by Mark Smiley | Apr 19, 2024 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Lazer Urbanize MIPS: The Lazer Urbanize MIPS helmet has a panoramic lens that protects from debris and an LED taillight.
This publication has recently reviewed electric bicycles and it goes without saying how important a quality helmet is when riding these or any bike. Bicycle helmets are crucial safety gear designed to protect cyclists from head injuries in the event of a crash or impact. Some helmets feature MIPS technology (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which is designed to reduce rotational forces on the brain during certain impacts.
With improvements in battery capacity and packaging, it isn’t surprising to see the rise in E-Bike popularity. Battery assisted bikes are now available in everything from high-performance carbon fiber bikes to urban cargo bikes. One challenge with E-Bikes is the fact that they typically have higher sustained speeds compared to standard bicycles.
The following four helmets are ones to consider when shopping for a helmet.
Lumos Ultra E-Bike Helmet
Lumos is known for its smart helmets designed for cyclists, featuring integrated lights and turn signals to enhance visibility and safety on the road. It also has an integrated eye shield which is a nice feature to protect you from debris on the road. The Lumos Ultra E-bike helmet retails for $199.95 and features additional impact absorbing EPS material and is certified to NTA-8776 standards. This means that while it still looks like a bicycle helmet, it protects against higher impact speeds and covers a larger part of the head.
“After researching smart helmets, I was sold on this particular helmet based on the ease of functionality and high level of safety it provides me,” said Ralph Meder. “I like the weight for long rides and the adjustability for a proper, secure fit as well as the added bonus of the flip visor for night rides. I highly recommend this helmet.”
This helmet not only protects, which is most important, it also keeps you visible to others on the road. The Lumos Ultra has a front-facing white light and two rear red lights that provide extra visibility in all directions. The lights are easily controlled using a Bluetooth remote control and can even be controlled with hand gestures from a device such as an Apple watch.
The Lumos Ultra also offers an optional automatic brake light feature, available with the Lumos Remote. This feature alerts drivers behind you when you slow down or stop, adding an extra layer of safety to your rides.
With all of the bells and whistles, one might ask about comfort. All of the components are balanced in a way where it is a comfortable piece to wear. With 22 vents to keep your head cool and wicking pads to prevent sweat build-up, it is one of the most comfortable helmets on the market.
Lumos Ultra has customizable lights, sleek design, long battery life (for the lights), and innovative features, making it a solid helmet for group rides, exercise rides, and night rides. For more information or to purchase, visit www.ridelumos.com/products/lumos-ultra-e-bike.
Sena R2X
Another helmet to consider
Sena R2X: The Sena R2X’s claim to fame is the built in Alexa feature and the capability to speak to other riders while in transit.
is the Sena R2X. Sena’s product range includes a variety of communication systems, Bluetooth intercoms, helmet accessories, and other related devices. The wheelhouse for this company is the commitment to innovation in the field of helmet communication technology.
This helmet features Alexa built in which is a unique concept. The integrated speakers and microphone allow users to use the R2X’s communication features and speak directly to Alexa. It also allows you to connect to your phone to listen to music and for phone calls. In addition, Sena’s Mesh Intercom allows riders to communicate hands-free with any other Mesh user (R2 EVO, R1 EVO, M1 EVO) within a half-mile range. Expect the battery to last eight to 12 hours. These electronics have a two year warranty.
The Sena R2X will also work with Google Assistant and Siri just like any other headset connected to your phone via Bluetooth. The Sena R2X has an aerodynamic design with 12 intake vents for cooling/airflow and three exhaust vents. The inside is well padded and the chinstrap has a pad that velcros over. A dial at the back of the helmet adjusts tightness and fit.
Speaking of the back of the helmet, this helmet also has an integrated rear light with three brightness settings.
