Rochester Bicycling Club News Blog

Payment Processing Change Has Been Completed

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 21:21:55 GMT

The online payment processing system changed from PayPal to another system run by Affinipay on April 1, 2020. This effects all on-line payments for memberships, events, or purchases. This is being done to avoid a 20% surcharge being imposed by our website provider, Wild Apricot. Most people should not notice much difference. You will no longer get an email from PayPal. If you had your own PayPal account you used to pay your membership you will no longer be able to do that.

Richard DeSarra

Sat, 14 Sep 2019 16:18:27 GMT

(This is the full obituary. An abbreviated version will appear in the Sunday, Sept 15th , D&C.) It will be helpful for planning if you would RSVP to the Rememberance Celebration.)

Richard L. DeSarra

ROCHESTER – Friday, September 6, 2019, at age 80, following a battle with cancer. He is survived by his brother, Donald, and a large community of friends he considered family.

Born and raised in Rochester, Richard attended Ben Franklin High School (’57) and graduated from RIT (’64). He worked at Burroughs, Marine Midland Bank, RG&E, and Wegmans, among others. His love of bicycling led him to open Freewheelers sporting goods shop (specializing in bicycles) on Culver Road, which he ran with his business partner from 1971 to 1987.

Richard passionately advocated for anything that encouraged bicycling for transportation or recreation. His advocacy led to significant changes to Monroe County’s bicycling environment including bike racks on all RTS buses, bike lanes, and so much more. He was a member of the Rochester Bicycling Club and served in various board positions. He co-founded the Rochester Cycling Alliance, served on the board of the New York Bicycle Coalition and the Advisory Council of Reconnect Rochester, and worked with town and city planners from around Monroe County.

Richard also volunteered for a battered women’s shelter, the American Red Cross disaster response team, and the MS Society, serving on the steering committee of the MS Finger Lakes Bike Tour from 1991 to 2014.

Richard loved books, movies, and music, especially jazz and opera. He joined RIT’s Osher Institute where he enjoyed many courses and led bike rides and some courses on the works of female movie directors.

During his final days, Richard expressed his heartfelt appreciation for all his friends.

Private burial. Friends are invited to attend a Remembrance Party at Lakefront Lodge, Webster Park, 1120 Lake Rd. (corner of Holt Rd.) on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Please consider bringing a snack or dessert to share. RSVPs helpful: RochesterBicyclingClub.org

Donations in his memory may be made to R Community Bikes (PO Box 26471, Rochester NY 14626) or the National MS Society (1000 Elmwood Ave., Suite 900, Rochester, NY 14620).

Blood Drive in Memory of Jerry Vogt

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 14:28:10 GMT

Rochester Tour de Cure is seeking SAG drivers

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 18:52:57 GMT

The Rochester Tour de Cure is seeking 9 volunteers to serve as SAG drivers for this year’s event on June 8. SAG drivers are crucial to the safety and enjoyment of our participants. We appreciate your time and talent and can offer our deepest gratitude (and you’ll get lots of that the day of event, too!), a volunteer shirt, Food Truck dinner coupon & a beer after your shift, and a $50 gift card to Park Ave Bike Shop.

SAG vehicle driver requirements include:
- Valid NYS Driver License
- Willingness to drive a 4--hour shift on June 8 in a designated zone
- Willingness to pull off the road to answer calls or texts from the Command Center and respond to cyclists in need OR have a HAM radio operator in the truck with you (please let me know your preference)
- Ability to assist cyclists with minor mechanical issues (tire-changing clinics are available at Towpath Bike) minor first aid or transport for them and their bike to a rest stop (we provide all supplies)
- Willingness to help remove some route signs on your drive back (afternoons)
- Able to attend volunteer meeting Monday, May 20 at Webster Recreation Center 6:15 to 7 p.m.*
- Able to pick up vehicle from Van Bortel Ford on Friday, June 7, drive it to the event June 8 and then return it to Van Bortel after your shift.

If this all sounds like something you are willing and able to do please Kerrie Merz know at kmerz@diabetes.org and go to this link and fill in the form, selecting “SAG Driver” from the list of jobs. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1HeJTqNiMVWx5ZgD94kU_Lt0Rd2338IbWIVC1RxlXmJ8/viewform?edit_requested=true

*if you can’t make the volunteer meeting we can meet another time

Spring Banquet and Awards

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 13:08:48 GMT

Let's get this party started! ....the 2019 cycling season. It's been a long winter.

Hope to see you on Saturday April 6th. Bring A DISH TO SHARE - we always end up with a nice variety.

The location is Dolomite Lodge, at Jackson Rd and Atlantic Ave, in Penfield Town Hall Campus.

For those who plan to do the ride, it starts at 2:00 PM. See Ride Details: Walworth Wanderer.

The lodge will be open, so you can go in and socialize after the ride. Otherwise please be there at 5:00 PM. We'll aim to eat at 5:30, followed by the Awards Presentation.

Spring Cleaning? If you'd like to unload jerseys and/or cycling gear, mark the items with your name and a price, and it may sell during the gathering! We'll have the usual "5 and 10" table.

Ride leader packets will be available for pickup.

RBC 2019 Clinics

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 15:50:39 GMT

The riding season is approaching and the club clinics are ready. This year will see some changes and retain some similarities too. The same cast of characters will lead the clinics with one possible exception.

Our venue has moved to Penfield, their Recreational Center on Baird Rd has offered to host our clinics and also handle the registration process. Only the Spring dates are listed and available for registration for now, later dates will be added soon.

The schedule is posted on the club’s website at:

https://rbc.wildapricot.org/Clinics

The Penfield Recreational Center’s website at:

https://webtrac.penfield.org

Go to their Educational page and enter search words “bike club” to bring up the clinic offers. Each clinic requires an attendee registration. Only the Flat Tire and the Safety Classes have a class limit. This is shared between the club membership and the general public. I suggest sign-ing up early to insure attendance for these two clinics.

2019 Tour de Cure RBC Team

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 21:19:45 GMT

Last year, RBC had an outstanding first year in the Rochester Tour de Cure and ended up being one of the leading teams.

Registration is now open for the next one - it's June 8, 2019. We would love to have you join us!

There is a ride for everyone - routes of 3, 15, 25, 40, 62 and 100 miles. Pick your mileage. Grab a friend to ride with. Choose your pace. (It’s NOT a race!) Riders on all routes receive the same fabulous rest stop and SAG support.

Here are a few reasons to join NOW:

-- Training opportunities! Midtown Athletic club will be offering indoor training in their cycling studio on weekends, from January through mid-April, free of charge for all registered riders. Tryon Bike will also be offering indoor training. Stay tuned for details.

Register now and save.

There are more than 30 million people in the US who live with diabetes every day. Funds raised through this event are used for research, preventive education, advocacy, parent support, summer camp and more. By joining and riding, you can make a difference!

The Rochester Tour de Cure was the #1 Tour in the country again in 2018, with over 2,000 participants. The 2019 Tour promises to be as successful and a huge source of pride for cyclists in our region. Let’s show up and present a strong RBC presence!

If you're interested being on the RBC team, go to RBC Tour de Cure Team and click on “Join Our Team.”

Team captains Todd Calvin and Bonnie MacLean are eager to grow the team, answer your questions and provide support. Please contact them with any questions.

Bonnie: bonniesmaclean@gmail.com
Todd: tcalvin001@hotmail.com

Safe Riding Tips

Sat, 01 Sep 2018 10:30:17 GMT

Safety tips:

Don’t overlap wheels

Don’t pass on right

Announce presence when behind/beside others

Don’t lurk in blind-spots

No sudden speed/line changes

Look beyond rider in front of you

Don’t call “clear” at intersections

Regroup *beyond* intersections

Pull fully off the road when pausing (maintenance, adjustments, discussions, etc.)

Get a Road ID, or carry equivalent info on person/bike

Beware of “first hill” slowdowns/breakups in groups (especially during startup)

*Gently* find your place as startup crowd thins out

Cool your jets! - Not a race, so don’t tempt/escalate others

Limit chatter/tinkering - Give *full* attention to situation around you!

Be predictable to all (riders, traffic and pedestrians). No sudden moves!

