NCBC Meetings

NCBC June 2010 meeting - Monday, June 21^st 6pm to 9:00pm
Blinco's Sports Restaurant and Bar
6711 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
[Directions]

Topic: The Importance of Bike Fit

Topic: Peloton Project

Presenter: Dwayne Allen, Tom Wood, and Todd Spain

The Peloton Project is a grass-roots effort devoted to creating a safer environment on the road by promoting positive attitudes between cyclists and motorists. Its focus is primarily the recreational group rides in North Carolina's Triangle area. As a newly formed 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, the Peloton Project is targeting law enforcement agencies, group ride leaders, cycling advocacy group cycling clubs, local bike shops, agencies/community action groups involved in bicycle transportation, and businesses with interest toward local community awareness/improvement programs.

The NCBC February program will include presentations by Peloton Project organizers and local group leaders Dwayne Allen, Tom Wood and Todd Spain. Representatives of the Apex and Cary police departments involved in community outreach will be on hand to briefly discuss the motorist perspective of group rides. It should be an enlightening discussion.

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month.

Topic:	The American Tobacco Trail
	and
	Triangle Rails to Trails Concervancy

Presenter: Bill Bussey

Bill Bussey is the Vice President of the Triangle Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (TRTC). He has been actively involved with the American Tobacco Trail (ATT) advocacy, planning and maintenance since 1995. He'll discuss progress, and sometimes lack thereof, on the completion of the ATT.

Bill will also discuss the little known facts and stories, things to look for on your ride, and what volunteers have been doing to make the ATT better. He'll have maps for all meeting attendees. Bring your questions, thoughts and insights for discussion.

For more information on the ATT, please check out the TRTC website at www.triangletrails.org. If you can't make the meeting, please email or call Bill anytime at mailto:americantobaccotrail@embarqmail.com or 919 545-9104.

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month.

Topic:	To "LEL" and Back, the 1400K London-Edinburgh-London 2009
	or
	You Mean I Rode 870 Miles and all I got was this Lousy T-Shirt?

Presenter: Mike Dayton

NCBC member Mike Dayton and 3 other NC Randonneurs traveled to England in late July for the fabled London Edinburgh London Grand Randonnée, a four-day, 870-mile ramble through the countryside of England and Scotland. Neither wind, nor rain nor dime-sized hail could keep these riders from their appointed rounds -- although it slowed their pace considerably.

Three months later, their luggage nearly dry, this hardy group of intrepid cyclists has agreed to tell all, literally spilling the beans on toast of their Transatlantic misadventure.

Join Mike on Oct. 19. He'll report, you decide whether the whole randonneuring crew is nuts or what.

Topic: RAGBRAI - Iowa's Rolling Folk Festival

Presenter: Gayle Lundeen, Katherine O'Malley, & Anyone Else who has been to RAGBRAI

Come and hear several club members discuss what it is like to participate in the oldest and largest cross-state bicycle ride. Recent and past participants will provide you with a pictorial glimpse into this ride and prove that what happens on RAGBRAI doesn't always stay on RAGBRAI, although maybe it should.

Whether you are looking for a serious biking challenge or for a rolling party, this may be the ride for you. We will share with you considerations for participation from costs to alternatives for logistics, to getting there and back again all the while giving you a flavor for the ride and why it attracts 15 - 30 thousand participants each year.

Also, find out how one church intervened to rescue the tent of one participant from a most unusual random act of nature.....

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month this time.

Topic: Bicycling Safety & Recent Related Legislation

Presenter: Gayle Lundeen [interactive session]

Please join us for a social meeting at Blinco's to discuss Bicycling Safety & recent legislation that affects bicycling. Are you bothered by recent efforts to impose "no more than two abreast" riding in groups? By efforts to limit riding to bike lanes, if they are present? Requiring cyclists to stay to the right?

We will honor our lost friend and colleague Bruce Rosar in discussing an issue that he strongly encouraged, and look for ways to add our support to improving road sharing for all road users.

Please note: For August we have reserved the smaller conference room near the front, on the right side. Blinco's was not able to give us our usual room this time. There should still be plenty of room for a late summer meeting.

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month.

