Category Archives: News

Bike, ski, or walk on water with these ice safety tips

by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking.com

For anyone unfamiliar with the bold north, biking or walking on water is a fun outdoor winter activity when incorporating a few ice safety tips into the adventure. Mother Nature’s temperature swings in the upper Midwest will determine when to venture onto a frozen body of water. From mid to late December through February, riding a bike across a body of frozen water is a regular occurrence. This year, please take note. With above-normal temps so far this year, ice is slow to form. Delaying many of the fun activities here on many of the lakes and streams. Check the ice depth before you venture out!

Along with the proper clothing for a comfortable ride in the winter, here are some ice safety tips you need to know to ensure a safe time pedaling across a lake or stream frozen over.

Ice safety tips – First and foremost, know the thickness of the ice.

There’s no way around it. While many visual cues can help you determine if it is safe to roll out or step onto the ice, the most reliable way is to measure the ice thickness.

There are a few tools you can use to measure the ice. An ice chisel can be stabbed into the ice until it penetrates through to the water. A cordless drill with a wood bit also works well to auger a hole to measure the thickness.

Ice safety tips – What is a safe thickness?

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources states on ice thickness, any ice thickness less than four inches should be avoided at all costs. At four inches, the ice can support bicycling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and walking. At five to seven inches, the ice can sustain the weight of a snowmobile or an ATV, while eight to twelve inches are needed to support a small car’s weight. While these guidelines are generic, and ice conditions vary, the current chart is for newly formed ice. Make sure to read more on thickness before going out there.

Measuring in one place is not enough. Measure several areas (approximately 150 feet apart) to ensure the entire area is safe. Ice thickness can vary, even over a relatively small area—especially over moving water.

Ice safety tips – Assess the area visually.

A visual assessment can help supplement your measurement and help if you rely on someone else’s measurements.

Its a perfect time of the year to jump on a fatty and hit the trail. This pic was taken last year at the Get Phat with Pat event in the Minnesota River Bottoms, in Bloomington, MN.

With safe ice, it’s a perfect time to jump on a fatty and ride across a stream.

Watch for signs of danger like cracks, seams, pressure ridges, dark areas (where the ice is thinner), and slushy areas—even slight slush signals that the icing isn’t freezing at the bottom. This is a tell-tale that the ice is progressively getting weaker.

Ice safety tips – The color of the ice

Check out the color of the ice. Clear, blue, or green ice thicker than four inches should be enough to bike on. White ice typically has air or snow trapped inside, weakening it. Dark ice might indicate that the ice is relatively thin—probably not thick enough for biking or hiking.

The Fresher, the better!

New ice is typically stronger than older ice. The bond between ice crystals decays even in freezing temperatures as time passes. When the spring thaw begins, the ice weakens considerably. Heading out for one last ride across the ice can be tempting, but it is safest to say no. Even if ice fits the measurement criteria, it can still be hazardous.

More suggestions when venturing out on “safe ice.”

Along with knowledge of the thickness of the ice and a visual assessment, here are four more suggestions to help minimize the risk when biking on the ice:

Carry ice picks and a rope
Have a cell phone or personal locator beacon along
Don’t go out alone; tell someone about trip plans and expected return time.
Before heading out, inquire about conditions and known hazards with local experts.

Know the proper rescue techniques.

Anyone doing anything on the ice outdoors should know the ice rescue technique. Kids should be familiar with the protocol, so educate them beforehand. If someone in your party falls through the ice, the first thing to do is call 911. Anyone still on the ice should slowly lie down, distributing their weight over a larger area.

Reach the person in the water using a long-reaching assist— maybe a large stick, a rope, or a ladder if available. The person in the water should be instructed to kick and slowly ease their way out of the water. Once they reach the surface, they should crawl or roll away from the broken ice area.

Anyone on the ice, including the victim and rescuer, should avoid standing up until they are far away from the broken ice. As soon as possible, get the victim into dry clothing and treat them for hypothermia.

Hopefully, soon we can have some fun!

Enjoy the ice safety tips for a safer true North experience!

Quick tips for renting a bicycle when traveling

by John Brown,

Taking your bicycle when you travel is not always possible, but don’t give up on the idea of riding altogether. Renting a bicycle or e-bike is an easy way to experience new places. Plus, it lets you try a new bike you may want to buy when you get home. So, before you travel, here are a few tips to get you going

In the photo above, a visitor to the Twin Cities is being helped by the staff at One Ten Cycles in Mendota Heights, a couple of miles south of the MSP Airport.

