Bike Month continues this week with lots of great riding going on including the Armadillo Classic this weekend.

Here’s a quick run down of recommended events for the coming week from our comprehensive calendar of all cycling events. As always, if there is an event you know about that’s not on our calendar contact us, and we’ll add your event on and possibly add it to the weekly round up.

Thursday, May 10

Driveway Crit Series
5 PM, The Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane
Weekly Thursday night road racing through October that takes place on the closed car-free driving course at the Driveway. Races include Cat 3/4 women’s and juniors race at 5:00, Cat 3/4 Race and Women’s Open at 5:30, Kids Fun Lap at 6:20, Cat 4/5 Race at 6:25, and Pro/Cat 1/2/3 at 6:55. Races registration Weekly: Men $25, Women $10, College Students $10, Juniors $10. 5PM Junior race is free. Additional races $10 each. Season Passes: $650. USA Cycling annual or one day license and helmet required. One days for sale at race.

Thursday Night Bike Polo
5:00 PM, Metz Park, 2407 Canterbury St
The Austin Bike Polo Club’s holds 3 hardcourt matches a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at Metz Park. All bikes and skill levels are welcome and spare mallets and balls are available if you don’t have any. Check out our article on bike polo for more info.

Thursday Night Social Ride
7:30 PM, Festival Beach, Lady Bird Lake
Meet up at 7:30, ride at 8:00. “This week we will ride our bikes around. Then just for that, Lucy’s will hook us up with a keg of FREE beer. Then cheap tall boys after that.” Read our article on the weekly ride. Join the Social Cycling Facebook Group.

Friday, May 11

Lend Your Legs: Social Cycling + Meals on Two Wheels
11:00 AM, Meals on Wheels and More, 3227 East 5th Street
Social Cycling does good by parting with Meals on Wheels to deliver meals to those in need by bike. “This ride is the perfect and legit excuse to take off work early and get in a good ride? Beware THE HILLS! Our ride is moderate in length, but has plenty of ups and downs. Social Cycling lends their legs again to the homebound by partnering up with Meals on Wheels. Join us at 11:00 (wheels down at 11:20) at the Central Kitchen on East 6th to deliver meals to houses on the Eastside. After delivering the meals, we’ll keep riding until we find a good spot to grab our own grub. As always, Lend Your Legs blends a good deed with a good time.

Saturday, May 12

One Lap Around Lake Travis charity ride
6:30 AM, Jester King Brewery, 13005 Fitzhugh Road
On May 12 there will be a small charity ride to benefit Walnut Creek Academy students attending the Junior National Leadership Conference. The ride is a complete lap around Lake Travis and is 120 miles long, though we are offering a 2 person relay option. The ride is fully supported with food, water & SAG vehicles. The cost is $49 and includes a t-shirt and beer. Most importantly, the ride takes place on May 12th at 6:30am, starting/ending at the Jester King brewery.

8 AM, Liberty Hill High School, 13125 W Hwy 29, Liberty Hill, TX
Join the 18th Annual Armadillo Hill Country Classic 2012. Enjoy one of seven different courses that wander through the Texas Hill Country and the National Wildlife Refuge. See quaint towns like Bertram, Oatmeal & Burnet. Enjoy the beautiful rolling scenery, get a great ride in & do something good for the Austin cycling community at the same time. This is a multi-distance, fully supported bike course. Choose from one of seven courses: 14, 28, 42, 50, 61, 78 & 105 mile routes.

Mellow Johnny’s Scout-A-Ride: Rollingwood And Vine
9 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Saturday mornings spent exploring City of Austin bike routes finding new neighborhoods and ways to get around on your bike. This week’s theme: Rollingwood And Vine. Today’s ride is a more challenging route than usual with the hills of Rollingwood and an option to ride a short section of Loop 360 with it’s wide shoulders but faster traffic. The mileage is low at 14 miles but requires some experience. Meet at 8:30 for coffee at Juan Pelota. Contact:Stephanie at Stephanie@mellowjohnnys.com.

Ride Like A Girl Mountain Bike Ride
9 AM, Reimers Ranch Park
Ride Like A Girl is a series of women-led, all women mountain bike rides scheduled from May to September. Women learn differently from men so instruction is designed to help women build confidence while having fun and experiencing nature. Each participant chooses which group to ride with based on skill level, experience and speed. New riders are always welcome and a “no drop”policy”is enforced so no one gets left behind. Riders must have a bike with knobby tires, a helmet and water. Participation is free All riders must properly wear a helmet, bring plenty of water and have a trail-worthy bike in good working condition. Rides are open to women of all levels and you do not have to be a member of the Austin Ridge Riders to participate.

Sunday, May 13

AFWC Ladies Ride
9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St.
Join the women of the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club every Sunday for an intermediate, ladies-only ride. This friendly, 2.5-3 hour ride averages 15-16 mph, with routes varying each week. It is a great opportunity for women looking to continue their fitness, learn new routes and meet new riding partners. Beginner women are encouraged to check out the Saturday Scout-a-Route ride for a shorter, more casual route.

Monday, May 14

Commuter Safety Ride with the Bikin’ Betties
6 PM, Juan Pelota at Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces Street
Want to try commuting but have reservations? Join us for night of talking bike safety with a ride to demo some of the ways to get along better with your fellow road users. The Bikin’ Betties from Social Cycling Austin will be riding early with us and this week the men are invited to join. Our own bike advocate and League Cycling Instructor, Eileen, will be coaching the ride and answering questions. We’ll meet up in Juan Pelota at 6:00pm and roll out around 6:45pm. After our ride we’ll land across the street at Royal Blue Grocery for a drink and some social time. Helmets are required and available to borrow from the shop if you don’t have your own. Lights are required if you will be riding after the social time at Royal Blue.