Steve Riegel, Ride Chair

Cyclocross Group Training Rides and Clinics

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 23:32:22 GMT

Have an interest in learing about and trying cylcocross? Then these clinics are for you.

RBC Tour de Cure Team

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 10:26:05 GMT

This year, for the first time, RBC will have a Tour de Cure Team! You’re invited to join us to represent Rochester Bicycling Club at the largest cycling event in our area. (The Rochester Tour de Cure is the #1 Tour in the country, with over 2,000 participants.)

The date is Saturday June 9, 2018. For more information, our team page is diabetes.org/rbc .

- It's a great cause, and by participating, you can make a difference. There are more than 30 million people in the US who live with diabetes every day. Funds raised are used for research, education, advocacy, parent support, summer camp and more.

- There is a ride for everyone - routes of 3, 15, 25, 40, 62 and 100 miles. Choose your pace. It's not a race.

- To help you prepare, there are training rides each week. Now that the snow has stopped, the outdoor ones are starting! (RBC rides are great training, but there is another whole set of rides that bring folks from many local teams together.)

- At this time, the RBC team is among the top 10 teams in our category, and....we have a shot at being the "Rookie Team of the Year!" The team is growing...let's do this!

Never been part of the Tour? Here is a great video to get a sense of what Tour Day looks like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj1v5IcTBWA&t=146s

If interested or you have questions, please contact team captains Todd Calvin and Bonnie MacLean.

Todd: tcalvin001@hotmail.com
Bonnie: bonniesmaclean@gmail.com

Jerry Vogt

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 20:11:18 GMT

We are sad to report that Jerry Vogt passed away on November 21st. Many of you know Jerry suffered a bike accident resulting in very serious injuries.

More information in the D&C Obit below:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/democratandchronicle/obituary.aspx?n=jerry-vogt&pid=187343356

President

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 10:04:39 GMT

Todd Calvin has stepped down as President to deal with family health issues. In the mean time Brad Jensen will serve as Acting President.

2017 Adventure Cycling Tours

Fri, 23 Dec 2016 15:24:13 GMT

Well, we sure "Got Our Kicks" in 2016 ... on Route 66! Just like the Bobby Troup song says!

Leading tours for Adventure Cycling each year has become a real mainstay of my retirement from "Real Work". I can't think of anything I'd rather do. And 2017 looks to be even more fun with my getting assigned to lead TWO epic tours for Adventure Cycling Association.

The first one starts in San Diego on March 12. We're going cross-country, van-supported, to St. Augustine Florida on the Southern Tier Route! This tour is one of Adventure Cycling's most popular routes as it's a coast-to-coast ride, but at 3100 miles, it's the shortest and perhaps most accessible of the big three. Both the Northern Tier and the Trans-Am are at least 1000 miles longer. The Southern Tier is so popular, we run TWO van-supported runs in the spring and a self-contained run in the fall. In fact, the first run in 2017 is already sold out! Not to worry ... if this is your "Dream Tour in Waiting", you're in luck ... the second running that I am co-leading is NOT yet sold out. Check out the details at:

http://www.adventurecycling.org/guided-tours/van-supported-tours/2017-southern-tier-ii-van/

Yes, that tour is on the road for two months! Too much time away, maybe? Afraid the lawn might look a little too scraggly? Could you get away with just three weeks? If yes, You're In Luck! The second "Epic" tour I'm doing is, like my Route 66 tour, another Brand New tour for Adventure Cycling on a Brand New Route: Chicago to New York City! This tour is just over 1200 miles in 23 days, also van-supported, and visits the big towns of Indianapolis Indiana, Columbus Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but also countless little towns and burbs. It's a special kind of route in that it makes extensive use of the rapidly developing U.S. Bicycle Route System.

We hit the road from the Windy City on June 6th, arriving at Battery Park in the Big Apple on June 28th. Details are here ...

http://www.adventurecycling.org/guided-tours/van-supported-tours/2017-chicago-to-new-york-van/

... but you can also get the inside scoop regarding BOTH of these tours by emailing me at bmanagan@adventurecycling.org.

An here's an incentive for RBC members. On either of these tours, if you gather four of your RBC member riding buddies to make a group of five, you can each get a 20% discount off the price of the tour. Really. I can give you the details. You're special!

See you on the Road!

Brian Managan - Tour Leader - Life Member

bmanagan@adventurecycling.org

Adventure Cycling Association

RBC President, Mark Robbins, returning to his duties as President

Thu, 19 May 2016 18:08:08 GMT

From Mark,

Effective today (Aug 5) I will be resuming my duties as Board President.

I'd like to thank all for their support during what has been a difficult period and would particularly like to thank Elaine for service as President these past few months.

Mark

From Mark,

This is to confirm and clarify my announcement at our 5/10 Board Meeting that, effective immediately, I be taking leave from my position as President of RBC. I came to this decision after careful consideration of the various demands I've been experiencing associated with my father's medical issues which have necessitated my spending significant time out of town as well as the demands on my time associated with the impending sale of my home (we are preparing our current home to go on the market and expect to close on our new condo in Victor during late July).

Since our 5/10 Mtg. I've spoken with Elaine and she is ready and able to step up to the President's role during my leave. Thank you, Elaine!! It is my intent to remain on the Board and attend meetings and otherwise participate, as able. It is my hope that I'll be able to resume my duties as President as circumstances allow.

Mark

Bike Week Kick-Off

Tue, 10 May 2016 12:57:14 GMT

Monday, May 16

Mayoral Proclamation Kick-Off Event & Bike Boulevard Ride: 10:00am
Meet at Morrison Park, near the corner of Culver Rd. & Harvard St., and ride with Mayor Warren along our first "Bike Boulevard" to the City-Brighton border near Highland Ave. & Hillside Ave., for a ceremonial ribbon cutting with Supervisor Moehle and reading of the Bike Week 2016 proclamation.
Ride your bike to the event and celebrate Bike Week 2016!
Contact: 311

For information on all Bike Week Events: http://www.cityofrochester.gov/bikeweek/

Richard DeSarra

Erie Canal Detour at E Henrietta Rd

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 15:25:37 GMT

There is construction at E. Henrietta Road at the Erie Canal Trail that will significantly impact the trail use during 2016 and probably 2017. The bridge over the canal will be replaced and ramps on/off the expressway will be altered.

Will post more details here when we get them.

Here is the proposed detour: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6820063.

Get Your Kicks on Route 66!

Sat, 23 Jan 2016 17:52:24 GMT

"The Mother Road"
"Will Rogers Highway"
"Main Street of America"

Call it what you will, this is a GAS!

(Get it? That's a joke ... cars, gas ... oh heck, never mind.)

Yup .. The Great American Road Trip! Think Hollywood, the Sierras and Rocky Mountains, high deserts, grasslands and cornfields, a road that sings, historic neon-laced motels, grubby eateries, kitchy roadside spectacles and spectacular vistas, ghost towns and bustling cities. Think John Steinbeck, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Will Rogers ... and Elvis? Model-T's and AAA, hot rods and hot dogs, Harleys and haboobs. An epic bit of mid-20th century, pre-interstate American history that will sear it's way into your memory forever.

Even better ... we're BIKING it!

I sit here at the computer this winter, doing my route research, making overnight reservations, creating GPS track files for the route, and loads of other tasks all the while trying to contain my excitement about leading another Epic Adventure Cycling Tour: Route 66 Eastward!

This one is different from last spring's van-supported Southern Tier that I co-led. First, it's self-contained ... no van support. Just you, your bike, your camping gear and up to 14 new friends including just one leader (yours truly) meandering across the country together. We will camp most nights, typically some RV parks, private and state park campgrounds. We'll hole up a few times in hippie-like hostels a few times, and we'll break it up with a motel stay every week or so that will seem downright luxurious.

And this one is different in another way. Adventure Cycling's Route 66 Bike Route is one of our newest routes, and the maps were only officially released in the spring of 2015. That means our group leaving Santa Monica on April 17th is our first ever guided tour. We will be the inaugural group, and you might even say historic! More technically … we are the "Beta-Testers". Although nearly 4 years of research went into developing the route, and many individuals and small groups have roughly toured the approximate route, this will be Adventure Cycling's first go at it. My job, in addition to assuring my group has the adventure of a lifetime, is to document, in great detail, everything of interest to cyclists along the route; I'm to gather all the intelligence successive tour groups might rely on to make their tours fun, memorable, well supplied, and safe.

