle"

Portland Sistas Cycling is a group of African-American women who enjoy road cycling and want to promote the sport to women, especially women of color. From group rides to local bike clubs rides and charity rides, they encourage riders to join them for fun, fitness and the opportunity to explore the countryside from the seat of a bicycle. All riders and levels of fitness are welcome and the group pledges that no one is ever left behind.

The next ride is May 16th. Read more here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:41 PM | Permalink

April 30, 2009

Oregon Manifest 2009 Launches

The organizers of Oregon Manifest just launched their 2009 information - with exciting plans for this year. Most notably, the bike builder extravaganza will truly challenge builders with a competition to build the best all-terrain bike then actually ride it (or find a rider) for a 100 mile race along a course that incorporates terrain to put the bike to the test. How that bike fares, and how well the rider handles the steed, will be revealed.

Last year, Oregon Manifest burst onto the scene as a fresh alternative to the stuffy expos of yesteryear. Let's see how they wow us this year.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:01 PM | Permalink

April 22, 2009

It's Advocacy Time

Right now our transportation advocacy friends are in Salem lobbying with legislators. They've been down there yesterday and today for the Oregon Bike Summit. I'm sure all sorts of great ideas and outcomes will arise from the summit, and I look forward to getting reports back from our own Tom Knipe who is down there right now.

On the silver screen tonight, transportation advocacy takes center stage at Filmed by Bike's Going for the Gold program, featuring the work of Streetfilms. The program highlights advocacy projects around the world, everything from street infrastructure and car free days to advocate profiles and fun stuff. Catch it tonight (Wed, 4/22) at the Clinton Street Theater (SE Clinton Street and 26th in Portland) at 7pm. The cost is $6.

Congrats to all the ORbike members who joined us for 1/2 price screenings on Monday and Tuesday! This is just one of the many perks you can cash in on as an ORbike member, so join today!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:36 PM | Permalink

April 16, 2009

Insider Ride NEws

Our latest newsletter came out and it's filled with cool insider news on upcoming rides, deals just for ORbike members and more. If you're not on our newsletter list, join through the front page of our website. It's free, and we don't trade or sell your e-mail address or anything tacky like that.

Read the latest newsletter and archives here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:15 PM | Permalink

April 10, 2009

Brown Bag Lunch at PSU

No lunch plans next Thursday? Take a spin over to PSU. PBOT's Bicycle Brown Bag lunch series, usually held in the Portland building, is a chance to discuss cycling issues during your lunch break. PDOT brings in expert speakers and the audience has a chance to ask questions.

This month's topic is Be a Bicycle (Commuter) Champion! Encouraging Riding at Portland State University. On Thursday, April 16th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm you can learn some fun and easy ways to get your friends and colleagues to take bike commuting for a test ride - and to stick with it! This presentation is being organized in cooperation with PSU's Transportation Options Department but you don't have to be affiliated with PSU to attend.

Bring your own lunch and head to Smith Memorial Union Room 296, 1825 SW Broadway (at Montgomery). For more info on the Bicycle Brown Bag series, see their website.

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 6:05 PM | Permalink

March 24, 2009

No Shortage of Great Rides

The daffodils are blooming, cherry trees have set forth their hopeful delicate blossoms and the bikes are starting to come out of the garages. Sure, some of you have been riding, oh so dedicated, through the winter. But organized rides are just now starting to really pop for the season. We're currently working on our next issues of the ORbike newsletters to share with you some of our favorite upcoming rides and events. If you're not our our newsletter list, you should be. Sign up through the front page of our website.

Sign up | View archives

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 7:16 PM | Permalink

March 16, 2009

VIP Access to Filmed by Bike

Filmed by Bike has a cool option for those of you who want a night on the town: a VIP Access package. It includes New Deal Vodka's new Portland 88 (with a bike on the label), dinner for two, VIP access (no waiting in line) to the festival's opening night, beer tickets, chocolates from Wingnut Confections and more.

There are only a handful of VIP Access packages available, so if you want the royal treatment, get yours early.

[ more info ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:47 AM | Permalink

March 12, 2009

Bikes and Transit: Strategies for Growth

This month at the PDOT-sponsored Bicycle Brown Bag lunch series, the discussion is about strategies for biking and transit growth. The monthly event takes place at the Portland Building in room C of the second floor on Thursday, March 19th from 12:00-1:00 pm.
* As bike use and transit ridership numbers start to look like Amsterdam's how do we keep Portland, Portland?
* What about my inaliable right to put my bike on the bus?
* If my bike and I are inseparable, why would I need bike parking?

The lunch will cover answers to these questions and more - bring yours!

