Shoe Week Saturday Wrap Up

Shoe week is coming to an end and just as a recap of what we highlighted this past week I will do a small daily recap with links to the actual days page so if you need more information you can find it there.  The important part to take from all of this is that there are generally 3 levels of shoes.

#1 The top of the line shoe which is going to have carbon soles and be very stiff so that you are not losing any power transfer in the pedal stroke.  To the average bicyclist this is not a priority just like the weight of the bike.  But to a racer that needs to have constant high power output - they are looking for a shoe that does not flex which causes you to lose power.  These shoes are generally 3 hole cleat compatible so you are looking for a pedal that takes that type of cleat - LOOK, KEO, TIME are a few.

#2 The middle of the line shoe which will generally have a combo sole which will give it a higher stiffness factor but not as high as their top of the line shoe.  If you are a Cat 4/5 or Recreational racer this is the shoe that I would recommend for you.  They will last a long time and should be very comfortable.

#3 Entry level shoe which will have the lowest stiffness factor but for recreational cyclists or beginners they are perfect.  They don't have a high price point, can be raced in, and are still very good shoes that will last a long time.

Which ever level you are looking for Tom's has a great selection for you.

Monday we highlighted Mountain Bike Shoes:





Tuesday we highlighted TT/Triathlon Shoes:





Wednesday was a bike industry review of new gear coming out:



Thursday we highlighted Commuting/Touring Shoes:




Friday we highlighted Road Racing Shoes:





Have a great Easter and remember we have extended hours.  Once this weather clears up we will be doing rides Sunday and Monday from the shop and if there is enough interest once the trails dry up Sprague Brook Wednesday night rides will occur.  Stop by and see us with any shoe, accessories, or bike questions!

REMEMBER YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR SPRING 50!

ALSO MAY 9TH SERVICE CLINIC!

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Fast & Furious Friday - RACE SHOES

Today we are going to highlight our road racing shoes from Specialized.  Our first shoe on tap is their top of the line Specialized SWorks Road shoe $400 MSRP.

Let's see what Specialized has to say about this shoe:

The S-Works redefines how a road shoe should perform. Our lightest, stiffest Body Geometry shoe features unprecedented fit, comfort, and efficiency for racers in the Pro Peloton or riders who want the pinnacle of performance.

• New SL2 FACT carbon sole with A-Symmetric engineered design and TorsionBox technology is optimized to create our lightest and stiffest sole yet: 13.0 stiffness index
• Full Body Geometry features in outsole and SL Footbeds combine to reduce hot spots and improve knee/foot alignment
• New lightweight cartridge replaceable Boa® S2 Snap allows on-thefly adjustments for a dynamic fit with stainless steel braided lace; L/R shoe forward rotating to tighten
• Two independent Boa® dials optimize closure in each zone: Top dial locks the ankle and heel down, while mid-foot dial snugs the arch and forefoot
• Minimalist designed Thermobonded upper with adaptive fit is lightweight, durable and brings a superior supple fit
• Open-back lace guides for easy on/off
• Replaceable heel lugs with internally recessed bolts for safety
• 3-bolt cleat pattern fits Shimano SPD-SL, Look, Time, and Speedplay
• Approximate weight: 210g (1/2 pair #42)

Tom bought a pair of these last season and he said this new style is so much better than last years model he purchased a new pair again this season.  Tom has been in this business a long time and has ridden in many different pairs of shoes so I would have to take him at his word for this newly updated SWorks model.





Next up is a very solid middle ground race shoe - the Specialized Expert Road $200.00 MSRP

Let's see what Specialized has to say about this shoe:

Designed with a fit inspired by our S-Works model, this shoe offers performance-enhancing Body Geometry technology, Boa® dial adjustability, and our carbon/glass sole for a great blend of performance and value.

• FACT carbon/glass fiber reinforced outsole is directionally rigid for outstanding power transfer: 8.5 stiffness index
• Performance-enhancing Body Geometry features in the outsole and footbed
• Thermobonded synthetic upper construction for light weight and superior supple fit
• Lightweight Boa® L4 rotary closure and forefoot Velcro strap for on-the-fly tunability and dynamic fit; features a quick-release lace pull
• 3-bolt cleat pattern fits Shimano SPD-SL, Look, Time, and Speedplay
• Approximate weight: 260g (1/2 pair #42)

This is an excellent pair of road racing shoes that will last many season.  It is a little more expensive than the next shoe highlighted but with the carbon/glass outsole it provides more power transfer with a higher stiffness index rating.



