THEFT IS A REALITY IN VANCOUVER, BUT IT DOESN’T HAVE TO HAPPEN

Got a new bike? Really love the one you have? Here’s how to keep it.

Most folks in the bike industry will tell you to spend at least 10% of your bike’s value on a locking system. It’s an investment you can’t really over-do: Vancouver is Canada’s bike theft capital, with a per capita theft rate 2 to 4 times greater than any other big city in the country!

Your best defense against theft is 1) eyes on the street and 2) a great lock. The ABUS Bordo is that lock.

ABUS IS A LEADER IN THE LOCK INDUSTRY

Abus is a German security manufacturer that has been building a first-rate reputation since 1924. The Bordo family of folding locks is an entirely lock system that has revolutionized the industry. There’s nothing out there like it, and there’s been nothing like it before.

STRONG + FLEXIBLE + COMPACT

The Bordo’s design is made from links of German tempered steel that connect through reinforced pivot points. In this way, the family of Bordo locks are able to provide the flexibility of chains and cables (cables are the number lock method targeted by thieves) with unprecedented strength.

The Bordo packs neatly into a carrying case (included in the price!) that mounts easily to the bike frame, and is available in several diameters.

KEY AND COMBINATION OPTIONS – AND DID WE MENTION IT COMES IN PINK?

Use a key system or set a numerical combination – the Bordo offers both. If you lose your key, no problem! ABUS will replace it. Each lock comes with a lifetime warranty.

Most of our staff personally own and trust their bicycles with the Abus Bordo, and that’s the ultimate endorsement! When used correctly, the Bordo really can’t be beat! Come in and ask for a demonstration and see the difference for yourself.

INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL GEARS: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

When shopping for a bike, you may notice that they are advertised as having either  “derailleur” or “ internal” gear systems. Ever wondered what the difference was?

The simplest explanation  is that derailleur systems are external, while internal are – you guessed it – on the inside.

But first, let’s get our terms straight. What are gears?

Gears and Speeds

It’s helpful to think of gears as “speeds” – a bike with 7 gears is a 7-speed bike.

Lower numbered gears are the low gears (slower/easier), and higher numbered ones are the high gears (for going faster/harder).

“Shifting” means going from one gear to another.

Derailleur (External) Gears

Ever noticed that thing that hangs down at your rear wheel? That’s a derailleur. It’s a french term referring to the literal derailment of the chain.

In an external gear system, the rear derailleur literally “de-rails” the chain, moving it to different sized rings to achieve different gear ratios, or speeds.  Because it’s on the outside, it is important to keep it clean and properly cared for.

Pictured above: A rear derailleur system

Internal Hub Gears

In a Hub Gear system, the gears are enclosed within the bicycle’s rear hub. You’ll notice that the rear wheel hub on an internal system is much larger than usual.

In general, an internal gear hub is less maintenance because it is a sealed system. You can also shift gears while stationary, which is great for gearing down at a light before heading off again.

Pictured above: An internal hub system

Which System is Best for Me?

Take a bicycle with each system for a test ride. Find out what you prefer. Generally, it will come down to your personal preference, the system availability of different bike models, your maintenance expectations, and your budget.

Some find that an internal system is a smoother shifting experience, and prefer the low maintenance of the hub. Others are happy with the cost effectiveness and tried-and-true derailleur.

If you’re in the market for a low-maintenance city bike to ride to and from the grocery store or the occasional Sea Wall cruise, an internal system would be a great choice: say a Loft 7i.

If you’re after a light, fast and easy-to-customize commuter with an ample gear range for tackling hills on your way around town, an external system would be a great way to go – like with our Brooklyn Lorimer or Opus Orpheo models.

At the end of the day, they are both great systems – the fun part is choosing your bike.

So get out there and get riding!