Tuesday, May 15

Dirt Remedy Race Series
5:30 PM, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, 1600 City Park Rd
The Dirt Remedy Race Series is a mountain bike racing series to cure your urge for short track mountain bike racing at Emma Long MTB Trails, TUESDAY’s in APRIL & MAY 2012. $20/race (save $5 with a protein rich canned food item), 2nd race = $5!
5:30- 1st timers clinic
5:40- Beginner’s Race (C)
6:15- Intermediate Race (B)
6:55- Expert Race (A)
6:56- Single Speed (A)

Austin Bike Chix Beginner Ride
6:30 PM, Northwest District Park, 7000 Ardath St.
There is a new series of bike rides in town for those new to cycling or for those that just need to dust off that bike. Austin Bike Chix will be offering a series of rides to Austin Area adults. The rides will start at Northwest Park on March 22 at 6:30 PM and will continue on Tuesdays for 6 weeks. The series of rides will be more like mini clinics (with topics ranging from chains to hills) to give new riders knowledge about the bike and confidence to be able to do the shorter distances on some of the local charity rides and beginner rides in town. These rides are perfect for those wanting to do ride in the Tour de Cure or are a first time triathlete. We will be riding on the road, all bikes are welcome. All rides are free.

Social Cycling Austin’s Yoga Ride
6:30 PM PM, Doug Sahm Hill, Butler Park
Bikes + yoga = fun! This yoga class itself is designed specifically for cyclists and appropriate for all levels including beginners. 6:30pm Meet on Spiral Hill, hang out, meet your fellow yogis, drink some hydrating beverages, etc. 7:00pm Ride to a mystery spot where we will have an hour of yoga. 8:15pm – 8:30pm Ride bikes even more! 10 miles or so. More if you’re up for it . Moderate pace, no drops.

Wednesday, May 16

Social Cycling Austin’ Hump Day Nooner Ride
11:45 AM, Lamar Blvd Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
We meet on the ped. bridge at 11:45am, get to know your fellow riders, ride out at 12:15pm. Ride up a hill or two and head to get a refreshing beverage and ride to get lunch. Rides are between 10 and 20 miles. The route is determined on the fly.

In case you didn’t notice, it’s Bike Month… tons to do on 2 wheels. Please be sure to make Thursday night’s Pedaling for Safer Roads ride hosted by Please Be Kind to Cyclists.

Here’s a quick run down of recommended events for the coming week from our comprehensive calendar of all cycling events. As always, if there is an event you know about that’s not on our calendar contact us, and we’ll add your event on and possibly add it to the weekly round up.

Thursday, May 3

Driveway Crit Series
5 PM, The Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane
Weekly Thursday night road racing through October that takes place on the closed car-free driving course at the Driveway. Races include Cat 3/4 women’s and juniors race at 5:00, Cat 3/4 Race and Women’s Open at 5:30, Kids Fun Lap at 6:20, Cat 4/5 Race at 6:25, and Pro/Cat 1/2/3 at 6:55. Races registration Weekly: Men $25, Women $10, College Students $10, Juniors $10. 5PM Junior race is free. Additional races $10 each. Season Passes: $650. USA Cycling annual or one day license and helmet required. One days for sale at race.

Thursday Night Bike Polo
5:00 PM, Metz Park, 2407 Canterbury St
The Austin Bike Polo Club’s holds 3 hardcourt matches a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at Metz Park. All bikes and skill levels are welcome and spare mallets and balls are available if you don’t have any. Check out our article on bike polo for more info.

Pedaling for Safer Roads
7 PM, Austin City Hall
The Austin cycling community is shocked and saddened by the recent death of cyclist Verter Ginestra, killed on 360 and Westlake on Saturday, April 28th and the serious injuries of cyclist Evan Baird caused by a hit and run collision on Monday, April 23rd. We as a community will come together on Thursday, May 3rd, 2012, at 7 pm at City Hall. Then we will ride our bikes slowly to the Capitol building down Congress Avenue. Thursday’s gathering will be a chance to send a message to lawmakers to create better infrastructure for cyclists, to implement comprehensive safety awareness and education among drivers, and to create and enforce laws protecting cyclists.

Thursday Night Social Ride
7:30 PM, Plaza Saltillo, East 5th & Comal
Meet up at 7:30, ride at 8:00. This week the ride will meet up with the Pedaling for Safer Roads and end at Blackheart for a free keg of Coors and $2 cans to followRead our article on the weekly ride. Join the Social Cycling Facebook Group.

Friday, May 4

Peddler Dirt Derby End of Season Party
7:30 PM, The Pour House, 6701 Burnet Rd. Suite A3
The 2011-2012 Dirt Derby series is a wrap! We will have some giveaways, recognition of series leaders, some on the bike fun and we’ll have some drawings for swag, food and beverages. So ride on over and join us for a fun evening!

Saturday, May 5

Shiner GHASP Charity Bicycle Ride
6:30 AM, Met Center 10, 7709 E. Ben White
Join Central Texas cyclists for this traditional ride from Austin to the Shiner brewery. Cyclists will depart from Austin and ride 100 miles through small towns and scenic byways on the way to the historic Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas. Rest Stops are located every 10-20 miles and will be stocked with food, power bar products, drink and cheering volunteers to keep your energy high. There will be port o potties and hand sanitizer at each stop. Rest stops subject to change and we will make every attempt to post any changes online.