Colin Maher of TriMet will be presenting.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:52 PM | Permalink

March 7, 2009

Reach the Beach Launches Carpool + Discussion Board

Reach the Beach, which happens every May, just launched a carpool and message board for participants. The event offers participants four route options with distances of 26-100 miles, which results in a lot of questions and sometimes a need to carpool. The organizers hope the discussion board will help make that easier to coordinate.

The discussion board is also a chance to share ride stories and to ask questions. Right now there are three great rider profiles up there, two of which were originally articles we ran here on ORbike.

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This is an ORbike member event. If you're an ORbike member you'll save $10 at the time of registration. Contact us for your discount code.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:21 AM | Permalink

March 4, 2009

Honoring Awesome Bikers

How about donning a fedora while you wear your Lycra? Adding in a bow tie? I know, it sounds crazy, but if you've ever been to the Alice B. Toeclips Awards dinner, you know it's really quite possible. The annual awards dinner is an opportunity to honor the awesome bikers who help make Oregon a great place to ride.
The Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) put out the call and 34 of your fellow riders across the state were nominated for their impressive bike advocacy efforts. And, truth be told, cyclists clean up pretty nicely, making for quite a fun gala night.

Since 1995, Alice B. Toeclips, the tongue-in-cheek heroine of the BTA, and her coveted silver toeclip awards have crisscrossed the region from Ashland to Vancouver, WA. The awards are an effort to strengthen bicycle advocacy by recognizing individuals and community groups for stellar efforts that have improved bicycling conditions, encouraged children and adults to ride their bikes and made communities healthier and happier

Doors open at 5:00 PM for complimentary wine, hors-d'oeuvres, hobnobbing with the bicycle elite (and not-so-elite but equally honored) and a lush silent auction.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:19 PM | Permalink

February 23, 2009

Portland Transportation Budget Ignores Bikes

The Bicycle Transportation Alliance just released this important message:

Dear BTA members and friends,

The Portland Bureau of Transportation has published its Budget Request and we are very concerned about it. See what you can do to help.

Continue reading "Portland Transportation Budget Ignores Bikes"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:40 PM | Permalink

February 17, 2009

Not the Worst at All

Okay, by this point it really shouldn't come as any surprise when I tell you that the Worst Day of the Year Ride wasn't the worst at all. I mean, when will it ever rain or snow on that ride? The event is apparently cursed with gorgeous weather, even though it occurs on what is historically the worst weather time of the year in Oregon. It was sunny, warm and simply lovely as 3,000 riders came out in support of the Community Cycling Center.

You can check out the slide show here and join the Flickr group here.

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 11:25 PM | Permalink

February 12, 2009

Enjoy the Ride! From ORbike

We here at ORbike want you to enjoy the ride, that's why we just produced this very cool hat that we'll be unveiling them at the Worst Day of the Year Ride. Stop by the ORbike booth to get one. ORbike members get half off all merchandise.

These hats are really nicely embroidered with this image on the front and "Enjoy the Ride" on the back. I was so excited to get a picture up here I didn't get a shot of the back side. For now they are only available at events we're attending, and after the Worst Day of the Year Ride we won't be back out on the streets until Reach the Beach in May! So get them while you can.

I overhead one person say this is the coolest hat he's ever seen. And I wore mine to a crowded store tonight. While I'd like to think people were checking me out, I think it was the hat! Or was it that Valentine's Day is approaching and love is in the air? I don't know.

Click for a larger view

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:11 AM | Permalink

February 9, 2009

The Costume Question

Worst Day of the Year Ride, presented by SKS Germany, is coming up this Sunday, Feb 15th. SKS Germany is giving away free fenders to all riders who come in costume, and by the looks of things, TONS of people are planning on coming in costume. On the ride's Facebook listing, the common question has been "What should I wear for a costume?" Some of the riders are admitting they've never ridden on costume.

So we thought we'd take this opportunity to reach out to you veteran costumed riders who read this blog. What are your favorite ideas and what are you wearing to the ride?

Comments (7) | Posted by orbike at 6:28 PM | Permalink

February 6, 2009

Rider Profile: Bruce Hanson

Bruce Hanson loves riding his bike so much that when a friend invited him on the Worst Day of the Year ride, presented by SKS Germany, he jumped at the chance to sign up. But while many of you will roll out of bed and stroll on over to the start line, it's going to take Bruce and his friend a little longer - they're coming all the way from Toronto.

"I'm looking forward to reveling in the most bike-friendly town in the US, meeting all the interesting people, and trying out my new Bike Friday [folding bike]. I will be picking it up at the factory in Eugene two days before the ride."

Bruce rides several days a week and enjoys regularly cross country skiing in the winter, so he feels well prepared for whatever our fickle weather may throw his way on February 15th.

While in Portland, Bruce plans to "visit friends, local chocolate shops and brew-pubs." Combine that with the Worst Day of the Year Ride and it sounds like Bruce knows exactly how to truly experience Portland!

We'll see you and your friends out there, Bruce!