About the Program

Have you heard of the BC SCRAP-IT® Program? It’s a provincial “voluntary early retirement vehicle program” that offers an array of incentives to help British Columbians replace their higher-poluting, older cars with cleaner forms of transportation – like a brand new bicycle!

We’re so excited to get you riding we’ve become and approved BC SCRAP-IT Bike Shop.  That means we’ll give you 10% off (up to a $100 value) of your bike purchase. Keep your receipt and fill out the BC SCRAP-IT New Bike Claim Form and they’ll give you a rebate of 300$!

Here’s how:

4 Easy Steps

1. APPLY!

Complete the Program’s Online Application Form. Then call ICBC toll free at 1-800-663-3051 or locally at (604) 661-2800 and have them email your proof of insurance to the SCRAP-IT offices.

2. GET APPROVED!

Wait an average of 2 business days to receive your approval letter via email.

3. SCRAP YOUR CAR!

Bring in your approval letter and your old vehicle to an approved drop off location.

4. GET YOUR BRAND NEW BICYCLE!

Claim your incentive and select option #5 for your deep-discounted new bicycle from either of our 2 Vancouver Denman Bike Shop locations!

Does your family have more than one car? Scrap the surplus and make your second vehicle the Townie^® Go!

Everyone can use the Go! Whether you’re a bicycle commuter looking to extend their potential, a new cyclist considering a longer commuting route, a parent hauling kids in the trailer or a” seasoned” cyclist whose joints need a little boost on those tougher climbs, the Townie^® Go! is guaranteed to take your commuting to the next level. This is the perfect bike for handling grocery runs or a quick trip up to Mom’s house, all while getting exercise and barely breaking a sweat.

Patented and Award-Winning Comfort

Enthusiasts of the Go! know full well why the Townie is one of the best selling bikes in North America: it features Electra’s patented Flat Foot Technology , a unique upright-riding frame geometry that allows you to plant both feet firmly on the ground, any time you want! Never feel off-balance again. With the Go! you can stabilize, stop and straddle your bicycle at any point during your ride, without tipping over. Feel confident mounting and dismounting, experiencing complete stability despite the extra weight of the bike and whatever else you happen to be hauling.

While in traffic or enjoying the countryside view, the upright Townie riding position gives you superior visibility to navigate with confidence. The upright ergonomics mean no more numb buns, sore wrists or neck and upper-back pain.

Unsurpassed German Engineering

At the touch of a button, the newly upgraded and ultra-quiet  Bosch motor offers a battery powered, pedal-assisted riding experience with more glide and less effort. On a really hot day, a quick ride to Mom’s for supper won’t have you showing up sweaty in your spandex – leave the technical gear and your worries behind.  Activated only while pedaling, the frame-mounted motor enhances your natural momentum up to 25 km/h, ensuring your safety with a smooth distribution of power that lets you adjust your rhythm based on speed.  The 2016 edition comes with 8 gears in a low-maintenance internal hub that performs consistently in any weather, rain or shine. Shift easily from gear to gear with twist style shifting on the handlebar.

4 Riding Modes, Plus One More!

Hill and headwinds just don’t matter anymore. The new Townie^® Go! is equipped with 4 riding modes to fit your ride as it changes from day to day: Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo. Eco is the slowest speed on the spectrum, saving the most battery life, with Turbo providing the maximum push to get you to your destination well in time.  Sport mode is the perfect choice for off-road adventures and the stop-and-go nature of heavy city traffic, while Tour mode offers consistent support for longer, steady trips. With the Go!, you can ride at nearly 30 kph with an average heart rate of 120, which is a very healthy, low-risk rate for anyone not used to heavy exercise. In the heat, cruise at 20 kph without heating up yourself – let the breeze be your air conditioning. Up for a challenge? You can always turn the motor off, and just ride it like a bike!

Hauling Power on the “Go”

This is the perfect bike for getting a boost for extra weight.  Never think twice about that 4-gallon of milk on your way home – fill up your panniers and let the Go! do the rest. Parents love the pedal-assist when packing kids into a rear trailer, and younger riders can actually keep up with the pack when you lend them your Go! for a family ride around the sea wall.

