CLOSED Easter Sunday!

PLEASE NOTE! We will be CLOSED Sunday, April 5th, for the Easter holiday. We will re-open on our regular schedule Wednesday the 8th. Enjoy the day!

New Trike in the Shop!

TerraTrike Traveler, ready to ride.

Here's some exciting news... The new TerraTrike Traveler folding trike has arrived!  Priced at a very competitive $1999 for the 24-speed "Base" model, it folds up nice and small for travel.  Similar in design to their popular Rambler model, it's a very comfortable and nice-riding trike.  Come on in and check it out!

TerraTrike Traveler, folded.

For more info, visit the TerraTrike website:

Terratrike Traveler

Sprucing up an old classic!

While most folks know bikes@vienna for our selection of folding bikes, as well as recumbent bikes and trikes, not as many know about our interest in refurbishing older, quality bicycles. We're not necessarily talking about antiques here, but rather those great bikes built back in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Some of you are probably aware that Tim has a pretty sizable collection of older bikes, and really enjoys riding and fixing up such machines. That's carried over into the business as well, and over the years, we've brought some fine older bikes back up to snuff for their owners.

One good example is this lovely bike featured here.  Last summer, a customer came in and asked if we could recommend any shop that might appreciate and be willing to work on an older Miyata road bike. Well, not only is bikes@vienna just such a shop, Tim is a big fan of Miyata touring bikes... so much so that he moderates a Yahoo group dedicated to those and similar bikes.

• Miyata 1000/Specialized Expedition Bikes

 As with all such projects, we took the time to check the bike over thoroughly to discover what issues it might have. We also had a good chat with the owner, to get a sense of how they felt about the bike, their history with the bike, and what their goals were in bringing it to us. The owner had a number of adventures on the bike in the past, including overseas travel, and wanted to get it back into running condition after sitting idle for several years. In addition, he was hoping to upgrade a few items in the process, for both appearance and practical reasons.

Here's a "before" shot:

Miyata 610 Before

There was nothing really "wrong" with the bike, as he brought it in, aside from needing a bit of basic maintenance and TLC, as you can see.  However, the owner really likes the bike and wanted to do a few things to make it just a bit sharper looking and better performing. 

Drivetrain performance was fine from the owner's point of view, so we focused our technical attention on the braking system. While the original brakes worked okay, most older caliper brake systems can see significant improvement by replacing the older brake levers that have exposed cables to the more modern "aero" style levers with concealed cable routing.  It really has nothing to do with the aerodynamics, but the manner in which the cables are routed and pulled by the levers is a bit smoother and more efficient than the old style.  Many folks also find they prefer the tidier look of the concealed cable routing, though that's a highly subjective question.

For both appearance and comfort, the owner wanted to change out the good quality but much worn old factory saddle.  The saddle he chose is the excellent Brooks Champion Flyer, essentially a sprung version of that company's venerable B.17 design.  Brooks saddles have been made for over a hundred years, using the same materials, tools and techniques today as at the beginning.  Basically a steel frame with a tensioned leather "body" suspended on the frame, many cyclists (including Tim) consider them the most comfortable and attractive saddles available.  On the other hand, saddle choice is a highly personal matter, so not everyone will agree.

Finally, the original foam hand grips were dried out and and degraded to the point of falling apart. Given the choice of saddle, the natural thing to replace them was Brooks leather bar tape in a matching shade of brown.  Soft and smooth, leather provides a great gripping surface, and is comfortable with and without gloves.  It looks very classy on an older fine bicycle, but it is a bit on the expensive side.  A less pricey alternative would be some variation on cork or synthetic cork substitute, which are available in a tremendous range of colors to suit your needs.

The customer was very pleased with the end result, and the bike looks really sharp and rides great. Do you have an older bike sitting in your garage?  Could it use a bit of an update or sprucing up?  Have you thought you might starting riding again more if only it were a bit more comfortable, or rode a little more smoothly?  Why not bring it in for us to look at... all estimates are free of charge, and we really enjoy working with people to rejuvenate a trusted two (or three) wheeled friend.

