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Packing a Punch?

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Packing a Punch? Packing a punch? Sure! Delaware Punch! Why not pack some along to have with lunch while cycle-touring the First State? Check out southern Delaware’s Sussex Cyclists. The landscape is flat; the scenery is great; and the roads are excellent. Bikemap helps you choose from a variety of trail types, from flat to downhill to long tours. The state has a year-round moderate climate; or so the description says. Temperatures that can fall to sub-freezing aren’t my idea of “moderate”. I’d call that downright frigid! I would need some heavy-duty leg warmers; a good base layer; definitely a heavy helmet liner; and more! It’s a feather in any cyclist’s cap — pardon me, I mean helmet — to ride all the way across a state. Delaware offers an event that lets you cross the state twice in one day! Not many of the States can let you do the same. How’s that for packing a punch? 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 © 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 INTERPRETER

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Ozarks

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Ozarks The Ozarks lie, in part, in the state of Arkansas. I’ve heard that the Ozarks aren’t especially high; but that they’re steep. Better get your climbing legs prepared! Maybe a compact — or even super-compact — crankset would be a good idea, too. Arkansas ranks #39 among the States for bicycle friendliness; and there are eight cities that carry the Bicycle Friendly title. It sounds like finding riding companions ought to be fairly easy. The terrain varies from flat to mountainous, so there’s something for everyone. But remember those Ozarks! Arkansas has a moderate climate, with four distinct seasons. Add in the state’s varied terrain, and there’s sure to be a trail suited to you. Is road cycling your thing? The Winslow Death March Loop is not, I would say, for the novice roadie. It’ll really show you the Ozarks: steep climbs, plenty of switchbacks, and speedy downhills. That sounds pretty tough, doesn’t it? If it’s too tame for you, try the Jasper Disaster. This turn-packed route is one of the hardest in the entire state. I can easily imagine it becoming a disaster for me! For folks who want gravel, Pedal the Ridge might be a good choice. This path offers 20- and 50-mile options. Do you want mountain biking? Arkansas has five Epic Rides for MTB fans; just ask the IMBA. Mount Kessler MTB trails are among the state’s most difficult, with rocky singletrack. Upper Buffalo brings you in touch with native plants and wildlife. Boyle Park offers a variety of terrain. And those are only a few of the many cycling trails on offer in The Natural 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.” ABOUT ME © 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 INTERPRETER

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New Mexico

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New Mexico New Mexico, “The Land of Enchantment“, offers opportunities for adventure and touring; both for roadies and mountain bike enthusiasts.  For transporting your bicycle to New Mexico, how about an EVOC Bike Transport Bag? And, of course, choose your trail. For cycling families, the Chaco Culture National Historical Park Loop sounds like a terrific way to begin exploring New Mexico by bicycle: eight miles long; flat; and paved. You’ll have opportunities to park your bicycle and take a stroll through the archaeological sites along the way. If you want a bigger challenge, Sandia Peak Summit might fit the bill. This road climbs some 3000 feet over 15-17 miles! Be sure to take along some kind of jacket; high altitudes can get cold even in mid-Summer. MTB-ers sweltering in the hot, humid conditions of Summer might find the prospect of the Mount Taylor Winter Quadrathlon alluring. Once there, the bike-run-ski-snowshoe race should keep you plenty warm amid all that snow. Keep an eye peeled for wildlife: deer and wild turkey, among others. The South Boundary Trail is physically quite demanding; you’ll need intermediate or higher MTB skills for this one. Take along plenty of water and food; and don’t forget your tools. Stay safe; when on the roads, ride single-file. Watch for traffic. Carry a first-aid kit. Even if you’re riding with a group, depend on yourself. With proper planning and common sense, your bicycle tour of New Mexico can provide plenty of enchantment. 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 © 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 INTERPRETER

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Enophile Heaven?

