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Reprieve

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Reprieve We’re finally getting a reprieve from the rain. Today there was a brief drizzle about midday; but that was it. The huge puddles of water in nearby streets dried up! Of course the ground is still damp; but at least I can see the ground when I must ride through those places. Today I rode to the salvage store. I found more things to use for ride food; and a large canister of rolled oats. Can you believe I bought only ONE can of food? It’s some kind of chicken and wild rice soup. Then I got rid of three cans by combining one can of turkey chili; a can of pinto beans; and an 8-oz can of tomato sauce. I added chopped onions; and that was it. Quick and easy; and it tastes good, too! It looks like I’ll  have good weather for tomorrow’s long ride, although it will be hot. A reprieve from the heat would be nice! I already put Nuun in the fridge to chill; and I mixed my recovery drink. I’m thinking of doing 40 miles or so. I’ve got my Love to Ride goal in mind! I’m aware of a mental shift since I hit 3500 miles a few days ago. Prior to that, I was watching the miles add up. Now my focus is on watching the remaining miles melt away. Except for that system off the Texas coast, the tropics are still quiet. It’s great to get a reprieve from hurricanes; especially after last year’s hyperactive season. Long may it last!  

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Barn Door

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Barn Door I’m smelling the barn door, as the saying goes. My Love to Ride mileage goal for 2022 is 5000 miles by December 30. Today I rolled up to 3500 miles; so barring a major catastrophe, I should be able to finish quite easily! You know how you begin to feel excited when you see that you’re nearing a goal? You get that “downhill all the way” feeling; and the urge to complete your project as quickly as possible. That’s how I feel now. But I know I can’t manage 1500 miles in a few weeks; and I have four months to do it. Plus a few days! The weather this week hasn’t helped. Yesterday morning I rode in a heavy downpour. The threat of more rain prompted me to keep it short today; and the clouds meant I couldn’t see the full moon! So much rain means I have to ride through big pools of water. Road conditions are apt to be wet and muddy. The hybrid has fenders; so I’ve used the hybrid for the last two morning rides. I sure miss riding the road bike! Maddening though all this rain is, we can breathe a sigh of relief that the tropics continue to be quiet. It’s a stark contrast to last year, when hurricanes cropped up one after another. A hurricane might mean major disruption to my cycling; and possibly derail my mileage goal! Some poor folks are still reeling from the effect of last year’s storms; so we don’t need any more of them! I’m thinking about this weekend’s riding; smelling the barn door again! It looks like rain chances Saturday are mostly for afternoon; but for Sunday it’s a flip of the coin. Saturday, of course, I want to head for the salvage store; and I want to do a long ride Sunday. Rain chances that day are 50-50; so who knows which way it will go. If it does rain, I just hope I’ll be back at the barn when it starts.

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Rain Gear

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Rain Gear 🌧️ Accessories Jackets Jerseys Keep Cool Reflective Gear Shoes Shorts Home Hamburger Toggle Menu Which cog is my rain gear? I know. Bad joke. But I sure needed rain gear this morning! I decided to ride the hybrid  because of wet, muddy conditions. We had heavy rain yesterday; and things take quite a while to dry out. When I went outside, it was sprinkling a little; so I put on the poncho. I didn’t pull the hood over my head, because it makes me hotter; but I wanted to be able to get that hood on quickly if it really began to rain. I headed for the park; and sure enough, before I could get there, I needed to stop and put the hood on. In a few minutes it was raining heavily. The biking/walking path in the park is paved; and I’m glad it is. Otherwise it would have been an absolute bog. As it was, there were huge pools of water everywhere; and my glasses were so wet, I could hardly see where I was going. Between the visibility problems and the rain, I made it a short ride. I was thankful that there wasn’t any lightning; and I’m glad it was a bit cooler than usual. It gets hot under plastic! The trouble with a poncho is that it “rides” up; and that means I get wetter. Ponchos are also prone to flapping; and I wear my reflective vest over the poncho to keep it under better control. On the other hand, a poncho is pretty well ventilated. I suspect that a rain suit is too good at keeping heat in; and if the weather is warm, wouldn’t I get drenched with sweat? I guess the rain suit is better for cold weather; but I won’t get to try it until October or November – maybe not until December! All the same, I know Fall is coming. Yesterday morning it was pretty clear when I rode; and I spotted Orion in the sky. That’s a dead giveaway. Lingito Rain Ponchos Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare KastKing HydroSense Rain Suit Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare iCreek Rain Suit Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Bikewa Men’s Rain Jacket Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Baleaf Women’s Rain Jacket Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Ponchos Family Pack Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare TIDEWE Rain Suit Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Heavy Duty Rain Suit Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Jileon Ankle-High Rain Boots Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare Jileon Rain Boots Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare CXWXC Cycling Shoe Covers Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare ROCKBROS Cycling Shoe Covers Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare HLKZONE Raincoat Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare AYAMAYA Bike Helmet Cover Rated 0 out of 5 View in Amazon Compare 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 No Layout Found TRANSLATOR

