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One for Two

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

One for Two I’m getting rather weary of this one for two business. That is, making one hand do the work of two. I haven’t used a bicycle since January 9, the day before my hand surgery. Of course I couldn’t pump up my bikes’ tires after the procedure. For at least four days post-surgery, my arm was swollen; and it remained tender for some time after that. Today I did my best to get some air into those tires before they could go totally flat. That meant some rather difficult one-for-two handwork. I had to brace the pump’s nozzle against my left fist to get it fastened to the air valve; and use my right hand and left forearm to do the pumping. That was quite tiring. At times like this, I become acutely aware of just how much I need my thumbs! As it turned out, I couldn’t get the tires aired to the desired psi; but at least I got fairly close. Now, if only I could ride! Alas, that’s at least four or five weeks in the future. One for two, of course, isn’t only about airing up bicycle tires. Although I can use my left hand better now, I still must avoid stressing it much; and that gets tricky. Buttons are difficult; and so is opening even a pull-top can. I have to send my laundry out; and I have to order groceries online. I think that hand got rather too much activity yesterday; and today seems to be heading towards a repeat. It’s time to think more about making one hand do the work of two!

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Always Be True

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Always Be True? Always be true with the TS-4.2 Truing Stand! This item, from Park Tool, lets you true your bicycle’s wheels yourself. It can accommodate wheels up to 29 inches, even with the tire still on. This includes fat tires! TS-4.2 is professional grade; sturdy; and versatile. It earns a 4.6-star rating from consumers. With this piece of equipment, you can be sure that your wheels are, well, always be true. Many times I wish I could do more towards the maintenance and repair of my own bikes. I often wish I could get into long-distance cycling in a big way; and being able to tend to my bicycles’ wheels would be a major asset! So would knowing how to take care of other repairs. Unfortunately, I barely know how to change a tube; and arthritis in my hands is no help. $479.95

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Viribus Adult E-Trike

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Viribus Adult E-Trike This Viribus Adult E-Trike is a boon to riders needing a boost. Or, its 36V 10Ah lithium battery can be removed; and you can ride on muscle power alone. The roomy rear basket is great for bringing home a load of groceries; or for taking a picnic lunch to the local park. All three wheels have brakes for safe stopping; and the saddle height can be adjusted for different-sized riders. With battery use, the Viribus Adult E-Trike can attain a speed of 15.5 mph; and it has a range of up to 21.7 miles per battery charge. This item is shipped in two separate packages; these may nor arrive at the same time. Product of the USA. 24″ wheels: $895.99; colors: black or white 26″: wheels: $935.99 (black); $895.99 (white)

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Fitness Tracker Smart Watch

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Fitness Tracker Smart Watch The Fitness Tracker Smart Watch is great for many activities! Cycling, of course; but also for running; mountain-climbing; and even yoga. Fitness Tracker Smart Watch has a large, easily read touchscreen; and is compatible with many cell phones. You can keep track of your heart rate; oxygen levels; and more! This tracker can be used by people of most ages. Battery charges fully in two hours; and lasts up to 14 days on standby. Assorted colors available. Made in China. $49.99  

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Dead Slow

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Dead Slow? Am I going dead slow? I’m not equipped with a Chadburn, so I can’t be quite certain. but I’m not getting anywhere at the moment. I found that I can adjust the seat post on a WattBike® if I clamp said post in the crook of my left elbow. Yesterday that seemed too much of a strain; so I decided I’d better leave the WattBikes alone today. The “reach” on the WattBike seems excessive, too; even after I move the saddle forward. I admit that it can be hard to get myself to where I can use a WattBike. It means walking a mile; and that seems like a lot when I’m constantly concerned about the possibility of rain. I’ve got to keep that splint dry for two more days. The wind just picked up; and it’s blowing at 20 mph. There’s also a 20% chance of rain; and I hope it’s either over by 2 pm, or waits until night. I have to go to the dentist this afternoon! It’s 75 degrees! Can you believe it? Even for New Orleans, that’s too warm for January. It’s what folks used to call a “weather breeder”.  There’s a high chance of rain tonight: and T-storms Friday night. On top of weather concerns, my head feels persistently stuffy; and it makes me feel tired. Looks like I might be dead slow for a few days.

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elite arion folding rollers

3 Comments / BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Elite Arion Folding Rollers Elite Arion Folding Rollers let you ride indoors; and take up less space than a trainer. They also offer a different “riding” experience. Rollers demand attention to balance; smooth pedaling; and holding to a narrow line. I tried rollers; but never got really confident on them. Thus I prefer a trainer, despite the nuisance of getting the bicycle hooked into it. In retrospect, I think my problem with rollers was that I was too tentative. Rollers seemed very slick to me, especially with the road bike; and that was hard to deal with. Eventually I sold the rollers; and kept the trainer. At present I can’t use rollers anyway, because my hand is laid up. I wasn’t even sure that my splinted hand would let me climb aboard my road bike while it was set up in the trainer. Fortunately I’m able to use some WattBikes for the time being.  Elite Arion Folding Rollers, for me, would mean setting up in a doorway. I don’t have a sturdy table to help me get my balance before I begin pedaling; but being in that  doorway is rather a tight  fit. I think I’ll skip rollers for now; but I’ll leave the option open. $222.36

