May 13, 2008
Portland on the Sundance Channel
Back in the fall, staff from The Green, a Sundance Channel, came to town to feature Portland as a bike friendly town. Mia Birk, a planner from Alta Planning + Design, played tour guide and showed them all around Portland as she spoke enthusiastically and eloquently about the benefits of cycling. You can watch a web episode short of the program featuring someone moving his household by bike. I got to make a brief guest appearance; I'm the one in the striped sweater.
Watch the episode here
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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?
ME: So why are you riding a unicycle to the coast?
MJ: The unicycle is has the highest fun-factor of any mode of transportation that I've found yet, so why not ride it to the coast?
ME: How does riding a uni differ from a standard bike?
MJ: It's way harder to ride but provides you more freedom, no handlebars, gears, brakes, etc. For this ride I'll be on a unicycle called a Coker, it's got a 3' wheel which helps you go faster.
ME: Are there any other unis riding, that you know of?
MJ: Yes, I think there are 2 other riders from our gang and they are braver than I! I'm doing the 50 mile but Max and Zeke are going for the 100 miler!
ME: What route are you doing and why did you choose that route?
MJ: I'm doing the Amity route. I think that's all the miles my body can take, a unicycle seat is rather invasive ya know?
ME: What kind of riding do you usually do and are you training on a uni?
MJ: I play unicycle polo weekly, I do some urban trails riding and some trail riding. Not much training, just riding for fun.
So if you see Micheal, or his other unicycle buddies, out there on the course, give them a high five!
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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
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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.
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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.
The screenings are all weekend long so if you are concerned about getting in on Friday, you can choose from six additional screenings on Saturday and Sunday. And if you want to get in free, you can volunteer. There are a variety of positions still open. See the website for more info.
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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.
Riders will meet at the Lucky Lab at 1:00 p.m., break up into groups according to desire (fast, intermediate, slow, family) and go for a spin up Thurman into Forest Park. PUMP will regroup at Lucky Lab around 5 p.m. for our birthday party! Fun, games, a fix a flat contest and or course a birthday cake will be part of the festivities. Tankagnolo, the Northwest's first mountain bike, will be on display at the Lucky Lab along with other history of the mountain bike and PUMP.
PUMP was founded twenty years ago by Theo Patterson to prevent a mountain bike ban in Forest Park. Although very few singletrack trails in Forest Park are available to mountain bikes twenty years later, the twenty-nine miles of pathways and trails provide a rare mountain biking experience in the city limits of Portland.
PUMP advocates for recreational access on public lands, performs hundreds of hours of trailwork on trails in and around Portland, Tillamook, Mount Hood and Southwest Washington for the use of hikers, bikers and horseback riders and organizes rides and classes to train and educate mountain bikers.
PUMP hosts a Forest Park ride for all rider levels every Wednesday evening at 5:30 p.m. during daylight savings time, women's rides and Mountain Bike 101 classes. For more information on PUMP or the 20th birthday party, see the website or email susan [at] workforce-dynamics.com.
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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.
Each Saturday morning, rain or shine we have held the Saturday Team Oregon Ride west of Portland. This is a great opportunity to see the team in action. The ride runs year round and accepts cyclists of all levels of
development that want to improve their cycling skills and fitness. Each weekend new people show up and continue to become part of the team. We pride ourselves on being approachable to anyone (not just racers) that wants to learn about cycling or improve. The Saturday ride meets at Liberty High School in Hillsboro at 9:30am every Saturday morning.
Team members are active in the Oregon bicycle racing community, and have assisted in organizing events, and volunteering at races/events. We are a passionate group that gives back to the community that we are very much tied to.
For 2008, we have partnered with Sunset Cycles as our title sponsor. Sunset Cycles has all the top gear to support our team.
To learn more or to join in on a ride with Team Oregon/Sunset Cycles please visit our website.
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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.
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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)."
The meetings will be held at the Pioneer Center, 501 NE Washington St., White Salmon, WA. The Forest Service has acquired several thousand acres of land since 1987 in the Burdoin Mountain, Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek areas. The area has become a very popular destination for recreational users, particularly mountain bikers and hikers. Numerous user trails and routes have developed over the past several years. The trails are located on a mix of public and private lands with some trails showing visible signs of erosion and impacts to adjacent natural and cultural_resources.
The proposed system would then be analyzed through the National Environmental_Protection Act (NEPA) process. For more information please contact Stan Hinatsu at 541-308-1708 or by email shinatsu@fs.fed.us.
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November 17, 2007
Holiday Bike Drive Update
The holiday season is right around the corner and for the Community Cycling Center that means Holiday Bike Drive time. The little elves of the CCC are hard at work getting bikes shiny, fixing flat tires, putting on new seats and making sure that hundreds of donated bikes (550, to be exact) are the best gifts for the little tykes who will take them home.
Volunteers have been coming in just about every day but the CCC doesn't have 550 bikes just yet - they've got 464. And they definitely have not reached the $46,000 they need to fund the program - they have raised $13,780 so far.
