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Justin Morgan?

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Justin Morgan? Justin Morgan Had a Horse is another of the books I enjoyed as a kid. Justin Morgan was a real person, and his horse became the founder of the Morgan breed. He lived in Vermont; so if we go riding there, maybe we can follow in his tracks. Or should I say, hoof prints? As Vermont is the Green Mountain State, I naturally think of it as being all mountainous. I imagine one steep, grueling climb after another; with summits at altitudes that have me gasping for breath. Vermont, then, sounds like a great place for mountain biking. Whether by MTB or road bike, I often wish I could visit the state in Fall, and see that famous Autumn foliage. There are various state parks to explore; and I sure would want to ship home a supply of maple syrup! For the roadie, Vermont offers various inn-to-inn tours that let you explore the lower Champlain Valley by bicycle. Ride over rolling hills, and visit the small villages. Luggage is transported, but otherwise these tours are self-guided. If you include Lake Champlain on your route, you might even see Champy! For the MTB enthusiast, there are inn-to-inn tours in the Green Mountains. Test your mettle! Ride over a variety of unpaved surfaces. Most of these trails are beginner to intermediate in difficulty. Even so, I suspect that I’d soon learn that I’m made of aluminum foil; not titanium.  Whoa, there! All those trails followed, and we still haven’t seen Justin Morgan? There are horseback trails in Vermont, too. Saddle up and trot away! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Shorts Circuit April 26, 2026 RIght Call April 25, 2026 Waiting for the Storm April 24, 2026 Shuffle the Days April 23, 2026 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Remember the Maine?

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Remember the Maine? This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” “Remember the Maine!” was a rallying cry during the Spanish-American war. We don’t have to remember the Maine while on a bicycle tour; but if we’re going to explore New England on two wheels, why not begin in Maine? It’s as good a starting point as anywhere else in New England, right? There are many trails to explore, from beaches to mountains. You can start with the Capital Area (Tour 21), with loops of gentle terrain that will suit most riders; and other loops of more challenging riding for more advanced cyclists. For lovers of history, the Kennebec & Moose River Valley (Tour 19) includes historical landmarks; low traffic; and wildlife. Fall is a great time to ride through the hardwood forests. The Lake Auburn (Tour 22) may well appeal to the MTB aficionado. It features short, steep hills, with varied terrain. Looking for something more urban? Try the Freeport and Brunswick (Tour 13) route. You’ll still be treated to views of the ocean, and have the chance to visit museums. Maine in the Summer is warm, and can be humid. Winters are long and cold; and likely to bring plenty of snow. Sounds good if you like to ski!   ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Elementor #160030 January 24, 2024 Bumpy Ride January 23, 2024 Wet Week January 22, 2024 Watching the barometer January 21, 2024 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Spice up the Peloton!

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Spice up the Peloton! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Mention of Hungary makes me think of this runaway-tempo polka. If I were working on sprints, playing it through my head might help me to keep my legs going. If I go bicycle touring through Hungary, of course I won’t need to ride that fast. Good thing, too; I don’t want to miss the scenery! Or wear myself out in ten minutes. It’s a tour, after all; not a race. Good, that’s settled. Now, which route do I want to tackle? There are so many that it’s hard to choose. Here’s one list. The Danube Cycle Path Passau-Budapest sounds interesting: Baroque towns; orchards; and, of course, many views of the Danube. EuroVelo 13, the “Iron Curtain Trail“, follows the former Iron Curtain. The trail stretches for 4,750 miles; and covers 20 countries. That’s one very long ride!  For a challenge, there’s the Hafen von Fonyód ride, with over 700 feet of climbing. That’s one way to spice up the peloton. There are some good reasons to explore Hungary by bicycle. Scenery; the people; the cuisine. There’s the excitement of visiting someplace new. And of course, fun!   ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Sunblock Day January 2, 2024 2024! January 1, 2024 Out with a Bang December 31, 2023 Seven-Up December 30, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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On the Equator

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On the Equator This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Want to stand on the equator? Maybe a bicycle ride in Kenya would suit you. But before I began such a trip, I’d like to know this: if I stood on that imaginary dividing line; and looked up at the night sky; would I be able to see both the Little Dipper and the Southern Cross? In theory, at least. I asked my brother-in-law, who is an astronomy buff. He says, yes! Where in Kenya would I like to ride? Coastal Kenya has a tropical climate. For me, the very word “tropical” elicits inward groans. It sounds too much like Summer at home: hot; humid; and oppressive. As you move inland from Kenya’s coast, the climate becomes more arid. I think I’d want an extra-large Camel-Bak if I were to ride there! And there are many routes to ride in Kenya. The Limuru route sounds attractive to me in at least one way: few cars! Not so attractive: in some months it can be foggy. If you wear glasses, take along some anti-fog spray. Visit during the drier months if fog would be too much of a problem.  The Diani route lets you visit Kenya’s southern coast. Enjoy riding the village roads and meeting the people there. For Muringato to Nyeri Hill, you’ll probably want a mountain bike. Not all the road is paved; and this short trail includes a steep climb! If mention of Kenya evokes thoughts of Christopher Froome (aka Froomey), you’re not alone. I wonder whether he ever took a ride on the equator. ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Getting Wild December 14, 2023 Sooner or Later December 13, 2023 Quantum Leap December 12, 2023 Afternoon Ride? December 11, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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The Buckeye State