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Convalescent

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Convalescent I’m in the convalescent stage now. Day before yesterday I had CMC arthroplasty; and ever since have been learning how to manage with one hand. Luckily my left hand is the one affected; and I’m right-handed. That makes things a little easier; but it’s still tricky. I quickly learned how to get lids off of jars — at least, jars that have been previously opened. Clasp the jar, as near upright as possible, between  my thighs, right above the knees. Then I need only my right hand to twist the lid. I figured out how to shower without getting that splint wet: pull a plastic bag over it; and secure the open end with 3-inch wide painter’s tape. Even so, I hold that hand above my head, and as far out from the shower as possible.  Keeping the surgical site elevated is very hard. I couldn’t tolerate lying on my back all day, just to hold my hand high. It’s also a problem keeping the hand iced; and it needs it. My fingers are still swollen.  Of course I can’t ride in my current state. Being a convalescent is a drag! I’m working to gain access to indoor bikes; and I hope to try one tomorrow. I did consider setting up one of my bicycles in the trainer prior to surgery; but decided that it might well be impossible to climb aboard with my splinted hand. There are also sutures to think about. I hope there’s a way to pump up the tires one-handed! They’ll need it even if I’m not riding. On the other hand, my tires were OK after several weeks of  enforced neglect following Ida. Tonight it’s going to get much cooler; so if I simply didn’t want to ride in the cold, I’ve got a reasonable excuse to stay in!  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 Your Little Foot November 11, 2024 Gray and Warm November 10, 2024 Park Mode November 9, 2024 Woman Is Fickle? November 8, 2024 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Time-Crunched Cyclist

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Time-Crunched Cyclist Time-Crunched Cyclist describes so many of us! What with a full-time job; for some, a second job; a family; and so on, time to ride can easily fall by the wayside. I myself never worried too much about it. If time to ride meant letting housework slide, I just let it slide! I don’t care about everything being spotlessly clean, anyhow. There are more important things in life! But if you happen to be a time-crunched cyclist; and are frustrated by your limited opportunities to train;  this publication helps you get the most out of what riding time that you do have. Elite coach Chris Carmichael shows the way. Am I time-crunched? Not really; not now that I’m a retiree. When I was still working, I went riding at 5:15 or even 5:00 in the morning; because it was the best way to be sure I got to ride.  I’m not into racing; but if I were, I think I would want a copy of this title. Also available in kindle.

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2023

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

2023! It’s 2023! Happy New Year! As always, I can’t believe the new year is here already. Time sure flies; and I wish I could “fly” like that on my bicycle! I went out for a ride this  morning. It was foggy; and there were large patches of debris from firecrackers on the cycling path. It happens every year; and it sure annoys me! I believe fireworks are illegal here; but plenty of folks have them, anyway. 2023 will be a big year for me: I’m going to retire! It will be great to have more time to ride, and to work on this website. But first, I’ve got CMC arthroplasty coming up! I’m not sure how much time I’ll have to take off from the bicycle; but it’s going to be hard not being able to ride. Maybe I’ll be able to “ride” in the trainer. That will give my legs a little action. Lunges will help, too. And I can go for walks; but I’d better keep plastic bags handy in case it rains. My hand will be in a splint for a while; and that splint will have to be kept dry. I’ve been cooking stuff to freeze so I have meals while my hand is laid up; and I stocked up on paper plates and paper bowls. That will minimize one-handed dishwashing. There are two rainy days coming up; and the temperatures have risen to the 70s. Just think, a week ago we were freezing! It’s absolutely crazy. We have a dense fog advisory for tonight, too. Day after tomorrow it’s back to work. What a drag that will be; but I comfort myself with the thought that it’s only for a few days. Then I’ll be retired!

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Out At Last

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Out At Last! I got out at last today! By afternoon the temperature had warmed up to the low 50s. I was tired of being cooped up indoors; and decided to go for a short ride. It was sunny and clear; and almost no wind. I would have liked for it to be 10 degrees warmer; but low 50s is a lot better than barely above freezing! I didn’t try any interval work, nor did I push for  speed; I just rode. For two days I hadn’t even put in any time on the trainer; so it was enough to just be riding. It looks like our Arctic blast is on the way out at last. Some poor folks are still buried in snow; and I hope they get relief soon. We didn’t get a single flake here; when it does get cold enough for snow, it’s usually because a cold front blasted all the clouds away. That’s certainly been the case this time! Now I must think of my 2023 riding plans. Early in the year, I’m having CMC arthroplasty; and following the procedure, I’ll have to be off the bicycle for at least a few weeks. Maybe I can set up the bike in the trainer; but I must discuss that with my surgeon. Once recovered from the surgery, I hope to get in some good mileage. I’ll be retired, so I don’t have to worry about getting to work; and I can start putting in extra distance. Maybe I can even dream of doing another century!

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