So the CCC is asking for your help. You can donate a bike, donate your time or donate a financial contribution to ensure a successful Holiday Bike Drive. Check out their website for details
This article is part of ORbike's ongoing coverage of the Community Cycling Center's Holiday Bike Drive.
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November 1, 2007
A Renewed Vision for the CCC
The Community Cycling Center got its start as a community resource center in the most authentic of ways. Brian Lacy, a cyclist with mechanic skills, was fed up with seeing children on the street without supervised activities and without functioning bikes. He decided to combine those two needs with his skills by bringing a repair stand out onto the sidewalk and offering to fix the kids' bikes if they would stick around to watch and learn. That was over 13 years ago. The Community Cycling Center now has a large building (that's still not large enough), a community bike shop, 2,000 volunteers and programs that serve hundreds of kids every year. And after all this growth, the staff decided that maybe it was time to stop, take a breath assess where they were headed and how they should get there.
This intensive visioning process resulted in a refined mission statement, a renewed commitment to the community, a huge open house party and great hope for future growth. So what is their mission now?
The mission now states that "The Community Cycling Center broadens access to bicycling and its benefits through our hands-on programs, volunteer projects, and neighborhood bike shop. We believe bicycles are a tool for personal empowerment and a vehicle for social change." Instead of their former system of providing programs to youth and happening to have one adult program, the CCC has solidified their commitment to the entire community. "Getting kids on bikes is great" says Director of Development Alison Hill-Graves. "But getting the entire family on bikes is even better."
The CCC provides clubs and camps for kids and classes and clinics for adults. They integrate paying workshop attendees with low-income scholarship-funded participants to bring the community together in a learning environment. They will also be assessing what the community really wants and needs and working to create new programs. They will be providing programs for women and hope to develop programs for teens.
Alison says their open house was "a new chapter in the future of the CCC." 2007 was their most financially successful year in the bike shop. They're financially stable and have reserve funds to help them get through the winter season, a time that's always difficult for bike shops. "We're stronger than we've ever been" Alison says.
This article is part of ORbike's ongoing coverage of the Community Cycling Center's Holiday Bike Drive.
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March 12, 2007
Alice B. Toeclips
This year's BTA Alice B. Toeclips awards was a great gala affair. I've been to the event maybe four times, and I have to say, this year's was the best. I guess when you pack a room with some of the most inspiring and exciting cyclists in Oregon, you're bound to have a good time. For a great recap of the event and photos, see BikePortland.org. Jonathan Maus of BikePortland was a very deserving winner of an Alice award. From all of us here at ORbike, Jonathan, we send you a hearty congrats!
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February 5, 2007
A Vanilla for Candi
Okay, I can mention this now because the secret's out: last night at the OBRA awards dinner, Candi Murray, a former OBRA volunteer, was presented with a certificate for a custom bike by Vanilla Bicycles at the OBRA. OBRA racers had been collecting funds and putting together a bike to honor Candi for her years of dedication to OBRA. (I wrote about her departure from OBRA and all of her accomplishments here).
Yann Blindert was the one who came up with the idea for the gift. " [Candi's] commitment to OBRA has resulted in Oregon being one of the best places to race and ride bicycles. She devoted close to the same amount of time to OBRA as we do to our careers. While I have only benefited from Candi's contributions for three or so years, I think we owe her a gift to show our gratitude. And what nicer gift could there be than a Candi Vanilla for Candi."
Candi was overwhelmed by the gift, which was miraculously kept secret while Yann and others worked to collect donations over the last few months. Here's what Candi had to say:
"Last night at the OBRA banquet I was overwhelmed with surprises and awards. You cannot imagine by delight at being presented with a certificate for my very own custom Vanilla that was put together by a group of OBRA riders and bike shops. I cannot express how honored I am. Thank you all so very much. "
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December 4, 2006
Map Tool to Find Bike Shops and Clubs
MapMuse’s goal is to help people find places related to their interests. MapMuse continues to add new topics of interest each week. About 6 months ago they began a project to map bike shops and clubs across the US. According to the organizers, "Since this project was started, the public has made hundreds of additions and enhancements to these maps. We now have one of the most comprehensive databases of bicycle shops and cycling clubs in the US." Oregon's a little lacking, but maybe that will change...
BIKE SHOPS | BIKE CLUBS
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November 20, 2006
First Day of the Year Ride
Details have just been released for the very first big ride of 2007 - the First Day of the Year Ride (not connected to the Hottest or Worst Day of the Year Rides). This ride is organized by the BTA and meets at Waterfront Park at noon on January 1st. For details, see our calendar.
Speaking of the Worst Day of the Year Ride, the ride is February 11th this year. 1,500 people came out last year to ride on what could have been terrible weather, but wound up being super nice. In fact, there has been good weather for this ride every year. Registration though our website will open later this month.