Finally is a great entry level shoe for the recreational rider/racer - the Specialized Sport Road $100.00 MSRP

The essential performance and Body Geometry ergonomics of our high-end road shoes in a affordable design that’s perfect for beginning road enthusiasts.

• New injection-molded vented sole is engineered to be stiffer and lighter: 6.0 stiffness index
• Performance-enhancing Body Geometry features in the outsole and footbed
• Offset 3-strap Velcro closure for superior fit
• Supple synthetic upper with mesh venting
• Fits 3-bolt SPD cleat systems
• Approximate weight: 290g (1/2 pair #42)

We have the MSRP listed by each model and if you stop by the shop before 4/5/2013 and mention this blog you will receive 10% off a purchase of one of these styles of shoes.  If you are in the market for a new pair of shoes for the upcoming season you cannot go wrong with one of these Specialized styles based on your entry price point and comfort level.

REMEMBER YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR SPRING 50!

ALSO MAY 9TH SERVICE CLINIC!

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Travel By Bike Thursday - COMMUTER/TOURING SHOES

To continue with our week long posts about shoes, today we are going to cover shoes that work for Commuting/Touring/Casual Riding.  They can be used for racing as well but you will find them substantially heavier than a true race shoe.  The reason for this type of shoe is to make walking comfortable and safe for those who use their bikes as a transportation vehicle.  There is nothing quite as adventurous as walking through a convenience store in a 3 Bolt Shoe and trying to stay upright on polished and smooth floors!  Not that you cannot fall in a 2 Bolt Shoe but it is a little more difficult to pull off.



I am waiting for the weather to break so I can start riding in a pair of Specialized Rime MTB shoes that they are having me review for the blog.  The great thing about these shoes is that they have a Vibram hiking sole so for those times when I am out mountain biking or commuting and I have to walk around or even push my bike up a hill it won't be like walking on ice.  I am really looking forward to trying these shoes out and have to decide if I am going to commute in them or mountain bike in them because I run 2 different pedals in the summer time on my bikes but since I am getting a new mountain bike I think they will work great with that and if they are as good as I am expecting them to be I will get a pair for commuting as well.

Let's see what Specialized has to say about their shoe:

The Rime blends XC performance with All-Mountain/Freeride features. Robust Vibram® rubber sole, durable and protective upper, Boa® dial adjustability, and Body Geometry technology make the Rime the perfect shoe for the modern mountain biker.

• Vibram® rubber outsole for unmatched traction and durability
• Composite midsole plate for efficient cycling, but fl exible enough for walking: 7.0 stiffness index
• Performance-enhancing Body Geometry features in the outsole and footbed
• New S2 Boa® cartridge closure, with improved durability for dirt and ease of use
• Incremental adjustment, braided stainless steel cable and easy 3mm Allen replaceable Boa cartridge system
• Durable synthetic upper is supple fi tting with improved welded reinforcement to handle all-mountain use
• Wrap-style tongue for comfort, secure fit and keeps dirt and mud out
• 2-bolt cleat pattern, compatible with all major MTB pedals
• Approximate weight: 425g (1/2 pair #42)
• Available in size 50

MSRP: $180.00 - these are available by order only right now but we have a pair of 42.5 in stock and on sale.  Stop by and try these on if that is your size and this is the type of shoe you are looking for.



Next up is the Specialized Tahoe shoe which is available in a men's and women's cut if required.  These are touring/commuting shoes and as you can see are lace up.  I would not want to race in a lace up style shoe but for casual riding it doesn't bother me at all and the Velcro closure up top provides some added security of the shoe staying fairly snug to your foot.

Let's see what Specialized has to say:

High performance on-bike or hiking the trail. Durable Vibram® sole adds a new dimension to traction & comfort even in rugged terrain.

