May 9, 2008
Beautiful Rural Routes
My life is pretty hectic these days, being a busy event coordinator gearing up for a summer season, and one of my favorite ways to relax is to ride my bike through the countryside, taking in the sights and smells of rural lands. That's why I love Reach the Beach.
This spectacular ride is an opportunity to explore some of the most gorgeous areas of Oregon - without really lifting a finger. I mean, you do have to pedal your bike, there is no one to do that for you, but you don't have to worry about choosing a route, packing or planning food, etc. The well-planned course has rest stops every 12 miles or so, and the food on course is delish. Online registration closes on the 13th and after that date you can register at the start line on May 17th. There are five courses of varying distances.
RELAX! Enjoy the ride!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:03 PM | Permalink
May 8, 2008
One Milliion Bicycles
Joe Kurmaski, AKA the Metal Cowboy, is working on a new project called One Million Bicycles.
He describes it better than I do, so I thought I'd just include his video here:
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 6:20 PM | Permalink
May 6, 2008
Most Gigantic ORbike Newsletter
Did you see that latest newsletter we sent out? It was huge - had to be an ORbike record. I tried, really hard, to cut it down, but man there are tons of great events happening, and it's not even summer yet. We strive to keep our newsletter timely, fun, concise and informative. But on this one, I really couldn't resist mention that Portland went Platinum, or Reach the Beach (coming right up on May 17th) or some cool perks you'll get if you're an ORbike member. I also loved getting to know Heather Watson, the latest person I've interviewed as an ORbike member.
If you didn't get our newsletter, you can sign up for it on the front page of our website. To read the May Mega issue, click here.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:19 PM | Permalink
May 5, 2008
Rider Profile: The Linssens
Urban Assault is a bicycle adventure scavenger hunt full of creative elements. The event has been a hit in other cities so the organizers are putting it on in Portland on May 25th. Barbara and Peter Linssen are just a few of the many people who are signing up to compete as a team. Barbara says they own tons of bikes, and they do all sorts of city fair weather riding, like going to the grocery. While they do have two young kids, Urban Adventure is all about these two adults taking a day off from the kids (Barbara considers it a date).
Continue reading "Rider Profile: The Linssens"
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 1:00 AM | Permalink
May 1, 2008
Rider Profile: Unicycle to the Beach!
It's impressive to ride to the beach in the awesome Reach the Beach ride, but it's even more impressive to get there on a unicycle. Bah! Crazy, no one would do that, you say. Well, in fact several Portland unicyclists are taking the Uni Challenge for this year's event. I ran into Michael (aka MJ Freshy Fresh) at the Pre-ride Party at REI and he admitted he's one of the ambitious unicyclists, so I asked him to tell me more. Is it hard? Does it hurt? Are you insane?
Continue reading "Rider Profile: Unicycle to the Beach!"
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 8:03 PM | Permalink
April 30, 2008
Fundraising 101 Clinic
If you're riding, or considering riding, Reach the Beach, there is an easy-to-reach $50 fundraising goal. It's a snap - all riders do it. But let's say you want to get the really cool In-Focus home projector entertainment system, one of the fundraising prizes. How do you get to that level of fundraising?
Well, first off, let me tell you that is achievable too! Fundraising, at it's most basic, is asking. And when the cause is something as important as clean Oregon air and healthy Oregon lungs, people will feel proud to support your efforts.
Jennifer Baldwin, Development Director at the American Lung Association of Oregon, is making the process even smoother for you when you attend her Fundraising 101 clinic at the Clackamas REI (12160 SE 82nd) this Monday, 7pm. Jennifer, a real expert in fundraising, will share time-tested fundraising tips that have helped hundreds of cyclists raise thousands of dollars for this great cause.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:41 AM | Permalink
April 29, 2008
Portland Awarded Platinum !
This just in from BikePortland.org:
"Portland has gone Platinum. The League of American Bicyclists will officially announce later today that Portland has become the first major city in America to be designated as a Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Community. (The only other city to have reached the Platinum level is Davis, California with a population of 63,000.)"
Some have argued that so long as cyclists are still involved in unsafe interactions with cars Portland cannot be designated a Platinum city. Others argue that there is still a lot of work to do a Platinum status will grant the planners a chance to slack off from their progressive work to make Portland more bike friendly.
