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 (1) | 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

September 24, 2008

Racer Profile Series: Fall Means Cyclocross

No longer does the fall season mean it's time to hang up the bike, grab a good book and curl up inside. When fall comes, the cyclocross fans come out in droves. Rain, shine, mud - they don't care. In fact, the more mud, the more thrilling the race. I love cyclocross because it's a sport that is entertaining to watch. But even more than that, the racers and organizers have fun with the races. They don costumes, stage drinking spots on course (optional short cuts if you drink a shot, for instance) and encourage crowd participation.

Maybe cyclocross has been such a hit here in Oregon because we're largely outdoorsy people who are used to being out in the rain and fickle weather. Or maybe it's just that there's something extra goofy about Oregonians who ride and make the races fun.

So we thought we'd take this season to get to know some of those racers. Who is racing this season? And why? We'll be talking with cyclocross veterans and brand new racers, including our own Tom Knipe, an ORbike team member who dubs himself the "commuter dad". You can read Tom's first installment here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:39 AM | Permalink

September 19, 2008

Commuter Dad Tries On Racing

By ORbike team member Tom Knipe

This past Sunday, I considered every excuse not to take part in my first bike race in 10 years - a so-called farm crit: Kruger's Kermesse at Kruger's Farm on Sauvie Island. I hadn't trained. I'm carrying 20 pounds of extra weight that I affectionately refer to as my "dad fat" (a price that I once was happy to pay for my two wonderful kids under the age of three, but am now growing tired of). No one was really expecting me to be there.

And I didn't have a bike...

The notion started at a family dinner a couple of weeks ago at the house of Beth and Joe Kurmaskie (a.k.a. the Metal Cowboy). Kris Schamp, the organizer behind Kruger's Kermesse, was at the dinner table with us. When I told him that I had been considering trying out cyclocross this year, Kris immediately assured me that his race would be a "good pre-cyclocross training race with bumpy roads, but a flat course and no dismounts." He also offered to solve my no-bike problem by lending me his very nice and tall cross bike. Perfect. Joe, ever the motivator, buoyantly offered to join me for moral support, and the date went on the family calendar.

I should qualify the no-bike part. I have a dinged-up 1974 custom Colin Laing steel touring bike with front and rear racks, side-pull brakes, full fenders, and ball joint attachment for my kids' Chariot trailer on the rear axle. The only thing remotely "cyclocross" about my bike is that it has a beefed up rear wheel (for carrying laptop, a change of clothes, and 20 lbs of 'dad fat' between North Portland and downtown), and cyclocross style brake levers on the top of the handlebars. It's a commuter. And so am I.

Continue reading "Commuter Dad Tries On Racing"

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:38 PM | Permalink

September 16, 2008

Community Cycling Center Benefit

Russell St. BBQ is celebrating its 5th anniversary by throwing a party for the Community Cycling Center, a non-profit organization in Portland that helps provide bikes and programs to low-income youth. The BBQ will take place at Wilshire Park, NE 33rd and Skidmore on Saturday, September 20th from 12-4. Organizers say it's happening rain or shine, so bring a picnic blanket, friends and settle in for an afternoon of bicycle fun in the park.

Plates of the renowned Russell St. BBQ with all the fixins plus sweet tea or lemonade will be sold for for only $5, a steal of a deal if you know how yummy Russell St. is. Alan Singley and Pants Machine and Julia Dawn will perform live and there will be a bicycle photo booth.

Proceeds from the food sales will support the Community Cycling Center's Holiday Bike Drive, a program that provides bikes to children in need during the winter holiday season.

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

September 10, 2008

Parents on Bikes Presentation

This month at PDOT's Bicycle Brown Bag series, the lunchtime free presentations, the topic is Parents on Bikes: Bike & Walk to School Day all year-round! School. Work. Shopping. Playdates. How do they do it? Find out from our panel of biking parents the secrets to cycle success with kids in tow. The presentation is Thursday, Sept. 18th, from 12:00-1:00 pm in the Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, second floor, Room C. Bring your lunch and get ready for a great discussion.

