Nutcase helmets, out of Portland Oregon, are multi-purpose helmets. Their designs are original, unique, imaginative and fun!

Michael Morrow, the creator and founder of Nutcase Helmets, found that “there was nothing ‘cool’ from a graphics standpoint for youth and adults.” So he set out to change that, combining highly visual graphics with multi-purpose helmet designs.

“People are not going to wear helmets any less in the future, so somebody has to make them more exciting to wear. That ‘somebody’ is Nutcase!” said Morrow.

Nutcase helmets are now available at Higher Gear. Come in to check out these cool helmets!

Jeff Kopiwoda, 40′s, Attorney, Restauranteur, Husband & Father of 2

Andy Cohen, 41, Attorney

Danny Grant, 49, Wealth Management

HG: How frequently do you commute to work?
JK: I try to ride to work a couple of days each week.  Every other day I tote an extra fresh suit to the office.
AC: 2-4 days per week.
DG: I ride to work 2-4 times/month

HG: How far is your commute?
JK: About 19 miles each way, 38 miles on the day.
AC: 12.5 miles one-way
DG: About 18 miles each way.

HG: How long does it take you to make that commute?
JK: About 1:05 door to door.  That’s only 5 to 10 minutes longer than commuting by train (I rarely drive) after you factor in walking from home to the Metra station, waiting for the train, riding the train, then walking from Ogilvie to the office.  It’s great to be able to get 2 hours of cardio in for only an extra 15 minutes out of your day.
AC: It takes me anywhere from 37 to 55 minutes, depending on how peppy I am feeling that day and how much stuff I am carrying.
DG: It takes a little over an hour.

HG: How long does it take you to get to work when you don’t take your bike?
JK: About 55 minutes to 1 hour door to door (each way).  Since Metra raised rates in February, commuting by train now costs about $8.50 each day (round trip with a 10-ride ticket).  Riding 2x per week May through September translates to a $340 savings.  Your savings can pay for your bike after only a couple seasons.  I’m sure the savings is dramatically greater for drivers.
AC: It takes me maybe 10-15 minutes less if I drive.
DG: Approx. 50 minutes.

HG: What’s your route to get to the Loop?
JK: I take Sheridan from Kenilworth to Hollywood, then hop on the Lakefront bike trail along LSD to downtown.  Here it is on MapMyRide >>
For those who prefer to avoid the roads (near Northwestern and Loyola can be dicey for newer riders), the North Shore Chanel Bike Trail offers another option, but you have to cross over to the Lakefront Trail at some point (I cross at Granville).  Here it is on MapMyRide >> This route tacks on an extra 3 miles each way (about the length of the Granville stretch).
DG: I take a route that weaves through Evanston and Rogers Park before getting on the lakefront path. The route I take is somewhat well-known by bike commuters. Here it is on MapMyRide >>

Andy, describe your route north.
AC: North on Sheridan Road from downtown HP (right past Higher Gear), through Fort Sheridan.  Then I get on the Green Bay trail North all the way to 176 (Rockland Road) and take the E/W branch trail over to Waukegan Road.  It’s 1 mile up Waukegan to the South end of Abbott Park that is the only really traffick-y part.  Sometimes I take the side streets through the local part of Lake Bluff to avoid that mile on Waukegan if the traffic is extra heavy or extra fast.

HG: What is your commuter bike?
JK: Colnago World Cup.  I use the slightly more durable cross tires while commuting all summer, then swap them out for road tires a few weeks before the Wrigley Field Road Tour.
AC: When I have to carry a load (computer, lots of clothes, files, etc.), I’ll ride a cheapo Jamis Aurora touring bike I inherited from a friend because it has large bags that I can fill with stuff.  I also use this setup to go grocery shopping, or I’ll pull a child trailer and fill that with groceries.  On days I don’t have to carry much (other than maybe a light backpack load), I’ll ride my 2008 Specialized Tarmac that I got at Higher Gear.  It’s a lot more fun than the Jamis, so I try to stash clothes at work and keep the loads light where possible so I can maximize my trips on the Tarmac versus the Jamis.
DG: I ride a sturdy crappy old cross bike, a Motobecane. It can handle the inevitable potholes and bad roads and, more importantly, no one wants to steal it!

HG: Are those your only bikes?
JK: I also have an old Specialized mountain bike that I use for cruising the neighborhood with the family.
AC: Other than the Tarmac and the Jamis Aurora, I also own a Jamis cyclocross bike that I inherited from a friend, and a really cheapo old Diamond Back mountain bike that I kick around on sometimes.
DG: I also ride a Cannondale Saeco Six road bike and an old school Specialized Stump Jumper mountain bike.

HG: What’s the lowest temperature you’ll ride in?
JK: I don’t ride when it’s below 60.  I’m a fair weather rider, though I’ve been told that there’s no poor weather… only poor clothes.
AC: I’ll ride in any temperature.  I have enough layers available to make almost any temperature ride-able.  I stop when there’s too much snow/ice to get through safely.
DG: I’ll ride in the 20′s but only if there’s no ice on the ground.

HG: What is the most important item you bring on your commute?
JK: A zip lock plastic bag (rain or shine) for your ID, credit card and some emergency cash.  Mobile telephone is a close runner-up, but that also goes in the plastic bag.
AC: Bike Computer.
DG: In the spring and fall, I won’t leave without my headlamp.  During other times, I make sure that I’m well illuminated with other safety lights.

HG: Do you have any advice for people considering commuting?
JK: 1. Find a nearby gym or club with a shower and bike room that allows you to leave your bike overnight if necessary. Check with your office building – many provide these amenities free of charge. 2. Be organized.  Have everything you will need to clean up and dress waiting for you at the office or gym.  Forgetting a towel, cuff links or collar stays can bring down a good morning ride. 3. Check the weather before you start.  Riding through a morning shower can be exhilarating but you don’t want to be riding in a lightning storm.

AC: 1. Scout your most traffic-free route in advance. 2. Stash clothes at work if possible to minimize what you have to carry. 3. Adopt a “can-do” attitude. I find that even on days that I feel tired or want to wimp out on a morning ride to work, by the time I get out there and get to work, I am always glad that I did it!

DG: First and foremost, be safe and ride defensively. There are so many ways for accidents to happen, and one needs to think ahead. Watch out for people opening car doors, watch out for pedestrians, etc. Next, make sure to prepare for the weather at both ends of your commute. Finally, remember to carefully pack your clothes. You don’t want to get to work and realize you forgot to pack your work shoes (happened to me) or underwear (also, happened to me).

Struggling to fit cycling in to your busy lifestyle? How about saving money on gas (or the increased Metra fees) and pedaling your way to work? If you’ve even considered commuting by bike, the League of American Bicyclists invites you to try it this week.

To help celebrate National Bike Month (May), May 14th-18th is Bike to Work Week and Friday, May 18th is Bike to Work Day.

