Here's a list of new actions and inspiring connections that I made related to the U.S. Bicycle Route System as a result of this year's National Bike Summit:
I had breakfast with Jim McDonnell, AASHTO liaison to the U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS) Task Force. During our time together, I was able to lay out all the routes under development in Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Maine, New Hampshire, Missouri, Washington, Oregon, and California. Needless to say, he was impressed! We discussed new priority corridors, adding spurs and loops to U.S. Bicycle Routes and how all these should be numbered.
I reconnected with John Bolecek. The last time I saw John it was the summer 2008 and he was happily eating ice cream in our offices after traveling from Virginia to Missoula by bicycle on the TransAmerica Trail. At the Summit, he was all spiffed up in his new role as a safety analyst working for the U.S. DOT's office of Safety, Energy and Environment. It's great to see cyclists working for our highest transportation office.
I had lunch with Greta Alquist from Minnesota DOT. I think she might have been our sole bicycle and pedestrian coordinator at the Summit. We discussed how working on U.S. Bicycle Routes will fit into her hectic schedule (she's motivated!) and about a bike map program that they are exploring called cyclopath.org.
Every time I turned around, I seemed to bump into the dynamic Susan Peithman from Bicycle Transportation Alliance in Portland. She in turn introduced me to a number of folks, including Matt Bormet from Senator Ron Wyden's office.
I met Dorothy Le from the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition. They along with four others groups (Seattle, Minneapolis, Detroit, Philadelphia) received REI Bike Friendly Communities grants to make their cities more bike friendly.
Along with all these connections, I was also able to talk about implementation strategies with a number of states including:
- Connecticut: MaryEllen Thidbodeau, Central Connecticut Bicycle Alliance (she'll be an important contact for planning in the New England states).
- West Virginia: Dennis Strawn (a bike advocate that is intent on making WV more bike friendly, including helping bring U.S. Bicycle Routes to his state).
- Ohio: Andy Williamson, Five Rivers MetroParks (I have a meeting with Ohio and Kentucky scheduled in June!).
- New Mexico: Craig Degenhardt, BikeABQ (New Mexico is already on-board, but it's always great to have local city advocacy connections).
- Tennessee: Phillip Pugliese, Outdoor Chattanooga, Elle Colquitt from Mini Adventure Series and Paul Moinester from Rep Cohen's office (more on routes for TN in next week's post!).
- Michigan: John Lindenmayer, League of Michigan Bicyclists; Todd Scott, Detroit Greenways Cooridinator, Michigan Trails and Greenways; Rory Neuner, Safe Routes to School, some nice folks representing PEAC (Programs to Educate All Cyclists) and Allison Pascale from Sen. Levin's office. (Wow! Michigan had a powerful presence for cycling).
- Washington: Barbara Culp & Dave Janis, Bicycle Alliance of Washington and Chuck Ayers, Cascade Bicycle Club (we set a date for a second implementation meeting).
- Indiana: Nancy Tibbett, Indiana Bicycle Coalition (Nancy and I will pull together a planning a meeting in the near future)
Excitement from the National Bike Summit continues to unfold but it was really thrilling for me to connect with so many cyclists and witness the enthusiasm for the U.S. Bicycle Route System first hand!
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BUILDING THE U.S. BICYCLE ROUTE SYSTEM is posted by Ginny Sullivan, USBRS coordinator at Adventure Cycling, and features news and updates related to the emerging U.S. Bicycle Route System. The USBRS project is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by a task force under the auspices of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Members of the task force include officials and staff from state DOTs, the Federal Highway Administration, and nonprofits like the East Coast Greenway Alliance, and Mississippi River Trail, Inc.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
They Ride for a Reason
In 2008, we dedicated the September/October issue of Adventure Cyclist to the phenomenon of cause-related bike travel. At the time, I felt that it was a growing trend and wanted to draw attention to these rides, some organized through a large nonprofit health organization such as the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or others, some organized as single-person, or small-group endeavors.