My research to date has revealed countless POI's (points of interest) and I'm certain many more will reveal themselves as we make our way to Chicago. This tour will be as much about the history of Route 66, as it will be the sights, sounds and smells of the spaces, music and eateries that makes up America's Mother Road.

This 55 day tour is rated Advanced. Daily mileages average 55 miles and range between 30 and 75 miles a day. We plan on a rest day every 7 to 10 days. You might be a beginner cyclo-tourist ... you'll learn a LOT along the way ... but you should be capable of riding a loaded bike up to 75 miles a day for several days in a row with some significant weather challenges. Temps can range from freezing overnights to blistering hot days. Water can be a problem in some stretches out west, so carrying enough is concern but not impossible. We (and that includes your leader) will be sharing cooking duties on a rotating basis. Nothing special, no gourmet dining, but if you can cook a pot of stew on a camp store, you're good to go. If not, I can show you how easy it is. Two months before the start date, we will open a Google Group email account for this tour where I'll be sharing weekly tips on tour preparation and our group can discuss anything about extended loaded touring in general and this route in particular. On day one, we'll be ready for an adventure!

Let me share a paragraph from Adventure Cycling's website about "Epic" tours like this one ...

"Someday. I’m going for it. The big one. The moon shot. People will talk about me when I’m not around. Hardship and ecstasy will leave their marks on me forever ..."

Yeah ... that about sums it up. Why not make that "someday" happen in 2016?

Join me April 17th in Santa Monica California. Let's get our kicks on Route 66!

More Rt 66 News

Tailwinds!

Brian Managan - Tour Leader and Life Member
Adventure Cycling Association
bmanagan@adventurecycling.org

2016 Winter Media Show Meeting

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 11:00:00 GMT

Winter is coming and you know what that means ... our Winter Media Show with RBC!

Saturday, February 6 at MCC Bldg 5 Rm 100 (Lecture Hall)
Park in lot C MCC Campus Map

Doors open at 6:30pm

Steve & Kathy Riegel -Kathy and Steve will share their cycling adventure in India.

David Herlihy - Round Trip: Bicycling Asia Minor
“1891” features forty-two circular black-and-white photographs taken by the cyclists and reproduced from
recently scanned negatives held by the UCLA Library Special Collections.

Harvey Botzman - In early September, 2015, Harvey Botzman hopped on a Greyhound bus in Rochester and embarked on a bicycle tour.

Catch up with friends.

Beverages and snacks will be provided.

For more info, Email: brian@bcmbike.net

Share the Road signs on CR 12, South Bristol

Tue, 24 Nov 2015 17:58:32 GMT

Introduction: this message from Ken Nawrocki.

Most of you know me from the Rochester cycling community. I am also the SAG director for the Highlander Cycle Tour and have a wonderful working relationship with Town/County Highway departments in Ontario, Yates and Schuyler counties. Many of them have my mobile number and a reach out this morning asked for some help.

I received a call this morning from the Ontario County Highway Department regarding the Share the Road signs which were placed on CR 12 (the high road to Naples from the junction of 64 and 21 heading south). Neither the county nor any of the towns have placed the signs. They are reaching out to determine who placed the signs, as they are a liability. The signs will also be removed, TODAY to mitigate the potential liability.

Let me be clear, they have NO PROBLEM with the signs themselves and actually like to have them there as they contribute to safety and awareness. The issue is that the signs are planted on steel t-posts which do not meet the state breakaway standards. If a car hits one of these and the post goes through a windshield, you can imagine the consequences. There is a permitting process to place these signs. Yes, there is a cost to purchase and properly erect the signs using the official process, but it will allow the message to stay out there.

This is a broad appeal to my known contacts in the Rochester bike "tribe" let folks know that the signs will be removed and we all can work within the system to have them legally and safely placed. If you are aware of how these signs were placed, or can reach out to the broader cycling community, I would appreciate your reply. I have the contact info to apply for proper permitting and can provide it to anyone who wishes to engage the process.

In a broader sense, anything we can do to to increase awareness of cyclists on the road through the power of our numbers can only make for a more friendly Share the Road environment.

Thanks for your attention!

Ken

Global Fat-Bike Day Returns to Rochester!

Fri, 13 Nov 2015 02:43:55 GMT

Join Rochester’s Fat-Bike Tribe for Fun and Fat Frolic! Everyone Invited!

Global Fat-Bike Day, now in it's third year worldwide, and Rochester's second year of participation, is a celebration of the high grin-factor of riding fat bikes, whenever, wherever. Purely a grass-roots event, there's no sponsor, no entry fees, no worries! Come see why most fat-bike owners will tell you "It's the Funnest Bike I've Ever Had!"

Make new cycling friends; come join some hardy souls for a day at the beach! Rain, snow, maybe even shine!

When: High Noon Saturday, December 5th, 2015

Where: Durand Eastman Park Beach - Far East Parking Lot

Cost: FREE!!! Just Show Up and Ride! Seeeeeriously!

email: brian@bcmbike.net

Facebook: Global Fat-Bike Day - Rochester NY

Brian Managan to Lead Adventure Cycling's Inaugural Route 66 Tour

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 10:55:04 GMT

From Brian Managan,

I just got the news from Arlen Hall, Tours Director at Adventure Cycling Association, that Adventure Cycling’s Epic Tours 2016 Leader selection is now official and we have a GO to publish. I’m actually quite honored … 166 responses came in from trained leaders and I was picked to lead one of only nine self-contained Epics in 2016.

I have been selected to lead Adventure Cycling's inaugural Route 66 tour from Santa Monica California to Chicago Illinois, starting April 17th.

This is a 55 day camping, shared cooking, self-contained and UNsupported (no van) tour of nearly 2600 miles that’s rated “advanced” physical difficulty level. (It should say “mental” too!) Registration is limited to 14 riders and I’d like to extend an invitation to fit, experienced, qualified, prepared, and adventurous RBC members to join me. There are some VERY challenging sections to this route due to long desert stretches with minimal services, winds, and significant climbs. And Missouri. (There’s the “mental” part!) ;-) The paybacks however, are plenty! It’s a NEW tour, there will be “bugs” and I’m hoping to see a team that can weather the challenges and beta-test this for future tours.

See the full Route 66 Tour details page (hit all the “tabs”) at:

http://www.adventurecycling.org/guided-tours/self-contained-tours/2016-route-66-the-mother-road-eastward/

A bit later, I’ll have a complete write-up to share on the web and newsletter. I’m hoping to make this Adventure Cycling’s fastest tour sellout ever, and get to work on a million preparations for this Brand New Tour!

Interested parties may contact me at:

bmanagan@adventurecycling.org

Happy Trails!

========================================

Live your Dreams, don’t Dream your Life”
- Ian Hibell

Catch my blog at bcmbike.net/blog

R Community Bikes Needs Your Old Saddles and Seatposts

Mon, 09 Mar 2015 20:52:23 GMT

RCB has about 70 bikes that we'd like to give away to needy cyclists, but that are missing a saddle and, in some cases, a seatpost. If you have an old takeoff saddle or seatpost that's gathering dust in your basement, we hope you'll consider donating it. Just drop it off at our 226 Hudson warehouse between the hours of 9am to 1pm, Monday through Saturday. If you can't make it to the our warehouse, please drop your donations off at local bike shops Bike Zone, Towpath Bike, Pedellars Bike Shop, Park Ave Bike Shop, or Full Moon Vista.

RCB is a 501(c)(3) organization, so your donation is tax deductible.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan for Chili

Wed, 04 Feb 2015 19:50:03 GMT

This planning effort has been initiated to develop a more complete transportation network for residents of all ages. Once completed, the Plan will identify gaps within the Town's current bicycle and pedestrian system and provide alternatives for eliminating those gaps. This will be achieved by fostering community awareness and providing a detailed listing of projects and programs to improve accommodations for walking and biking within the Town. The final study will address the needs and opportunities throughout Chili while giving special emphasis to our three major activity centers: Chili Center, West Chili, and North Chili.

The Open House is scheduled for Thursday, February 5th, 2015 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm in the Chili Highway Department, 200 Beaver Road .