• Vibram® rubber outsole for unmatched traction and durability
• Composite midsole plate for efficient cycling, but flexible enough for walking: 6.0 stiffness index
• Performance-enhancing Body Geometry features in the outsole and footbed
• Synthetic upper and air mesh for quick drying and ventilation
• Top strap for secure closure also keeps laces safely out of chainrings
• 2-bolt SPD-style cleat pattern, compatible with all major MTB pedals
• Approximate weight: 400g (1/2 pair #42)

MSRP: $100.00 - these are available by order only right now

If you have any questions on these shoes or any other style stop by the shop, give us a call, or send us an e-mail.  Specialized runs a bit narrower than Shimano for those looking for a little tighter fit.

REMEMBER YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR SPRING 50!

ALSO MAY 9TH SERVICE CLINIC!

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Change It Up Wednesday - BIKE INDUSTRY NEWS

Today is going to be a mish-mash of various information from the cycling world.

First up is a very strange decision that the UCI and USAC came out with concerning with non-sanctioned races.  Basically it says that if you have a license and race in a non-sanctioned race then you are going to be suspended.  Now for a recreational racer like myself I doubt they would really pay any attention but for professional racers that like to do these types of events it is coming down to choosing one over the other.

I prefer the non-sanctioned races because they are generally different than the run of the mill criterium or road races.  The ruling includes races such as Leadville 100 and the Breck Epic Stage Race.  I don't know what either ruling body are trying to prove by having a rule such as this in place.  From the reports I have read it seems as though the professionals are going to skip the sanctioned races and keep Leadville and BreckEpic on their race schedule.



What types of races do you enjoy and would a ruling like this effect how you scheduled future races?



The above picture is of the Cervelo Limited-Run RCA frame.  It comes with a price tag of $10,000 and a limit of 375 manufactured.  The great thing about limited run frames like this is that the manufacturers take technology learned and apply to their other bikes which is a win for the typical customer that is not willing to shell out $10,000 or more for a bike.



For all those commuters out there Predator Frames worked with FSA and DT Swiss to come up with a Single Speed, Disc, Deep Carbon Tubular Wheelset.  The one problem with this setup is that the disc they are using for show purposes was a 2 piece and you are not able to run a 2 piece with BB-7 Brakes - but it is still a sweet looking wheelset!

Specialized is coming out with a new Aero helmet.  It was spotted at the Milan-San Remo Spring Classic and with the new UCI rule saying all equipment used by a pro must be available to us mere mortal humans within 9 months means this should be hitting Tom's Pro Bike by the end of the year - just in time for next seasons race schedule!



For those bad weather riders there is a line of equipment from the Northwest which is known for rain and cold weather called Showers Pass.  They have just come out with a new full length pant called the Skyline.  These look like a great pant and I am going to try and get my hands on a pair to test out and review for anyone that would be interested.  Keep an eye out in future blogs for more information.

Just a reminder that we have an open link to register for the Spring 50 May 19th and also WNYMBA is putting on a Wednesday night mountain bike race 5 week series at Sprague Brook starting May 22nd.  I have signed up for both recently so come join me on the road and the dirt!

Give us a call, send us an e-mail, or stop by the shop for more information on these highlights or other blogs we have posted.  Saturday is looking like Spring might actually happen around here so keep an eye out for group rides!

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

TT/Triathlon Tuesday - SPECIALIZED TRIVENT TRI SHOE

Today we are going to highlight the Specialized Triathlon Shoe Line - Trivent

First up is the Trivent Expert which has a carbon outsole and is a 3-hole shoe for Shimano SPD-SL, Look, Time & Speedplay pedals.  Let's see what else Specialized has to say about this shoe:


Our pro triathletes demanded ultimate ventilation and faster transitions, so we developed the Trivent Expert with performance-enhancing, tri-specific features, temperature-regulating construction, and Body Geometry ergonomics.
* FACT carbon/glass fiber reinforced outsole is directionally rigid for outstanding power transfer: 8.5 stiffness index
* Performance-enhancing Body Geometry contours in the outsole
* Ergonomic, Body Geometry footbed is fully perforated for ventilation and drainage
* Thermobonded construction for a smooth internal lining for "sockless" riding fit and comfort
* Chromed fibers of our FACT carbon outsole act as a heat shield, deflecting road heat even in the hottest riding conditions
* Large heel pull for easy entry and faster shoe changes in transitions
* Arch mounted Launch Clip for flying starts
* Replaceable heel tread with internally recessed bolts
*Supple Micromatrix upper with open-air mesh for maximum ventilation
*3-bolt cleat pattern fits Shimano SPD-SL, Look, Time, and Speedplay
*Approximate weight: 267g (1/2 pair #42)

MSRP: $175.00 and we have a majority of sizes in stock!

