Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no11

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no11
December, Happy Holidays! Stay Warm edition

As the year draws to a close, no matter what holiday you choose, we hope its merry, festive and bright and the best it can be.  So from all of us at Continental Bike Shop, Happy Holidays!

Holiday Hours!
Thanks for coming out!
Trainers
Gift Cards!
Repair Classes
Movie Night!
Electra Rebate gets Better!
Repairs!

Holiday Hours!
Hey, everyone needs some time off for the holidays.  We’ll be open December 24th, 9AM-1PM, for you last minute Christmas shoppers.  We’re closed, as always on December 25th.  For New Years Eve, we’ll be open 10AM-2PM.  Sometimes hockey really is more important.  We’re also Closed on January 1st.  Happy Holidays!

Thanks for Coming out!
For everyone who came out to the Slide Show/Farewell Party, thanks!  It was standing room only and a huge success.  We wish David all the best as he embarks on something new.

Trainers!
Why waste winter?  There are plenty of ways to make winter riding fun.  Either by dressing appropriately for the weather with our new Sugoi cold weather gear, or by keeping in shape on your trainer or rollers.  We’ve got the best trainers from Cycleops, the Fluid 2 and Magneto, with progressive resistance, and the Mag and Mag+ with adjustable resistance.

Repair Classes!
There’s always more you can learn about a bike.  Always.  But you have to start somewhere.  One of the best places to do that is at the Park Tool School.  Over four weeks, you lean how to tune up your bike, everything from changing a flat to adjusting your derailleurs and brakes.  Classes cost $125, and a $50 deposit is required when you sign up to hold your place.  The cost of the class also includes a copy of the Park Tool School, Big Blue Book of Bike Repair.  Dates are Wednesdays, January 13th, 20th, 27th, and February 3rd.  RSVP to Randy at bicycledoctor@continentalbikeshop.com.

Gift Cards!
It is that time of year!  Get your holiday shopping done right!  Know someone who likes to shop at Continental?  Want to convert your ridding buddies into Continental customers?  There’s no better gift than a gift card then.  They never expire, we’ve upgraded to real cards, no more paper gift certificates, and we don’t charge pesky fees like some credit card companies do if you don’t use your card.  So stop in, or give us a call, and make your holidays a cheery yellow and black.

If you buy a $50 gift card, we’ll give you $55, for $100, you get $115 on the card, and if you buy a $200 gift card, you actually get $240 on the card.  Its our version of economic stimulus, no hidden taxes, fees, or long term repercussions…  To qualify for extra gift card money, you need top purchase the gift cards before December 31st!  Remember, gift cards never expire!

Movie Night!
Are you interested in another movie night?  We’ve got a copy of Catch the Wind, the Mike Walden story, that we’d love to show if there’s enough interest.  Please call or email Randy at the shop, bicycledoctor@continentalbikeshop.com.

Electra Rebate!
Electra has decided to reward cool weather cruisers.  If you buy any Electra bike, with a retail price of $399 or more, between now and 12-31, you can get a $25 rebate right from Electra.  We’re not sure why they decided to do it, we’re just happy they are.  Every Electra you buy qualifies for the rebate, and if you buy two, then well, you get $50 back.  If your chosen Electra retails for less than $399, don’t worry, they will still send you a rebate.  This time for $10.

Like I said, it gets better.  Now through the end of the year, we’ll match whatever rebate Electra is giving on any Electra, in stock or special order.  And now we’ve got more Townies in stock to choose from.  They make great gifts!

Repairs!
I feel like a broken record.  Every year, all winter long we tell everyone to get their repairs in while its cold and you’re not thinking about your bike.  Because neither is anyone else.  And every spring, people want their bikes tuned up on the first nice day so that they can ride as soon as possible.  Now is the time to get your bike in for service!  NOW not April 1st!

And to make that a little more appealing, and easier… Tune up-Drive Train Cleans that usually run $150 are $100!  Now through February 13th!  Get your bike in now and get ready for the spring!  Airing your tires on the first warm dry day is far better than finding out something catastrophic needs to be fixed.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no10

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no10
November, Movies Movies! And more Parties!

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Spoke Wrench.  This is the tool, according to Randy, that can either make you a hero or a scape goat.  Or, a little knowledge can kill you.  Truing your wheels is important, very important.  Doing it right is even more important.  A little tension goes a long way.  Too much tension, and your previously mostly true wheel can resemble a taco.  And while a spoke wrench is the key to a true wheel, at least as important is knowing what to do with that spoke wrench.  So watch for our classes in January, so you can learn to use this tool.

Movie Night and PARTY!
Repairs for Spring!
Trainers are In!
Road Bikes, Single Speeds and Cyclocross, Oh My!
Sugoi clothing
Electra offering a rebate!
Gift Cards!

Movie Night and PARTY!
Monday, November 30 7PM David, Art Bull and Trevor Smith will host a slide presentation on their Great Canadian Adventure to Montreal and Quebec this past summer.  This is also David’s good-bye party, as he embarks on a new adventure to New York City.  As usual, with movie nights, Hors d’œuvre and drinks will be served.  RSVPs are a must, call the shop, or email Randy, bicycledoctor@continentalbikeshop.com

Repairs for Spring!
I know, its not spring yet.  Its not even technically winter yet, but its been pretty cold, and then again, pretty warm this month.  But, now is the perfect time to bring your bike in.  You can get it back quickly, stock up on some cold weather riding gear, and most importantly, beat the spring rush.  Or, instead of getting your bike back quickly, you can leave your bike for its own vacation, and we can upgrade your kit, do a drive train clean and tune up, and make your bike better than new for spring.