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Enophile Heaven? 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.” Moldova sounds like enophile heaven. In fact, Moldova is best known for its fine wines. This tour of Chisinau will let you visit the Cricova Underground Wine Cellar. That’s great for wine lovers; but how is Moldova for bicycle touring? With or without wine-tasting? You might want to try a small-group tour of Chisinau, the capital city. Or a whole-day tour of Old Orhei. And, perhaps the ultimate opportunity for cycling enthusiasts who happen to be enophiles as well: would you ever have dreamed that you could RIDE YOUR BIKE through a wine cellar? Although a poor nation, Moldova has much to offer visitors. And, once again, it’s enophile heaven. 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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Dumka?

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Dumka? 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.” The dumka is what I’m apt to think of first when Ukraine is mentioned, thanks to Dvorak. Or, I think of pysanky. Those eggs are works of art! Perhaps they inspired Fabergé? Did you ever consider a bicycle tour through Ukraine? Here is one cyclist’s account of a solo tour through Ukraine and Romania: the good times and the tough moments. I think it’s wise to include the not-so-fun aspects of any bicycle tour; there are bound to be some difficulties! Much of Ukraine is steppe; but some parts are mountainous. Bring on the mountain bike!  Crimea is one of the most popular areas for foreign bicycle tourists visiting Ukraine. There are abundant trails for mountain-biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. Maybe a two-wheeled tour of Kiev? This the capital city of Ukraine offers a number of cycling opportunities. Bike rentals are available, too. Here we go again: some do’s and thou-shalt-nots of Ukrainian etiquette. In some cultures it seems to be expected that you’ll imbibe. How do you handle that if you can’t tolerate alcohol? I’d rather stick to the cycling paths; and maybe learn to dance the dumka.

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Mountain State

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Mountain State The Mountain State of West Virginia is home to a number of  Rails-to-Trails routes. It seems rather a contradiction to have nearly-flat Rails-to-Trails paths in the MOUNTAIN State, doesn’t it? Greenbrier River Trail follows the river of its name, passing through several state parks and state forests. The small towns along the way offer opportunities to stop for a rest and refueling. North Bend Rail Trail is for aficionados of bridges and tunnels. Its 72 miles include 13 tunnels and 36 bridges! You’ll find services about every 10 miles. The Caperton Trail is more urban. You’ll be near storefronts, restaurants, and city parks. If you want your legs to get a real workout, try the Deckers Creek Trail. Uphill from Morgantown, past hardwood forests. Follow the Allegheny Highlands Trail for some terrific views. Ride over asphalt, gravel, and dirt. You might want a mountain bike for this trail! The capital city of Charleston is also one of the USA’s cycling capitals. For an intense ride, try the Kenna Loop. Its rolling hills will give you almost 2000 feet of climbing. My legs ache just thinking about it! The out-and-back Paint Creek Route includes its share of climbing, too. Not many refueling opportunities are available along this route. Be sure you don’t forget that Camel-Bak, and bring adequate food. Aside from cycling, the Mountain State offers many interesting places to visit. You can find opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and much more. Never a dull moment, right? 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 © 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 INTERPRETER

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On the Adriatic

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On the Adriatic 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.” Planning a ride on the Adriatic? How about Croatia? A pedal-powered tour along the coast of Dalmatia  offers beautiful views of the sea. There are over 200 sunny days per year. Enjoy fresh seafood; combine bicycling with island-hopping; or explore Dubrovnik. Incidentally, the Dalmatian city of Split is the birthplace of the composer Franz von Suppé. Beautiful Galatea, anyone? For mountain lovers, there are cycling tours in the Dinaric Alps; these, however, require expert fitness level. This mountain range rises to almost 9000 feet in some places, and is one of the most rugged ranges in Europe. If I were crazy enough to try riding there, I might want to get myself an ebike! I can’t say how easy it would be to find English speakers in Croatia. Apparently your chances depend on which region of the country you visit. On top of that, could you find someone familiar with cycling lingo? If your budget is tight; or if you simply enjoy the challenge of penny-pinching, here are some ideas you could try. Go during the off-season; choose accommodations wisely, etcetera. On the whole, Croatia is safe to visit. Try the cuisine. Most important of all, have a good time while pedaling on the Adriatic.