Mellow Johnny’s Scout-A-Ride: Another Pleasant Valley Bike Ride – Backwards!
9 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Saturday mornings spent exploring City of Austin bike routes finding new neighborhoods and ways to get around on your bike. This week’s theme: Another Pleasant Valley Bike Ride – Backwards!
Today we venture onto a southeast Austin route with a foray over the river via Pleasant Valley Rd and rolling back through Travis Heights. It’s a mix of flat, hills, urban and creekside all within minutes of downtown. No, we won’t be riding our bikes backwards but riding the route in reverse just to experience the climbs in a new way. Helmets required. Meet at 8:30 for coffee at Juan Pelota. Contact:Stephanie at Stephanie@mellowjohnnys.com.

3rd Annual Bike-In Book-Swap
Noon- 3 PM, Twin Oaks Public Library, 1800 South 5th St
We will have free bike tune-ups and extra bike parking, courtesy of Bicycle Sports Shop, a Kids Kup tournament courtesy of Bike Texas, Bike Care tips via The Yellow Bike Project (along with a pannier workshop!!), APD will be out to register people’s bikes and give tips to prevent against bicycle theft, Nadia will be passing out free Austin Bike Route Maps, The Office of Sustainability will be here passing out free Bike In Book Swap bags, Random House has donated many new copies of the book The Wheels of Change, to be given away, The OG Flatland Stunt Team will be there performing tricks to awe and amaze, the Austin Cycling Association will be present and giving away helmets to kids (so pass the word!) and the library will be hosting many, many bike themed crafts – and of course there will be plenty of books to swap. We might even have a few more folks showing up – Don’t miss it!

May Full Moon Cruise- Cinco de Mayo edition
11:59 PM
Lunar monthly midnight full moon ride. “This would be the Full Flower Moon – In most areas, flowers are abundant everywhere during this time. Thus, the name of this Moon. Other names include the Full Corn Planting Moon, or the Milk Moon. It also happens right after the Cinco de Mayo, so if you needed an excuse to go on a bike ride … there you go.”

Sunday, May 6

AFWC Ladies Ride
9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St.
Join the women of the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club every Sunday for an intermediate, ladies-only ride. This friendly, 2.5-3 hour ride averages 15-16 mph, with routes varying each week. It is a great opportunity for women looking to continue their fitness, learn new routes and meet new riding partners. Beginner women are encouraged to check out the Saturday Scout-a-Route ride for a shorter, more casual route.

Monday, May 7

Ride Like A Girl hosted by Austin Ridge Riders
6 PM, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, 12138 N Lamar Blvd
2012 Season Opener! Ride Like A Girl is a series of women-led, all women mountain bike rides scheduled from May to September. Women learn differently from men so instruction is designed to help women build confidence while having fun and experiencing nature. Each participant chooses which group to ride with based on skill level, experience and speed. New riders are always welcome and a “no drop”policy”is enforced so no one gets left behind. Riders must have a bike with knobby tires, a helmet and water. Participation is free

Tuesday, May 8

Dirt Remedy Race Series
5:30 PM, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, 1600 City Park Rd
The Dirt Remedy Race Series is a mountain bike racing series to cure your urge for short track mountain bike racing at Emma Long MTB Trails, TUESDAY’s in APRIL & MAY 2012. $20/race (save $5 with a protein rich canned food item), 2nd race = $5!
5:30- 1st timers clinic
5:40- Beginner’s Race (C)
6:15- Intermediate Race (B)
6:55- Expert Race (A)
6:56- Single Speed (A)

DLA Piper Driveway Academy: Breaking Away
6 PM, Driveway Austin, 8400 Delwau Lane
The DLA Piper Driveway Academy is a series of cycling clinics designed to help riders of all abilities—from first time racers to seasoned veterans—develop into more confident, skillful, and of course, faster, bike racers. Each of the five, one-hour clinics will focus on a specific bike racing skill, using a variety of engaging drills. Each clinic will also include an optional, open category practice race, that can be counted towards starts or pack finishes needed for upgrades. There are no prizes for this race.

Austin Bike Chix Beginner Ride
6:30 PM, Northwest District Park, 7000 Ardath St.
There is a new series of bike rides in town for those new to cycling or for those that just need to dust off that bike. Austin Bike Chix will be offering a series of rides to Austin Area adults. The rides will start at Northwest Park on March 22 at 6:30 PM and will continue on Tuesdays for 6 weeks. The series of rides will be more like mini clinics (with topics ranging from chains to hills) to give new riders knowledge about the bike and confidence to be able to do the shorter distances on some of the local charity rides and beginner rides in town. These rides are perfect for those wanting to do ride in the Tour de Cure or are a first time triathlete. We will be riding on the road, all bikes are welcome. All rides are free.

Social Cycling Austin’s Yoga Ride
6:30 PM PM, Doug Sahm Hill, Butler Park
Bikes + yoga = fun! This yoga class itself is designed specifically for cyclists and appropriate for all levels including beginners. 6:30pm Meet on Spiral Hill, hang out, meet your fellow yogis, drink some hydrating beverages, etc. 7:00pm Ride to a mystery spot where we will have an hour of yoga. 8:15pm – 8:30pm Ride bikes even more! 10 miles or so. More if you’re up for it . Moderate pace, no drops.