Trainers are in!
Cyclops trainers are here!  We’ve got the Mag, Mag+, Magneto, Fluid2, and rollers in the store.  Trainers are a great way to get a head start on spring, and keep riding.  They’re also a great way to use up a mostly used tire that’s still got some life in it, because the last thing you want to do is put your brand new Vittoria tire on a trainer.

Road Bikes, Single Speeds and Cyclocross, Oh My!
700c go fast bikes are on sale!  From 15% to 25% off, depending on the bike!  Sale applies to in stock bikes only!  Come in and test ride before the bikes are gone and the snow flies!

Sugoi Clothing
Need some cool weather gear?  We’ve got it from Sugoi, the newest addition to our clothing line up.  We’ve got arm and leg warmers, balaclavas, gloves, tights, and shoe covers for your cool weather riding pleasure.

Electra Rebate!
Electra has decided to reward cool weather cruisers.  If you buy any Electra bike, with a retail price of $399 or more, between now and 12-31, you can get a $25 rebate right from Electra.  We’re not sure why they decided to do it, we’re just happy they are.  Every Electra you buy qualifies for the rebate, and if you buy two, then well, you get $50 back.  If your chosen Electra retails for less than $399, don’t worry, they will still send you a rebate.  This time for $10.

Gift Cards!
It is that time of year!  Get your holiday shopping done right!  Know someone who likes to shop at Continental?  Want to convert your ridding buddies into Continental customers?  There’s no better gift than a gift card then.  They never expire, we’ve upgraded to real cards, no more paper gift certificates, and we don’t charge pesky fees like some credit card companies do if you don’t use your card.  So stop in, or give us a call, and make your holidays a cheery yellow and black.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no9

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no9
October, Trick or Treat, Mostly Treats, Edition

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Headset Wrench.  Threaded headsets require a couple of wrenches to get them good and tight, otherwise you’ve got play in your headset and that’s never good.  Headset wrenches are designed to tighten the locking cups of a threaded headset.  Always good for your bike.

Park Tool School Classes!
SoSS!
Women’s Clothing Sale!
Rewards Program
Movie Night?
Road Shoe Sale!
Cyclocross on Sale!
Spinning Class?

Park Tool School!
There’s always more you can learn about a bike.  Always.  But you have to start somewhere.  One of the best places to do that is at the Park Tool School.  Over four weeks, you lean how to tune up your bike, everything from changing a flat to adjusting your derailleurs and brakes.  Classes cost $125, and a $50 deposit is required when you sign up to hold your place.  The cost of the class also includes a copy of the Park Tool School, Big Blue Book of Bike Repair.  Dates are November 10, 17, 24, and December 1.  Call the shop 248/545-1225 or email bicycledoctor@sbcglobal.net to RSVP.

SoSS!
No, we’re not sending out bad Morse code.  And we’re not a ship- last we checked.  SoSS is Sale of Single Speeds.  And when I say single speeds, I mean road single speeds, not cruisers, and only bikes we have in the store.  Bianchi San Jose and Pista, Kona Paddy Wagons, and Giant Bowerys are on sale, 15% off.

Women’s Clothing and Shoes!
Women’s clothing is on sale, 40% off!  So if there’s something that’s looked interesting, but you weren’t  ready to get, now might be the time.  Also, all women’s cycling shoes are 20% off.  Diadora, Cannondale, and best of all, Sidi shoes!  Need new shoes?  Needs a second pair of shoes?    Need Spinning shoes?  Now’s the time to get them.

Ride Club Rewards
If you haven’t signed up for the Ride Club, why not?  Members get money back twice a year for shopping at Continental.  This year’s rewards went out at the end of September.  They’re good on anything in the store, but you have to hurry, they expire on November 1!

Movie Night?
Do you have pictures, a Power Point presentation, video, or some other way you’d like to share a bike trip with us?  We love hosting these nights, we just need riders who aren’t afraid to get up and talk about their trips.  Past presentations have included everything from Mountain biking in Mexico, to Vintage road rides in Italy.  If you’re interested, let us know!

Road Shoe Sale!
We’ve got a bunch of road shoes still, and we’d really like to help them find new homes.  So, we’re putting them on sale too.  All in stock road shoes are 20%off!

Cyclocross on Sale!
Just in time for some great cool-weather riding or your local cyclocross race, we’ve got all of our cyclocross bikes on sale!  2009 Kona Jake’s and one lone Cannondale looking for a new home are all 15% off!

Spinning Class?
Calling all spinning class aficionados!  We’d like to host Spinning Classes this winter at Continental, but, we have a small problem.  None of us have any experience running a spinning class.  If you’re interested, give Randy a call.  Classes would be after hours once or twice a week depending on interest level.

Hey! Just a note.  If its on sale, its only on things that are actually physically in the store.  Special orders only if available from the vendor and PAID IN FULL up front.