Bike + Walk to School Day is Wednesday, October 8th. Parents and kids statewide are encouraged to join millions around the world who are improving their health, their community and having a ton of fun by walking or rolling to school.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:25 PM | Permalink

September 2, 2008

Cyclocross on the Radio

Are you a cyclocross racer? What has it been like for you? Why do you race? Love the mud? Hate the mud? It is what it is?

Wednesday, September 3 on the KBOO Bike Show we'll be talking about cyclocross and they want to hear from you! Call in with your experience during the second half of the program (9:30-10am) -- 503-231-8187

THE KBOO BIKE SHOW
Airing bicycle news, views and culture since 2001
1st Wednesday of the month
90.7fm
9-10am
Podcast and archives - click here.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:20 PM | Permalink

August 31, 2008

Tour de Lab

Tour de Lab is coming up on September 7th, and it proves to be a very hilly way to wind down the event season! There are two routes on this ride, a benefit for Dove Lewis, the non-profit animal emergency hospital. The two routes wind their way from Lucky Lab to Lucky Lab, while riders earn their doggie gear along the way: ears, tail and nose. At the finish line there's a big hot dog-making bar and participants all get a commemorative pint glass.

Both routes have climbing up to Multnomah Village in SW Portland. For the Puppy Dog route, it's a steady incline up Terwilliger. For the Big Dog (30-mile challenge) route, the course is a steep, steep climb through the gorgeous Riverview Cemetery. After that, for the Puppy Dogs it's pretty smooth sailing, but for the Big Dogs they'll climb Council Crest on their way to Lucky Lab NW! The route is along very quaint, tiny residential roads for most of the way - lovely and challenging all wrapped into one.

You can switch your route at the start line or any of the rest stops without penalty or shame - all for the love of Dove.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:27 PM | Permalink

August 22, 2008

Portland Century - Riders Flock to Portland

Riders from all over the country are flocking to Portland this weekend for the annual Portland Century, Portland's premier century ride. Riders are coming from 14 states and Canada to get a taste of some of the best cycling in the nation.

Emily Heinz and her husband are from Meridian, Idaho, and they're just a few of the many people from outside Oregon who are excited to ride this weekend. After reading about the ride in Bicycling magazine, Emily knew it was the ride for her. "It was listed as one of the top things to do in August. My Husband and I thought it would be fun and the ride fit perfectly in our vacation time. " But, truth be told, Emily is not really an outsider. Emily was born in Portland and raised in Ontario, in Eastern Oregon. So she's really excited to come back to see family and the greenery of Portland. "Meridian is high desert and very dry," she says. "I love that things are always green in Portland!"

Emily says she usually rides 25-30 miles and four times a week, so she has chosen the half century route. "I haven't experienced a full century yet so I'm not sure what the physical expectations are. I don't want to find out those expectations during vacation." She'll be out there riding with her husband and her dad.

Though Emily knows Portland is a really great place to ride, she says that the Meridian/Boise area is also a fabulous place to be on a bike. "There are endless route possibilities and drivers are usually quite courteous."

So if you're not yet signed up for this great ride, there is still time to register. You can go to the pre-ride party tomorrow or register at the event on Sunday. See the website for details.

Comments (6) | Posted by orbike at 7:07 PM | Permalink

August 20, 2008

Favorite Rain Jacket?

I know, I really shouldn't be posing this question in August, at least here in the Northwest where our summers are supposed to be our secret Hawaiian summers filled with sunshine (if only for a few short months) but today it was raining like crazy and my rain jacket didn't didn't hold up. After six solid years of keeping me dry, my Burley rain jacket is no longer in service. I've tried Nikwax and all the other coatings and wash-ins, but finally the jacket is giving way.

I want to be set up in time for the real rainy season with fresh gear that's going to last. After all, solid rain gear is the most important part of staying happy through the rainy season.

So what do you wear? Is it breathable? Light weight? Stylish? Tell us all about it.

Comments (14) | Posted by orbike at 5:18 PM | Permalink

August 18, 2008

Rider Profile: Lydia Cox

Lydia Cox is the School, Youth & Family Program Coordinator for Hands on Greater Portland, the beneficiary of the Portland Century, so naturally she's quite excited to be participating in the ride. Hands on Greater Portland is an organization that promotes volunteerism in Portland. They help people volunteer so that volunteers can keep Portland great.

