Just Do It

Bilenky Cycle Works Urban Junkyard Cyclocross

by Dianca Potts

Sun., Dec. 21, noon, free to watch, $5 to compete, 5319 N. Second St., 215-329-4744, bilenky.com

The Bilenky bicycle gurus are stirring things up with the third annual Urban Junkyard Cyclocross. Converting the neighboring auto junk space into a race course of dilapidated vehicles and greasy spare parts, the folks at Bilenky are fixin' for a cyclecross of epic proportions. "Last year we had over 30 racers and 100 spectators. People were sitting and standing on junk cars," says BCW prez Stephen Bilenky. "There was everything from unicycles to 29er mountain bikes to cruisers."

Already distinguished by the diversity of its racers, bikes and crowd, this year's cyclocross is bigger, better and dirtier than last year's obstacle course. "We're making the laps longer with more sections for running and carrying or pushing," says Bilenky, "We have a ramp jump, which was expanded last year to include an over-under, along with the expected jagged trails through junk cars, greasy water-filled puddles and the cut-up corpse of a van or bus to spelunk."

With an admission fee less pricey than their famous frames, BCW's Cyclocross will end with a party open to bike lovers of all stripes. "Since an urban bike-lifestyle has been exploding we'll have turnout from all the Philly neighborhoods," says Bilenky. "We [even] have some bike shop rivalries, so that drama can unfold in a competitive setting."

Don't forget to wear a helmet.