2013 is looming and the holiday season has thrown some wrenches in our self-image. The pie and gravy and toffee and brownies and lard were delicious and festive. But self-hate is emerging. Don’t worry. Our weekly rides will get you in form in a fun and positive way. Resolutions here we come.
We have lots and lots of rides every single week for all levels. Our ride leaders are knowledgeable, personable, and sincerely care about helping you achieve your riding goals whether its a casual ride, a social ride to meet friends, find routes to commute, or train to destroy your frenemies on Strava, before moving to Provence and crushing the 2013 Tour de France.
All rides leave from the shop and are co-ed, “no drop” unless otherwise noted. Riders shuld arrive 30 minutes ahead of ride start time for a little socialization, cup of coffee or croissant from Juan Pelota Café. We’re also proud to say that our shop opens early–7am Monday through Saturday, and 8am on the Sunday, so our in-store experts and ride leaders can help should you have a pre-ride crisis.
What to bring? Road bike (for road rides), clipless pedals, helmet, bike in good working condition, water and nutrition, flat changing tools, and no headphones.
Riding to Ride (Beginner/Intermediate)
TUESDAYS: Mellow Ladies’ Ride – Led by the ladies (of Mellow Johnny’s) and for the ladies, this in-town ride will teach valuable group riding skills and provide the opportunity to introduce you to other women cyclists. It’s great for loosening up the legs after a long weekend of riding. Expectations: some group riding experience and ability to maintain 14-15mph pace.
*Wheels down at 5:30pm Ride Re-starts on Tuesday after daylight savings (Sunday March 10, 2013)
FRIDAYS: Friday Truancy Ride – Weekend warriors jump-start your weekend with a 17-18mph 30-miler through neighborhoods, official bike routes, and minimal large roadways with a few hills and optional sprints. Led by Mellow Johnny’s.
*Wheels down at 2:30pm
SATURDAYS: Scout-a-Route Ride– Co-hosted by Mellow Johnny’s and Austin Cycling Association. Perfect for the cyclist new to riding or commuting, returning to the bike after a big hiatus or just looking for a casual spin. The routes are designed to help riders navigate our city and learn safe bike commuting options. Two groups offered: 1) those who can average 14-16mph for 20-30 miles with one or two regroup points and 2) same route as the first group but with an extended mileage option. Routes vary weekly to/around Clarksville, Rollingwood, McKinney Falls, South Austin, East to Meander and more.
*Wheels down at 9:00am
Riding to Improve (Intermediate)
SATURDAYS: Middle of the Road Ride (MOTR) – Led by the UT Cycling team, great for the intermediate rider wanting a good 30-35 miles at a decent pace of 16-17mph on in-town bike routes and roads with low to moderate traffic. Routes vary weekly to/around areas like Creedmoor, McKinney State Falls into Elroy, Buda, 360 Loop, Bee Caves and beyond.
*Wheels down at 8:30am
SUNDAYS: AFWC Ladies’ Rider – Led by the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club. Sorry boys, only girls are allowed on this intermediate and friendly 2.5-3 hour ride averaging 15-16mph. It’s a great opportunity for ladies who want a good workout, new routes, and new riding partners.
There are 3 categories of rides on Sundays, to accommodate all levers. Look here for details.
*Wheels down at 9:00am
SUNDAYS:
The Violet Crown Ride, one of the oldest group rides in Austin meeting every Sunday morning for over 30 years! This ride is a great fit for the intermediate rider on a road bike in good repair who is accustomed to riding in groups. This co-ed ride averages 17-18mph for 50-60 miles and is not “no-drop”, it is still a speedy ride. Riders for this group should have experience riding in groups and understand the etiquette of group riding, be able to change a tire and address minor mechanical issues. Riders should come expecting a challenging road ride and bring the proper equipment. Please don’t wear headphones or plan to do ride in your aero bars. We typically ride out against the wind and have a tailwind on the way home as nature intended. Speaking of nature, expect one “nature break” around 20 miles into the ride, and one store stop around the mid-point of the ride.
Wheels down at 8:15am.
Route: routes and distance will vary.
Riding to Train (Intermediate/Advanced – Not “no drop”)
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS: 787Cycling Team Weekend Ride – Join the 787’ers for a ride designed to get you into racing shape. Averaging 22-24 and sometimes up to 25-26mph, this weekly ride is for advanced riders who can handle their own mechanicals and experienced group riding skills. Distance varies.
*Wheels down at 8:00am
MTB Rides
SATURDAYS: Mellow Mountain Ride – this co-ed intermediate mtb ride is approximately 20 miles and will last 2.5-3 hrs. Ride leaders from Mellow Johnny’s will lead you to Austin’s beloved Barton Creek Greenbelt. Be prepared for fairly technical routes made up of creek crossings, hardpack trails, baby heads, and crazy climbs.
*Wheels down at 9:00am