Wednesday, May 9

Social Cycling Austin’ Hump Day Nooner Ride
11:45 AM, Lamar Blvd Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
We meet on the ped. bridge at 11:45am, get to know your fellow riders, ride out at 12:15pm. Ride up a hill or two and head to get a refreshing beverage and ride to get lunch. Rides are between 10 and 20 miles. The route is determined on the fly.

Sometimes there is a moment when we say enough of the abuse, enough of the threats to our lives, enough of public resources devoted to one form of transportation. The simple act of riding a bike should not be dangerous just because some of our neighbors want to get to work or the store a few minutes sooner.

In response to the shocking death of Verter Ginestra on Saturday on 360 and serious hit and run injuries of cyclist Evan Baird, Please Be Kind to Cyclists is bring the the Austin cycling community together this Thursday for a special ride called Pedaling for Safer Roads.

“Thursday’s gathering will be a chance to send a message to lawmakers to create better infrastructure for cyclists, to implement comprehensive safety awareness and education among drivers, and to create and enforce laws protecting cyclists. Saturday’s fatal crash and Monday’s hit and run mark two serious cycling tragedies in Austin in less than a week. There have been three cycling deaths so far this year and many more injured. We hope that this gathering can be a catalyst for change to educate drivers and protect everyone who rides a bicycle.”

More on the ride from Fox 7.

It’s time to say ¡Ya basta! Please mark your calendar and come to City Hall this Thursday night.

Pedaling for Safer Roads
7 PM
Austin City Hall

Here’s a quick run down of recommended events for the coming week from our comprehensive calendar of all cycling events. As always, if there is an event you know about that’s not on our calendar contact us, and we’ll add your event on and possibly add it to the weekly round up.

Thursday, April 26

Driveway Crit Series
5 PM, The Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane
Weekly Thursday night road racing through October that takes place on the closed car-free driving course at the Driveway. Races include Cat 3/4 women’s and juniors race at 5:00, Cat 3/4 Race and Women’s Open at 5:30, Kids Fun Lap at 6:20, Cat 4/5 Race at 6:25, and Pro/Cat 1/2/3 at 6:55. Races registration Weekly: Men $25, Women $10, College Students $10, Juniors $10. 5PM Junior race is free. Additional races $10 each. Season Passes: $650. USA Cycling annual or one day license and helmet required. One days for sale at race.

Thursday Night Bike Polo
5:00 PM, Metz Park, 2407 Canterbury St
The Austin Bike Polo Club’s holds 3 hardcourt matches a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at Metz Park. All bikes and skill levels are welcome and spare mallets and balls are available if you don’t have any. Check out our article on bike polo for more info.

LOBV Volunteer Happy Hour
5:30 PM, LOBV Office at Center 61, 2921 E 17th St
Interested in volunteering for the League of Bicycling Voters during Bike Month? Come to the LOBV Volunteer Happy Hour on Thursday April 26th, 5:30 – 7:30pm at the LOBV Office. Join us in preparation for the following events: Bike to Work Day, VIVA STREETS!, and the Urb…an Assault Ride. Additionally, LOBV is seeking volunteers to join the Membership Outreach Team and a new volunteer coordinator. The LOBV Volunteer Happy Hour will provide those interested in volunteering with general information about all upcoming volunteer opportunities and will provide LOBV members a chance to socialize with volunteers.

Thursday Night Social Ride
7:30 PM, Plaza Saltillo, East 5th & Comal
Meet up at 7:30, ride at 8:00. Read our article on the weekly ride. Join the Social Cycling Facebook Group.

Friday, April 27

April Critical Mass Ride
5 PM, West Mall UT Campus
This bike jamming ride is designed to shout to the world that bikes belongs and occurs on the last Friday of the month. You never know what will happen, but don’t miss this foundation of the Austin bike culture we know today.

Saturday, April 28

The Red Poppy Ride
8 AM, Georgetown High School Annex, 2295 North Austin Avenue, Georgetown, TX
Enjoy a spring bike ride on beautiful country roads though picturesque Williamson County.
The Red Poppy Ride benefits the SERTOMA scholarship program for Georgetown ISD, the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center and the City of Georgetown Bicycle Patrol Unit. ROUTES of approximately 14 (Family Circle), 30, 45, 64, 75, 85 and 100 miles with START & FINISH at the Georgetown High School Annex.

FrankenBike # 81
10 AM- 4 PM, University Cyclery, 2901 Lamar Blvd
Austin’s monthly free bike swap returns. If you’ve got bike stuff to sell or trade, just show up with a table or blanket to hawk your wares.

Mellow Johnny’s Scout-A-Ride: Fusebox-Pay Phone Revival Project
DIFFERENT TIME & PLACE THIS WEEK! 11 AM, El Chilito’s, 2219 Manor Drive
Saturday mornings spent exploring City of Austin bike routes finding new neighborhoods and ways to get around on your bike. This week’s theme: Fusebox-Pay Phone Revival Project. “The Pay Phone Revival Project reanimates abandoned pay phone booths by commissioning artists and designers to use them as the epicenter for creative interventions in the urban landscape. The resulting installations transform abandoned pay phone booths into objects that inspire play and interaction, create a new function, or tell a story. The project is curated by Bridget Quinn an Austin based artist and urban explorer. The interventions will be installed from March – October 2012 for varying durations.” ..Fusebox, 2012. Join us for a docent lead tour! We begin the tour at El Chilito’s, 2219 Manor Drive at 11:00AM. The tour ends at the Tops Building 1105 E 5th. We meet at the Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop at 10:00 to ride over! Contact:Stephanie at Stephanie@mellowjohnnys.com.