Topic:Practical Bicycle Commuting

Presenter:David Cole

David Cole provided an informal and informative presentation & open discussion on all aspects of Bicycle Commuting. Various approaches and styles for bicycle commuting were discussed, as well as a variety of equipment. Examples were provided and passed around. Commuting in all kinds of weather was discussed, and so were techniques for dressing properly and maintaining a professional appearance at work. David is an experienced and knowledgeable commuter in the Triangle, as well as an engaging speaker.

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month this time.

Topic:Self Contained Touring in Michigan with Adventure Cycling

Presenter: Sara Huston

In September 2008, Gary Shaffer and Sara Huston did a 10-day self-contained bicycle tour with a small Adventure Cycling group. We started on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, at Petoskey State Park, and headed north into the Upper Penninsula. We visited three of the five great lakes, riding along the gorgeous shores of Lake Michigan, Superior, and Huron. We visited two engineering marvels, the Mackinac Bridge and the Soo Locks (and will answer the question of how a cyclist gets across the Straights of Mackinac). We carried all our gear, camped in Michigan's wonderful state parks, and did group cooking.

The slideshow will cover the route, training, logistics, local delicacies (whitefish and pasties), and the sites and beautiful scenery.

Please Note - Meeting is the second Monday of the month this time.

Topic: Bicycling in Vietnam

Presenters: Smith Doss & Claude Monnier

Smith and Claude spent two weeks sightseeing and cycling in Vietnam (this was not purely a cycling tour) exploring Northern, Central, and South Vietnam. We will talk about the planning and selection of the tour operator we chose, vaccinations, visas, etc.

Then the trip itself, highlights of the major geographical and historical sights both on and off the bike, as well as food and accomodations.

"We traveled on foot, bikes, bus, boats, train, airplane, but not a tandem!"

Followup Election - We will hold a followup election for NCBC Vice President at the start of this meeting. If anyone would like to come forward, two of us are doing double duty and we can sure use the help.

Topic: Folding Bicycles

Presenter: Brian Carver

We will also have our NCBC socks (just $7/pr.), and our remaining club jerseys will be available.

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

Annual Elections - We will hold our annual elections (delayed from December) at the start of this meeting. We still have at least one office to fill. Please attend, and help us make sure 2009 will be a good year for NCBC.

Slideshow Topic: Riding in Colorado

Presenters: Kevin & Friederike Jayes

Kevin and Friederike will present a slideshow of their ride in Colorado last summer. They gave us a teaser at the September meeting. This will be the director's cut including deleted scenes. Come see some beautiful scenes of Colorado and get some tips on how to enjoy a supported ride in another part of the country.

NCBC socks (just $7/pr.) and the remaining club jerseys will be available too!

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

Topic: RAGBRAI Ride Report

Presenter: Jerry Phelps

Jerry will present a slideshow of his experience during this year's Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa. If you've never heard of this cycling spectacle, you may want to check above your head (could be a large rock above you).

NCBC socks (just $7/pr.) and the remaining club jerseys will be available too!

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

Topic: Slideshow: Tandem Tour in Italy

Presenter: Carol Vilardo

Carol will share photos from their tour to the Venito region of Italy, which is close to some Giro Italia routes and just south of the Dolomites. Mike and Carol rode in the valleys not the mountains, though rides in the mountains were an option!

The new NCBC socks (just $7/pr.) and the remaining club jerseys will be available too!

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: Open Mike Night: What Bike Ride did YOU Do this Summer?

Moderator: Sara Huston

Come tell us about that epic ride you did this summer (or anytime in the past 12 months, we'll bend the rules a little) and hear about rides near and far from other NCBC folks. Come to share or just to listen.

No need to prepare! Just spend a few minutes (5-10 minutes or shorter if you want) telling us about your ride. What did you like best? How many feet of climb or mph of head wind? What surprised you the most? What would you do differently next time? Any spectacular mechanicals?

Bring a few photos (about 10 or less) on a memory stick or a pointer to your online photos and we'll put them up on the big screen. Or just do the old-fashioned way and bring a few print photos and any "artifacts" (brochures, maps, mangled bike parts, or what have you) to pass around.

The new NCBC socks (just $7/pr.) and the remaining club jerseys will be available too!

