SpokEasy

SpokEasy

equipment

Trainer

BACK ISSUES, equipment, Training /

Trainer 🏋️‍♀️ I sure could use my trainer now. Unfortunately, the rear wheel of my hybrid doesn’t fit into the trainer; and even if it did, I’m unable to do the necessary bike-lifting at present.  So my leg muscles are becoming mush. I need far more squats than I’ve been doing to keep my leg muscles properly toned; and it doesn’t help that I’ve still got low energy levels. I need to start working on flexibility exercises again, too. A personal trainer could probably do a lot to help me keep from getting too out of shape; but such services are beyond my budget. I must look for exercises that I can perform without stressing my injured elbow; and that don’t strain my ribs. Ribs ☠️ Ribs sound like barbecue to many of us; but cracked ribs are no fun. Mine seem to be recovering quickly; but how do I be sure they’re really OK? I don’t have a trainer to tell me. Must I ask the doctor to do an X-ray? If my ribs are all right, I can start lifting a small weight with my right hand. I don’t quite dare risk a right-sided crank plank; I might fall out of it and land on my left arm. That would be disastrous! I can’t do a grocery run by bicycle yet; so I ordered some stuff online.  But I’ll be glad when I can do it myself again. Not tomorrow, though; the forecast is a rainy one! 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

Trainer Read More »

Pumped Up?

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Pumped Up? ✊ We need to get pumped up before a ride, right? There’s not much sense in riding on under-inflated tires. I’m glad I don’t need a “pecky-bird” (as we called these oil pumps when we were little) to inflate my bicycle tires! For several weeks, I’d been having problems with my pump. It did OK on Schrader valves; but wasn’t making a snug seal on Presta valves. It made it rather hard to get those tires pumped up. Good grief, did I need a new pump? So I carried my pump to the bike shop. They tried it on a bicycle that was on display; and it was OK. Apparently I was pushing the pump’s nozzle down too far. Tomorrow I’ll find out whether I can get it right. Get It Right ✅ I hope I can get it right as a midlife cyclist, too. I’m not trying to train for racing; so I might not have to worry that I’ll work too hard. In fact, some intense work is necessary to improve fitness; and I suspect that I might need more of it! Naturally there are days when it’s hard for me to get pumped up about riding; today I felt like that before I was out of bed. I read somewhere that sometimes you can’t wait for motivation to strike; that you “have to prime the pump”. So I went for a ride; and once under way, I enjoyed it! That’s what I need to do to get it 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 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

Pumped Up? Read More »

Release Valve?

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

Release Valve? ♨️ Is cycling a release valve? Maybe. Don’t we hear all the time that cycling gives you an endorphin high? Or how riding home from work lets you blow off the stresses of the day? I know there are days when I’m tired and/or don’t feel much like riding; but let me climb aboard the bicycle and pedal a mile or two; and I’ll feel much better. I’ll even ride quite vigorously. So is cycling is a release valve from apathy? But don’t forget to relax a bit now and then. Relax a Bit 😮‍💨 It looks like I can relax a bit as far as proto-Gabrielle goes. As of this moment, the system has actually weakened; so it looks like I’ve found a release valve! It still warrants watching, though, until it dissipates.  Today I decided to relax a bit and do a short, easy ride; but I’m considering taking the trailer to the salvage store tomorrow. That will mean riding somewhat harder, because I’ll have the extra weight to pull. It’s ages since I last used the trialer. During the pandemic, I repeatedly brought home huge loads of canned goods, fearing stay-at-home orders at any time. I ended up with too much stuff; and stopped using the trailer so I wouldn’t be tempted. But I hope to find bathroom tissue tomorrow, and that stuff is bulky; so the panniers won’t do. 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 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Release Valve? Read More »

Sitting Uneasy

BACK ISSUES, equipment /

Sitting Uneasy 🪑  I know I sound like a broken record; but I’m tired of sitting uneasy. When will that system out in the Atlantic decide what it’s going to do? Is it something to be concerned about? It sounds like we might not know until the middle of next week. At least I’m not sitting uneasy on the bike.  I’ve got a comfortable saddle; and that goes a long way towards good riding! Especially when I’m starting to increase the mileage. Good cycling shorts are important, too; you don’t want a lot of fabric bunched up under you while pedaling. But what about that potential tropical storm? All we can do is sit tight; and wait and see. Wait and See 👀 I’m tired of the “wait and see” game, though. If only I could see far ahead enough to know whether I’ll need to evacuate! I certainly can’t ride my bicycle out of town ahead of a hurricane; and if I get out by some kind of publicly-provided bus service, I’ll need to take along food and water. My sister says I can come out to her if a storm seems to be threatening; but if I were to fly out, I’d need to plan more than a day or two in advance. Flights might be hard to get, because everyone else will be trying to get out, too. No wonder I’m sitting uneasy. Meanwhile I’ll keep riding. I’ve got to do something to keep my sanity! 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

Sitting Uneasy Read More »

Not So Fast

BACK ISSUES, equipment /

Not So Fast? ⚡️ Sometimes we have to say, not so fast. Like, don’t push too hard too soon in your training; or don’t get too eager to buy a certain bicycle. As my road bike seems to be approaching its end, I’m considering a new one. The bike shop suggested a certain model; and I’ve watched some videos in which purchasers of this bike say they really like it. So I was thinking I’d get one; until I looked up the specs. Not so fast. The bike I was considering isn’t available in the right frame size for me.  Or can the saddle of a 44-cm frame be safely raised to make a 47-cm frame? I’m certain I couldn’t lower the saddle of a 56-cm frame far enough; so here I am, caught in the middle. In the Middle 🙄  So, what can I do when I’m caught in the middle? I can look at other models of road bikes; and I can slow down and take my time. I don’t need a new bicycle instantly. Good thing, too. I was about to  hike over to the ATM at my bank; then get a few things at the grocery store. But I began to hear thunder; and when I went outside, I saw a very stormy-looking sky in the East. I decided, not so fast; and came back indoors. It hasn’t rained much; but I think I’d better wait for the lightning and thunder to move off before I go out. I’m glad this didn’t start when I was out on the bike! 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

Not So Fast Read More »

Feeling the Heat

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

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

Feeling the Heat Read More »

Handwriting

BACK ISSUES, equipment /

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

Handwriting Read More »

Readjusting

BACK ISSUES, equipment /

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

Readjusting Read More »

Fitbit Kids

BACK ISSUES, equipment /

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

Fitbit Kids Read More »

Mountain Ride?

BACK ISSUES, bicycling, equipment /

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

Mountain Ride? Read More »