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The Buckeye State This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” We haven’t visited the Buckeye State yet. How about taking a ride there now? We could start with the Ohio River Trail. The ORT has two components: the Ohio River Water Trail, and the proposed Ohio River Greenway Trail. The greenway trail would interconnect already existing trails in Ohio and several surrounding states. Another possibility is the Lake Erie section of the Great Lakes Trail. In 8 days of riding (9 days total), you’ll cycle the 582 miles around the perimeter of this lake. Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Niagara Falls; and roll through rural Ontario as well as along the Buckeye State shore. If water trips aren’t your thing, don’t despair. Ohio offers other possibilities. The capital city of Columbus alone, for example, has 11 different trails. Surfaces range from asphalt to concrete to gravel. Lots to choose from! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is; and I hope I can provide a bit of inspiration.   Along the way, I got into blogging; presenting my kitchen experiments; and even setting up a store. You can visit my Facebook page here; or check into my Twitter (aka X) page, Cyclo_Pathy. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional. FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL ✍? Facebook Twitter Youtube Surging? October 23, 2024 Rainy Day Ideas October 22, 2024 In versus Out October 21, 2024 Almost! October 20, 2024 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Albania

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Albania This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Albania is another of those countries about which I know nothing, aside from the name. I think it would be interesting to learn more about it. What better way to learn about a country than to go on a cycling tour there? But you’d better get your climbing legs ready! A triple chain ring would be wise, too. For the most part, the terrain of Albania consists of rugged mountains. There are numerous cycling routes in and near the capital city of Tirana. The Easy Ride in Farka Lake looks, to me, both easy and hard. At a mere 19 km/11.8 mi long, the distance itself would pose me no problem. So why do I think it would be hard? Those 278 meters/912 feet of climbing! There aren’t many flat routes available. Bad news for me. But if you’re really out for adventure, you might want to consider Tirane to Istanbul. This route is about 1077 km/669.25 miles long! The early section includes some stiff climbs. Well, I think that’s better than having such climbs at the end of the route, when riders are tired. Get the hardest part over with early! Albania’s climate is Mediterranean. Depending on the season you choose for your tour, you might need some good rain gear. Winters tend to be wet. The country’s average Winter temperature in the lowlands is 45 degrees, which to me is not “mild”. It’s COLD! I’d need to get a good Gore-Tex rain suit! Summers often see temperatures of 90 degrees. Bring out the sunblock and sun sleeves! Oh, and watch your body language. In that Balkan nation, Yes and No are the reverse of their USA counterparts!

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Under the Northern Lights

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Under the Northern Lights This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Go riding under the Northern Lights? Norway makes me think of cold; snow; thermal wear; and the aurora borealis. In these dog days of Summer, such thoughts might help to cool us off! Norway seems to offer a great deal for adventurous cyclists. The country even has its  own big event: The Arctic Race! This Scandinavian land is warmest in late July. If I wanted to see Norway without the bitter cold of Winter, I would have to go then. Otherwise I would need to invest in some good polar sports clothing; and maybe a fat-tire bicycle for riding over the snow. Where shall I start? Perhaps not with Rallarvegen! I’d love to see the waterfalls; and I’ve never had the chance to see a fjord. Steep descents, on the other hand, aren’t my cup of tea. If I were an avid mountain biker I might enjoy it! The big allure of the Rallarvegen tour, for me, is that it includes Bergen. I’d like to go there, and visit Troldhaugen. Mid-July through late September is the best time to tackle Rallarvegen; but be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Also be ready for some rough stretches of road. There are other options, naturally. These national cycling routes offer a great deal of variety.  Some are relatively flat; others are quite rugged. Norway is home to some stunning scenery, as well as plenty of chances for cycling adventure. But roll with a troll? I might want to pass on that! If you want to ride under the Northern Lights, Spring and Autumn are the best times. How marvelous it would be to ride under a starry sky, with the borealis flickering above! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Pomp and Circumstance January 4, 2024 I Bee’d Lucky January 3, 2024 Sunblock Day January 2, 2024 2024! January 1, 2024 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Slovenia