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: NCBC Web Site Improvement Workshop

Presenter: Scott Chilcote

The NCBC web site hasn't changed very much in recent years. We think it could be a lot more useful, and have been discussing ways to make it a valuable tool for bicyclists in the region. Please come and review our proposed changes, and share your ideas with us. We'll demonstrate some innovative web sites that other cycling organizations have developed, and discuss how to integrate the features we like best to our own advantage.

Have web development skills? We'd love to have your help!

This will be an open, social meeting, so if there's any other topic or suggestion you'd like to bring up don't hesitate.

The new NCBC socks (just $7/pr.) and the remaining club jerseys will be available too!

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

No meeting in July. Come to the Summer Rally!

Topic: Recovering from Sports Injuries

Speakers: Dr. Catherine Hoag

Chiropractor Dr. Catherine Hoag will do a presentation for us regarding sports injuries, including back problems, and how to recover from them. She is a triathlete herself and can offer us some interesting insights into different sports injuries of cyclists, their possible causes, and possible solutions.

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: Blood, Sweat, and Beers

Speakers: Carol Schroeder and Bruce Northcutt

Blood, Sweat, and Beers, or how a disparate group of Americans and one Canadian (self supported) traveled along the Danube and the Main, absorbed German culture and history, enjoyed local cuisine and beverages, and had adventures and misadventures along the way. Also included: helpful hints on planning and useful resources.

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/slideshow will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: Brevet Fever

Speakers: Lin Osborne and Dean Furbish

At the February meeting, we were treated to a slideshow of Paris-Brest-Paris 2007, the grandaddy of randonneuring events. How does one get to ride in such an event? NCBC has a randonneuring subculture that provides, among other things, a series of qualifying events for PBP. At the March meeting we will hear from Dean and Lin, two NCBC members who have embraced randonneuring with gusto. Is it a cult? I don't know. Come judge for yourself as Lin and Dean will present a slideshow and describe how to get into this aspect of riding, how to prepare yourself and your bike.

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: Paris Brest Paris 2007

Speaker: Jerry Phelps

In August 2007, over 5,300 cyclists, including 21 from North Carolina, attempted the 16th Paris-Brest-Paris 1200km randonnee in some of the worst conditions ever (cold, wind and rain). Come hear how the NC riders fared as Jerry Phelps shares pictures and stories from the road and other riders.

Come early (6pm) if you are planning on having dinner. Meeting/presentation will start at 7pm.

There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Topic: Social Gathering / Yankee Swap

Let's start off 2008 with a social gathering at a new location! I have reserved a private room at Blinco's [Blincos] and this should be a really nice setup. There is seating for up to 40 people with big TV and sound system that we can use for presentations. Blinco's also has a decent beer list and menu. No speaker planned for this meeting, but a couple of activities:

1. Yankee Swap
The main (but completely optional) activity will be a Yankee Swap. If you don't know what a Yankee Swap is, it's basically a gag gift exchange and is usually a lot of fun. A description of a Yankee Swap can be found here [Rules] If you'd like to participate in this optional activity, please bring a gag gift. This should ideally be something funny and bike-related. Re-gifts are encouraged. If you really feel you must purchase the gag gift, do not spend more than $15 or so. IMPORTANT: The gift needs to be wrapped, bagged, or otherwise concealed! Does not need to be fancy wrapping, just needs to conceal the contents.

2. 1304 Bikes Donation Opportunity
There will also be a box for donations of parts to 1304 Bikes. If you don't know who 1304 Bikes is, please check out their web site [1304 Bikes] If you have some useable parts that you would like to part with, the folks at 1304 are asking for: Metric wrenches, Metric allen keys, bike locks, 27-inch tires, 1/8" (single-speed) chains, Bikes of all types and sizes, Helmets (new or gently used), Chains, Grips, Cables (brake and shifter), Brake pads, Pedals, Patch kits, Lubricants, Rim strip. Please check their website for details.

Bring a dish to share. The club will provide a deli tray, and Al Johnson will provide his famous Christmas brew.

