It’s that time again -  the annual Spring Bike Swap presented by Cycle 9 – Sunday April 10 9am-3pm, or so.  As always, space is free for vendors and the public.  Shops are welcome to bring their wares.  Back Alley Bikes, Reidsville Bikeshop, and ReCyclery NC are on the list.  There is plenty of free parking and space to set up tables, tents, blankets, rocking chairs, etc.  The Looking Glass Cafe’ adjacent to us, has plenty of great food and beverages for purchase.  It’s a great time to sell (or get rid of) that stuff gathering dust in the parts box.  The previous Spring Swap’s have seen upwards of 200 people in attendance.  So, it’s kind of a big deal.  Come join and geek out with us on bike parts galore!

Contact Steve at 919-636-5909 or steve@cycle9.com

Ortileb and Tubus  - Incredible Touring Gear now available

After some heated debate (not really, but it sounds good) we are now an Ortileb and Tubus dealer. Our touring business took off last summer so we added some selection to the touring bikes we carry. We in turn added some expedition worthy front and rear racks. Now, we have some of the best racks, bags and panniers on hand. If you haven’t heard of Ortlieb, or Tubus for that matter, do a little searching  about touring. Their name and reputation is top notch.

What do that mean to you? Well, we are the only bike shop in the area, possibly this part of the state that stocks true touring equipment. We have the knowledge to assist you in your important gear decisions. Plus, we like talking about it. Good luck finding that anywhere else.

Feel free to call, email or come by with any questions about touring (or whatever else is on your mind).

My name is Steve and I am your local bike shop.

Honestly, I don’t expect you to be able to work on your bike.  And mostly, that’s okay–we’re here for you.  But there are a couple of exceptions that will markedly improve your bike-riding life.  And I bet you already know what they are…

Number One:  Changing a tire, or inner tube. For most us, this experience will reveal itself as the Dreaded Flat Tire.  But really, it doesn’t have to be the ordeal that you may have been imagining.  And a little instruction goes a long way.

Number Two:  Lubricating your chain. You’re probably thinking, “How involved can that be?”  And you’re right; a lot of methods will work here.  But they don’t all work well, and there is a Better Way, and I can help with that.

And so, on December 16, we’ll have our first in a series of basic maintenance classes.  Many of you have already expressed interest, and we’ll be contacting you folks directly soon.  For the rest of you, please contact us at Cycle 9, and we’ll get you signed up and scheduled.

The first class will be December 16, at 6:30p.  The next class is tentatively scheduled for December 19, at 2:00p.  Cost for these classes will be $15 (that’s one flat fix), and we’ll be offering special pricing on supplies for attendees.  So please join me; it will fun, really.

I’m Tod, and I’m your local bike shop.

So, you may have noticed a few things changingwith Cycle9. New faces (relatively speaking), new bike line (see Tod’s entry about Jamis bikes), web updates, customer’s custom spec’d bikes, new blog authors, etc.

If you’ve been in our retail store lately, chances are good you’ve spoken with me. My name is Steve. I am a somewhat new addition to Cycle9 and this is my blog-tastic debut. I am generally a Luddite when it comes to social media venues: which is sad, I know. So bear with me.

I’d like to think that I’ve had a part in creating some of the changes going on at Cycle9. The truth is, the driving force is you. Being customer service fanatics, we’ve been listening. We’ve found ourselves building a fair amount of custom bikes lately. Small things from different handlebars, stems and saddles to full on, pick-every-part customs. Was this because you couldn’t find what you were looking for elsewhere or were we just crazy enough to say “Sure, we can do that.” I like to think both.

Over the past few months, we’ve had a huge interest in touring bikes and gear. Part of this prompted a new bike line (more choices for you). We will soon be offering an expanded selection of racks and panniers to better serve this demand.

We’re also currently evaluating our entire product range. What does this mean to you? In a word, quality. We know that you work hard for your money. We are striving to find and carry products we believe in and use. We want you happy with your choices from Cycle9. Let us be the Guinea pig.

So yeah, things are changing.  We’re listening to you. Tell us what you are looking for. We have the knowledge and expertise to make riding fun again. The bottom line is this: we want you riding a bike you love. If you’re not, you need to come see us. And yes, we might be a little crazy but, don’t let that stop you.

My name is Steve and I’m your local bike shop.

Yes; if you love great bikes, and like getting more for your money.  Yes, if you like having options that put a premium on comfort, and durability.  And yes, if you’d prefer a beautiful bike that stands out from the cookie-cutter crowd.