"After" photo:

Miyata 610 After

CLOSED 2:00PM March 1, 2015

Due to weather conditions, we've decided to play it safe and close the store, as of 2:00pm Sunday, March 1st.  We will re-open for our regular hours on Wednesday.  See you then!

CLOSED Saturday, February 21st!

Due to the fact that the snow has started and things are likely to get worse before they get better, we are CLOSED TODAY!  Please come see us tomorrow, Sunday the 22nd... it's supposed to be quite a bit warmer than it's been, and the snow and mix will have stopped by then!

UPDATE on C&O Canal Fee Proposal!

Well, after a lot of public input, the C&O Canal has revised their proposal for changes in the fee structure for the park. On the one hand I know many folks are relieved and pleased to not have to pay in most situations, I'm concerned about whether or not the revised plan will solve the park's financial problems to the degree necessary.

The press release follows:

Press Release: C&O Canal NHP Revises Fee Proposal

HAGERSTOWN, Md. - Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (C&O Canal) is revising its proposal to increase and expand entrance and other fees park-wide. Last month the park proposed expanding fee collection to include charging a park-wide recreation fee. At this point, we’re midway through robust public meetings. Having heard concerns over the proposal for new fees, the park has decided to rescind its proposal to expand fee collection.

The park is still proposing to moderately increase existing entrance, campground and pavilion rental fees only at park locations where fees are currently collected. 

“We have seen the great passion we all share for this park displayed over the course of three public meetings and have three more scheduled. At this point we’re modifying our proposal and will continue public dialog,” Superintendent Kevin Brandt said. 

After this revision, the proposed entrance fees that would become effective no sooner than May 1, 2015 are as follows:

Park Annual Pass:
-Current: $20, Great Falls, MD only
-Proposed: $30, Great Falls, MD only

Per Vehicle Pass:
-Current: $5/vehicle for 3 days, Great Falls, MD only
-Proposed: $15/vehicle for 7 days, Great Falls, MD only

Per Person Pass:
-Current: $3/person for 3 days, Great Falls, MD only
-Proposed: $7/person for 7 days, Great Falls, MD only

Motorcycle Pass:
-Current: $5/motorcycle for 3 days, Great Falls, MD only
-Proposed: $10/motorcycle for 7 days, Great Falls, MD only

The park is are also proposing to increase fees for campgrounds and picnic pavilions. Comparability studies have been completed to determine rates. The proposals are as follows:

Drive-In Campgrounds:
-Single Site Rate: Current: $10 per night, Proposed $20 per night
-Group Site Rate: Current $20 per night, Proposed $40 per night

Hiker-Biker Camping Sites:
-Current: No Charge, no changed proposed

Picnic Pavilion: Carderock Pavilion
-Monday-Thursday: Current $150 per day, Proposed $250 per day
-Friday-Sunday & Holidays: Current $250 per day, Proposed $350 per day

To provide comments on the revised fee increase proposal, go to: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/cocanalfees. The public comment period will remain open until February 22, 2015. 

The park will continue to hold public meetings as follows:

February 9, 2015, at Hancock Town Hall, 126 West High Street, Hancock, MD from 6:30-8:00 PM

February 11, 2015, at Storer Ballroom at the Shepherd University Student Center, 210 North King Street, Shepherdstown, WV, from 6:30-8:00 PM

February 17, 2015, at Brunswick City Park Building, 655 East Potomac Street, Brunswick, MD, from 6:30-8:00 PM

IMPORTANT!!! C&O Canal Public Meeting Location Changed!!!!!

The Park Service has changed the location of the public meeting about the proposed fees for the C&O Canal.  The meeting will be held at the Washington Waldorf School in Bethesda, MD, at 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 5th.  If you have thoughts and concerns about this proposal, please try to make it to the meeting.


C&O Canal Facebook Notice

National Park Service proposing increased and expanded fees for C&O Canal

As many of you know, the National Park Service is proposing increasing and expanding fees for users of the C&O Canal. Public comment is being taken online as well as at public meetings. The nearest meeting to us is at Glen Echo next Thursday, February 5th at 7pm. If you have thoughts or opinions on this matter, please contribute! More info at the links...