BLOG SPECIAL - VALID UNTIL CLOSE OF BUSINESS 3/31/2013 - $165.00 BUT YOU MUST MENTION THIS BLOG POST.

Next up is the Trivent Sport which is a solid entry level tri shoe if you are just starting out or looking to upgrade to a newer shoe!


Packed with all the fit and functionality of our Trivent Expert, combined with an affordable injection composite sole for value-minded or new triathletes. The Trivent Sport delivers on both performance and accessibility.
* New injection-molded vented sole is engineered to be stiffer and lighter: 6.0 stiffness index
* Performance-enhancing Body Geometry features in the outsole and footbed
* Large heel pull for easy entry and faster shoe changes in transitions
* Arch mounted Launch Clip for flying starts
* Tri-specific 2-strap closure with open tongue for ventilation
* Open-air mesh for maximum ventilation
* Fits 3-bolt cleat systems
* Approximate weight: 295g (1/2 pair #42)

MSRP: $100.00 and we have a majority of sizes in stock!

BLOG SPECIAL - VALID UNTIL CLOSE OF BUSINESS 3/31/2013 - $95.00 BUT YOU MUST MENTION THIS BLOG POST.

Stop by the shop and check out our inventory.  We also stock Shimano and some Sidi shoes as well.

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Mountain Bike Monday - SPECIALIZED MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOES

This week we are going to highlight some of our shoes.  With the upcoming season fast approaching it is a good time to get some new shoes and get ready for your rides.  Today we are going to show you the Specialized Expert MTB shoe and the Specialized Sport MTB shoes.

First up is the Expert MTB.  Let's see what Specialized says about their shoe:


The Expert lives up to the World Cup performance level of our Pro shoes, with patented Body Geometry features, but uses an ultra-light, three-strap closure.
Full-length FACT carbon midsole is ultra-light and rigid, with slight fl ex engineered in the toes to reduce heel lift during hike-a-bike sections: 9 stiffness index
Performance-enhancing Body Geometry contours in the outsole and High Performance Footbeds
Durable injection composite, full-foot lugs for confi dent traction
Engineered Micromatrix upper is light, durable and supple fi tting, with welded reinforcement in high-wear panels
Ultra-vented tongue for breathability
2-bolt SPD-style cleat pattern, compatible with all major MTB pedals
Approximate weight: 340g (1/2 pair #42)

MSRP: $180.00 and we have a majority of sizes in stock!

BLOG SPECIAL - VALID UNTIL CLOSE OF BUSINESS 3/31/2013 - $170.00 BUT YOU MUST MENTION THIS BLOG POST.

Next up is the Sport MTB.  Let's see what Specialized has to say about this shoe:

Our classic high-performance, high-value MTB shoe always ranks high with industry editors for its light weight, durability, and Body Geometry ergonomics.

Lightweight injection composite sole with sturdy co-molded lugs for hike-a-bike traction: 5.0 stiffness index

Performance-enhancing Body Geometry contours in the outsole and footbed

New offset 3-strap Velcro closure for superior fit

Supple synthetic upper with mesh vent panels

2-bolt SPD-style cleat pattern, compatible with all major MTB pedals

Approximate weight: 340g (1/2 pair #42)

MSRP: $100.00 and we have a majority of sizes in stock!

BLOG SPECIAL - VALID UNTIL CLOSE OF BUSINESS 3/31/2013 - $90.00 BUT YOU MUST MENTION THIS BLOG POST.

Stop by the shop and check out our inventory.  We also stock Shimano and some Sidi shoes as well.

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

Phone: (716) 651-9995

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

MOUNTAIN BIKE WEEK - SATURDAY WRAPUP

Well it is Saturday and that means it is time to wrap up Mountain Bike Week - we at Tom's hope you had a great week and that you learned something about mountain biking if you are new to the sport.  If you are a veteran of dirt riding we just want you to know that you can now get bikes and accessories for your sport at our newly expanded shop!