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November 17, 2006
PUMP Swap Meet
The much-anticipated annual Portland United Mountain Pedalers (PUMP) swap meet is coming up. From the looks of the flyer and the buzz around town, PUMP is keeping this time-tested event fresh and as always there will be great deals on gear and parts. There are raffles every 15 minutes. The swap is at The Friendly House, 1737 NW 26th (Located one block east of the Fat Tire Farm). The meager $2 entry fee benefits PUMP's efforts to promote safe responsible mountain biking on sustainable trails.
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October 12, 2006
Candi Murray, Tireless Volunteer, Retires from OBRA
Candi Murray, a 25-year OBRA volunteer, is now retiring. Along with her husband Mike, Candi has been a tireless contributor to the local bike racing scene. For 10 years she was the Oregon representative for USA Cycling until OBRA broke from that organization. At that time, Candi became exclusively and aggressively involved in the success of OBRA. Under her guidance, Oregon grew from just 700 racers to over 3,000 this year.
Candi says her involvement with racing was a natural evolution. "It was something that my husband did and I wanted to help and be involved. Mike, has been the director of the Alpenrose Velodrome for over 20 years and it just grew from that."
Though Candi makes it sound simple, Candi volunteers 50-60 hours a week during peak season and "only" 20-30 hours a week in the off season.
It's the riders, she says, that keep her going. "I absolutely love them. It is a real community and we all look out for each other. The other nice thing is that there are no age lines. One day I will be with people my age and the next minute I am with juniors and young adults. I always said that it would keep me young."
But don't worry, now that Candi is retiring, her youthful spirit won't accelerate into old age and she wants to be very clear that she is definitely not going to disappear. "No, I am not" she says. "I just want to get out from under the burden of the administrative details. I will still be going to races. I will still be officiating. They are not going to get rid of me so easy!"
And the OBRA volunteers are not replacing Candi easily, either. Candi's one-person position be being divided amongst three people, with Sal Collura from Eugene taking over a majority of the duties. Terri Camp will handle membership and Michael O'Hair will oversee equipment. Yes, Candi did all of that. And more.
Candi is rightfully very proud of the growth of the Oregon racing scene. It is something close to her heart. "I look at it like a parent. When Mike and I took over there were just under 700 racers in the state. We will top over 3000 this year. Velonews just did a survey and we were ranked first in the "Racers per Population Base" category and second in both "Total Number of Racers" and "Total Number of Events". I feel that we are personally responsible for most of that growth. We made it inexpensive to join and tried to make the community very inclusive and accepting of all riders."
With all this newly-found time on her hands, Candi is (surprise) going to spend her free time riding her bike. When asked about her position as a racer or a rider, Candi enthusiastically proclaims, "[I'm a] racer!!! I have one speed. Whether it is uphill, downhill, on the track or road. I used to say that I have never passed any rider in any event. While that is no longer true it is still pretty close! We live out in East County. I like to ride out by Rosalyn Lake and up to Lolo Pass. I like to ride the Springwater Trail on my fixed gear. I like to ride out to PIR via Marine Drive."
So if you see Candi out there on the road, or at a fall Cyclocross race, congratulate her, thank her and wish her well in her new adventures. We here at ORbike certainly do. Thank you, Candi, for all you have done for Oregon cycling.
Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 10:39 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 6, 2006
World Exotica Bike Dance Party
Community Exchange Cycle Touring Club is an organization that promotes cross-border and cross-cultural bike touring, offers free clinics and encourages rider self-sufficiency. They're known for showing up at local bike events and offering free repair service. At their headquarters in SE Portland, they offer free bike repair clinics.
Community Exchange is a collaborative effort, but the mastermind behind it all is Steven Kung, a charismatic person with an infectious spirit. I guarantee you, spend 10 minutes with this man and you'll be inspired to contribute more to the world. Steven is filled with ideas and ways to make them happen. He is systematically building the organization on a local level with hopes for global reach in the future.
And in the meantime, Community Exchange needs a revenue stream to help float their projects and pay for their planned web projects. Their first fundraiser, World Exotica, is this Saturday at Center Space, 420 SE 6th Avenue, from 8pm-2am. The event features live music and DJs throughout the night, free food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and hundreds of dollars in raffle prizes. The venue is smoke free, there is free bike parking and entry is $15. You can get free entry with a used bike donation or $5 off if you wear an exotic world costume or bring a healthy potluck item. For more information, contact them through their website or call 503/957.6672.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 11:30 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
September 7, 2006
BTA Open House
The Bicycle Transportation Alliance has new digs and they want you to see them. Michelle from the BTA says, "We’re nearly settled into our new (fantastic) office with its (fantastic) local lunch options and the (fantastic) Park Blocks close by for shady walks and naps. So now it’s time to throw a party! Come to our Open House on Weds., Sept. 27 - we’ll have drinks and snacks, newly painted walls to admire and critique, and good bikey company. It’ll be a casual, stop-by-after-work kind of affair. All are welcome!"