7pm meeting, dinner TBD

Topic: Bike Fit

Speaker: Matt Lodder

Arrive for dinner at 6:15pm, presentation starts at 7pm

Topic: Tandeming in New Zealand

Speaker: Carol Vilardo

Arrive for dinner at 6:15pm, presentation starts at 7pm

Topic: Bicycling in the Black Hills of South Dakota with Adventure Cycling

Speaker: Sara Huston

Eat/socialize from 6:00pm until 8:00pm

Topic: Social Gathering

Eat at 6:00pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: Pilgrimage from Le Puy, France to Santiago, Spain

Speaker: Bruce Northcutt

SOMEWHERE IN EUROPE, Circa MVI: He was very old, 20 years older than life expectancy in the year 1006. And he had sinned, or so he had been told by the village priest. So, now he was walking to earn his indulgence, the fast track of forgiveness. When he reached Santiago, his sins would be absolved and he would have an unobstructed path to heaven. Gerbert was illiterate. It didn't make any difference that he could not read for there were no road signs anyway or yellow arrows to mark the way. He was following his stride and his instincts in a westerly direction. He would average ten miles a day if his feet were not cut and blistered. The sun rose behind him and he followed it until it dipped below the horizon every evening. Then he would find a place to rest. He had no money and no maps. He was going to the end of the known world on faith. The relics of the disciple St. James were awaiting his arrival. It was a dangerous journey. The protectors of the way, the Knights Templar, would not be created for another 100 years. Bandits roamed the Pyranees, the same bandits who had attacked and killed Roland, Charlemagne's general who was bringing the Emperor's army out of Iberia. The First Reich was over 200 years in existence and still had 800 more years of glory. Roman numerals were still used for the math of the day. The Arabic number system was just beginning to become known in Gaul due to the study and efforts of Pope Silvester II. The discovery of the New World was still 500 miles in the future. The known end of the world was ahead of him, Finisterre. And along the way, each day was a day of survival; no hotels, no restaurants, no doctors. There was severe weather, overflowing streams and rivers, endless gorges, mountain snow, and sun baked plains. Many pilgrims did not make it to Santiago and their families never knew why they never returned. The were no post offices, no letters, no telephones, no trains or airplanes. No way of communicating their progress. And, the reward at the end, was to walk 1,000 miles back home, wearing a Galician scallop shell to prove the success of the pilgrimage. He did not know that 1,000 years later, many many generations later, his ancestor would follow in his footsteps, but in a luxury he could never know and at a speed that was incomprehensible.

LYON, FRANCE, August 20, 2006: The three of us started rolling, following the route of our ancestors who had made the same trip, 1,000 years before. We had maps, a compass, knowledge of what lie ahead, money, cell phones, and expectations of food and lodging every day. The trip took a month to cover 1,000 miles and follow in the footsteps of millions of feet over the centuries. If you want to hear of the journey, attend the NCBC presentation on June 4. For a preview, see these web sites.

crazyguyonabike

americanpilgrims

friends_usa_santiago

Bruce Northcutt

6:00pm (pizza) 7:00pm (presentation)

Topic: Tandem Touring in the French Alps…

Interested in hearing about some of the famous climbs of the French Alpes? May's NCBC meeting will have Smith and Claude telling of tall tales about their adventuring leading a tandem tour in the French Alpes over some of the famous and not so famous passes. This time the tales can not be so tall since there are witnesses to the actual events. As in the past we will start with some pizza to get everyone in the mode. Then we will show some pictures of the trip.

Pizza will be provided. Please RSVP to WeTandem@nc.rr.com so we know how many pizzas to order.

6:00pm

Topic: Social gathering…

Please note that this is a change from the original plan published in the newsletter.

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: BMB with Jerry Phelps!

Boston-Montreal-Boston—Join Jerry Phelps as he recalls the August BMB 2006—well, actually its Newton-Huntingdon-Newton but who ever heard of them? 1200 km with 40,000 ft of cumulative climbing in 81 hours and 40 minutes made BMB the most challenging ride he's ever completed. Enjoy the scenery in a more civilized manner and learn more about randonneuring just in time to begin the qualifying rides for Paris-Brest-Paris in August 2007.

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: Esther Lumsdon and Scott Chilcote participated in the 2006 Face of America ride on April 29-30, 2006, organized by World T.E.A.M. Sports (The Exceptional Athlete Matters). This event was a two-day inclusive bike ride from Gettysburg to Washington, DC to honor and assist our disabled veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. An increasing number of veterans from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars are returning home to the United States with disabilities. WTS works to increase and promote inclusive sports opportunities for all people, especially reaching out to disabled people. They create teams of people with and without disabilities for their events. Many of you know that Scott is able-bodied, and that Esther has been a below knee amputee for a long time. So, Scott and Esther have experience in being part of an inclusive team, in marriage and in riding a tandem.

