Building the ultimate commuter bike with what’s in your garage

I have seen many people put off using a commuter bike because they felt they didn't have the right bicycle, not realizing it was already in their garage.

I have used a commuter bike almost exclusively for the past twenty years. In that time, I have seen many people put off commuting by bicycle because they felt they didn't have the right bike. While the right gear is important, many don't realize that the right equipment is closer than they think. Take a look at how I would build the perfect bike for commuting. It may surprise you how close it might be to that bike hanging in your garage.

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Fun memories and spectacular views on the Mesabi Trail Tour

Join old and new friends on the Mesabi Trail Tour for the most fun you can have on two wheels. The 2024 Great River Energy Mesabi Trail Tour returns on August 10th with five fun distances for your next bike adventure. Choose from 5 different routes – 12, 26, 46, 58, or 70 miles. All routes travel out and back on Mesabi Trail from one start/finish location in Buhl Park, Buhl, MN. 

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Central Minnesota mountain bike trails can add fun throughout the year

In Central Minnesota, you will find an extensive network of single-track and easy-to-moderate mountain bike trails to enjoy in spring, summer, Fall, or Winter. Explore the following list, with many state, regional, and city parks that maintain off-road trails to provide riders at every skill level with a fun experience. Whether seeking a serene roll or a challenging thrill, there’s no shortage of mountain bike trails to explore in Minnesota. When planning that next adventure in the Heartland, here are several trail systems to choose from.

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Bike tune-up tricks for better cycling performance

Do you want your bike to go faster, ride more effortlessly, and shift smoother after your annual bike shop check-up? Here are four relatively simple tune-up tasks that don't require any special knowledge or tools, and you should see a long-lasting improvement in your bikes performance:

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Searching for back pain causes and finding a solution biking

No bicycle discomfort is as debilitating as back pain. Luckily, back pain is usually caused by a few, simple to fix issues.

Over the past quarter-century, I have helped many riders get going on their bikes without back pain. I've been lucky to see the life-changing power of proper posture while riding a bicycle. I have also seen riders walk away from cycling due to simple discomforts and not understanding the reason. No discomfort is as debilitating as back pain. Luckily, back pain is usually caused by a few easy-fix issues. These issues manifest themselves in lower back pain and upper back pain. See more on some causes and simple fixes to enjoy cycling again.

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‘Rock-N-Roll the Lakes’ bike ride in Southern Minnesota is back

One of the newest bike rides in Minnesota may add to your summer fun

As the hometown of rock-n-roll icon Eddie Cochran, as well as Marion Ross (also known as Mrs. C from Happy Days), Albert Lea, MN, knows how to rock! You’re also likely to spot one of the many eagles, pelicans, and countless other birds and wildlife that live in the area when riding around the local lakes. If you like a beat to your pedal stroke, this year, on August 10th, Albert Lea, MN, will again host the Rock n' Roll the Lakes. Families and friends of all ages will enjoy this fun bike tour around the scenic lakes with food and music along the way!

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Explore Minnesota’s bike skills parks and pump tracks

Riding in a bike skills park or on a pump track is a fun and easy way to learn the technical skills needed for better mountain bike handling. These parks typically consist of a circuit course of rollers, banked turns (berms), and features designed to be entirely ridden by a rider. The term "pumping," by up and down body movements, generates momentum instead of pedaling or pushing. It was initially designed for the mountain bike and BMX scene, and now, due to concrete constructions, it is also used by skateboarders, roller skaters, and other similar activities. Pump tracks are relatively simple and cater to various rider skill levels. Here in Minnesota, you will find many options, we have listed in this artcle.

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With these tips, wood ticks won’t haunt your next outdoor adventure

Unless you enter the annual Woodtick Races in Cuyuna, MN,  on June 8th, these bloodthirsty wood ticks are annoying and could be hazardous to your health. Especially if you are biking or hiking on trails through the woods or in tall grass. Always take note as you enjoy your outdoor adventures. These little critters, especially if they are the deer tick species, can be nasty with disease. Like the wood tick, the deer tick also lurks in any natural wilderness setting. However, they are small as a freckle, have tiny black legs, and you may find them loaded with disease-causing pathogens or Lyme Disease.

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