That’s all for this edition of the Spoken Wrench.  Here follows the legal mumbo Jumbo.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no8

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no8

August, What’s up with this weather? (again) Edition

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Spanner Wrench. Most of the time spanners are used to remove bottom bracket parts, especially the cups. Red Park spanner wrenches are used to take apart Cannondale Headshoks, to rebuild, service, or otherwise make your Headshok do its thing a little better. Green Park spanner wrenches can also be used to service some Mavic hubs. Spanners have a variety of important and interesting uses outside of bottom cups.

Closed Monday!

Seeing as Monday is a national holiday, and we’re closed for those, (bank holidays don’t count) we will be closed on monday, enjoying weather that we should have been having most of the summer, like warm and sunny. We’ll see you on Tuesday bright and early at 10AM.

Get Ready for Fall!

Fall in Michigan provides some of the best and most beautiful riding of the whole season. Gone are most of the threats of 90 degree heat and 90% humidity, and here are the clear days with low humidity and beautiful fall colour changes. If its been a while since you rode your bike, or maybe you rode it more than you expected this summer, bring it in and we’ll take care of what ever might ail your bike.

2010 You Say?

Every year about this time, we in the shop begin looking at, drooling over, and wishing for all the cool new stuff we’re seeing. It also means that what we have, what we can get, and what’s no longer available are constantly in flux. So here are a few of the things we think are especially cool.

Lefty’s for All!

Cannondale has long been doing things its own way. Long being, you know, since they first made an aluminum frame back before aluminum was cool (but after Klein). They brought us zero pivot, four-inch-travel Scalpels, BB30, and of course, the best reason they’re cool, Head Shoks. So, you own a great frame, but the new 3D forged Lefty looks great, its light, and has lots of travel, what’s a mountain biker to do?

Kona Magic Link

In the middle of 2008 Kona developed a new suspension design, called the Magic Link. They used it first on the Coil Air, a 7″ travel full suspension bike, and it did everything they wanted it to. There were some issues, it was heavy, and the back end had some tracking issues. But otherwise, the Magic Link allowed the Coil Air to morph between a 6.4″ and 7″ trail bike. For 2010 the Newly redesigned Magic Link moves behind the crank, (supports Truvativ’s Hammershmidt) looks much less like a squid is attacking your frame, and now allows for suspenssion that morphs from 5″ to 7.7″. It also shaves 2.6 pounds off the the bike. For more on what’s new at Kona, check out www.konaworld.com and for more on the Magic Link http://bikemag.com/gallery/kona-2010-magic-link-bikes/.

Sidi Shoe Sale

There is nothing better than a pair of bike shoes that fit well, are light weight, and on sale. If Sidi shoes have always been a little out of budget, or your old shoes are on their last legs, maybe now’s the time to get new ones? We’ve got limited sizes in some models, and less limited in others, and they won’t last too particularly long at 20% off. The sale applies to all in stock shoes, no special orders at sale prices.

Road Bike Sale!

Fall is the best time to ride in Michigan, still plenty of light and warm days, without the sweltering 90s that August served up. So, if a road bike is in your future, we’ve got an idea for you. We’re offering 15% off all in stock road bikes, and 10% off all special orders. (You’ve got to pre-pay your special order in full, up front, but you get 10% off.)

Light ‘N Motion Sale!

Lights are essential for riding anywhere in Michigan after dark. Not only is it a good idea, its state law.  In an effort to make law-abiding riding easier, and more fun, we’ve got all Light ‘N Motion lights on sale, 20% off.  So whether you’re looking for a better commuting light and want to see where you’re going, or you need a light for that epic, 24 hour race you’ve always wanted to do, we’ve got the lights for you.  (Valid on in stock lights only.  No Special Orders.)

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no7

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no7

June, almost July: Why, yes, Virginia, there really is a Summer, edition.

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Y-wrench. One of the most useful, unless you’re Jason, and you hate them, Allen wrenches around, Y-wrenches are just that, Y-shaped, 3-way wrenches that have either a 4, 5 and 6mm Allen head, or a 2, 2.5, and 3mm Allen heads. Because of the shape, Y-wrenches offer great leverage, but they can sometimes be hard to maneuver under a seat or while trying to install a bottle cage.

But for a seat post clamp, they work great.

Charity Ride Ready

Speaking of Repairs…

Send a ‘Thank You’ to Rep. Switalski

Web Specials

Carbon Crank Sale

Getting Ready for the 4^th:

1. Car Racks needed?

2. Closed Saturday July 4^th.

Are you Charity Ride Ready?

It’s summer in Metro Detroit, any way you slice it. With some really hot days behind us, and some really hot days that are sure to follow, it can only mean two things:

1. That we will once again prove all meteorologists and weathermen wrong and nothing they predict weather wise will occur.

or

2. It must be Charity Ride Season.

Well, unless Hell freezes over this summer, I’m going to have to say both 1 and 2 are probably correct, but this isn’t about weather. This is about the impending WAM, MS-150 (or whatever they’ve named it), DALMAC, and whatever else you might be riding this summer. While Randy and the Bike Doctor Van will be making appearances on a lot of rides, he can’t be everywhere at once. Its much better to be ready to roll well before your ride than broken down on the side of the road.

