Making Tracks Cycles - Blog

Spring is finally here!

2010-02-25T03:53:00.000-08:00

Spring is here! Yes! We are now carrying Giro, Bell, and Easton components! Giro helmets should be in stock in about a week? If not sooner. Still waiting for Pearl Izumi...someone in their office has evidently dropped the ball! Anyhow...we are submitting our dealer app to Cannondale! Just have to fill out all the paper work...and I love paper work...(yeah right). Things are picking up nicely, and I am feeling better! I even went out to the Eagle Bike Park today and played hooky! (Only after I picked up our espresso beans from Dawson Taylor) So I did work a little this morning! I will keep you all updated!

Ride On! Get your bike in before the Spring Rush sets in!!!!!!

Winter Training Nights

2009-10-14T20:02:00.000-07:00

Hello all!

Sorry for the long break of no blogs... Starting the last week in October, we will begin our winter training nights. There will be 3 Redline IC70 trainers for use and a couple rear wheel trainers for use. You may bring your own trainer, and make sure to bring your bike as well. We will supply the Training DVD. Bring your A-Game...Cause these training videos will kick your butt! Stay tuned...I will update the dates and times very soon. Just waiting for our trainers to come in!

Chris

Bicycle, Coffee Talk, Narrow minds....

2009-03-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

Well,

We are done with the Espresso section. It took allot of work, and we still have more work to do. But I do not feel satisfied with what we have accomplished. I'll feel better when things pick up! On another note:

An implementation of a bicycle path or trail system would greatly improve the livability of Ontario. But certain city officials believe otherwise. Heaven forbid that there be something healthy to do for family's in a city. We just feel like there can be more to be offered in this town. We hope the Officials of this town realize that the youth are the future. And we should nurture EVERYTHING they do, not just organized sports. This should apply to motocross, bmx, skateboarding, mountain biking, road biking...etc.

We have been asked over and over again, are you doing a Jolts and Juice? The answer is No! We created Sag Wagon Espresso for the Cyclist of Ontario and surrounding area's. Jolts has really good coffee, and we will strive to make ours every bit as good as theirs. But we are not trying to compete directly with them. If you want a good cup, and your on that side of town...stop in and get your fix. I have wanted to create a Bicycle/Espresso shop for the past 2 years. And now we can do it. Did certain people along the way influence this? Yes, all ideas start somewhere. Is it odd for some? Yes, you may not grasp the concept of what we are trying to create, but with time hopefully you will.

We really wanted to create a hang out for the cyclists before and after group rides. And to generate a little extra income during the winter months. And that is where the drive-thru comes in handy. We are coming up on our 3rd year of New Ownership! July 1, 2009 will be our 3 year anniversary! We are trying to create a unique bicycle shop in this area that will compare with no other.

We are also using Dawson Taylor espresso beans. They are located in Boise Idaho, and I believe that they have the best quality beans around. Roasted fresh daily! Remember, We are open! The drive thru is open! So what's your excuse? Support your LBS! and your LCS!

About a Week away from being able to serve Espresso!

2009-02-08T14:18:00.000-08:00

Here is the rest of the progress so far. Every thing is finally done. We have been training and just waiting for final Inspections. People are already starting to hang out in the Espresso section. Its really taking on alot of character! Stay tuned for more info as things progress. Here are a few pictures for your vewing pleasure!

Chris

Almost there!

2009-01-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Well, its been awhile on this project. I thought it would be fast and simple. Man was I wrong. I have been working day and night on the expansion. Here are some pictures on the progress. This will show all the work that had to be done to make this possible. In the pictures you will see that a hole had to be dug from one half of the shop to the other. I had to cut through the concrete 40'. And remove 4 thousand pounds of concrete. The first load weighed in at 2,200. And I still have another load to take when the snow melts.

Then the dirt had to be removed. That sucked! In the pics below you can see the chaos! This all had to be done to install the floor drains in the kitchen area. The plumbing is now in, and I have the front counter in. I just got all the sheet rock up, taped and textured last night. The paint will go on this evening. I will update the photo's soon. We now have to get the fixtures on the plumbing and then the training will begin! Stay tuned!

The boy's are at it! The creation of our mascot!

2008-12-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

Well, thanks to my good friends Vick Machuca and Joe Cheatham @ North Verde Auto Salvage. http://www.northverdeautosalvage.com/. We started our Mascot project for the Espresso section. Joe hooked us up with this 1971 VW Bus to make some booths out of. It may look rough right now, but you are going to be stoked when its done! Keep your eyes peeled...We are almost there! Here are some pictures of last nights cutting party! LOL! Thanks for the pics Joe!

09 Redline IC70 Trainer Sale!

2008-12-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

MSRP $1250.00 SALE PRICE $999.99

IC-70 INDOOR TRAINER

An indoor trainer with “true cycling feel.” When you can’t get outside and ride, the Redline Indoor Cycle “IC70” is the answer. With whisper quiet belt drive and magnetic resistance, no other trainer combines these features to mimic the outdoor riding experience into such a well designed package. The built-in computer is included and features a large easy to read LCD display and can be used both wireless or not.

