Tom Fihe became a serious cyclist while attending Kent State University.  Having purchased a rebuilt bike, Tom rode it for transportation, working out and fun.

     Fast forward to today, Tom still rides his bike for the same reasons.  When weather allows, Tom rides to his place of work at Appalachian Outfitters.  Since Tom’s Dad was in a motorcycle accident, Tom thinks about safety when he checks the weather to see if he’ll be riding his bike to work.  Tom offers this advice to fellow cyclists: “Be aware of your surroundings as you ride.  Realize that most motorists do not want to share the road.  Avoid conflict.”

     Tom enjoys cycling through the Merriman Valley…especially when he’s going downhill!  One of his favorite hills in the area is Oak Hill.  Tom enjoys cycling since, “It puts you in touch with your surroundings as compared to riding in a car.  Cycling also allow you to enjoy the scenery and have the wind in your face.”  Tom has strapped his camping gear to his bike and ridden to Stanford Hostel, located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  After camping out a night or two, he made his way home.

     In addition to cycling, Tom enjoys backpacking.  He has a backpacking trip planned to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.  He also plays soccer and visits the gym.

     If you haven’t seen Tom riding his bike through the Merriman Valley, you may have seen him performing with his band as their bass guitarist.  Tom has been performing with If These Trees Could Talk, since high school…about fifteen years in all.  His band was on a European tour a couple of years ago where they performed 16 concerts in 17 days.  His band had a headline spot for a festival in Belgium, with other performances in Germany, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Italy and the Czech Republic.  “It was quite an experience,” according to Tom.

     Tom makes his home in the Merriman Valley area, living in a recently purchased home with fiancée, Kristi Kelley, and their cat, Taz.  Tom feels fortunate to have the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with all its trails, close at hand.

     Tom purchased a bike from Blimp City Bike & Hike two years ago.  He has put 1,500 miles on his Kona Dew Deluxe, and marvels at the great condition in which the bike remains after all those miles.  He adds, “I really appreciate all the help Andy has given me in purchasing this bike, and taking care of any cycling needs that I’ve had.”  We appreciate Tom as a serious cyclist, friend and respect him as an excellent musician.  We wish Tom and Kristi much happiness in their new home and in their life together!