Once July rolls in, Charity Ride repairs tend to take over, so please allow at least a week between when you bring us your bike and when you need to leave. Because, no, you may not bring your bike in for an overhaul, tune-up or drive train clean and have it back tomorrow.

Speaking of Repairs….

It’s summer, and we think you should be riding, especially this week, because it’s supposed to be beautiful Michigan weather, when its not raining. But, if you’ve brought your bike in for repair, and we still have it, that might be a little hard. So, if we’ve got your bike, please, pretty please, come pick it up.

Send a ‘Thank You’ to Rep. Switalski

In Mid-June, the Michigan House of Representatives passed transportation legislation that included Complete Streets language and Representative Switalski was instrumental in introducing that language. The LMB would like to make sure that Rep. Switalski feels the cycling love, so if you’re inclined, stop by the form the LMB created and fill it out. It only takes a few minutes, and can mean a lot for the future of the legislation. (make sure to put your whole name in the ‘Name’ field as there isn’t a separate spot for first and last name.) http://citizenspeak.org/node/1666

Web Specials

If you’ve visited our website lately, you may have noticed new items on the homepage, especially the track wheels and new 2008 Cannondale closeout bikes, (for the vertically challenged, and the very un-vertically challenged.) Keep an eye out there for one-ofs, last ones, and other specials that may pop up…

Specials You Say?

Need a new crank on your road bike? Something light, stiff and stealthy looking? An Easton EC-90 crank set might just do the trick. Light, stiff, carbon with aluminum chainrings and X-type bottom bracket, the EC-90 weighs in at about 690 grams, (give or take one bearing race that was left accidentally in the box and once plastic wrapper and grease that was left on). Originally priced at $800 for the bottom bracket and the crank set, we’ll let it got for $625 (plus tax, obviously.)

Getting Ready for the 4^th

Car Racks Anyone?

July 4^th is traditionally vacation time, and lots of times you might want to take your bikes with you. Which, if the vehicle you’re planning on using is packed with people and luggage, bikes can be difficult to cart around. Same goes for small vehicles into which the bike wont fit on a good day.

We have Saris Car racks in stock, both the hitch and trunk mounted varieties in stock for your rack needs. To see if a Saris trunk rack will fit your car visit them on the web: http://www.saris.com/sarisfitsearch.aspx?ddlMake=&Submit=Find+Rack

By the way, car racks are not available for rent, nor are they returnable after a holiday weekend. Sorry. It’s been tried, and makes us rather unhappy. And thanks for your understanding.

Saturday July 4^th Continental Bike Shop will be closed for independence day. And since we’re always closed on Sundays, We will also be closed on the 5^th. See you Monday morning.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no6

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no6

May, National Bike Month!

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Adjustable Wrench. They are pretty much what they say they are, adjustable open end wrenches, that are great for hitch rack installations, seat clamp bolts, and much more.

Ride Club

National Bike Month

-Ride to Work Week

-Gentleman and Ladies Commuter Challenge

-Best and Worst Commute Stories Contest

Repairs, and the (Bike) Doctor is in, or is he out?.

Steel its Real

Burley Rain gear!

New and New and New and New and on and on and on………..

• Xtreme Sports ID

• Jimi Wallets

• Bike Brakes

• Giant Defy Alliance

• Bellwether Hightech High-vis Vests

• EuroStyle Chamois Butt’r

• Cateye Computers

Ride Club

Many, if not all of you, will have seen the flyer we sent out, (free tube and flat repair and 20% off one accessory coupons were there). At the top of the flyer, it mentions the new Ride Club. So I thought perhaps, we should explain.

Ride Club will, as of 1 May, replace the club discounts lots of people are used to. Wait, stop, read. Then ask questions. Instead of getting 10% off parts and accessories, that aren’t on sale, and whatnot, you will receive 5% back for all your purchases (except Labor, we don’t discount the guys in the back). Twice a year, in March, and September, you’ll receive a gift card telling you how much you’ve earned in Ride Club Rewards.

Everyone can participate, not just club members. It works pretty much the same way as the rewards programs you might find at REI, except, ours is free.

National Bike Month

First things first. Every month should be bike month. But then other forms things might miss out on their opportunity for celebration every year. This year we’re doing things a little differently.

First, we’re looking for your stories about commuting, we’ll feature them on our homepage, in the Spoken Wrench during May, and around the shop. We’d like stories about the best and worst commutes you’ve experienced.

Prizes for the best ‘best commute’ and best ‘worst commute’ stories. Fill out the for here, or email them to liz@continentalbikeshop.com.

Rules: Individuals may submit as many entries as they would like, however they may only win one prize. Submissions are due by 11 May 2009 at 10AM (EST). All submissions become property of Continental Bike Shop and may be used in the Spoken Wrench, www.continentalbikeshop.com, and around the store. Credit will be given to the writer.

We’ll also be running a Gentlemen and Ladies Contest for who commutes the most in May. Honour system here everyone. Please play fair.

Rules: Beginning May 1 2009 and ending May 31 2009, we will be running a Gentlemen and Ladies Commuter Challenge Contest. There will be prizes for those who commuted the most total miles and the most days out of the month. Please be honest. We wont know if you’re not, but someone will, and they might tell us. Entries due by Monday June 15 at 7PM.

You can find entry forms in the store.