So what does Lydia like about Portland? "I think my favorite aspect of Portland is being so close to so many different landscapes: Forest and Washington parks, the Columbia Gorge, the Pacific coast, Mt. St. Helens, etc. Portland is an amazing city to live in if you want to be part of a progressive, urban community, while maintaining a close connection with the natural environment. Even within the city, which is extremely accessible in size, it is brilliant to be able to ride up to Mt. Tabor for a picnic, then head downtown or to a busier neighborhood to meet up with friends; this city is massively versatile."

Continue reading "Rider Profile: Lydia Cox"

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

August 14, 2008

Bicycle Champions at the Brown Bag

Portland Department of Transportation has been running a lunchtime discussion series called the Bicycle Brown Bag. These lectures are a great opportunity to learn about bicycling topics while you have lunch. The lectures take place at the Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, 2nd floor. This month the series will discuss "Bike Champions: Turning the Bike-Curious to Bike Commuters" in celebration of the Bike Commute Challenge in September.

So bring your lunch and join in on the conversation on Thursday, August 21st from 12:00 - 1:00 pm. For more info on the Bicycle Brown Bag series, see the PDOT website.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:10 PM | Permalink

August 12, 2008

Rider Profile: Kary Kanalz

Kary Kanalz is one of the many people who is riding in this year's Portland Century, Portland's premier century ride with unrivaled support. The ride is a chance to celebrate Portland in all it's beauty and to experience it from atop the saddle.

As a Portland native, Kary says her favorite aspect of the region is the beautiful scenery and the landscape of downtown. "I have always appreciated the fact that we can get to the beach and the mountains in a short while," she says. "I appreciate the beauty of our state,so just being part of 'the ride' will be a joy." Kary signed up to participate in the Full Century, so she'll be riding 100 miles with some pretty steep climbing out near Sandy. And is she ready? Oh yeah. "This will be my second century this year, so definitely yes I am up for the hills! That is always my challenge. I am riding with a few friends that are avid riders."

So look for Kary out there on the ride!

This is an ORbike member event! If you're an ORbike member and you register in advance online, you will save $30!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:25 PM | Permalink

Mt. Biking 101

With all this mt. biking activity happening, I thought now might be a good time to go over some mt. biking 101 for those of you who are looking to get started. Mt. Bike Oregon is this weekend, the Oregonian just did a travel section article about MBO, the Forest Park trail work parties led by PUMP have had great attendance and all around there is tons of enthusiasm for mt. biking.

First off, MBO really is a great event to attend even if you're new to mt. biking. There are clinics, demo bikes you can test ride on the trails, flat easy trails, guides to show you the way, non-biking activities for when you need a break and tons of cool people all around you with friendly, free advice.

Another good resource is MTBR.com, an online mt. biking site that has an extremely active forums feature where the Beginner's Corner is particularly great. The forums have 29,668 active members, they're run really well, and it's a great place to get mt. bike info. If you're headed to ride in a new place, check out the forum for that region and ask the locals. These people are really tapped in to the local trails and have the best info. There are also forums for deals, family riding, tandem mt. biking, gear, and much more. Overall, it's a great resource where people who really ride will have advice to offer.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:48 PM | Permalink

August 11, 2008

Cool Article on Mt. Bike Oregon

We've been shouting it from the mountain peaks for a long time now: Mt. Bike Oregon is awesome! But don't just take our word for it. Check out this cool article that came out in the Sunday Oregonian travel section.

If you dig what you read there, you can still register for MBO in advance and save $30 or register at the event for $309. If you're an ORbike member, you'll save an additional $20 and get a free sports massage in camp.

[ read the full article ]

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

August 8, 2008

Health Net Portland Twilight Criterium

Tonight is the Health Net Portland Twilight Criterium! If you're an ORbike member you'll be enjoying sweet viewing, food a beer in the VIP lounge. There's no better spot on course to catch all the hot racing action.

The event starts at 5:30 pm in the North Park Blocks. There are food vendors, a free helmet giveaway for kids from Health Net, music and more as you watch pro racers circle the park blocks at top speeds. It's totally exciting and not to be missed!