Sunday, April 29

AFWC Ladies Ride
9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St.
Join the women of the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club every Sunday for an intermediate, ladies-only ride. This friendly, 2.5-3 hour ride averages 15-16 mph, with routes varying each week. It is a great opportunity for women looking to continue their fitness, learn new routes and meet new riding partners. Beginner women are encouraged to check out the Saturday Scout-a-Route ride for a shorter, more casual route.

Tuesday, May 1

Dirt Remedy Race Series
5:30 PM, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, 1600 City Park Rd
The Dirt Remedy Race Series is a mountain bike racing series to cure your urge for short track mountain bike racing at Emma Long MTB Trails, TUESDAY’s in APRIL & MAY 2012. $20/race (save $5 with a protein rich canned food item), 2nd race = $5!
5:30- 1st timers clinic
5:40- Beginner’s Race (C)
6:15- Intermediate Race (B)
6:55- Expert Race (A)
6:56- Single Speed (A)

Austin Bike Chix Beginner Ride
6:30 PM, Northwest District Park, 7000 Ardath St.
There is a new series of bike rides in town for those new to cycling or for those that just need to dust off that bike. Austin Bike Chix will be offering a series of rides to Austin Area adults. The rides will start at Northwest Park on March 22 at 6:30 PM and will continue on Tuesdays for 6 weeks. The series of rides will be more like mini clinics (with topics ranging from chains to hills) to give new riders knowledge about the bike and confidence to be able to do the shorter distances on some of the local charity rides and beginner rides in town. These rides are perfect for those wanting to do ride in the Tour de Cure or are a first time triathlete. We will be riding on the road, all bikes are welcome. All rides are free.

Social Cycling Austin’s Yoga Ride
6:30 PM PM, Doug Sahm Hill, Butler Park
Bikes + yoga = fun! This yoga class itself is designed specifically for cyclists and appropriate for all levels including beginners. 6:30pm Meet on Spiral Hill, hang out, meet your fellow yogis, drink some hydrating beverages, etc. 7:00pm Ride to a mystery spot where we will have an hour of yoga. 8:15pm – 8:30pm Ride bikes even more! 10 miles or so. More if you’re up for it . Moderate pace, no drops.

Wednesday, May 2

Social Cycling Austin’ Hump Day Nooner Ride
11:45 AM, Lamar Blvd Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
We meet on the ped. bridge at 11:45am, get to know your fellow riders, ride out at 12:15pm. Ride up a hill or two and head to get a refreshing beverage and ride to get lunch. Rides are between 10 and 20 miles. The route is determined on the fly.

After a 3 year run in Austin, the Texas Custom Bicycle Show will be returning to its Dallas origins this fall for another exhibition of locally built bicycle frames, components, and accessories.

The showcase will be in the Deep Ellum district right off of downtown Dallas the weekend of October 27-28, 2012. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for more details soon.

To whet your appetite, here’s a piece on the 2011 show produced by Nissan Innovation for Endurance.

Ladies looking to start road racing/riding or improve your skills, take note: The Austin Flyers are hosting a 5-part Skills Series for Women starting this Tuesday, April 24, out at the Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane,, and will be continuing these once per month through August.

This series is not just for ladies who want to race. The series will work on a range of skills that will not only help you be a safer, more competitive racer, but also a safer, stronger, and smarter rider. Pace lines, group riding, cornering, strategy for not getting dropped, sprinting, hot laps—fun, fun, fun!

This Tuesday’s session: Fundamentals of Racing. Wondering if you might be a bike racer? This session will get you prepared, teaching you everything from registration to crossing the finish line. We’ll cover warm-ups, nutrition, mass starts, smart pack riding and more.

Registration is at 5:30pm, at the clinic runs from 6-8pm. Free for AWFC members, $25/session for non-members. Online registration and info on the other sessions at austinflyerswomenscycling.com

Here’s a quick run down of recommended events for the coming week from our comprehensive calendar of all cycling events. As always, if there is an event you know about that’s not on our calendar contact us, and we’ll add your event on and possibly add it to the weekly round up.

Thursday, April 19

Driveway Crit Series
5 PM, The Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane
Weekly Thursday night road racing through October that takes place on the closed car-free driving course at the Driveway. Races include Cat 3/4 women’s and juniors race at 5:00, Cat 3/4 Race and Women’s Open at 5:30, Kids Fun Lap at 6:20, Cat 4/5 Race at 6:25, and Pro/Cat 1/2/3 at 6:55. Races registration Weekly: Men $25, Women $10, College Students $10, Juniors $10. 5PM Junior race is free. Additional races $10 each. Season Passes: $650. USA Cycling annual or one day license and helmet required. One days for sale at race.

Thursday Night Bike Polo
5:00 PM, Metz Park, 2407 Canterbury St
The Austin Bike Polo Club’s holds 3 hardcourt matches a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at Metz Park. All bikes and skill levels are welcome and spare mallets and balls are available if you don’t have any. Check out our article on bike polo for more info.

Bicycle Advisory Council
6 PM, City Hall, Staff Bullpen
The Austin Bicycle Advisory Council is a committee of Austinites representing cyclists’ interests to the City of Austin and meets monthly to advise staff of the City of Austin Public Works Bicycle and Pedestrian Program.

Thursday Night Social Ride
7:30 PM, Plaza Saltillo, East 5th & Comal
“This week we’ll do some pedaling east, west, north, and south. Then we’ll ride over to Club Deville for some FREE cans of theCHAMPAIGNofbeers (High Life).” Meet up at 7:30, ride at 8:00. Read our article on the weekly ride. Join the Social Cycling Facebook Group.