Bike Sharing Can Work Here

Tue, 27 Jan 2015 14:34:55 GMT

Link to D&C article of January 27th.

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2015/01/26/study-bike-sharing-can-work/22375925/

RBC and RCA Member Scott Wagner is quoted.

Invite to an FLCC Event

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 23:00:00 GMT

8th Annual FLCC Off-Season Bike Touring Get-Together/Dinner/Celebration and Adventure Cycling Assoc. Member Gathering

Details Here:
http://flcycling.org/2014/12/03/flcc-off-season-bike-touring-get-togetherdinnercelebration-tuesday-january-27/#more-4760

Democrat & Chronicle Nov 24, 2014 Cycling Article

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 21:56:10 GMT

In case you missed it here is the link to the D&C November 24, 2014 Front page story on cycling featuring RBC board member Scott Wagner and quotes from RBC President Mark Robbins and RBC Board Member Richard DeSarra.

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2014/11/23/law-protect-cyclists-unenforced/19466871/

Bicyclists needed for photo shoot

Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:03:16 GMT

Passing this along. Contact Fran directly if you are interested in participating.

Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) is looking for people who might want to be a model in some Erie Canalway Trail shots for the Erie Canalway Trail website that is being created for PTNY. One photographer will be shooting this coming weekend and another maybe during this week, when it is forecast to be sunny and warmer. We are planning on photos from Brockport, Spencerport, and Pittsford. We are especially interested in persons in the 20 – 40ish age category and children over 10.

Cyclists in colorful jerseys are what we are also hoping for. Dave Valvo is expecting to shoot in Spencerport at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and around 11:30 a.m. at Pittsford Schoen Place. Andy Olenick will be shooting in Brockport but I don’t yet know when.

Call me anytime on my cell phone 585-797-7098 if you want to discuss. This would be very helpful to us. Thanks so much.

Here is what you can send them as far as what we are doing and why:

PTNY has contracted with 2k Design as a consultant to help us develop our Erie Canalway Trail marketing effort. We received a modest grant from Empire State Development to fund this effort. Dave Valvo, a well-known Rochester photographer, will be doing some of the beauty shots for the website that 2k is creating, but we can’t pay professional models for these shots and real people are better anyway. So, what we need is some cyclists who may want to be part of a shoot in Brockport, Spencerport, and Pittsford. Time is of the essence as we are losing leaves, leaf color, and temperature at a rapid rate. Below is what we are looking for. Can you put out a call to your networks to see if there are people who might be interested? It should be a neat experience.

Here is what we need:

Models - mix of ages:

– Boomers age 50-70
– Families with one or two kids (around age 10+)
– 20-30 somethings
– Diversity
– Mix of male/female
– Couples (groups of couples)
– 2-4 women
– 2-4 men

Wardrobe: Bright colors (but not bright green)

OK - Red, pink, bright blues, orange, gold, purple;

NO black, dark blue, white; Solid colors (Black bike shorts or pants are fine)

NO patterns prints

Bike helmets a must!

Day packs optional

Fran Gotcsik

Director of Programs and Policy
Parks & Trails New York
29 Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207
518-434-1583| www.ptny.org
585-797-7098 cell
To support New York’s parks and trails… donate now!

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WXXI Radio - Connections: Biking Around Rochester

Wed, 13 Aug 2014 18:18:01 GMT

WXXI Radio broadcast this show about biking in Rochester.

You can listen to the broadcast online here: http://wxxinews.org/post/connections-biking-around-rochester

Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map 2014 Edition Now Available

Wed, 21 May 2014 12:19:59 GMT

Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map 2014 Edition Now Available
http://www.gtcmpo.org/Bike_Map_2014/BikeMapInfo.htm.

The 2014 Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map, prepared by the Genesee Transportation Council utilizing road ratings provided by volunteer members of the Rochester Bicycling Club, is now available.

The ratings represent the opinions of experienced bicyclists on the rideability of major roads based on existing road conditions and features such as pavement width and quality, traffic volumes, presence and type of shoulders, and posted speed limits.

Copies of the map are available at the following locations:

Bicycle Outfitters, 72 Main Street, Brockport
Bike Zone, 2100 Ridge Road West, Greece
Mac 5 Bikes, 37 East Main Street, Webster
Park Avenue Bike Shop, 2900 Monroe Avenue, Pittsford
R Community Bikes, 226 Hudson Avenue, Rochester
Sugar's Bike Shop, 2139 North Union Street, Spencerport
Towners Bike Shop, 1048 University Avenue, Rochester
More locations to come...

Individual copies can also be requested by telephone at the number provided below. Electronic copies in portable document format (PDF) may be downloaded here.

Please be aware that road conditions may change and bicyclists must always be aware of vehicular traffic, potholes, and other road hazards.

Additional information and maps available from:

Genesee Transportation Council

City Place ● 50 West Main Street ● Suite 8112

● Rochester, NY 14614-1227

Phone: (585) 232-6240 ● Fax: (585) 262-3106

To view and/or download the map in PDF click here.

Town of Chili - Bicycle & Pedestrian Planning Study

Mon, 19 May 2014 15:50:20 GMT

The Town of Chili is starting a Bicycle & Pedestrian Study. There will be a community meeting to gather public input on Tuesday, May 27 from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Town Highway Department at 200 Beaver Rd.

More information here.

If you miised the meeting and want to provide suggestions or other input for the Chili Bicycle-Pedestrian master Plan you can send them to: john@steinmetzplanninggroup.com

Volunteer Opportunity - Cycle the Erie Canal Event

Sun, 11 May 2014 14:34:11 GMT

Looking for ride leaders to help out with a scenic downtown ride as part of the Cycling the Erie Event on July 14^th. Volunteers will lead groups of bike riders from Genesee Valley Park to High Falls along the Genesee Riverway Trail. This is an optional 7.5 mile bicycle tour offered from the Rochester rest stop in Genesee Valley Park for the Cycling the Erie event. Tours are planned starting at 11:00 am and the last tour departs at 3:00 pm.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any additional questions please contact Sara Scott - Scotts@CityofRochester.Gov or 585-820-8860.

Ride of Silence - May 21, 2014

Tue, 15 Apr 2014 19:45:49 GMT

Ride of Silence - May 21, 2014
Penfield Town Highway Dept. on Jackson Rd.
Arrive at 6:15 pm, Ride leaves at 7:00 pm

On Wednesday, May 21, area cyclists will join over 12,000 others in a worldwide event to honor those who have been injured or killed while riding their bikes. In doing so we will speak truth to the power that drivers feel when they are behind the wheel of the two ton weapons we call cars. The Ride of Silence is unlike any ride you've done before. Sharing the road with like minded cyclists as we roll along quietly. Only the sounds of our thoughts will be heard. Our safe passage is provided by the motorcycle escorts. Intersections are controlled, overtaking cars held up until the way is clear. Our parade pace insures all will return to the finish about one hour after the start.

When- May 21, arrival by 6:15pm, roll out at 7pm after the pre-ride ceremony

Where- Penfield Highway Dept. parking lot on Jackson Rd. Across from Veteran's Memorial Park just North of Atlantic Ave.

What- A flat 10 mile route, ridden in silence at about a 10mph pace.

Who- Any one that cares about the next victim being the last. All abilities and cyclists are welcome. Racers, tourists, commuters, families, spouses, neighbors will share the road.

Since this is a slow ride dress for warmth. You will not sweat or push hard. You will follow the rider in front of you and keep pace with the one beside you.

We will offer arm bands but please bring your own. www.openyard.com is one source for black arm bands.

The national association web site is www.rideofsilence.org. Event history, locations, donation ability and apparel are all available.

Please consider attending this ride. You will be glad you did. Thank you, Andy.

Please contact Andy Stewart, onetenth@earthlink.net, if you have any questions or wish to help out.

Bike Week - May 11-18, 2014

Tue, 15 Apr 2014 19:43:19 GMT

May is National Bike Month! Hop on your bike, enjoy the smell of fresh air and lilacs, and experience the freedom of exploring our community on two wheels. The City of Rochester will help to launch the 2014 summer biking season with Rochester Bike Week, May 10-18. Highlights include:

Bike to the Public Market – ride to the market on Sat May 10, get a raffle ticket for a prize!