Renting a Bicycle At One of Many Bike Shops

As bike trails and paths become more commonplace, bike shops are entering the rental market. Before you travel, find a few area bike shops and call about renting a bicycle. Be sure to ask about both rental fleets (typically made up of basic mountain bikes, cruisers or hybrids) as well as “Demo” bikes. Many shops that don’t rent bikes have demo units to let potential buyers try before buying. The fee for a demo is usually higher than that of a standard rental, but the bicycle quality is also typically higher.

Renting a bicycle outside a bike shop

Renting a Bicycle Consider Rental Companies

In most major cities or tourist destinations, some businesses only rent bikes and e-bikes. Finding one of these companies is as easy as a Google search or asking the hotel you are staying in. Many rental companies have services to deliver a rental bike to the hotel. If you are going to the rental shop, understand they usually operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, so be sure to get there early if you are trying to ride on a busy weekend.

Rental fleet

Or Bike Share Programs

Bike shares are becoming very popular throughout the US and abroad. Companies like BCycle, and Citi bike are a couple of the companies that offer options to rent “as you go.” With tons of locations around the US, bike shares are a great option if you are touring a city. Because you can pick up a bike in one location, explore, and then drop the bike off at another docking station any time of day or night.

Citi Bike docking station

Renting From A Bicycle Touring Company Is Another Option

Many bike tour companies have bike fleets. Tour companies such as Trek Travel and Backroads offer tours around the globe and supply bikes as part of the cost. The benefit of taking a dedicated tour is support. Lodging, Equipment, route, food, and guides are all included in the cost of the trip.

Getting Comfortable

The most important trick to a great bike rental experience is to ensure the bicycle is comfortable. Your own pedals, saddle, and the right size bike are great ways to start.

-Size

If you don’t have a bike, ask for the brand and model of the bike from the rental company. Then, try to find a local bike shop that sells that model. If you stop into the shop and explain your situation, they can tell you what size you ride. As a side benefit, If you like the bike you rented, that local bike shop would be a great place to buy one to keep at home.

-Pedals

If you use clipless pedals, remove them from your bike, drop them in a ziplock bag, store them in your riding shoes, and bring them with you. Once you get your rental bike, have your pedals installed. Having a familiar pedal can go a long way to make a new bike feel like your bike at home.

-Position

Measure your saddle height. Do this by rotating your pedals until a crank arm is in line with the seat tube of your bicycle. Use a tape measure from the top of the saddle to the middle of the pedal (in line with the seat tube). Also, measure the distance from the tip of your saddle to the handlebars and the height of your handlebars. Once you get your rental, ask to adjust it to be as close to your bike’s measurements as possible. Remember that one bike will never fit exactly like another, so close is great.

Key measurements

-Saddle

After measuring the height of your saddle, remove it from your bike and bring it with you. Having the rental company install your saddle on the rental is a nice way to make an unfamiliar bicycle comfortable.

Have fun on your next trip

It’s amazing what you will see and experience on the seat of a bicycle when visiting a new area.

About John Brown, the author

John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit him, and that particular fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. He was starting by sweeping the shop floor while learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see more of John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

Minnesota River bottoms, a fun year-round trail network

by John Brown,

Famous for mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and bird watching, the Minnesota River Bottoms in Bloomington MN are some of the last natural trails in the Twin City metro. At the Bloomington Ferry Bridge site, you will find one of three starting points for many outdoor adventures along the river.

Trailhead locations and the Bloomington Ferry Bridge history

You have the option to cross under three bridges by riding the trails here along the Minnesota River. The first is the Bloomington Ferry Bridge. Started in the summer of 1849, the Bloomington Ferry began operations next to the Minnesota River bottoms. It carried people from the Bloomington shores to Shakopee. Exactly 40 years later, the first Bloomington Ferry Bridge was opened. Carrying people, carriages, and motorists across the river for over 100 years. No longer open to auto traffic, the trailhead here on the west side of Bloomington is a good starting point.

The two other trailheads are down steam from the Ferry Bridge. The next access to the trails is next to the 35W bridge. The final trailhead is at the Old Cedar Bridge site.

What are the Minnesota river bottoms?