Friday, April 20

Lend Your Legs: Meals On Wheels
11 AM, Meals On Wheels&more, 3227 E 5th St
Social Cycling lends their legs again to the homebound by partnering up with Meals on Wheels. Join us at 11:00am at the Central Kitchen on East 5th as we head out as a group to deliver meals to houses on the Eastside. After delivering the meals, we’ll keep riding until we find a good spot to grab our own grub. As always, Lend Your Legs blends a good deed with a good time. This is a no-drop ride for all levels. Everyone is welcome to ride along, but Meals on Wheels provides a weekly orientation for anyone who would like to deliver the meals themselves.

Saturday, April 21

Austin Rattler 100 MTB Race
8 AM, Rocky Hill Ranch, Smithville, TX
Solo and two-person or four-person relay team spots to race for a place at the world famous Leadville 100. After the race we’ll keep you entertained with free food, free beer and a live band. Make a day of it and check out the Austin Rattler!

Tour de Vineyard at Florence
8:30 AM, The Vineyard at Florence, 8711 W FM 487, Florence, TX
The ride will start and end at The Vineyard at Florence which is located at 8711 W. FM 487, 4 miles east of Florence off of Hwy 195. The ride will take you through the scenic back roads of Florence and Williamson County. The routes are 15, 35, 45 and 62 miles. There will be rest stops supported by local organizations providing all of the necessities. SAG and EMS will be provided as well.

Mellow Johnny’s Scout-A-Ride: Mueller Meander – Extended
NEW TIME! 9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s, 400 Nueces St
Saturday mornings spent exploring City of Austin bike routes finding new neighborhoods and ways to get around on your bike. This week’s theme: Mueller Meander – Extended. oday’s ride cruises through the east side to check out the new Mueller development then we’ll be extending the route for a loop into Hyde Park. Join us for a pre-ride coffee or snack at 8:30 at Juan Pelota Cafe. Helmets required. If driving to the shop, please park in the street.Contact:Stephanie at Stephanie@mellowjohnnys.com.

Sunday, April 22

AFWC Ladies Ride
9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St.
Join the women of the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club every Sunday for an intermediate, ladies-only ride. This friendly, 2.5-3 hour ride averages 15-16 mph, with routes varying each week. It is a great opportunity for women looking to continue their fitness, learn new routes and meet new riding partners. Beginner women are encouraged to check out the Saturday Scout-a-Route ride for a shorter, more casual route.

Blessing of the Bikes and Please BE KIND to Cyclists annual ride
10 AM, St. Martin’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 606 W. 15th Street
On Sunday April 22nd, Please BE KIND to Cyclists will be joining forces with St. Martin’s Lutheran Church for the first annual Blessing of the Bicycles from 10 – 10:30 AM. Please join us by bringing your bike for a blessing as we remember cyclists we’ve lost on Austin’s roadways. A group ride will be leaving from the church to ride around the Judges Hill neighborhood after the blessing which will be the Please BE KIND to Cyclists group ride for the year.

Earth Day Ride
Noon, Republic Square, 400 Guadalupe St
Join us for a 14 mile city bike ride, with a brief stop at the Hope Farmers Market, then on to the Austin Earth Day festival at Mueller. The free festival features exhibits, speakers, food, and entertainment, celebrating the Earth. Riders must obey all traffic laws, wear a helmet, have equipment to change a flat tire, and bring a lock. Groups of riders may head back to the start at different times – a map will be provided. Contact: Niles Seldon, 512-346-8073, nseldon@ix.netcom.com.

Tuesday, April 24

Dirt Remedy Race Series
5:30 PM, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, 1600 City Park Rd
The Dirt Remedy Race Series is a mountain bike racing series to cure your urge for short track mountain bike racing at Emma Long MTB Trails, TUESDAY’s in APRIL & MAY 2012. $20/race (save $5 with a protein rich canned food item), 2nd race = $5!
5:30- 1st timers clinic
5:40- Beginner’s Race (C)
6:15- Intermediate Race (B)
6:55- Expert Race (A)
6:56- Single Speed (A)

Austin Bike Chix Beginner Ride
6:30 PM, Northwest District Park, 7000 Ardath St.
There is a new series of bike rides in town for those new to cycling or for those that just need to dust off that bike. Austin Bike Chix will be offering a series of rides to Austin Area adults. The rides will start at Northwest Park on March 22 at 6:30 PM and will continue on Tuesdays for 6 weeks. The series of rides will be more like mini clinics (with topics ranging from chains to hills) to give new riders knowledge about the bike and confidence to be able to do the shorter distances on some of the local charity rides and beginner rides in town. These rides are perfect for those wanting to do ride in the Tour de Cure or are a first time triathlete. We will be riding on the road, all bikes are welcome. All rides are free.

Social Cycling Austin’s Yoga Ride
6:30 PM PM, Doug Sahm Hill, Butler Park
Bikes + yoga = fun! This yoga class itself is designed specifically for cyclists and appropriate for all levels including beginners. 6:30pm Meet on Spiral Hill, hang out, meet your fellow yogis, drink some hydrating beverages, etc. 7:00pm Ride to a mystery spot where we will have an hour of yoga. 8:15pm – 8:30pm Ride bikes even more! 10 miles or so. More if you’re up for it . Moderate pace, no drops.

