Biller’s Bikes | Havre de Grace, Maryland

Ben Sollee "Ditch the Van Tour" at Biller's Bikes SUN Stage in Havre de Grace, MD--2 Shows!

2010-08-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Ben Sollee @

SUN Stage

SOLD OUT...Next Stop, Bike Philly!

By bicycle and bike trailer, cellist
Ben Sollee will deliver his genre-
bending cello and vocal act from
San Diego to Kentrucky. The only
two-show performance on the tour!

Ben will bring his show to the SUN
Stage on Thursday, Sept. 9 and
Friday, Sept 10 (8:30 shows) before
heading to Philadelphia's famous
Bike Philly festival same weekend.

www.bensollee.com tour informaion

Ruck 2600/2800 Bianchi Mountain Bikes

2010-06-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

It's fun opening boxes of Italian Bianchi bicycles. Today we assembled two terrific hardtail mountain bikes; the Ruck 2600 and 2800. Looks like both are already sold; one bought by a drop-in customer and the other over the phone. As a retailer, it's especially rewarding when good bikes find good people. Happy Birthday, Bianchi!

Biller's Bikes | Via Nirone 7 Road Bike

2010-06-08T21:57:00.000-07:00

Road bikes aren't for everyone, but the Via Nirone 7 (original Bianchi shop address) is a remarkable "entry-level" creation. A better bicycle than bikes twice its price. See it in the Bianchi windows at the shop. Bianchi turns 125 years old this year, oldest bike company in the world. Ciao!

SUN Cinema June 17: The Man Who Would Be King

2010-06-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

SUN Cinema presents The Man Who Would Be King (1975)

Mini-epic adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s story about two English ex-soldiers who leave British-ruled India for a remote part of Afghanistan in order to become kings. Starring Sean Connery, Michael Caine and Christopher Plummer.

The SUN Cinema at Biller's Bikes at 450 Franklin Street, Havre de Grace, MD shows classic films in quality big screen projection. Our sound system and room acoustics are locally acclaimed.

Admission, $7 requested donation. The concessions stand sells hot popcorn, boxed candy and beverages. Movie starts about 8:00 pm. For SUN Cinema info, see Biller's Bikes Events.

Thanks to Swank Motion Pictures for licensing agreements.

Wilmington Grand Prix Criterium Race Video

2010-05-21T20:50:00.001-07:00

Krank Boom Clank | We Got Your Weird Bikes!

2010-05-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Krank-Boom-Clank - Kinetic Conveyances of Whimsy

Krank-Boom-Clank (KBC) is a kinetic industrial arts collective located in Santa Rosa, CA, including David Farish, Skye Barnett, & Clifford Hill. They build kinetic conveyances of whimsy and other mutant ride-able sculptures of delight.

Wilmington Grand Prix Begins May 21

2010-05-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

The Wilmington Grand Prix is just two weeks away. May 21 is the Bike Summit and Kick-off party and May 22 is the street festival and race day. We have added an opening ceremony parade this year. Parade staging begins at 8:30 with a march at 10:00 am. Governor Jack Markell will be the Grand Marshall of the Parade to Fight Hunger. We will follow the parade with a four person foot relay race. The Miles for Meals race will benefit the Food Bank of Delaware.

We hope you can participate by; joining the parade, volunteering, attending and helping spread the word about the day. In addition to the pro and amateur races we will have many free activities for children including moon bounces, slides, pitching machines, orbitron, face painting etc.

Public House and Chelsea Tavern will each have an outdoor course cafe. For more information about the schedule for the day and course map visit wilmgrandprix.com.

Julie Miro Wenger

302-545-8305
juliemirowenger@gmail.com

L.A. Confidential at SUN Cinema May 20

2010-05-12T04:45:00.000-07:00

Click Here for Trailer!

L.A. Confidential (1997)

Director Curtis Hanson captures the duality of 1950s Los Angeles in this striking film noir adaptation of James Ellroy's novel. The City of Angels might be sunny, inviting, and glamorous to the rest of the world, but it's also filled with corrupt cops, elegant hookers, murder cover-ups, and manipulative paparazzi, just the tip of the iceberg.

It's impossible to know exactly who's trustworthy and who's not as three detectives (Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Guy Pearce) each use their own tactics to investigate a coffee-shop massacre.

The script by Hanson and Brian Helgeland maintains the fragile framework of human relationships developed in the novel, while 45 different shooting locations give the film a solidly unique tone and feeling of integrity, immersing the viewer in 1950s Los Angeles.

The entire cast is first-rate, with compelling performances from Spacey, Crowe, Pearce, James Cromwell, Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger, and David Strathairn.

The SUN Cinema at Biller's Bikes at 450 Franklin Street, Havre de Grace, MD shows classic films in quality widescreen. Admission, $7 requested donation. The concessions stand sells hot popcorn, boxed candy and beverages. For SUN Cinema info, see Biller's Bikes Events. Thanks to Swank Motion Pictures for licensing agreements.

SUN Cinema Summer Film Series

2010-05-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

Here's the complete Spring/Summer SUN Cinema Season!

