Fast & Furious Friday - SPECIALIZED SECTEUR SPORT

So you finally remembered the joy that riding a bicycle brought to you from your younger days and you want to get back into the sport again.  You don't want to spend top dollar for a carbon race rig because you don't know how much riding your busy schedule will allow for.  We have the perfect bike for you at a very reasonable price - The SPECIALIZED SECTEUR SPORT:

Perfect for a Gran Fondo or epic weekend ride, the Secteur Sport's Endurance Road Geometry, FACT carbon fork with vibration-absorbing Zertz, and shaped tube sets delivers a ride that's stable, smooth, and quick. The upgraded wheelset and 9-speed Shimano Sora compact drivetrain add efficiency and reliability to any road adventure.

• Lightweight, A1 Premium Aluminum, smooth-welded, butted frame features hydroformed, shaped seatstays with Zertz for great vertical compliance and a confident ride
• Specialized FACT carbon fork with Zertz provides predictable steering and smooth handling
• AXIS Classic wheels balance weight and strength; fitted with Specialized Espoir Sport tires for a smooth ride
• Specialized Comp shallow drop alloy bar for serious performance; wrapped with non-slip Specialized Roubaix tape for vibration damping
• Never miss a critical shift with Shimano Sora STI shifters

As today's technology improves the entry level drive-trains are more reliable and lighter than their predecessors so you should feel comfortable knowing this bike will last you many seasons with proper care.

MSRP: $1,000.00

Stop by the shop for more information - we are here until 6:00pm today and tomorrow.
Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic March 12th is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale! In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Travel By Bike Thursday - GUNNAR SPORT

Sport

The Miles Bring Smiles! For some people, it’s more about miles than it is the miles per hour. Yet they still want the lightness and performance of a great steel bike. This is where the Sport shines. Its upright riding position, longer wheelbase and more stable steering makes the miles a pleasure to savor. And when the weather deteriorates, you’re ready, thanks to our 57mm reach brake design that provides you room for fenders and 28C tires. Rear rack mounts give you the freedom to carry lunch, a laptop, or a weekend’s worth of whatever – plenty for commuting, supported tours, randonneuring or credit card touring. We offer sizes all the way up to 68cm so just about everyone can enjoy a great ride. With a tubeset light enough to dance but solid enough to give you confidence, you’ll be able to take the climbs with ease and the descents without fear. Our stainless steel vertical dropouts keep your wheel in line and never rust – one more feature that makes the Sport a great investment.

Welcome to Travel By Bike Thursday and the Gunnar Sport bike.  Gunnar is an American company and builds a great bike.  We have the Sport with a 105 build that is regularly $3150.00 on sale for $2450.00  Sure it is not an entry level touring/commuting bike but if you want a bike that you will keep for a lifetime then this is quite a deal.

Stop by the shop for more information - we are here until 8:00pm today.

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic March 12th is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale! In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Bike Industry News

All-City has two update Disc Models - The Macho King and Nature Boy Disc Bikes.  They are highlighted in the FOLLOWING ARTICLE.  As an owner of a Single Speed Nature Boy these bikes are out of this world awesome, come from a great design background, and can be ordered in for you by Tom's Pro Bike.



As we stated in past blogs Fabian Cancellara is prepping for a run at the One Hour Record and here is an INTERVIEW and ARTICLE if you want to hear his thoughts on the attempt.



45NRTH is coming out with a Dillinger 5 for your fat bike.  It will be available with studs or without.  They are a great tire from all of the reviews I have read but a bit pricey.  If you are looking for studded protection on the fat bike this is the tire to go with!


Amgen Tour of California route has been announced.  This year the route goes North to South and looks like it has some great scenery on the routes it has chosen.  I would love to see the Mount Diablo climb and Thousand Oaks finish because of the topography but all look to be challenging as always.



Everyone is talking about the cobbles coming back to the Tour de France and everyone is setting up early season training rides in the area to test equipment for the upcoming stage.  Maybe once the weather breaks we should all meet downtown and do some cobble rides so we can understand what the big boys are going to be going through come July!

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic March 12th is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale! In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Triathlon/TT Tuesday - MISCELLANEOUS GEAR INFORMATION

Just want to remind everyone that we are still running the Cervelo Wheel Upgrade special at Tom's Pro Bike.  On all remaining 2012 & 2013 Cervelo P2 & P3 inventory you get a free wheel upgrade.  Check out the link for more information and check out the great deals that are being offered on old inventory!




Here is some information on one of the more popular aero wheels that you can purchase for your Triathlon/TT Bike from Reynolds. 



Contemplating getting into triathlons but don't want to invest in a new bike just yet?  Here is a guide to help you convert your road bike to a triathlon ready bike.  Stop by Tom's for more information, a proper fit, and the installation of your new gear.  It is a less expensive way to get faster!  Want an easy to find more speed?  Get stronger on the bike by just riding more.  You can still sign up for some of our Winter Race Series events before the weather breaks.