The new office is at 1979 SW 5th (just north of the freeway near PSU) from 5-7 pm. I hope that this new spacious office will offer the BTA staff the support they need to continue to do great work advocating for the rights of cyclists in Oregon and SW Washington - if they're not too distracted by those delightful shady walks and naps.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:22 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 9, 2006
Looking for Work?
Great opportunity to work in the field of bikes:
Safe Routes to School Program Coordinator - Bicycle Transportation Alliance
Description: $11-13.50/hr./DOE (Full-time 40hr per week position)
The Safe Routes to School Program Coordinator will work with the Bicycle Transportation Alliance and Willamette Pedestrian Coalition to coordinate walking and biking encouragement and education programs in eight Portland Public Schools. The coordinator will work with principals, school staff, parents, and community members to provide encouragement, education, engineering, and enforcement programs in each school. The programs teach and inspire school age youth to be safe and predictable bicyclists and pedestrians, and promote safe transportation to and from school. The coordinator will report to the Safe Routes to School Program Director.
For an application contact Katherine Wilson: Katherine@bta4bikes.org.
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August 4, 2006
BTA Survey
A current BTA survey is trying to gather inforamtion from riders of all skill level and they hope to use the data to improve cycling in Portland. You can complete the survey here.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 10:20 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 27, 2006
Who's Riding on Hot Days?
Do you have to be crazy to sign up for a ride called the Hottest Day of the Year Ride? Well, 1,500 people signed up for the Worst Day of the Year Ride this year, so the hottest has got to be pretty great also right? That's what 29 year old Carrie Bader thinks and she's pumped to ride.
Carrie says, "I always like to take advantage of any good organized outdoor events during the summer - I also don't bike much outside of my usual commute, so it's a chance to get out and try a new route." She says that for sure she's really looking forward to the post-ride water fight and ice cream sundaes.
Carrie's regular riding mostly includes her 10-miles-a-day commute to work or school. This summer she also rode the Tour d'Organics in June on the 30-mile route.
Carrie is one of hundreds of people who are signing up for the Hottest Day of the Year Ride - a benefit for the Community Cycling Center. Tons of volunteers will ensure there aren't long lines - to check in or to make your ice cream sundae at the finish line. If the weather is anything line today, it won't be the hottest, but it will be one of the best days to ride.
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July 10, 2006
The Night Ride - a Huge Success!
By all accounts, The Night Ride on Saturday night was a huge success! Many other large (and larger) cities have great night rides, and we really wanted to see one in Portland. The old night ride was laid to rest and this new, improved ride was wildly popular. Costumed riders were everywhere. I was really impressed with some of the get-ups (riders dressed as dice!) It was clear people were having fun and had put a lot of time into their outfits. I was especially loving all the coordinated group costumes (the nurses!)
Photo Gallery | Nighttime Club ride recap | Report from BikePortland.org
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May 31, 2006
Bicycle Trails Meeting
Roger Louton, president of PUMP just sent over an announcement about an important bicycle trails meeting on Thursday from 6:30-8pm at the Portland Building. There are 221 miles of regional trails planned (some complete), and Roger wants to know "How many will be open to bicycles, and of that how many could be classified as singletrack?" He's striving to pack the meeting with mtb-enthusiasts to show Parks and Rec there is demand for singletrack.
This file contains Portland Parks and Recreation's presentation about the project.
MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
You are invited to a presentation on the Strategy for Regional Recreational
Trails within Portland.
Thursday, June 1, 2006
6:30 - 8:00 PM
Portland Building - Second Floor, Room C 1120 SW Fifth Avenue Portland, OR
June 3rd is National Trails Day! What better time to think about Portland's
trail system?
Toward the end of June, Portland Parks & Recreation will be taking our Regional Recreational Trails Strategy to City Council. Regional Trails connect our city to adjacent communities and to regionally
significant features such as rivers and streams. Portland has 22 existing and planned Regional Trails, totaling 221 miles. Of those, 146 miles (66%) are complete!
Now, working within the context of other regional planning frameworks, Portland Parks & Recreation has developed a 20 year strategy for completing Portland's Regional Recreational Trail System. Please join us to learn about the strategy and how it will be used to guide future regional trail development decisions.
This presentation is intended to provide trail advocates and other interested citizens with an in-depth overview of the draft Strategy and an opportunity for Q & A and further discussion.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:17 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
May 18, 2006
YUM! BTA Benefit BBQ at New Seasons
New Seasons does an awesome job with their fundraising BBQs to benefit local organizations. For the third year, New Seasons will host a springtime BBQ for our local bike advocates, the BTA. Last year the BTA was able to raise $6,000 from people like you just eating a burger (veggie or not). The barbecues take place at every New Seasons
If you are interested in participating, contact Michelle@bta4bikes.org or 503-226-0676 x13.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:33 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
May 5, 2006
Pump Club Turns 18!
