Advocacy
- REI partners with NICA and IMBA for the Teen Trail Corps Initiative – REI, the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, and IMBA set up a new program to inspire young riders to become effective trail advocates with the new #TeenTrailCorps initiative. Teaching young mountain bikers to show respect, empathy, and compassion to fellow trail users and nature, the program aims to develop the next generation of trail leaders. TeenTrailCorps.org
More Advocacy (which is always good)
- IMBA Extends Regional Coverage to all 50 States – Getting bigger and better representation all the time IMBA has grown and realigned their regional presence to make sure that every US IMBA member has the support of a regional director. Now from 2016, regional coverage has extended to Alaska, the Dakotas, Montana, Nevada, New England, and Utah with the creation and reshuffling of new and realigned regional coverage. IMBA.com
- And IMBA needs a new Trail Care Crew – IMBA is also looking for a new duo to travel the states for two years working directly with IMBA chapters, bike and trail groups, and land managers to develop more riding and relationships. The 20 years old TCC program has been spreading the word of the bike about good trail building technique, positive relationships with land manager, and other trail access issues. If that sounds up your alley, hit them up til Feb 15. IMBA.com
- Support a Pro with Greenlite – Greenlite Heavy Industries knows first hand that most cycling pro aren’t raking in the big bucks, but struggling to keep it together (the founder is a amateur road racer.) So they created a program where all proceeds from one of their products – the made in Seattle Waxed Cotton Tool Roll – go to a struggling pro each year to support living the dream. This season’s pro is Seattle-based Jessica Cutler. Buy a bag, support a pro. Greenlite.co
Gifting Odds & Ends
- Timbiketu is looking to make a name as a one-stop shop for bike-themed gifts – It is already a wide range of items from upcycled inner tube wallets to bike-decorated jewelry and neck ties, with plans to continue to grow their offerings (even more Valentine’s themed gifts on the way for your special someone.) We especially like a few of the unique cycling prints on offer, which are always a good way to spruce up a home bike shop or just to proclaim your love of the bike one more degree through home decor. Timbiketu.com
Deals & Gear
- Save 20% on toptube decals from Pegatin – We reviewed some rider name labels for your bike (or wheels) last October and were pretty happy with how they turned out and stood up to foul cyclocross abuse. The folks at Pegatin said they got some good feedback from our readers as well, and offered you all a 20% discount, good through the end of February. Get any sticker packs on their site and just enter coupon code “BR20” at checkout to save, just before hitting the blue pay button. Pegatin.com
- QBP will be getting your gear to the shop faster out west – Just a bit of welcome news for the western US. Quality Bicycle Products, your friendly mega gear distributor just opened a new distribution center in Reno. So most West Coast cyclists will start to benefit from overnight availability at their local bike shop of most components and gear they order. More bikes back on the road and trail faster, YEAH!
Events
- 906 Polar Roll Fat Bike Race & Northern Fat Bike Summit – Michigan’s largest Fat Bike race is coming up soon, and coincides with the Northern Fat Bike Summit this Feb 19-21 in Marquette and Ishpeming, MI. The Summit will offer educational classes and group rides on Friday, followed by a Fat Bike outdoor expo Saturday, and clinics and group rides on Sunday. The 906 race offers 15 or 35 miles of fast, point-to-point groomed singletrack, with a Bacon and Hugs Aid Station and other surprises. More info at: NorthernFatBikeSummit.com and 906AdventureTeam.com