Too often overlooked and underrated, the bicycle is the simplest and most pleasure-inducing way to get healthier while saving our environment and reconnecting with our community in a positive way.

Visit League of American Bicyclists  to learn more about how cycling help save the environment while saving you money, and for their tips for commuting to work.

Need further convincing? Read about our local commuters and their advice for those considering cycling to work. Cylcing allows them to fit in a workout during an otherwise busy day and it saves them money without increasing their commute time significantly. You can also read about some of the items that makes their commute even better.

Here are more events to consider:

May 16th: Ride of Silence
On May 16, 2012 at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. Cyclists will take to the roads worldwide in a slow (max. 12mph), silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn’t aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.
Illinois locations include Bartlett, Chicago, Downers Grove and Joliet
http://www.rideofsilence.org/main.php

May 1st-August 31st: The Kimberly-Clark Get Up & Ride National Bike Challenge
Sign up now as an individual or as a team, log your miles, share your stories and encourage others to join you while competing for prizes and awards on the local and national level, including a Grand Prize trip through California wine country from Trek Travel.
http://www.endomondo.com/campaign/national

Now that you’re motivated to dust the cobwebs off that bike in the garage, come in to Higher Gear. We can get those brakes working and your gears shifting smoothly, make sure your wheels are working for you (not against you) and ensure your bicycle is safe to ride. So bring your bike in for its annual/Spring tune-up. While you’re in, we can also help you accessorize – whether you need lights for an early morning commute or a fashionable bike shirt for hitting the trail.

Carol Coplan Babbitt
Wilmette Mother of 3 and Attorney

HG: How frequently do you commute to work?
CCB: From approx April through November, I try to commute on a bike once per week (of the 4 days I go to my office). It’s generally the best weather day of that week.

HG: What’s the lowest temperature you’ll ride your bike in?
CCB: I won’t ride if it’s in any way icy on the pavement and I will not ride below 45 degrees.

HG: How far is your commute?
CCB: I believe it is 16 miles 1 way, this could be optimistic. So 32 mile roundtrip.

HG: How long does it take you to make that commute?
CCB: Around an hour and 12 minutes.

HG: How long does it take you to get to work when you don’t take your bike?
CCB: At least 50 minutes.

HG: Describe your route.
CCB: I take Hinman or the bike path into the city, through Rogers park and Loyola on Sheridan to Ardmore, to the Chicago lakefront bike path to the river walk path that goes under Michigan Ave, to Lower Wacker and into my building garage.

The Vis360 is the ideal commuter light. 360 degrees of visibility!

HG: What is your commuter bike?
CCB: Specialized Dolce Elite.

HG: Is that your only bike?
CCB: I have an old Bianchi that I use for kid and parent rides.

HG: What is your most important cycling item, the one you won’t commute without?
CCB: Back flashing lights so cars can see me.

HG: Any tips for people considering commuting by bike?
CCB: 1. Be willing to give up showering until you are back home.
2. Make sure your building has indoor bike storage. 3. Never attempt to ride in clothes you intend to wear at work.

Nancy Heymann, 51 years old
Office manager for a chiropractic and sports medicine clinic

HG: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not on your bike?
NH: I like to read and cook and eat!  I like to spend time with my kids and my dog.  I also enjoy traveling, skiing, and hiking.

HG: What kind of cycling do you do?
NH: I ride on- and off-road.  I race road, track, mountain bike and cyclocross.

HG: Do you ride solo or in a group?
NH: I do both and enjoy both.  I love to ride and train with a group.  Being out with your friends and teammates makes any ride or training session more fun.  I also really enjoy going out by myself.  I find that I look around at the scenery more when I’m on my own and it’s great to just ride at your own pace.

HG: What is your favorite ride/route?
NH: I love the Sylvan Lake Loop.  You ride through a neighborhood along a lake, and it always makes me feel like I’m on vacation.  It’s so pretty and peaceful.  It’s hard to believe you’re so close to home.

HG: What is your favorite cycling event?
NH: I love doing Chequamegon.  It’s a mountain bike race in Hayward, WI. You get to have a mini-vacation with friends and do a really fun mountain bike race.  This will be my 15^th year racing it.  It was also the first bike race that I ever did.

When I first did Cheguamegon in 1994 it took me over 2 hours to finish.  Now I finish in under 1:10 so I’ve taken almost a full hour off my time and I’m almost 20 years older!

HG: Congratulations on a successful 2011 cycling season! What were some of your accomplishments?
NH: I raced three mountain bike races. I won the women’s overall in the sport division at the Palos Meltdown, and won my age group at Crystal Ridge and Chequamegon.  I was also on the podium for five out of the six state championship races that I entered at the track.
HG notes: Nancy also placed 7th in her division, 2nd in Cat 3′s at the National Cyclocross Championship in Madison. And 11th in her division, 4th in Cat 3′s in the World Cyclocross Championship in Louisville.

HG: What were some of your highlights from last season? 
NH: Definitely the Madison State Championship at the track.  There you race with a partner.  One person is always racing and the other is riding slowly and resting.  Every 1-2 laps you grab each other by the arm and the one who has been racing flings the rider that has been resting to get them back up to race speed.  I was so nervous about doing it and then ended up having so much fun!

I also loved racing at the cyclocross masters’ World Championships in Louisville.  There was snow, ice, mud and sand for my race.  Every lap was a challenge.  I was battling back and forth with a couple of women for a lot of the race and ended up beating them both in a sprint finish.   I also had three friends and Higher Gear teammates, Francine and Brian Haas and Lynn Rivier, who came to Louisville to cheer me on.  It was so great to have their support and it really helped through the whole race to have them cheering me on.

HG: What are your cycling goals for this year?
NH: I am focusing on Chequamegon and cyclocross Nationals and Worlds.

HG: What does cycling mean to you?
NH: I love the exhilarating feeling of racing in a group or riding over difficult terrain on my mountain or cross bike, but I think what means most to me about cycling is the friendships that develop through riding and racing.  I have incredible friends among my teammates. I have also met so many great people through racing that I never would have met otherwise.

HG: Do you remember your first bicycle?
NH: My first bike was a hand-me-down from my brothers that my parents spray painted pink for me.  My brothers took me to the school playground to teach me to ride.  They ran with me to get me up to speed and then let go so I would run into the brick wall of the school.  No wonder I love things like cyclocross.  I got early training in extreme biking!

HG: When did you first get into cycling?
NH: I started riding recreationally 17 years ago because some of my close friends were riding, and it was a great way to spend time together.  I started racing competitively two years ago.

HG: What were you riding when you fell in love with the sport?
NH: I’d have to say it is my second mountain bike…my blue Cannondale.  It is such a pretty bike.  I loved washing it after it would get all muddy.  I still have that bike after 15 years.  I justify keeping it by loaning it out to my friends who are new to mountain biking, but the truth is I just can’t bear to get rid of that bike.