Whatever your belief, there is no doubt that city planners, advocacy organizations (most notably the BTA), bike shop owners and the cyclists themselves have worked tirelessly over the years to make Portland a bike-friendly city to be admired. GO PORTLAND!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 5:20 PM | Permalink
April 24, 2008
Calling all bike clubs
Oregon has a wealth of totally awesome bike clubs doing all sorts of neat tricks, and Cirque du Cycling on June 14th will bring them all together for the nation's largest bike pride parade. The parade takes place on Mississippi Avenue in Portland.
Cirque du Cycling, a Mississippi bike fair in support of Self Enhancement Inc., features a family ride, the parade and criterium with two-way racing.
For more info, to register to race or for the parade, see their website
Comments (5) | Posted by orbike at 10:52 AM | Permalink
April 23, 2008
Reach the Beach is Hot!
Ridership for the 2008 Reach the Beach is off the hook! What's with all the activity? Well, for one, Reach the Beach is simply an amazing way to experience the beauty of rural Oregon. And forget planning what you'll bring and where you'll eat and how you'll get there on safe roads; Reach the Beach organizers have that all planned out and, in fact, have been offering that service for 18 years. On top of that, Reach the Beach is a fundraiser for the American Lung Association of Oregon so you can feel good about riding and supporting a great organization.
There are six courses to choose from - a little of something for riders of all skill levels. If you're not signed up yet, do it today! You don't want to miss out on this great ride.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 3:26 AM | Permalink
April 22, 2008
Portland Steel Bridge Construction
An important update from TriMet. The good news is that it looks like bike traffic will be largely unaffected.
Continue reading "Portland Steel Bridge Construction"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:32 PM | Permalink
April 21, 2008
Introducing ORrun!
ORbike would like to welcome the newest member of our family, ORrun.com! ORrun has been a great resource for several years now, but we've just started a running-specific newsletter and blog through ORrun.com. In this newsletter you'll find the same great news you've come to expect from ORbike - except we won't be talking about bikes.
We'll cover everything from all the big marathons and triathlons to the plentiful fun runs/walks. We'll even keep you up to date on various training clinics, gear, and workout tips. But if running isn't your thing, we understand - continue to enjoy everything ORbike has to offer.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:09 PM | Permalink
April 17, 2008
Bike to Your Local Earth Day Celebration!
Earth Day is April 22nd so towns and cities around Oregon are hosting community celebrations all weekend long. It was a gigantic Earth Day celebration in Chicago probably around 1989 that got me first inspired to recycle and later to ride a bike. The best way to get to your local celebration is by bike.
Great activities are planned in Salem, Trail, Silverton, Portland and elsewhere. There are too many to mention here, but check with your local environmental organizations or search online.
I spoke with John Mitchell with the Eugene celebration as he was running in and out of last-minute planning meetings. Their festival on the water, he explained, is offering valet bike parking and encouraging all attendees to come by bike. Paul's Bicycle Way of Life, a prominent bike shop in Eugene, is offering free bike tune ups "while they last." So if that's your celebration and your bike could use a little adjusting, this is a great opportunity to get it in tip-top summer shape.
Across the state weather is predicted to be pretty nice, except for those of you at higher elevations who will likely get snow (!!) so head out and enjoy the day! What are you doing for Earth Day?
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 10:36 AM | Permalink
April 15, 2008
Reach the Beach
Many of us are draw to Oregon for it's beauty. We enjoy spending time outdoors and exploring what our state has to offer. And for those of us who also love riding our bikes, Reach the Beach is a fabulous way to get out into the countryside and experience Oregon's bounty. If you've ever dreamed of touring Oregon's countryside by bike, this is the best way to do it, with tons of support, yummy food and great routes.
Continue reading "Reach the Beach"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:48 PM | Permalink
April 10, 2008
Bikers Take Over the Theater
Thousands of bike enthusiasts won't be out on the streets riding this weekend - they'll be at the Clinton Street Theater watching bikes take over the silver screen for Filmed by Bike, the annual film festival featuring bike-themed shorts. And when they say short, they mean it: all movies are eight min. or fewer. Submissions are sent in from around the world, but the festival only happens in Portland.
Friday night is the Opening Night Throwdown (showings at 7 + 9) with beer, a raffle of over $2,000 in prizes (including some really nice roadwear from Rapha and a custom-made bike bag), a line snaking all the way down the block and tons of hootin' and hollerin'. But if boisterous bikers yelling at the screen isn't your thing...