Monday we highlighted the Specialized Status - An awesome Downhill bike that will tear up the downhill scene of Whistler or any other destination spot.  If you are looking for a thrill enduring adventure sport there is no lack of excitement on a downhill run!

Tuesday was ladies day and the Specialized Saphire was the bike of the day - If you are looking for a ladies specific race bike for XTerra or other off road racing adventures this bike would definitely fit the bill.

Wednesday we talked about the speciality bikes that are now available through Tom's Pro Bike.  The Specialized P.26 Pro which is a trials bike and the Specialized Crux which is their carbon disc cross bike were both highlighted to give you a feel for the type of bikes that we stock or can order for you.  If you are looking for a specific bike come on in and talk to us and we will do our best to make sure we can obtain that bike for you!

Thursday we highlighted a review of the Specialized Roval Wheel Set that we now stock at Tom's.  If you are looking for a light weight, high end wheel set there is nothing wrong with looking at the Roval line of wheels!

Friday we talked about the benefits of Mountain Biking and concluded that in the end it is just plain FUN besides being a great cross-training activity for your road races.  You can better handling skills, do interval training, and just get more time in the saddle which is never a bad thing.

Have a great weekend and it looks like this weather might be finally breaking so look for posts about upcoming shop rides and events.  Stop by to test ride that bike you have been eyeing since winter came on or just take a look at the shop.  April is going to be a great month around the shop so keep an eye out for some great events coming up.

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/

MOUNTAIN BIKE WEEK - TRAINING BENEFITS

I am not a big stats person but one thing I track is page views on the blog.  I always get a kick out of how much lower Mountain Biking viewings are compared to Triathlon/TT or Road Racing posts.  I believe a lot of it comes from Tom's not have a substantial sales floor prior to the expansion so he focused on race bikes and our customers don't always think of us a mountain bike shop.

Now with the new expansion project complete we have display space for Mountain Bikes and we are working hard to be your Mountain Bike shop along with Triathlon/TT and Road Race bikes and all accessories.

You might be asking yourself what is the benefit to Mountain Biking over Road Training?

My first point would be the views that you can get on a mountain bike over riding paved roads.  Single track, double track, fire roads, or jeep trails take you places that pavement just can't.  I have ridden in Utah, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, and many other states and am amazed at some of the pictures I have been able to take.

Now don't get me wrong because I have ridden along the Pacific Ocean on my road bike and was completely enamored with the beauty of that area and it is paved!  But there is something to being on dirt and riding and just having a great time without having to dodge cars while avoiding trees.

What else can you get from Mountain Biking that you don't from riding on the road?

Bike handling skills!  There is nothing like handling your bike on single track going over obstacles and working hard to clear short steep climbs.  I remember when we were out riding one time before our bike tour along the Underground Railroad and I was going around some traffic and went to get on the sidewalk and the lip of the homes driveway was higher than I had figured on.  My bike was getting ready to go down and with all of the mountain biking I had done I did a quick unclip and stuck my leg out and saved it.  I am 100% sure that only happened because of the riding I had done on trails.  It makes you more aware of your surroundings and exactly how your bike is going to respond in certain situations.

Another point I want to make is about interval training.  As I mentioned above about working hard to clear an obstacle or climb a short steep hill - Mountain Biking provides you ample work on intervals.  It is not a steady state training like road riding and you don't generally go as fast as you do on asphalt but it still can be a great workout and help your overall bike conditioning and road racing as well.

My final point about the benefit of Mountain Biking is that is FUN!  At the end of the day I love riding my bike and I don't care if it is on the road, dirt, or snow - I just want to ride my bike.  But I can tell you I have never come home from getting shredded on dirt and cut and bruised and said wow that was just horrible I am never doing that again!  It is a great time and a great workout.

We have some awesome trails around Western New York and we are planning some Specialized Demo Days this summer at Sprague Brook and are even looking into a Tom's Weekly Group Ride on the local dirt trails this summer if there is enough interest.

Now all you have to do is get your mountain bike tuned up or purchase one and Tom's is your shop to help you out in both areas!  Stop by and check out our inventory or ask some questions.  See you on the trails (as soon as the snow melts ;) )

Tom's Pro Bike Service

3687 Walden Avenue

Lancaster, New York 14086

F: (716)651-0858

mailto:tom@tomsprobike.com

Web Site: http://www.tomsprobike.com/