And for those of you who don’t commute, but would like to, what would have to change? Changes to surface streets (which we’re working on in the 2009 Complete the Streets Act), showers at work, incentives from your employer or the Feds? We’ll pass your suggestions onto the people who need them most and see if we can’t make a bigger difference in how local road commissions view cyclists.

If you’d like to participate in any of these events and need more information, let us know at 248 545 1225 or liz@continentalbikeshop.com

Repairs, and the (Bike) Doctor is in, or is he out?.

Repairs have caught up, for now. A couple real spring sunny days, and that is sure to change. So, now, while its cold and rainy is the time to bring in your bike.

As always the Bike Doctor is out and about doing house calls, fixing bikes from the back of the Bike Doctor Van. House calls have a $25 house call fee, and then labor is billed at $75 an hour, in ¼ hour increments. So if you have more than one bike to be worked on, it saves you the trip and usually a little $$ as well.

Steel its Real

Bianchi learned their lesson last year when they decided to stop making steel road bikes. Unfortunately, they stopped making steel mountain bikes years ago. But when they discontinued production of steel road frames, well, there was nearly a mutiny. Our rep at the time was new, and probably still doesn’t like us.

Well, Bianchi listened to their dealers, and this year, brought the return of steel. As Bianchi says:

Its too easy to give up on steel road bikes – for all the wrong reasons. When its done right STEEL CAN RIVAL THE PERFORMANCE OF OTHER FRAME MATERIALS used in road bikes, particularly in the more accessible price ranges. Bianchi’s Road Steel series isn’t flashy – it doesn’t have to be because these bikes take the foundation of steel and dial up a true blend of stability comfort durability and low weight. The proof is in all the satisfying rides, and all the satisfied riders these bikes have supported over the years.

We couldn’t agree more. We’ve got Vigorellis and Imolas in stock for your riding pleasure. And they are a pleasure to ride, especially over the things we call roads around here.

Burley Rain gear!

We’ve still got limited sizes of Burley Rain gear, and enough of it to survive some kind of epic Ark-style flood. So come get yours before the limited becomes 3 sizes.

New and New and New and New and on and on and on………..

• Xtreme Sports ID

Ever think that there should be an easier way to carry all of your emergency contact information? Or an unobtrusive way to alert emergency personnel of Medic-Alert information? Xtreme Sports Ids are silicone wristbands that feature an 800#, 8-digit ID number, and Medic-Alert symbol. First responders know to look for medical alert information, and can call the number and find out everything they might need to know. They’re available in 6 colours and up to 4 sizes, for a reasonable $8.

• Jimi Wallets

Small, sleek, and easily attacked to a lanyard for security, Jimi Wallets are plastic and can hold up to 5 cards and three folded bills. Small enough to fit in a jersey pocket, it still holds enough to be useful.

• Bike Brakes

Don’t want a kickstand, but don’t want your bike falling over or rolling away? Put a Bike Brake around the left grip near the front brake and extend it around the brake lever, engaging the front brake. This keeps the front wheel from spinning, stabilizing the bicycle when placed upright against an object. Stored on the grip while riding, Bike Brake becomes an unobtrusive part of the grip. Unlike a rubber band, Bike Brake is made of a durable, long lasting material that will withstand the harsh, outside environment.

• Giant Defy Alliance

With an Aluminum/Carbon frame (the ‘black’ parts, are the ones that are carbon composite with a clear coat.) mostly Shimano 105 parts, traditionally laced Mavic wheels, and what giant calls an endurance riding position, (read more comfortable than your average butt up nose down racer position) the Defy Alliance is lightweight and a great ride.

• Bellwether Hightech High-vis Vests

Light and ergonomic, this is an essential item when the weather may take a turn. Extremely compact, this jacket can be compressed down to easily fit into a jersey pocket. And its That nice high-vis yellow that’s bordering on green. We also have matching Yellow Racer pant straps.

• EuroStyle Chamois Butt’r

Chamois Butt’r Eurostyle is formulated to produce a cooling and soothing effect for cyclists who prefer a traditional European-style chamois creme. It contains menthol and which hazel, and is not for the faint of hear. It even comes in the 8oz tub you see from manufacturers like Assos…

• Cateye Computers

  • Velo 5: The Velo 5 is CatEye’s entry-level computer. It features a new, larger screen and a large button for easy operation. Like all CatEye’s computers, it is ultrasonically welded and highly water resistant. The universal bracket and sensor mounts allow the Velo 5 to mount nearly any handle bar and fork. The five functions are Current speed, Maximum speed, Odometer, Trip distance, and Clock

  • Velo 8: The new Velo 8 computer is CatEye’s entry-level 8 functions computer. The bracket requires no tools and is simple to use. Like the Velo 5, It features a new, larger screen and a large button for easy operation. With all the same features and functions as the Velo 5 plus Average Speed, Trip distance, Elapsed Time, and (estimated) Calorie Consumption.

  • Vectra: The Vectra is CatEye’s entry level wireless computer. With 5 functions and one large button, it is extremely user-friendly and comes standard with one mount for both stem and handlebar set-up. The five functions are :Current Speed, Maximum Speed, Trip Distance, Odometer, and Clock. The Vectra also has a universal bracket and sensor mount making it easy to install no matter what size and style handlebars you have.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no5

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no5

April getting ready for May edition

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Open End Wrench.  Pretty much what it sounds like, open ended to slide easily on and off of bolts.  Most of ours are metric and hang by the Box End Wrench side on the mechanic’s benches.