Continue reading "Bikers Take Over the Theater"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:53 PM | Permalink
April 5, 2008
7 Tips for Effective Cycling
Sandee, the newest addition to the ORbike team, is a cycling instructor. We thought we'd take this springtime opportunity to share with you some tips on effective cycling. Sandee has some great ideas for ways you can get started on the road to a more comfortable ride today!
7 Tips for Effective Cycling
Have you mastered the basic skills to riding effectively on the road? Perhaps you have just purchased your first road bike, plan to enter a few fun rides this summer, or you have been riding with friends and decided to take your cycling a little more serious but are unsure of technique. Consider the following tips to riding better.
Continue reading "7 Tips for Effective Cycling"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:43 PM | Permalink
April 3, 2008
Bike Buying Tips
I am one of the hosts of the KBOO Bike Show, a monthly radio program that discusses news, views, culture and issues related to cycling. We have been on the air since 2001 and hands down the most common question we get is related to finding the right bike to purchase. Overall, my best advice for novices is to think about what type of riding you want to do, carve out some time, visit shops on slow days, have a list of questions and never be afraid to ask and clarify and double ask until you're sure you're getting the info you want.
And for those of you who are a little more advanced in your searching, I thought we might turn to two sources. For one, Bicycling Magazine put together this article on bike buying tips.
For the other angle, let's here from you! How do you select a bike and what is your advice to others? Weigh in here.
Comments (5) | Posted by orbike at 10:09 AM | Permalink
March 31, 2008
Latest News
Our latest newsletter just went out on Friday filled with all the Spring riding news. If you're not on our newsletter list, you should be. Sign up through the front page of our website so you don't miss out on all the freshest Oregon cycling news.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:17 AM | Permalink
March 28, 2008
Oregon Bike Summit
Join Oregon's entire cycling community working to make Oregon the nation's premier cycling state at the Oregon Bike Summit. You'll have the chance to connect with industry peers, learn from inspiring case studies, and engage with public policy issues over a broad spectrum of cycling-related topics including: transportation, recreation, tourism, industry and events.
Keynote speakers include Congressman Earl Blumenauer; Tim Blumenthal, executive director of Bikes Belong; and Hill Abell, board president of the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). There will be a number of breakout sessions geared toward specific topics ranging from event planning and creating successful partnerships to sustainable tourism, bike-friendly communities and how to affect policy at the local, state and national level.
The summit is April 4-5 at the Red Lion Hotel on Jantzen Beach in Portland. For more info, see their website.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:18 AM | Permalink
March 27, 2008
Rower Turned Cyclist
Rebecca Romero is in line to make history at the Beijing Olympics. If this year goes well for her, she could be only the second woman to ever win medals in consecutive games but different sports.
Romero won the Olympic silver and World Championships gold as a rower but became frustrated by what she describes as a lack of personal athletic development in the sport. She came close to quitting sports entirely, but a stint in injury rehab lead her to a cycling coach who had faith in her potential as a cyclist. And she's making pretty impressive strides.
Read the interview on PezCycling News.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:04 PM | Permalink
March 21, 2008
ORbike Member Profile: Temple Lentz
We love to get to know more about our members, and we recently got to know a little about 32 year old Temple Lentz from Vancouver. Temple has her priorities straight: she she is excited to be an ORbike member for the discounts she receives when registering for events. We agree, saving big is pretty great. Temple is fond of riding because it gives her the ability to go more places, more quickly, but, she adds, "not going so fast that you can't take in the scene around you." Temple really enjoyed riding the Portland Century last August, nominating it her favorite ride of 2008 "It was a good ride and amazing food at the end!" And, not surprisingly, it is the ride she is most looking forward to this year.
On an organized training ride about a year ago, Temple had one of her most empowering moments with her bike: "I blew out a tire within the first fifteen minutes on the road. The rest of the group went on ahead and I was stuck on the side of the road, a genius without a cell phone having never changed a tire or repaired a flat. But realizing that it was make it happen or start a long walk, I did it--and had a great ride once I was back on the road."
ORbike membership is a great way to save on events, get the royal VIP treatment at select events, and stay clued in to all of Oregon's exciting bike events. Sign up today and take advantage of your discounts this season. [ more info ]
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:32 PM | Permalink
March 20, 2008
We Need a Better Helmet Design
It's true, sometimes I know I don't have my helmet straps adjusted right. I know the chin strap is too loose. The tabs by the ears have slackened. I used to assist with kid safety programs so I know all the rules: wear it straight, two fingers under the chin, shouldn't wiggle side to side, etc. But still, I set off for countless rides with my helmet not quite right because I'm in a hurry.
