Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Safety check before each ride

Earlier this spring, I attended a Liv repair clinic at Paramount. At the clinic, the Liv representative gave us tips on caring for our bikes; shared pointers for fixing a flat; and demonstrated removing and reinstalling a wheel.

As we gear up for the riding season, I'm sharing that information here. Remember, each one of us should make sure we have all of the tools we need to handle any issue we have when on the trails. Numbers one and two on my list are making sure I have the right spare inner tube and the correct master link for repairing a broken chain. Please share your must-haves!

I hope this information is helpful! See you on the trails!

posted by rose

Saturday, April 14, 2018

Meet and Greet!

This Wednesday, April 18 is our annual Meet & Greet. New members may wonder what this event is all about and whether they should attend. YES, you should definitely attend if you are a new member or curious about this group, and not just because there are snacks and prizes!

The Meet & Greet lets you meet other female mountain bikers and the group organizers. We talk about the mission of the group, philanthropy. and community involvement.

On the agenda are:
- the new MeetUp site
- the ride schedule
- ride leading
- rider safety (including helmet fit)
- out-of-town trips
- Diva gear

The event begins at 7:15 pm.
Thanks to our host, Paramount Cycles, for once again letting us take over the shop for our gathering.

Paramount Cycles is located at 1320 Huffman Park Drive (same building as Southside Bistro, in South Anchorage)

See you there!

Sunday, April 1, 2018

April already? Get ready for summer!

The winter riding season is winding down, so it's time to start thinking about the summer riding season ahead. Here's a short checklist to get you ready for riding.

First, if you did not get your mountain bike tuned up at the end of the season last year, now is a good time to take it to your favorite shop for a tune. If the bike needs more extensive work like a fork overhaul or brake upgrade, the earlier you get it into the shop the earlier it will be ready for the dirt trails. Don't put off maintenance until the night before the first ride of the season or you may be sitting out a ride if parts must be ordered!

Next, take stock of your repair kit. Be sure you have the correct replacement inner-tube in your kit and that it does not have any holes (patch if needed). Be sure that you have all of the tools you need: multi-tool, chain tool, master link for the chain, tire levers, patches, a pump you know how to work, and all of the extras you like to carry.

Third, inspect your hydration pack. Was it leaking at the end of the season? You may need a new reservoir (aka bladder). Bring the old one with you when you go shopping so you get the correct size. You may need to replace all the pieces of the water system, right down to the bite valve, but better to know well ahead of the first ride. If you use water bottles, check the lids to make sure they don't leak when you tip them back for a drink. Now is a good time to replace old bottles.

Fourth, take a look at your helmet. Is it more than four or five years old? Has it already protected your head as you hit the ground? Has it never fit quite right? Now is the perfect time to invest in a new helmet. Most shops have staff who will help you find one that fits you and will help you adjust the straps.

These are just a few things to check before the spring and summer riding season begins. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Meet and Greet and all of the rides we have planned for 2018!