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Israel

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Israel Did you ever think about a bicycle ride through Israel? It seems that the country is a good place for cycling. The Negev includes trails both for experienced riders; and for families who want to ride together. There’s some great scenery along the way, too! Cycling is popular in the city of Tel Aviv; and there are many routes in various parts of the country. Helmets are required by law; and be sure you carry an ample supply of water. Spring and Fall are the best times to visit Israel. Temperatures during the Summer can rise to 50 C (122 F); and I, for one, think that’s much too hot! As with any trip abroad, advance planning is important. I’m rather surprised to see that, in Israel — or at any rate, in Tel Aviv — cyclists must ride on the sidewalk! But I’m not at all surprised that one should avoid discussing politics and religion. Avoid the Gaza Strip. Aside from this conflicted area, the county in general is fairly safe. You can travel by train between major cities; but it sounds like it’s worthwhile to learn a few phrases in Hebrew! A good bus system lets you travel between smaller cities; and to more out-of-the-way locations.  For the religiously inclined, Israel had much to offer: the holy sites in Jerusalem; and places that Jesus would have known. The Dead Sea sounds like fun — float with no effort —  but I don’t think I want to have its waters splash me in the eyes. Many years ago, we visited Utah’s Great Salt Lake. Of course we went “swimming”; and if that water got into my eyes, it sure burned!     

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Stabilizer Wheel Kit

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Stabilizer Wheel Kit This Stabilizer Wheel Kit can be a great help to riders who have balance issues; but who don’t want an adult trike. A physical impairment doesn’t have to mean missing the joys of cycling! This set-up had an advantage over an adult trike: it can fit through most doorways. The adult trike that I had could not; and I had to leave the poor thing outdoors. The Stabilizer Wheel Kit is easy to install; however, installation by a qualified dealer is recommended. This stabilizer is strong; and fits most bikes with 24″-27″/61cm-68.6 cm tires. I never thought of using one of these while I was getting the hang of two wheels. To me, “training wheels” would have meant a longer learning curve! But if I need balance assistance later in life, this is something to keep in mind. There are some possible drawbacks, though. It looks to me as if this stabilizer leaves no space for panniers; and that’s bad news for me. I need those “saddle bags” when  it’s time to bring home the groceries. I’m also not sure that  the tongue of a trailer can fit around the stabilizer. I need that trailer when it’ s big-load time! Adding this stabilizer to a bike that you already have might be more cost-effective than buying a trike. In these days of inflation, that’s definitely worth considering! 

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Shortchanged

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Shortchanged It’s easy to let some things get shortchanged. In my eagerness to work towards my Love to Ride mileage goal, I too often neglect cooking. Heavy work on this web site hasn’t helped! Sunday is normally long-ride day; but today I decided to skip it and head for the supermarket. The salvage store had little in the way of produce yesterday; and I needed bananas; onions; and other items. When I go out for a 40-mile ride, I often don’t get much else done when I get back home. It’s usually late morning by then; and of course I’m tired. I don’t feel like rushing around the kitchen. Cooking projects can be time-consuming, too; and today I really needed to take the time to cook! My project this morning was Pink North; a new Hoppin’ John variation. I used canned beans and canned tomatoes for it; so that’s three fewer cans taking up space. I also concocted a garbage soup; and that got rid of three more cans. I’ve got to be sure I keep a supply of canned goods in case a hurricane heads our way; but I have so much that I don’t think I’ll run out soon. Cycling is a great way to develop and maintain fitness; but it’s only part of fitness. Proper nutrition is a big part of the picture; and I’ve let nutrition get badly shortchanged for the last five months or so. I’m due to have my A1c levels checked next month; and I fear the results will not be good! I’ve been trying to get back into proper meal planning; but it’s not easy! And it’s already Sunday evening; time to get ready for another work week. That means less time for meal planning!

