Thursday, February 17, 2011

New businesses along BRaB cater to cyclists

 The weather here in north central Ohio has been unseasonably warm and sunny. The sun is shining in my window as I type this and the temp outside is 55 degrees. This means all around the Back Roads and Beaches route, you'll see enthusiastic cyclists and runners out getting ready for another great season! And local businesses are gearing up for them.

Oberlin worker installs Back Roads and
Beaches spur route signage
The city of Oberlin has its own dedicated Back Roads and Beaches spur route that leads riders from the main route easily into the downtown business district and back. This winter, several new businesses have cropped up that will excite and entertain cyclists wanting to spend some time getting some great food and/or bike gear.

We hope to report on a new bike shop, cheese shop and pizza restaurant very soon, as they open. Currently, there are two new restaurants open within the city of Oberlin. Both feature healthy, fresh menu items.

The door is open at Café Sprouts!
Fresh juices at Café Sprouts
Café Sprouts recently opened on East College Street, within the newly established East College Street project. The eatery features a wide variety of fresh, natural foods including organics, vegan and vegetarian offerings. Their juices, smoothies and mylkshakes appear to be especially popular. Their shelves were stocked with delicious desserts, wraps, veggies, spreads, teas and soups. The offerings here are very diverse, it would seem anyone could find something tasty and filling! You might also think about stopping here before going out onto Back Roads and Beaches and picking up a wrap to go. I can easily envision their sunny little corner filled with cyclists!

Aladdin’s Tabouli
Dining Room at Aladdin’s
Contractors put the finishing touches
on the canopy.
Right smack in the center of town, on the corner of College and Main Sts., is a shiny, brand-new Aladdin's Eatery. If you aren't familiar with Aladdin's, here is your chance to give them a try! Aladdin's mission is “to provide our customers with unique, natural foods and at the same time, cater to their increased awareness and concern regarding health and nutrition.” The huge menu features many, many Lebanese/American food, vegetarian options, soups, pita pitzas, salad pockets, juices and much more. Everything is fresh and free of preservatives. The spacious dining room is spotless, bright and inviting as is the staff who warmly welcome all their customers. And of course, there are bike racks right out front!

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Adventure Weekend—Mountain Bike Ice Racing and More



No such thing as “post-holiday blues” this weekend. Embrace the winter and embark on an adventure weekend!

A truly original winter blast!
The North Coast Mountain Bikers have developed a cross country, mountain bike, ice course on Findley Lake at Findley State Park in Wellington, OH. (check out map below for directions) Racing will be Saturday evening, beginning at 6:30pm. Course will be lit by lantern—very magical and cool! According to the NCMTB club, these are the only ice races in Ohio. Details: Two classes-studded and non studded tires. (Nab says studded is much more fun, btw). There will be a bonfire and hot chocolate. $10 donation. This is a laid-back fun event with lots of friendly folks so come on out and join them.

Make it a winter weekend getaway by including snow shoeing and/or cross country skiing to the mix. Findley State Park is a great place to enjoy either. You can also combine a visit to some of our local wineries and great local restaurants. Several great lodging options are within a 20 minute drive of Findley State Park. The Oberlin Inn is currently offering a winter escape package which includes one night accommodations and breakfast for 2 for $110 (inclusive of all taxes and gratuity). The Hallauer House Bed and Breakfast is also just up the road a bit and offers a warm welcome to cyclists. A little further north, in the charming town of Amherst is 5 Corners Bed and Breakfast. Here you can book one of several packages that can include massage and/or a wine getaway. 5 Corners is also offering a special package for this Friday and Saturday nights only: $89 plus a complimentary bottle of champagne or sparkling juice. (sounds like a great way to top off an exciting evening of ice racing!) Just mention the keyword “bike” when booking.

Check out all the other great winter events taking place this weekend to round out your weekend. Indoors and out, you'll find a great adventure.


View Thorn Mountain Bike Trail at Findley State Park in a larger map

Friday, November 12, 2010

Thorn Mountain Bike Trail-Condition report for Nov. 12, 2010


The Thorn Mountain Bike trail is clear, fast and dry. The North Coast Mountain Bikers have even cleared the entire trail of leaves. Come on out and enjoy!


View Thorn Mountain Bike Trail at Findley State Park in a larger map

Monday, November 1, 2010

Red Flannel Bike Ride set for Sunday, November 7, 2010



The 35th annual Red Flannel Metric Century (67 mi) and half-metric (33 mi) will depart this Sunday from the Oberlin Community Service Center (map) at 9am. The ride is presented by the Lorain Wheelmen. For many, this ride is the traditional end-of-season ride before cleaning up and storing the bike for the winter. For others, it's only the beginning of the fall/winter riding season.

The ride usually brings out hundreds of riders of all levels to ride the scenic course and enjoy the great homemade foods. Cost is $20 and can be paid at the start of the ride. The first 350 riders get a commemorative bottle. You'll find hearty food along the way like black bean soup and chili. Sag wagon and repair service will be available for the ride. Click here for a list of local accommodations. Make a weekend out of it and attend a local performance or art gallery. There will be plenty going on. And don’t forget all the great local cuisine that’s available to hungry participants after the ride! Check out the ride website for more info. The Lorain Wheelmen are a great group of people and are contributors to the Back Roads and Beaches Bike Route!