For more on the Sena R2X, visit www.sena.com/product/r2x
Thousand Chapter
Thousand is a brand know
Thousand Chapter: The Chapter MIPS helmet is backed with a one-year warranty and has one of the most stylish designs on the market.
n for its stylish and safety-focused bike helmets, and MIPS. Thousand started in 2015 when they launched a Kickstarter campaign and have been shipping helmets ever since. The name came from a goal of helping to save 1,000 lives by making helmets people actually want to wear.
Chapter MIPS Helmet retails for $145 and, in our opinion, is worth the money. It includes a 30 lumen taillight that magnetically attaches to the helmet or multi-use adapter, premium visors to reduce glare and increase your field of vision, and one of the most unique features, a secret poplock.
The poplock has access to a hidden channel behind the logo mark. Simply thread your U-lock or chain lock through. If your helmet is ever stolen while locked to your bike, Thousand will replace it for free. Also, if you are involved in an accident and your helmet is damaged, Thousand will replace the helmet for free. In addition to added security, it has eight vents which we felt kept a cool and comfortable ride.
As commuter helmets go, the Chapter model checks all the boxes especially when it comes to safety. The light runtime is about what a standard commute would take. According to the company the taillight has a one-hour runtime on solid and two hours on flashing.
For more information, visit www.explore thousand.com/products/mips-helmet. Thousand offers a one-year limited warranty and accident replacement.
Lazer Urbanize MIPS
Lazer is a well-known brand that produces helmets for various activities, including cycling. One of the most stylish helmets we reviewed was the Lazer Urbanize MIPS helmet which retails for $169.99. It is an E-Bike rated helmet with eye-shielding panoramic lens.
Lazer Urbanize MIPS: The Lazer Urbanize MIPS helmet has a panoramic lens that protects from debris and an LED taillight.
The removable clear panoramic lens protects from debris on the road as well as wind chill. The lens attached using integrated magnets on the lens and the helmet itself, making it easy to remove or place in a flipped stowed position.
Additionally, a rechargeable LED taillight on the rear provides nighttime safety. Lazer has also made the rear taillight removable allowing the large vent hole where it mounts to be used to slide a lock through to secure the helmet. These features combined with the included winter kit that protects your ears from the cold, make the Urbanize a compelling helmet for commuters or E-Bike riders.
Lazer has also incorporated a MIPS liner inside the helmet which can reduce the chance of injury for certain impacts. The MIPS liner in the Urbanize is nearly a single uncut piece that wraps around the interior of the helmet.
The Urbanize includes a winter kit. With this kit you receive two ear covers and a foam vent blocker. Combined with the lens, the winter kit keeps you protected from cold wind chill while riding without the need for a beanie or additional headwear. For more information, visit www.lazersport.us/products/urbanizemips.
by Mark Smiley | Mar 18, 2024 | Travel
Gaylord Rockies will house a golf and interactive gaming simulator available to rent for fun, interactive social gatherings, or private practice sessions.
by Mark Smiley
Soccer: The goal is simple: You get five kicks to get the ball past the All-Star keeper and find the back of the net.
Jewel Jam: In Topgolf’s take on the classic match-three puzzle game, rack up points by matching three or more gems of the same color in a row or column. A little precision and a lot of luck could start a chain reaction that sends you to the top of the leaderboard.
Gaylord Rockies Resort opened its first Topgolf Swing Suites, housed within their Mountain Pass Sports Bar.
The Topgolf Swing Suite features two simulator bays and a variety of virtual games–including signature Topgolf target games, Zombie Dodgeball, Hockey, Baseball, Football, Carnival games, and more — paired with comfortable lounge seating, HDTVs, and food and beverage service.
“As Colorado’s largest combined resort and convention center, we are experts in providing extraordinary spaces for gatherings. Our partnership with Topgolf allows us to offer another fun and unique experience for quests,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of the 1,501-room resort. “Since Full Swing simulators come with games tailored for both novices and experienced golfers, all participants can enjoy themselves.”