If I thought this movement was big then, I don’t know how to describe it now. Over the last five years, submissions and queries for publication in Adventure Cyclist have more than quadrupled to something in the neighborhood of 750 per year. There are days when I get five or more queries, and now about a third of these have a cause-related aspect to them, many with personal heart-rending stories attached. Make no mistake, I think it’s extraordinary and admirable that so many people have decided to undertake these arduous journeys hoping to contribute toward the solution of many of society’s numerous ills, especially when so many others seem only interested in accumulating as much for themselves as possible.
As much as I admire these people and what they’re doing, it does put me in a bit of a quandary because, by deciding to cover one or even a few of these rides, it requires that I make a judgment that the others are somehow not worthy of the same coverage, and that simply isn’t the case. I only wish we could cover them all.
Another issue is that, at its core, Adventure Cyclist is about the adventure itself and less about the reason for the adventure. I haven’t concluded that adventure is more important than solving any of today’s pressing challenges, not by any stretch, but I am concluding that it’s more necessary than ever for people to experience adventure in their evermore constricted lives (especially by bicycle) and that promoting this notion is at the very core of our mission. So Adventure Cyclist will remain dedicated to the adventure aspect of bike travel and we’ll have to figure out another way to promote cause-related rides, possibly from within the Cyclists’ Yellow Pages, our online resource for all things bicycle travel (www.adventurecycling.org/cyp), or in another way that hasn’t yet seeped into my consciousness (or conscientiousness).
Right now I’ve got 64 cause-related rides of a wide variety in a database, and I’m adding to it every day, so if you know of one, or are planning to embark on one, feel free to email me the details or a website so I can add it to my collection. You can email me at editorATadventurecyclingDOTorg.
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AND THEN, THE MENTAL CALISTHENICS is written by Mike Deme, editor of Adventure Cyclist and publications director for Adventure Cycling Association.
If I thought this movement was big then, I don’t know how to describe it now. Over the last five years, submissions and queries for publication in Adventure Cyclist have more than quadrupled to something in the neighborhood of 750 per year. There are days when I get five or more queries, and now about a third of these have a cause-related aspect to them, many with personal heart-rending stories attached. Make no mistake, I think it’s extraordinary and admirable that so many people have decided to undertake these arduous journeys hoping to contribute toward the solution of many of society’s numerous ills, especially when so many others seem only interested in accumulating as much for themselves as possible.
As much as I admire these people and what they’re doing, it does put me in a bit of a quandary because, by deciding to cover one or even a few of these rides, it requires that I make a judgment that the others are somehow not worthy of the same coverage, and that simply isn’t the case. I only wish we could cover them all.
Another issue is that, at its core, Adventure Cyclist is about the adventure itself and less about the reason for the adventure. I haven’t concluded that adventure is more important than solving any of today’s pressing challenges, not by any stretch, but I am concluding that it’s more necessary than ever for people to experience adventure in their evermore constricted lives (especially by bicycle) and that promoting this notion is at the very core of our mission. So Adventure Cyclist will remain dedicated to the adventure aspect of bike travel and we’ll have to figure out another way to promote cause-related rides, possibly from within the Cyclists’ Yellow Pages, our online resource for all things bicycle travel (www.adventurecycling.org/cyp), or in another way that hasn’t yet seeped into my consciousness (or conscientiousness).
Right now I’ve got 64 cause-related rides of a wide variety in a database, and I’m adding to it every day, so if you know of one, or are planning to embark on one, feel free to email me the details or a website so I can add it to my collection. You can email me at editorATadventurecyclingDOTorg.
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AND THEN, THE MENTAL CALISTHENICS is written by Mike Deme, editor of Adventure Cyclist and publications director for Adventure Cycling Association.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
DC Area Cycling Tours: Something for Everyone
This season we're really offering something for everyone on this route: a fully-supported tour which departs September 25, 2010, a fully-supported C&O Family tour, which leaves DC on July 10 and promises to be really special --- great, car-free cycling and lots of cool ways to interact with the history of this region, including historical reenactments and and a black-powder shooting demo at Fort Frederick.