May 20 L.A. Confidential
June 17 The Man Who Would Be King
July 15 Beach Blanket Bingo
August 19 O Brother Where Art Thou
September 16 The Black Stallion

See Biller's Bikes Events for details. Admission: $7.00 Donation
Concessions stand sells boxed candy, hot popcorn and drinks.

Franklin Street Renovations, Havre de Grace, MD

2010-05-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

Franklin Street will be undergoing major sidewalk and street construction in May 2010. Biller's Bikes has customer parking in the rear of the building (off alley/Lodge Lane). Depending on the need, we may use the big corner showroom door as the primary entrance. Easy enough to figure out once you're here.

Here's the minutes from the City Council in 2009 (the work was postponed to the present):

BUSINESS FROM THE MAYOR:
Comments from Mayor Dougherty:

He did share the following announcement regarding Streetscape Project in the Havre de Grace Main Street District that will commence in October, 2009:

“Streetscape improvements will be taking place on the 400 block of Franklin Street, 300 and 400 block of Pennington Avenue and at the intersection of Washington Street, Market Street and Green Street. The State of Maryland, through the Community Legacy Program, has funded $166,000 to the City of HdG for these improvements. The improvements include new curbs and gutters, lighting and the continuation of the signature brick sidewalk. Construction will begin on or around October 12, 2009 taking into consideration the Graw Days celebration. It is a priority for the businesses to be impacted as little as possible and for the shortest period of time possible.

These improvements had been postponed previously due to the improvements at the water treatment plant and the impact that project had on access to public parking. It was important that the expansion was completed before any streetscape improvements began.

Folding Bikes of the Present and Future

2010-04-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

Folding bikes of the present and future. Thanks to Ellie Mencer for the cool post. These aren't like the bikes you grew up with!

http://www.ecofriend.org/entry/20-folding-bikes-for-convenient-travelling-in-green-lanes/

Barnett's Bicycle Book Available for Study at Counter

2010-04-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a generous donation from friend and customer Mitch F., folks can review detailed bicycle technical information in the four-volume Barnett's Bicycle Book. Available for study at the "Walnut Bar." Thanks, Mitch, an extremely helpful and thoughtful gift to us and all our customers.

First Friday/Rowdy Boys Return to SUN Stage May 7

2010-04-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

The Rowdy Boys and Friends kick-off the bike shop's 2010 Biller's Bikes SUN Stage First Friday season with their irascible blend of country, rock, pop and jazzy music. Special guest appearances are planned...event is free.

Thanks to Paul McGuire for his artistic direction. To George Wagner (he made it to 50 fingers old) for his snowblower this winter. And special thanks to MacGregor's Restaurant, which will be catering all of our 2010 First Friday events.

Our thanks to Director Duke Thompson and the Maryland Conservatory of Music for loan of the Kimball spinet piano now gracing the bike shop's essential SUN Stage. It'll come in handy!

Sheldon Brown's Bicycle Glossary

2010-04-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

You'll often hear people say "What does (the late) Sheldon Brown, say?" about a bicycle history or technical question. See http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_ra-e.html for the answer.

An amazing man, with an amazing depth and breadth of bicycle knowledge, all neatly indexed on the internet. See for yourself.

Conowingo Dam Across the Susquehanna River

2010-04-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

Here are the Google Earth references of the RT 1 Conowingo Dam Road crossing, the only legal crossing of the Susquehanna River in Maryland. Trust us, avoid it (even experienced touring cyclists). Very dangerous. Much more dangerous, even, then the equally antiquated Hatem Bridge (where bike crossing is illegal). The long, hilly high-speed approaches to the Conowingo Dam are treacherous, too.

http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Baltimore,+Maryland&ll=39.666301,-76.170444&spn=0,359.922838&z=14&layer=c&cbll=39.666024,-76.17059&panoid=euZ8vjDk_tiQzoSZzPtAcA&cbp=12,195.32,,0,10.61

Worst Water Crossings on Bicycle

2010-04-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

Join in the Bicycle Forum at:

Touring - Worst legal water crossings in the States

and share your experience and knowledge of ways to cross bodies of water by bicycle.

Biller's Bikes offers its Susquehanna River RT40 Hatem Bridge Bicycle Crossing Service as an example among other alternatives farther north up the mighty Susquehanna.

Note: Today we took a 67-year-old Chinese man across the Hatem Bridge who is riding a Huffy with pannier bags from Washington, DC to Philadelphia. Rich experience!

WAG the DOG: SUN Cinema, April 22

2010-04-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the Havre de Grace City Council election!

Robert DeNiro stars as a Washington spin-master who "directs" a TV war to distract the public's attention from Presidential scandal.

Dustin Hoffman received an Academy Award nomination for his role in this biting political satire directed by Baltimore's favorite son Barry Levinson.

Worth seeing just for Willie Nelson's theme music "Old Brown Shoe" for the fictitious "war hero" played by Woody Harrelson.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday at 8:00 pm Biller’s Bikes SUN Cinema presents your favorite film classics on the big, wide silver-screen with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound.™ Always a fun social event!

Concessions stand sells piping hot gourmet popcorn, ice-cold beverages and boxed theater candy. Admission: $7 Suggested Donation. Exhibit licensing by Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.