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Improvisation

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, Uncategorized /

Improvisation Improvisation isn’t restricted to music. Most of us do it daily; and it’s a handy skill during a bicycle tour. Sometimes something breaks; and there’s no way to replace/fix it right away. Yet the tour must go on!  Then it’s time to get inventive. Once my hybrid’s kick stand gave way while I had the bike parked at work. The stand was bent; and when I put it in the “up” position, it dangled in a manner that meant it was in the way. I had to secure it somehow. Fortunately I had my reflective ankle bands with me. I used one to fasten the kickstand to the chain stay until I could get to the bike shop.  That’s only a very small example. Some riders have to find a way to rig up a temporary derailer; or deal with brake pads that start rubbing. A good way to minimize the risks for such problems is a good tune-up before the tour. It isn’t always the bicycles that go wrong. Camping equipment can cause problems. For instance, what do you do if your tent starts to leak? And, heaven forbid, did you forget an important item? That can make for a frustrating trip, no doubt. I resorted to improvisation at the salvage store this morning. I usually bring along some sort of cooler; and today I forgot it. What to do? I decided to get a bag of frozen corn; and I put the heat-vulnerable items in a bag with it. It worked pretty well. The salami stayed cool; and the chocolate-y things didn’t melt. I hope I don’t need to resort to improvisation tomorrow. It won’t be easy when I’m twenty miles from home!    

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Cyclist’s Palsy

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Cyclist’s Palsy Do I have cyclist’s palsy? My doctor calls it cubital tunnel syndrome; but the two sound like the same thing. Both involve numbness/tingling in the pinky and ring finger; and I’ve got it in both hands. For some months, I’ve noticed that my right wrist tends to hyperextend as I ride the road bike; and I suppose that might be a factor.  I’m working to keep that wrist in a more neutral position.  But I’ve got this condition in both hands! Too much time spent on keyboards, maybe? For a long time, I’ve noticed that my hands tend to be clumsy when I try to type; and some of my fingers feel weak. The right ring finger is especially bothersome. It has a way of horning in and typing an “L” when I don’t intend it! My hands in general tend to be clumsy. I often fumble and drop things; and that bone spur in my left thumb doesn’t help! I need to find a way to keep my elbows straighter while I’m sleeping. So far, I haven’t found a cheap way to do it. Maybe I could develop a fabric sleeve that can hold a chunk of padding; but I’m too busy with other things. So you see, cyclist’s palsy isn’t a bit fun. I’m worried that my hands might not hold out for the next five months, until I reach my planned retirement. I’m in no hurry for surgical intervention; especially as I’d need two procedures. Each one would mean time off the bike; and I don’t want to derail my 2022 Love to Ride mileage goal!

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QuietKat 2019 Apex

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

QuietKat 2019 The QuietKat 2019 Apex ebike certainly deserves mention. A certain social-media platform is full of messages about ebikes; and who knows? I might need the electrical assist myself some day. QuietKat 2019 Apex is designed for tough, back-country riding. That sounds almost like a mountain bike! Those wide (4.5 inches) tires might be great for muddy conditions; but how are they for road riding? Now and then I see a rider using fat tires on a paved bike path; so I suppose they’d do. Does the bike’s weight (75 lbs) make it too hard to pedal without the electrical assistance? My adult trike weighed a good bit less than that; and pedaling that rig took considerable effort. I have to admit that the “cat” is expensive. This bike’s price tag is enough to put me off; and how much does a replacement battery cost? That’s something to consider before purchasing any ebike. Recently I saw a news article about a family who had bought an electric car; and they learned that replacing the battery would cost almost as much as the car itself had! I hope that’s not the case for an ebike battery. It sounds like the battery needs some special care, which isn’t surprising. I wonder how well one would fare in this humid, salt-hazy climate. And storing it in a cool place is impossible during the Summer as long as I’m in my current residence. I’d be nervous about charging up that battery. Remember those things called Hoverboards? There were cases of fires that were caused by a charging Hoverboard; but maybe there are now built-in features to prevent such disasters.

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Sturmey Archer Hub

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Sturmey Archer Hub This saved my first century! The Sturmey Archer Hub came to my rescue when I rode my first century. My tricycle was a single-speed when I bought it; and I didn’t add the three-speed hub until about a month before the big ride. For several months, I had worked towards century day. I got tired of fighting the wind during long rides; and it finally dawned on me that I needed some kind of assistance. Part of me resisted (pride); but the other part said, come on — you need this! Let’s be practical! I’m sure I couldn’t have made it through those 100 miles without the Sturmey Archer. The wind was nasty that day; and seemed to be against me most of the time. With the hub, I could spin in a lower gear when I got tired of fighting the wind; and the rare times when I had a tailwind, the high gear actually let me get up some speed. I look back now, and wonder how I ever managed that ride. That trike probably weighed around 50-55 pounds; and its width meant it put up a lot of wind resistance. I’ve been spoiled by the much-lighter road bike; and I think I’ve gotten lazy, too. I don’t have to work as hard to ride 10-12 mph; and so I don’t! If your adult trike is a one-speed, the Sturmey Archer Hub is worth considering if you do a lot of riding. As I said, it saved the day when I did my first century. The low gear is handy for both headwinds and inclines. On one ride (not the century), when I got a stiff tailwind, I was blasting along at 15 mph! That hub was worth it.

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