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Austria

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Austria Austria makes me think of mountains. Of the Ischler. And of composers such as Franz Schubert and Johann Strauss II. Cycling through Austria? While we’re talking about lil’ ol’ “Johnny Strauss, Jr.”, how about pedaling along the Danube? This cycling path will take you from the river’s source to the Black Sea. You’ll cross half of Europe. Cyclists of all abilities use this route; and it’s family-friendly as well. Guided tours are available; but you can design your own trip, too. It would save you some money, and you can arrange your own schedule. That’s very handy if you don’t want your bicycle trip to turn into “If It’s Tuesday“. Now for a little detour. Design-my-own-tour is what I did when I was able to take a two-week trip to Austria, way back in 1990. I decided when to go; worked out my itinerary using travel literature; and arranged lodgings and plane tickets with the assistance of a travel agent. I’m familiar enough with German that language gave me little trouble while enjoying Vienna; Salzburg; and Innsbruck. I had a great time! And when I got back home, for a while I had a German accent! We had a good laugh about it when I returned to work. End of detour. Back to the Danube cycling path. You can rent a bicycle locally, if you don’t want the expense of transporting your own. Be sure your panniers are waterproof, and take some rain gear. A handlebar bag is a good idea; you’ll probably want to keep your camera handy. From the Black Forest to the Black Sea, there’s sure to be a lot to see and do along the Danube. 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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Good Break

5 Comments / BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Good Break Getting a good break will be a nice change, won’t it? Especially if that good break is from a piñata that’s full of all the “goodies” ( e.g. spare tubes) we need for cycling South of the Border! A visit to the capital, Mexico City, might sound tempting. It seems that this city has improved for cyclists in recent years. Even so, I’m not crazy about the noise and exhaust of cars, buses, etc. What about exploring Mexico by bicycle? It’s easy for me to think of that as meaning rutted, rough, dirt roads; the kind of surface that makes me wish I were riding a dualie. Actually, main roads are likely to be in pretty good condition. That’s certainly a good break! Travel Age West offers many options. There are “no frills” tours along the coast of the Pacific, and in the Yucatan peninsula. Or explore one of the southern Mexico states, such as Chiapas. There are also tours of large cities. Getting back to “no frills”, exactly what does that mean? Panniers crammed with ride food; and no SAG wagon? As with any country, there are certain areas to be avoided if possible. In Mexico, a lot of this is along the border with the USA; plus the states of Michoacan and Guerrero. Much of the crime has to do with drug-running. Sure, stay away from those spots. You don’t want to get caught in the cross-fire if trouble breaks out. Stay safe, and Que tengas un buen paseo! 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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Nigeria

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Nigeria In Lagos in Nigeria, cycling is, alas, marginalized. But that doesn’t mean that the country is without good cycling routes. First Route to Work is a good one as an introduction to MTB riding. At just under 5 miles long, and little climbing, you can take it easy. For a flat route, the Adeshina Street 17 is another short one; just under 2.5 miles; and almost totally flat. I’d appreciate the flatness; but I like longer miles than that! If you’re up to a long road bike tour, LIL Audax offers 119 miles, with nearly 1300 feet in considerable climbing. Sounds pretty tough to me, even though the route is paved! Nigeria’s climate  has three distinct zones. The southern part of the country gets more rain than the northern part; and the average year-round temperature is about 80 degrees.  I guess a bicycle trip there would be much like a ride at home in one way: keep both poncho and sunblock handy! 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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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

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

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

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

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? 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. 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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Dumka?

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Dumka? 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. All of the above, supposing that the war doesn’t make even getting into Ukraine impossible. 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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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 Planning a ride on the Adriatic? How about Croatia? A pedal-powered tour (with a bit of assist) 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. 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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