See Biller's Bikes Events for SUN Cinema information.

The Big Lebowski: SUN Cinema Thurs April 8 @ 8

2010-04-03T20:39:00.001-07:00

The Big Lebowski is a 1998 American comedy film
written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. Jeff Bridges
stars as Jeffrey Lebowski, an unemployed Los Angeles
slacker and avid bowler, who is referred to and also
refers to himself as "The Dude".

Also starring John Candy, Steve Buscemi, Philip Seymour
Hoffman, David Huddleston, Julianne Moore, Tara Reid
and John Turturro, the film has often been compared to
Raymond Chandler's novel The Big Sleep.
The Big Lebowski has become a cult classic over the
years and has been called "the first cult film of the
Internet era". (From the creators of Fargo.)

See Biller's Bikes Events for SUN Cinema info.

Biking Directions in Google Maps Include East Coast Greenway Routes

2010-04-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

This note from our friend Brian:

Google Maps now features directions customized for biking, helping you find a convenient and efficient route that makes use of dedicated bike trails or lanes and avoids hills whenever possible. [Also displays East Coast Greenway Routes.]

To find biking directions, select "Bicycling" from the drop-down menu when you do a directions search on Google Maps or turn on the "Bicycling" layer in the "More" menu at the top of the map.

http://maps.google.com/biking

-- ---------
Brian Judy
Red Aphid Animation and Interactive Media
http://redaphid.com

Bike Commuter Info (Greater Baltimore Region) Bike to Work Day

2010-03-31T19:42:00.000-07:00

With Aberdeen Proving Ground right around the corner, Havre de Grace has its share of avid bike commuters. Folks interested in bike commuter info may want to visit the Baltimore Metropolitan Council's bike commuter website at:

http://www.baltometro.org/content/view/79/142

Coming up Friday May 21, 2010 is Bike-To-Work Day. We'll post more on this popular event, soon. Biller's Bikes is pleased to be an annual contributor to Bike-to-Work Day. There are early B2W Day details on the site link above.

Biller's Bikes New Spring/Summer Hours 2010

2010-03-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

Disraeli Gears: Ultimate Derailleur Gear History and Collection

2010-03-22T06:03:00.000-07:00

Disraeli Gears is a website chock full of facts, history, specs, meaning and explanation of bicycle derailleur gears. The site is loaded with neat pictures and anecdotes, bike gear heads will love it.

Thanks to Jim Atkinson for bring the site to our attention.

SUN Cinema March 25 | SEABISCUIT

2010-03-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

SEABISCUIT (2003)

A great American story from Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Gary Ross, Seabiscuit stars Jeff Bridges, Tobey Maguire and Chris Cooper. Based on the inspiring true story of three men - a jockey, a trainer and a businessman - and the little broken-down racehorse who took a Depression-weary America (1938) on the ride of a lifetime.

See Biller's Bikes Events for Sun Cinema and events info. Licensing by Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.

2010-02-27T17:31:00.000-08:00

A HARD DAYS NIGHT
at the
SUN CINEMA

Thurs, March 11 @ 8:00

See Biller's Bikes Events for
complete SUN Cinema info.

Licensing by Swank Motion Pictures

SUN Cinema Feb 11: Paul Newman in "Our Town"

2010-01-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

The play [filmed live on-stage] is ''Our Town,'' Thornton Wilder's quintessentially American meditation on mortality from 1938. And in the Westport Country Playhouse's rickety production, this is the galvanizing moment for the audience. For the actor who delivers the speech as Wilder's narrator, the avuncular character known as the Stage Manager, is Paul Newman.* And it is lost on no one that this American film icon and emblem of virility is a silver-haired grandfather." Bruce Weber, New York Times

Thursday, Feb. 11, 8:00 at the Sun Cinema. For info, see Biller's Bikes Events.

*Newman nominated for Tony Award (politely declined)

Filmed at the Westport Country Playhouse. SUN Cinema exhibition rights provided by PBS Pictures.

SUN Cinema Jan 28: Alfred Hitchcock's Finest Work "North by Northwest" starring Cary Grant (1959)

2010-01-18T20:52:00.000-08:00

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

Alfred Hitchcock (1959)

North by Northwest is a 1959 American suspense film
directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring Cary Grant,
Eva Marie Saint and James Mason, and featuring
Leo G. Carroll and Martin Landau.

The screenplay was written by Ernest Lehman, who
wanted to write "the Hitchcock picture to end all
Hitchcock pictures". Presented in vivid Vistavision.

See Biller's Bikes Events for more info. Show starts at 8:00; doors open 7:30.

Barry Levinson's TIN MEN at SUN Cinema (Jan 14)

2009-12-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Barry Levinson's TIN MEN (1987) is a hilarious comedy of dueling aluminum siding salesmen set in 1963 Baltimore. It is the second film of Levinson's "Baltimore trilogy," and arguably his finest, starring Danny DeVito, Richard Dreyfuss and Barbara Hershey.

TIN MEN will re-open the SUN Cinema for the 2010 season. Films are shown every second and fourth Thursday night at 8:00.