If you're into self-contained touring, you may want to check out our Georgetown to Steeltown tour. Hurry, this one hits the trail on May 15, 2010.
Learn about Adventure Cycling's other guided cycling tours.
photo by Gregg Bleakney
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ON THE ROAD was written this week by Winona Batemen, media director, filling in for the tours team as they get their new staff up-to-speed.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Please Permit Me to Rant
I know I’m not alone when saying one of my pet peeves is seeing people talking on their cell phones, or fiddling with their handhelds, while multi-tasking at something really important -- like, say, operating a motor vehicle. Nothing terrifies me more when I’m bicycling down the road than the thought of someone barreling up behind me at the wheel of a ton of steel who’s arguing with his girlfriend over the phone, or tweeting her friends about the amazing herd of deer she just saw.
That's why it made me happy last week to learn that Click and Clack, the hilarious Tappet Brothers -- aka the Car Talk boys, Tom and Ray Magliozzi -- have teamed up with researchers at the University of Utah to launch the Driver Distraction Center at the Car Talk website.
“Though Tom and Ray have been speaking out about distracted driving for years, National Safety Council research indicates that cell phone use and texting while driving cause at least 28 percent of all traffic accidents -- around 1.6 million accidents each year,” says this Newswise story. “This startling statistic moved the brothers to redouble their efforts and partner with the University of Utah Applied Cognition Laboratory to produce the online Driver Distraction Center.”
Similarly, I don’t think cyclists should talk on cell phones while they’re riding, either. So imagine the roller coaster ride it sent me on when, shortly after reading about Click and Clack, I ran across information about a product called the ActiveBLU Wireless Bluetooth Helmet Headset. According to this website, the gadget “provides high quality Bluetooth wireless audio transmissions from the user’s Bluetooth enabled cell phone to their helmet. It easily attaches to any helmet and allows the user to quickly and safely answer or place calls without having to slow down or stop riding. The unique engineering of the microphone and ear piece delivers remarkable sound even at riding speeds of up to 40 MPH while allowing both hands to remain on the bike for maximum safety.” The italics are mine.
Aaaaarrrrghhh.
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 42,000 readers worldwide.
That's why it made me happy last week to learn that Click and Clack, the hilarious Tappet Brothers -- aka the Car Talk boys, Tom and Ray Magliozzi -- have teamed up with researchers at the University of Utah to launch the Driver Distraction Center at the Car Talk website.
“Though Tom and Ray have been speaking out about distracted driving for years, National Safety Council research indicates that cell phone use and texting while driving cause at least 28 percent of all traffic accidents -- around 1.6 million accidents each year,” says this Newswise story. “This startling statistic moved the brothers to redouble their efforts and partner with the University of Utah Applied Cognition Laboratory to produce the online Driver Distraction Center.”
Similarly, I don’t think cyclists should talk on cell phones while they’re riding, either. So imagine the roller coaster ride it sent me on when, shortly after reading about Click and Clack, I ran across information about a product called the ActiveBLU Wireless Bluetooth Helmet Headset. According to this website, the gadget “provides high quality Bluetooth wireless audio transmissions from the user’s Bluetooth enabled cell phone to their helmet. It easily attaches to any helmet and allows the user to quickly and safely answer or place calls without having to slow down or stop riding. The unique engineering of the microphone and ear piece delivers remarkable sound even at riding speeds of up to 40 MPH while allowing both hands to remain on the bike for maximum safety.” The italics are mine.
Aaaaarrrrghhh.
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 42,000 readers worldwide.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Chain Lubricants
Chain lubricant seems as though it is a straight forward decision, however, selecting the proper lubricant for your environment and style of riding can add quite a bit of life to your chain and cassette. The goal of any lube is to create a barrier between your chain and natural elements you encounter on your ride, as well as reduce the amount of corrosion and friction placed on your overall drivetrain. When looking for a lubricant, you will often hear the terms 'dry lube' and 'wet lube' tossed around. Here's a quick run down on what these refer to, as well as where they can best be applied.