Wednesday, April 25

Social Cycling Austin’ Hump Day Nooner Ride
11:45 AM, Lamar Blvd Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
We meet on the ped. bridge at 11:45am, get to know your fellow riders, ride out at 12:15pm. Ride up a hill or two and head to get a refreshing beverage and ride to get lunch. Rides are between 10 and 20 miles. The route is determined on the fly.

BikeTexas is one of the featured organization this week on Groupon’s non-profit fundraising site, Groupon Grassroots.

Here are the details:

The Campaign: Bike Lights and Helmets for Kids

If this Grassroots campaign raises $400, then BikeTexas can provide bike lights for 40 Texas cyclists to ensure they have the necessary equipment to ride to work or school safely. Each additional $10 raised will provide a bike light set for another child or adult in need.

Through its partnership with Safe Routes to School, BikeTexas works with teachers and schools to educate children about bicycle safety and increase the number of children who bike to school. To date, the program has reached more than 4,000 teachers and approximately 200,000 children with safe cycling education.

This fundraising special expires on April 22, 2012.

It’s going to be a busy weekend! Kick it off with the Political Pedal, then choose between mountain bike racing or city art with some road bike sprinting practice for good measure.

Here’s a quick run down of recommended events for the coming week from our comprehensive calendar of all cycling events. As always, if there is an event you know about that’s not on our calendar contact us, and we’ll add your event on and possibly add it to the weekly round up.

Thursday, April 12

Driveway Crit Series
5 PM, The Driveway, 8400 Delwau Lane
Weekly Thursday night road racing through October that takes place on the closed car-free driving course at the Driveway. Races include Cat 3/4 women’s and juniors race at 5:00, Cat 3/4 Race and Women’s Open at 5:30, Kids Fun Lap at 6:20, Cat 4/5 Race at 6:25, and Pro/Cat 1/2/3 at 6:55. Races registration Weekly: Men $25, Women $10, College Students $10, Juniors $10. 5PM Junior race is free. Additional races $10 each. Season Passes: $650. USA Cycling annual or one day license and helmet required. One days for sale at race.

Thursday Night Bike Polo
5:00 PM, Metz Park, 2407 Canterbury St
The Austin Bike Polo Club’s holds 3 hardcourt matches a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at Metz Park. All bikes and skill levels are welcome and spare mallets and balls are available if you don’t have any. Check out our article on bike polo for more info.

Thursday Night Social Ride
7:30 PM, Plaza Saltillo, East 5th & Comal
“So dudes and lady dudes, it’s that time of the week when we ride bikes and party again! This week well take nice stroll through Some part of Austin, stop at some park, and go to that one bar were we got a free keg and great food and drink specials! ENDUP: Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar.” Meet up at 7:30, ride at 8:00. Read our article on the weekly ride. Join the Social Cycling Facebook Group.

Friday, April 13

The 16th annual Political Pedal
5 PM, Austin City Hall Plaza
Since 1997 each year we help connect the Austin City Council candidates, the Travis County candidates and other candidates with the cycling community while riding on the common denominator of 2 wheels! 4:45 pm (gathering); 5pm – 5:30 pm (candidate speeches); 5:30 pm – 6pm (ride); 6 pm – 7:45pm (happy hour).

Saturday, April 14

Sprint Techniques At The Veloway
9 AM, Veloway, 4848 La Crosse Ave
Co-sponsored by Velocity Cycling and the Austin Cycling Association. No, we can’t turn you into Robbie McEwen, but we can show you how to accelerate your bike faster than you do now. Why? Pick one: Because there are times when you need to accelerate to escape a tight spot. Because you want to beat your buddy to the next town limit sign. Because sprint training builds leg strength like squats but isn’t boring. Or just because going fast is FUN! We’ll do about 10 repeats of 150 yard sprints, focusing on technique and getting max explosive power into each pedal stroke. Total ride distance will be about 20 miles. Please RSVP to stgetr@gmail.com so we can plan for enough materials.

Mellow Johnny’s Scout-A-Ride: Short But Sweet
NEW TIME! 9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s, 400 Nueces St
Saturday mornings spent exploring City of Austin bike routes finding new neighborhoods and ways to get around on your bike. This week’s theme: Short But Sweet. 12-15 mile route that promises some hills and fun. This is a double Scout-A-Route ride day with an afternoon museum tour that has a separate ride listing. Join us for a pre-ride coffee or snack at 8:30 at Juan Pelota Cafe. Helmets required. If driving to the shop, please park in the street.Contact:Stephanie at Stephanie@mellowjohnnys.com.

Art City Austin
10 AM- 6 PM, Cesar Chavez Street at Austin City Hall
Invigorating the streets, plazas and open spaces with art of all kinds, Austin’s Cesar Chavez Street and the 2ND Street District play hosts to a one-of-a-kind, weekend-long cultural celebration. Part art festival, part block party, Art City Austin features nationally recognized artists, local food and musicians, kids’ activities and art installations that bring the community together to enjoy great art for the entire family in one of the most beautiful areas of downtown. Rarely car-free, Cesar Chavez Street becomes a vibrant community hub where Austin’s oldest art festival and biggest block party presents a celebration of culture that invites you to meet your neighbors, bring your friends, explore your city and be inspired. Art City Austin will transform Cesar Chavez, the S. First Street bridge and the 2ND Street District surrounding Austin City Hall into a two-day festival and community-wide celebration. Activating streets by opening them to people and creating an environment of culture and fun is central to the mission of Art Alliance Austin. Art City Austin encourages attendees to explore the city and walk, bike, or park and ride to the festival by partnering with Capital Metro to provide free admission to Metro Pass holders, free admission to those who ride their bikes and park at the Mellow Johnny’s Bike Valet and offering free parking and shuttle from MLK and Congress Ave.