Requested donation is $7. There is a complete concessions stand selling fresh-popped popcorn, boxed theater candy and drinks. Proceeds assist in funding Biller's Bikes events. Thanks to Swank Motion Pictures for exhibition rights.

It’s A Wonderful Life | Holiday Open House Dec. 20

2009-11-19T12:16:00.000-08:00

Drop by the Holiday Open House on Sunday, December 20, from 5 to 9. We'll be showing It’s A Wonderful Life in the SUN Cinema showroom (starting the film at 6:00 pm) while the party continues shop-side. Mexican buffet and special holiday beverages. (Folks wishing to do so, bring a dish or beverage; RSVP for suggestions). Good food, drink and people.

Please note the SUN Cinema is dark through the holidays. Next SUN Cinema night is Thursday, January 14. Films, see Biller's Bikes Events.

Three Days of the Condor | November 12 @ 8:00

2009-10-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

SUN Cinema presents

THREE DAYS OF THE CONDOR

Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway, Cliff Robertson

Paramount Pictures; Directed by Sydney Pollack

(1975)

Click on poster for original film trailer (YouTube).

When bookish CIA researcher Joe Turner’s (Robert Redford) fellow agents are gunned down, he discovers that his government employers want him dead just as much as his coworkers’ assassins do. When Joe is forced into hiding, a beautiful artist (Faye Dunaway) comes to his rescue.

Wait Until Dark @ SUN Cinema Oct 22

2009-10-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

Wait Until Dark

Gripping tale of a blind woman confronted in her apartment by three criminals with an incredibly elaborate and sinister scheme. One of the first true jump-out-of-your-seat thrillers.

Starring Audrey Hepburn, Alan Arkin, Richard Crenna,Efrem Zimbalist Jr., Jack Weston, and Julie Herrod. Distributed by Warner Brothers Pictures (1967) SUN Cinema's film exhibit license is provided by Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.

See Biller's Bikes Events for more info. Show starts at 8:00. Limited seating.

2009 Graw Days "Wheeled Horse Parade" Winners

2009-10-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Havre de Grace Main Street "Graw Days" horse-racing celebration and street festival in Havre de Grace started out Saturday wet, cold and windy. But at 2:00, the sunshine and the hardiest of wheeled horses and riders left the gate. Good times and lots of "horsin' around."

Thanks to Pam Wexler and Judy Plitt for the judging. Kudos to riders and parents (trainers) Evie, Kym and Kyle Hopkins, Leah, Gary and Elaine Getz-Hirsch, good friends Dana and Ebert, and to all the businesses who donated prizes. A special thanks to Summer Merson, Miss Harford County Outstanding Teen, for the fun awards presentation. Extra special thanks to Ellie and Kimberly for their stick-to-it-ness. We'll see everyone at the 2010 Wheeled Horse Parade at next year's Graw Days celebration and street festival.

Ike (Biller's Bikes Cat) w/ Mary Frances Love's Bianchi Alfine

2009-10-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

Paula Casagrande, owner of Big House Signs in Havre de Grace, captured Ike (of cats Ike and brother Mike) with the Florida-bound Bianchi Alfine. An original print now decorates the shop. Thank you, Paula. Send us a postcard, Mary Frances. Bello!

Mary Poppins at the SUN Cinema: A Spoonful of Technicolor

2009-09-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Oct. 8: MARY POPPINS at the SUN Cinema

Dick Van Dyke and Julie Andrews star in the 1964 singing, dancing and flying cinematic classic Mary Poppins presented in brilliant big screen Technicolor. TM

Biller's Bikes brings the "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" kids' and adult classic to the SUN Cinema on Thursday, October 8, at 8:00 pm.

Big-screen movies in downtown Havre de Grace! See you at the SUN Cinema!

Movie admission: $7 requested donation. The fully equipped concessions stand sells fresh-popped popcorn, ice cold beverages, hot coffee and your favorite boxed theater candy. Concession sales and admission donations assist Biller's Bikes in local trail-building efforts.

Beware! Seating capacity is just 35 terrific seats.

Films are presented in the newly installed widescreen and Dolby Surround Sound (TM) SUN Cinema every 2nd and 4th Thursday at Biller's Bikes, 450 Franklin Street, Havre de Grace.

Meet you downtown at the Biller's Bikes SUN Cinema!

See Biller's Bikes EVENTS page for updated movie schedule information.

Film royalties and licensing rights by Swank Motion Pictures, Inc. TM

"Wheeled Horse Parade" at Graw Days | Oct. 10

2009-09-15T12:28:00.000-07:00

Here's Walt with Evie, last year's Wheeled Horse Parade winner at Havre de Grace Main Street's "Graw Days." The Graw Days festival, October 10, 2009, celebrates HdG's horse-racing history and lore.

For Graw Days and Wheeled Horse Parade info, see Biller's Bikes Events Page. Drop by Biller's Bikes, call or CLICK FOR REGISTRATION PACKET.

Decorate your bike like a pony--win prizes. To get your Wheeled Horse Parade poster, click here. Time for horse 'n' around...

Event Produced by Havre de Grace Main Street, Inc.