HG: You’ve made a few references to dirt and mud. You’re focusing on mountain & cyclocross for this year. You must enjoy playing in the dirt.
NH: Yes, I love going out and riding in the dirt and mud.  It’s like being a kid again and just going out to ride your bike because it’s so much fun!

HG: Higher Gear is known for its post-race feasts. What is your favorite post-cycling/post-race meal?
NH: All post-race meals are my favorite meals!!  I love to eat and it all tastes so much better after you ride!

One of my most memorable was last year after Chequamegon.  When we got to the restaurant, they said we had missed lunch, but they might be able to get us some of the barbequed chicken.  They brought the chicken and then started bringing potatoes, jicama salad and all kinds of really amazing food.  It went from having missed lunch to this incredible feast.

HG: You got into bicycle racing later in life. Any advice to others, particularly women, who are thinking about making such a drastic change in their lifestyle?
NH: I didn’t feel like I made a drastic change in my lifestyle.  I kind-of worked my way into it.  As my kids got older and more independent, I had more time to ride.  That made training and racing seem more possible.  I slowly made lifestyle changes to get to where I am today.

HG: You juggle cycling with being a mom and working. Any advice for moms? 
NH: It’s really hard to juggle it all. My kids come first when I’m juggling, but I also think it’s important for them, especially as they get older, to learn to do things on their own.  I think the key is to not be too hard on yourself and don’t worry about doing everything perfectly at home or work or with your kids.  Sometimes laundry doesn’t get done or there isn’t a home cooked meal every night, and sometimes you have to skip a training ride to be at home and be mom.  And somehow everyone survives!

My advice to moms is that while it may feel very selfish to take time away from your family to ride and race, you are demonstrating very healthy choices for your kids.  You are also showing them that it’s ok for women to be strong and active and independent.  Plus, cycling is a great family activity.  If you get started, you can get the whole family started.

I feel like the most important advice I can give to any woman who is thinking about cycling or racing is that you are never too old and that you can accomplish almost anything that you set out to do if you are willing to work hard enough to achieve it.

Francine Haas, 45 years old
Financial Analyst , USAC Category 2 Racer

HG: You recently helped Higher Gear put on its first annual Women’s Cycling Clinic. You’re known in the area for sharing your knowledge of & love for cycling with others, especially women.
FH: I’ve been putting on women’s events for the last 10 years. It all started on a whim, really. I thought to myself, I love this sport, but why am I the only women on most of these group rides and why are there so few women racing? I set out to bring women into this sport by having a clinic to introduce them to cycling. The clinics have evolved since then, bringing more focus on skills and bike handling, but the overall theme is to empower women to get out there and to feel comfortable and confident on their bikes.

HG: What do you enjoy most about these teaching opportunities?
FH: For me what’s most rewarding is watching people improve. I’ve had women come out to their first road ride terrified of getting close to other riders and not fit enough to keep up without the help of the draft. I give a lot of pushes and encourage them to keep coming out, week after week. When they finally make it through the ride without any pushes, sitting comfortably in the group, it’s huge. We all go home happy.

HG: What advice do you have for women who are interested in stepping up their cycling game – whether it be getting into racing or group rides or just getting on their bikes more consistently?
FH: If you want to get into riding, work on your skills and learn how to be efficient. Try to stay consistent in your training and don’t give up when you’re having a bad day.

HG: You are an accomplished racer in several disciplines. What are some of your cycling accomplishments you are most proud of?
FH: I’ve had so many wonderful experiences racing my bike, but one that sticks out in my mind is winning the Illinois State Road Race as a Category 3 rider. I had made the race one of my goals for the season, The course was challenging, but doable. I raced aggressively, but in the end it came down to a sprint. I put myself in a good position heading into the finish and sprinted as hard as I could. It all came together for me that day and it really was a great feeling crossing the line in first place.

HG: What is your favorite cycling event?
FH: It’s hard to say what my favorite event is. I do a little of everything because I think they’re all fun for different reasons. If I had to pick one event, I’d say the miss-n-out track race. It’s a race where, lap after lap they eliminate riders until there are just a few left. If you manage to stay in, there is one neutral lap and then a sprint to the finish. There’s a lot of strategy involved to do well, but the race combines both endurance and sprinting abilities.

HG: What is your favorite ride/route?
FH: One of my favorite routes is the Sylvan Lake loop, but I really enjoy the speed and intensity of the Judson and Mafia rides.

HG: Do you commute by bike?
FH: I commute to work a few days a week. It’s only a four-mile ride, so it can hardly be considered a workout. Since I live in the city, it is, by far, the fastest way to get to work.

HG: What are your cycling goals for this year?
FH: My biggest goal for the season is to race well tactically with my teammates. Aside from that, although not an “A” race, I would like to do well at the Joe Martin Stage Race. Other key races are Downer Ave, the State Points Race and the Madison on the track the Team Time Trial and Chequamegon

HG: How did you get into cycling?
FH: I began my cycling career as a triathlete, my first race was the first Chicago Triathlon in 1983. I made the switch to road cycling in 1999, adding track and and cyclo-cross shortly after. I also compete in one mountain bike race every year –Chequamegon.

HG: How did you get into racing?
FH: I did my first fast group ride in the summer of 1997. It was my first real exposure to a rotating paceline and for a large part of the ride I seemed to be doing just fine. Then someone attacked from the back of the pack and the entire group responded. I looked down at my speedometer and saw 37mph, but I was getting left behind. I was terrified but thrilled all at the same time. Luckily I was saved by a red light! The rush of that moment changed me forever. I was happy just participating in the group rides for a while. It was Brian, who made the push to get into racing and I followed along, competing in the Downers Grove Criterium in the fall of 1998.

HG: You & your husband, Brian Haas often ride together. Are you competitive with each other?
FH: I don’t feel competitive with Brian. We encourage each other to do our best.

HG: Who is the better cyclist?
FH: Brian is definitely a better cyclist.

HG: Did you get into cycling together?
FH: When I met Brian he enjoyed riding, but he was doing mostly running. I introduced him to group cycling and he instantly became a fan of the sport. I continued to compete in triathlons and running races, but Brian ventured out in the cycling arena. He started off racing on Friday nights at the Northbrook velodrome. He found that bike racing was a lot like running a track race and since he ran collegiately, it seemed like a great fit. It didn’t take much convincing from Brian, but soon I was converted into a competitive cyclist.

HG: Would it be possible to be as successful as you are as a cyclist without his support?
FH: I’ve been competing in sports all my life. I’m driven by competition and it’s what makes me happy. Luckily for us, we both are very driven to compete. Brian has helped me refine my training, which has had a huge impact on my racing.

HG: Do you remember the bicycle you were riding when you fell in love with the sport?
FH: I think I have always loved cycling, but when I made the commitment to do my first triathlon, I also purchased my first race bike. It was a Schwinn Super Le Tour and I paid $347.00 for it back in 1983. That bike will always be special to me.