Dependable Specs and Warranty!

Now for the technical details: Featuring a 2 year warranty, the Go!’s  36 volt Lithium-ion battery has an average 3 ½ hour complete charge time (1 ½ hours for 50%) and up to 120 km of ride time depending on your mode and terrain. The Bosch Performance electric-assist system is located mid-frame and packs a 250 watt punch. Other specs include a lightweight aluminum frame, Schwalbe Fat Frank Tires for a luxuriously soft ride and low-maintenance Shimano eBike-approved roller brakes. Sweet extras include a Bosch battery charger, alloy rear rack, LED front and rear lighting set, matching rims and fenders, anti-rust hardware and an ABUS frame lock.

Come in for a Test Ride, we have them in Stock!

With so many features loaded into one bike, the Townie^® Go is one of the most intuitive and luxurious rides on the market. If you aren’t curious yet, you should be. Check them out on our website. Better yet, come in and take a rest ride at either of our 2 Vancouver shop Locations and feel the difference for yourself. Ditch the car, and ride!

Are you a woman under 5 feet, having a hard time finding an adult bike that fits your smaller size?

Does  your past bike experience involve teetering on a bike that was too big for you, and you were afraid you’d hurt yourself?

Or have you been told, you need a “Kids Bikes”?   Left riding at the back of the pack, on a poor quality bike?

Well, if you’re like many of our customers of “smaller” stature who are in search of a  comfortable, fashionable, and quality bike that will let you ride with confidence and style, we’ve got some great choices for you!

In the Fashion and Comfort line, we just love these step-through models because of how easy it is to get on and off the bike, for starters….

The Electra Townie

When it comes to a bike that can comfortably accommodate a petite rider, especially one that is nervous about riding, or perhaps has body pain or joint issues…. The Electra Townie rules them all.  With its incredibly intelligent design, the Electra Townie allows the rider to put their feet Flat on the Ground, when not on the pedals.  That’s right, you heard it, FLAT on the ground.  Ride for a bit, feel nervous? Stop and put your foot flat down!  Furthermore thanks to a light-weight aluminum step-through frame and very adjustable seat and handlebars, its much easier  to fit a petite rider, and allow them to gain confidence with their ride.   Now, not to imply that petite riders in particular might be nervous about riding, but I do find often they start out that way, in particular because of past experiences.

For the Townie, there are two size choices, and a few gearing/colour options.  The majority of riders at or about 5 feet, can ride the regular ladies 26” wheel, no problem.  Plus, for even more petite riders there is also the 24” Wheel Townie…   The most popular model, is the Townie Original 7D, in fact it’s so well-loved that this particular model sold more than any other brand-bicycle in the USA for the last 2 years!

Townie Original 7D

Townie Original 7D EQ “Equipped”

Townie Original 7D 24″

For those a little more confidence, these City bikes provide a comfortable and efficient ride.

The Brooklyn Willow or Franklin in size S/M

Some of our best selling bikes for petite ladies are the Brooklyn Willow and Brooklyn Franklin.  These upright city bikes are made of Chromoly Steel which make them more comfortable than aluminum and lighter than traditional steel.  Thanks to the step-through frame, shorter seat tube, and 26” wheels with narrower tires,  we find riders at approximately 4’8” can confidently ride this bike in the S/M size.   Since the seat height and swept back-upright handlebars are very adjustable, the Brooklyn bikes are also great choice for growing teenagers who are looking for a fashionable bike with room for growth.    The Willow has either 3 or 7 speeds with Internal Gears (really clean and low maintenance), and the Franklin has a 7 speed external (like a mountain bike).  And if you don’t know what Internal Gears vs. External gears are, don’t worry you’re like many of our customers. This, we’ll happily explain to you and will be the topic of future blog post!

