Monday, August 4, 2008

Future Cycling Meeting with Billy Kenoi

Hello cyclists!

Within the next two weeks the Hilo Bike Hub will be holding a cycling meeting with input from mayoral candidate Billy Kenoi. His objectives will be covering cycling as transportation, commuting routes, bike lanes, and cycling in the school systems.

We will be holding this meeting only if enough people are in attendance. If you are at all interested please contact: hilobikehub@gmail.com and we will decide on a date and time.

Remember, if Hilo is to become a bike safe community, we need as much support as possible. We hope you’ll join us.

The Staff at Hilo Bike Hub

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

May-August 2008 Newsletter

A Quick Congrats



The staff at Hilo Bike Hub would like to congratulate all of those who competed at the Honu Half Ironman in May, over in Waikoloa. A quick shout out to Casey Francis, Ben Pappas, Lee Collins, Neil Sampson, Billy Weaver, Joe Wedeman, Ty Blechta and Tim Marr for representing East Hawaii and making us all very proud. A quick mention to Morgan Bahurinsky for her first attempt at the half ironman distance – its all apart of the learning experience! We look forward to many more exceptional results from all of you in the future.


Flats 101


We will be offering a quick course on how to change flat tires on Saturday August 2nd at 11am. The class will offer an overview on how to properly take your front and back wheels off, removing the tire and tube, and correctly put them back on. This groundwork is crucial for your overall knowledge and safety of your bicycle. Classes are limited in size so hurry and reserve a slot for our August class. Bring 3 levers, a spare tube and either a hand or floor pump. Classes are $10. To sign up call: (808) 961 - 4452 or email: hilobike@gmail.com

High Gas Prices Equals More Commuting

For those of us who have enjoyed being in the saddle as a way of life, this is not much of a change or a burden. But to the rest of Hilo, the high gas prices have changed many people’s views on cycling. They have either began taking out their old bikes from the depths of storage, to purchasing new machines. Our store has seen a dramatic rise in commuting and cycling awareness as a whole.

An incredibly wide demographic of people are no longer afraid to ride in the rain, nor are they afraid to ride on Hilo’s busiest streets. Our East Hawaii residents are realizing that, not only is cycling is good for their health, but that they can save money, namely on gas and insurance.

Therefore, as more and more bike commuters are hitting the roads, drivers must learn to treat cyclists as other vehicles; just as cyclists must follow and understand the rules of the road. Essentially, separate routes for cyclists would be the ideal situation, however this is not a reality at this moment in time. It is therefore essential that cyclists and cars learn how to share the road.

Here are a few rules to follow in order to make your next ride/commute a safe one:

1. Always stop for red lights and stop signs, along with any other sign.

2. Ride on the same side of the street as you would drive in a car.

3. Before turning, look behind you and signal your turn.

4. Any vehicle moving slower than the normal flow of traffic should drive as far in the right hand lane as possible, except when preparing to turn left. Steer clear of sewer grates, debris, potholes, and parked car doors. Never compromise your safety for the convenience of motorists behind you.

5. Make sure your brakes are working properly.

6. Make sure you have the proper reflective gear and lighting when riding early near dusk or dawn.

7. Always be aware of your surroundings and predict accidents that may arise, before they happen.

8. Always, always, ALWAYS wear your helmet.

9. Carry your registration, along with another form of identification.

10. Remember to come into the Hilo Bike Hub if you have any questions with regards to your bike or to bike safety in Hilo.

Let’s exercise safe awareness… our community will greatly benefit in the long run!
Chris’ Commuter Route Suggestions

*Use Kino’ole St. instead of Kilauea
*Use Haili St. or Mohouli instead of Waianuenue
*Remember you can still get to places on these roads by using alternate sideroads
*Stay off the sidewalk as much as possible – sidewalks are more dangerous to cyclists than actually riding on the road!


New Jerseys

University of Hawaii Jerseys are in stock in all sizes. Wear these stylish, race-cut outfits to show your support for our Hawaii community.

New Blog Up and Running!


Testing, testing...1,2,3.