sneak peek at what's ahead!!!
/I have returned from my foray to nor cal and my annual pilgrimage to do the Levi Leiphimer Gran Fondo. Let's just say it was not as successful as I hoped, but I am still very proud of not taking the easy road out and doing a shorter route than I signed up for. I registered for the gran with 108 miles and almost 10K of climbing. But my training wasn't there and though I made the first timed cut off, and up two big ascents on King Ridge Road, I ran out of time and water stations were closing. I turned back and was picked up by a sag vehicle. The sad thing is that I wasnt tired or sore at all after 42 miles and I know that if I had just had more time I could have made it. Even though King Ridge was like GMR and Vista Ridge had some evil baby. Steeeep and long and it was 95 up on the mountain. Enough said. I still had a celebratory beer after. No fear.
A couple programs you might want to check out at the store:
- "Try it before you buy it": we all know that how cycling clothes LOOK and how they feel whilst riding are two different things. I am setting up a trainer and encourage you to bring your bike (or use one of mine) to take your shorts/bibs/jerseys out for a little test spin. A couple of pedal strokes will tell you whether those shorts are gonna ride up to where the sun don't shine. Everybody is different, so take advantage. Just don't break a sweat!
- "Shrink to fit": I cater to women of all sizes in the shop (xs-3X), but sometimes we use cycling for fitness and weight loss. And lets be honest...we didn't pick the cheapest sport! Good clothing costs good money. So what to do when you lose weight and need a smaller jersey? If you buy a jersey from us, and drop down a size, you give me back that jersey and I will give 50% off a jersey of equal or lesser value in that smaller size. Maybe we can have a "wall of fame" or donate those jerseys to new riders.
- I will be providing full service at the shop and two lines of bikes in women's sizes (44-55) in the store: Bianchi Dama Bianca line as well as Volagi bikes. They are GORGEOUS, fantastic bikes. There will be a full price range of bikes, aluminum and carbon, and even a hybrid thrown in there. I would not sell what I would not ride, and I love these bikes.
As far as clothing goes...xs-3X with brands such as GORE, Giordana, Sheila Moon, Terry, Road Holland, Sugoi, Canari, Hincapie. For the spring: shebeest (Heck ya! Its coming back!), Maloja, Active Angelz. Socks from swiftwick, shoes and helmets from Giro, Shimano and Uvex. Nutrition from skratch labs, first endurance, Honey stinger, and clif. The list goes on an on.
Last but not least...I am excited to share our first "special event" with you!
On November 1st at 630pm Andi Neugarten will be in the store to introduce her new line of beautiful women's specific active wear. Cycling and tri clothing. I saw the line at inter bike and it is beautifully made and designed clothing that is very flattering and different. I will be stocking the line when it drops in the spring but this is your chance to take a sneak peek at it, try it on, and talk with Andi about her vision. I am happy to support this woman-owned business and know you will love the product. You can see their designs here. Adult beverages and refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP for the event on The Unlikely Cyclist facebook page here
I want to be the source for women cyclists in this area. No more women in men's clothing. No more intimidation or feeling of shame to get on a bike. All women can ride. Are you up for the challenge?
The Unlikely Cyclist opens Friday 10/12 at 11am at 1763 Irvine Ave, Space L. Across the street from Kean coffee in the 7 eleven mini mall. Yes, you can ride and get your slurpee on too.
The webstore will open (hopefully) the same day as the shop. Store hours: Tues-Friday 11-630, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-4. Closed on Mondays.
Sign up for our e-mail newsletter here