---

The Worst Day of the Year Ride is an ORbike member event. If you're an ORbike member, you'll save $5 when you register online and you'll get a free drink at the finish line.
REGISTER NOW

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:03 AM | Permalink

February 3, 2009

Help Diana Find a Bike

Diana, a friend of mine since the third grade, used to ride a bike in college. Then she moved to Portland for a while and definitely rode here. But when Diana's career as a newspaper photographer took off, riding a bike just didn't fit in with her erratic and rushed assignment schedule, so she let it fall by the wayside. Now Diana wants to get back into riding. She wants to commute by bike (she's in school) and ride for pleasure and exercise. Diana is active and fit, so riding regularly should come quite naturally to her.

But Diana has never had a decent bike. She used to ride a too-small mt. bike with knobbies and she doesn't know a lot about what's available these days. I want to help her find a bike that's a good fit for her needs and desires (we've talked about this extensively), and meets her price range. The plan is for her to take my suggestions and hit the bricks, visiting her neighborhood bike shops until she finds the service and product she's excited about.

So what would you recommend? Diana's looking for a solid bike, good for zipping around town, doesn't need to be ultra light weight, she'll maybe put on a rack, she'll ride exclusively on the road, and she'll mostly be commuting or going out for a weekend ride. She is hoping to spend no more than $800.

Comments (9) | Posted by orbike at 5:24 PM | Permalink

January 29, 2009

Bicycle Commuters are Healthier

It seems obvious that bicycle commuters would be healthier, and now Dutch studies prove it.

According to David Hembrow's blog A View From the Cycle Path, "A new report from the Dutch employer's organisation the TNO says that cycling employees save their employers €27M per year due to lower sickness costs."

This photo is from Streets Blog, an incredible organization and online encyclopedia for transportation, urban environmental, and public space issues. Their site also hosts an impressive collection of videos.

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 2:05 AM | Permalink

January 24, 2009

Snow Storm Stories

We couldn't resist sharing this awesome photo taken during the snow storm. The Worst Day of the Year Ride, presented by SKS Germany is not until February 15th, but it seems perhaps our snowy worst has already come.

Are you sick of talking about the storm? Did you ride through the snow? Did you love it or hate it? Tell us about your snow storm experiences!

This ride is an ORbike member event. If you're an ORbike member you'll save $5 at the time of registration and you'll receive a free beer or soda at the finish line.

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 12:47 AM | Permalink

January 20, 2009

When is the Worst Day, Really?

Yes, the flooding rivers, endless rains, ice and snow came. Real snow, the kind that sticks around for days, makes snowmen and covers the streets. So is the worst of it all over? Well, the Worst Day of the Year Ride, presented by SKS Germany, is still to come. The name may conjure up thoughts of snow piled high, tornadoes, tsunamis, hurricanes, ice storms and torrential down pours, but in truth it has never significantly rained on the Worst Day of the Year Ride.

This is an ORbike member event. If you're an ORbike member you'll save $5 at the time of registration and you'll receive a free beer or soda at the finish line.

Continue reading "When is the Worst Day, Really?"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:59 PM | Permalink

January 15, 2009

Call for Entries: Filmed by Bike

Check out this cool video from Filmed by Bike, Portland's annual festival of bike-themed independent short movies from around the world. The deadline for submitting your movie is February 15, 2009.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:33 AM | Permalink

January 9, 2009

Portland Bike Notables Photo Shoot

Every year, the Worst Day of the Year Ride poster features a group of people goofing around on their bikes and poking fun at Portland's fickle weather. Riding while wearing skis, holding umbrellas, flaunting bikinis, tucked within oversize parkas, etc. Coming on the heals of an amazing year for cycling, this year's signature photo features well known and not-as-well-known people who are driving forces in making Portland a great biking town.

Check out the extended play version of the photo shoot, featuring these dedicated folks having a blast on their bikes.

Continue reading "Portland Bike Notables Photo Shoot"

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 1:50 AM | Permalink

January 5, 2009

Fun videos

Throughout the year, Good Sport Promotion, the folks behind rides like the Worst Day of the Year Ride, has been putting together videos of some of the most fun rides in town. Check out their video channel on blip.tv to view them all.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:15 PM | Permalink

January 3, 2009

Party With Blind Pilot on the KBOO Bike Show

The KBOO Bike Show will celebrate the new year with a party live in the KBOO studios aired live on Wednesday, January 7th from 9-10am. The band Blind Pilot, a rock group that tours by bike, will perform live. Cyclists are invited to the station to share their wishes for a bikey new year, and reflections on the amazing year that we just had.