Its not that we don’t love April, but I could do with a little less rain and no more snow, and way more sunshine, but there’s tons going on in May that we want to tell everyone.

Ride Club
Many, if not all of you, will have seen the flyer we sent out last week, (free tube and flat repair and 20% off one accessory coupons were there).  At the top of the flyer, it mentions the new Ride Club.  So I thought perhaps, we should explain.

Ride Club will, as of 1 May, replace the club discounts lots of people are used to.  Wait, stop, read.  Then ask questions.  Instead of getting 10% off parts and accessories, that aren’t on sale, and whatnot, you will receive 5% back for all your purchases (except Labor, we don’t discount the guys in the back).  Twice a year, in March, and September, you’ll receive a gift card telling you how much you’ve earned in Ride Club Rewards.

Everyone can participate, not just club members.  It works pretty much the same way as the rewards programs you might find at REI, except, ours is free.

National Bike Month
First things first.  Every month should be bike month.  But then other forms things might miss out on their opportunity for celebration every year.  This year we’re doing things a little differently.

First, we’re looking for your stories about commuting, we’ll feature them on our homepage, in the  Spoken Wrench during May, and around the shop.  We’d like stories about the best and worst commutes you’ve experienced.

Prizes for the best ‘best commute’ and best ‘worst commute’ stories.  Fill out the for here, or email them to liz@continentalbikeshop.com.

Rules:  Individuals may submit as many entries as they would like, however they may only win one prize.  Submissions are due by 11 May 2009 at 10AM (EST).  All submissions become property of Continental Bike Shop and may be used in the Spoken Wrench, www.continentalbikeshop.com, and around the store.  Credit will be given to the writer.

We’ll also be running a Gentlemen and Ladies Contest for who commutes the most in May.  Honour system here everyone.  Please play fair.

Rules: Beginning May 1 2009 and ending May 31 2009, we will be running a Gentlemen and Ladies Commuter Challenge Contest.  There will be prizes for those who commuted the most total miles and the most days out of the month.  Please be honest.  We wont know if you’re not, but someone will, and they might tell us.  Entries due by Monday June 15 at 7PM.

You can find entry forms in the store or here.

And for those of you who don’t commute, but would like to, what would have to change?  Changes to surface streets (which we’re working on in the 2009 Complete the Streets Act), showers at work, incentives from your employer or the Feds?  We’ll pass your suggestions onto the people who need them most and see if we can’t make a bigger difference in how local road commissions view cyclists.

If you’d like to participate in any of these events and need more information, let us know at 248 545 1225 or liz@continentalbikeshop.com

Repairs, and the (Bike) Doctor is in, or is he out?
Repairs have caught up, for now.  A couple real spring sunny days, and that is sure to change.  So, now, while its cold and rainy is the time to bring in your bike.

As always the Bike Doctor is out and about doing house calls, fixing bikes from the back of the Bike Doctor Van.  House calls have a $25 house call fee, and then labor is billed at $75 an hour, in ¼ hour increments.  So if you have more than one bike to be worked on, it saves you the trip and usually a little $$ as well.

Steel its Real
Bianchi learned their lesson last year when they decided to stop making steel road bikes.  Unfortunately, they stopped making steel mountain bikes years ago.  But when they discontinued production of steel road frames, well, there was nearly a mutiny.  Our rep at the time was new, and probably still doesn’t like us.

Well, Bianchi listened to their dealers, and this year, brought the return of steel.  As Bianchi says:

Its too easy to give up on steel road bikes – for all the wrong reasons.  When its done right STEEL CAN RIVAL THE PERFORMANCE OF OTHER FRAME MATERIALS used in road bikes, particularly in the more accessible price ranges.  Bianchi’s Road Steel series isn’t flashy – it doesn’t have to be because these bikes take the foundation of steel and dial up a true blend of stability comfort durability and low weight.  The proof is in all the satisfying rides, and all the satisfied riders these bikes have supported over the years.

We couldn’t agree more.  We’ve got Vigorellis and Imolas in stock for your riding pleasure.  And they are a pleasure to ride, especially over the things we call roads around here.

‘Wrench only!
To reward our loyal ‘Wrench readers, we’re giving you a coupon for discounts on some sunglasses.  (Maybe if we all wear our sunglasses, it will be sunny?  Maybe?  Please?)  So, Serfas sunglasses are 25% off.  And just in case you plan on spending some more time on the trail than the sun allows for, or your commutes occur at hours of the morning where I fully admit I’m still asleep. We have Light ‘n Motion lights 20% off.  You MUST must must must bring in the coupon  print it off, and bring your Spoken Wrench, and you must show it to us, or uhm, no discount for you.

Burley Rain gear!
We’ve still got limited sizes of Burley Rain gear, and enough of it to survive some kind of epic Ark-style flood.  So come get yours before the limited becomes 3 sizes.

New and New and New and New and on and on and on………..