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:27 PM | Permalink

August 7, 2008

Women's Intro to Bicycle Racing Clinic

The last clinic of the season is Monday August 11th If you haven't made it out this season than you have one more chance. The organizer, Jim Anderson, says they have had huge success with this series of clinics. Never tried bicycle racing and always wanted to see what it was all about?
Want to meet other women racers to ride and race with? Then this clinic is perfect for you. You don't need to have attended the other clinics.

The clinic includes the basics of what bike racing is about led by Kendra Wenzel of Wenzel Coaching and other top racers, along with Q and A. The event will be held prior to the Women's Novice race starting at 5:45 pm - then race at 6:20 pm, and then a re-group when finished for a debriefing. There are giveaways and raffles for participants, too.

Race Details - Races run May 5th to August 25th at Portland International Raceway (PIR). The course is a flat and wide 1.9-mile loop with excellent quality pavement. Race is $13.00, $5.00 jr. women, Clinic is free! Helmets required!

[ MORE INFO ]

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:09 PM | Permalink

July 31, 2008

All Your Summer Faves - Plus Bikes!

Remember when summertime meant no school, no worries and bike riding around the neighborhood? Lemonade stands, watermelon, sundaes, squirt guns and Slip n' Slides? The Hottest Day of the Year Ride is a chance to re-live and re-love all of that. This day of fun in the sun on two wheels features all of that - and more. You'll start and finish at the Lucky Lab NW - where a finish line make-your-own sundae feast awaits! Last year the table of fixins had huge bowls of crushed cookies, strawberries, chocolate sauce, nuts (my favorite!), caramel, marshmallows, fruit loops, whipped cream and more. Oh yuuuummmmm! I'm already looking forward to it.

You can register online until midnight tonight (7/31). You can also register at the pre-ride party on Saturday from 4-7pm at Lucky Lab NW or on Sunday at the start line starting at 9am. Lucky Lab NW is on NW Quimby at 19th. This ride is a benefit for the Community Cycling Center.
[ REGISTER NOW ]

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 7:48 PM | Permalink

July 30, 2008

The Night Ride Photo Gallery

Check out the new Night Ride photo gallery and add your photos! CLICK HERE.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:35 PM | Permalink

Celebrate Portland's Platinum Status

On Thursday, August 7th, the City of Portland will officially celebrate being awarded Platinum Status by the League of American Bicyclists. The event will take place at City Hall, 1221 SW 4th Avenue, from 5-7pm.

From Transportation Options Coordinator Linda Ginenthal: "Please join us in celebrating the City of Portland League of American Bicyclists Platinum Award for being the top Bicycling Friendly Community in the country at City Hall's First Thursday event. Bring your bikes. Dress in your Platinum Best. Bring your water bottles to get 'fueled' with root beer at the Platinum fuel pump. Step inside for the Platinum cake and the Picturing Portland's People, Places (& Platinum) 1st Thursday exhibit (with some great photos of bicyclists too)."

At the event, they will announce the first recipient of Portland Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community award for helping make Portland the #1 bicycling city in the US. The awardee will be the Providence Bridge Pedal's 1st Grand Marshall for the ride on Sunday, August 10.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:43 PM | Permalink

July 25, 2008

Mt. Bike Oregon Rocked!

I was down in Oakridge for the July weekend of Mt. Bike Oregon, and really there's nothing quite like it. The camaraderie is great; people come from all over the country (and as far away as Switzerland) to hang out in the forest together. In fact, Oakridge is surrounded on all sides by National Forest. The trails offer miles and miles of sweet singletrack. The event is limited to 300 riders so if you want to get in on the August event (and you should), sign up today. 50 volunteer guides lead you on the trails, answer questions, share knowledge and make sure you don't take a wrong turn. They're all really enthusiastic and supportive, and they make the weekend what it is - rockin'.

Check out the photos from July and sign up today!.