HG: What is your most important piece of cycling equipment?
FH: The one gadget I always have on my bike is my power meter. I train with power, so being able to see my output is key. I don’t really look at the numbers when I’m in a race (unless I’m in a time trial) but I study the power files later to see what I might need work on or analyze how well I raced.

HG: What’s your pre-race/pre-ride meal?
FH: Hands down, my favorite pre-race meal is pasta with red sauce and meatballs.

HG: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not on your bike?
FH: When I’m not on my bike I enjoy cooking and/or enjoying a great meal with a glass of wine. I also love to watch Flamenco performances. The dancers and the musicians bring so much passion into what they do, you can’t help but get wrapped up in the moment. Having taken 10 years of tap dancing when I was younger, the transition to Flamenco seems natural. One day, when I’m not so busy, I’m going learn to Flamenco. Ole!

In the Windy City we tell people, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 15 minutes!” …Which doesn’t always work while out on a ride.

For this reason, Sugoi made the Versa Jacket, their flagship technical outwear piece.

Sugoi’s Versa Jacket is the essential lightweight jacket for those of us who know how quickly the wind can change over the lake or how temps can vary when riding from city streets to forest preserve.

Using magnets, rather than awkward zippers, the Sugoi Versa Jacket is easily and quickly convertible from a jacket into a vest and back again even mid-ride.*

Other features include
* Breathable stretch fabrics and engineered panels allow for close-fit comfort and unrestricted freedom of movement
* Mesh ventilation in the back for maximum airflow
* Three pockets, including a rear stow-away pocket that easily stores the removable sleeves when not in use
* 3M Reflective piping on front, side and back for added visibility

Here’s what Higher Gear’s Joy Sherrick has to say about her Sugoi Versa Jacket:

“The Versa has become my go-to jacket. I lived in it for outdoor runs all winter long. It’s my favorite cycling jacket by far – especially for the fall and spring months when I’m not sure what conditions I’ll be encountering at the lakefront.”

MSRP: $120  Available in Mens & Womens

* Not all of us are riding in the Tour de France. Higher Gear advocates safe cycling practices and recommends making the transition while stopped. Just know the conversion from jacket to vest or vice versa is quick – which will give you time to refuel or check your Twitter feed (while stopped, of course) while your cycling mates are still fumbling with their cumbersome zippers!

Introduced in 2010, the Garmin Edge 800 opened up our eyes to what a cycling computer can be. It’s a full-featured mapping computer with performance monitoring. It provides everything you want to know on your ride and more in a sleek, lightweight and aerodynamic package.

Ideal for touring, commuting, competitive cycling and mountain biking, the Garmin Edge 800 puts all your data at your fingertips – literally! The waterproof touch screen is rugged enough to survive the elements yet is sensitive enough to respond to your touch (even through gloved fingers).

Click here to view the embedded video.

You can customize up to three pages of data to see on-screen while you’re riding. After your ride, upload the data to Garmin Connect™, Garmin’s website for free data analysis and sharing. The high-sensitivity GPS records your data even under tree cover.

The Garmin Edge 800 has built-in basemaps to help you find your way. Garmin’s free BaseCamp™ software allows you to create a route, view elevation changes and other data from your computer, and then upload it to Edge. You can also use Garmin Connect™ to load courses and routes created by other users.

The Garmin Edge 800 is ANT+™ compatible so it can be paired with a heart rate monitor (included with some models), speed/cadence sensor (included with some models or available separately) or any ANT+ compatible power meter for a finely tuned analysis of your ride.

Need some motivation? Use the Virtual Training Partner®  – where you can see a digital depiction of your goal speed vs. your speed in real-time. “Today’s record is tomorrow’s motivation.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

DC Rainmaker says: “In summary, this device rocks.  It’s everything that most cyclist have been asking for – even if they didn’t know they were asking for it. …For a purely dedicated cycling computer, there’s nothing like it today.”

Bianchi Infinito Ultegra
The name says it all: this bike is without limits. The Bianchi Infinito offers an optimal geometry for efficient riding for long rides. It employs Bianchi’s Carbon Nano Tube Technology (CNTT), Bianchi Active Technology (BAT) and Kevlar Vibration Isolating Device (K-VID). Combined, the effect is a smoother stiffer ride, greater compliance, improved shock absorption and wheel adherence on the road.

You want more? Wrap it all up in Bianchi’s classic good looks and smooth it off with a Shimano Ultegra drive train and you will turn heads (but you’ll be enjoying yourself too much to notice).

From reviews from RoadBikeReview.com
“Overall this is a great bike. I am having a blast riding it. the bike gets appreciative looks and comments from other riders.”
“I have already put 80 miles on the bike since I picked it up from my LBS. I can say that the ride quality is very, very good.”
“Shifts are faster with the Ultegra.”
“Very comfortable, smooth, and fast. Handles like a charm.”

Come by Higher Gear and check out the Bianchi Infinito Ultegra.
MSRP $3499.99

Bianchi Impulso 105
Bianchi’s new addition to their C2C family of endurance road bicycles. Race bred responsiveness and Giro d’Italia proven geometry make this a Bianchi a favorite for the local metric century. The Bianchi Impulso features an aluminum frame with carbon fork and seat post

The main feature of this frame is the use of the Triple Hydroformed Technology (THT), exclusive to Bianchi. Bianchi claims the benefit of this technology is a 10% improvement in the frame’s stiffness. Gear Heads will notice the clean monocoque appearance: no unsightly welds to spoil this Italian beauty. And what a beauty it is!

BikeRadar.com said:
“It willingly and sensibly sacrifices some reactivity in favour of great stability. We tried to provoke it by nudging the bars at 40mph and it simply straightened itself out. That’s just what you need on a fast descent towards the end of an exhausting sportive.”

Stop in Higher Gear to see the Bianchi Impulso 105.
MSRP $1499.99

B4P
Bianchi’s Born 4 Performance frames are engineered to combine rigidity and lightweight and feature Bianchi’s racing geometry. Versatility is the key to Bianchi’s B4P category, meeting the needs of different types of cyclists.

Sempre 105
“Sempre” is Italian for “Always.” With its stiff frame, reduced weight and competitive geometry, the Bianchi Sempre is the Always the perfect bicycle. For versatile cyclists.

Utilizing the Carbon Nano Tech (CNT), the Carbon Monocoque and the Ultra Thin Seat Stays (UTSS), Bianchi has produced a bicycle that is “at home on quick blasts, long day-rides, and anywhere in between,” per Bike Radar. Again, just when you think it couldn’t get better, package that technology inside the classic Italian styling of Bianchi and your all-rounder becomes the head-turner.