While I appreciate the variety of styles that now exist, from hipster multi-sport rounded helmets to ultra light weight sleek helmets, and I appreciate that good looking helmets can be found for under $40, I'm not satisfied with the straps. Under my helmet I alternate between a winter head band, a hat, hair tied up, a hood or nothing at all. And each of those times I have to make a re-adjustment in four places.
There has to be a better way. I want a better helmet. What do you think?
Comments (10) | Posted by orbike at 5:15 PM | Permalink
March 15, 2008
Filmed by Bike: Get in Free
Filmed by Bike, the annual festival of bike-themed movie shorts, is April 11-13 at the Clinton Street Theater. The Opening Night Throwdown party is on the 11th and it has sold out all five years. Worried about getting in? There are a few options. And one option gets you in for free.
Continue reading "Filmed by Bike: Get in Free"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:16 AM | Permalink
March 13, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PUMP!
ORbike wishes the Portland United Mountain Pedalers a very happy birthday and a huge congratulations! This Portland-based mountain bike club is celebrating their 20th anniversary this month. Not only does PUMP do a great job of getting more people on bikes to explore Portland's trails, they're dedicated to maintaining the trails of Forest Park.
Here's the message from newsletter editor Amy Singmaster:
The Portland United Mountain Pedalers will celebrate its 20th anniversary on Sunday, March 30th, 2008, with a fun ride in Forest Park followed by a party at Lucky Labrador Brewpub, 1945 NW Quimby. All riders are invited, from relaxed to speedy - either way you will be sure to have fun!
Bob Crispin of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame will ride the Northwest's first mountain bike, Tankagnolo, and riders are encouraged to ride vintage bikes and dress in vintage clothing to celebrate the start of recreational mountain biking in the city and the founding of PUMP. Admission to both events is free. The ride will be ending with good times at the Northwest Lucky Lab.
Continue reading "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PUMP!"
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 8:35 AM | Permalink
March 12, 2008
Team Oregon Wants to Expand
Jim Anderson, of the PIR racing nights fame, sent me this message:
Looking to learn about bicycle racing and want a group to ride with? Team Oregon is looking to expand its roster 2008.
Team Oregon, a local cycling team, is looking to continue its growth and is always accepting new members. The team was established in 1988, and has had a long track record in Oregon racing. The roster of the team has included all levels of cycling talent from national champions to entry level and recreational riders looking to just have a good group to ride with.
Continue reading "Team Oregon Wants to Expand"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:01 PM | Permalink
March 10, 2008
Seattle Bike Show Report
This past weekend was the Seattle Bike Expo. I don't have the official count, but the place was packed. At the VIP party on Saturday night they announced that over 5,000 people had come through the doors - way more than the previous years. Sunday was an equally packed house, but shorter hours, so I'd say at least 8,000 attended the festival this year. It was an impressive turnout. Check out these photos:
Continue reading "Seattle Bike Show Report"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:39 PM | Permalink
March 6, 2008
Seattle Here I Come
This weekend is the Group Health Seattle International Bicycle Expo, organized by the Cascade Bicycle Club. The expo is a complete celebration of cycling, with exhibits and presentations. It's a great opportunity to see what big rides are planned for 2008. Oregon's own Joe Kurmaski, aka the Metal Cowboy, will be there for special activities and info in the new Expo Youth Zone.
It's going to be a busy weekend for Team ORbike. Three of us are headed up to staff a booth and check out the scene. If I get a chance to break away from the action for a moment, I'll check in with you all to let you know some of the coolest stuff I'm seeing out there.
If you happen to be free this weekend, head up to Seattle. It's $8 to get in for a day, $10 for two days, and kids get in free.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 6:10 PM | Permalink
Seattle Here I Come
This weekend is the Group Health Seattle International Bicycle Expo, organized by the Cascade Bicycle Club. The expo is a complete celebration of cycling, with exhibits and presentations. It's a great opportunity to see what big rides are planned for 2008. Oregon's own Joe Kurmaski, aka the Metal Cowboy, will be there for special activities and info in the new Expo Youth Zone.
It's going to be a busy weekend for Team ORbike. Three of us are headed up to staff a booth and check out the scene. If I get a chance to break away from the action for a moment, I'll check in with you all to let you know some of the coolest stuff I'm seeing out there.