C&O Canal Proposal

C&O Canal Fees meetings and input

The Amazing Hase Pino!

Where can you go on a Hase Pino tandem? Well, as the father/son team who ride this one have shown, pretty much anywhere! They've decorated their bike with stickers from many of the places they've traveled, some of which you can see here.  If you're not familiar with the Pino, it's a remarkable bike that, unlike most tandems, allows both riders a great view of where they're going. In addition, the stoker is in front of the captain, allowing the person controlling the bike to see their stoker and communicate with them better. Adjustable to a wide range of sizes, it's a great choice for  many riding pairs.

This particular bike features a few special modifications to better serve the young man who sits in the front (stoker) seat.  Shock cords help hold his feet on the pedals, a cycle computer allows him to track speed and distance, an array of bells and horns (one parrot shaped, the other a killer whale), with a yoga mat added to the seat for just an extra bit of comfort.  Finally, they've added the extra sturdy kickstand that provides stability while the stoker mounts and dismounts.

All in all, the Pino is a remarkable bike.  If you're considering a tandem, you owe it to yourself to come and try it out!

Trier and the Bodensee 

Austria, Germany, Luxembourg

Remich and Munich

Maginot Line

HOLIDAY HOURS!

Christmas and the New Year are coming fast, so please make note of our holiday hours:

Wednesday, Christmas Eve: 10am - 4pm
Thursday, Christmas Day: CLOSED
Friday, Boxing Day: CLOSED
Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sunday: Noon - 5pm

Wednesday, New Years Eve: 10am - 4pm
Thursday, New Years Day: CLOSED
Friday, Jan 2nd: 10am - 7pm
Saturday, Jan 3rd: 10am - 6pm
Sunday, Jan 4th: Noon - 5pm

Then it's back to our regular winter hours!

Join us for holiday cheer!

On Wednesday, December 17th, we'll be having hot cider, coffee, tea, cookies and holiday music from 5pm to 7pm. Come join us to celebrate the holidays.  While you're here, check out some special deals we'll be offering.  We won't be posting the details in advance, so you'll just have to come in and see for yourself... and grab a hot beverage and cookie while you're at it!

Bromptons for the Holidays!

Is there someone on your holiday shopping list who has been particularly good?  Have YOU been particularly good?  Well, what better reward than a Brompton bicycle or Brompton accessories for the holidays!  We've got a good selection of the bikes in stock, including three Super Light models (a M6L-X, P6L-X and S6L-X), in a number of colors and styles.  We've also got all of the Brompton bags in stock, including the fabulous new Game Bag, as well as the Nitto rear rack and the Brompton Toolkit. Or maybe someone on your list would like a DVD or book about the history of Brompton.  Or a spiffy new Carradice bag, perhaps in tweed?  So many great choices... hurry in before the big day!

Possible new bike infrastructure in Vienna!

At 8 pm on Monday, December 15 the Vienna Town Council will be considering a proposal for infrastructure improvements to Marshall Road SW between Nutley Street and Ware Street.

The proposed project includes a climbing bicycle lane on the south side of Nutley as described and shown in the map here:

http://www.viennava.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2412

If this link does not work, please go to the Transportation Safety Commission page here:

http://www.viennava.gov/index.aspx?NID=417

and click the link at the bottom of the page for Marshall Road SW Traffic Calming and Pedestrian/Bicycle Improvements.

Please consider emailing your support or comments to:

council@viennava.gov

or if possible attend the meeting Monday night that begins at 8 pm. The Council chambers are on the second floor of Town Hall. 

Town Council meeting agendas are usually posted the Friday before a meeting.  There may be more details about this agenda item posted at that time.

Brompton 2015 - NEW COLORS!

For 2015, Brompton has introduced 6 new colors, the first major shake up in the color selection in several years.  The new choices look pretty sharp.  Take a look:

Berry Crush

Cherry Blossom

Lagoon Blue

Tempest Blue 

Lime Green

Ivory

 Now, with the new colors coming in, some of the older colors have been discontinued, specifically Yellow, Sage Green, Claret, Cobalt Blue, Desert Sand, Hot Pink, Apple Green and Arctic Blue.  I'm sure some of those colors will be missed by some, but I think the new choices are really great.

