And we're off

It was a long, cold winter, and Spring is not exactly behaving so far, but warmer weather is on the way. TBN 2015 rides are starting in the next few days, and while you'll still need winter gear for a while, the weather will warm up soon, we promise. As always, you can get ride details from the calendar section of the TBN website. Always check the site two hours before start time in case of cancellation. 

You can also check the ride schedule on your mobile device at  www.tbn.ca/mobile. Download the link to your smartphone now, and never miss a ride, or an event.

You do not have to sign up for rides. Just show up at the start point and show your membership card to the ride leader.

Please note, the email address to contact the coordinator of our new series of Thursday night rides is thursdays@tbn.ca. An incorrect address was listed in the last edition of Quick Release.

Talking tourists

Also coming up, on April 30, is a special bicycle repair and maintenance class, where TBN member Nani Reddy will offer a hands-on demonstration of how to perform your spring bicycle tune-up. Nani is a registered bicycle mechanic and instructor with Toronto District School Board. This interactive course will provide a 10-point check list on brakes, wheels, spoke tension, plus tips on fixing flats, and checking your chain and cogs. BYOB (bring your own bike). Watch the website for details of this session, which will take place at the Holy Spirit Catholic School at 3530 Shepherd Avenue East. 

Don't forget that we are now offering a vast array of TBN jersey options this year -- sleeveless, long sleeved, vests, jackets, wind vests, wind jackets.

Check the website for the options, and get your order in soon -- it takes 2-3 months from when you place your order to when you receive your new gear so you really don't want to wait too long. Check instructions on how to order your new jacket or jersey.

New TBN partners mean more discounts

TBN signed up two new partners for your cycling pleasure. We are proud to be offering special deals with Reflx Canada, which makes glow-in-the-dark decals for your bicycle that will enable you to be seen in the dark from all angles. TBN members can enter TBNREFLX for a 15% discount.

OK Cycle Tours is offering TBN members a discount on its challenging USA trip through Shenandoah Valley & Blue Ridge Mountains. Details of this trip can be downloaded here, or from the OK Cycle website. Dates are flexible; contact OK Cycle Tours for more information.

Click retailers and services for more TBN member discount offers. You can help expand this list by visiting your favourite shop and encouraging them to join the program by contacting publicity@tbn.ca.

Get involved

TBN volunteers run all of our activities, including all of the cycling trips, Cyclon, Toogood Pond picnic, TNTO and much more. There are many small tasks that can use a set of hands so please contact president@tbn.ca to learn more.

We always need ride leaders and sweeps to make the ride programs work. If you can help, please access your profile on the TBN website and check the box "Ride leader/sweep" in the section "Do you wish to volunteer." Or, email touring@tbn.ca.

Remember to visit the TBN calendar of events to find out more about what's coming up.

LET'S RIDE!