SANTA CRUZ CHAMP CAMP - MAY 2025 TRIP
CALGARY CYCLE VISITS THE SANTA CRUZ HEADQUARTERS
Many of you may wonder what goes on when us mighty bike industry types travel to a trade show or go visit one of our vendors in their secret underground lairs. We are here to tell you that these trips are not only an awesome time but serve a very important purpose in our quest to be a great bicycle retailer. Recently we sent Quintin and Erik on a whirlwind tour to the seaside confines of Santa Cruz Bicycles HQ for their Champ Camp event. Read on to get a look at what goes on inside a trip like this.
Day one was a long one and saw our dynamic duo up early to fly to Santa Cruz with the obligatory stops at one or more airports that come with flying to the US and enjoying their hub airport system. Arriving in sunny San Jose and picking up the rental they made their way to the Santa Cruz factory in time for some quick refreshments and got ready for a shake down lap on the new SC Bullit. This afternoon’s riding was more about scenery and good times than truly putting the bike to the test but it was a great opportunity to smell the ocean air, verify bike fit and show that Erik will happily ride bikes in flip flops if needed. That evening provided a time to chat with Santa Cruz staff, meet other dealers and generally establish that, as adept as we are at playing Crud, some people have this game dialled to a level that is almost sinister. They know who they are and they use their Crud powers for evil.
Day two was the big ride day and our crew was stoked to get out on the trails and see what the new Bullit was all about. The morning was overcast, misty and a little cool but this often means primo dirt awaits on the trails around Santa Cruz and this day did not disappoint on that front. Leaving the factory and taking a little warm up on the way to the trails we quickly got into some amazing riding that had a variety of trails to test the bike and the early season form of our away team. The boys rode for nearly three hours and came away very impressed with the 4th generation of the venerable Bullit. Several spirited rants about the quality of the dirt had to be endured by all upon their return. Traction for days was the way it went and they stayed away from the poison oak. To hear some thoughts on the bikes check out the debrief episode of Between Two Wheels here. The bike brought all the good things from the previous version and blended those with some new tricks in the form of the newly minted Santa Cruz 4 Bar suspension design that was introduced with arrival of the Bullit’s shorter travel sibling the Vala. This new tech teams up nicely with the new Bosch CX BDU38 (Gen 5) and provides the rider with a deadly combination of usable power, dialled suspension and incredible handling.
After getting a quick refresh after the ride our crew took a tour through the factory and got to see the assembly area, Reserve wheel assembly zone as well as time in some of the less travelled areas of the factory where the engineers work their magic and some very cool bike nerd approved stuff happens. It is truly remarkable how many people contribute to the final product that we all get to ride on our favourite trails. From conception to prototyping, testing, refining, every aspect of getting these bikes to the showroom floor is given the same attention and the end result truly validates the work of the Santa Cruz crew. Once the tour concluded our squad was fed and watered in fine fashion and got to spend some time just being bike industry guys with the Santa Cruz staff and the other dealers at the event. This provided an opportunity to see what other riders thought of the bike and generally take the temperature of our fellow riders and what is happening around our industry. It was an excellent learning experience and a solid chance to relax with fellow riders.
Day 3 was a travel day but our boys were lucky enough to be able to have a quick sit down with Santa Cruz Ride Quality Manager Kiran MacKinnon. Kiran is an amazing rider in his own right and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the bikes that roll out of the factory. Quintin and Erik were able to chat long enough with Kiran that a unique two part episode of Between Two Wheels was captured. Check out Part 1 here to get some insights into a crucial part of the bike development process with Kiran. After that it was time to pack up and get back to reality. Stay tuned for more on this bike and others across our channels or drop in and check out the new Bullit in person! Happy Trails!
OAKLEY EYEWEAR
Renowned for Cutting Edge Technology
When it comes to sunglasses, Oakley stands out as a premier brand known for its innovation, quality, and style. Whether you are an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who simply values eye protection and aesthetics, Oakley sunglasses offer unmatched advantages that make them the best choice on the market.
Oakley is renowned for its cutting-edge lens technology, particularly the proprietary High Definition Optics® (HDO®). This technology features razor-sharp clarity, impact resistance and UVA/UVB/UVC protection. With respect to resistance, Oakley is like no other in that they are designed to withstand high-mass and high-velocity impacts. Oakley lenses are incredibly durable, ensuring your eyes are protected in various scenarios and when it comes to biking, having this type of protection can be paramount should riders come across stray branches or flying debris while road riding.
Calgary Cycle has been carrying Oakley eyewear for 25+ years due to its creative styling and wide variety of design options. Customizable and ergonomic, these sunglasses, are mostly made using a material known as O Matter™, which is stress-resistant and lightweight. We carry sport-specific designs which is another feature Oakley showcases and why this brand is so popular with a variety of athletes. From anti-fog ventilation technology and Unobtainium® nose pads and ear socks that increase grip with perspiration, the Oakley eyewear line truly is outstanding.
When deciding which frames are best for you, Oakley’s custom program allows you to mix and match frame colors, lens tints, and more to create a pair that suits your personal style. From Frogskins™ lifestyle frames to the famous sporty Radar® EV Path® there is absolutely something for everyone. Currently both our Bow Trail and South locations carry a selection of Oakley glasses. We look forward to helping you find the perfect fit!
-The CC Team
WINTERIZING YOUR E-BIKE
A Guide to Protecting Your Battery
As the snow starts falling, it’s time to start thinking about how to properly store your e-bike for the winter months. A well-maintained e-bike can last for years, but improper storage—especially when it comes to the battery—can lead to issues come spring. Here’s a comprehensive guide to putting away your e-bike for the winter and keeping that crucial battery in top shape.