25,000 Page Views at www.billersbikes.com

2009-09-13T04:03:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes website at http://www.billersbikes.com/ recorded over 25,000 pageviews this 2009 season. The Trails and Trails Links pages (A-H and J-Z) have informed over 2,500 local and visiting bicyclists of upper Chesapeake Bay cycling opportunities and organizations. We're very pleased for this opportunity.

COMING NEXT WEEK TO BILLERSBIKES.COM: Bianchi Bicycles page...

SUN Classic Cinema 2nd & 4th Thursdays

2009-09-03T22:56:00.001-07:00

DOUBLE INDEMNITY at the SUN Cinema

Biller's Bikes brings another big screen classic to the SUN Cinema on Thursday, September 24, at 8:00 pm. Big-screen movies in downtown Havre de Grace! See you at the SUN Cinema!

Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck and Edward G. Robinson star in the haunting detective thriller, DOUBLE INDEMNITY, directed by Billy Wilder in 1944. This engaging b&w film, rarely shown on TV, packs the house at the Smithsonian Institution every year.

Movie admission: $7 requested donation. The fully equipped concessions stand sells fresh-popped butter popcorn, ice cold beverages, coffee, tea and your favorite boxed theater candy. Concession sales and admission donations assist Biller's Bikes in local trail-building efforts.

Beware! Seating capacity is just 35 terrific seats...

Films are presented in the newly installed Widescreen and Dolby Surround Sound (TM) SUN Cinema every 2nd and 4th Thursday at Biller's Bikes, 450 Franklin Street, Havre de Grace.

SNEAK PREVIEW: Thursday, October 8, 2009. Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke star in the audacious singing, dancing and flying classic, MARY POPPINS (1964). We all need a spoonful of sugar.

Meet you downtown at the Biller's Bikes SUN Cinema!

See Biller's Bikes EVENTS page for movie schedule information.

Film royalties and licensing rights by Swank Motion Pictures, Inc. TM

Ciao Bello! Biller's Bikes Sells Italian Bianchi Bicycles

2009-08-08T04:52:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes now sells Italian Bianchi bicycles. Bianchi is the oldest bicycle manufacturer in the world, founded in 1885 in Milano by savvy Eduardo Bianchi. An industry innovator, the company is the first to put pneumatic Dunlap (inner tube) tires on bike rims and created the first mountain bike (WWII). Bianchi has provided bikes for world champion road racing bicyclists for over a century. The famous Bianchi "Celeste Green" is a perfect complement to our growing new bike business.

Biller's Bikes embraces the Bianchi as a natural addition to its popular SUN bicycle line-up. We will gradually introduce selected Bianchi "cross-terrain" hybrid bikes this summer and fall (most of these price under $600). We have the stunning Milano Citta tourer and the versatile Ruck hard-tail mountain bike in the shop's display window, now. Come by and take a look. Ciao Bello! (Hey, beautiful)

Refurbish that Faithful Classic

2009-08-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, someone commented, there are many more bikes around here!

Biller's Bikes has refurbished over 800 customer favorites since the $55/plus parts special began last season. Refurbishment brings your quality road, mountain or town bike back into play for a fraction of new bike prices.

Most refurbs cost around $90-125 with new tires and tubes and necessary parts. Labor is fixed at $55 and includes all cleaning, repair, adjustment and full guarantee. Those wanting to switch out or install any accessories, handlebars, seats, kickstands, etc., everything labor-wise is included. Now is your chance...work us hard!

The 800+ bikes we've renovated have included all shapes, sizes and price-ranges of bicycles built in American, English, Canadian, Belgian, Dutch, Austrian, Irish, Japanese, Korean, Singaporan, Taiwanese, Chinese, Dutch, Swiss, French, Italian, Mexican, Philippine, German, and Spanish bike factories. They've included regular adult and kids' two-wheelers, three-wheelers, choppers, and even a unicycle. Customers have hailed from DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and all the towns in-between. These bikes have been around!

There are some limitations. We'll look over your bike together, draw up a parts list, give an honest evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of the refurb, decide upon a go-ahead, and get to work. Our tires and parts prices are untouchable. Walter usually turns these jobs around inside a week. 800 satisfied customers and a spreading regional reputation speak to the quality and thoughtfulness of our work.

Great autumn bike riding is ahead and there's no guarantee the $55 deal will be around forever. Bring your bike by for an estimate. In most cases, if we're standing there looking over a ten-, twenty- or thirty-year-old bicycle, most of the decision making has already been done for us.

Refurbish that faithful classic!

Biller's Bikes Sells Car Racks...To Go

2009-07-29T19:31:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes sell car racks to transport bicycles. We love it. We help you discover the instant freedom to go ride bikes anywhere.

There are dozens of factors to consider. Your particular bike traveling needs and your vehicle type will narrow the choices considerably. Quality of construction is a given (the major brands are all very good.) Ease of use is paramount. Security is important. Cost is also a major issue. Every bike rack owner has a different set of important needs to fulfill.

Biller's Bikes has considerable experience in bike transport. We'll help you pick a rack. We'll put the rack (and bikes if you bring them) on your car together. (First-time installation of the rack on your vehicle is always free). We have seen hundreds of car/rack combinations, and will share what we have learned. Our prices are very good on this major lifestyle addition.