Cyclists have much to be thankful for and proud of from 2008. Some small mom-and-pop bike shops reported a 70% growth last summer. Portland was designated a Platinum-level city by the League of American Cyclists. Bikes became more accessible with a variety of styles for all body types. The city continued to make the streets easier to navigate by bike. There were more events than ever for people to participate in by bike. When the gas prices rose, more people got on bikes. And the list goes on!

Share your own stories of a great year for biking. Call the station during the program at 503-232-8187 or stop by and join the party. KBOO is located at 20 SE 8th in Portland. Tune in to 90.7 FM (live), KBOO.fm (live) or BikeShow.PortlandTransport.com (podcast + archive)

For more information, please contact Ayleen Crotty, Ayleen [at] Riseup.net.

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 3:23 AM | Permalink

December 31, 2008

Former Hot Lips Assistant Manager in Bicycling Mag

Local cyclist, racer, nice guy, and long-time (and former)Hot Lips Pizza employee Paul Laak is in this month's issue of Bicycling Magazine. Paul has been instrumental in making Hot Lips a more bike-friendly work place, and helping his coworkers get more involved in biking events. Paul recently moved to Washington to pursue new interests. Paul's also a fan of Midnight Mystery Rides and attends and participates in races. And you just might see him out at the upcoming Worst Day of the Year Ride.

Way to be famous, Paul!

See the full profile here.

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 4:21 AM | Permalink

December 27, 2008

What Are You Thankful For?

The closing of the year is a great time to reflect on our recent past, something we're all so busy we don't often take time to do. When I think about this past year, the summer in particular, the growth that small mom-n-pop bike shops experienced (way to go!) and the rise in cycling, I am so hopeful for the state of the world. Here in Oregon, we're doing something right, we have been for a while, and it's actually catching on. The benefits of cycling, for the cyclists and for the environs in which he or she cycles, are seemingly endless. So I feel really good about devoting a major portion of my life to cycling, talking about bikes and helping more people ride. The stellar year that Portland experienced just made it all that much more rewarding.

So what are you thankful for from this past year? Share your thoughts here.

You can also share your thoughts live on the KBOO Bike Show on Wednesday, January 7th from 9-10am. Blind Pilot, a band that tours by bike, will perform live in the studios and cyclists are invited down to the station (20 SE 8th in Portland) or the phone lines to share what they're thankful for and wishes for the new year. The KBOO Bike Show can be heard at 90.7fm (live), KBOO.fm (live) and BikeShow.PortlandTransport.com (podcast + archives).

Comments (15) | Posted by orbike at 2:53 AM | Permalink

December 24, 2008

Happy Holidays!

Happy holidays from all of us here at ORbike! It has been a great year for biking in Oregon. So I thought I'd share this fun little biking video from the folks at Wend Magazine. Apparently they biked when the snow was just a dusting on the ground. I wonder if they attempted again once the real snow came (I know I did! And it was great!)

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 12:04 AM | Permalink

December 22, 2008

Four Quirky Rides - a Great Gift!

Shopping for friends and loved ones can be hard. You want to get something they'll love, and something meaningful, but who has the time to be running all around town? So we've done the dirty work for you. We put together a guide with our favorite gift options for this holiday season - all of which are gifts of a FREE RIDE!

We've even included a special four-ride Fun Package that gets riders in to the Worst Day of the Year Ride, The Night Ride, the Hottest Day of the Year Ride and Tour de Lab at a savings of $26. But savings aside, these four rides are so fun. They each got great food, cool routes, relatively flat courses, quirky themes and hundreds of other enthusiastic riders. These rides are not to be missed, so buy a gift pack and be finished with your holiday shopping.
[ read the full list ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:46 PM | Permalink

December 19, 2008

Oh Flo!

This fall we ran a series of interviews with people who were racing cyclocross. One of the people we profiled was Flo Leibowitz, a 57-year-old singlespeed racer who is blind in one eye. Fellow rider Melissa Boyd considers Flo a mentor and suggested we interview her. Flo's cool and all, but the real shocker in our interview was the discovery that she doesn't like mud. That's right, Flo loves cross but doesn't like to get muddy.

So imagine our delight when this photo arrive in our mailbox! This is Flo (R) chillin with Melissa after a race. Like the focused racer she is, Flo had no idea she was so muddy until the race was over, "I'm glad I didn't realize it was happening till it happened!"

Bring profiled here on the blog and on the ORbike newsletter has been a great experience for Flo, "All kinds of folks on the OSU campus [where she teaches] have said they saw the column....that I had no clue were bike fans. It has been a great icebreaker!"

Congrats on a great racing season, Flo! Here's to many more muddy races to come your way!

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 2:38 AM | Permalink

December 16, 2008

Playing in the Snow

Chicago has a movement called Bike Winter that strives to help people stay motivated to bike through the winter. Brrrr! Fortunately our winters aren't so snowy and icy, making winter riding options a little more reasonable (so long as you keep the rain out). So some ORbike fans and I decided to pretend we were in Chicago (where I'm originally from) and play around in the snow on our bikes. We weren't sure how well our various skinny and sort of tread-y tires would handle the ice. Check out our experience on this slide show.