Portland United Mountain Pedalers (PUMP) is a mountain bike club that works to promote and enhance quality mountain biking recreational opportunities in Oregon and Washington. They're celebrating 18 great years and want you to come to the party.
Head on out to Sellwood Public House, 8132 SE 13th Avenue, on Saturday from 7-10. $5 suggested donation gets you a beverage (beer), all proceeds go towards PUMP's work to keep trails open and improve riding opportunites.
A lot of people know about PUMP because of their annual swap meet at Friendly House, but they do so much more. Whether on the trail or on the internet, the PUMP members share info on trails, alert the community to important trail issues, ride the heck out of the trails and work on clean up and advocacy. They really do some admirable work and are quite an asset to our bike community.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 9:04 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
May 3, 2006
Dear Dabby
Portland United Messenger Association (PUMA) now has it's own advice columnist...Dear Dabby (a recent, and excellent, guest on the KBOO Bike Show).
As PUMA puts it, "As many of you know, Dabby is an expert on almost everything. If you need help help with gear ratios, relationships, finances or pretty much anything else Dabby is here to help you. Send him an email now and you'll thank yourself later."
For more info, or to seek out advice, see the PUMA website.
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Reserve Some Time: Portland Bike Summit
Bicycling Magazine calls Portland the number one bicycling city in all of North America. The League of American Bicyclists rates Portland "Gold" along with four other U.S. cities. The next level is platinum and no large city has gotten there yet. Commissioner Sam Adams and the bicycling community want to Go Platinum! and they want your help.
On Saturday, June 17 from 8:30 to 1:30 pm, you are invited to join neighborhood and bicycling advocates at the Portland Bike Summit at PSU's Smith Hall. It's an opportunity to learn how we got to be the best in the U.S. and find out about all the exciting and fun ways you can get involved to make Portland a world-class bicycling city.
Workshop topics include:
- Portland's I Share the Road campaign
- Innovations in Bikeways Here and Abroad
- Who Put the Fun in Bike Fun? From Breakfast on the Bridges to Pedalpalooza
- New Laws for Bikes - What Strategies are on the Horizon
- Why Do People Not Ride - Really (or How to Get My Next Door Neighbor/Co-worker/Friend on a Bike)
FREE and lunch is included.
Should you attend? PDOT is encouraging attendance from anyone who bikes, likes bikes, wants to bike, owns a bike, etc.
[ More info ]
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April 13, 2006
Do Bikey Bunny Things This Weekend
What is it with bunnies and bikes? I don't know, but this weekend you've got options.
Chasing the Rabbit is a mt bike race in Grants Pass on 50% logging and 50% singletrack. There's also an easter egg hunt for the kids. Proceeds from the race will benefit Pistis, a non-profit cycling ministry. April 15.
Bunny on a Bike is a fun, three-year-old, unsupported urban ride. This year's theme is Bunnies on Bridges and they'll cross many of the bridges. Free, all ages, and bunny costumes are expected. April 16.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:32 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
April 6, 2006
Promote Clean Air + Lung Health - Volunteer for Reach the Beach
The American Lung Association of Oregon(ALAO) is working hard for clean Oregon air and to promote lung health and research with their 2,000 person-strong benefit ride Reach the Beach. Maybe you're not up for a ride all the way to Pacific City, maybe you've got friends who don't ride or maybe you just want to stand around and make a difference off the bike. Perfect! Hundreds of volunteers, whatever your personal reason, make it possible for the 2,000 riders to be on course raising funds for the ALAO.
Volunteers get free lunch, a commemorative hat and a free pass to join us at the gigantic beach party in Pacific City. May 20th. See website for details on volunteering: www.ReachTheBeach.org.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:03 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
March 31, 2006
Sauvie Island Group Ride
The Community Exchange Cycle Touring Club has grand plans for this upcoming season. They stated as a club with a lot of experience that wants to help more people try distance riding and touring. They offer support, bike fitting, bike repair, free smoothies and spin classes at their weekly Saturday open shop days. The founder, Steven Kung, is vibrant and enthusiastic. Check out this great ride he has planned for this weekend:
Sauvie Island Group Rides - April 2nd, 33-mile & 12-mile loops.
Ride Levels: Easy (Lower Sauvie Island 12-mile Loop), Intermediate (Eastbank to Sauvie Island + Lower Sauvie Island Loop: 33 miles). The ride is accompanied by bike mechanics.
The schedule:
( all times are estimates )
1:00 PM
Pre-ride free safety-check & mini-tune at Eastbank Esplanade Madison
Street Parking Lot. UBI certified mechanic(s) will be available with
tools & bike stand.
2:00 PM
Intermediate Ride Group assembles at Madison Plaza: Eastbank Esplanade & Madison Street
Parking Lot.
2:10 PM
Intermediate Ride Group departs. Ride from Madison Plaza to Sauvie Island, mostly along Highway 30.
(Expect to negotiate rain & road traffic: great for touring training.) Pace will be touring speed (10-14mph).