BikeRadar loved the Sempre! Read their review here.
“The Sempre sets out to be all things to all men, and fulfills its brief. The frame and fork combine for a sublime ride, brilliant under power and with direct, race-ready steering. It also has a superb knack of damping out vibrations”
“It’s direct, nimble and so quick to respond to your input that the bike pulses forward with every pedal stroke. This means that out-of-the-saddle sprints and quick direction changes can be performed without drama or any untoward movements.”

Need further encouragement to determine the Sempre is the right bike for you? Highland Park’s very own Sheila Wilson can tell you why she loves hers!

Come in to Higher Gear to chat with Sheila or test ride the Bianchi Sempre 105.
MSRP $2299.99

To learn more about Bianchi’s history of innovation, tradition of excellence and “passione,” click here, check out Bianchi’s website or visit us at Higher Gear.

11-25 March: 33rd Annual Spring Training Criterium
The 0.7 mile wide loop course with almost flat and smooth roads is ideal for the start of the outdoor racing season and especially new criterium racers.
Pleasant Prairie, WI
http://www.ambikerace.com/2012/flyers/SpringTrainingCrits.html

26-29 March: Gapers Block Crits
A fun and accessible race series, perfect for beginners.
Calumet Park, Chicago, IL
www.halfacrecycling.org

31 March: Burnham Racing Spring Super Crit
This USAC-sanctioned event, celebrating its 5^th year, will once again serve as the season-opener for the Illinois Cup. With Blackhawk Farms Raceway as the backdrop, the 2012 SSC will recognize 13 different Champions. The SSC has qualities serving everyone from the first-time competitor to the grizzled veteran. Elevation gains are minor, but the nearly two-mile-long course has many sweeping and declining radius turns, as well as final straightaway that in the last five years has served as the Launch Pad for legendary showdowns. Co-hosted by Burnham Racing and Spidermonkey Cycling.
South Beloit , IL
http://burnhamracing.org

1 April – 15 September: Mid America Time Trial Series
Since its beginning in 1988, MATTS has grown to become one of the largest and longest running time trial series in the United States.  MATTS offers 18 events, both indoor and outdoor, individual and team events, and over thirty (30) age group and abilty categories to choose from, giving time trialists in Illinois and Wisconsin lots of options. MATTS encourages cyclists of all levels, juniors, masters, triathletes, and duathletes to participate in its events.
1 April: John Fraser Memorial 10 mile, Athletes by Design, Maple Park, IL
15 April: Cherry Valley 20k, Big Ring Flyers & Freeport BC, Cherry Valley, IL
5 May: Single Bong, 20k, WBR, Kansasville, WI
19 May: Barstow 20k, Stray Kats Racing, Barstow, IL
3 June: Harvard 33.3k, WBR, Harvard, IL
10 June: Bond and a Half 30k, WBR, Kansasville, WI
16 June: Scarlet Fire Racing 40k 2-person TTT, MMCT, Garden Prairie, IL
24 June: Illinois State Championship 40k, Apache Racing, Paw Paw, IL
8 July: Wolfgang Freitag Memorial 50k 2-person TTT, MMCT, Herscher, IL
22 July: Regional Championship 40k, Stray Kats Racing, Cordova, IL
4 August: Bryce Master 19k, Lamb Little Racing, Harvard, IL
18 August: Kirke Vei Time Trial 20k, MadCity Velo, Kegonsa, WI
26 August: Double Bong State Championship 40k, WBR, Kansasville, WI
8 September: Four Person TTT 60k, PYOC, TBA, IL
15 September: MATTS Finale 39k, EMC2, Garden Prairie, IL
www.ambikerace.com

14 April: Hillsboro-Roubaix
Wish you could race a Spring Classic in Europe? This 28.75 mile loop through the streets of Hillsboro has all you want in a Spring Classic: flat open back roads with no cover from the spring winds, rolling terrain, short but challenging climbs, twisty descents and village streets paved with brick.
Hillsboro, IL
http://web.me.com/iccc_stl/Hillsboro/Welcome.html

22 April: Alderman James Cappleman’s 46th Ward Lincoln Park Criterium
XXX Racing-AthletiCo has a long record of bringing quality amateur racing to the city of Chicago. This year marks a change in venue for this annual criterium.
Lincoln Park/Montrose Harbor, Chicago, IL
www.xxxracing.org

29 April: 31st Annual Folks on Spokes Easter Ride
Food and fun are what this ride is all about! Pick one of five routes (17, 28, 33, 50 or 62 mile) through pastoral farmlands, wildflower-filled woods and friendly towns. Rest stops are stocked with fruit, drinks, sandwiches, homemade cookies and even live entertainment. After the ride, stop at Dining on the Green for food, music and a massage. You may even see the Easter Bunny!
Park Forest, IL
www.folksonspokes.com

May: National Bike Month
League of American Bicyclists
http://www.bikeleague.org/

1 May-31 August: The Kimberly-Clark Get Up & Ride National Bike Challenge
Sign up now as an individual or as a team, log your miles, share your stories and encourage others to join you while competing for prizes and awards on the local and national level, including a Grand Prize trip through California wine country from Trek Travel.
http://www.endomondo.com/campaign/national

6 May: ICHS QuadruPedal Spring Century Challenge
The very best charity bike tour in the Midwest and the toughest spring ride around! This tour showcases the beautiful rolling hills of southwest Wisconsin. Here’s your chance to ride on some of the same roads used by he Dairyland Dare, the Horribly Hilly Hundred and the Wright Stuff Century, with full SAG support, rest stops, showers and a meal when you finish. Ride options include challenging routes of 35, 55, 85 and 100 miles for the cycling enthusiast. Cycling Fundraiser for the Iowa County Humane Society
Dodgeville, WI
http://www.ichs.net/quadrupedal.html

12 May: Monsters of the Midway Criterium
A flat, fast 4-corner race held on the beautiful Midway south of the University of Chicago. Sponsored by the University of Chicago Velo Club.
Chicago, IL
http://ucvc.uchicago.edu/Monsters.html

14-18 May: Bike to Work Week
League of American Bicyclists
http://www.bikeleague.org/

16 May: Ride of Silence
On May 16, 2012 at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. Cyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn’t aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves. Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/20 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
Illinois locations include Bartlett, Chicago, Downers Grove and Joliet
http://www.rideofsilence.org/main.php

Friday, 18 May: Bike to Work Day
League of American Bicyclists
http://www.bikeleague.org/

19 May: Arcadia’s Brute Challenge Ride
The 2012 Brute will challenge cyclists with 50K, 100K, 150K & 200K routes, routes that ascend 100 feet for every mile pedaled. Touring over western Wisconsin’s endless network of paved back roads, the routes will lead cyclists up scenic valleys to ridge lines with spectacular views. Staged in a region where Wisconsin’s’ Driftless meets the Mississippi. Characterized by long climbs and descents, cyclists riding the 200K will have 14 ‘mile-long’ climbs, 100k riders will have 8 ‘mile-long’ climbs. Each climb offering memorable moments of 17 to 23% grades. All riders will have the opportunity to climb ‘Catfish & the Hip Breaker’. Stage 1 of the Wisconsin Triple Crown – Endurance Cycling Series
Arcadia, WI
http://www.spreetouring.com