The Jamis Aurora is great example of a good all-around road bike, and is quickly becoming a local favorite.  Its steel frame is both shock-absorbing, and durable.   Its frame geometry produces a stable, predictable bike, with a comfortable riding position.  It comes spec’d with larger-than-average, smooth-riding, puncture-resistant tires.  And its low gears will get you up most any hill, whether you’re touring cross-country or riding cross-town.  And it looks like this:

Just looking for a decent bike to get you around town?  You should definitely check out the Jamis Citizen 1.  At only $300, it’s a real bargain.  Upright handlebars and a cushy seat make for a comfortable commuter, while the steel frame mutes road noise.  And the zippy 700c wheels make a ride through the country no problem, too.  And it’s a sharp bike, regardless of price:

Is Jamis really that different from the other great bike manufacturers?  Absolutely not.  Like other standout bike producers, they offer a wide range of styles and models, at a broad variety of price points.  They make a great product, but here’s the thing–there are lot of good bikes out there.  But a good bike is only good if it’s right for YOU.  And that’s where we come in.  At Cycle 9, we have the expertise to put you on the right bike, with the right spec, and make sure it fits you properly, too.  And that’s what make a good bike a GREAT bike.  And that’s the real reason to buy your new bike at Cycle 9.  Though a sweet Jamis makes the choice that much better.

So please, come on by, and let us work our magic.  My name is Tod, and I’m your local bike shop.

Have you been dreaming of hitting the road one of these days?

It seems like a lot of you have based on the number that have been coming into the shop looking for the Long Haul Trucker. The “Trucker”, made by Surly bikes, has got to be the most popular touring bike ever. A recent visit by a couple of bike touring folk confirmed this when they told me that nearly every touring bike they saw on the road over their year+ long journey was a Long Haul Trucker.

Surly Long Haul Trucker

What is it that is so appealing? I don’t think it’s the understated design. Or the color selection (“Blacktacular”- anyone?”). Must be the comfort and durability of this bike that is built to go the distance (or more). From Surly’s website:

“The Long Haul Trucker was designed in all aspects to get you and your stuff to…wherever.  Its low bottom bracket and long chainstays provide comfort and stability, and those long stays increase heel clearance when carrying packed panniers.  We gave it ample tire clearance for larger tires (larger tires soak up a lot of road static) with room for fenders too.  The frame’s tubing is thicker-walled and larger-diameter than standard road and sport-touring frames, and this pre-tunes it for the weight of cargo.  And it’s got braze-ons for everything you’re likely to need, from racks to water bottle cages to spare spokes.”

Secretly (or not), I think there’s another reason this is one of hottest bikes we sell. Not only is it great for touring (and who wouldn’t want to take off for the weekend, the week or maybe a year or two), it’s also an awesome all-around bike.

If you can only have ONE bike – the LHT is your bike.

• It’s an awesome commuter – forgiving steel frame that you won’t be paranoid about getting a scratch in
• It’s the next best thing to a cargo bike for errands and trips – add bags and baskets galore to house your groceries and hardware. Or tow a trailer for those really big trips. You can even convert it to an Xtracycle, with the Free-Rad Add-on kit to go ultimate cargo.
• Friends going on a road ride? The trucker is there for you. It may not be quite as light as that $6,000 titanium custom job sported by your friend, but it’s the biker, not the bike, that makes a fast ride (and can that guy carry a case of beer home?)
• Off road-ing in the offing? This is not a mountain bike, but need to hit some dirt or gravel and you won’t need to freak out. With a bit of tire width and a ton of stability, you can tackle that gravel no problemo. (Good thing too, because I hear that roads aren’t smooth pavement everywhere in the world.)

But don’t believe me. Check out just a few of the many awesome reviews of the Trucker (no relation to us – you’ll find them on the web)

http://bikesfortherestofus.blogspot.com/2010/01/this-post-is-long-overdue.html

http://www.bicycletouring101.com/SurlyLongHaulTruckerReview.htm

http://www.ecovelo.info/2010/06/01/gallery-logans-surly-long-haul-trucker/

Why Buy your Trucker from us?

We’re not the only people around that sell Long Haul Truckers. But I bet we sell more of them locally than anyone else. Why?

• For one reason – We have bikes ON THE FLOOR, ready for you to try out. We regularly stock Truckers in 3 sizes and Cross Checks (another popular Surly bike) that you can come try out. No need to take a chance on something you haven’t tried.
• Two of our 6 employees happen to be bike touring afficianados – one (Tod) who has even crossed the continent several times on his bike. So not only do you get the bike, you get the help you need when fitting and outfitting the right bike. Just try to find that on the internet.
• We’ve also done a lot of Custom LHT builds for those who want their very own look. Want to add a Brooks saddle? We have them. Custom matching bar tape? Awesome stylish racks or heavy duty touring racks? Done that. We’ve even done complete builds from the frame up, using custom components of your choosing or recommended by our expert staff.
• If you’re looking for a bike to get around town, or a bike to get you across the world, our friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff won’t be beat by the competition.

Looking for other Surly Bikes?

In addition to the Long Haul Trucker, we stock the Cross Check and Big Dummy (cargo bike). We can special order and build for you any other surly bikes, including the Instigator, Karate Monkey, Pacer, Steam-Roller and 1×1.

Sophisticated, trendy, worldly, and refined.  These words pop into mind when I think of the people I encountered in my European travels.  With cycling integral to the Dutch culture, the Netherlands-based Batavus creates a city bike to couple the style of Europe with the practicality of a daily commute.  These bikes are characterized by their upright posture and low maintenance design.  They’re comfortable, relaxed, and the perfect way to get around town.  At Cycle 9, we’re pleased to bring some European elegance to North Carolina with our line of Batavus bikes.