3:00 PM
The Easy Group assemble in parking lot of Cracker Barrel Grocery on Sauvie Island, 15005 NW Sauvie Island Rd. (phone: 503-621-3960). It is on the left hand side of road immediately after getting off Sauvie Island Bridge. Trimet Bus #17 goes to Sauvie Island.
Intermediate Group arrives at this location.
3:10 PM
Both groups depart. Take Sauvie Island Road - Reeder Road - Gillihan Road to loop around lower Sauvie Island.
4:10 PM
Both Groups return to Cracker Barrel Grocery parking lot. Easy Group Ride complete.
Intermediate Group returns to Madison Plaza following same arrival path.
5:00 PM
Intermediate Group arrives at Madison Plaza.
ALL TIMES ARE ESTIMATES.
This is a good chance to test out your bicycle, safety equipment, ride
clothing, and tool kits.
We recommend bringing the following gear:
Helmet
Wireless Phone
Gloves
Hooded jacket or head covering
Rain gear if necessary
Riding glasses
Tool pouch/multi-tool
Frame Pump or CO2 Inflator/Cartridges
Spare tubes/Patches
Water bottles or Hydration pack
Light Snack
Bike: (Preferrably with fenders in case of rain)
All new riders will need to sign Liability Release Agreement before
departure. Under 18 riders please be accompanied by an adult.
This ride is sponsored by the Community Exchange Cycle Touring Club, a
global non-profit organization with the goal of connecting diverse
world communities through reciprocated exchange bicycle tours.
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Westside Invite
Portland United Messenger Association (PUMA) just announced the schedule for the infamous Westside Invite May 26-28. The annual messenger blowout features skid competitions, alley cats, raging parties and demonstrations of raw skill.
(Photo courtesy of PUMA)
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:09 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
March 24, 2006
Can you Reach the Beach?
In May, all roads lead to the Pacific City beach. Hop on your bike from one of four different start locations on Reach the Beach, a fundraiser for the American Lung Association of Oregon, and join us for a sink-your-toes-in-the-sand party on the beach. This is my third year helping organize Reach the Beach and I can tell you it's an amazing ride.
Registration is only $25. You are also required to raise a minimum of $50 in donations for the American Lung Association of Oregon, and the website offers easy to use fundraising tools that make it fun and simple to send out messages and exceed your goal. Motivated fundraisers may qualify for great prizes such as a free pass to Cycle Oregon, a Trek bike, a ride on STP and more. Every dollar you raise helps the ALAO promote lung health and keep our Oregon air clean. They're working hard and they're saving lives and they need your help.
How does this sound: a beautiful route, breakfast, two lunch stops, 10 rest stops, dinner at the finish line, a brew pub on site, music, prizes and the backdrop of the ocean. Yes, I think it just doesn't get much better than this.
Reach the Beach also features a mt. bike course for those who want a little off road challenge.
Each of the five routes is a different distance, the most challenging being a century ride out of Portland. If you want to challenge yourself and you've never done a century, training rides led by the Portland Wheelmen will help you build up to that century.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:57 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
March 4, 2006
Bingo at North Portland Bikeworks
Who doesn't like playing bingo? But this ain't your grandma's bingo, no! You'll be playing for cool prizes from many great Portland businesses and it is a fundraiser for North Portland Bikeworks. These folks have gotten to be known for their raucously fun bingo nights.
Saturday March 11, 8pm
Mississippi Rising Ballroom
4000 N Mississippi Av (at Shaver)
Cards are $1 each. Beer is $2!
North Portland BikeWorks is a collectively run non-profit neighborhood learning center that provides information, resources and skill-sharing programs to low-income and marginalized populations to advocate the use of environmentally sustainable, self-reliant transportation. They are located at 3951 N. Mississippi Ave in Portland's Boise neighborhood.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:29 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 17, 2006
Worst Day of the Year Ride Photo Booth
Ride participants at the Worst Day of the Year Ride donned costumes and mugged for the camera at the Photo Booth. The resulting pictures are hilarious - a true indication of how much fun everyone was having that the event. Nikkie West, the Bike Art Coordinator at the Community Cycling Center, did a great job encouraging riders to ham it up. Check out this photo gallery we put together.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:23 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 14, 2006
OBRA Feature on Oregonian Bike Blog
[ From the Oregonian Bike Blog ]
Did you know that Oregon is one of the hotbeds of bicycle racing in the United States? Unless you are a racer (or live with someone who is), you're not likely to appreciate Oregon's rich racing calendar and heritage.
Bike races in Oregon are held under the auspices of the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association or OBRA. Under the able leadership of Candi and Mike Murray, OBRA has grown steadily and last year put on a total of 129 weekend races and 189 weeknight and evening races.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:26 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 10, 2006
OBRA had a Good 2005
Candi Murray recently released these updated numbers on participation rates for the 2005 OBRA season. Looks like they had some great growth in nearly all categories. The mtn numbers may look a little low, but Mike Ripley just took over as the 2006 OBRA mtb coordinator and he has a lot of ideas and excitement for the new season.
