Welcome to Clipped In by Ray’s Bike Shop!

Clipped In is your source for all things cycling in Mid-Michigan and Beyond! This is a newsletter focused at giving YOU (our customers) better insight into the broad stroke that is cycling in Michigan and Beyond! This is more than your average “what is happening around here” newsletter. Clipped In will house a variety of features from customer product reviews, tech tips, tutorials, event results and even exclusive deals!

Without further ado, let’s get into the week that was and take a peek at the coming weeks!

Happening Around The Community

pssss…. WINTER IS COMING! And it’s on Sale!

Trek has SLASHED Prices on all Farley Fat bikes with savings of over $500! That isn’t even the best part, you can test before you buy! That is right; We have a fleet of Trek Farley 7’s available for rent so you can get a true feel for the product before spending a single dollar.

Call or stop by any of our locations for more details!

Local Mountain Biker Makes Massive Waves

After dominating the year, winning 5/6 events; Our very own Midland Mountain Bike Crew member Matthew Wolohan captured the MiSCA JV 11th-12th Grade Mountain Bike Series Title this past weekend! More about MiSCA Here.

Ray’s Repair Clinics Are Returning!

You heard it here first, errrr maybe 2nd or 3rd; nonetheless, we are back with our world-famous Repair Clinics! This upcoming December-February we will be hosting a variety of repair clinics touching on everything from simple flat repair, emergency trail side fixes and everything in between.

The cost of the clinic will also include gift bags featuring tools and supplies needed for the class, and possibly some extra surprises.

Join The Repair Clinic Waitlist Here

Iceman is Cometh

Ok, A slight play on words, but you get the hint; ICEMAN IS COMING! We are a mere 10 days away from one of the most iconic mountain bike races in the country. For those unfamiliar the Iceman Cometh; It is a 30(ish) mile point to point mountain bike race from the quaint town of Kalkaska to Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City with over 4000 competitors from all over the country.

The weather is typically the biggest juggernaut as some years we have a Niceman while others have been more of a Mudman. In either case we are excited to see what the weekend will have instore for the riders and course staff alike.

Rest assured that Ray’s Bike Shop is your go-to source for any event questions, bicycle preparations, cold weather gear as well as nutrition advice for the 30 mile event.

More about the Iceman Cometh Challenge Here

Dakotah Norton is HOMEGROWN

Michigan doesn’t exactly have a storied history when it comes to Downhill Mountain Bike racing but Dakotah Norton has changed that narrative.

HOMEGROWN explores life behind the scenes with one of North America’s most promising talents in downhill racing, Dakotah Norton.

What does it take to compete at the highest level, on another continent? And what motivates a rider to build a life in Tennessee, a world away from the mountains of Europe and Canada that they race at each season.

DID YOU KNOW: Chain Maintenance

Drivetrain/Chain maintenance is often the most overlooked and easily addressed problem areas of the bicycle. Over time, the links of a bicycle chain stretch, causing the chain to become loose and inefficient. This can lead to increased friction, reduced performance, and even damage to other components.

Why chain wear occurs:

• Friction: The constant friction between the chain and the sprockets can cause the links to stretch.

• Dirt and grime: Dirt and grime can accumulate on the chain, causing it to wear more quickly.

• Poor maintenance: Neglecting to clean and lubricate the chain regularly can accelerate wear.

Signs of chain wear:

• Excessive noise: A noisy chain is often a sign of wear.

• Difficulty shifting: If you notice difficulty shifting gears, it could be due to a worn chain.

• Chain slipping: A chain that slips off the chainrings is another indication of wear.

Preventative Measures:

Regular cleaning:

• Remove the chain: Use a chain whip or a dedicated chain removal tool to remove the chain from the bike.

• Clean thoroughly: Use a degreaser and a brush to remove dirt and grime from the chain.

• Rinse: Rinse the chain thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

Lubrication:

• Apply lubricant: Once the chain is clean and dry, apply a high-quality bicycle chain lubricant.

• Wipe excess: Wipe off any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.

Additional tips:

• Avoid cross-chaining: Avoid shifting to the largest chainring in the front and the largest sprocket in the rear, as this can put excessive strain on the chain.

• Store indoors: Store your bike indoors to protect it from the elements.

• Avoid riding in harsh conditions: If possible, avoid riding in muddy or sandy conditions, as these can accelerate chain wear.

Drop by your nearest Ray’s Bike Shop location for a free chain inspection at any time!

Route of the Week

In this week’s edition, we take it to Saginaw as our very own Jeff has conjured up a mixed terrain loop with minimal exposure to main roads.

Be cool and join the Ray’s Bike Shop Strava Club for events and rides!

Link Here To Join The Ray’s Strava Club

Tested By:

Ortlieb Factory Tour | How Waterproof Bike Bags Are Made To Last A Lifetime in Germany.

This week’s Tested By is brought to you by Bike Rumor as they take us along on a factory tour of Ortlieb Waterproof. Ortlieb Waterproof is a renowned German brand specializing in high-quality, waterproof bags and backpacks. They are widely known for their durability, reliability, and exceptional water resistance, making them ideal for outdoor activities, commuting, and travel. Ortlieb products are often used by cyclists, hikers, paddlers, and adventurers who require gear that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Cycling Insight From Around The World

Headline Roundup

• Industry Digest: The Pro's Closet Auction, Industry Acquisitions & More | Pinkbike

• Bespoked Show Dresden | Pinkbike

• Chris King has introduced a new product line | Bike Rumor

• First Look: Pivot Shuttle LT | Pinkbike

• Is Gravel Racing as We Know It Over? | Velo Podcast

Content Recommendations of The Week

• Movies For Your Monday (or Wednesday in our case) | Pinkbike

• Shimano UNSUNG Video Celebrates Three Heros of the Gravel Community | Bike Rumor 

• Heli Drop for a Gravel Ride?! | Alexey + Avery

The Women of Rampage Make History

In a groundbreaking moment for women's freeride mountain biking, female riders competed in their first-ever Red Bull Rampage. 23 years after the inaugural event for men, these talented athletes showcased their skills, courage, and creativity in the Utah desert. After a week of constructing and refining their lines, the riders delivered a thrilling performance that left spectators speechless.

Social Clip Of The Week

Red Bull Rampage week has come and gone and once again the event elevated the sport of freeride mountain biking.

Meme Cleanser

Until next time 🚲❤️