If you happen to be free this weekend, head up to Seattle. It's $8 to get in for a day, $10 for two days, and kids get in free.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:00 PM | Permalink
February 29, 2008
Reach the Beach Training Rides
The training rides schedule for Reach the Beach has just been published. For years, the American Lung Association of Oregon has partnered with the Portland Wheelmen Touring Club to help riders get in shape for the May ride to Pacific City. So it you're not quite feeling up for the 100 mile ride from Portland or the more challenging 110 mile ride from Corvallis, you've got some options. You could hope on the shorter routes, such as 26 miles from Grand Ronde, 55 miles from Amity or 80 miles from Salem. Or you could start training now! the ride is not until May 17th, so, really, you've got plenty of time to get get your legs (and rear) ready.
The training rides are free and they're a great way to get ready for riding miles on end. They range in difficulty so you can choose a ride that's right for you. Plus, many of the people on the training rides are veteran Reach the Beach participants so they can help answer questions you may have about the route. [ schedule ]
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:23 PM | Permalink
February 27, 2008
What are you Riding?
The weather has been sunny and it looks like we'll be graced with sun for a few more days. Team ORbike member Tom is getting out of dodge: riding his bike to the coast. Friends will accompany him part of the way, but for the bulk of the journey he's flying solo toward Manzanita.
So how are you spending these lovely days? Are you still adjusting your brakes and oiling the chain or have you been logging miles and hammering the hills?
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 10:53 PM | Permalink
February 20, 2008
City of Salem Says No More Potholes!
Potholes can be a very scary experience for cyclists, especially if you hit one while going at a good clip. The jolt can send you flying just enough to knock the breadth out of you. I hit a pothole recently while in a narrow bike lane with cars whizzing by. It got me to thinking about how this certainly must be a deterrent for new riders.
The City of Salem has a very proactive pothole repair program. According to their website, "We here at the Public Works Department are very proud of our Pothole Patching Program. Our goal is to fix every pothole we find within one working day! We do take weekends off, but if the Police report a hazardous pothole, we fix it ASAP!"
If you encounter a pothole in Salem, you can report it by calling 503-588-6063 or fill out this form on the website.
They recommend you include the street name and approximate address or nearest cross street. Happy pothole searching, Salem riders!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:31 AM | Permalink
February 19, 2008
Start your Summer Planning
Summer events are already rolling in to our calendar! I'm excited to see a lot of the favorites returning - and lots of new events too. No, we're not in the clear from the rain just yet, but that doesn't mean you can't start planning your summer fun now! There is no shortage of rides in Oregon and there will be days when you have to decide which event to do. In fact, if you are ambitious you can head out to something every weekend this summer.
Check out this cool event, the Urban Assault Ride on May 25, from New Belgium Brewing:
Continue reading "Start your Summer Planning"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:42 PM | Permalink
Brown Bag Lunch in Portland - Bike Lanes
Portland Department of Transportation's Bicycle Brown Bag series is a nice way to spend lunch in you're in the downtown area on you rlunch area. These free lunches happen once a month.
This month, the topic is Portland's First Bicycle Paths, 1896-1899. Historian Eric Lundgren will discuss early efforts to fund and build safe routes for cyclists. From do-it-yourself to public funding, a lot of effort went into making the area's first bike paths happen.
Bring your lunch, hang with other cyclists and enjoy this afternoon lecture followed by discussion.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:11 AM | Permalink
February 14, 2008
Two Wheels to Tango: Valentango
Apparently there are a growing number of tango dancers in Portland who are also bike enthusiasts. And what better way to bring them together than a Valentine's Day event called Valentango. The ride starts at midnight on February 16th. I just think this sounds like a lovely ride and their poster (click for a larger view) is delightful.
From the organizers:
"Enjoy spectacular night time views of the city as we ride through downtown, across the steel bridge, and along the water down the east side esplanade to the Chelsea Ballroom. This is a leisurely ride supportive of formal attire."
[ More info ]
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:12 AM | Permalink
February 11, 2008
The Best Worst Day!
It's the end of a long, rewarding day - but I'm just stopping in quickly to report that today's Worst Day of the Year Ride was the best it has ever been. Sure, it rained a little in the morning, but that was at about 6:00am, well before riders started queuing up. So as for that record of sunny skies every year except a little rain at the end for the course last year? It held true! The sun came out during the finish line just as everyone was enjoying 100% scrumptious chili and potato corn chowder provided by Laughing Planet. Seriously, I've never tasted bike ride food like that before (except maybe the gourmet finish line at the Portland Century, but that ride is in a league of it's own).
