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’
I wasn't prepared for the staggering beauty of a Northern Michigan autumn. An Indiana native, I was used to eruptions of brilliant color and long-lasting leaves. But, Indiana isn't thick with Birch trees, and Hoosiers often don't get to see their electric yellow leaves which pop out like reflective road signs amid the other … Continue reading FRESH EYEZ: Fall 2019 Cycling Shots
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
(This is the first of a two-part series detailing a recent bikepacking trip taken by 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 adventure … Continue reading Latitude 45 Staff Bikepacking Part One
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
By Eric Cox Gun metal gray rain clouds loomed over the bay. Trees swayed in a chilly, late summer breeze. A cool mist speckled car windshields all over town - less than ideal riding conditions for sure. While I could've employed the inclement weather as a suitable excuse for avoiding a ride … I didn't. … Continue reading The Regret of Rides Not Taken
Working in a bike shop you see a lot of bikes, but each year it seems like there are a few models that stand out. Maybe it's a cool paint scheme, a new wheel or tire size, a killer group of components, or outstanding value. Here are a few bikes we have in the store … Continue reading Hottest Bikes In The Shop
Electric bikes, commonly known as e-bikes, are a popular new category that is attracting a lot of attention from riders looking to make cycling easier. These bikes have an electric motor that assists the rider but (most) still require pedaling. The assisted pedaling puts them in a grey area between motorized and non-motorized vehicles. This … Continue reading E-Bike Trail Access Explained
One of the benefits of winter's slower pace is the opportunity to reflect and implement changes. Last fall we spent time dreaming of ways we could improve the shop with the goal of taking customer experience and efficiency to the next level. The result was a major remodel and reorganization of the back of the … Continue reading Winter Remodel “The Wall”
Life at the 45 