equipment Archives - Page 2 of 26

Feeling the Heat

Feeling the Heat? ♨️ Are you feeling the heat? I’m not sure whether I am, or not. It looks like, technically, the dog days are behind us; but it’s still plenty hot. Today we had another heat advisory, too. It went into effect at 11:00 am; and I was home before then. In fact, after riding a mere five miles, I was suddenly profoundly tired! I’m sure it wasn’t the bonk; I ate before I rode. I had been hydrating, including electrolyte drink. I brought along a snack (although not this one) in case I needed it; and I ate half of it, along with a GU. But still, it took 20-25 minutes of riding at a snail’s pace before I started to feel a little better. A home COVID/flu test showed negative results; and my blood pressure isn’t low. So what’s up? Something to do with a new prescription I began taking last week? Or am I feeling the heat? I hope this passes off soon, whatever it is. I’m thinking of trying out new road bikes soon. Unfortunately this will get quite expensive; and I’m not made of money! Made of Money? 💰 At times I almost wish I were made of money. Big expenses seem to have a way of hitting me two or three at a time. In addition to bike-shopping, I’m facing probable oral surgery. That won’t be cheap, either! That means feeling the heat in a different kind of way: the heat of paying several large bills in rapid succession. I’ll manage; but I won’t enjoy it. The weather will continue to make us feel the heat for some weeks; the first cold front often doesn’t arrive until sometime in October. I’ve got to keep that cool rag 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 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 ✍🏻 Feeling the Heat August 20, 2025 Weakening August 18, 2025 On Guard August 16, 2025 More Minutiae August 15, 2025 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Handwriting

BACK ISSUES, equipment / CAL

Handwriting 𝒜 𝔅 ℂ Old and Tired? I’m not one who should talk about handwriting. My penmanship has never been anything to boast about. But I’ve got to face it: the handwriting is on the wall. My road bike’s days are numbered. This was bound to come eventually; but it seems so soon! Unfortunately, it’s become difficult or impossible to get parts for my bike. I ordered a replacement large ring for it months ago; and the bike shop hasn’t been able to find one. That gear will inevitably become so worn that it’s useless — and then what? Despite what the handwriting says, I hope my bike will hold out long enough for me to choose a new one. I’ve begun searching, so I won’t wind up grabbing whatever bicycle is there. Searching 🔎 Searching for a new bicycle involves many considerations. As my bike shop says, there’s the question of availability. What all is out there? What frame material do I want? I thought, carbon fiber or aluminum. The bike shop recommends the former. They say that aluminum frames don’t absorb bumps as well; and rough surfaces abound in my area. I don’t think that steel is a wise choice for a humid, salt-hazy climate; and titanium is expensive, which puts it out of the running. I don’t need to see that in handwriting! Will I be able to find a bicycle in the frame size I need? That can be a problem for smaller-than-average people; but it’s the most important factor in bike choice. If the bike doesn’t fit you, you could be in for a lot of problems. Colorway, as they call a bike’s color scheme, is secondary. It would be great to have a bike that’s sky-blue; but other factors matter much more. Other Factors ⛭ Other factors in bike choice are bicycle weight; and gearing. I must be searching for those things, too. The bike shop says, I’m not likely to find a recreational-style road bike that weighs much less than the bike I have. That’s somewhat dismaying; after RAGBRAI, I thought it would be nice to have a road bike that weighs around 15-17 pounds; not 22 pounds. But if I can’t get a lighter bike, can I get one with lower gearing? That would help with hills; sometimes RAGBRAI presents riders with 15% grades! I thought I might get a bike with a triple crankset; but the shop says they don’t make road bikes with a triple any more. Also, I want to transfer the saddle and pedals from the old bike to the new one. When I got my current road bike, it came with a flat, very hard saddle; and it did not feel good at all! I’ve got to go do some more research; including, of course, prices. 🤑 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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Readjusting

