2019 Summer Wrap Up
When did summer get so short?? Hard to believe it's back to school time already. It definitely still feels like the dog days in the shop...but we are looking ahead to some cooler fall weather that allows us to wrench and ride without a major sweat fest! Our summer was brief but full of good stuff. The first ever Bike Camp at The Pedal Factory was a major success. We had 10 kids attend along with a few teen helpers and lots of adult volunteers. We all really enjoyed the daily rides, learning opportunities and visits to cool places around town. From Eaman Park pool to a lesson in city government by Mayor Heggins, we made the most of our time. More bike camps are in the works, so stay tuned for mini sessions and school break opportunities.
Looking ahead, we've got plenty of fun riding events coming up that will allow us to connect with the community on a deeper level. Rowan Creek Week is coming up later this month, and we're hosting the "Clean Creeks Ride" on August 18th. All are invited and encouraged to join us at the shop at 5:30 - we'll ride towards Kelsey Scott Park with gloves, bags and hydration, and work to clean the surrounding area around Grant's Creek. Not up for the ride? Feel free to meet us at the park around 6 pm for cleanup and litter removal. We can make a difference!! The 21st is World Cleanup Day as well, and we'll be helping with those efforts during shop time. Earn volunteer credit or just be a good citizen!
Our last "Let's Ride Rowan" event of the year is September 14th from 10-12 at the JF Hurley YMCA. Bring your youngster out for practice on our balance bikes. Training wheels can be a thing of the past with a little instruction and lots of encouragement!As always, there will be a bike course set up for seasoned riders, with a focus on safety and rules of the road.
OctoberTour will be here Oct 12-13th. We'll do a preview ride on Sunday the 6th at 4pm, where we pedal by the homes that will be open to the public during the tour. We will have tickets to sell for OctoberTour, and you can get a preview of what's to come. The 13th at 11 am is our Tweed Ride - all are welcome to join us for this leisurely roll through town. Vintage bikes and clothing are encouraged!! Start scouring the thrift shops now - get out your best tweed, most dapper duds and enjoy a ride back in time. Free festivities on Bank St to follow.
The shop thanks you for your support and continues to rely on community donations. Your unused bicycles, bike accessories, gear and parts are always needed. Volunteer assistance with a multitude of tasks is always needed, including some offsite duties. Become part of a sustainable, bike friendly community! That's it for now, stay tuned for more events, workshops and opportunities to get involved.