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale! In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Mountain Bike Monday - SPECIALIZED ROCKHOPPER COMP 29

Today we are going to show off a solid entry level Hardtail 29'er Mountain Bike because possibly you have been contemplating joining our upcoming training group for the XTerra Syracuse Triathlon in August.  Or maybe you are just wanting to do some great trail riding around our local area trails at Sprague Brook, Hunters Creek, or Ellicottville.  You might even be contemplating the Single Track Race Series at Sprague Brook this coming Spring/Summer?  For all those tasks your one bike could be the Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29:

The Rockhopper is a time-tested trail riding hardtail built for cruising fire roads and slicing through singletrack. Equipped with Tektro 2 hydraulic disc brakes and a RockShox XC28 suspension fork featuring lockout, the Rockhopper Comp combines performance with value in a package every rider will appreciate.

• Fully butted A1 Premium Aluminum 29er frame with ORE downtube for a lighter, more compliant and durable bike
• RockShox XC28 fork features TurnKey hydraulic damping, lockout, alloy steerer tube, and externally adjustable rebound for plush and lightweight trail performance
• Custom forged alloy, 10-speed XC crankset offers lightweight and durable performance
• Tektro Draco hydraulic disc brakes/levers with Light Wave rotors create increased control and superior stopping power for more confident braking
• SRAM X5 10-speed rear derailleur makes shifts super crisp and efficient

MSRP $1150.00.  For more information stop by the shop and check out our Mountain Bike inventory!

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale!  In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Fast & Furious Friday - FELT AR4

Today we are highlighting a 11-speed Carbon Race Bike from Felt - the AR4:

Our wind tunnel testing has proven that the aerodynamic shaping of our UHC Performance MMC carbon fiber in the AR4 will save you seconds when you’re alone and wattage inside the pack. Shimano Ultegra 11-speed components and Shimano RS31 wheels mean this bike will redefine your ideas about reliable performance.

WIND TUNNEL:  This product directly benefited from advanced computer design work using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) software from CD-Adapco as well as extensive wind tunnel testing to make them as aerodynamically efficient and technologically advanced as possible.

For more information on the Felt AR4 or any other road bike stop by the shop or give us a call to set up a fitting appointment.

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule! Our first Maintenance Clinic is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

S-WORKS 2014 Spring Clearance Sale!  In-Stock Merchandise only!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Travel By Bike Thursday - CALIFORNIA'S LOST COAST

One of the benefits of writing the blog for Tom's Pro Bike is that I get to do a lot of research and somehow someway I always come across rides that just blow my mind and push my dream button.  It all started with following the Tour Divide Ride years back and it was just rekindled by a photo documentary and write up of touring California's Lost Coast.

I was a benefactor a couple of years ago of a great ride from Seattle, Washington to Oakland, California for work.  I saw most of the Oregon Coast and even part of Northern California but none of it was on the Lost Coast and now I have my next dream in place.

That is a picture of me and my rig at Seaside, Oregon just 2 days into the ride.  The weather is always unpredictable in this part of the country and the great thing about riding North to South is that if the weather is nice out you have a tail wind pushing you along.



Specialized released the AWOL this year and this is the perfect bike for a tour like the Lost Coast.

The above picture is of the Comp and runs $1,950.00 MSRP.  For more information on the AWOL or any other touring bike, how to fit out your bike for touring, or to just talk about bike touring dreams stop by the shop.

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!  Our first Maintenance Clinic is now open for registration HERE.

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Bike Industry News

Mark Renshaw is returning to Mark Cavendish's team and this is his 2014 S-Works Venge to help him lead out the Missile on his runs into the finish line.  Click on the above link for more information and pictures of this beautiful bike.



Speaking of leading here is an update on the Paris-Roubaix field that is going to challenge Spartacus this year.  The directors are expecting more GC contenders than in years past because of the addition of cobbles to the Tour de France this summer.  That will just make an awesome race that much more enjoyable to watch!



Fi'zi:k has a new saddle out:  Volta Road Saddle and here is a link to a Write-Up on it and a Review of it.  Fi'zi:k is one of the top saddles out there and if you are looking to make a change check out Tom's inventory of saddles.  We are sure to have one that will make your rides more comfortable and more efficient!



For the mountain bikers out there worried about pinch flats or running too high of a pressure:  Check out this Dual Chamber Rim by Sytace and tire system by Schwalbe.  Check out the article for more information on this upcoming technology to help alleviate the problem of pinch flats at lower pressure or rim damage.
 
Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!

Don't forget if you are contemplating the XTerra Syracuse to let us know if you are interested in joining a training team at Tom's as well.

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/ 

Triathlon/TT Tuesday - XTerra Syracuse Training Group

In my Internet browsing I came across an interesting posting from a Syracuse area post about XTerra returning to Western/Central New York August 17th.  The next day I had a whole day of travel out west and I had a brilliant idea and now it is up to you to respond.

Tom's Pro Bike XTerra Syracuse Training Group

What we need first of all is to find out if there is enough interest to support this little endeavour.