Second Annual Pace Bend Mountain Bike Festival
Noon- 5 PM, Pace Bend Park
Join us for our Second Annual Pace Bend Mountain Bike Festival. Take advantage of this beautiful spring weather with a short trip out to Pace Bend for loads of mountain biking fun. There will be something for riders of all skill levels and kids of all ages. Pack up the family and we’ll see you at Pace Bend Park.

Cultural Campus Concert Crawl
Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St
A special afternoon Scout-A-Route. Ride size limited. RSVP required. Explore art, history, the humanities, and science while enjoying a casual bike ride! Co-hosted by Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop and the Austin Cycling Association, this no-drop, co-ed group ride is perfect for the cyclist new to riding or bike commuting, returning to the bike, or just looking for a more casual ride. Total mileage is about 6 miles. We will be walking a bit indoors so plan accordingly if you are sporting cleats. On this route, we’ll visit museums that are part of Austin’s Cultural Campus: the Harry Ransom Center, Texas Memorial Museum, the Visual Art Center, and the Blanton Museum of Art. Docents will briefly share museum highlights, and you will enjoy musical performances from the Butler School of Music Chamber Music Outreach Project at each stop. Join us for a pre-ride coffee or snack at 12:30 at Juan Pelota Cafe. Helmets required. If driving to the shop, please park in the street.

Sunday, April 15

Pace Bend Mountain Bike Race
9 AM, Pace Bend Park
Join in on Second Annual Pace Bend Mountain Bike Race:
7:30 AM- Registration opens
9 AM- Cat 1, 3 10 mile loops
11 AM- Cat 2, 2 10 mile loops
1 PM- 10 and under/12 and up race, 4miles/6 miles
1:30 PM- Cat 3, 1 10 mile loop

AFWC Ladies Ride
9:00 AM, Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop, 400 Nueces St.
Join the women of the Austin Flyers Women’s Cycling Club every Sunday for an intermediate, ladies-only ride. This friendly, 2.5-3 hour ride averages 15-16 mph, with routes varying each week. It is a great opportunity for women looking to continue their fitness, learn new routes and meet new riding partners. Beginner women are encouraged to check out the Saturday Scout-a-Route ride for a shorter, more casual route.

Tuesday, April 17

Dirt Remedy Race Series
5:30 PM, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, 1600 City Park Rd
The Dirt Remedy Race Series is a mountain bike racing series to cure your urge for short track mountain bike racing at Emma Long MTB Trails, TUESDAY’s in APRIL & MAY 2012. $20/race (save $5 with a protein rich canned food item), 2nd race = $5!
5:30- 1st timers clinic
5:40- Beginner’s Race (C)
6:15- Intermediate Race (B)
6:55- Expert Race (A)
6:56- Single Speed (A)

Austin Bike Chix Beginner Ride
6:30 PM, Northwest District Park, 7000 Ardath St.
There is a new series of bike rides in town for those new to cycling or for those that just need to dust off that bike. Austin Bike Chix will be offering a series of rides to Austin Area adults. The rides will start at Northwest Park on March 22 at 6:30 PM and will continue on Tuesdays for 6 weeks. The series of rides will be more like mini clinics (with topics ranging from chains to hills) to give new riders knowledge about the bike and confidence to be able to do the shorter distances on some of the local charity rides and beginner rides in town. These rides are perfect for those wanting to do ride in the Tour de Cure or are a first time triathlete. We will be riding on the road, all bikes are welcome. All rides are free.

Social Cycling Austin’s Yoga Ride
6:30 PM PM, Doug Sahm Hill, Butler Park
Bikes + yoga = fun! This yoga class itself is designed specifically for cyclists and appropriate for all levels including beginners. 6:30pm Meet on Spiral Hill, hang out, meet your fellow yogis, drink some hydrating beverages, etc. 7:00pm Ride to a mystery spot where we will have an hour of yoga. 8:15pm – 8:30pm Ride bikes even more! 10 miles or so. More if you’re up for it . Moderate pace, no drops.

Wednesday, April 18

Social Cycling Austin’ Hump Day Nooner Ride
11:45 AM, Lamar Blvd Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
We meet on the ped. bridge at 11:45am, get to know your fellow riders, ride out at 12:15pm. Ride up a hill or two and head to get a refreshing beverage and ride to get lunch. Rides are between 10 and 20 miles. The route is determined on the fly.

This week the League of Bicycling Voters released their endorsements for the Saturday, May 12 City Council election:

Mayor: Both Lee Leffingwell and Brigid Shea
Place 2: Mike Martinez
Place 5: Bill Spelman
Place 6: Sheryl Cole

Visit their site for a full list of reasons behind the endorsements. If you want to vote in the May 12 election you have until this Thursday, April 12 to register with the Tax Assessor’s office.

The 16th annual Political Pedal this Friday

Since 1997 each year we help connect the Austin City Council candidates, the Travis County candidates and other candidates with the cycling community while riding on the common denominator of 2 wheels!

4:45 pm (gathering); 5pm – 5:30 pm (candidate speeches); 5:30 pm – 6pm (ride); 6 pm – 7:45pm (happy hour).

Hosted by Scott Johnson (your organizer), the Austin Cycling Association, Uncle Billy’s Brew and Que, Mellow Johnnys bike shop. Please RSVP. Complimentary food provided while it lasts.

Details: please call Scott Johnson at (512) 389-2250 (H) – land line or e-mail scottaj1@juno.com