Scott and Esther will talk about the ride, and show the short documentary film about the event. The slogan for World T.E.A.M. Sports is "We all ride the same road."

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: Cycling Performance Tips with Lal Chand

Lal Chand from Athletic Edge will be on hand to discuss Cycling Performance Tips. Lal explains, "Cycling regularly is great for lower body strength, but leaves a lot to be desired for the upper body muscle group. A reasonable approach is to focus on building strength (not bulk) during the winter and maintaining it during the peak riding season."

Bring a dish to share. The club will provide a deli tray, and Al Johnson will provide his famous Christmas brew.

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: Cycyling Southern England with Rich Giroux

Rich Giroux does something that most of us only fantasize about - taking off on solo oveseas cycling tours. Earlier this year Rich was in southern England, and he'll be sharing his pictures, stories, and insights at our next club meeting. Rich's photo travelogues are always a delight, and you won't want to miss this one. Maybe you'll learn enough, and be inspired enough, to launch off on your own adventure!

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: GPS and Cycling

Ever gotten lost in the countryside and really, really wanted to know the fastest way back? Or, wanted to plan a route and be able to take advantage of the latest technology? Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers allow you to do just that and much more, provided you know how to use them.

For our October meeting, Scott Chilcote will share his experience with using GPS with cycling. He'll present,

1. Using a GPS receiver to find your way around on a bike ride
2. Using a GPS receiver and Mapping Software to see where you've been after a ride, and how much you've climbed
3. Using Mapping Software to plan future bicycle trips and generate cue sheets

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: American Tobacco Trail and more

Think that the American Tobacco Trail is just for off-road cycling? Do you know that many cyclists from Durham commute to RTP on the trail, that the trail is being completed through Chatham County, and that there are even discussions about extending the trail to Raven Rock State Park? Come learn about this and much more when Bill Bussey, president of the Triangle Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, talks about his favorite subject at our next club meeting on September 11th. You'll be suprised at how much converted rail corridors have to offer, for all types of cyclists.

Eat at 6:15pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: NCBC Social

Come enjoy a pint of your favorite brew and and chat with your NCBC friends. We'll have informal discussions on a variety of topics. Come early if you want to eat, then stay as long as you want.

Topic: "Tandem Test Rides!"

All Star Bike Shop is THE expert when it comes to tandems, and owner Jeff Hutchinson and staff will be sharing their expertise at the north Raleigh Store on Monday, June 5. In addition to show-and-tell, All Star will be offering test rides on a variety of new tandems. So, bring your helmet and whatever riding clothes you want with you. Expect to learn a lot, meet some good folks, and have fun!

Topic: "Practical bicycle commuting - hints and tips from the guys who have been doing it for years"

May is bike-to-work month, and with gas prices climbing higher, bicycle commuting is becoming more and more attractive. Interested in commuting but not sure how to start? Already commuting and have some insights to share? Then come to the May NCBC meeting where NCBC veterans will talk about their experiences with bicycle commuting. This will be an active group discussion, along with some show-and-tell. Bring your questions to ask or your own experiences to share!

As always, come early (6:15) if you want to eat, and the meeting will start around 7:00.

Arrive at 6:30 for pizza, meeting starts at 7:00

Topic: "Northwest Tandem Rally and exploring Oregon"

In July 2005, Smith Doss and Claude Monnier participated in the Northwest Tandem Rally in Bend, OR. 12 teams stayed a few more days in central Oregon to discover the natural wonders of the Cascade Mountains and Crater Lake. Come see pictures and hear tales from the rally, and the trip that followed.

Although this was a tandem event, the meeting is by no means tandem specific!

In order to properly plan for this sure-to-be-popular event, please RSVP to David Cole if you hope to attend.

Topic: Gilbert!

Gilbert Anderson, co-owner of North Road Bicycle Company, has been part of the Triangle cycling scene for decades. Gilbert has previously worked at All Star Bike Shop, raced locally, completed numerous Paris-Brest-Paris brevets, and is a former NCBC president. Anyone who's met Gilbert comes away impressed with his love of cycling, his collection or arcane bikes and gear, and his many, many stories to tell. On Monday, March 6 Gilbert will be on hand to talk about his history of cycling, and, well, probably an unpredictable set of other stories, too.