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Route 66

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Route 66 🛣️ Cycling Route 66 sounds like a chance to visit an earlier era. Explore the small towns along the way; enjoy great food; visit the many historical sites. Route 66, in fact, has become an icon. It plays a major role in Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath. It even comes into the entertainment scene. Thinking of the Steinbeck novel, of course, makes me think of Oklahoma. There’s that famous song; but there are cycling trails, too, for roadies and MTB enthusiasts alike. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area is for you if steep hills with hairpin turns are up your alley. For a multi-purpose trail suited to all levels of ability, try out the Lake Hefner Trail. This one is heavily trafficked; so use caution. Enjoy seeing wildflowers along the way. If you happen to be an angler, perhaps you’d like to bring along the fishing pole. For urban exploration, there’s the Museum commemorating the tragic 1995 bombing in Oklahoma City. Tulsa offers many cycling routes. The name Tall Chief Cove catches my eye thanks to my interest in ballet; and the ballerina Maria Tallchief. If I were to go on a bicycle tour in the Sooner State, I’d rather go across open country. I love to see wide-open spaces. I’d better choose my tour time carefully; Oklahoma is part of the notorious Tornado Alley. I would also need to pay attention to the precise route.  Oklahoma is said to be the windiest state of all. Some parts of the state are mountainous! And, unfortunately, passing through the flat portions might mean plenty of oil wells. PHEW! But, I might spot a scissor-tailed flycatcher, and there would be other birds as well. Or bison. Or, maybe I could just, well, be a tourist and stick to Route 66. 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 © 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 INTERPRETER

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Let’s Go Hellenic

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Let’s Go Hellenic 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.” Let’s go Hellenic, and take a bicycle tour around Greece! If you enjoy island-hopping, try out Kos. It’s reputed to be more bicycle-friendly than most parts of Greece. Flatland-lover? How about Thessaly?  Or head to Thrace for some mountain biking. Like touring anywhere, going Hellenic can be either costly or done on a budget. See here for tips. Is Greece safe? As of this writing, travelers to Greece are advised to follow usual safety precautions. Naturally there are places and situations that should be avoided. If you’re a devotee of the Mediterranean diet, you’re in luck while visiting Greece. This way of eating has been around since the 1980s, and was inspired by the traditonal cuisines of Italy and Greece. Lots of legumes, veggies, non-white pasta, olive oil, fish, and grains. I’ll go with lentils and  brown rice, with a bit of cheese on top. The climate of the country is cold and wet during Winter; and hot and dry during the Summer. If you’re on the eastern coast of Greece during July and August, watch out for the maltemi! It can blow at 11-33 mph, which can mean a very tough headwind. For  mythology lovers, how about a tour through Arcadia? Listen closely, and you may hear Pan playing his pipes. Or even just the birds singing. To quote Ogden Nash, “That’s what the shepherds listened to in Arcadia/Before somebody invented the radia.”   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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Maylasia

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Malaysia 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.” Maylasia for some reason makes me think of steaming jungles. Indeed, the nation’s climate is humid, with average annual rainfall of 98 inches. That makes New Orleans seem arid by comparison! Bicycle touring there sounds like a sweaty business! But Malaysia’s geography is actually quite diverse. There are mountains and coastal plains. Cycling routes are quite diverse, too. Here is an account of a tour of the Cameron Highlands. I like the riders’ laid-back approach; just having a good time riding. It sounds like a beautiful route, and they had fun meeting local people and enjoying local food. There are other bicycle tours in Maylasia. Visit some of the islands. See Buddhist temples, or ride through a rainforest reserve. What about the customs of this country? It would be hard to remember the should’s and should nots that are so different from one’s own. Never point using your forefinger. That’s something that we in the USA do all the time, without thinking about it. Don’t point your feet towards people?  Does that mean you should stand with your feet turned out, as in ballet? Not discussing politics when in abroad is plain common sense. Getting back to the humid climate, be sure you keep hydrated. Bring along a Camel-Bak for water, and bottles for electrolyte drink. Be sure you have the right bike; are you going for road riding or mountain biking? Whichever it is, enjoy the ride in this diverse country. 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 Relearning December 19, 2023 I Traverse Afar? December 18, 2023 I Envy Time December 17, 2023 Holiday Food December 16, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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