Drop by and ask us about bike racks. It always leads somewhere good...

Biller's Bikes
Havre de Grace, MD
http://www.billersbikes.com/

Rowdy Boys Return on First Friday, Oct 2, to Biller's Bikes Sun Stage

2009-07-28T18:10:00.001-07:00

Paul "P-Flat" McGuire and The Rowdy Boys and Friends will bring their R&B/Pop sound back to Biller's Bikes SUN Stage on Friday, October 2, from 7-10.

They're playin' all the favorites! Free music, dancing and beverages. Every show gets bigger and better. Drop by and enjoy the fun.

Come by and enjoy HOT, COLD, RAIN OR SHINE!

Kickstands Are Cool (Installed Free at Biller's Bikes)

2009-07-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes installs our fine alloy kickstands (generally $9.50 to $14.50) free-of-charge. We carefully custom cut and bolt-up the lightweight alloy kickstand through the maze of cables, funky frame and crank designs, and "step-to-the-street" wheel sizes to save your bike, everything near your bike, and your cool, calm self from the "Big Bike Down" situation. (We'll do it while you wait, but try to avoid busy Saturdays, please.) Kickstands, by the way, are cool again!

Handlebar Changes: Business as Usual at Biller's Bikes

2009-07-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

Customers are often having us change-over handlebars, usually to help establish the rider "higher in the saddle" and more upright on the bicycle. The parts aren't expensive (the most popular handlebars are about $20). In many, if not most, cases, brake cables must be changed to compensate. No big deal. It only gets more expensive, parts-wise, when shifter cables or handlebar stems need to be switched, and even that's not too bad. Usually, labor and parts combined is about $50-75. If this interests you, bring your bike by and we'll look over all possibilities, together. Every bike and every bike rider is different.

Biller's Bikes
www.billersbikes.com

Biller's Bikes Fourth of July "Giant Bike" Parade Hit

2009-07-07T18:15:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes' 9-foot-long, 7-foot-tall bicycle, pulled by Scott Hughes' 1949 Chevy pick-up truck, was a big hit at the Havre de Grace Fourth of July parade (July 5th). Thanks to all the builders, signmakers, drivers and riders who participated.

Thanks to Ellie Mencer at Havre de Grace: The Meeting Place and Paula Casagrande at Big House Signs for the photographs.

Front Derailleur and Chain Wear

2009-07-07T05:36:00.000-07:00

This time of year we see a lot of cyclists complaining about a lack of response in front derailleurs. Some main culprits are:

1) The shifters and/or cable. We always look here first. Generally requires parts.
2) The derailleur itself. If there's up and down/sideways play when you grab it by hand, could be the problem. Sometimes related with other wear issues in the drive train. Replacement only.
3) The chain rings are bent/worn etc. Depends on a lot of things going on around the crank.
4) The chain is damaged or "stretched" (rarely the case; we have a tool for measuring chain wear). Don't replace chains haphazardly. Usually a waste of time, money and expectations.
5) Everything is filthy dirty. Oddly, usually not the problem.

Don't blame the chain. It's usually not it. Bring the bike by and drop it off for a careful overnight or "in by 10, out by 5 inspection." Diagnostics are generally free of charge.

Walter

Rowdy Boys Return on First Friday Aug 7 to Biller's Bikes Sun Stage

2009-06-27T02:08:00.000-07:00

Paul McGuire, The Rowdy Boys and Friends will bring their R&B/Pop sound back to Biller's Bikes delicious SUN Stage on Friday, August 7, from 7-10 pm. They're playin' all the favorites!

Free music and dancing, ice-cold beverages, and another Aberdeen Ironbirds baseball ticket giveaway. Every show gets bigger and better!

Come by and enjoy HOT, RAIN OR SHINE!

PS: It's c-o-o-l inside this place!

Sadie and Dan McCrady's Excellent East Coast Greenway Adventure: It's a Wrap!

2009-06-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

Hello

Thanks to your help, I’ve managed to raise over $5,000 so far for East Coast Greenway Alliance. It's still not too late to accept donations, so please forward this message to those you think might be interested!

http://www.firstgiving.com/danandsadie

Sadie McCrady (and human Dan McCrady, too)

Trip summary:

- met two mayors, one mayor's represenative, one selectman
- interviewed for TV 3 times (1 time in their studio)
- interviewed for newspapers 6 times
- interviewed for website 1 time
- on TV at least 8 times
- on radio at least 4 times
- on a blog at least 6 times
- received unsolicited cash donations on trip 11 times (1 time while pedaling!)
- 2 flat tires (both on trailer)
- 2 accidents (both throwing Sadie out of trailer
- I was unaffected)
- 1 near accident (both Sadie and I would have been affected)
- 1 police escort into a city
- 1 bike breakdown requiring pickup
- 2 days biking in the rain
- 1 unsolicited offer to provide us lodging in their home
- 2 unsolicited offers to provide a meal and rest in their home
- 2 gifts of fresh fruit while passing by
- 2 offers to buy me a meal at a rest stop- and my favorite: 3 meals at Subway!!