We'll probably head out once more if it snows again, but we couldn't get a whole lot in before my camera froze! (I'm taking suggestions on how to handle that issue - I have a Nikon digital SLR and didn't expect it to freeze in 25 degree weather). Click the SHOW INFO button and it's more interesting.

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 3:33 AM | Permalink

December 10, 2008

Raise Your Glass: Bike Craft is Tonight

The final list of crafters for tonight's BikeCraft IV has finally been released, and if merely looking over the list isn't enough to get you excited, here's more info on this sure-to-be-raucous affair. Bikers don't party, or craft, lightly, and this year's fair is being held at Roots Brewing. Beer, bikers, crafts and holiday cheer. That's a recipe for fun, if you ask me.

The event starts at 5:30. Roots is located at SE 7th and Hawthorne in Portland. Bring cash as most vendors won't take checks or cards. I'll be hanging out at the Wood-Craft-Lawn booth, so stop by to say hi and let's clink glasses to celebrate another amazing year of riding bikes in Portland.

[ see full list ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:32 AM | Permalink

December 9, 2008

You Know You're a Cyclist if...

Love 'em or hate 'em, "You Know You're a ____ if ____" lists area always filled with an insider's yuks. So here's one for the cyclists. It comes to us courtesy of Joe Kurmaskie, aka the Metal Cowboy.

Continue reading "You Know You're a Cyclist if..."

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 6:34 PM | Permalink

December 3, 2008

BikeCraft IV

BikeCraft, the bike-lover's gift bazaar that showcases local, handmade, bike-themed arts, crafts, fashion, and more, is Wednesday, December 10th at Roots Organic Brewing (SE 7th and Hawthorne). Roots recently expanded into the space next door so there will be plenty of room for this popular craft fair. Shopping for holiday gifts at BikeCraft is a great way to support local artists and find unique items for people you love. You'll see things that you definitely can't find elsewhere.

Last year the fair featured locally-made "Smittens" bike glove-mittens, bike-themed clocks, original stencil paintings by the amazingly talented Tiago DeJerk, earthenware plates with bike motifs, bike-part furniture, messenger bags, cycling caps, t-shirts, zines, patches, stickers, and more. This year Filmed by Bike will be unveiling a Greatest Hits DVD, designed by Stumptown Printers, and a first-ever t-shirt.

BikeCraft is also a fun bikers' party. You can grab a beer, mingle, check out the booths and clink your glass to celebrate another great year of cycling in Oregon.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:56 PM | Permalink

December 2, 2008

Keith Tichnor Benefit Ride

The Portland Wheelmen are banding together to help long-time club member Keith Ticknor and his family. Keith, a member of the PWTC since 1979, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in July. The Portland Wheelmen are dedicated to helping the Ticknor family with their financial difficulties and they've organized a ride for Saturday December 20 at 11:00am to raise funds.

The ride will start at the parking lot at 1777 SE Milport Rd (17th & Waverly Dr). It will be a flat ride that will cover about 20 miles, followed by a pot-luck lunch. Read the full details here. For more information, e-mail club member Phil Brown: QuickXote [at] Comcast.net.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:12 PM | Permalink

November 26, 2008

The Best Gift Ideas

Shopping for friends and loved ones can be hard. You want to get something they'll love, and something meaningful, but who has the time to be running all around town? So we've done the dirty work for you. We put together a guide with our favorite gift options for this holiday season - all of which are gifts of a FREE RIDE!

We've even included a special four-ride Fun Package that gets riders in to the Worst Day of the Year Ride, The Night Ride, the Hottest Day of the Year Ride and Tour de Lab at a savings of $26. But savings aside, these four rides are so fun. They each got great food, cool routes, relatively flat courses, quirky themes and hundreds of other enthusiastic riders. These rides are not to be missed, so buy a gift pack and be finished with your holiday shopping.
[ read the full list ]

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 12:25 AM | Permalink

November 12, 2008

Bicycle Brown Bag: Celebrate Biking in the Rain

This month at PDOT's Bicycle Brown Bag series: Celebrate Biking in the Rain! Why celebrate winter riding? Let me count the ways...

Easier to find bike parking than in the summer;
You feel so good when you get inside again;
Eat as much holiday food as you want, you'll need the calories to stay warm...
Bring your best reasons to the Brown Bag!

Thursday, Nov. 20th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Portland State University
Smith Memorial Union Rm 238
1825 SW Broadway (please note this new location)
Bring your lunch!

More info is on the PDOT Brown Bag website or contact Timo Forsberg, Timothy.Forsberg [at] PDXTrans.org.