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Slovenia This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Coastal Slovenia, with its Mediterranean climate, is suitable for cycling year-round. Summers are dry; Winters are mild and wet. Elsewhere, Slovenia has varied topography and climate zones. Away from the coast, you’ll find continental or alpine climates. Whatever the climate region, you can choose from among many types of tours: uphill or downhill; flat or hilly; long or short. Spacalova Pot sounds like a nice warm-up; not quite 7.5 miles. There’s a little climbing involved, but the course profile looks like it isn’t very steep. Beautiful Istria? The adjective would attract most anybody; but get your climbing legs ready. This one-day, 72-mile tour means almost 4000 feet of climbs; and one look at the course profile tells me that the grades are far from gentle. MTB enthusiasts might enjoy the Sorgenti del Rio Bianco. This 24.25 mile hilly course tops out at nearly 3000 feet. It sounds like this one is a bit off the beaten path. Great for nature lovers! As usual, be prepared for the weather. Remember those wet winters! Take rain gear with you. An average winter climate that’s at the freezing point is more than “cool” to me; it’s — well — freezing! Be sure to pack cold-weather gear, too. Slovenia sounds like a beautiful place to go for a cycling tour. Although a small country, it has very diverse topography: mountains; flatlands; and coast. There’s sure to be a cycling tour to suit everyone! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Roadie Again! January 5, 2024 Pomp and Circumstance January 4, 2024 I Bee’d Lucky January 3, 2024 Sunblock Day January 2, 2024 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Kosovo

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Kosovo This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Kosovo sounds, to me, like an exotic place; perhaps because I barely know the country’s name. And after reading this, I’m not sure I could withstand a bicycle tour there. A number of routes are rated “expert”. These require very good fitness; and quite a lot of climbing is involved. Luckily there are some routes that are suited to any rider, such as the loop from Kosovska to Mitrovica Sever. Or browse this list to find a tour suited to your ambitions and abilities. As of September 2023, there are 1212 cycling routes available; so there’s likely to be one that’s right for you. Let me see. The Rugova Valley route, among the hilly ones, includes about 3428 feet of climbing. That means means some rather thin air at the top; thin for someone accustomed to sea level, at least. I’d want a hypoxic mask if I were to train for that! Although I didn’t find a note as to grade, the route profile that is provided makes it look quite steep. I’m not sure that even a triple crankset would let me make those grades. I’d be sure to flunk, big time. I think I’ll pass on that; and focus on the flat routes. Gazivod, maybe. Its 63 km means only a bit over 39 miles; a distance that I know I can manage. As always for group rides, I’m concerned about the pace. Would I be able to go fast enough for long enough to hang with the others? Let’s talk a bit about the weather you might expect to encounter. First, the temperatures. July in particular can bring high heat. Be sure to keep properly hydrated; and remember that you aren’t racing up Mont Ventoux! Kosovo gets some 270 days of sunshine per year. Even so, pack some rain gear; you never know. From café culture to gorgeous mountains, this small country has plenty to see and do. ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Sunblock Day January 2, 2024 2024! January 1, 2024 Out with a Bang December 31, 2023 Seven-Up December 30, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Let’s Count ‘Em

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Let’s Count ‘Em! Let’s count ’em, shall we? Minnesota, the Land of 10000 Lakes! Supposedly somebody really did count the lakes in Minnesota; and there are, indeed, ten grand of them. But that’s beside the point. If you want big cycling adventures in the North Star State, you can begin in northern Minnesota. From Lake Itasca, you can follow the Mississippi all the way to its mouth in extreme southeastern Louisiana. I’m fortunate to have a segment of the MRT close at hand. The “levee bike path”, as cyclists around here call it, is wonderful. It’s paved; and that macadam is in much better condition than many a local street. There are a few crossings for vehicular access to small industries on the riverbank; and except for patrol vehicles, motor traffic up there is verboten. The drawback is that, once the sun is well up, there’s no shade. You’re also fully exposed to the wind. Are your ambitions more modest? There’s nothing wrong with that. How about this Timberline tour? Nine days, 421 miles, with daily distances of 50-74 miles. I’d need to train up even for that! I’ve no doubt I can ride 50 miles in one day; but to do that and more every day for over a week would be a bit much at this point. Luckily Minnesota is fairly flat. If there were hills to climb day after day, I’d be knocked out before the first day was over. If I did do the Timberline tour, I hope I would remember about the 10000 lakes, and remind my cycling companions: “Let’s count ’em!” ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Think Ten Times! December 9, 2023 Going Farther Afield December 8, 2023 Mini-Ride! December 7, 2023 I Still Can’t Ride! December 6, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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