The riders, hikers, and runners who frequent the Minnesota River bottoms.

To locals, the “River Bottoms” is a trail network stretching from the southwest corner of Bloomington to the trails of Fort Snelling State Park. These trails are enjoyed by mountain bike riders and runners who frequent them. While under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, they are not maintained by any government entity and often take on a “path of least resistance” or direction. It is not uncommon for new tracks to spring up after heavy rains and high river flooding. While riding, expect dirt trails exclusively with some log crossings, sand sections, and occasional overgrowth. Warning: in the summer, pay particular attention to the Urtica Dioica plants, or stinging nettles, growing on infrequently used trails.

Wildlife of the Minnesota River Bottoms

Bikers, birdwatchers and hikers can enjoy the wildlife sightings along the banks of the Minnesota River.

Bikers, birdwatchers, and hikers can enjoy wildlife sightings along the banks of the Minnesota River.

The River Bottoms are great for all types of recreation. It’s not uncommon to see hikers, bird watchers, and people fishing along the banks of the Minnesota River. I have enjoyed sharing with my son the sights of Bald eagles and Beavers who make the watershed here their home. Additionally, being a natural area, the River Bottoms are home to countless animals, including white-tailed deer and mink.

What to expect

On the map are a few more popular entrances to the River Bottom trail, including Lyndale Ave, Crest Ave, and Old Cedar Ave. These entrances offer ample parking and a clear trailhead. Once you start down the course, you will see that nothing is paved but worn-in enough to be firm under your tires. Except at the Lyndale trailhead, you will find a short section of paved land heading east, perfect for walking and wheelchair use. While a mountain bike is best for unpaved trails, fat tire bikes navigate well in winter. If you need to cross a stream, there are bridges, and at the 9-mile creek in the summer months, there is a rope ferry to get you across. Because the River Bottoms are so smooth, they are an ideal place for kids to go mountain biking.

The Minnesota River bottoms are worn in by the riders, hikers, and runners who frequent them

You will find runners who frequent the natural settings of the Minnesota River bottoms.

When to ride

The Minnesota River bottoms are a natural haven for cyclists in spring, summer, winter, or fall.

The best part of the River Bottoms is that it is one of the first places to dry out each spring. It is also one of the first places to freeze when winter rolls through. Like most off-road trails, please avoid this trail in early spring as they thaw or after heavy rain. Other than that, these trails are sandy enough to drain quickly. One of the best things about the river bottoms is riding fat bikes. Fat bikes can trace their development directly to the river bottom in the winter. When the snow falls, the river bottoms are the perfect mixture of flat trails, bermed turns, and accessibility to create a near-perfect winter track.

Living in the Twin Cities, we are lucky to have a place like the river bottoms to ride. The fact that it is left free to change and natural is unique in a metro area. You will find some of the metro’s last natural trails from the Bloomington Ferry Bridge to Fort Snelling.

About John Brown, the author

John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN, as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinker. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit, and the fever still existed. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. He is starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he can about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then as a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the cycle of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see more of John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

As the winter season progresses remember your fat bike etiquette

by Jess Leong

Winter fat bike season is upon us again as the snow and temps drop. Like riding a regular mountain bike, there is a certain bike etiquette to follow when on the trail. Everyone on the trail wants to have a good time outdoors and make memories in the crisp, clean air. Whether biking, hiking, skiing, or snowshoeing, these are all valid activities where trail etiquette is important. The trail needs to be shared for everyone to have a good time. The rules below will keep everyone free from harm and make it fun for everyone.

Many general rules of the fat bike trail are the same as mountain biking or riding on regular trails. However, there is a major difference to keep in mind in addition to the general rules of the trial.

Practicing fat bike etiquette is an enhancement to general trail rules

The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) developed the “Rules of the Trail” to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails. Keep in mind that conventions for yielding and passing may vary in different locations or with traffic conditions. This list is also on IMBA‘s website and in the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide.

Before You Ride

Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability, and the area you are riding, and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions.
Let People Know: Make sure there’s at least one other person who knows where you’re headed when you plan to start, and when you hope to return. Things can happen on the trail; someone must know where you might be if something goes wrong.
Ride Open Trails: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are prohibited in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness. This means you guessed it; check ahead of time!

While Riding

Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.
Yield Appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users unless the trail is signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill unless the trail is signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
Never Scare Animals: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

Understand ice and snow travel and how to do it safely.