BACK ISSUES, equipment / CAL

Readjusting 🔧 Now that RAGBRAI 2025 is past, I’m readjusting to regular life. I must admit that it’s a relief to not have to cram a lot of stuff into two 40-liter duffle bags each morning. Every day, my things seemed to need more and more space; and when I practice-packed at home before heading to Iowa, I made the major error of forgetting to allow room for my sneakers! I ended up having to squeeze my sleeping pad inside the bag’s carrying straps. I’m quickly readjusting to having room to move when I take a shower. What a luxury that is! The Pork Belly showers were nice and clean; but small. That was a necessity, though. The shower truck had to go from one overnight town to the next; and the truck could be only so big. Naturally RAGBRAI had some downs; but already I’m thinking of next time! Next Time ⏱️ Next time I do RAGBRAI, I’ll be more careful to ask for tent service when I apply for Pork Belly. This year, I somehow missed it; and was put on a waiting list. I had some anxious days before I got a tent; and I was glad I didn’t have to haul one with me. There wasn’t room for a tent in my bags, anyhow. For packing, I’ll get a sixty-liter duffle bag to replace one of the bags I have; the 40-liter size just wasn’t big enough, even with two of them. There are some items that I think I can leave at home next time, too. Since the showers are cleaned regularly, I didn’t actually use flip-flops. I can leave them home and save a bit of space in my bag. Maybe I’ll pack my little battery-operated alarm clock next time. By mid-week, I was having trouble with my cell phone running out of charge. I’m not sure whether the problem was the phone itself; or the charging blocks. The charging trailer cubbies each have two standard household outlets; and I can bring the little item-specific charging blocks I use at home. And I’m very easily readjusting to being able to leave stuff all over the place. I always was a slob! 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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Fitbit Kids

BACK ISSUES, equipment / CAL

Fitbit Kids 🧒🏽 👦 Fitbit Kids is an Android-operated smartwatch that allows messaging; tracking; and activity-based games. Its 16+ hours of battery life let you keep in touch all day. Resistant to water; bumps; and scratches. Has 32 GB memory. Available in Mild Strange Arcade (shown); or Spicy – Moovin. Speaking of kids, the Fitbit Kids would be great for the child who loves to go for long rides; especially as they get old enough to go solo. 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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Mountain Ride?

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment / CAL

Mountain Ride? 🚵🏽 Planning a mountain ride? Beace Cycling Gloves are full-fingered; yet allow you to answer your phone or use a touch screen while wearing them. Non-skid palm pads help absorb vibrations, resulting in less hand numbness. Made of silicone and Spandex. Sizes Small through X-Large; available in Blue (shown); Rose Red; Black; Purple; Red; and Green. While you’re up there at high altitude, don’t forget electrolytes and water. A Camel-Bak MULE MTB Pack holds up t0 three liters of water; and has a secure pocket to hold your phone. Available in Black (shown); and Kelp/Black. 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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Feeling Tentative?

BACK ISSUES, equipment, Outdoors / CAL

Feeling Tentative? 🏕️ Are you feeling tentative about sleeping out in the open? A Night Cat Pop-Up Tent provides waterproof shelter for one person. The Night Cat weighs less than 3.5 pounds, so it’s great for backpacking. For bicycle touring, too! This tent is easy to set up/take down; and has room enough for you and your stuff. If you’ve feeling adventurous in the culinary way, The New Camp Cookbook presents recipes for various meals and snacks; as well as meal planning advice, and even how to build a fire! 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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Color Your Ride

BACK ISSUES, equipment / CAL

Color Your Ride 🌈 If you want to color your ride, the Colorbasket for Adults adds a touch of brightness. This woven polypropylene basket attaches to your handlebars with adjustable leather straps; and is water resistant. Unlike wood, it won’t splinter. Colorbasket for Adults is also suitable for use with walkers and wheelchairs. Size: L 14. 5″ x W 10. 75″x H 9. 75″; can hold up to 10 pounds. Available in White/Green (shown); White/Pink; Black/Red; and Pink. Another way to color your ride is with the Weimostar Men’s Cycling Jersey, in this multi-colored diamond version. The Weimostar Men’s Cycling Jersey is 100% polyester; machine washable; and has a zip closure. Silicone grip around the hem helps keep jersey from sliding upwards as you ride. Available in many other colors/patterns, too! 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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LMNT Sampler