Brooklyn Willow 3 speed

Brooklyn Frankin Seven

The Electra Loft in size small:

In 2015, Electra re-designed their hugely popular (Oprah’s Favorite Bike), in a smaller size. The Electra “Loft” has such a pretty frame, and thanks to their expert engineering, Electra were able to design a petite bike that still has City Style-27” wheels (700c).   So, the rider doesn’t lose any efficiency  as a result of riding on smaller wheels (like on a kids 24” wheel).  The aluminum frame is nice and light too.   The Loft is available in 3 gearing options and some lovely colours.

Electra Loft 3i

Electra Loft 7i

The Linus Dutchi in size small:

With Linus, it’s all about style!  We have many customers who fall in love with Linus at first sight, with their mid-50’s French style, deep step through frames, and huge array of matching accessories.  Linus owners continue to love their bikes because of how they ride; which is super comfortable,  upright and easy!    The size small Dutchi has 26” wheels and a smaller frame and accommodates a rider around 4’9 to 5’3.   Internal 3 or 8 gears are available.

The Opus Classico 1.0 or the Opus Zermatt in size Small

A slightly sportier model, the Opus Classico or Zermatt are light-weight aluminum step-through frames, with a little more performance than just a cruiser.  The Classico has 7 speeds, with a derailleur and the Zermatt features 24 speeds and disc brakes.  Great for the serious Vancouver all-weather commuter who still wants to be comfortable!

Opus Classico 1.0

Opus Zermatt

Regardless of your level of research, here at the Denman Bike Shop, we welcome you to come and test ride any of our bikes.  Don’t be shy, we’re here to help!

Sincerely yours.. a little vertically challenged myself… the Red Head.

Looking for a price friendly commuter with the room to fine tune the details?   Look no further than the Brooklyn Roebling.

The Brooklyn Bike Company, based out of – you guessed it – Brooklyn,  prides itself on thoughtful design and top quality parts at a reasonable price point. The Roebling is a slick looking, comfortable and agile frame, ready to go as-is, or to customize and build the perfect Vancouver hybrid commuter.

Like all Brooklyn bikes, the Roebling’s frame is uniquely proportioned over a broad range of sizings, from the very petite to the extra tall. While many bike brands use factory standard frame geometries, Brooklyn’s approach involves engineering their frames to provide as full a leg extension as possible while still being able to reach the ground – without ever leaving your seat.

A full leg extension means more power with each pedal stroke, providing a faster, more efficient ride. Being able to put your foot down keeps you steady and confident in the saddle, without having to dismount in a hurry. The result is a riding position that offers  control and comfort combined.

Built of strong chromoly steel, the Roebling features thin tubing and an overall light-looking design that doesn’t compromise on strength. The flex of chromoly steel also helps to absorb the vibrations caused by uneven and rough road surfaces along your commute. Other sweet features include puncture resistant tires and grips moulded to fit the shape of your hand, resulting in greater comfort over long trips.

Offered in stylish matte finishes of both light white and black, the Roebling’s braze-ons (that’s fancy speak for screw holes already in the frame) make your bike super easy to kit out with front and rear fenders, front and rear racks and any other accessories you need to make it the perfect, personalized commuter.

Come in to one of our Vancouver Bike Shop locations and test ride yours today!

Spring has finally arrive and the sun is out! But, remember Vancouver cyclists, we live in Rain Forest.
Don’t let spring showers spoil your ride…

Get yourself some great Rain Gear at 50% OFF!

WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

All Endura and Gore Rain Wear, jackets, pants, show covers, etc. are on SALE for 50% OFF!

Check out our website

If you’re NEW to Cycling , aren’t up to speed on the latest, or just don’t “know anything about bikes…

Here’s a little “Bike 101” on some of the basic things to consider, to help you find the right bike.

Whether you’re a Comfort, Casual or Commuter Cyclist, Denman Bike Shop has a variety of bike options for you.