Over 2,000 riders showed up, cruised the city streets, drank hot drinks along the way and, perhaps most importantly, strutted their stuff in outrageous costumes. Maybe the exclusively-designed limited edition Worst Day of the Year Ride reflector from Fun Reflectors, a prize for costumed riders, was an incentive. But I doubt it. These gussied up folks were in it to win it - prizes or not.
What's that? You didn't make it out there for the ride today? You're crazy. You must go next year. You must.
Photos and more info to come.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 3:44 AM | Permalink
February 9, 2008
A Peek at NAHBS
Hover over to pause - refresh page for a new mix
Today was the opening of the North American Handmade Bike Show in Portland. This traveling festival happens once a year and brings under one roof some of the world's most hardworking and talented framebuilders. I wasn't able to stay for very long, and that's a crying shame. There were so many beautiful bikes, displayed even more beautifully and the Convention Center was completely abuzz with enthusiasm. On the other side of the Convention Center was the Golf Show, and let me tell you, our side was much hotter.
Though builders have been making a living creating custom bikes for years (many doing it solidly since the '70's), the number of framebuilders in Oregon/SW Washington has grown significantly in the last few years. There were at least 10 of them at the show exhibiting their finest.
This is just a synopsis as I have to run to get ready for all the fun Worst Day of the Year Ride action, but consider heading out to the show - it's pretty sweet. There's no shortage of simply gorgeous bikes to geek out and freak out on, and there are workshops too.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:57 AM | Permalink
February 8, 2008
The Hottest Worst Day
The Worst Day of the Year Ride is sold out! Last year there were 1,500 riders and this year they capped the ride at 2,000 riders. The event it not until this Sunday, but last night at midnight they hit that 2,000 mark.
Congratulations to those of you who are going on this incredible wintertime adventure! Be sure to write back to us and let us know how it goes. We want to hear all about that yummy food, especially the finish line by Laughing Planet Cafe. I heard they've been hard at work in their kitchen all week preparing the made-from-scratch soup and chili for the masses.
So if the ride is full up how do you still get in? There are a limited number of volunteer positions available. See the website for details.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:17 PM | Permalink
February 7, 2008
Sunday's Weather Report
This Sunday is the Worst Day of the Year Ride in Portland. Will we actually see the worst weather? Uhhh, I doubt it. Though the ride was formed around the actual worst day of the year in Oregon weather, the past six rides have been graced with sunny skies and mild weather. It is sort of looking like this year might be no different (predictions of only a 30% chance of rain and 50 degrees).
The ride is almost sold out and online registration closes tonight. If online registration does not sell out, registration will also be available at Packet Pickup Saturday (4-7 at Lucky Lab on Hawthorne) or at the start line.
>> REGISTER NOW
So what happened when the organizers decided to start the Worst Day's sister ride, the Hottest Day of the Year Ride? Yup, you guessed it, cold weather and pouring down rain - in early August. Go figure.
Are you riding this Sunday? What are you most looking forward to?
Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 3:08 PM | Permalink
February 6, 2008
NAHBS Brings on the Fun
This weekend is the North American Handmade Bicycle Show, a touring show that visits a different city every year. Portland is hell-bent on ensuring the out-of-towners see the very best that Portland has to offer so on top of the convention's after-parties, Portlanders have organized additional activities. The most comprehensive list of what's happening when during this jam-packed weekend is on the BikePortland.org website. See details here.
There will be workshops for builders, casual riders and competitive riders. Maybe you want to catch the alley cat on Saturday. Maybe you're riding the not-to-be-missed Worst Day of the Year Ride on Sunday. Or you can just spend all day geeking out and freaking out on some of the world's most beautifully-constructed bikes. See? Plenty to do.
You can read more about NAHBS in the most recent ORbike newsletter. By the way, if you're not receiving our newsletter, you should be. Sign up through the front page of our website.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:02 AM | Permalink
February 5, 2008
Rider Profile: Gus Fant
Gus Fant is riding in the Worst Day of the Year Ride, but says that a little rain won't scare him off. "I ride in the rain," he says, " because if you don't you won't get much riding in." And Gus knows all about getting riding in - he usually clocks about 3,000 miles per year, and aims for 4,000.
Still, it's no small feat for Gus to be riding in the Worst Day of the Year Ride. This 65 year old is a member of the Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club and he'll be coming down from Tacoma for the ride. Several of the other club members will also be riding.
