Well, it’s been a little while since we’ve had some news on here, so here we go. Wednesday night rides are still happening and there’s talk of having the trainer rides every week, instead of every other week. The finale thing on the 11th didn’t stop everyone. So bundle up, show up, have some fun. At some point in the relatively near future the Product Catalog is going to get an update, at least the brands/products that are available to be updated. Watch for news posts related to that.

There’s still quite a few killer deals left in our selection of 2006 bicycles. Come check them out. Don’t forget we have all your cold weather gear, and hockey equipment. Until next time…

We recently received our shipment of indoor trainers, ranging from $100 all the way up to $500, with most models being between $270-330. Putting time in on the trainer is a good way to stay fit during the winter. Mark posts in his blog about how unicycling can be a great way to cross train, and just have fun, be sure to check that out. So, stop in, see our selection of trainers, and maybe think about unicycling.

Some of you know that I unicycle fairly often. It’s listed in my bio. Now i want to convince you to at least give it a shot. I know that riding a unicycle has improved my biking, both on and off road. So, with the help of the online unicycling community, I’ve come up with a top 10 reasons to unicycle.

10. It’s a great off season workout.

9. Improves cadence and leg speed.

8. Improves leg strength.

7. Greatly improves balance.

6. Improves core strength.

5. Good fun for all ages(learn with your kids for family bonding).

4. Makes even a trip around the block feel like an adventure.

3. Super low maintenance vehicle.

2. Compact and easy to transport.

1. It takes twice the man (or woman) to ride half the bike.

Okay, those might not be in too specific of an order, but unicycling is a fun activity for all ages. You’re never to young or old to learn, and it really is quite a work out. It takes roughly 10-15 hours of practice to learn, which for most people is about 2 weeks. For more information check the community linked above, leave a comment here, or show up in the basement of State Gym on the ISU campus Monday and Wednesday night around 7:30 for the ISU Unicycle Club meetings, which are open to the public. Hopefully Kyle and I can get a DesMoines area unicycle club going sometime this winter or at least the not too distant future.

That’s all for now. Check out some videos on the community forums. Some of those kids are really really good.

Commuting in the heat is nothing new. When in calendar says October 2nd and you’re sweating and wishing you’d worn the sleeveless jersey, it is. Supposely the heat’s going to last for a few more days, then back to the normal chilly temperatures. I guess I’m fine with that. Now riding in the dark is a fairly new experience for me. As we close at 7pm, I generally ride home after dark. A good headlight is crucial, but perhaps moreso, is a good tail light. Reflective devices only do so much, to really get see you need to put out your own light. I’m getting more comfortable with riding in the dark, but being passed by cars is still a little unnerving. The amount of wildlife see shortly after dusk is incredible. I can’t count how many deer if passed (mostly on the bike trail around Saylorville) in the last couple weeks. Plenty of other animals are out and about too.
Wow. That was fairly rambling and I hope it made sense. Remember there is no off season, if you aren’t a slacker.