Up to eight people can play, eat, drink, and hang out in each bay. The space will be available to rent for business and social gatherings, including birthday and bachelorette/bachelor parties, team building events, corporate meetings, and more.
The Topgolf Swing Suite opened at Gaylord Rockies in February 2024, taking its place as the fifth location in Colorado to host Topgolf Swing Suites. For updates, visit www.gaylordrockies.com/dining.
by Valley Gadfly | Feb 19, 2024 | Travel
Shamrocks & Shenanigans Set To Color Denver Green; Then Bunny Kisses & Easter Wishes Make Us Good Eggs
by Glen Richardson
May your heart be light and happy, may your smile be big and wide, the Mile High City is again Shamrockin’ & Rollin’ to Dublin Day in Denver.
Always celebrated with enthusiasm, with a bit of Irish blarney and a touch of magic too, St. Patrick’s Day begins at 9:30 a.m. on March 16 with the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade west of the Mississippi River and one of the largest in the U.S.
With an Irish kiss, plus a snog o’ bliss, this month is egg-stra special with Easter falling on March 31. Hallelujah! Denver ends the month bringing baskets full of spring things to do ranging from egg hunt extravaganzas and bunny bolts to scrumptious spring feasting.
Mile High March: The largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade west of the Mississippi River steps off at 9:30 a.m. on March 16.
Magic Irish March
The parade will start on Wynkoop St. at 19th Ave., turn southeast down 17th Ave. before turning northeast on Blake St. — renamed Tooley St. for St. Paddy’s Day — then continue on Blake St. until 27th Ave. For a good viewing spot, people begin arriving at 6 a.m.
As in previous years, the parade is expected to draw more than 200,000 spectators. It will feature 10,000 plus participants, including Irish step dancers, marching bands, bagpipers, and elaborate floats.
The Mile High version is renowned, drawing nearly half a million people downtown on parade day. The St. Paddy’s Day crowd is believed to be Colorado’s largest single gathering in one place.
Pub Grub
Cherry Cricket Ballpark. Both the Cherry Creek and Blake St. locations offer deals in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, but the downtown space offers close access to the parade. Enjoy beer specials all weekend — including green Coors pours — plus Irish dishes such as Irish beef stew. Information: 303-297-3644.
The Irish Rover. This S. Broadway pub with a long lineup of Celtic brews, plus outdoor and rooftop seating, is the perfect St. Paddy’s Day spot. Try the Corned Beef Reuben & Fries, Shepherd’s Pie, and Bangers & Mash. There’s a Tent party on the 17th, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Information: 303-282-4643.
Corned Beef & Cabbage: Slice of Irish- American culture is no longer served in Denver except at Monaco Inn Restaurant for St. Paddy’s. Enjoy for lunch and dinner on Monday March 18.
Monaco Inn Restaurant. Corned Beef & Cabbage originated as part of Irish-American culture, but is no longer served in Denver. A dozen years ago this South Monaco Parkway restaurant started serving the dish as the Saint Patrick’s Day special. Restaurant is closed on Sunday, but is serving on Monday, March 18, for lunch and dinner. Information: 303-320-1104.
Scruffy Murphy’s. Rustic knickknack- filled Irish bar and beer garden on Larimer St. serves up suds, Scotch & snacks, plus live music. Kitchen serves a few Irish mainstays like Shepherd’s Pie, and Bangers and Mash. Information: 303-291-6992.
Easter Ends March
Worship Services
Easter Sunrise Service: Easter begins early with the Colorado Council of Churches’ 77th Easter Sunrise Service at Red Rocks Amphitheater at 5:30 a.m. on March 31. Gates open for services in a dramatic and spectacular setting at 4:45 a.m., pre-worship service music begins at 5:30 a.m., with services starting at 6 a.m.
Free and open to the public, seating and parking are on a first-come basis. Reserved parking-seating is sold out. The event is not collecting food donations this year.
Stunning Sunrise: The 77th Easer Sunrise Service at Red Rocks Amphitheater is March 31, 5:30 a.m. Gates open at 4:45 a.m., pre-worship music begins at 5:30 a.m.