What is required of you is to let us know via the comments, facebook, google +, or a call to the shop that you are interested in joining a training group.

My idea is as follows:

We do the Tuesday Night Single Track Race Series at Sprague Brook that runs from May 20th through June 24th at 6:30pm.  That will put us just under 8 weeks to the actual race day and then we can continue to meet at Sprague Brook on Tuesday nights for a brick workout which would be a loop on the single track followed by a 1/2 loop run.

Swim workouts would have to take place on your own outside of this time and, of course, additional training as well.  There might be a possibility of some Sunday afternoon training sessions at Sprague Brook also.

For more information on the event here is the REGISTRATION LINK.  They are also having a stand alone 10k and 20k trail race that morning as well and to get the whole family involved there is a CHILDREN'S EVENT.  Also there is a RELAY OPTION for the triathlon if you want to put a team together to tackle the event.

Tom's Pro Bike has a wide selection of mountain bikes that would be quite capable of handling this event so stop by the shop and check out our inventory.  As I said above the key is to find out if there is enough interest in putting this group together.

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!
Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Mountain Bike Monday - FAT BIKING IN ONTARIO

Yesterday was race day in Port Colborne, Ontario at The Frostbike 2014 edition.  Tom Seiler and Bill Graves drove up and were supported and cheered on by Shirley Carnall.  The race had a Fat Bike division and as you can see from the picture there were an abundance of regular mountain bikes around as well.

The Lynskey Stratus and Surly Pugs Op performed as well as can be expected under the guidance of two older aged cyclists.  We will blame the last wave start for slower than expected finish times but at the end of the day some great friends were made, good food was eaten, and bikes were ridden in February in Western New York (Ontario).

Here we are preparing the rigs for the race start.  The conditions were ideal on our test rides but as the 90+ cyclists made their way around the course snow softened and the going got a lot tougher.  Spills occurred, some walking took place, and the finish was there before we knew it.  We were treated to a great bowl of chili and good camaraderie afterwords as well.  This is what makes mountain bike racing and especially in the winter so special!

If you are looking for a chance to ride in all of this beautiful snow you really need to look at a Fat Bike.  They are a great way to enhance your winter riding and to be honest with you, your bike handling skills will increase 10 fold so when you are out on your summer group rides or training rides you won't be doubting the skills to stay with the pack!

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Fast & Furious For The Ladies - Specialized Amira Comp

If you are in the market for a new bike this season ladies, a great starting point is the Specialized Amira Comp:

For women who live to compete—whether it's a local crit or a city-line sprint with the weekend group—the Amira Comp offers a light, stiff FACT carbon frame with women's-tuned geometry for optimal fit and performance, plus lightweight, FSA crank, high-value Shimano Ultegra components, and Fulcrum S5 wheels.

• FACT 8r carbon frame uses Women's Performance Geometry and carbon layup, with OSBB, plus integrated, tapered headtube to create a light, stiff and fast ride
• FACT full-carbon monocoque fork with a tapered 1-1/8" to 1-3/8" headset for strength and precision steering
• Race-ready Fulcrum S5 wheels are fast, light, and strong for high-speed racing and training
• FSA Gossamer Pro BB30 crank is stiff and light for excellent power transfer, with 50x34 configuration for efficiency on any terrain; paired with Shimano drivetrain for simple, intuitive shifting
• Women's ergonomic alloy handlebar delivers superior fit, comfort, stiffness and strength
• Specialized Body Geometry Oura Comp Gel women's saddle features light, durable, hollow Cr-Mo rails for all-day riding efficiency and comfort

With full Ultegra 11 Speed components and a Carbon Frame you will not be looking at upgrades to make this a fast and comfortable ride for years to come.  The MSRP on this model is $2,950.00 and there are other models to chose from.

For more information on this or any other bike stop by the shop or give us a call to set up a fitting appointment.  A great ride starts with a great fit!

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/

Bike Industry News

I always appreciate when they post pictures and write ups of what the pros are riding.  Today we are highlighting a post on the Specialized CruX S-Works of Cody Kaiser.  You can see the SRAM gear all over it and I just love the design work on the frame.  This looks like a fun bike to ride!



Bike Radar runs a weekly post on Friday with some upcoming new gear entering the market.  You can read more on their selected items at THIS LINK.



Davis Phinney won the first ever Dubai Tour event recently and has high aspirations for the upcoming classics season and the Tour de France.



More information on how SRAM's recall of their Hydraulic Road Brakes are working out and how they plan on correcting everything can be found HERE.

And to wrap up the day check out the picture of the "Clown" riding the "Clown Bike" - this is for Jon who used to call my Mukluk a clown bike!

Tentative EVENT SCHEDULE is up at the website. Check out our upcoming 2014 events and pre-plan your schedule!

Tom's Pro Bike Service
3687 Walden Avenue
Lancaster, New York 14086
Phone: (716)651-9995
E-Mail Us: tom@tomsprobike

http://www.tomsprobike.com/