Practice fat bike etiquette, follow the trail rules, and have fun.

Riding in the winter means riding on top of ice and snow. Throughout the winter, there will be times when it’s warmer or colder out, which can affect the ground beneath your tires. Know how to deal with this. Many people also ride on top of the frozen water. Riding across a frozen lake or river can be extremely dangerous if the ice were to crack. Learn how thick the ice needs to be to carry you and your bike when venturing across frozen waters.

Always bring items that can help if you’re in a situation where the ice breaks from under you. International Mountain Bicycling Association recommends that ice picks and a length of rope be carried if riding on lakes or rivers.

Fat Bike Etiquette – General Rules of the Trail

Riding a trail system before it snows is advisable when possible.

Be polite and respectful to all.

Yield to all other users of the trail when riding. This includes hikers, especially skiers, since they do not have brakes to stop when traveling. Be constantly aware of your surroundings for who and what is around you. Everyone is trying to enjoy the outdoors. When on your Fatty:

Ride on the firmest part of the track to prevent making a deep rut in the trail. Cutting into the trail more than an inch is difficult, if not impossible, to repair.
Stay as far right as possible on the trail. This is so that other bikers, hikers, etc., can pass on the left.
Do not ride on Nordic or classic ski trails. These trails are specifically groomed, and tires that cross them will ruin the trail and cause problems for those using or repairing them. Being respectful and sharing the trail is important for everyone’s enjoyment.
Respect any closures or alternative days where bikers or skiers specifically have the trail. This is also important because if the trail is closed, no one will look out for you if you fall. Plus, other trails might be closed or have maintenance going on. This can cause problems if you’re there.
Wear reflective clothing and use lights or blinkers. This helps signal to others where you are from a distance. Skiers and snowmobiles travel quickly, and seeing you as far away as possible can help them change their route so there is no collision or problems that will arise.
Consider donating to the shared trails to help cover the cost of maintenance. It takes people to keep the trails well-groomed and ready for people to ride, ski, or hike on them. A donation can go a long way to keeping that trail ready when you want to use it again.

If you are riding in a group, do not ride side by side. This makes it hard for anyone passing by to get through or weave around. It also can block up the trail.

Don’t Forget!

Also, always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Search for an IMBA Club to join, and don’t forget to HaveFun!

Jess Leong is a freelance writer for HaveFunBiking.com.

Gaiters may be an added bonus to winter riding warmth

by John Brown,

Cold, snow, sleet, and ice are normal conditions for my winter bike commute to work here in Minnesota. With the elements being so unfriendly, I am excited to try commuting with a pair of gaiters for added warmth. With that direction in mind, I was excited to try the Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiters. For those who aren’t familiar with a pair of gaiters, they cover your shin and calf, below the knee, and above the ankle. Splash-proof protection works in combination with your winter boots to extend your leg. They are designed to keep snow, slush, and debris off your legs and dripping into your boot.

I am wearing the Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter for the first time.

A gaiters construction

The Armadillo LT gaiter’s upper is constructed out of Flexia, a three-layer material designed to stretch, be waterproof, conform to your leg and stay in place. The lower section is made of dense nylon, which is extremely tough. The zippers are waterproof, and the straps and clips seem to be more than tough enough for their job. Even though these gaiters exude durability, they are remarkably lightweight.

High-quality buckles, zippers, and straps are standard.

A full-length zipper makes for an easy fit.

I have to admit that I have never tried riding with a gaiter. Whereas my point of reference is small, I spend a lot of time on my bike in the cold. For the frigid weather, my riding boot of choice is the 45NRTH Wölvhammer, built with gaiters in mind. The Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiter paired with them easily. Thanks to the full-length zipper, I got my riding gear and boots on, then fashioned the gaiter into place with relative ease. That ease comes from the stretch that the upper material offers and the easily adjustable lower Velcro strap and upper buckle strap.

Warmth on the bike

The addition of a waterproof layer was immediately apparent when I left my house. We had gotten a fresh coating of wet snow overnight, and the salt trucks were out in force. Thanks to the slush created, my legs were immediately doused in slop but stayed dry and warm. This is a far cry from a week prior when I rode home without the benefit of gaiters. This time, I buzzed along my usual route to work and noticed that my legs were warmer than normal. Also, when looking down at my legs (not something I recommend), I saw all the sludge my tires were kicking up and bouncing off the gaiters. When I reached the office, my legs were dry and comfortable, and the gaiter was still doing a good job repelling moisture.