What is the Right Frame Style for Me?

UP- Right and Comfortable, or Bent-Over Performance Position?

Riding in a bent-over performance position, is more aerodynamic, and allows you to use more of your core muscles and upper body power to pull on the handlebars; as if you were rowing. However, this position can be hard on the lower back, neck and wrists.

With the design of more upright city, comfort and commuter bikes, many people prefer the feeling of cycling in an upright position. You have better eye contact with drivers, your shoulders are relaxed, and you can maintain this position for a longer period.

The degree of upright-ness depends on the frame design and handlebars, and can even be customized to your preference!

Classic Frame or Step-Thru?

While traditional the step-thru bicycle has been associated with women’s frames, many men enjoy the comfort of a step-thru bike, and we have a number of options that allow a Gentlemen to ride a style appropriate step-thru bike.

Classic Frames are traditionally associate with Men’s bikes, but many women like the look and feel of the classic frame. Typically speaking this type of frame design provides more strength , and may be preferred by a taller woman, for example.

Steel Frame or Aluminum?

Your typical comfort-city, cruiser or urban performance bike may come n either a Hi-ten Steel, Aluminum or Chromoly frame.

Hi-Ten Steel Frame bikes are a little heavier, usually cheaper, but do offer more compliance in the frame and some people prefer the feel of real steel.

Aluminum frames are noticeably lighter, however stiffer. They now have a Life-Time Guarantee on the frame, and are rust-proof. (keep in mind your chain and other components won’t be)

Chromoly is a type of steel, that is stronger and lighter than Hi-Ten Steel. The discerning cyclist may say that Chromoly has a better feel. Sometimes, a bike may be Steel with a Chromoly fork.

What kind of gears and brakes do you need?

What kind of gears and brakes you need depends on your preferences, level of physical fitness, how heavy your bike is, how far you’ll be riding and how steep the hills are!

Gears – Internal Or External?

External

External gears are traditional gearing system with cogs (chain rings) and a derailleur which changes the gears by moving the chain from one cog to another, either increasing or decreasing the level of resistance.

This type of system is what you find on a mountain bike, for example. It’s also the type of system where your chain could fall off, if your bikes is not properly maintained or if you “down-shift” too fast,

This type of “drivetrain” can be lighter than internal gears. Quality levels for External gears vary dramatically.

Internal

In this type of gearing system, the gears are enclosed within the wheel’s hub. There is no derailleur. It is a very clean, very low maintenance type of system. The most common are either 3 speed, or 8 speed. It may not sound like a lot of gears, but the range is actually quite wide.

Some of the Internal Geared bikes, also feature a Coaster (or Pedal brake)

Brakes – Hand Brakes, Foot Brakes, Disc Brakes, Roller Brakes – Oh My?

Coaster Brakes (Foot Brakes)

Are so easy to use, that’s how they teach kids to ride a bike. Just pedal backwards and you will stop. This type of brake is normally found on an internally geared bike hub, but not always.

Rim Brakes (V or caliper)

Have Standard rubber brake pads, are easy to clean, and affordable. They do wear out faster, and are not as effective in the rain.

Disc Brakes

Are good for Commuters who ride year round, including in heavy rain. Though, more expensive initially, in the long run maintainance is generally less as the pads last a lot longer.

In some instances they can be a bit noisy in the rain, and are susceptible to “parking damage”.

Roller or Drum Brake (Hub Brakes)

The Brakes are contained within the wheel out of the way of dirt and damage.

Comparable in performance to Disc brakes, hub brakes offer Zero Maintenance, consistent stopping power and nicer “lines” on a fashionable bike . They also make a great upgrade on a bike that can’t accommodate a disc.

How Do you know which one is right for you?

The best way to choose a bike is to come in and test ride! And remember, almost everything on a bike can be customized or personalized to fit your function or your fashion!

“Experience is knowledge, the rest is just information.” ~ Albert Einstein