DanVideo:http://www.wcsh6.com/video/default.aspx?maven_playerId=immersiveplayer&maven_referralPlaylistId=ef964eb8372141f1e757dab4921626c887182226&maven_referralObject=1151693464&maven_referrer=staf

*** About donating online *** It's very easy to support Daniel online - visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/danandsadie to make a donation. It takes a matter of minutes, is totally secure and you can even leave a message with your donation.

New Sun Bikes at Biller's Bikes!

2009-06-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes now has the Sun Drifter, a stylish hybrid cruiser, and the Sun Cruz, a cruiser with classic flared fenders and a cozy spring saddle. Come by and see the colorful SUN fleet, along with the already popular 7-speed Ruskins and Key Wests. See www.billersbikes.com/sunbikes for updates/photos as we publish them on the website. (Better yet, drop by.)

Biller's Bikes Now Has Parking in Rear

2009-06-15T09:06:00.001-07:00

Biller's Bikes now has customer parking in rear (off Lodge Lane/alley). We're planning a number of improvements, but, for now, the gravel is good, come on in. (Please stay off the new grass).

East Coast Greenway: Sadie and Dan McCrady Arrive in Moody, Maine

2009-06-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Sadie and McCrady relax in New Hampshire before arriving in Moody, Maine on their East Coast Greenway Maryland-to-Maine excellent adventure. Destination Portland, ME (on Saturday!) See her (and Dan's) dog blog at http://traildog-sadie.blogspot.com/.

Come meet Sadie in Portland, ME on Saturday, June 13

BIKE RIDE: bicyclists(and dogs in trailers) meet at 1:00 PM at Wainwright Recreation Fields in South Portland for a 6-mile ride along the South Portland Greenbelt.

WALK: A little before 2:00 PM, dogs & walkers join Sadie for a ¼-mile walk from the Liberty Ship Memorial to meet Mayor Tom Blake.

WALK: At the ferry terminal, a little before 3:00 PM, walk with Sadie to East End Beach to meet City Councilman Kevin Donoghue.Interviews with Sadie at 3:30 PM at East End beach. ‘Dog bones’ for all dogs.

Bicycle Shipping Boxes for Amtrak Use

2009-06-10T03:38:00.001-07:00

Planning an Amtrak bike experience? Call or drop by about cardboard bike shipping boxes at Biller's Bikes (required on Amtrak). We try to keep several around. They're free when we've got them (recycled weekly).

Sadie and Dan Reach Massachusetts: Greenway Excellent Adventure

2009-06-08T02:48:00.000-07:00

Dan and Sadie McCrady (latter pictured above) reached Massachusetts today on their Maryland-to-Maine East Coast Greenway fundraiser. See http://traildog-sadie.blogspot.com/ for their dog blog. Congratulations, dog/man trail blazing duo.

The East Coast Greenway (Maine to Florida) passes through Perryville/Havre de Grace. It's a happening vision begun in 1991 (now almost 25% complete). Contributions can be made through Dan and Sadie's very popular dog blog now gaining national notoriety.

Rowdy Boys Coming: July 3rd on SUN Stage

2009-06-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

Paul McGuire and The Rowdy Boys are coming back to Biller's Bikes SUN Stage on Friday, July 3rd, 6-9 p.m. Part of the "Havre de Grace Main Street" First Friday celebration. Free to the public, all are invited.

Note: This season, two First Fridays, two rain cancellations. Not at Biller's Bikes! The Rowdy Boys play, RAIN OR SHINE! See you the Fourth of July weekend at the SUN room...

Sadie and Dan McCrady on FOX News!

2009-06-06T19:17:00.001-07:00

Dan McCrady and his yellow Labrador Sadie have reached Rhode Island on their Maryland-to-Maine benefit East Coast Greenway excellent adventure! See their on-air interview on FOX News at:

http://traildog-sadie.blogspot.com/2009/06/watch-youtube-of-sadie-on-fox-news.html

Rhode Island is home of the the East Coast Greenway Alliance national headquarters. For Alliance membership and news see http://www.greenway.org/. Biller's Bikes is an East Coast Greenway trailhead.

Free Bike Air at Biller's Bikes

2009-06-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, free air. It's right outside, it's for bikes, it's free, and it's 100% air.

Air nozzle is set up for regular tire valves (called a Schrader valve). Maximum output is 105 lbs. (still enough to blow up some tubes so be careful). Inflate tire until you can just depress the tire sidewall with your thumb.

If you need to inflate a French Presta valve tube, come in when we're open. We keep a Presta valve pump attachment inside, and sell cute little screw-on adaptors for $1.50 (you only need one) for future use.

Note: Try putting air in your car/truck/van and we'll chase you away, cursing and screaming, cuz' this free air is for bicycles, only. Yeah...

Sadie and Dan in Connecticuit: An East Coast Greenway Excellent Adventure

2009-06-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

Dan and Sadie McCrady pose for a picture in Gulf Beach, Connecticuit. The dynamic dog-man duo are traveling the East Coast Greenway from Annapolis, MD to Portland, Maine.

For news and contributions to their Greenway effort see http://traildog-sadie.blogspot.com/

For Greenway information and memberships see http://www.greenway.org/

High-end Bike Quickie Tune-Ups: $22.50!