Snow and slush are no match for the Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter.

Moving forward

With my first foray into gaiters, I want to see where they are best used. I know that hikers and snowshoeing fans love them for their warmth and protection; now, after trying them, I am fascinated to see how they will help from a cycling perspective. Right now, I will reach for them whenever the weather is cold and wet. While I am sold on their benefit for wet conditions, I look forward to blocking the wind chill when temps get colder. Stay tuned for more information on my adventures with the Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiter.

About John Brown, the author

John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit, and that fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. Starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then to a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

Making a bicycling experience safer with a handlebar blinker light system

At HaveFunBiking, we have shared blinker systems embedded in bicycle helmets and rear-mounted signaling lights. Now, for those with flat bicycle or scooter handlebars, the WingLights might be worth checking out. This inexpensive directional light system (a perfect stocking stuffer) is easy to mount on each end of the handlebars. Then, when turning, tap the light at the end of the right or left handle grip and move to the proper lane, just like signaling when driving a car. As a cyclist riding on the road or trail, you will find added comfort and visibility in displaying your intention when changing lanes or directions.

Just tap the right blinker before gesturing with a right-hand signal.

Just tap the left blinker before gesturing with your left-hand signal.

The WingLight directional blinkers work well on rough roads where cyclists must have both hands on the handlebars. Just a firm tap on the surface of the selected light, and it begins to blink. Then, in 45 seconds, which is usually long enough to make the turn, the light turns off to save on your battery.

Winglights are currently available in two options

The WingLights 360nFixed, their original, is a high-quality turn signal system that magnetically attaches to your handlebar ends. It is easy to install and use. These turn signals flash bright amber and can be seen from all angles. When removed, the units clip together onto a keyring for safekeeping. The Mag is compatible with all handlebars with an inner diameter from 14.7mm to 23mm. They retail for $61.00 and batteries are included.

The WingLights Next is a brand new, non-magnetic turn signal built to the same high specifications as the original system. Like the Mag, the Fixed v3 is permanently attached to your handlebar. The Fixed v3 sells for $79.00 on Amazon.

To order either of these lights or more information or other products, visit the manufacturer at www.cycl.bike

Brighter and safer blinkers

The blinkers help to improve cyclists’ visibility in dangerous areas, in and around intersections.

Using hand signals along with WingLights

At HaveFunBiking.com, we highly recommend the continued practice of using hand signals. Like others on the market, this turning light system offers added visibility to show your intentions when changing directions. However, they should not replace the practice of using hand signals. By continuing to gesture your movement with hand signals and blinkers, you multiply your chances of being seen and staying safe.

Installing the WingLights blinkers

This review made installation quick and easy, taking under ten minutes. At the end of each handlebar grip, cut a sharp knife so the handlebar tube is exposed. Insert the rubber plunger of the Winglight firmly into the handlebar and tighten. You will find full instructions included in the package. Check out the instructional video here for a comprehensive guide on this blinker system.

Sorry, these blinker lights are not suitable for all handlebar types

The current WingLights are only available for straight (sometimes referred to as flat) handlebars. Curved handlebars with a maximum curvature of 30° also work. The company is working on a future design compatible with drop bars (also known as bullhorn and/or cruise bars).

Put smiles on kid’s faces by helping prep FB4K bike giveaway

If you live near or close to the Twin Cities, help the Free Bikes 4 Kidz (FB4K) bike giveaway program in its 15th year. Volunteer to help put more smiles on children’s faces. Donate your time to help clean, prep, or wrench some of the thousands of bicycles collected this year for their distribution drive before the holidays and in the spring.

This FB4K bike giveaway helps put more smiles on kid’s faces

Free Bikes for Kids helps kid's smile with the 2016 season Bike Collection Day, on Saturday, October 8th, Donate your bikes to help more kids.

FB4K helps kids smile with their annual Bike Collection Day a few weeks ago

As more become interested in eco-friendly lifestyles, Free Bike 4 Kidz proudly continues to prepare bicycles to give away and invites you to join them by helping to clean, prep, and wrench bikes in their warehouse. They need your help today to get the bicycles out to the kids expecting them for this annual bike giveaway on December 9th.

freeBy volunteering today to help clean some bikes for FB4K's will help create some fond memories for you and future memories for children who receive them. bikes4kids-4

Create some fond memories for yourself and for the children who receive them.