Photo gallery | Registration

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:28 PM | Permalink

July 16, 2008

The Nighttime Club Rides Again

The Night Ride last Saturday in Portland was off the hook! There were costumed riders everywhere. Over 1,300 people hit the streets for a nighttime adventure, and gobbled up 2,200 doughnuts at the finish line. The mysterious bagpiper, tucked away on a dark, quiet trail, was a huge hit. Riders also rode along the Columbia Slough Trail, the Peninsula Crossing Trail and other great routes as they snaked through the city.

Check out photos of the ride in the photo gallery. Did you go on the ride? What did you think?

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 5:28 PM | Permalink

July 12, 2008

A Nighttime Adventure Like No Other!

It's time for The Night Ride! This quirky-fun t-shirt is a hot Portland tradition that is not to be missed. Get your costume on and head down to the Amtrak station and get ready for an off-the-hook adventure. Registration is 8pm and the ride starts at 9pm. You may register at the event starting at 8pm.

I'm actually typing this live from the pre-ride party at the Lucky Lab NW. Glow necklaces are everywhere and people are swapping stories of what they're wearing for their costume, but others are keeping their clever ideas hush-hush; they're determined to win one of the great prizes. The disco lights are already in action (the organizers couldn't wait to hook them up for the disco party rest stop) and people are really excited for Saturday's ride. See you at the Amtrak station!

Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 2:03 AM | Permalink

July 9, 2008

Rider Profile: Shanti Ware

If there were an award for being Mt. Bike Oregon's biggest fan, it would definitely go to Shanti Ware, who loves MBO so much she brings friends she knows through MySpace and helps lead clinics for women. Her enthusiasm for MBO is contagious. "The trails are just plain amazing. The camaraderie cannot be beat. The people are outrageously fun. It's a must-do for mountain bikers!"

Shanti, a Portland Urban Mountain Pedaler, says her number one rule is that every weekend is spent on singletrack. "I am in love with Northwest-style singletrack. I get the biggest biker high from butt-over-your-backtire downhill. Narrow, rooty, rocky, technical: that's what I'm talkin' about! Downhill rocks and roots that provide air opportunity give me just a little more to smile about." She's s self-described thrill-seeker by nature who loves pushing her limits (see her injured shoulder photo below).

So what is it about MBO that keeps Shanti coming back? "You wake up at MBO, ride your bike over to breakfast which is served by some of the sweetest folks you could meet. Like your Mom, they all just want to feed you more. You sit with your new best friends and talk about the funny stuff that happened at the beer garden the night before and get each other amped up about the trails you're riding today. The cool energy in the air is intoxicating. Is it biker Christmas or what?"

Continue reading "Rider Profile: Shanti Ware"

Comments (6) | Posted by orbike at 1:11 AM | Permalink

July 3, 2008

ORbike Member Profile: Megan Kent

ORbike member Megan Kent bought her first road bike last October, after she was informed by her doctor that swimming and cycling were the only safe sports for her because of injured knees. Just two months later went on a century ride from Sacramento to Stockton. "There was an unbelievable head wind. I didn't think I was in good enough shape for it but with the help of my friend Motrin, I did just fine."

Meghan, a 30 year old from Wilsonville, loves perusing the ORbike calendar to look for events. "There is always something to do under the events section - from Taco Truck Tuesday to Bike Polo - and it all looks like fun!" she says.

This year she, Meghan says, she's looking forward to STP and the many other great events she'll discover through ORbike.

What's your member story? Tell us why you joined ORbike. And if you're not already an ORbike member, join today! The next upcoming event to use your membership discount is the ever-fun Night Ride on July 12th.

Become a member today! | The Night Ride info

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:55 AM | Permalink

June 30, 2008

NW Tandem Rally

The NW Tandem Rally is coming up this week in McMinnville. Grab your favorite riding partner and saddle up on a bicycle built for two (or more!) for a Fourth of July weekend packed with bike activities. Proceeds will benefit the McMinnville Police Department Kids Bicycle and Safety Fair, Bicycle Transportation Alliance and Community Cycling Center.