As of mid-October, Brompton has been taking orders for 2015 bikes, with about a 4 week turnaround time.  Be the first on your block to have one of the new colors... come on in and place an order now.  We'll have some of the new colors in stock around the first of the year, and sample chips soon.

Linus Sale for the Holidays!

In time for your holiday shopping, we're once again offering our entire stock of Linus bikes at 10% off!  Come on in and check out a Dutchi, Mixte or Roadster for that special someone on your list... even if that special someone is you! ;-)

This sale is limited to stock on hand, so don't wait too long!

We'll also have some other specials coming up soon, so come on by for a visit and stay tuned here!

Thanksgiving Holiday Hours!

Next week is Thanksgiving, so we're changing our hours to suit -

We will be OPEN -

Wednesday 11/26: 10am - 7pm
Thursday 11/27: CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING
Friday 11/28: 10am - 7pm
Saturday 11/29: 10am - 6pm
Sunday 11/30: Noon - 5pm
Monday 12/1: 7PM - 9PM for the Holiday Stroll

The Church Street Holiday Stroll is a wonderful event, where the town lights up the Christmas tree on Church Street, Santa arrives by fire truck, and businesses stay open later than usual (or in our case, open on a day we are normally closed).  We'll be here that evening, with hot beverages and some special sales and holiday music.

We will be running specials Friday through Monday, so come on by!

Holiday Gift Ideas - First Installment

Christmas is coming! So we're going to offer some gift suggestions and even some sale items as the big day approaches.

First up... for the Brompton owner on your list, why not get them one of the amazing new Game Bags from Brompton? Handcrafted by Chapman in NW England, they are beautifully made, stylish and practical. The perfect accessory for a fine British folding bike! We've got very limited quantities, so get them while we have them, as Brompton themselves are currently out of stock.

Studded tires for Bromptons!

They're here! The new Schwalbe Winter studded tires... in 16"/349mm - Brompton size! They'll also work on Bike Friday's Tikit and Greenspeed's GT series trikes, among other things. We have a limited number of them, and it looks like we got the last that were in the warehouse, so if you want some, come and get them!

You'll be amazed at how well studded tires work on ice and packed snow. It feels like your tires are just as connected to the road as on dry pavement.  Truly amazing!

Halloween Parade 2014 - October 29, 2014!

Coming up in just NINE days - the Town of Vienna is having their 68th Annual Halloween Parade on Wednesday, October 29th. It's a bikes@vienna tradition to ride in the parade, and we'd really appreciate your help in making this the best turnout of bikes and trikes ever!  It's always a good time, and we always have food and drinks afterwards for folks. This is one of Vienna's biggest events of the year... come and be a part of it!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!

We'll meet at the shop at 6:00 pm to get ready, then ride to the start point around 7:00.

(That's Ray's Star Wars Y-Wing fighter/trike in the photo... we can't wait to see what he comes up with this year!)

Ride To Discovery along the W&OD Trail: Bikes @ Vienna To Falls Church, Sunday, October 19th.

What African-American astronomer helped survey of the original boundaries of the District of Columbia in 1791?

• Where along the W&OD Trail can you find two of the boundary stones?  

Where is the first house in Falls Church to have indoor plumbing?

What Falls Church resident was inducted as an inaugural member of the Black Athletes Hall of Fame, along with Jesse Owens, Satchel Paige, Jackie Robinson, and Mohammed Ali?  

• Why did he and his wife put their lives on the line in 1915 in the struggle for civil rights?  

Find the answers on the next Bikes at Vienna Ride To Discovery along the W&OD Trail!  The route is about 16 miles round-trip.  Most of the ride will be on the W&OD Trail, but we’ll also cycle on city streets for short distances to visit sites of historic significance.  

The ride will take place on Sunday, October 19, leaving from the Bikes at Vienna parking lot at 8:45 AM.  Please arrive early so that you have time to read and sign the liability waiver and get your bike ready to go promptly at 8:45.   

Don’t just ride the W&OD.  Ride To Discovery with Bikes at Vienna!

Photo from our last Ride to Discovery