Meet new and old friends as you volunteer. FB4K’s need your help now!

Volunteering and cleaning or wrenching some bikes will create a smile on your face and the kids who get them. We will continue to have volunteer opportunities in the future, but helping now will ensure the kids waiting for bikes will all have wheels before Christmas. Schedule your shifts today by clicking here to Volunteer or schedule as a group.

Join Free Bike 4 Kids today and put more smiles on kids’ faces!

About Free Bikes 4 Kidz

Free Bikes 4 Kidz is a non-profit organization geared toward helping all kids ride into a happier, healthier childhood by providing free bikes to those most in need. When the public donates gently used bikes, FB4K organizes thousands of volunteers to clean, refurbish, and give them away to needy kids. They started in 2008 by fixing and giving away 300 bikes. In 2014, they reached the goal of 5,000 bikes. In the last several years, over 30,000 bikes have rolled through FB4B’s giveaways, and their sights in the future are set on other locations throughout the U.S. and the world. See more at http://fb4k.com/about/

Fun outdoor winter activities to stay healthy

by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking

For many of us, being active and enjoying fun winter activities (biking, hiking, skiing, etc.) is what memories are made of while contributing to good health. Despite the lifestyle changes of new technology and evolving viruses, there’s still plenty of room to participate in some outdoor fun. Seeking out healthy activities may be even more important now as winter approaches. Doing something you enjoy can distract you from problems and help you cope with all the new life challenges that cause stress.

Page through our latest Bike/Hike Guide with many maps of Minnesota destinations offering fun opportunities. Then, layer up your dress attire for the temperature swings ahead and head out. If you haven’t already, you will soon discover that outdoor pursuits pose a lower risk of getting sick than indoor workouts.

It’s a perfect time of the year to jump on a fatty and hit a Minnesota trail.

Why choose outdoor adventures?

When outside, the fresh air is constantly moving, helping to digest food more effectively, improve blood pressure and heart rate, strengthen the immune system, and reduce obesity rates. Enjoying Minnesota’s fun outdoor activities offers other benefits, too. As you may have discovered this summer, being outside also offers an emotional boost that will help you feel less tense, stressed, angry, or depressed.

This Bike Pic Thursday, we caught this biker chick out having fun along the Minnesota River bottoms near Bloomington, MN.

This biker chick’s winter activities include having fun along the Minnesota River bottoms near Bloomington, MN.

Enjoy more with low-risk Minnesota winter adventures

Here in Minnesota, a winter wonderland pursuits, consider moving with these low-risk outdoor activities to stay healthy and safe. Again, use the current Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide, with all the maps, to find a place to enjoy the following hobbies.

Fat Biking
Nature walks
Snowshoeing
Downhill and/or cross-country skiing
Ice skating
Ice fishing and hunting
Fitness classes, held outside to allow extra distancing
And exploring the snow-covered trails on an ATV.

It’s Friday and HaveFunBiking George will soon melt away as the spring thaw approached,

Winter activities can also include stopping to make a snowman.

Remember, seeking healthy outdoor activities may be even more important as winter approaches. Doing something you enjoy can distract you from problems and help you cope with all the new life challenges that cause stress.

Global Fat-Bike Day brings old and new friends together

Are you ready? The worldwide Global Fat-Bike Day helps to bring outdoor enthusiasts together to ride and make new friends. This year, on Saturday, December 2nd, there are several rides here in the upper Midwest to honor the mission of this event.

Global Fat-Bike Day fun in the upper Midwest

Here in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, find several fat bike events on the first Saturday in December, with all types of themes. From the Ugly Sweater Ride in Chaplin to Plymouth’s Holiday Ride in Osage or Rollin a’ Fatty in Bloomington, these are some of the scheduled events in Minnesota. In Wisconsin, ride from UW Wanderoos in Amery, or the CAMDA Ride starting at Hatchery Creek. Or, in South Dakota, the Big Sioux Bikepacking Brigade is hosting a casual ride on the scenic gravel roads around Canton.

See all the fat bike event details and links for the upper Midwest posted at the MN Trail Navigator.