Gus is a veteran Worst Day of the Year Rider: he has been on five rides. So why does he love it? "It is probably the most social ride I experience during the year," he says. "With the frequent stops on the Worst Day of the Year Ride find it rather relaxing to just take my time and enjoy the ride and visit with riders. Also I take pleasure in supporting the Community Cycling Center as I strongly believe in what they are all about."
Continue reading "Rider Profile: Gus Fant"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:57 PM | Permalink
February 4, 2008
ORbike Member Profile: Chris McCraw
During the summer of 2007, ORbike member Chris McCraw hopped on his bicycle in Austin, Texas, and didn't stop until he reached Anchorage, Alaska. So it's no surprise this 31-year-old Portlander is a huge fan of local bike events.
So why did he join ORbike? "ORbike seemed like a good gateway into meeting bikey people and doing bikey things," he says. "Plus, I figured I'd get my money's worth via event discounts and supporting the furtherance of the culture I love."
MEMBERSHIP INFO / JOIN NOW
Continue reading "ORbike Member Profile: Chris McCraw"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:07 PM | Permalink
January 31, 2008
Sunday Parkways
The Sunday Parkways event is coming to Portland. Check out this cool video:
Continue reading "Sunday Parkways"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:39 PM | Permalink
January 24, 2008
Bike Heroes
The Alice B. Toeclips is the Bicycle Transportation Alliance's way to award bike heroes across Oregon who are doing amazing work on behalf of cyclists. This year, 39 people were nominated, including Mark Ginsberg, who is nominated every year and has yet to win. We're rooting for Mark. He's a dad, an attorney specializing in bike law, a long-time local advocate and BTA supporter and in 2007 he won the Men's Masters series at the Portland Twilight Criterium.
Here's the full list of nominees:
Continue reading "Bike Heroes"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:07 PM | Permalink
January 21, 2008
Worst?? Day of the Year Ride
It's really cold out this morning, which has us thinking a lot about the Worst Day of the Year Ride, the annual benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Did you know that in the six years of the ride, it has never rained once? Well, last year there was a little sprinkle at the end, but other than that the quirky, urban, February ride has been graced with sunny, warm skies every year.
You'll be kept warm and comfy at every turn with tons of belly-nourishing treats including hot cocoa, doughnuts, fruit, DragonFly chai tea, Nossa Familia coffee, bagels, hot cider and much more. The finish line meal is presented by Laughing Planet Café, experts in wholesome yumminess, and features local, sustainable and organic soups and fresh focaccia bread.
Want more of a challenge? The optional 40-mile route loop traverses the west hills out to Hillsboro.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 4:54 PM | Permalink
January 12, 2008
Filmed by Bike Trailer
Filmed by Bike, Oregon's festival of bike-themed movie shorts, just debuted a fun little movie trailer for the 2008 festival season. It just hit the streets! Check it out here:
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 12:56 AM | Permalink
January 8, 2008
Cycle Oregon Kick Off Party
Every year, riders flock to this event where one of Portland's best kept secrets is finally revealed: the new Cycle Oregon route. It's a chance to see cycling friends who have been hibernating through the winter and find out who's going on the ride this year. The party also marks the opening of registration for the ride.
This free gala event is a perfect opportunity to rub elbows with scores of enthusiastic cyclists who are amped up for another great year of experiencing Oregon's bounty. You pedal; they'll take care of everything else. Beautiful campsites, gourmet food, hot showers, massage, cold microbrew, Oregon wine, live entertainment and a fully supported route. Head out to the Tiger Woods Center at Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton on January 31st to see what all the fuss is rightly about.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 8:51 PM | Permalink
January 4, 2008
Bike Boxes for Safety Coming to Portland
According to an article in today's Oregonian, in April Portland will add bike boxes to 14 intersections. These painted street areas will allow cyclists to wait for stoplights ahead of cars. The Oregonian reported Portland will be the first city in North America to install the boxes, but they are already in use in Houston (see photo, courtesy of Streetsblog).
After two deaths in October as a result of a driver turning right into a cyclist, traffic engineers hope the bike boxes will help make cyclists more visible by positioning them legally out in front of cars. While the boxes may offer a sense of security for cyclists, they still won't prevent drivers from making right turns without looking. Cyclists will still need to ride cautiously through intersections and proceed with caution after being stopped at an intersection.