Join us for a safe, fun, youth-led Family Bike Ride along the Genesee River Trail – meet at the Charlotte Beach parking lot, Sun May 11 at 3pm

Bicycle Film Festival, Tues May 13 7pm at The Cinema Theater. More information. Film Festival Face book Page. (tickets cost $8 and may be purchased online: https://squareup.com/market/rochester-bicycle-film-festival/rochester-bicycle-film-festival-may-admission)

Right Ride Adult Safety Program – build your road cycling comfort and confidence with this two-class series in Genesee Valley Park (Tues, Thurs May 13 & 15 6-8pm)

Help dedicate a new mural and little library at the R Community Bikes’ Celebration and Community Bike Ride, Wed May 14 5:30pm

Bike to Work Day, Fri May 16

Radical Roots History Ride – a sociopolitical cyclo-tour with stops for discussion at local historic points, meet at Susan B Anthony Square Sat May 17 at 2pm

Dress up in festive colors or decorate your bike and Ride in the Lilac Festival Parade – meet at Science Parkway at 10am on Sun May 18

For further details and a complete listing of Rochester Bike Week events, see www.cityofrochester.gov/bikeweek.

2014 Clinics Scheduled

Sun, 09 Feb 2014 14:44:09 GMT

After a number of years with Bob cooper teaching the club's service clinics he has moved on and Andy Stewart is taking the mantle. For 2014 we have 5 clinics on the calendar and 1 bonus one.

The "Flat Tire Clinic" returns with the goal to help members learn how to handle the number 1 reason to stop your ride, the dreaded flat tire. This will be a hands on session, attendees may bring in their own bikes, or just a wheel, and any tools/supplies they have. Wheel removal and reinstalling, tire and tube replacement, understanding the common causes of flats and how to avoid them in the future will all be covered. Offered 3/20, 5/27 and 7/29. On-line registration available. Just go to the events tab, scroll down to find the clinic you want to attend and register. No cost to you.

New is a clinic called “All About Your Bike”. With the increasing complexity of modern bikes we see many riders who don't understand their steeds and how to get the most out of them. We'll try to describe the systems, components and accessories on the many road bikes we ride. This will likely be a free ranging session and could drift from the outline depending on the attendees' needs. There will be no need to bring a bike, just your questions. Offered 4/17 and 6/19. On-line registration available.
Just go to the events tab, scroll down to find the clinic you want to attend and register. No cost to you.

Both of these clinics will be held at the church, Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran, at 1000 N Winton Rd. On the scheduled days we start at 7PM and finish about 9pm. Andy encourages potential attendees to contact him prior to the clinics for more details.

A onetime and never done before clinic, on the topic of frame alignment, is offered to a maximum of 4 attendees. This will be held in Andy's basement workshop, hence the attendee limit. We will take a frame built by Dick Burns, a former club member, and measure its alignment using the tools and methods that professional frame builders use. A discussion about the findings and possible corrective measures will be offered. Anyone who has an interest in how frames are made will find this clinic fascinating. Attendees must contact Andy to confirm their place around the surface plate. This clinic is not on the calendar but will be held Mar 27, Thursday, starting at 7PM.

Andy's email is onetenth@earthlink.net.

Rochester Bicycle Boulevards Plan

Fri, 07 Feb 2014 20:16:43 GMT

To develop a plan to create parallel bicycle-friendly streets along key arterial corridors characterized by high automobile traffic volumes, high parking demand, and/or constrained rights of way which make standard on-street bicycle lanes difficult to achieve.

The first of two public meetings will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at 6:00PM at the Kate Gleason Auditorium of the Rochester Central Library, 115 South Avenue, Downtown Rochester. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of the project, share findings regarding existing conditions, and solicit suggestions from the public regarding desired routes, destinations, and other priorities.

Link for more info

Support Bike & Pedestrian Funding

Mon, 09 Dec 2013 15:16:34 GMT

Rochester is now the 8th quickest growing bike commuting city in the US and is in the top ten! We need to keep it that way and grow it more. According to this report, Rochester is among the Top 10 urban areas with increasing bicycle mode share (2000-2011), behind only Boston, Sacramento, Minneapolis, Denver, San Francisco, Madison, and Portland.

The link provided below will help us keep up the momentum. Congress cut ped and bike funding over 50% with the last transportation bill but left the option for states to fund these projects with state funding if state policy makers want to. Please click the link below and it will automatically send a postcard to the governor encouraging him to use the funding for biking and walking projects.

Thanks for your help and keep riding - indoors and out!

Scott MacRae MD
Rochester Cycling Alliance

Begin forwarded message:

Hi NY4AT,

Thanks again for participating in this important effort to increase funding for bike/ped projects in NYS. We hope to deliver a tall stack of cards to the Capitol, so please encourage your contacts to let us send a postcard to Governor Cuomo on their behalf. All they have to do is provide their name, city and email on our online form and we will do the rest. A link to the form to capture their info is here:https://ptny.wufoo.com/forms/dedicated-funds-for-bikepedestrian-infrastructure/[ptny.wufoo.com] and a link to the postcard that will be sent is here:http://ptny.org/pdfs/advocacy/NY4AT/Dedicated%20funds%20Postcard_12-6-13_1up.pdf[ptny.org]. They must provide their info by Dec 27. Please send it out via email, facebook, however! Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks! ~Drew

Drew Pollak-Bruce

Project Coordinator
Parks & Trails New York
29 Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207
518-434-1583 | www.ptny.org[ptny.org]

To support New York’s parks and trails…donate now[ptny.org]!

Connect with us: E-news[ptny.org] | Facebook[facebook.com] | Twitter[twitter.com] | Blog[ptny.wordpress.com]

Winter Meeting - Feb 22

Thu, 07 Nov 2013 16:14:34 GMT

After a one year hiatus, the Winter Meeting date has been set for Saturday, Feb 22, starting at 6:30PM at MCC.

Brian Managan will be presenting on his Great Divide Mountain Bike Route trip this past summer.

Joe Voelkel will be presenting on his and Dana's Around Lake Champlain trip.

This is a chance to get together with your riding friends after a long winter.
Refreshments will be provided.

Meeting will be held in Bldg 5, Rm 100. Park in lot C. MCC Campus Map

For those who missed Brian's presentation or want to find out more you can visit Brian's Blog here.

Bike Lane Funding

Mon, 28 Oct 2013 22:21:41 GMT

Proposed funding reduction for bike and pedestrian safety projects as reported by WHEC Channel 10.

WHEC Channel 10 Report

Wayne County Bike Routes

Sat, 19 Oct 2013 14:29:23 GMT

Submitted by Harvey Botzman

This is a project of the Wayne County Tourism Office, the New York Bicycling Coalition, and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

Goal: To create 8-10 on road and on road/trail bicycle touring loop maps for Wayne County residents and to attract tourists to bicycle in Wayne County.

Date: October 30, 2013, Wednesday

Time: 6-8 PM

Location: Newark Village Office Boardroom, 100 E. Miller St., Newark NY
(Location Map)

RSVP: cworth@co.wayne.ny.us or mmastracy@co.wayne.ny.us; tel: 315.946.7510

Additional Information: The New York Bicycling Coalition has received a grant from the Erie Canalway Corridor Heritage Fund to develop bicycle loop routes and publish those routes both as a hard copy (paper) and digital map. The grant specifies residents of the counties receiving funds to develop and publish these bicycle loop maps have residents of the county involved in mapping out and designing these routes. One requirement of the grant is for the routes to begin, end, or traverse the Erie Canalway Trail and or the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

This latter qualification is very easy to fulfill in Wayne County. the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal System essentially goes through the middle of the County from Clyde to Macedon.

Please tell any neighbors, friends, relatives, and folks you see or know who bicycle in Wayne County to come to this meeting and participate in beginning to make Wayne County a true Bicycling Friendly County.

RBC member Harvey Botzman is the volunteer (unpaid) Program Manager for this grant. Harvey will be at the meeting to show participants a few techniques for developing these loop maps and examples of bicycling maps produced in other NYS counties and in the Provence of Ontario, Canada.