CAMBA’s Hatchery Creek Trailhead – Dec. 2

Don’t forget your camera because part of the Global Fat-Bike Day celebration will include sharing your experience through photos and video! Use the hashtag #GFBD2022.

Cruising the trails along the Minnesota River near Bloomington, MN.

Enjoy your riding your fatty, and make some fun off-road memories!

Can I ride an electric bike when it’s cold or wet?

Electric bikes can be used in cold or wet weather like most standard bicycles. However, you may need some accessories (like rain gear or studded tires for winter) to ride safely. Most e-bike models also provide a high-quality, water-resistant casing to protect your battery when wet and cold. You can ride an e-bike at any temperature, but the colder it is, the more it may impact the battery’s range. So bring your battery (or the entire bike + battery) inside if you’re not riding it, if possible. Do not leave the battery on the bike if parking the e-bike outside in the winter at any time.

Riding an e-bike in cold weather

This Monday mornings bike pic shows the wet road surfaces after another round of rain shower last night, hope you are staying dry!

STAYING DRY WHILE RIDING IN THE RAIN

An electric bike’s system, including the motor, battery pack, display, and connection points, is usually designed with closed units to accommodate wet weather. This protects the electrical system from getting wet while riding in the rain. The key distinction here is that e-bikes are water-resistant but not waterproof. So, for this reason, it’s a good idea to avoid heavily flooded roads, streams, and deep puddles that could submerge your bike’s electrical components.

As electric bikes might have different limitations and wade depths, you may need to refer to your owner’s manual or check with your manufacturer for the IP rating of your bike first. If you live in an area that experiences frequent wet weather, you’ll want to make water resistance a top factor in your purchase decision.

Riding an e-bike with ice and snow conditions

riding an e-bike fatty in inclement weather

Yes, you can ride your e-bike in the winter. However, riding in extreme cold, snow, and icy conditions will require a bit more maintenance, protection, and care. With advancements in tire technology and clothing warmth, there are fewer reasons not to take your electric bicycle out and enjoy the winter season. All e-bikes can handle winter riding, but the wider the tire, the better, especially if studs can be installed on your bike’s tire for icy conditions. That said, you must follow the key points below to ensure you enjoy riding your bike during the winter.

Use the right type of tire

Like a regular bike you might use for winter riding, the tires that come with your electric bicycle are great for most dry pavement riding, but not winter. Maneuvering a bicycle (with or without a motor) requires a tire that handles ice and snow. Then add studs to those winter tires, transforming your e-bike into a fantastic winter vehicle! Great for riding on plowed roads and for hard-packed or icy conditions. If you are looking at a fat tire e-bike for winter riding, ask the dealer if studs can be added to the tires on that bike.

Battery Care

A CENTER POST BATTERY MOUNT IS COMMON FOR MANY ELECTRIC BIKE MODELS

The general rule with a 36 volt, 10.5Ah (ampere-hours) battery should get 20 to 40 miles per charge with the average weight of rider + gear & cargo less than 200 pounds in ideal weather conditions. You’ll get fewer miles the higher the assist level you use. You might get 60 miles or more on a single charge on the low assist. To maximize the life of your e-bike battery, try to charge it when it’s near empty. Then, ride your e-bike a lot and charge it often.

Before charging, make sure your battery is in a room above freezing. Otherwise, you could harm the cells. It is no problem to ride the bike in below-freezing conditions (it doesn’t harm the battery). However, make sure you let the battery warm up slowly before charging. When riding an e-bike in very cold weather, you will notice a drop in power and range. Don’t worry; this is normal and expected when riding an e-bike in the winter.

It’s good to know the battery life and performance in cold weather of your e-bike. If you intend to commute to work or use the bike for a backcountry experience, test it out to determine the change in range with colder temps. And the steps you would take to ensure continued performance. For instance, purchasing a neoprene e-bike battery cover might be an option. Also, if you stop midway on your journey to warm up, bring the battery inside whenever you aren’t riding. This will keep the battery’s temperature up and give you extra power!

Avoid riding through slush

Riding your electric bike through snow is not only possible, but it’s also super fun! (See the Pedego video below for proof) What’s not fun is riding through slush. The watery, salty snow splashes up your gears and can seep into hard-to-reach areas, causing rust to form. If you must ride through slush, wipe the entire bike down, lube the chain, etc. Afterward, try to store your bike in a warm, dry location.