20 May: The Arlington 500
This is a fully-supported recreational bike ride on the scenic roads of Lake County. You have the option of riding 28, 42, 54 or 69 miles (500 furlongs).
Arlington Heights, IL
www.cyclearlington.com

27 May: MB Financial Bank Bike the Drive
Hop on your bike the one day of the year when the length of Lake Shore Drive is open to cyclists and closed to auto traffic. Enjoy the striking skyline and the shimmering water of Lake Michigan as you cruise up and down the entire length of Lake Shore Drive for MB Financial Bank Bike the Drive.
Chicago, IL
http://www.bikethedrive.org/

1 June: Lake Bluff Twilight Crit
Professional bicycle racing comes to the Village of Lake Bluff! The inaugural Lake Bluff Twilight Criterium presented by Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital will begin around 2:30 pm with high-level amateur racing followed by professional men’s and women’s cycling teams with top pro riders from across the United States and many foreign countries. The annual Lake Bluff “Block Party” will also be held on June 1 on the Village Green starting late in the afternoon and continuing well into the evening.
Lake Bluff, IL
http://www.lakeblufftwilightcriterium.com/

2 June: Glencoe Grand Prix
Now in its 6th year, the Glencoe Grand Prix has plenty of good things in store, including participation in USA Cycling’s inaugural National Criterium Calendar. In addition to hosting the IL State Criterium Championship, there will be all the fixings to pair with a great day of racing including food, live music, games for the kids, a beer tent and the traditional noon kid races.
Glencoe, IL
http://www.glencoegrandprix.com/

3 June: Udder Century Invitational
An udderly good time pedaling along flat to rolling rural routes of 32, 50, 62, 75 or 100 miles through the dairy land of northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Take breaks along the way at strategically places rest stops and afterwards enjoy a gourmet pasta dinner in the cow-lossal banquet hall.
Union, IL
http://www.mchenrybicycleclub.org/MCBC%20Udder.htm

8-10 June: Tour of Galena Omnium Stage Race
Top bike racers from across the Midwest will converge on Galena this weekend for the 2nd annual Tour of Galena, three races (a time trial, a road race and a criterium) that will showcase the area’s famous beauty and sporting spirit.
Galena, IL
http://tourofgalena.com/

10 June: 31st BCLC Ramble
This is a recreational ride, pedaling its way over rural roads which traverse the scenic lakes region of northeastern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin, sponsored by the Bicycle Club of Lake County. Routes are 30, 50, 70 and 100 miles. The terrain is flat to rolling with a few roller-coaster hills and a challenging climb or two thrown in. Riders of all capabilities are encouraged to participate and enjoy the scenery, good food, and fellowship offered at the ride.
Wilmot, WI
www.bikebclc.com

11 June – 20 August: Northbrook Developmental Bike Racing Series
The Friday Night Series has a proud history of being the “First Bicycle Race Experience” of cyclists that have gone on to become champions including Olympic, World, USA National and Illinois State champions. The goal of this series is to provide participants and spectators with a positive introduction to velodrome bicycle racing. The club promotes the benefits that cycling provides: for the participants, community and environment, while enjoying the best sport in the world!
Northbrook, IL
www.northbrookbicycleclub.org

16 June: Horrible Hilly Hundreds
100K, 150K, 200K
Blue Mounds State Park, WI
http://www.horriblyhilly.com/home.html

17 June: Windy 60 Bicycle Tour
Sponsored by the Dekalb County Bicycle Club, this ride has become a Midwest Classic over the past 40 years. Route choices are 25, 45 or 62 miles (a metric century) and are generally flat with some rolling terrain. All riders will experience the windmills of DeKalb County.
DeKalb, IL
http://www.northcentralcyclery.com/

21 June – 1 July: Tour of America’s Dairyland
High energy cycling action featuring the best of pro and amateur racers from around the world sponsored by Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board. In addition to cycling, each city will have FREE live entertainment, safe family activities, merchant sidewalk sales and great food.
Thursday, 21 June: Shorewood Criterium Cycling Classic, Shorewood, WI
Friday, 22 June: East Troy Cycling Classic (Criterium), East Troy, WI
Saturday, 23 June: Giro d’ Grafton (Criterium), Grafton, WI
Sunday, 24 June: Waukesha Carl Zach Cycling Classic (Criterium), Waukesha, WI
Monday, 25 June:  June: Greenbush Road Race, Greenbush, WI
Tuesday, 26 June: June: Schlitz Park Criterium, Milwaukee, WI
Wednesday, 27 June: Town of Erin Road Race, Erin, WI
Thursday, 28 June:  June: Sheboygan Harbor Centre International Cycling Challenge (Criterium), Sheboygan, WI
Friday, 29 June:  June: Fond du Lac Gran Prix, Fond du Lac, WI
Saturday, 30 June:  June: ISCorp Downer Classic (Criterium), Milwaukee, WI
Sunday, 01 July: June: Madison Criterium, Madison, WI
http://www.tourofamericasdairyland.com/

23 June: Kickapoo Kicker
Stage 2 of The Wisconsin Triple Crown – Endurance Cycling Series. Route distances are 100K, 150K and 200K. Support cycling in southwest Wisconsin while benefiting the communities that offer up their roads.
Viroqua, WI
http://www.kickapookicker.com/

23-24 June: Bike MS: Tour de Farms
Be a part of the 31st annual Bike MS: Tour de Farms 2012, a two-day bike ride along the beautiful backroads of DeKalb, Illinois, for a world free of MS! Select your own route length–up to 200 total miles.
DeKalb, IL
http://bikeild.nationalmssociety.org

24 June: Swedish Days Ride
Tour the beautiful, scenic, paved back roads of Kane County on a new great route. The Swedish Days ride is one of the premier century rides in the Chicagoland area. The Fox returns this year to celebrate the 43^rd Swedish Days ride, sporting updated routes and new rest stops. Routes are 27-Miles, 45-Miles, 62-Miles, 80-Miles, 100-Miles and 124-Miles.
Burlington, IL
http://www.fvbsc.org/swededays.html

4 July: The Fourth of July Metric Century Ride
A great ride through Kendall and Grundy Counties, southwest of Plainfield, IL sponsored by The Joliet Bicycle Club. There are three routes: 30, 45 and 62 miles, each through farm and rural settings.
Plainfield, IL
www.jolietbicycleclub.org