Bicyclists and the RPD, Public Meeting with Chief Sheppard

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 01:16:52 GMT

Channel 8 Coverage

Public Meeting with Chief Sheppard
Rochester Police Department

Bicyclists and the RPD

September 26, 2013
5:30 – 7:00PM
Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County
115 South Avenue
Kate Gleason Auditorium
Rochester

Tour de Rochester for LiveSTRONG - RIDE TO SURVIVE 9.28.13

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 20:53:24 GMT

Western New York Wellness, Inc. presents

Tour de Rochester for LiveSTRONG

RIDE TO SURVIVE 9.28.13

The LiveSTRONG Foundation is not about one person, but for the lives of 28 million cancer survivors around the world! LiveSTRONG service and support is free to all survivors from the day of diagnosis. Western New York Wellness Program was initially funded by LiveSTRONG and we continue to support their efforts ! All the funds raised by our annual Tour de Rochester are sent to LiveSTRONG. We’ve been cycling throughout the spring and summer months and we will wrap up the season with this event to honor the 28 million cancer survivors around the world!

The Tour de Rochester is a 30 mile ride beginning at the Ferry terminal parking lot in Charlotte. The ride will use all paved bike paths and some roads. The ride offers many opportunities to shorten from the 30 miles, so we welcome one and all to join us for some or all of it! Helmets are required. A map is available. We will ride at our own pace from Charlotte, along the Parkway Bike Trail to the 390 Bike Trail and go south to Ridge Rd. After a quick jaunt down Latona Rd and Long Pond Rd., we will pick up the Erie Canal Trail to Genesee Valley Park. After crossing the river, we will ride north along the river and re-cross the river on the Court St. Bridge and ride down State St. to High Falls. We’ll take the High Falls Bridge to St. Paul St. and go north for a mile, then down into the river gorge and cross over the power dam at Maplewood Park, through the park , under Rt. 104 and and continue down Lake Ave. Just past Riverside Cemetery, the bike path goes back down to the river and along the boardwalk at Turning Point Park. We continue along the river back to the ferry terminal.

If you’ve never taken this route, bring your camera! The sights at the dam, Maplewood Falls and along the river can only be accessed on foot or by bike. And with the autumn colors, it is a sight to behold!
Bring water and some fruit or an energy bar. Bring some lunch money because anyone who is interested can gather following the ride at a restaurant near the river.

We are asking every rider to make a contribution to the Live STRONG Foundation, so please bring yours with you and we will collect and submit it as a testimonial of our WNYWP support.

This will be our last group ride of the year – help us make it the BEST! Come on out and bring a friend or two and your checkbook. We look forward to seeing you there – SATURDAY, Sept. 28, 2013, 10 AM, Ferry Terminal Parking Lot, Charlotte, Rochester, NY. (rain date Oct. 5)

www.wnywp.org

National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project Counts

Thu, 05 Sep 2013 19:07:01 GMT

National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project Counts are scheduled for September 10-15th 2013 (Tuesday through Sunday). We need your help, please sign up.

See this site: http://goo.gl/9y3T2i which lets you view all of the sites and easily sign up.

Please feel free to contact Robert Torzynski at the telephone number listed below, or Elizabeth Murphy with the Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, at (585) 224-3146, for assistance with signing-up or with questions.

Please note that all counts will be done as Screen Line counts, and that we’ve relocated some sites and added others. We’re also asking that volunteers limit themselves to the “standard” count times, which are 5-7 p.m. for weekdays and Noon-2 p.m. for weekends (Saturday-Sunday). It’s our hope that standardizing will help to ease data entry and improve the reliability and comparability for the count data.

A copy of the screen line count instructions/recording form can be obtained by emailing Robert Torzynski, rtorzynski@gtcmpo.org.

Further information is available here: http://goo.gl/iUNXp5.

Information on the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project is available here: http://bikepeddocumentation.org/.

Please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience if you have any questions or comments.

Please share this email if you know of anyone that may wish to participate in the project.

Sincerely,
Robert R. Torzynski, AICP, PTP
Program Manager - Bicycle & Pedestrian Planning
Genesee Transportation Council
50 W. Main St., Suite 8112
Rochester, NY 14614-1227
rtorzynski@gtcmpo.org
Phone: (585) 232-6240

Dick Burns (updated 05 Sep)

Sun, 01 Sep 2013 23:56:11 GMT

We are sad to announce that long time member Dick Burns passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 29th after collapsing at home. Dick was 82 years young. He was an avid cyclist and up until a couple years ago, a very active RBC member. Over the years he led numerous rides, and held various positions in the club as an officer. He is survived by his wife Sigrid and daughter Laura. Our condolences to the family. He will be missed by all.

Democrat & Chronicle Obituary Sunday, Sept 1, 2013

D&C Guest Book

Information if you would like to send a card or make a donation to their designated charities.

From Laura Burns, Dick's Daughter:

Sigrid Burns

831 George Washington Way

Webster, NY 14580

671-6732

Laura Burns

105 Tanglewood Ct

Webster, NY 14580

hubcatsboston@aol.com (email me if you'd like to be notified of a memorial)

585-787-4209

St. Ann's Home and Heart
(585) 697-6087
696 Ridge Road
Webster, NY14580
www.stannscommunity.com
(this was the day program that he enjoyed, twice a week in the last year, and where he died.

Habitat for Cats

PO Box 25637

Rochester, NY 14625

habitatforcats.com (non-profit)

local group that assists with feral and stray cats, to trap, neuter and release. We use the trap that Dad built, and commercial traps based on his design.

Rochester Bicycling Club

PO Box 1211

Pittsford, NY 14534

More information will appear here as it becomes available.

Work to start on Pittsford to Fairport Canal Path upgrade.

Wed, 14 Aug 2013 15:26:31 GMT

Read the Webster Post Article here

July Ride Stats Report

Thu, 18 Jul 2013 14:51:43 GMT

As of July 14th there have been 176 reported rides, with 13 rainouts and 27 ride sheets outstanding. There have been only 37 Impromptu rides so far this year compared to 70 last year. A total of 1792 riders, consisting of 353 individuals, have so far accumulated 58,864 miles. Depending on the statistic, this is 20-25% below last year at this time. The wetter season so far this year compared to the beautiful, dry spring last year is at least partially responsible for this decline.

Participating riders have averaged 5.1 rides and 167 miles. 64 people have done 10 or more rides and 16 people have done 20 or more rides. Four people are over 1000 club miles and 5 others are within 100 miles of that mark. We have had 145 first time riders so far this year. Each non-rain-out has averaged 10.2 riders, although the S&E rides have averaged 16 riders per ride.

June Ride Stats Report

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:13:41 GMT

As of June 12th there have been 118 reported rides, with 6 rainouts and 15 ride sheets outstanding.
A total of 1180 riders, consisting of 275 individuals, have so far accumulated 39,035 miles.
Depending on the statistic, this is 10-20% below last year at this time.
The cooler, wetter spring this year compared to the beautiful, dry spring last year is at least partially
responsible for this decline.

Participating riders have averaged 4.3 rides and 142 miles.
35 people have done 10 or more rides and 3 people have done 20 or more rides.
We have had 81 first time riders so far this year. Each non-rain-out has averaged 10.0 riders.

Four rides so far this year have had 30 or more riders.

2012 Bicycle Transportation Community Recognition Award

Wed, 08 May 2013 14:38:07 GMT

Press Release:

ROCHESTER, NEW YORK – Nu-Look Collision is receiving the “2012 Bicycle Transportation Community Recognition Award” from the Rochester Bicycling Club. The award is being presented to the company on Thursday, May 16, 2013 at 10:00 AM at Nu-Look Collision’s Henrietta shop location at 840 Lehigh Station Road.

This award is given to a Rochester community organization that promotes bicycling for transportation or bicycle safety in the community. The Rochester Bicycling Club chose Nu-Look Collision because of their response to the tragic injury to their employee, Kevin Royston.

In June of 2012, Kevin was riding his bicycle in Rushville and was hit in a hit and run. He lost part of his leg as a result. Kevin was employed as a Body Technician at Nu-Look Collision’s Monroe Avenue location. His passion is riding his bike, and now, with his prosthetic leg, he is learning to ride again.