This promises to be another fun and informative event. Come early (6:15) if you want to eat, and the meeting will start around 7:00.

Topic: Bike Trek Across America

This past summer, long-distance cyclists Brian Burnham and Greg Mu from Chapel Hill led a group of six local teens on a bicycle journey across America, from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic. They did this for the raw adventure, and to raise funds for the American Heart Association and the Carolina Covenant. The group departed San Francisco on June 13, heading east, and arrived in Norfolk, VA some two months later. Their adventures were documented in the Chapel Hill News (with links in the NCBC Community).

On Monday, February 6, co-leader Brian Burn will share his story about crossing the country on bike. You can get an idea of the saga by reading the posts in the community forum and perusing the ride's web site at http://www.bikeforeducation.com/index.html. But, you definitely want to hear Brian's story, see the pictures, and appreciate the accomplishment of riding over 3200 miles (literally) cross-country. It might just inspire you to do something you never thought possible!

Topic: NCBC Social and 2006 Planning

What better way to start the cycling New Year than to get together with your NCBC friends, enjoy a pint of your favorite brew (and perhaps some Italian food), and talk about your cycling adventures from the past year and your plans/resolutions/hopes for 2006! Our January club meeting will be a combination social and planning event. We want your input on cycling events, meeting topics, and any other ideas you may have on how to improve the club. Please come at 6:15 or so if you want to eat, and the formal meeting will start around 7:00.

Bring a dish to share. The club will provide a deli tray, and Al Johnson will provide his famous Christmas brew.

Topic: "THERE IS NO OFF-SEASON: Fun and Fitness on the Bike through Winter"

Lori Hoefer, three-time NY State Masters Road Champion and co-owner of Cycling Specifics, will speak to the importance of winter training in her award-winning career on the bike and provide useful tips. Laurin Stennis, USAC Licensed Race Mechanic and co-owner of Cycling Specifics, will cover the basics of winter bike care and maintenance.

We'll be meeting again at Amedeo's restaurant on Western Blvd in Raleigh. Come early (I recommend 6:15) to eat, and the club meeting will start around 7:00.

Topic: "Cycling the Virginia Creeper and New River Trails"

NCBC VP David Cole will show pictures and talk about cycling the Virginia Creeper and New River Trails is southern Virginia. Think of yourself as a road cyclist and not interested in riding multi-use trails? The scenery here may change your mind, and the 17 mile climb from Damascus to White Top will certainly give you a workout (or, you can be shuttled to the top and coast downhill all the way!). These and similar trails offer a wonderful cycling experience, for both experienced cyclists and newcomers to the sport.

We'll be trying another new location - Amedeo's restaurant on Western Blvd in Raleigh. The NCBC met there years ago - we'll give it another go. Come early (I recommend 6:15) to eat, and the club meeting will start around 7:00.

Topic: "Joe Miller presents Cycle NC"

Famed Raleigh News and Observer outdoors writer Joe Miller (see his blog at http://blogs.newsobserver.com/joemiller/) will speak about his experiences and observations riding Cycle NC, North Carolina's own cross-state bicycle tour. This should be an informative and entertaining event - one you don't want to miss!

We will be meeting at a new location- the Hibernian Pub in Raleigh at 311 Glenwood Avenue (very near Gilbert Anderson's North Road Bicycle Company, if you're familiar with his shop). We'll have the old Sunflowers building all to ourselves. Come early (I recommend 6:15) to enjoy their fine fare, and the club meeting will start around 7:00.

Vacation!

The NCBC will go on a summer vacation of sorts. We'll skip the August meeting, and then resume on Monday, September 12 (since the first Monday in September is Labor Day).

Get outside, enjoy the summer, and get some miles in! We can talk about it in September.