• Xtreme Sports ID: Ever think that there should be an easier way to carry all of your emergency contact information?  Or an unobtrusive way to alert emergency personnel of Medic-Alert information?  Xtreme Sports Ids are silicone wristbands that feature an 800#, 8-digit ID number, and Medic-Alert symbol.  First responders know to look for medical alert information, and can call the number and find out everything they might need to know.  They’re available in 6 colours and up to 4 sizes, for a reasonable $8.

• Jimi Wallets: Small, sleek, and easily attacked to a lanyard for security, Jimi Wallets are plastic and can hold up to 5 cards and three folded bills.  Small enough to fit in a jersey pocket, it still holds enough to be useful.

• Bike Brakes:Don’t want a kickstand, but don’t want your bike falling over or rolling away?  Put a  Bike Brake around the left grip near the front brake and extend it around the brake lever, engaging the front brake.  This keeps the front wheel from spinning, stabilizing the bicycle when placed upright against an object.  Stored on the grip while riding, Bike Brake becomes an unobtrusive part of the grip.  Unlike a rubber band, Bike Brake is made of a durable, long lasting material that will withstand the harsh, outside environment.

• Giant Defy Alliance: With an Aluminum/Carbon frame (the ‘black’ parts, are the ones that are carbon composite with a clear coat.) mostly Shimano 105 parts, traditionally laced Mavic wheels, and what giant calls an endurance riding position, (read more comfortable than your average butt up nose down racer position) the Defy Alliance is lightweight and a great ride.

• Bellwether Hightech High-vis Vests:Light and ergonomic, this is an essential item when the weather may take a turn. Extremely compact, this jacket can be compressed down to easily fit into a jersey pocket.  And its That nice high-vis yellow that’s bordering on green.  We also have matching Yellow Racer pant straps.

• EuroStyle Chamois Butt’r: Chamois Butt’r Eurostyle is formulated to produce a cooling and soothing effect for cyclists who prefer a traditional European-style chamois creme.  It contains menthol and which hazel, and is not for the faint of hear.  It even comes in the 8oz tub you see from manufacturers like Assos…

• Cateye Computers
• Velo 5: The Velo 5 is CatEye’s entry-level computer. It features a new, larger screen and a large button for easy operation. Like all CatEye’s computers, it is ultrasonically welded and highly water resistant. The universal bracket and sensor mounts allow the Velo 5 to mount nearly any handle bar and fork.  The five functions are Current speed, Maximum speed, Odometer, Trip distance, and Clock
• Velo 8: The new Velo 8 computer is CatEye’s entry-level 8 functions computer. The bracket requires no tools and is simple to use. Like the Velo 5, It features a new, larger screen and a large button for easy operation.   With all the same features and functions as the Velo 5 plus Average Speed, Trip distance, Elapsed Time, and (estimated) Calorie Consumption.
• Vectra: The Vectra is CatEye’s entry level wireless computer. With 5 unctions and one large button, it is extremely user-friendly and comes standard with one mount for both stem and handlebar set-up.  The five functions are :Current Speed, Maximum Speed, Trip Distance, Odometer, and Clock.  The Vectra also has a universal bracket and sensor mount making it easy to install no matter what size and style handlebars you have.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no4

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no4
April Fools! Edition.

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the pranksters that call Continental Bike Shop home.

In some years past, we’ve told you exactly what the sale is going to be and where and when and for how long. And we’ve had extended hours…

Well, not this year. April 1st is a Wednesday, and we’ll be open 10AM-6PM.

Stuff will be on sale, because that’s how the April Fools Day Sale works. But we’ll let you know what and how much stuff will be on sale on Wednesday morning.

The Never-going-to-be-fine Fine Print: We reserve the right to designate what will or wont be on sale. ALL APRIL FOOLS SALES ARE FINAL. Please test ride the bikes, try the clothes on, and generally verify that this is what you want, before you take it home. And once again, ALL APRIL FOOLS DAY SALES ARE FINAL.

Any questions? Email us, or drop us a line, liz@continentalbikeshop.com or 248 545 1225.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no3

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no3

March, Spring Might really be here, Edition.

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Spoke Wrench (haha, Probably should have started with the Spoke Wrench…). Sometimes we all need a little help with a wobbly wheel, and the best way to get it, is with a spoke wrench, in one of about 4 standard sizes if you’ve got pretty standard laced 3- or 4-cross wheels. If you’re wheels are sporting a bladed spoke, something even more exotic, or you’re running Mavic wheels, you might need a less standard spoke wrench. No matter what, if you\’d like to take a spoke wrench home with you, bring your wheel in, so we can see what size you need.

• Michigan Bike Summit!
• News and Notes
• Burley Rain Gear’s Here!
• Procrastination, or the Doctor is in.
• Spring and Mountain Bike Trails

Michigan Bike Summit

The LMB(link) is hosting their annual Bike Summit in Lansing. Its a great way to get involved and make Michigan a bike friendly place. Its on Saturday March 28^th, so we won’t be there, even though we’d kinda like to be. Here’s what Rich Moller, Executive Director of the LMB, has to say:

From: Rich Moeller

Subject: LMB Board: Michigan Bicycle Summit

Reply-To: Board@lmb.org

Time is running out to register for the 2009 Michigan Bicycle Summit. It will be on Saturday, March 28, 2009 in Lansing. Registration information is now online at: http://www.lmb.org/2009BikeSummit.pdf. This Summit is designed for you, the bicyclist. There is new momentum nationwide for bicycling with the new administration and the recognition that bicyclists are a legitimate road user. After the National Bicycle Summit last week, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, posted the following on his blog: “I am committed to investing in programs that encourage bikes to coexist with other modes and to safely share our roads and bridges.” I hope you will plan to come and share this momentum with other bicyclists from across Michigan.