2009-05-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

Sure, we fix up and refurbish older bikes. (Our late-model Cannondale customers find that quaint!) We're more than comfortable and enjoy working with late model higher-end road and commuter bikes.

If you have a well-cared-for Cannondale, Trek, Specialized or Giant roadbike that just needs a quick tune-up and a little spit and polish, bring it by in the morning (Wed-Fri 10-2), pick it up at night (4-7). It's the $22.50 "Quickie" at Biller's Bikes. It's the last nickel cigar for regular bicycle maintenance.

Quickie tune-up includes a thorough maintenance cleaning and lubrication; brake and gear adjustment; chain check and lubrication; seat post maintenance; hub and sprocket cleaning, adjustments and inspections; tire air and inspection, and, a good steering once-over.

Call 443-502-2377 for more information and off-hours appointments. Parts from our stock are additional when occasionally required. (Be sure to ask for the Biller's Bikes "Quickie Tune-Up.")

Please note: Not all bikes qualify for the $22.50 tune-up. We'll let you know if your tune-up delves into repair work or pushes into the realm of refurbishment.

Christmas in July: Summer Bicycling Wish List w/ Free Shipping on Bike Part/Accessory Catalog Orders

2009-05-30T17:42:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes "Walnut Bar" is a great place to enjoy a cold beverage and browse the illustrated J & B Imports bicycle parts and accessories catalog. We also sell Park and Pedros bicycle tools. J & B, one of the largest parts houses in the U.S., offers thousands of "wish list" items. (J & B restricts all sales to bike shops.)

Shipping is fast and free. We batch special orders with our daily stock orders. Very fast turnaround, usually 1-2 days. Free advice, of course, and no return shipping when an item doesn't work out. More satisfying, cheaper and faster than internet shopping. Come in and try it out. It's Christmas all summer!

*Some orders require prepayment. And remember UPS does not deliver on weekends...

Dan and Sadie Reach New Jersey (Greenway Adventure)

2009-05-29T04:53:00.000-07:00

Dan and Sadie McCrady's Maryland to Maine East Coast Greenway excellent adventure is in its sixth day. Here is the two-wheel, six-legged duo in New Jersey at a Greenway kiosk. See http://traildog-sadie.blogspot.com/ for more news from the Greenway trails. Contributions to the fundraiser support the East Coast Greenway Alliance.

Rowdy Boys to Jam at First Friday (June 5)

2009-05-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Paul McGuire & The Rowdy Boys will bring their favorite R&B and Blues to Biller's Bikes SUN Stage on "First Friday," June 5, from 5-8 pm. The public is warmly invited, free. See www.billersbikes.com/events for more info.

Susquehanna River/Hatem Bridge Bike Crossing Now Free to East Coast Greenway Members

2009-05-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Biller's Bikes RT40 Hatem Bridge/Susquehanna River Bike Bridge Crossing is now free to East Coast Greenway members with proof of membership (single and dual cyclists, only). Modest rates for larger groups requiring the 8-bike trailer will be negotiated during crossing reservation. Rate for non-ECGA cyclists is $10 per bike/rider and includes a host of trail amenities. Twenty-four hours notice is requested for all Hatem Bridge crossings.

Unfortunately, the Hatem Bridge repaving currently in progress does not include a bike/pedestrian sidewalk. Biller's Bikes looks forward to the day when state officials can provide bus/bike racks service or a bike lane and our bridge crossing service is just a fond memory.

Walt and Mara

Biller's Bikes Havre de Grace 3rd Annual Memorial Day Party/Grand Re-Opening w/ The Hula Monsters

2009-05-14T03:51:00.000-07:00

Biller’s Bikes Grand Downtown Havre de Grace Re-Opening/3rd Annual Picnic w/ Rowdy Boys and the Hula Monsters

Come Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day) 12-8 and enjoy the BBQ, beer and beverages, baseball ticket raffles, and top-drawer bands at the annual party and grand re-opening celebration of Biller’s Bikes snazzy new downtown 450 Franklin Street Havre de Grace location.

Biller’s Bikes customers, family and friends are eagerly invited!

The Hula Monsters (featuring Mark Noone of the DC/Baltimore Slickee Boys and Rhodes Tavern Troubadours fame) and house favorite at Biller’s Bikes, R&B/Jazz band The Rowdy Boys, will rock n' roll on Biller's Bikes new SUN events stage.

Send-off of cyclist Dan McCrady and Sadie (the trailer dog) from Havre de Grace to New Calais, Maine on the East Coast Greenway

Bikes, BBQ, beer, beverages and burgers by Slingin’ Scott Burgermeister Extraordinaire: big grill, even bigger cooler!

Raffles of a number of sets of Aberdeen Ironbirds (Orioles’ Minor League baseball team) dugout tickets at Ripken Stadium

Requested Donation: $10/adult (kids are free; raffle included)

Bring your bicycle and enjoy bands, beer, BBQ and bike riding. This event happens rain or shine with all bands rockin’ on the Biller's Bikes showroom’s cool new SUN Stage. See you on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2009!

See http://www.billersbikes.com/ for additional information, shop hours and location, or call 443-502-2377. Biller's Bikes: Good Bikes, Good People.