After the injury, his employer, Nu-Look Collision, decided on a way to raise money to help Kevin and his family with the medical expenses. They organized “Raffle for Royston”, and approached area businesses and friends and family of Kevin, as well as their customers to help in their effort. The raffle alone raised $22,445 for Kevin. Raffle for Royston coincided with the benefit event, “Ride for Royston”, which included a group bicycle ride and dinner. There were 79 raffle prizes given away at the event, donated by individuals and companies who wanted to show their support. Some of the top prizes included a $1,000 cash prize from Nu-Look Collision, a $400 restaurant gift certificate donated from Nu-Look Collision, a 2012 7.3 Trek Bicycle donated by Geneva Bicycle Center, and a $900 Snap-on Tools tool cart.

The company also used their television advertising space to promote bicycle safety awareness through their commercials. The Rochester Bicycling Club took notice, and was inspired to create this award. They thought it would be great to honor Nu-Look Collision with an award and a check for $500 to use towards more “Share the Road” safety messages.

Nu-Look Collision Centers have promoted safety to the Rochester community as part of their marketing campaign for the last several years. Through a series of commercials known as “Safety Shorts”, they provide tips to the community about safe driving, vehicle maintenance and sharing the road with bicyclists.

=====================================================================================

RBC President, Whitey Link, will be presenting the award.

Channel 13 Coverage

Nu-Look Collision Bike Safety Radio Ad

Bicycle Transportation Survey

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 14:31:17 GMT

To Whom It May Concern:

I am conducting a study that investigates how cyclists value different forms of bicycle transportation networks. I am administering an online survey to individuals who are at least 18 years old, own a bicycle, and live in the United States. I am conducting this research in the hopes that it can help policy makers and city planners better understand cyclist’s preferences when it comes to where they ride their bicycles.

I am writing to you to see if your organization would be interested in helping me recruit participants. The survey will gather information about how individuals value different transportation networks as well as some basic demographic data similar to what you would see on the US Census. The survey will only take about 12 minutes to complete. Individuals who complete my survey can enter to win one of ten Amazon gift cards. I will be raffling off two $100 gift cards four $50 gift cards, and four $25 gift cards. Entering this raffle is completely voluntary.

I will be extremely grateful if you can help me by sharing a link to the survey portal where my survey is being administered. The best way to do this is by emailing your members directly with the link. I think it could also be helpful to post the link on your website, blog, and/or social media site (Facebook or Twitter). This project has a very short timeline, the survey will be open from now until April 5th, and I need to gather as many responses as possible so your help will be greatly appreciated!

Here is the survey link:

http://ucsas.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_298lnFRkTGuAH0F

I would love to answer any questions you may have about this process. Feel free to call or email me if you have any questions about sharing this survey or about my research. Thank you so much for your time and willingness to participate in my research!

Sincerely,

Cassie Finer

Economics Honors Student Class of 2013

University of Colorado

Tel: (707)326-9489

cassie.finer@colorado.edu

Dick Burns Estate Sale

Andrew R Stewart — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 03:12:27 GMT

Dick and Sig Burns's estate sale is Friday, March 29th at their Webster home. For those who don't know Dick he is a many facetted man with many different talents and interests. Expect to find wood and metal tooling including a lathe, drill press, hand held power tools, measuring and hand tools. There's a lot of hard wood pieces waiting for a project. The garage has canoes, skis, a compresser, gardening tools and ladders. Furnature, cameras, books and more household items will be offered. The address is 408 Woodland Lane, Webster. Go to DaisyEstateSales.com for more details. The cycling items are being handled by Andy Stewart independent of the estate sale.

Genesee – Finger Lakes Active Transportation Summit

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:14:04 GMT

Save the Date
Tuesday April 30, 2013

We envision a future in which every community has transportation options that are healthy, fun, safe, and environmentally friendly. The purpose of the Genesee-Finger Lakes Active Transportation Summit is to help educate, inspire, and mobilize our 9-county region to achieve that vision by making walking, biking, and transit easier, safer, and more available to all.

Join us for an exciting day-long program that includes:

· Innovative and influential speakers

· Dynamic educational sessions

· Networking with national and local leaders

· Workinggroups to share best practices and mobilize for action

Keynote addresses by two of the most important active transportation leaders in the US:

· EarlBlumenauer, U.S. Representative, 3rd District Oregon

· Jeff Olsen, former New York State DOT Bike/Pedestrian Program Manager and author of The Third Mode

When: Tuesday, April 30, 2013 from 8am-5pm

Where: Rochester Riverside Radisson Hotel (120 East Main St) Registration Cost: $50 (includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks)

More details and registration information available soon.

Contact: elizabethmurphy@flhsa.org for more information.

Winter Meeting Cancelled

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:45:45 GMT

The Winter Meeting has been cancelled for this year due to lack of presenters.

Please check out the post on the ride calendar and volunteer to lead a read. The calendar will be frozen in early February and rides without leaders will be dropped from the schedule.

See you all at the spring banquet!

One Month to go: Volunteers still needed to lead 2013 Rides

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 02:43:08 GMT

Ride Leaders (and potential Ride Leaders), there is now only about one month left to volunteer to lead rides for the 2013 calendar! So far, 238 of the 331 rides have Ride Leaders. However, this also means that 93/331, or 28%, do not. Can you help us close this gap? Please?

Volunteering for a ride is simple:

Go to the following Google Drive spreadsheet, which lists rides without leaders.
2013 rides without leaders (If you have never used a Google spreadsheet, it’s easy. It looks like an Excel spreadsheet.)
Check out the rides that you would like to lead, and enter your name (full name please, so we know who you are!) in the blue “LEADER” column.
Close the link (Google saves the file almost on a continuous basis–
you’ll see the “All changes saved in Drive” under and to the right of the file name.)

Thanks for volunteering!

Joe and Dana
2013 RBC Ride Chairs

Final Ride Stats for 2012

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 20:32:26 GMT

The official 2012 RBC riding season has ended and the final individual ride stats have been compiled.

2012 Stats by Total Miles 2012 Stats by Calendar Ride Miles 2012 Stats by Impromptu Ride Miles

RBC Photo Contest

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 00:19:49 GMT

We are still looking for new photos for the all new Rochester Bicycling Club web site. So now that the season has wound down, take some time to go through your cycling related photos and send us your best. Group shots or shots showcasing our beautiful Finger Lakes area would be especially desirable. The judges will choose the best ones to be used as banners on our new site. For the banner a photo that can be cropped to a panoramic format work best. The others will be available in a new photo album area on the site. Digital files only, no hard copy. No prizes, just the pride of having your photos on your club web site.

Pizza Party and General Election Meeting

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:49:43 GMT

Saturday, Nov 10th, at 6:30pm

Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

1000 N Winton Rd

It’s as easy as 1,2,3…..

1- Bring your favorite pizza to share.

2- Put it on the table with all the others

3- Sample as many as you would like

The club provides the beverages and tableware.

After we fill up on pizza, we have a short general meeting followed by elections.

The 2013 ride calendar will be there so you can sign up to lead your favorite rides!

With so few rides left on the calendar for this season, this will be one of the last times you will see some of your riding buddies until next spring!

Volunteer Dinner

Sun, 21 Oct 2012 15:42:54 GMT

The annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner will be Friday Oct 26 at 6:30pm at Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 1000 N Winton Rd.

The feedback from last year’s dinner was positive so the menu will again be from Sticky Lips but this time with fewer rolls and more cornbread! Anyone who led a ride, worked on an adopt a highway cleanup, submitted articles and/or pics to the newsletter, submitted maps or any of a number of other tasks is eligible for a free dinner. Club members who did not volunteer and would like to attend or anyone who would like to bring a guest may do so for $12.

Hopefully we didn’t miss anyone but if over the past year you volunteered to help us out and did not receive an invitation yet, please let us know.

City of Rochester Receives ‘Bicycle Friendly Community Award’ From League of American Bicyclists

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 23:17:34 GMT

City of Rochester Receives ‘Bicycle Friendly Community Award’ From League of American Bicyclists

Complete-Street(Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012) undefined Mayor Thomas S. Richards today accepted a national recognition for the City of Rochester from the League of American Bicyclists. Rochester undefined one of only two cities in New York State to be so honored undefined was named the recipient of a “Bicycle Friendly Community” Award during a Navigating MAP-21 Bicycle/Pedestrian Advocacy Conference held in Rochester. New York City is also a New York State recipient and one of the 242 award designees nationally.