FEATURES:

+ Ultra smooth and efficient magnetic resistance eliminates inconsistent pedaling motion and unwanted noise from traditional friction type resistance systems.
+ Maintenance free, extremely quiet, clean and smooth belt driven flywheel.
+ Computer is equipped with 8 individual functions and large easy to read display: Ride Time, Speed/Cadence – Current, Average and Maximum, Calories Consumed, Heart Rate - Current, Average and Maximum. Heart rate pick-up sensors on handlebars, or go wireless with chest strap.
+ Equipped with dual option pedals, choose between SPD clipless or standard toe clips and straps.
+ “Freewheeling” flywheel offers true bicycling feel and flexibility during training along with added safety.
+ “Perfect Fit” frame design incorporates micro adjusting handlebar and saddle heights, with uniquely designed seat and head angles which allows proper pedal orientation within the rider compartment at any setting.
+ Wide range of rider fit, 28.5” to 39.5” inseam.
+ Multi position handlebars offer riders many choices during your workout, and include integrated heart rate pick-up sensors.

CONSTRUCTION:

+ Durable power coat paint finish ensures long lasting protection. + Durable industrial grade sealed cartridge bearings, hi-strength forged steel cranks.
+ Optimum flywheel weight; light enough for effortless cool down cycles yet still offers smooth pedaling cadence at all speeds and workout levels
+ Front Flywheel design helps keep overall footprint to a minimum, saving precious space when needed. Base dimensions – 25.5” width, 40.5” length. Stable, wide base with easy to level feet.
+ The IC70 is transportable with built-in wheels for moving.

Working Late

2008-12-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been staying late every night trying to get the shop looking good for the Christmas holiday's. I have also been working on the Espresso section. We hit a snag with getting a good bid on the Plumbing. But Noa Towner's husband Eric, from Towner's Plumbing stepped up to the plate with an awesome bid! He should start the job Dec 15. I am trying to get this completed before the end of December. But it all depends on the Inspectors getting the inspections done in a timely manner. If your in the area stop in and say hi, cause it gets pretty lonely in the shop during the winter months! Just think...In January you can come in and order an Espresso based drink and check out the latest cycling gear! Ihope to see you soon!

-Chris

Defenition of a Sag Wagon

2008-12-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

A sag wagon is a support vehicle for cyclists. As a general rule, cyclists on tour call the vehicle a sag wagon, while racers prefer the term “broom wagon.” In either case, the sag wagon can be a vital part of the team which support cyclists along their journey. On long tours and trips, many cyclists grow quite attached to the sag wagon and its drivers, thanks to the comfort that the sag wagon provides.
The origins of the term “sag wagon” are a topic for debate. Some cyclists believe that it is an acronym for “Support and Gear” or “Support Aid Group.” Others suggest that it may be related to distressed or weary cyclists “sagging”, or trailing behind the pack. In either case, the sag wagon can be a lifesaver for cyclists, since it carries everything from water to medical supplies. Many of the staff on board are cyclists themselves, sitting out an event for various reasons or simply enjoying the opportunity to help out.
Usually, the touring sag wagon takes the form of a large, sturdy van or truck. It is designed to hold food for the cyclists, along with camping gear and other equipment. The sag wagon may drive ahead to the night's designated camping spot, so that the cyclists are welcomed to a fully set up camp when they arrive. In other cases, the sag wagon trails slightly behind, keeping an eye on the cyclists and picking up stragglers who may need a brief break from the open road.
Using a sag wagon for a bicycling tour allows the tour group to include a wide range of cyclists at varying levels of physical condition. The wagon can carry the bulk of the cyclists' luggage, making the bikes much lighter and more easy to handle. It also brings along a sense of home, and since a van can carry far more food than a bicyclist can, it usually indicates that good supplies will be less spartan than they might be on an unsupported trip.
In racing, the broom wagon specifically seeks out cyclists who may need medical attention or a rest. The broom wagon meanders through the course route slowly, making sure that stragglers are cared for and meeting the needs of cyclists who may need anything from more water to a lift, so that they can withdraw from the race if they are experiencing physical problems. Staff on the broom wagon usually have medical training so that they can evaluate cyclists in distress.

Real Theater Add

2008-11-18T22:32:00.000-08:00

If your at the Real Theater in Ontario, keep an eye out for our Add.

Sag Wagon Espresso

2008-11-17T23:40:00.000-08:00

Well its official, winter is coming! And when that happens bicycle shops usually slow down. So to combat this, we are adding an Espresso section with a drive thru window. So in the spirit of Cycling we decided to name it Sag Wagon Espresso. A Sag Wagon is the support vehicle for cyclists on long riding events. They are there to help cyclists fix their bicycles during the ride. We thought that this would only be appropriate to name our new endeavor after the guy's and gal's that opt out of the ride only to help their fellow cyclist when they are in a jam. Espresso and drip coffee do the same for people every day. It can help you out of that jam, and get you motivated and ready to tackle the day. Stay tuned for more on Sag Wagon development ... I will keep everyone posted as we build away!

-Chris