The bike boxes represent an awareness on the part of the City of Portland that cyclists are vulnerable road users and that drivers need to play close attention to the other vehicles traveling around them. Let's hope 2008 is a year of safer streets for all road users!
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 6:10 PM | Permalink
December 31, 2007
Best Gloves : The Cyclocross Edition
Our discussion of the best gloves for cold riding continues... this time with a special cyclocross edition. Back in 2005, we put out the call for riders to write in with their recommendations for the very best gloves for riding in rain AND cold.
In my opinion, this is one of the greatest gear challenges, and it's what we here in the Pacific Northwest face for many months (in a row) of the year. The responses (31 of them) were overwhelming, informative and road-tested by real riders. So good was the info, in fact, that I bought the gloves that had the most favorable review - and I have never looked back (Pearl Izumi Amfibs).
So on to the cyclocross glove recommendations:
Continue reading "Best Gloves : The Cyclocross Edition"
Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 6:15 PM | Permalink
December 24, 2007
Best of 2007
Competitor NW just recently published their list of the best of 2007 - as chosen by readers. Check it out, do you agree? What were your favorite rides and events? Topping the list are Oregon favorites Reach the Beach (an ORbike member event), Mt. Bike Oregon (another ORbike member event) and the Portland Marathon.
[ Read the list ]
Comments (13) | Posted by orbike at 3:23 AM | Permalink
December 20, 2007
Jury Nominations
Filmed by Bike, the festival of bike-themed movie shorts, is looking for jury members to work on selecting films for the 2008 festival. Jury members are typically bike and film enthusiasts from Oregon and Washington.
The deadline for jury nominations is January 1. You've got just enough time to think of who would make an awesome jury member, or to convince your friends to
nominate you!
[ More info ]
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 12:10 AM | Permalink
December 7, 2007
Syncline Non-Motorized Trail System
On December 12, 2007, 6:00 p.m., the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, USDA Forest Service, will continue the public participation process for planning a trail system in the Coyote Wall (Syncline) and Catherine Creek area. It will be the second of a series of three meetings to collaboratively to formalize a trail system in the area.
Area Manager Dan Harkenrider says "The purpose of these collaborative meetings is to develop a proposed trail system (non-motorized) that would recognize and address current uses, respect private property, provide a variety of recreation experiences, protect adjacent sensitive resources and be sustainable (minimize resource damage)."
Continue reading "Syncline Non-Motorized Trail System"
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 11:55 PM | Permalink
December 4, 2007
Elves Hard at Work
Things are looking really good at the Community Cycling Center where volunteers and staff are hard at work readying bikes for kids for the holidays. On November 29, sixteen Bike Gallery employees had a record-breaking night - they refurbished 31 bikes in one night. On average, a volunteer group finishes about 15!
With the support of over 1,500 volunteer hours so far, CCC is well on their way to the goal of preparing 550 bikes: they have 495. And they're inching ever closer to their $46,000 fundraising goal: to date they have raised $28,941.
You can help! There's still time to volunteer, donate a bike or donate your $ to make a difference. Fore more information, see their website.
Continue reading "Elves Hard at Work"
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:25 AM | Permalink
November 27, 2007
For Wonky Wonks : Great Presentation
On Thursday November 29th, 2007 Gordon Price will give a free presentation on the effective integration of transportation in high-density environments, with an emphasis on land use. Price is a former City of Vancouver, B.C. Councilor and current Simon Fraser University and University of British Columbia Professor who teaches, researches, and writes extensively on urban development and planning.
I attended this in the past and it was very interesting.
Thursday, November 29, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Ave, 2nd Floor Auditorium. Free
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 6:27 PM | Permalink
November 23, 2007
Kruger's Crossing
This Sunday, Portland Racing brings you the second edition of the Kruger's Crossing Cyclocross Classic - so awesome last year they had to bring it back. This epic race is held at Kruger's Farm, located in the beautiful countryside of Sauvie Island and only 20 minutes from downtown Portland.
In addition to the challenges November weather gods will throw at racers, you can expect a wild course that leads you along rutted farm roads, through berry fields, pastures, a barn, a beer garden and of course the much-heralded corn maze. And don't worry about getting cold - the organizers are staging a bonfire along the course to keep people toasty. Indeed, not your standard cross race.
The party that surrounds the racing features beer, hot wine, hot cider and gourmet food catered by Kruger's Farm Market and Salvador Molly's. Family racers and aspiring kids can participate in the free kiddie race.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:18 PM | Permalink