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment, Food / CAL

LMNT Sampler 🧂 LMNT Sampler lets you try a variety of LMNT (pronounced “element”) flavors. Each stick of powder supplies 1000 mg of sodium; plus magnesium and potassium. Just mix contents of one packet with 16-32 ounces of liquid. LMNT Sampler contains one stick each of eight flavors. I’ve tried them with the idea that this product might be a good choice if this year’s RAGBRAI turns out to be as hot as the 2023 event. I suppose I’d need to use the stuff regularly for a few weeks before I can be sure it works better than, say, Biosteel. I can’t say I’m crazy about the taste of this product. I love salt; but somehow salty electrolyte drinks don’t appeal to me. But LMNT is sugar-free; and contains no gluten or fillers. It isn’t, of course, recommended to folks who have hypertension; but supposedly many people actually need more salt. So fill up your bottle with your choice of LMNT, and take off! Beating the Heat ♨️ Beating the heat might be the name of the game during RAGBRAI; and a South Sport Cool Rag sure will help! I’ve been doing without it this past week, because I washed it; and wanted it to get thoroughly dry before packing it into a duffle bag. If it’s coo in the morning, I can stuff the cool rag into a Camel-Bak pocket until I need it. I’m constantly mullig over what all I need to keep handy; the big ride begins day after tomorrow! 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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Packing Woes

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment / CAL

Packing Woes 🛄 Packing woes are only too familiar to those of us who travel; whether with a bicycle or not. What do I need to take? What can I do without? Can an item serve more than one purpose? Both of my duffle bags for RAGBRAI are stuffed. In fact, I might do well to review their contents, and see whether I can take out one or two things. It’s amazing how much space your day-to-day items, such as bath needs, take up! I’m glad I’m not going to be using a touring bike, and carrying all my stuff. The weight adds up fast; and when I’m ready to roll, I’d rather not be weighed down. Ready to Roll 🚲 I’m about ready to roll for RAGBRAI; but first I’ve got to fly. I hope weather conditions don’t ruin my travel plans! So far it doesn’t look like that tropical system in the Gulf will give us much; and I sure hope it stays that way! I’ve been tapering my cycling mileage. Don’t get to RAGBRAI tired, they say! But I don’t want to get there out of condition, either! The forecast for tomorrow says, rain and T-storms. I might not get to ride, so I’ve been riding every day so far this week. Thank goodness I have today and tomorrow to get ready to roll: easing my packing woes; checking my reservations, etcetera. 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 Packing Woes July 16, 2025 Team Up July 15, 2025 Always Electrolytes! July 14, 2025 Final Week July 13, 2025 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Humpty-Back?

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment, Training / CAL

Humpty-Back? 🐪 Wearing a Camel-Bak makes me feel like a humpty-back, as the song says. But being a humpty-back is a good way to bring along enough water for several hours of riding. For me, that’s a necessity. I’d need to ride out of my way to get water if I weren’t carrying it; and I’m not keen on spending money for water if I can bring it from home. Using the Camel-Bak also means I can spare a bottle for electrolyte drink. It’s surprising how much I need that stuff, too. This morning I found myself wishing I had some Propel (or other electrolyte drink); and I wasn’t riding hard; and I was in the park (where it was actually pretty shady); and I rode for barely over an hour. It wasn’t terribly hot, either! Maybe I’m spoiled by having used it almost daily for months. Spoiled? 😷 I guess you could say I’m spoiled; but not like a rotten apple, I hope! You’d certainly want a mask if you were anywhere in my vicinity. But retirement has me spoiled! I can ride pretty much anytime I want; I don’t have to get up at 4:30 am to get that ride; and lots more! With RAGBRAI in mind, I’ve been riding humpty-back for months. I need to be used to that load, because I’ll want plenty of water during RAGBRAI. I don’t want to be spoiled by riding without a load; and then suffer during the big ride because of it. Today, though, I did take a break from it. I’m tapering for RAGBRAI; and I need a rest from the load once in a while. Just don’t let me get spoiled so that the big event seems too hard! 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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