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 10:52 PM | Permalink

November 6, 2008

Racer Profile: Flo Leibowitz

Flo Leibowitz got into cyclocross like a lot of other cyclists just testing out the sport: on her commuter bike. But unlike most other riders, once she was hooked, which happened pretty much right away, she didn't swap her Bianchi San Jose out for a more cross-styled bike. "That bike is a singlespeed, and that's the real serendipity in it. It is the only bike I own that can take cross tires. But I realized that I really liked not having to worry about shifting and now I won't race cross any other way. I love it when people yell 'Go single-speed!'"

She's riding a single speed commuter bike, she's 57 and she is blind in one eye. Flo explains it away simply, "I love the 'run what ya brung' mentality."

Continue reading "Racer Profile: Flo Leibowitz"

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 1:11 AM | Permalink

November 5, 2008

Best of 2008 - Vote Now!

Every year, CompetitorNW Magazine puts together a list of the best events from the year, as voted on by readers of the magazine. Last year, Mt. Bike Oregon and Reach the Beach, both ORbike member events, were voted the best! No question about it, those two events, organized by Good Sport Promotion, definitely deserved the honor.

So what were your favorite events of 2008? You can weigh in here on the CompetitorNW website. And in case you need a refresher on the season, we really liked all of the ORbike member events. See the list here. Worst Day of the Year Ride.... Portland Century.... Just some suggestions!

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 12:51 AM | Permalink

November 4, 2008

Help Pick Scenic Bikeways

How do scenic roads and routes get chosen? Well, in Oregon, our scenic bikeways will be chosen by real cyclists like you! This just in from Oregon Parks and Recreation:

Volunteers are needed to help pick scenic bikeways. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is recruiting volunteers to serve on a new advisory committee that will evaluate bicycle routes nominated for Oregon Scenic Bikeway status.

A partnership between Cycle Oregon, Travel Oregon, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), and OPRD led to a recently adopted revised Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) creating the committee and the Oregon Scenic Bikeway program. The partnership had spearheaded a pilot project in 2005 that established the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway.

More information about the committee and how to apply is available by calling Alexandra Phillips, OPRD's state bicycle recreation coordinator, at 503-986-0631.

Continue reading "Help Pick Scenic Bikeways"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:52 PM | Permalink

November 3, 2008

Election Party to Support BTA

From BikePortland.org, this election night party will benefit several non-profit organizations, including the Bicycle Transportation Alliance:

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:24 AM | Permalink

October 23, 2008

Racer Profile: Candy Walker

Candy Walker took up cycling in 2002 to train and ride in the California AIDS Ride in memory her mother Ann who died of AIDS in 1991. "It was a life changing experience for me in many ways," she says. "It was my introduction to road riding, it widened my circle of friends, and I met a great guy who also shared my love for cycling." In 2003 she was also introduced to mt. biking, so starting cyclocross has been a natural fit for her. "For me it is the perfect balance of both sports."

Candy has always been athletic, but some sports were really hard on her body. As she started cycling more, she quickly realized it was something that felt great and she knew she'd be able to do it for many years. "I could stay fit, and go places on my bike that I had never been to."

Candy, who lives in Eugene, early on discovered that joining a team was an important component to racing "I learn a ton on every ride." So she started racing stage races, road races and mt. bike races pretty much right of the bat. She won in her category for the Test of Endurance, a 50-mile mt. bike race. "Oh yes," she adds, "I forgot to mention this all began when I turned 40."

Continue reading "Racer Profile: Candy Walker"

Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 11:23 PM | Permalink

October 20, 2008

Never will a daredevil succeed in being champion of cyclocross!

"Participate in cyclocross; encourage your friends to participate; popularize it around you... Never will a daredevil succeed in being champion of cyclocross!" From Advice for Friends of Cyclocross by Eugène Christophe, 1921.

This photo illustrates "the manner of crossing a thicket" in cyclocross. But it wasn't taken at a Cross Crusade race. That's 1921 authentic. It is part of a site that features an article quoted in its entirety from a 1921 issue of Le Miroir Des Sports, a then-popular French sports weekly. Joel Metz, a member of the Magpie Messenger collective, put together this historical feature. "There are some quite notable differences from modern cyclocross in the then relatively new sport - primarily the much stronger similarity to cross-country running (thus the name "cross-country cyclo-pédestre"). You can check it out in English here or in French here.

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 8:11 PM | Permalink

October 17, 2008

Yahoo! Bike Cams

Even if you're exceptionally coordinated, riding your bike while snapping pictures might prove disastrous. I'm sure bicycle documentarian extraordinaire Jonathan Maus, of BikePortland.org, has any horror stories. He takes some sweet shots at bike events, even if it means he's in a tricky situation.