Our goal for this year is 100. I/we need your help. Please distribute the attached notice to any list serve or Google group you may be on.

Encourage your friends and folks from your club to attend.

Thank you

Rich Moeller

LMB

National Bike Summit

“They have no beer in Washington.”

But they do have legislatures, Congress, the Senate, and lots of staff. And no place to park the Bike Doctor van. (which Randy found out the hard way.)

Despite having a hard time parking the van, Randy made the most of the Bike Summit, meeting with Michigan representatives to talk about how to get more federal funding for fixing our existing roads, adding bike lanes, supporting mountain biking, and just about anything else bike and legislation related.

For more advocacy related stuff, you’ll find a whole new section of the website dedicated to advocacy and ways you can get involved. (It’s HERE, and a work in progress.)

Just in time for Spring

We’ve got limited, and I stress the LIMITED part of this, Burley Rain Gear, at 30% off! Not a lot, and in some pretty limited sizes, but we’ve got it. Come and get some new rain gear while the getting’s good.

Procrastination, or The Doctor is In.

Well, I think it’s safe to say we’ve spent every winter for at least the past three years trying to convince people to bring their bikes in while the weather is cold and no one’s thinking about riding. But, because no one’s thinking about riding, they never do. Right now, repairs are a week out. So if you bring it in today, Thursday 19 March, we’ll get it back to you next Thursday, 26 March. And it won’t be long until it will be a little longer than a week for repairs….

So, perhaps, this is our way of saying, you have procrastinated too long if you want to your bike back tomorrow, or by this weekend.

Never fear, we’ve got more than one way to do repairs. If you don’t want to be without your bike for a week, perhaps, you should call Randy, the Bicycle Doctor, and have him come out and take a look at your bike. For more information give him a call or email him, bicycledoctor@sbcglobal.net.

Mountain Bikes and Spring Thaw

While we think its spring, the mountain bike trails around aren’t quite thawed. The trails are mostly thawed, but until they’re totally thawed and the ground and rain water have no place to go and the trails are especially susceptible to erosion. Here’s what the MMBA has to say:

Don’t give yourself or other mountain bikers a bad name by riding on trails during the spring thaw.

The recent warm weather may have melted the snow, but the sub-surface layers of soil are still partially frozen. Trails are critically sensitive to erosion damage at this time.

Please ride on pavement or gravel roads for a few more weeks, until the trails have properly thawed and dried out. A good rule of thumb is that when the earthworms begin to emerge, the ground is suitably thawed for trail activities (usually by mid-April).

Help us keep trails open to mountain biking by riding in an environmentally sound manner.

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no2

Continental Bike Shop presents the Spoken Wrench vol5 no2

February, Really, Enough with the Winter, Edition. Please.

This edition of the Spoken Wrench is brought to you by the Torx Wrench. Not to be confused with the torque wrench, the Torx is a six sided driver designed to eliminate the rounded edges that wear out normal allen wrenches. The most common place to find a torx is on disc brakes, where you really want to make sure they’re not going anywhere. Usually, they drivers are found on larger multi tools, but sometimes that means giving up the pocket knife and bottle opener that get way more usage.

We’re Sick of Winter and Snow and Cold Sale!

We’re utterly done with winter. It could be done tomorrow, and that still wouldn’t be soon enough. But it won’t be, and we know that. (And winter and cold and freezing is good for the water levels in the Great Lakes, so its not all bad.) So we’re having a sale, on February 28th. A Gambler’s Sale. Do you like to gamble? Such a funny question coming from the girl who hates going to Vegas because it’s all casino’s and gambling, but this is so much more fun.

So here’s the details, its a progressive sale.

• From 10am to 12Noon, parts and accessories will be 15% off, and 08 and older bikes will be 10% off!
• From 12Noon to 2PM, parts and accessories will be 30% off, and 08 and older bikes will be 15% off.
• From 2PM to 4Pm, pats and accessories will be 40% off, and 08 and older bikes will be 20% off.
• From 4Pm to 5Pm, parts and accessories will be 50% off, and 08 and older bikes will be ?!?!% off! We’ll surprise you!

So here’s where the gamble comes in, you’ll save more later on, but we can’t say what will still be around come 4PM.

The NOT so Fine Print: ALL SALES ARE FINAL. All of em. Its on sale, and we’d really like you to keep it. 08 and older bikes are on sale. 09 are not. Parts and accessories means almost everything that’s not a bike. Labour’s not a part of that. Supplies are limited to what we have in the store, on hand, in stock. Special order stuff is not on sale. Any other questions? Call the shop and ask for Randy.

Repairs, Repairs, Repairs, They’re Everywhere.

We have returned to that time of year, when everyone is itching for whatever warmth we can find, and want to ride the minute it thaws and the snow’s gone, and the temperature is above freezing for more than a half an hour. So, bring your repair in now, while there might still be some snow on the ground, and before the MAD FIX MY BIKE NOW! rush starts. Please? Thanks.