LEWISTOWN — Whether you seek the embrace of the sun over picturesque landscapes or a spirited ride under the shimmering stars and moonlight, Mifflin County offers a splendid canvas for cycling enthusiasts.
For solo riders, navigating the roads and trails can be a daunting experience, even for seasoned cyclists. However, you need not face this challenge alone, as a vibrant community of cycling enthusiasts awaits you.
Two Brothers Bicycle Co. in Burnham, owned by dedicated long-time riders Chris Johnston and his brother, Nick, manage the Two Bros. Bike Co. Strava Club, which took root in mid-June.
Chris reflected, “It has exceeded our expectations. Initially, our gatherings were modest, with nine or ten participants. But now, we consistently average around 14 or 15 cyclists. The community keeps growing as more people become aware of it.”
This cycling club welcomes riders of all levels and backgrounds. Chris emphasized inclusivity, saying, “We want everyone to feel welcome, so don’t hesitate to join us. You will always find companions to ride with, never riding alone.”
Some riders possess expertise in specific difficulty levels, while others are simply along for the journey, relishing scenic excursions through the breathtaking landscapes of Mifflin County.
The club organizes three types of rides: road, gravel, and mountain. Riding together not only enhances safety but also fosters a sense of camaraderie in a pursuit that can sometimes be solitary.
Two Brothers Bicycle Co. established their retail shop on Valley Street in Lewistown in April 2021, later relocating to 309 S. Logan Blvd., Burnham. The brothers – 41-year-old Nick resides in Belleville, while Chris, 38, lives in Port Matilda – aspired to launch a cycling club, a common sight in many cities once their business was firmly established.
Chris explained, “We didn’t want to rush into things. We aim to encourage newcomers who may not be familiar with the trails or the cycling community. You will always be part of a group, with fellow riders ready to offer assistance and guidance.”
To minimize intimidation and foster growth in the sport, rides typically commence and conclude at the local trail heads or even the Two Bros. Bike Co. shop. Ride details, including total distance, elevation profiles and expected duration are posted on Strava, enabling riders to prepare adequately for each week’s adventure. Strava aids in ride planning, organization, and allows riders to track their mileage.
“It provides insight into your progress and helps you prepare for the ride ahead,” Chris noted. “Strava is widely considered the most popular cycling app.”
This information is also shared on social media, particularly the shop’s Facebook and Instagram pages. In addition, the Facebook group, Miffco Cycling, was created to provide a non-commercialized space for cyclists to connect. Currently, it boasts 238 members and was initiated just this summer.
After each Tuesday ride, the Johnston brothers host a post-ride gathering at their shop or trail head, complete with refreshments and a brief recap of the day’s events, facilitating interaction among riders.
Chris said the club has received the warm reception, saying, “People have been exceptionally receptive to our bike shop. Our group rides have been an amazing experience.”
They also create videos to entice new members. “We produce videos featuring our riders in action. These videos may encourage those who are on the fence about joining us. We aim to release one each week, showcasing the highlights of our rides,” he added.
Currently, the club’s members span a wide-age range, from 28 to 82, covering riders of all types on all sorts of bikes, including ebikes.
The club’s inaugural ride was a road trip that covered a comfortable distance and showcased various highlights, marking the beginning of their adventures. Typically, road rides extend for about 25 miles, gravel rides for around 20 miles, and mountain rides range from 10 to 12 miles.
Chris explained, “When we plan gravel or mountain bike rides, we ensure a route with a picturesque lookout, or a mix of terrain to keep it interesting. Road rides offer panoramic vistas across the valley and avoid heavy traffic.”
Even as the weather turns colder, the club remains undeterred and intends to continue riding through the winter months. Chris remarked, “As long as people show up, we’ll keep pedaling. Snow on the trails isn’t an issue, as we’ll use fat bikes with wider wheels.”
The Johnston’s vision includes dividing the club into smaller groups based on experience, offering beginner, or intermediate/advanced courses. “Newer riders will tackle shorter distances, less elevation, or a more relaxed pace,” Chris said.
Although their personal preferences lean towards mountain and gravel riding, he acknowledged the competitiveness of road and gravel rides. Chris explained, “When riding in a group, there’s a sense of friendly competition that often culminates in a spirited sprint to the finish. It’s all in good fun, with plenty of banter along the way. The road and gravel rides offer more opportunities for conversation, which I truly enjoy.”
Ready for an adventure? Secure a helmet, embrace a spirit of exploration and join the cycling club as they embark on their Tuesday rides.
