Latitude 45's fifth annual staff bikepacking expedition took place Sunday, Sept. 13, and Monday, Sept. 14 and featured a 150-mile route that included circumnavigation of Bois Blanc Island (Boblo). Inclement weather altered the trip itinerary, pushing departure back a day to Sunday. This year, only four staffers opted for the adventure, with each departing from … Continue reading Latitude 45 Staff Bikepacking Trip 2020
Having spent a good part of my career in photojournalism, I thought the colorful, fast-paced event would provide great subject matter for my lens. I was right.
"With social distancing in mind, we first aimed for the Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve east of Indian River in Cheboygan County."
Though it’s obviously not connected to anything Michigan, Indiana University’s celebrated Little 500 bicycle race is nevertheless an interesting story, especially for cycling enthusiasts. The event would’ve seen its 69th installment this weekend, had it not been for the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s race – for the first time in its history - … Continue reading The Little 500 Bicycle Race: ‘The World’s Greatest College Weekend’
What an incredible year it was for cycling in Northern Michigan. As you know, I'm a little new to the area. But, it's been a truly moving adventure discovering just how much natural beauty there is here. Most of these photos were taken between June and September 2019, mainly along the Little Traverse Wheelway and … Continue reading FRESH EYEZ: Summer ’19 Cycling Shots
(This is the second in a two-part series detailing a recent bikepacking trip taken by seven Latitude 45 employees.) Seven Latitude 45 Bicycles and Fitness staff members enjoyed great weather and good times on an annual, two-night/three-day bikepacking trip that departed from the shop on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and returned Friday, Oct. 11. This year's … Continue reading Latitude 45 Staff Bikepacking Part Two
Checking the weather radar just before departing on a ride is a very good practice. But, sometimes storms can appear faster than modern technology can predict. I'd checked the weather radar repeatedly recently prior to embarking on a 30-mile ride, an out-and-back to the outskirts of Charlevoix along the Little Traverse Wheelway. There was rain … Continue reading Scene from the Wheelway – Part 2
Why settle for less?
Should you try cyclocross? Absolutely. The races are business in the front, party in the back, just like the mullet sported by US National CX Champ Stephen Hyde.
By Karen Wright When asked to do a blog about women's bike clinics I was happy to oblige. A big part of the women's clinics are the support and camaraderie that women share with each other. There is nothing more empowering then a group of women working together to learn and support other women in the … Continue reading The Joy of Women’s Cycling Skills Clinics
Life at the 45 