Before you store your bike, give it a thorough cleaning. Dirt and moisture can lead to corrosion and damage over time. Use a bike cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the frame, wheels, and components. Pay special attention to the drivetrain, as debris can lead to wear and tear. Avoid high pressure water for cleaning as it can force moisture into the bearings and be sure to dry your bike completely before storage.
The battery is the heart of your e-bike, and proper care during winter storage is crucial. Prior to storing, make sure your battery is charged to about 50-70%. This range is ideal for lithium-ion batteries during long periods of inactivity. Fully charging or completely discharging can shorten battery life.
If your e-bike allows it, remove the battery for storage. Keeping it in a stable, temperature-controlled environment (ideally between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius ) will prevent extreme temperature fluctuations that can harm the battery. Also, check for any updates required on your e-bike. Periodic updates are required for longevity and can be completed by contacting our Bow Trail or Pure Cycle location to book an appointment. You can also review the requirements through the battery brands App. Updates are approximately $25.00.
Even while in storage, it’s a good idea to check on your e-bike and battery every month. Ensure the battery is holding its charge and that no moisture has built up in your storage area. If necessary, top off the battery to maintain that 50-70% charge.
Visit any of our 3 locations to purchase specialized cleaning products or book an appointment for a pre-winter tune up. We highly recommend booking your tune up over the quieter winter months to avoid long wait times in the spring. We also have maintenance specials running, so when in doubt – reach out!
The CC Team
BENEFITS OF A SUSPENSION BIKE
There is a component to a bike that can significantly enhance the overall biking experience—bike suspension. Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, a city commuter, or a leisurely weekend rider, bike suspension offers a myriad of benefits that can transform your ride.
Improved Comfort - One of the most immediately noticeable benefits of bike suspension is the enhanced comfort it provides. By absorbing shocks and vibrations from rough terrain or uneven city streets, suspension systems ensure a smoother ride. This not only reduces fatigue on long rides but also makes cycling more enjoyable, allowing you to stay in the saddle longer without discomfort.
Enhanced Control and Stability - Suspension systems, particularly front and full suspension setups, significantly improve bike handling. By keeping the wheels in contact with the ground, suspension helps maintain traction and control over various surfaces. This is especially crucial when navigating rough trails or sudden obstacles, where stability can mean the difference between an exciting ride or an unfortunate spill.
Increased Speed on Rough Terrain - For mountain bikers and off-road enthusiasts, bike suspension is a game-changer. The ability to absorb and respond to rough terrain means that you can maintain higher speeds with greater confidence. suspension systems allow for more aggressive riding styles, enabling cyclists to tackle technical sections of a trail faster and with more precision.
Reduced Physical Strain - Cycling on rough or uneven surfaces without suspension can put significant strain on your hands, wrists, and lower back. Suspension systems help mitigate these impacts, distributing the forces more evenly across the bike. This not only protects your body from the jarring effects of rough terrain but also reduces the risk of injury over time.
Versatility Across Various Terrain and Improved Safety - A bike equipped with suspension is highly versatile and capable of handling a wide range of terrains. Whether you’re cruising on paved city streets, exploring gravel paths, or tackling challenging mountain trails, suspension systems adapt to the conditions, providing a balanced and responsive ride. In addition, this feature contributes to safer rides in general.
Our Calgary Cycle locations are home to a wide variety of front-suspension and full-suspension bikes. Come by and get familiar with all the brands and options to choose from. Remember Spring is just around the corner!
The CC Team
CHOOSING THE RIGHT GLOVES FOR WINTER RIDING
Keep Your Digits Warm During the Cold
Tis the season of fewer crowds on the trails, quiet, snow-dusted roads, and the challenge of pushing through colder conditions. However, those colder conditions also bring a host of challenges one being uncomfortable, damp or frozen hands. A high quality pair of winter bike gloves can make all the difference between a pleasant ride and a miserable one.
While cool weather riding, keeping your hands warm is crucial—not just for comfort but also for safety. Cold hands can lead to numb fingers, poor grip, and difficulty braking or shifting, which can increase your risk of injury. In addition to warmth, winter bike gloves should offer protection from the elements: wind, rain, snow, and sleet. A well-designed winter glove will keep your hands dry, reduce wind chill, and maintain dexterity, which is essential for controlling your bike in various weather conditions.
What to look for - When choosing the right winter bike gloves, there are several factors to keep in mind.
Insulation- Winter gloves need to trap heat while also allowing moisture to escape. Look for gloves with high-quality insulation materials like Primaloft, Thinsulate, or Merino wool. These materials provide excellent warmth-to-weight ratios without making the gloves too bulky or heavy.
Waterproofing and Wind proofing – Gloves made with Gore-Tex or similar materials will keep your hands dry. Look for gloves that offer windproof materials like tightly woven fabrics to protect you from strong winds.
Grip and Dexterity - Winter gloves can sometimes feel bulky, but for cycling, it’s important to maintain a good grip on your handlebars and be able to easily operate your brakes and gears. Look for gloves that feature grip-enhancing palms to keep your dexterity.
Adjustable Closures and Reflectivity - Winter gloves should cover your wrists and part of your forearms to prevent cold air from creeping in. Gloves with long cuffs or adjustable closures (like Velcro or zippers) help keep warmth in and cold air out. Additionally having visibility details is helpful as we all know how fast the sun goes down during winter months.
Pro Tip From Bow Trail Sales Manager Kirk: “For cold hands, using pogies will create another barrier against the elements and allows you to wear a thinner glove for dexterity. Plus, theres space inside for hot packs and/or snacks!”
Calgary Cycle offers a wide variety of winter gloves and fat bike handlebar “Pogies”. Visit our website or stop by to shop our varied brands such as Bontrager, Bar Mitts and 45NRTH.
The CC Team