Rider Counts 2005
Difference +/- Percentage
Total 3267 507 18
CCx only 305 5 1.6
Mtn 1134 123 12
DH 327 127 63
Road 2087 350 20
Combined 872 294 50.8
Road
Catgories Difference +/- Percentage
I 66 1 1.5
II 174 30 20.8
III 503 36 7.7
IV 659 108 19.6
V 713 225 46
Difference +/- Percentage
Jr (18 + undr) 267 32 13.6
Senior (19-29) 591 183 44.8
Master 30-39 1180 431 57.5
Master 40-49 801 298 59.2
Master 50+ 428 210 96
Women 420 124 41.8
Mtn 2005 Difference +/- Percentage
Pro 30 11 57.8
Elite 43 -7 -14
Expert 271 74 37.5
Sport 508 109 27.3
Beg 311 73 30.6
* Highest Attendance *
2005 Difference +/- Percentage
CCX 760 140 22.5
Circuit 218 -18 -7
Crit 268 41 18
Road 453 136 42.9
Stage 455 65 16.6
Time Trial 350 28 8.6
Mtn 272 -99 -26
Track 80 18 29
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:23 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 7, 2006
53 Degrees and Partly Sunny - Worst Day of the Year Ride?
Well folks, it looks like for the fifth year in a row the weather might be pretty nice for the Worst Day of the Year Ride (2/12 at the Lucky Lab). The ride is scheduled to honor some of the worst weather in Oregon's history: the great flood of 1996 and the coldest day recorded (-54 in 1933), but every year the sun is shining.
Portland riding doesn't get much better than this: 18 miles (or a 40-mile challenge loop), four rest stops with hot drinks and yummy snacks, all-you-can-eat veggie chili and chicken noodle soup plus fresh-from-the-oven cornbread at the finish line, Last Regiment Syncopated Drum Corp, Lucky Lab beer for sale and it's a benefit for the Community Cycling Center.
Register before store closing at REIs, Bike Galleries, Lucky Labs, CCCs or River City and get a discount.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:41 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 6, 2006
46 Bike Enthusiasts
The BTA received nominations for 46 bike enthusiasts for the Alice B. Toeclips awards. These 46 are being recognized for their outstanding efforts to make Oregon the best state for biking. Tickets are on sale now for the awards dinner where eight of these people will be chosen to receive an Alice award.
Check out the nominees...
-Sam Adams, Portland City Commission
-Eileen Adee, Medford
-Matthew Arnold, SERA Architects, Portland
-Jeff Bernards, Get Lit Program, Portland I nominated Jeff
-Joe Blowers, East Sylvan Middle School, Portland
-Gary Brannan, Portland
-Tom Brian, Chair, Washington County Commission, Hillsboro
-Senator Ginny Burdick, Oregon State Legislature, Portland
-Representative Chuck Burley, Oregon State Legislature, Bend
-Graham Clark, Portland
-Chuck Coleman, American Medical Response, Portland
-Critical Mass Working Group, Portland
-Hannah Cross, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland
-Representative Jacqueline Dingfelder, Oregon State Legislature, Portland
-Theresa Egan, Portland
-Lillie Fitzpatrick, Bridlemile Elementary School, Portland
-Mark Ginsberg, Portland I nominated Mark
-Brandon Gordon, Portland
-Paul Grow, Crosstown Traffic, Joseph
-Bill Haskins, Crater Lake Century Bike Tour, Klamath Falls
-Jim Henry, West Salem High School, Salem
-Edgar Hee, Medford
-Matt Larsen, Multnomah County Bicycle Program, Portland
-Jim Lawrence, Albany
-Kiran Limaye, TriMet, Portland
-Gregg Leion, Washington Co Dept of Land Use & Transportation, Hillsboro
-Jonathan Maus, bikeportland.org, Portland
-Jeff Monson, Commute Options for Central Oregon, Bend
-Peter Nierengarten, Portland
-Gareth Parker, Portland
-Darren Pennington, Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland
-Lynn Peterson, Lake Oswego City Council
-Jacquie Phelan, Women’s Mountain Biking & Tea Society, Fairfax, CA
-Providence Portland Medical Center Bike Group
-Phil Richman, Portland
-Andrew Ross, Corvallis Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
-David Ross, Portland
-Randy Sebastian, Renaissance Homes, Lake Oswego
-Jeff Sims, Sisters Trails Committee, Sisters
-Chris Smith, portlandtransport.org, Portland
-Amy Stork, Portland
-Sara Stout, Portland
-Ray Thomas, Swanson Thomas & Coon, Portland
-Amy Wantulok, Bike Gallery, Portland
-Caleb Winter, TriMet, Portland
-Bob Woodward, Bend
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:12 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
January 20, 2006
BTA's New Website
BTA has a new website. I had heard it was coming for a while and just saw the new edition today. The new site is full of great information and even has a blog. BTA is really active and even has a full-time lobbyist, and now with the new site they'll be able to easily tell everyone about their good work "opening minds and roads to bicycling. Looks like they still have some kinks to work out (dead pages and all) but it's a lively improvement.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:06 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
January 12, 2006
Alice B. Toeclips Nomination Deadline Extended
BTA has extended their date for accepting nominations for the Alice B. Toeclips awards. I've already nominated two people. I can think of a whole slew of others who I could have nominated. I'd love to tell you who the chosen ones are, but they don't know and I want it to be a surprise. If they don't win, I'm posting their nomination letters here. I was the Susan Lucci of the Alice awards - always nominated but never chosen - until last year. Let me tell you, it's quite an honor.