The Blood Brothers — a six-piece band that plays rock, folk, country, blues, and worship music — will entertain. Additional details were not available as the Chronicle went to press. Information: 303-825-4910.
Cathedral Basilica: Holy week at the Basilica on the corner of Logan St. and Colfax Ave. has the church’s most beautiful liturgies. Holy Saturday Vigil is 8:15 p.m., Easter Sunday Mass is at 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Information: 303-831-7010.
Saint John’s Cathedral: Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Colorado at 1350 N. Washington St. Easter Services are at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., & 11 a.m. There will be an Easter egg hunt for children following the 9 a.m. services on the East Lawn. Information: 303-831-1350.
Egg Hunts
Celtic Charm: This rare variation of the three-leaf clover, according to Irish tradition represents luck, love, faith, and hope.
Infinity Park: Get the kids excited about Easter early by taking them to the Glendale Easter Eggstravaganza at Infinity Park’s Turf Field on Saturday, March 23, 10 a.m. There are three age group hunts: Ages 0-3, 4-6, and 7 to 12. Only one parent is allowed in egg hunts for children under the age of seven. No parents are allowed with children age 7+. Parking is in P1, located on the northeast corner of Kentucky & Cherry. Information: 303-639-4711.
Four Mile Park: One of the Valley’s biggest and far from conventional Easter Egg Hunts is at the 12-acre Four Mile Historic Park March 30, with events at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The event includes a search for golden eggs, each concealing special prizes.
This year the park has crafted three distinct egg scrambles catering to kids of all ages. The youngest — aged four and under — can partake in a hunt in the kiddie corral. Meanwhile, older kids — aged five-nine and up — can engage in two separate hunts.
Post-hunt includes photos with the Easter bunny, and spring-themed crafts. A kid-friendly concert by Animal Farm features Inspector Magic. There’s also a Victorian Egg Rolling contest plus Magical Egg Chairs. Delectable snacks are available from food trucks, plus shopping at the Spring Marketplace. For adults, the Four Mile Bar features mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, and a fully stocked bar. Information: 720-865-0800.
Egg-citing Eating
Egg-citing Egg Hunt: Four Mile Historic Park hosts one of the Valley’s biggest Easter Egg Hunts on March 30, at 8:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m.
Edge Restaurant: Hop over to the Edge Restaurant & Bar in the Four Seasons Hotel downtown for their annual Easter brunch. A raw bar, appetizers, salads, several entrée options, plus a carving station are usually offered. Information: 303-389-3050.
Ellyngton’s: Celebrate the holiday with breakfast and Easter brunch in the restaurant’s regal 19th-century dining room at the Brown Palace Hotel. Choices usually include waffles, pastries, omelets, salads, sushi, grilled meats, other choices. Information: 303-297-3111.
Fire Restaurant: Experience brunch at the indoor-outdoor Easter setting in the ART Hotel on Broadway. Spring omelets, much more, plus a Bunny Menu for the kids. Information: 720-709-4431.
Local Jones: For a tasty holiday morning in Cherry Creek North, do brunch at this classic bistro in the Halcyon Hotel. Always delightful. Information: 720-772-5022.
Monaco Inn Restaurant: Presenting annual Easter special from noon to 8 p.m. Restaurant is serving Colorado Spring Leg of Lamb with Greek potatoes, Greek Salad, and Avgolemono Soup. Menu also has other Greek & American specialties. Saganaki appetizer, plus homemade baklava for dessert. Information: 303-320-1104.
by Mark Smiley | Jan 19, 2024 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Ranger S: The cruiser style Ranger S from Heybike is a foldable ebike suitable for commuting to work, grocery store runs, or mountain biking.
In the December 2023 edition of this publication, we reviewed the Heybike Cityrun, an electric bike that most riders would find suitable to have in their garage. Another option to consider from the same manufacturer, Heybike, is the Ranger S.