Topic: "Sports Injury Prevention and Treatment"

Ever wondered how the Tour riders can rider so hard day after day? Ever noticed that pro teams include a masseur, and that maybe massage has something to do with injury prevention and recovery? On Monday, July 11, the NCBC will meet at Sammy's Tap and Grill to hear Lal Chand of Athletic Edge speak about injury prevention and treatment, with a focus on massage therapy. Lal will discuss three common cycling ailments: Handlebar Palsy (Ulnar Neuropathy), Low Back Pain (Iliopsoas), and IT Band Friction Syndrome.

Come out, enjoy a pint with your friends, and learn a thing or two about how to keep yourself strong in the saddle!

Arrive at 6:30 for pizza, meeting starts at 7:00

Topic: "Tandeming in the Pyrenees"

Last summer Smith Doss and Claude Monnier organized a tandem trip to the Pyrenees. For the June NCBC meeting, they'll show their stunning photographs of climbs and scenery made famous by the Tour de France, as well share their experience with trip planning, traveling with big bikes, and training for such an epic ride. Come enjoy some good company, good wine, and travel tales that will make you want to start packing for Europe!

For a preview of a few of the photos you'll see, click here.

In order to properly plan for this sure-to-be-popular event, please RSVP to David Cole if you hope to attend.

Eat at 6:30 at Andy's Pizza (on Millbrook side of Quail Corners), meeting starts at 7:00

Topic: "Tandems!"

All Star Bike Shop is THE expert when it comes to tandems, and owner Jeff Hutchinson will be sharing his expertise at the north Raleigh Store on Monday, May 2. Riding opportunities will be available, so bring your helmet and whatever riding clothes you want with you. Expect to learn a lot, meet some good folks, and have fun!

Eat at 6:30 at Bear Rock Cafe (next door to Spin Cycle), meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: "Principles of Training and Racing"

Ever though about racing? Wondered what it might be like, and how you might get started? Get all those questions answered at The Spin Cycle on Monday, April 4.  Saul Yeaton, USCF coach will talk about training and Janet Edgerton will talk about racing. Spin Cycle sponsors both women's and men's race teams and this will be a great opportunity to learn more about it and to get involved. Female cyclists will particularly benefit from Janet's experience.

(Meeting will end in time to see NCAA finals which start at 9:00.)

Meet at Cycling Spoken Here in Cary at 7:00

Topic: "Getting back on the bike"

The winter off-season is ending, and it's time to get back on the bike! Carolyn Gentry and the staff at Cycling Spoken Here will cover a variety of topics that will get you ready to ride, covering everything from training techniques to the latest cycling equipment and accessories. Come join the fun, meet some friends, and get enthused about cycling!

Eat at 6:30 at Armadillo Grill, meet at Cycling Specifics at 7:00

Topic: "A Cycling Resource Center for the Triangle: Skills, Fits, and Fitness at Cycling Specifics"

"A Cycling Resource Center for the Triangle: Skills, Fits, and Fitness at Cycling Specifics" followed by a free introductory MultiRider session for the first five (5) club members who sign up (the riders will need to bring their bikes and riding clothes/shoes). And as is always the case after a MultiRider session, riders will receive a Performance Data form with their ride stats (watts output, speed, ride time, etc) from the evening.

Anyone interested in the CompuTrainer workout should contact David Cole at .

Eat at 6:30pm, meeting from 7:00 - 8:30pm

Topic: NCBC Social

Come enjoy a pint of your favorite brew and and chat with your NCBC friends. We'll have informal discussions on a variety of topics. Share your ideas with our new club officers! Come early if you want to eat, then stay as long as you want.

Bring a dish to share. The club will provide a deli tray, and Al Johnson will provide his famous Christmas brew.

Topic: "Touring Ireland with Rich Giroux"

Rich Giroux will show slides from his recent trip to Ireland and provide hints and tips for extended touring in Europe.

Topic: "How To Improve Cycling Performance Through Fast Coaching" by Line Dempsey, Coach/Exercise Physiologist

Topic: "Power Measuring Equipment"

Brandon Brown will present and demonstrate the latest power measuring equipment. Afterwards, club members may get their own performance graphed for a 12 second test. Bring your pedals, shoes, and attitude!

Topic: "Practical bicycle commuting - hints and tips from the guys who have been doing it for years"

David Cole, Adrian Hands, Bruce Rosar, and Steve Goodridge will talk about their experiences with bicycle commuting. This will be a group discussion, along with some show-and-tell. Bring your questions to ask or your own experiences to share.