7-8 July (Saturday night-Sunday morning): Friends of the Parks’ L.A.T.E. Ride
Join up to 9,000 bicyclists for a 25-mile ride through Chicago’s neighborhoods and along the lakefront. Cycle past skyscrapers, hear shout of “Opaah!” in Greek Town, cruise through the North Side, wave to onlookers, and watch the sun rise over Lake Michigan. Plus, you’ll enjoy music before the ride, sponsor booths to explore, refreshments before the ride and at the rest stop, and great food and beverages after your trek through the city. “Chicago is a city of neighborhoods.” You’ll experience many exciting and distinctive neighborhoods during Friends of the Parks’ L.A.T.E. Ride!
Chicago, IL
http://lateride.org/event_info.php

7-22 July: The Point Premium Root Beer International Cycling Classic
Superweek (as it is called by those in the know) is the U.S.’ largest multi-category cycling event, a 17 day-long bicycle race that takes place in Wisconsin & northern Illinois. In 2010/11, there were races in Geneva (Sat), Homewood (Sun), Richton Park (Mon), Willow Spring (Tues) & Lake Geneva (Wed). The city of Evanston is host to the Evanston Grand Prix. Fountain Square will be bustling with 70+ restaurants – many featuring outdoor seating – and the 312 Urban Wheat Ale Beer Garden all along the race course. Enjoy a dance party, bring the kids to their own bicycle race, and be within arms-length from world-class, Olympic-level athletes who are competing for cash prizes and top honors. Bring the family & make a day of it!
Friday, 06 July: Beverly Hills Cycling Classic presented by Vee-Pak & Beverly Bike & Ski, Chicago, IL
Schedule (as of March 2012) subject to change:
Saturday, 07 July: Chicago Bike Race (TBA), Chicago, IL
Sunday, 08 July: Geneva Grand Prix, Geneva, IL
Monday, 09 July: Richton Park Criterium, Richton Park, IL
Tuesday, 10 July: The Willow Springs (Road Race) presented by Connor & Gallagher & Fleet Truck Parts.com, Willow Springs, IL
Wednesday, 11 July: Willow Springs (Road Race) Long Course, Willow Springs, IL
Thursday, 12 July: The South Shore Cyclery Classic, Cudahy, WI
Friday, 13 July: Racine Downtown Challenge, Racine, WI
Saturday, 14 July: Fields Auto Group Waukesha/Otto Wenz Jr (Great Downer Avenue Bike Race) presented by American Airlines, Milwaukee, IL
Sunday, 15 July: Evanston Grand Prix, Evanston, IL
Monday, 16 July: Wheel & Sprocket – Whitnall Park Road Race, Hales Corners, WI
Tuesday, 17 July: Whitnall Park Criterium, Hales Corners, WI
Wednesday, 18 July: Brown Deer Park Challenge presented by Milwaukee County Parks, Brown Deer, WI
Thursday, 19 July: Brookfield/Maximized Living Criterium presented by Bravo Cucina Italiana, Brookfield, WI
Friday, 20 July: Chase/Food Folks & Spokes, Kenosha, WI
Saturday, 21 July: Bay View Classic presented by South Shore Cyclery, Milwaukee, WI
Sunday, 22: July: Bravo Cucina Italiaa/Whitefish Bay Classic presented by Farmers Insurance, Whitefish Bay, WI
http://www.internationalcycling.com/schedule

14-15 July: GITy Up!
Inspired by the 450-mile Grand Illinois Trail, GITy Up! is a single overnight, supported bike tour for beginning cycle tourists, for families and for the expert with a weekend free. You’ll tour the Illinois Prairie Path and Fox River Trail in DuPage and Kane Counties, with camping along the Fox River in beautiful St. Charles.
St. Charles, IL
http://trailsforillinois.tumblr.com/gityup

15 July: Biking with Beanzie
This recreational ride, currently in its 14th year, consists of primarily flat rural roads with some rolling terrain with estimated ride options of 25, 46, 62, 80 or 101 miles. This year also includes 3- and 5-mile community bicycle pathway routes.
DeKalb, IL
http://kishkiwanis.org/

22-28 July: RAGBRAI XL
This is the 40^th year of RAGBRAI®, The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, an annual seven-day bicycle ride across the state. It is the oldest, largest and longest bicycle touring event in the world. The route averages 468 miles and is not necessarily flat.  It begins somewhere along Iowa’s western border on the Missouri River and ends along the eastern border on the Mississippi River. The people of Iowa truly make RAGBRAI a special event by opening up their towns and communities to participants. You are invited to enjoy this Iowa hospitality and a memorable trip across the state.
From Sioux Center to Clinton, Iowa
http://ragbrai.com/

28 July: 2012 USA Cycling Professional Criterium Nationals
Grand Rapids, MI
www.usacycling.org

29 July: Venus de Miles
Venus de Miles is a lot of things – Northern Illinois’ first all-women’s road ride, a celebration of sisterhood, support for Greenhouse Scholars, and crazy fun – but one thing it’s not is a race. So, don’t be afraid to walk your bike up that hill, stop to listen to a band, and, most importantly, enjoy yourself. Join us for our first year and put your pedal to the mettle. Venus is for all skill levels and features four courses to accommodate any rider – novice or seasoned. Rides will be in the 30- and 60-mile range. This ride isn’t about setting a good time, it’s about having one.
Lake Forest, IL
http://illinois.venusdemiles.com/

3-5 August: Tour of Elk Grove
A 3 day multi-stage race, sponsored by AlexianBrothers Hospital. There are races for everyone of all levels. The professional men’s 3 day race is recognised by the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale, based in Switzerland) and the TOEG is 1 of only 6 cycling races in the US to be sanctioned by the UCI.
Elk Grove, IL
http://www.tourofelkgrove.com/

4-6 August: CowaLUNGa
Participate in a 190-mile cycling challenge to support lung cancer research, kids with asthma and clean air! The three-day tour covers a route between Gurnee, IL, and Hubertus, WI, with beautiful places to visit, eat and rest along the way. New this year, Robbie Ventura, a professional cyclist and teammate of Lance Armstrong, will join cyclists for the ride Saturday morning.  Riders also have the option of biking one or two days of the tour.
Gurnee, IL
http://www.lungchicago.org/cowalunga

5 August: Two Rivers Century
An enjoyable one-day ride in Kankakee County along two scenic Illinois Rivers. In addition to the two rivers, riders will also see downtown Kankakee, Kankakee Community College, The Shapiro Clock Tower, barn quilts, two Frank Lloyd Wright homes, border town Momence and its “Island Park”, buffalo, Watseka, one of the largest and oldest wood frame churches in IL, corn, beans and more! Six distance options: 22, 47, 62, 80, 100 and 124 miles.
http://tworiverscentury.com/

11 August: Dairyland Dare Grand Fondo Wisconsin
Set in southwest Wisconsin, the land untouched by glacial flattening, the Dairyland Dare Gran Fondo Wisconsin offers some of the most extreme hills in the midwest. Pick from 6 chip timed one day challenges: 50K, 100K, 150K, 200K, 250K, or 300K. Stage 3 of The Wisconsin Triple Crown – Endurance Cycling Series.
Dodgeville, WI
www.dairylanddare.com