But Yahoo! unleashed a fleet of purple bikes on the world that document the view all by themselves. They're dubbed "purple pedals," and each one comes outfitted with a camera phone mounted on the handlebars in a waterproof housing. This accessory takes a photo every 60 seconds as the wheels roll and automatically uploads the images to a Flickr map. Follow the adventures online or tell Yahoo! in 200 words or less why you deserve a purple bike of your own. [ more info ]

Watch this purple pedal get "Copenhagen-ized"

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 5:53 PM | Permalink

October 15, 2008

A Super Bike Weeked

This past weekend was filled with fun. The Oregon Manifest handbuilt bike show was very well done. Builders came from all over the region to show off their bikes, mad skills and to talk with people about what they do. True to celebrating Portland builders, the show served local beers, VooDoo doughnuts and Stumptown coffee. I didn't get to spend a lot of time at the show, but I do know that it was packed all day on Saturday. The party on Friday night was hoppin', with a retrospective screening of Filmed by Bike's greatest hits and portraits of the builders. Saturday night featured roller races, hosted by Rapha, which were a hoot, though not wildly attended. Racers had to speed on rollers, then run a lap around the room while carrying a kid's bike. Most competitors wore costumery. And then to round things out Portland style, Sunday was a Cyclocross race with a special class just for builders.

You can be sure that Oregon Manifest will be back next year, and I'm sure they'll manage to somehow out-do this year. Congrats to the builders, reclaiming a mass-produced skill and making it a craft, and to the organizers who had the vision to make the show happen.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:18 AM | Permalink

October 9, 2008

Greatest Hits of Filmed by Bike

Filmed by Bike, Portland's film festival about bikes, is celebrating six stellar years with Filmed by Bike Retro - Presented by River City Bicycles tomorrow night (10/10). This free screening will take place at Wieden+Kennedy (224 NW 13th) in conjunction with the Oregon Manifest (handbuilt bike show) Opening Night Blowout. Movies will show at 8PM and 9PM and the event is free.

At this best of screening, you'll be treated to crowd favorites from the last six years, nearly-lost footage, movies that were banned from other cities and removed from the internet, the unveiling of the 2009 trailer and on-the-street footage from 2008.

Comments (5) | Posted by orbike at 7:53 AM | Permalink

October 8, 2008

Builder Profile: John Bergschneider | Goodtimes

Good times come when riding bikes, that's why John Bergschneider of Goodtimes Bicycles, based outside of Ashland, OR, is so in love with frambuilding. "I started this business to improve my life," says John. "It's an investment in me. And in doing so, I contribute to an industry that I believe in. This includes meeting and being around like minded people."

"I've been fabricating light duty touring, cyclocross and city commuter frames constructed out of steel tubing. Most of my clients opt for a complimentary, handmade, fork and stem. The type of joinery is achieved by gas torch and brass rod. Fillet brazing allows me to fully customize the angles of the tubes, is very strong and when done right leaves smooth, clean lines. When all is said and done, the frame and its bits go up to Keith Anderson. Keith lays the sweet, sweet wet paint."

Continue reading "Builder Profile: John Bergschneider | Goodtimes"

Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 10:29 AM | Permalink

October 6, 2008

Builder Profile: Curtis Inglis | Retrotec + Inglis

Oregon Manifest is a handbuilt bike show on October 10th-12th in Portland and we're profiling some of the builders who will be there.

Curtis Inglis is a duo-themed builder who creates cruiser-styles bikes under the name Retrotec and traditional straight-tube bikes under the name Inglis. Though Curtis enjoys the building process for all of this bikes, he says he experiences a magical moment when working on the Retrotec bikes, "There is something about bending tubing until you get a certain look. When all the bends flow together and make a bike not just a bike with curved tube."

Continue reading "Builder Profile: Curtis Inglis | Retrotec + Inglis"

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 10:17 AM | Permalink

October 2, 2008

Builder Profile: Greg Heath | Donkelope

Greg Heath, the man behind Donkelope Bikes in Bellingham, WA, is one of about 40 bicycle builders who will be at Oregon Manifest, the hanbuilt bike show extravaganza October 10-12th in Portland. Including the builders, there will be 65+ overall exhibitors at this goin'-down-in-the-history-books affair. So who are these hardworking builders with amazing attention to the finest of details? We're starting with Greg and offering you an intimate look into the lives of frambuilders.

Greg Heath believes that "the world needs to know the passion and of course hard work behind each frame built. The fact that the frame is built with one person in mind. It will be an extension of the person. Whether it be speed or style."

Greg's background as a BMXer led him to create bikes that can handle abuse and he wants people to ride his bikes hard. His Donkelope bikes are not your average bike, or donkey. Greg doesn't want you to tread lightly and treat these as pristine riding machines; they're built strong for tough, hard riding.