The Ranger S has a larger motor than the Cityrun at 750W. In addition to the hydraulic brakes, it has a folding mechanism of the Ranger S for those with limited space or that want to tuck it away when not riding.
This ebike excels in urban areas as it features pedal assist to get up to speeds of 28 mph and many safety features making it a good choice for city riding. The pedal assist is a more gradual acceleration which has less of an immediate jerk forward than most ebikes.
Reviews online have touted the comfortable ride quality with its cruiser-style riding position. In our tests, the bike was a comfortable and zippy ride through town. At 72 pounds, it is not the lightest on the market but after riding, it is not something that will weigh on your mind.
Many riders expect a battery that will last. The ebike’s battery life is impressive, offering up to 55 miles on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted long rides. Also, they expect ebikes to be in a certain price range. At time of press, this bike was listed for $1,299. This price point is c
Foldable: The Ranger S is foldable, making it convenient to store, ideal for those that live in the city.
onsidered affordable for the specs that are included with it.
Riding any bike in most cities is both convenient and sometimes dangerous. Fat tires with splash guards come standard
on this bike, and as most of Heybike’s fleet have, you’ll find large bright lights in front and rear with integrated bright turn signals to inform those around you which direction you are going and be easily seen. And, the horn is loud enough so someone inside a car can hear.
As with most bike computers, the Ranger S features a display for current speed and distance traveled, alongside which power level out of five you’re currently set to and the battery level. Consider downloading the Heybike app to have accurate readings on battery level and so forth.
The battery is removable with a key and can be charged on its own which is a nice feature if you want to only carry the battery into your office if commuting to work.
The Heybike Ranger S stands out as a feature-rich, versatile folding ebike. It balances performance, safety, and user convenience. Whether you’re navigating city streets, commuting, or embarking on mountain biking adventures, the Heybike Ranger S is a reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable ride experience.
To learn more about the Ranger S, visit www.heybike.com/products/ranger-s.
by Mark Smiley | Dec 15, 2023 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Unagi is known for their sleek and high-quality electric scooters designed for urban commuting and personal transportation. The Model One is portable and easy to use.
Electric scooters, often referred to as e-scooters, are small, two-wheeled vehicles that are powered by electric motors. They have become increasingly popular for urban transportation in recent years.
E-scooters are equipped with electric motors that provide propulsion. These motors are typically mounted in the scooter’s rear wheel. They are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The capacity of these batteries determines the scooter’s range, which is the distance it can travel on a single charge.
Many electric scooters are designed to be foldable, making them portable and easy to carry. This feature is especially convenient for users who need to combine scooter travel with walking or public transportation.
Electric scooters have handlebars with hand grips, throttle controls, and brakes. Riders stand on a platform with one foot on each side of the front wheel. Electric scooters are commonly used for short trips within urban areas. They can be a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation for commuting, running errands, or exploring a city.
Most people are familiar with the sharing services in Denver. Companies such as Lime operate fleets of electric scooters that can be rented via smartphone apps. Users can find and unlock available scooters, ride them to their destination, and then leave them for the next rider.
But, have you ever considered owning one of these products? One brand to consider is Unagi. Unagi is known for their sleek and high-quality electric scooters designed for urban commuting and personal transportation. Unagi scooters are designed with a focus on both form and function, featuring a minimalist and aesthetically pleasing design while offering impressive performance and features.
As mentioned earlier, Unagi offers a foldable design and long battery life. The scooter does not have a removable battery but charging it to 100% takes less than two hours. The Unagi Model One Classic retails for less than $1,000 and comes in your choice of five different colors.
The Levy Plus E-Scooter has a range of 20 miles and can also reach speeds over 18 mph. The triple braking system makes it one of the safest on the market.