19 August: Wrigley Field Road Tour: 100 Miles To Go
The Wrigley Field Road Tour is an exclusive opportunity to ride with Chicago Cubs Owner Todd Ricketts and SRAM Executive Vice President F.K. Day to benefit the global work of World Bicycle Relief and the community work of Chicago Cubs Charities. For 2012, the ride will start and end at Wrigley Field with a party on the field.
http://worldbicyclerelief.org/programs/wrigleyfieldroadtour

26 August: Bike Psychos Century XXIX
Follow the historic I&M Canal Corridor over scenic country roads along the Illinois River. A classic ride with a bike club celebrating over 30 years.
Coal City, IL
http://www.bikepsychos.org/html/century_2012.html

2 September: Wright Stuff Century
The 34^th annual ride through scenic southwestern Wisconsin and historic Frank Lloyd Wright country. 30, 64 and 100 mile routes pass by Taliesin and stop at Unity Church.
Tyrol Basin, Mt. Horeb, WI
http://wrightstuffcentury.com/

9 September: Sub-5 Century
If you ride your bike with a purpose, whether it be as a serious road cyclist or recreational rider the Sub 5 Century Challenge gives you two options to test your mettle – a timed 100 mile team event for the serious road cyclist or an untimed recreational ride of 25 to 75 miles for cyclists who want to ride at their own pace, individually or in a group to enjoy the scenery and support Parkinson’s Research.  Whichever event you choose you’ll be helping to raise $100,000 to aid Parkinson’s Research.
Hampshire, IL
http://www.sub5century.org/

9 September: Harmon Hundred
The 43rd annual non-competitive scenic ride through southern Wisconsin. Ride options of approximately 25, 50, 62, 75 and 100 miles on quiet country roads.
Wilmot, WI
http://www.wheelmen.com/harmon.htm

23 September: North Shore Century
The North Shore Century offers incredibly scenic biking. You’ll experience luxurious neighborhoods, view unique architectural treasures, pedal down tranquil tree-lined streets and feel the refreshing breezes of Lake Michigan. Open it up in the flat to rolling countryside between Chicago and Wisconsin. The 100-mile ride is what this event is famous for. For those looking for a more leisurely day out on the bike with the opportunity to see some of the most architecturally impressive homes, choose from 70-, 62-, 50- or 25-mile rides.
Evanston, IL
http://www.evanstonbikeclub.org/nsc/

30 September: Apple Cider Century
Apple Cider Century (ACC) is an annual one-day 15, 25, 37, 50, 62, 75 or 100 mile bicycle tour of the orchards, forests and wine country in and around Three Oaks, Michigan. It is a recreational and social tour for bicyclists.
Three Oaks, MI
http://www.applecidercentury.com/

TBD October: Bike the Ridge
Bicyclists may ride on a 2-mile stretch of Ridge Avenue, from Howard Street to Church Street. The event kicks off at 9am with Mayor Elizabeth B. Tisdahl leading riders from the intersection of Ridge Avenue and Howard Street. Children are encouraged to decorate their bikes in advance. Bike-related activities are plentiful!
(847.448.8266)

Tip #1 – Tune-up

The first place to start is by making sure your bike is properly tuned up. A simple eyeball and drop test will tell you if it’s time to have your bike professionally serviced. For the eyeball test, look to see if the derailleurs, drive train, and brake systems have accumulated a lot of buildup. Cleaning and lubing the bike will make a world of difference in how it performs. For the drop test, lift your bike four or five inches off the ground and drop it on the tires. If you hear a lot of clanging when it hits the ground, that means some of the parts are loose and it’s definitely time for a tune-up.

To get your bike road ready, Higher Gear offers the following types of tune-up services:

• Race Check: Includes a full review of the bike, checking and adjusting the brakes and gears, and fully lubing the bike. No wash included.
• Standard Tune-up: Includes wheel truing, checking and adjusting the brakes and gears, removing everything that touches the chain (e.g., cogs, derailleurs, crank, chains, etc.), making necessary adjustments, and completely washing the bike.
• Deluxe Tune-up: Includes everything in the standard tune-up, as well as full removal of the drive train, cleaning it in a solvent tank, and a bottom bracket overhaul.

Learn more about Higher Gear’s services and how we can help you tune up your bike.

Tip #2 – New Wheelset

Another way to prepare for the spring riding season is to upgrade your wheelset. While a new set of wheels might not change your life, the difference it makes is remarkable. That’s because wheel technology continually progresses, which in turn improves cycling performance. For instance, rotational weight advancements help you climb and accelerate better. In addition, bearings and hubs in many aftermarket wheels are superior to those that come standard with new bikes. The minor change of upgrading your wheels not only makes a major improvement in the quality of your ride, but it’s also considerably less than a new bike altogether.

Higher Gear offers such leading brands as Easton, Mavic, and Reynolds wheelsets for you to consider. One model that we’re particularly excited about is the Easton EA90 SLX. Perfect for any ride or race, the EA90 SLX features all the dependability and durability that are the hallmarks of Easton products, as well as a featherweight design. Wicked light at just 1.398 grams, these wheels are 61 grams lighter than the previous model.

Find out more about the difference wheels can make.

Tip #3 – Mindful Riding

There’s nothing more discouraging than realizing in March how much your speed has fallen from your peak last July and August, unless of course you’ve been training on CompuTrainers all winter and you’re eager to find out how you’ve improved on the open road. Spring is the time to determine your goals for the new season and build your training plan around them:

- Adding cycling to your workout routine at least twice a week? Check our calendar for our weekly rides. And ladies, check out our Women Cycling Program.
- Planning to do a supported ride or a charity ride? The MS 150 Tour de Farms is June 23 and the Wrigley Field Road Tour is August 19. In addition, there are many supported rides throughout the state of Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
- Road racing or cyclocross? Check Chicago Bike Racing, Wisconsin Cycling Association, or Michigan Bicycling Association for the full calendar. Our calendars will also be featuring the races that our team members will be participating in. This year again, we will be participating in the Cyclocross Series in the fall — but we won’t talk about it until September. 

Tell us your goals and your plans, and we’ll add it to Higher Gear’s calendar so other Higher Gearheads can find you.

Also, consider getting up to speed with coached CompuTrainer sessions, which are challenging intervals that push your maximum threshold and thereby improve your cardiovascular capacity, your RPM levels, and ultimately your power output.  Productive intervals are challenging to execute around Chicagoland, so keep CompuTraining in mind. Learn more about the benefits of CompuTraining.

These three tips should have you ready for a great spring. Stop by either Higher Gear location, and we’ll be happy to talk more in-depth on any of these options. Have a great season!