Continue reading "Builder Profile: Greg Heath | Donkelope"

Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 7:48 PM | Permalink

September 30, 2008

Racer Profile: Brian Johnson

In the fall of 2005 Brian Johnson was reading an article in Willamette Week about the Cross Crusade and thought it sounded pretty ridiculous. But when he saw that the first race would be happening at Alpenrose Dairy, just blocks from his house, he changed his tune and decided to give it a try. "The race was rainy, sloppy, goopy, slippery and over in 45 minutes," he says. "As a mountain biker having fallen from grace, I loved it and wanted more." The next season Brian came fully decked out in a new cyclocross bike "and Cycocross got even more fun!"

Brian, a 37-year-old who loves riding bikes, says training is really not his style. "I work and I'm a family man so riding time is at a premium, so when I get out I do like to maximize the opportunity by pushing myself, throwing in some "fartlek" intervals by charging up hills, racing to a sign-post, that sort of thing. But I still like to have fun - it's got to be fun."

And while racing cyclocross really is fun for Brian, the sport is not without it's challenges. Sometimes he finds it difficult to endure the elements, or finding the extra little bit within himself to push himself through the next lap or over the next barrier "and doing that again and again when I feel like I'd rather just lay down and take a nap," he says.

True to the spirit of cyclocross, Brian has a great attitude about completing races and considers every race a victory.

Continue reading "Racer Profile: Brian Johnson"

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 8:36 PM | Permalink

September 29, 2008

Oregon Manifest

The bicycle industry has been experiencing a banner year and Portland is at the heart of it. A new study just released by Alta Planning and Design concluded a 38% growth in Portland's bike economy since 2006! Perfect timing for Oregon Manifest, the collective vision of Portland's cycling and creative communities who've come together to dream up and develop the most original, spirited and spectacle-laden boutique bike show in the nation. The show will feature an unconquerable mix of custom framebuilders, bike-centric vendors, bike culture squads and blowout parties, crowned with a Sunday cross race to bring home the glory.

At the Friday night Opening Night Blowout, there will be an special retro screening of the best Filmed by Bike movies from the last six years of this Portland film festival. The free screening takes place at the amphitheater of Wieden+Kennedy, 224 NW 13th Avenue, times TBA. It's going to be monumental, it's going to be fun and it's going to be more bike love than you can wrap your bar tape around. This one? It's going down in the history books. The Blowout kicks off at 7:01pm and goes until midnight. In the fine words of the Oregon Manifest organizers, "Ladies and Gentlemen, this is where we get down!"

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 6:33 PM | Permalink

September 26, 2008

Jerks vs. Everybody Else

I'm one of the hosts of the KBOO Bike Show, and that combined with editing this blog means that people constantly speak with me about bikes vs. cars: things bikers should do better, drivers should do better, who is right, who is wrong and tension on the road. I struggle with this topic - constantly wanting to remind people that we all make mistakes and we could all stand to be more respectful on the road. I am exhausted from hearing stories of bikers running stop signs because it is not the fact that they are on a bike that is the problem, it's how they are navigating the road.

So I was grateful for Shelby Wood's article in today's Oregonian where she chronicled her experience starting as a bike commuter. Wood offers an authentic view of what it is like for someone to start commuting: the fear of crossing lanes to make a left turn, being sure she'll wipe out on a steep hill. And at the end of the article, Wood summed up road tension so accurately when she said, "It's not cyclists versus motorists. It's jerks versus everybody else."

No longer is the car the main way we all get around. There is more of a mix of transportation modes than ever before. So let's see what we can all do, personally, to share the road. We shouldn't need signage and regulations to remind us to be respectful of the other road users around us.

Read the full article here.

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 6:35 PM | Permalink

September 25, 2008

Racer Profile: Tori Bortman

People who know Tori Bortman and her outgoing personality probably aren't surprised that she was a theater major in college, but they may be surprised to know that, as a kid, she was the last pick for every single team. Surprised, that is, because Tori has taken to cyclocross racing like a fish to water.

"At the first race I watched there was mud, cowbells, beer and every spectator was a cheerleader. I never thought it would be me, but I had seen the light. Or more accurately the good times within the rain, cold and muck. This was racing where no one cared if you won but everyone was concerned with you having a good time. Racing against yourself and for the greater good of fitness and mud in yer eye. Silly stuff. I was in love."

Sure, Tori has fun with it, but she also trains hard. "I do my regular rides throughout the summer. Two to four days a week at 25-60miles. I try to run at least once or twice a week as well. This is base training for what comes later." Tori likes to participate in the Cross Crusade series clinics. It's also at that time that she starts to train at local parks. "I find ones where I can do laps that imitate the cross courses - barriers, uphills, stairs, dirt, gravel - and do interval training in laps." And, ever a determined person, Tori adds that she takes on special challenges to push herself.

Continue reading "Racer Profile: Tori Bortman"

Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 12:58 AM | Permalink