The City received a Bronze level award for its commitment to improving cycling conditions through investments in cycling promotion, education programs, infrastructure and pro-bicycling policies.

“The City of Rochester is honored to be recognized by such a prestigious organization for our commitment to creating a community that is more accessible and friendly to cyclists and pedestrians,” said Mayor Thomas S. Richards. “The Bronze Award is recognition that our hard work to integrate bicycling and walking into our community is paying off.”

The League of American Bicyclists advocates for improved cycling conditions in communities nationwide, representing the interests of 57 million bicyclists nationwide in addition to its 300,000 members and affiliates.

“The popularity of this program is clear evidence that simple steps to make bicycling safe and comfortable pay huge dividends in civic, community and economic development,” said League President Andy Clarke.

The City completed its Rochester Bicycle Master Plan in 2011, and is now including Bike Lane and Shared Use Lane (Sharrow) markings on many of its street design projects, as well as other amenities such as bike racks, bike shelters, bike lockers and bicycle service repair stations. The Master Plan, as well as the Complete Streets Policy, also approved in 2011, have improved access for cyclists, pedestrians and persons with disabilities along Rochester’s streets and within neighborhoods.

Since completing these documents, the City has installed more than 11 miles of on-street bike lanes or shared-use lanes and another 46 lane miles are programmed or proposed. Multi-use trails, such as the Genesee Riverway Trail and the newly-opened El Camino Trail, continue to be enhanced and extended. The City has installed 30 miles of multi-use trails and another four miles are planned.

In addition, over 100 bike racks have been installed, as well as other bicycle infrastructure such as bike shelters and bike repair stands. The City’s “ROC the Bike!” initiative and its Bike Week celebrations, promoting cycling in Rochester, have also boosted the number of bicycling enthusiasts. Additional information on bicycling in Rochester is located at www.cityofrochester.gov.

More information about the Bicycle Friendly Communities program and the League of American Bicyclists can be found at: www.bikeleague.org/community.

Adopt-A-Highway Pick-up

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 15:51:31 GMT

The last clean up of the season is Saturday Oct 20th

Meet at the corner of Plank Rd and Rt 250 in Webster. Bring a safety vest and bike helmet if you have them, otherwise the DOT provides both. (one size fits all)

Wear boots and work gloves as it may be wet out there. This is the last clean up of the season but counts towards a volunteer point for next year, so come on out and get an early start on your volunteer points for next year!

Contact Hank 217-9450

hwalck@rochester.rr.com with any questions or concerns.

Help Update the Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 19:39:09 GMT

Several years ago, members of the Rochester Bicycling Club (RBC) helped to rate selected roads in the City of Rochester, surrounding Monroe County, and nearby towns in Wayne, Ontario, and Livingston Counties. These road ratings were used by the Genesee Transportation Council (GTC) to develop the 2009 Edition of the Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map. 20,000 copies of the map were printed by the GTC and distributed throughout the bicycling community by members of the RBC and others.

It is time to update the map and we need the help of experienced road cyclists.

You must be willing to ride the selected roads in the Town of Monroe County you select during non-commute times. You must be over 18 years old.

If you would like to help with rating the roads for this map update, please send me an email with the following information:

1.Your name, address, home or cell phone number
2.Your cycling experience in 100 words or less
3.If you want a copy of the current map let me know

I will email to you additional details with a list of the Towns open for rating.

The ratings must be completed by October 31, 2012 in order to meet the goal of publishing a new edition of the map during the winter of 2012/2013.

Richard rdscomm@rochester.rr.com
RBC Board Member

Ride for Royston

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 19:33:40 GMT

On August 4 there will be a fundraiser to benefit Kevin Royston, the cyclist who was assaulted by a hit and run driver on Tuesday June 5, and left for dead. This assault took place in Rushville, NY, an area where we all ride.

The fundraiser will be held out of Bristol MT and feature a 75 and 25 mile ride. The event is titled the R4R (Ride for Royston).

In addition to the rides (registration is $60 and includes Ride, Dinner, and a raffle ticket) there will be a silent auction and the R4R Raffle (tickets $10 ea or 7 for $50). Participants can sign up using their Paypal account or on the day of the event. Additional donations can be made to help the Royston family defray the costs of this horrific injury.

All information about this event can be obtained by going to www.nulookcollision.com

Bicycle and Pedestrian Traffic Count

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 15:54:30 GMT

We need your help for the next round of Bicycle and Pedestrian Traffic Count

On September 11, September 12, and September 13, 2012, members of the Rochester Cycling Alliance, the Active Transportation Working Group, and other interested parties are invited to participate in the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project counts for the Rochester Area. This will be the second series of counts for the region (the first was completed in May of this year).

These counts are part of a national effort intended to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and to better inform decisions on where improvements to our roads, sidewalks, and trails will help to best serve all users. Typically, the counts are taken in two-hour increments from 7-9 a.m. and/or from 4-6 p.m. (although the time can vary to match the “peak” traffic at any given location).

There are two types of counts which include “screenline” counts of users passing by the counter’s location and (more difficult) intersection counts. The counts are recorded on paper forms in fifteen minute increments using a nationally-consistent method.
This is an important project that depends on the help of volunteers for its success.

A project website has been developed, at http://trails.zgroks.com where individuals that want to help can easily sign-up as well as view the count locations on Google Maps and download further information about the project.

If you’re interested in assisting with the counts, please visit the website listed above or contact me at your convenience for further details.

Regards,
Richard DeSarra, rdscomm@rochester.rr.com

RBC picnic and challenge ride

Sat, 07 Jul 2012 15:45:15 GMT

Andrew Spiller Memorial Picnic and Challenge Ride

Saturday July 14th
Farmington Town Park
7am -7am the following day

Open to everyone, the only entrance fee is a dish to pass! This is a great chance to push yourself to ride further than ever before.

So if you are up to it, this is your chance to ride mega miles, or just spend the day socializing. How you spend the day is entirely up to you. Some opt for riding 24 hours, others just part of it, still others just come for the party (no alcohol). This is the club’s annual picnic/ride held at Farmington Town Park in where else?… Farmington. The park sits in the middle of a figure eight loop, with each loop being 25 miles. This way you are never more than 12.5 miles from the start (or finish depending on how tired you are). What better way to challenge yourself to ride farther than you ever have before without getting too far out and wondering how you are going to make it back? After each loop there will always be food, beverages and encouragement waiting.

Gary Butterfield will lead a night ride again this year for as many loops as riders want to ride. For night time riding, lights are a must and reflective gear is recommended as well. For safety reasons, everyone must ride the night loop after dark which is only 12.5 miles. This not only makes it easier to keep track of where everyone is, but the route is set up entirely with right hand turns and only crosses one major intersection. This loop is often used during the day as well for families not wanting to ride the longer loops. All the loops except the night loop can be ridden in either direction.

Riding starts as early as 7am and continues for 24 hours rain or shine if there are willing bodies. We ask that everyone bring a dish to pass (fruit, salads and pasta are nice, and cookies and……you get the idea). Beverages and tableware provided. Although there is food of some sort available all day, the actual “picnic” begins around 11am and lasts until the food is gone.

The ride is not supported, other than with encouragement, except at night when a “chase” car drives the route to make sure everyone is accounted for.

There are no pavement markings on the route unless they are left from prior years but cue sheets for all the loops are on your CD, please bring map #148 with you to the ride.

With special permission from the town of Farmington, the event has always been offered as a 24 hour event, except for the year one of our members was killed by a drunk driver while riding north of Albany in an ultra marathon event. In memory of him and his love of ultra marathoning, the event was renamed and is officially known as the Andrew Spiller Memorial Challenge ride.

This event is sponsored by the club every year for its members to enjoy as they please, make it your event by challenging yourself to ride a little more. Andrew would want it that way.

Directions: take Rt 96 east to Rt 332 (north of Canandaigua) take a left at the light and go to Collett Rd. Another right at Collett Rd, through the next intersection, over the RR and just past the highway dept garage puts you almost at the driveway to the park or take Rt 96 eastbound, past the Rt 332 intersection. After turning left at CR #8, a few miles up the road just after crossing the railroad tracks, the park is on the left (corner of Collett and CR# 8)

For more information contact ……….Karen rbcmembership@rochester.rr.com