Nominate online until Jan 18th.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 4:01 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
The St. Valentines Day Massacre April Fool's Day : Alley Cat Race
The good folks at Portland United Messenger Association are talking up the April Fool's (formerly St. Valentine's) Day alley cat race. Saturday, April. 1, 2pm, Sw Park and Salmon, 90 minute points race, everyone is welcome, $5 entry, half to the winner, half to The Big fix.
Followed by: polo - Sunday April 2, noon, Alberta Park, NE 20th and Killingsworth, free, and there may even be a trophy. Even if you don't play, polo is awesome to watch.
ABOUT ALLEY CAT RACES:
From The Immortal Class: Bike Messengers and the Cult of Human Power
Scross down to read Travis Culley's thrilling account of an alley cat.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:27 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
December 30, 2005
River City's Fixed Gear Rides
For four years now David Auker has organized weekly fixed gear rides that start from River City. Rain or shine, 2 people or 16, the group rides. I spent some time asking David about these rides and here's what he had to say.
Why fixed? What's so great about fixed?
Ah, that would take a long time to get close to describing the magic! Suffice it to say it has a certain "feel" of connection to the wheel, and this is the appeal. Skill-wise, it's both more difficult and easier than a gearS bike; it gives an incredible feeling to the outer quad when applying back-pressure to the drivetrain (to slow down), and this is the same muscle-usage that takes some easing into (if you want to walk for the next week!). I will say it's not universal in appeal to everyone, and not to be ridden exclusively (for flyin' countryside rides, gearS IS fun!).
What bike do you ride
I have two fixed-gears: a rain fendered, and a light carbon; both road bikes, both 42x18 gears.
What keeps you going in the winter (you personally).
It's like visiting the wilderness when the weather is "adverse;" we are responsible for protecting ourselves against the elements, and this is so different than the normal lifestyles our modern climate-controlled environs offer. I get a lot of satisfaction from devising clothing to fit the outdoor conditions. It's a way to keep from getting too soft, and I think we need to do physically taxing "fight or flight" body moves most every day...cycling is great for that (a steep hill takes everything we can muster!).
Who shows up?
We've had up to about 16 riders, and they range from racer-types to serious commuter-types.
Any memorable moments on the rides?
In the past, our decision of where to ride was discussed that morning, so we sometimes got exploratory and ended up on some "interesting" roads, like narrow highways in the rain. Fun, but now we always do the same route, which makes it easy to just head out and do the ride! I guess we've had one shoulder separation injury from a crash, but besides a flat tire here and there, nothing too dramatic has befallen us.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:10 AM | Permalink
December 16, 2005
ORbike Supports the Bike Park
We've reviewed PUMP's proposal and we agree! Our mission is to support cycling in Oregon and we support the construction of a mountain bike park in Portland.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 12:41 PM | Permalink
December 13, 2005
Holiday Bike Drive
Last Sunday, the Community Cycling Center filled the Legacy hospital atrium with bikes for their Holiday Bike Drive. They invited musicians and face painters, set out snacks, recruited 200 volunteers and welcomed hundreds of children to the party. The children got matched up with a volunteer buddy to cruise the aisles and look for a very special bike. The children received helmets and helmet training and also a custom bike fitting.
Hundreds more children will receive bikes next Sunday in Vancouver. Volunteers are needed. I've been at the Holiday Bike Drive for the last five years and believe me, you don't want to miss it. The Holiday Bike Drive is a pretty special event. For more information, see the CCC's website.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 2:16 PM | Permalink
December 7, 2005
Nominate Your Bike Heroes for Alice B. Toeclips Award
The Alice B. Toeclips Awards are the Bicycle Transportation Allicance's (BTA) way of recognizing bike advocates throughout Oregon. It's basically THE award to get if you're a total bike enthusiast. And there's a fun party in conjunction, complete with wine at every table and a well-stocked silent auction.
Here's more info from Brita at the BTA:
On March 4th, 2006, the Alice B. Toeclips Awards Party will honor bike advocates from around Oregon and SW Washington who were nominated by their peers. It's time once again for the bike community to praise and laud the everyday heroes who make biking safer, easier and more fun!
Who in your community - an individual, business, government agency or other group - has provided inspiration to cyclists or helped make bikes a part of the fabric of your community?