There are supported rides every day, ranging from about 25-70 miles. This event is a great opportunity to hang out with other tandem riders and explore McMinnville.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:50 PM | Permalink

June 25, 2008

Exciting Times: More People on Bikes! (video)

It's summer, so naturally there are more people on bikes right now. But there are EVEN more people on bikes these days because of gas prices, economic woes and health concerns. We can also attribute the increase to more education, better infrastructure and the snowball effect. I'm pretty excited to see so many people riding. I love that I over hear conversations about bicycles every time I am out in public.

As cyclists, we are living in an exciting time. It's easy to become smug, knowing that many of us have been at it for years, but with this post, I encourage you (if you are prone to velo smugness), to instead don your ambassadorial helmet! Congratulate the new cyclists and offer your support. Let's work together to make that if sure that if gas prices miraculously go down or if the economy turns around these new cyclists continue riding their bikes - and have fun doing so!

Sunday Parkways last weekend in Portland was a great example of tons of people riding bikes. Read all about it here and continue on to watch the video:

Continue reading "Exciting Times: More People on Bikes! (video)"

Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 12:32 AM | Permalink

June 20, 2008

Favorite Trails?

Oakridge, Oregon - surrounded on all sides by national forest - has some of the nation's best trails. Even Gary Fisher agrees. But what do you think? What are your favorite trails in Oakridge? Have you had the epic Mt. Bike Oregon experience? What did you think? We want to hear from you! Weigh in below.

Comments (11) | Posted by orbike at 9:34 AM | Permalink

June 17, 2008

Mountain Lakes Challenge

The Mountain Lakes Challenge, set in the mountains of Southern Oregon, is a stunning ride on country roads. With Mt. Ashland and Mt. McLoughlin in the background you'll ride through meadows of wildflowers, beneath towering conifer forests and by dazzling mountain lakes.

In addition to the full century route, there are two metric centuries that both offer some of the beauty and challenge of full century. This year the organizers have added 25 and 50 mile routes that remain at the lower elevations of the Rogue Valley but still allow riders to explore the landscapes that Southern Oregon is famous for. Even the youngest cyclists as there is a 5-8 mile Jack and Rogue ride along the Bear Creek Greenway for kids 12 and under.

Proceeds go to the Bear Creek Greenway Foundation.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:06 AM | Permalink

June 15, 2008

Volunteer for Sunday Parkways

Sunday, June 22nd, will be a landmark day for Portland, this region and the United States when the City of Portland hosts the first authentic ciclovia, a Latin American tradition of closing city streets on Sundays for families to walk, bike and play. The City of Portland is the first in the country to give ciclovias a try. The event takes place in north and northeast Portland.

Volunteer shifts are four hours long and you get to be in the heart of the action. You also get a t-shirt, snacks and water. There are two training sessions from which to choose: June 17th, 6:00-7:30 pm, Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Ave., Portland or June 21st, 10:00-11:30 am, Kaiser Town Hall, 3704 N Interstate Ave., Portland. To volunteer, you can sign up here online.

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:29 PM | Permalink

June 13, 2008

Here Come the Freak Bikes

The freak bikes are coming out on Saturday (June 14) for Cirque du Cycling, a bicycle street fair. Tall bikes, swing bikes, choppers and more will be out in force to parade down Mississippi Avenue and strut their stuff.

One of Portland's longest-standing bike clubs, the venerable Belligerantes, spent the last two weeks shining up their vintage Schwinn Sting-Ray for the affair. I spent some time catching up with Craig Babb, one of the founding members of the 12 yr. old club.

Where'd the name come from?
Belligerantes is sort of a mix of Belligerent Vigilantes. We are Portland's only all Schwinn bike club.

Continue reading "Here Come the Freak Bikes"

Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:37 AM | Permalink

June 12, 2008

Get Your Sleep While you Can...

It's that time of year again - when you don't get enough sleep, when you plan your days based on a calendar of 200 free bike events, when the streets are constantly flooded with bikers and when you have a renewed faith in humanity. It's Pedalpalooza, Portland's annual two-week festival of bike fun that starts today and goes until the 28th.

From workshops and rides to competitions and bike-themed events, there is a little something for all types of cyclists during Pedalpalooza. Some days you have as many as 16 events to choose from. There are more than 200 events spread out over the course of a mere 17 days. And best of all...

Continue reading "Get Your Sleep While you Can..."

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