Batavus Diva

The lowest maintenance Diva you will ever know!  With 3 speed Shimano Nexus hub gears and a fully enclosed chain ring, this bike is designed for hassle-free commuting.  The wider tires allow the Diva to carry heavy loads around town, while the aluminum frame lightens things up a bit.  The cushy seat and upright design make for a comfortable ride.  The Diva also features built in lights, fenders, and racks.  Is this diva high maintenance and demanding?  No.  Sexy and stylish?  Yes.

Cross Old Dutch style with modern biking technologies and you get the best of both worlds with the Fryslan.  Attractive and versatile, the Fryslan’s 5 speeds and aluminum frame allow travel over longer distances and up hilly terrain.  Like the Diva, the Fryslan has a fully enclosed chain ring, internal hub gears, fenders, rack, and an internal lighting system.

Batavus Fryslan

If your city commute is sprawled or hilly, the Batavus Breukelen may be up your alley.  The Breukelen has all the great commuter features of Batavus’ other bikes, but with 7 speeds, a lighter frame, and a sleeker style.

Batavus Breukelen

The award-winning design of the Batavus Utility Bike, or BUB, was inspired by a bent paperclip.  And like that little, practical, no-frills office necessity, the BUB’s form follows the function – a great, durable way to get around town.  The handlebar design allows for a front basket, and racks can be added.  Beautifully crafted, modern, and urban, the BUB is a city-slicker’s cycle.

Batavus Utility Bike

Just take a deep breath, sit back, relax, and…pedal?  Welcome to one of the most comfortable and ergonomic bikes in the business – the Journey by Day 6 Bicycles.  If you can imagine your favorite armchair sprouting wheels and pedals, you’ll picture a ride similar to this bike.

Day 6 Journey

Everything about the Journey is designed for pure comfort.  Instead of leaning forward on a tiny little seat, sink into a cushioned backrest.  Your hands will rest naturally on the fully adjustable handlebars while you sit upright.  The lightweight aluminum frame offers a smooth ride and allows for an easy step-through rather than a high leg swing.  The seven speed internal hub shifting is reliable, easy, and can operate while stationary.

If aches and pains are keeping you from cycling, it’s time to re-think your bike!  Come on in to experience the enjoyable ride of the Journey.

We’re all about pure pedal power, but let’s face it, hilly commutes, long distances, heavy loads, or showing up sweaty to work are major deterrents that keep many of us from biking.  A practical solution to these issues is the electric-assist bicycle.  Equipped with a motor and battery that plugs easily into the wall, these bikes are an earth-friendly alternative to a car.  And while you’re doing the Earth a favor on an e-bike, you’ll also find that you’re doing your body a favor – the constant pedaling keeps you in great shape!

At Cycle 9, we’re pleased to offer the electric-assist EcoBikes.  These bicycles combine style, dependability, comfort, and practicality into one top quality, earth friendly ride.  With three models – the folding Vatavio, lovely Elegance, and all-terrain Adventure – we can outfit you with the EcoBike that fits your daily needs.  Treat your planet and body well by revamping your commute with an EcoBike!

EcoBike - Vatavio

EcoBike - Elegance

EcoBike - Adventure

At Cycle 9, we love Surly’s no-nonsense approach to bicycles.  These bikes are not flashy or trendy, but are elegant and refined in their functionality.  Made from CroMoly steel, Surlys are built to last and ride beautifully.

Take the Surly Cross Check, for example.

Surly Cross Check

The versatile Cross Check handles all terrains with ease.  It’s a great commuter bike, offering a fabulously comfortable ride.  After work, go ahead and hit the trails.  You’ll love how this bike handles off-road as well.  Reviewers rave about this bike and for a good reason.  Come on in to see what all the buzz is about!

Another favorite at Cycle 9 is the Big Dummy.  Don’t let the name fool you, this bike isn’t a clunker.  It’s made for hauling a lot of stuff and it does its job gracefully.  Compatible with Xtracycle accessories, the Big Dummy can carry a week’s worth of groceries, an 8 ft ladder, passengers, or almost anything else you can think of – all while riding smoothly.  The options are endless and car-less, which makes this Big Dummy anything but dumb.

Surly Big Dummy

Ok – I quit this gig.  I’m packing up my crap and heading out West.  Peace out amigos!  While you’re watching the evening news, I’ll be riding into the sunset on Surly’s touring bike, the Long Haul Trucker.  Because the Trucker’s frame geometry is designed to carry a lot of stuff, I can make it out to there with everything I need.  The ultra durable components make me confident that my bike won’t let me down on the way.  Once I’ve reached my destination, I’ll still have a great bike to get around town.  Yup, the Long Haul Trucker is my long haul ride.  It can be yours too.  Stop by Cycle 9 to see why it’s one of our best sellers.

Surly Long Haul Trucker