Unagi places a strong emphasis on design aesthetics, using high-quality materials and finishes to create a premium look and feel for their scooters. The Model One is a simple scooter to ride and lasts for hours with an easy-to-read dashboard, smooth braking, and impressive speeds. In our tests, the Unagi Model One reached 18 mph which is fast enough for most users. For more information or to purchase, visit unagiscooters.com.
Another scooter to consider is the Levy Plus which has a range of 20 miles and can also reach speeds over 18 mph. It is also portable as it folds and weighs a total of 30 pounds. The Levy Plus features cruise control which is a nice feature when cruising down the street while paying attention to traffic.
The triple braking system includes a front e-brake, rear disc brake system, and a rear fender brake for backup. The LED front and rear lights allow for nighttime riding while remaining visible and safe. On our test, we were impressed with the shock absorption. It performed nicely on the streets of Denver. It also has 10 inch tires which makes it suitable to handle rougher situations — like gravel paths and dirt roads.
All Levy scooters come with a six-month warranty and this particular model retails for $729. For more information or to purchase, visit www.levyelectric.com.
by Mark Smiley | Nov 16, 2023 | Travel
by Mark Smiley
Solid Ebike: The Heybike Cityrun is an ebike to consider if in the market for one. It is powerful, comfortable, and reliable.
Electric bikes have grown in popularity over the last couple of years. To meet the demand and to try to reduce the amount of vehicles on the road, the city of Denver launched a rebate program in April 2022. It has issued over 7,000 vouchers totaling $6.5 million since then and more on the way.
According to a survey conducted by the city of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency, cyclists are replacing 3.4 vehicle trips every week with electric bike trips, which according to the office, totals 150,000 vehicle miles per week.
The vouchers are good for 60 days and can be presented at participating ebike dealers for an immediate rebate at the register. Most are good for $300 toward the purchase for a regular ebike, and $500 toward the purchase of a cargo ebike. Lower income qualified candidates may be eligible for as much as $1,200.
There are many options to consider and most good options are all over $1,000. The Heybike City Run is one to consider as it fits the bill for what most people are looking for. It retails for $1,299 at the time of press and can be purchased using a voucher at Boost Ebikes at 2344 S. Broadway in Denver.
Versatile: The Heybike Cityrun suits users of all heights and weight.
The Heybike City Run takes some time to assemble as most ebikes do, approximately 30-45 minutes. Once assembled, the learning curve is minimal. Most riders can easily fit comfortably as it has a load capacity of 350 pounds. The technology syncs with both android and IOS users with its own app. The smartphone app lets you customize and update the bike, control whether it’s locked, and track your rides. It is not meant to be anti-theft, but it does make it more difficult to steal if it turns off if the Bluetooth is not connected.
Comfortable: The Heybike Cityrun’s seat is comfortable for any user. The step through design also makes it easy to get on and off.
The 500W motor and 48V 15Ah battery make it more than suitable for long rides. In fact, you should be able to travel between 55 and 65 miles on a charge. This bike has the capability of going 21 mph depending on weight and throttle.
Heybike just launched a new commuter bike, called the Horizon. The Horizon is very similar to the City Run with a few differences. The Cityrun cannot be folded, while Horizon can be folded. Compared with battery installation, Cityrun’s battery is installed at the bottom of the frame, while Horizon’s battery is installed at the top of the frame. The minimum height of Horizon riders is higher than that of Cityrun, and the motor on Horizon is more powerful than Cityrun, Horizon is 750W and Cityrun is 500W.
The Cityrun is a bike that gets good reviews from trusted sources and as mentioned before, should fit what most people are looking for in an ebike. It’s an affordable, comfortable, and powerful ride that gets going quickly when stopped and can handle long distance travel on a charge. It also has turn signals and a brake light along with other safety features including hydraulic-disc brakes, a loud horn, an LED headlight, and hands free access.
For more information on the City of Denver’s ebike voucher program, visit energyoffice.colorado.gov/ebike-rebates. To learn more about the City Run, visit www.heybike.com/products/heybike-cityrun-electric-bike.