Dry Lube often refers to a wax-based lube. If you do the majority of your riding in a dry and/or dusty climate, this might be your ticket. Dry lubes resist buildup from dirt and road debris, leaving your chain relatively clean at the end of the day. They tend to require more frequent applications, however, you will spend less time cleaning your chain at the end of the day. For best results, try and apply dry lubricants the night before your ride, giving the lube more time to settle into their hardened state for optimal longevity.
Wet lubes tend to be oil based, and the type of oil base, as well as viscosity, can vary significantly from one brand to another. These lubricants stand up to harsh conditions very well, and can last for numerous days before another application is required, depending on road or trail conditions. Wet lubes also tend to attract a lot of buildup, so you will want to make sure to check your chain at the end of the day to see if it needs to be wiped down. You can reduce the amount of post ride cleaning by using wet lube sparingly.
When applying either style of lubricant, I have found it best to prop or lean the bike in a way that the pedals can be easily spun backwards without bumping into any objects. From there, place the nose of the bottle near the chain, and squeeze just hard enough for a rapid drip to come out. If the lube is coming out too fast, you're squeezing too hard. Let the chain run through completely just one or two times, and you should have plenty. From there, take a rag and wipe the chain down. This step will remove any excess lube, and help spread it over the chain pins and links. The last step is to shift the chain up and down the gears a few times to help lubricate your cassette.
If you have any doubt as to which lubricant is best for your bike, talk to your local mechanic and ask what they would recommend. They should have a good idea of what will work best for your region.
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TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
Dry Lube often refers to a wax-based lube. If you do the majority of your riding in a dry and/or dusty climate, this might be your ticket. Dry lubes resist buildup from dirt and road debris, leaving your chain relatively clean at the end of the day. They tend to require more frequent applications, however, you will spend less time cleaning your chain at the end of the day. For best results, try and apply dry lubricants the night before your ride, giving the lube more time to settle into their hardened state for optimal longevity.
Wet lubes tend to be oil based, and the type of oil base, as well as viscosity, can vary significantly from one brand to another. These lubricants stand up to harsh conditions very well, and can last for numerous days before another application is required, depending on road or trail conditions. Wet lubes also tend to attract a lot of buildup, so you will want to make sure to check your chain at the end of the day to see if it needs to be wiped down. You can reduce the amount of post ride cleaning by using wet lube sparingly.
When applying either style of lubricant, I have found it best to prop or lean the bike in a way that the pedals can be easily spun backwards without bumping into any objects. From there, place the nose of the bottle near the chain, and squeeze just hard enough for a rapid drip to come out. If the lube is coming out too fast, you're squeezing too hard. Let the chain run through completely just one or two times, and you should have plenty. From there, take a rag and wipe the chain down. This step will remove any excess lube, and help spread it over the chain pins and links. The last step is to shift the chain up and down the gears a few times to help lubricate your cassette.
If you have any doubt as to which lubricant is best for your bike, talk to your local mechanic and ask what they would recommend. They should have a good idea of what will work best for your region.
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TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Dear Bob--A Journey Through the Deep South--Hog Hunting
It had been twenty years since I had done a long distance bicycle journey in the United States. There had been plenty of pedaling ... but all outside U.S. borders.
My first trip had ignited a passion for bicycle travel. My country defined by the incredible people that we encountered along the way. Invitations into homes, meals, hugs and kisses goodbye with folks who had been strangers only twelve hours prior ... well, if you've bicycle toured, you know all about it.
But time changes everything. And I was told multiple times that a journey in 2001 would be vastly different than a journey in 1981. The country was more wary. More paranoid. More suspicious.
As Kat and I began the first day of our trip, we wondered how we would be received.
We found out soon enough.
DearBob--Hog Hunting
Who's Bob?
Next week:
The Roller Coaster: Using baseball to illustrate the extreme emotional ups and downs of travel
audio recording (Hog Hunting) by Willie Weir
photos (Congaree Swamp, South Carolina, 2001) by Willie Weir
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SIGHTS AND SOUNDS appears on Friday afternoons. Willie Weir is a columnist for Adventure Cyclist magazine. His latest book Travels with Willie: Adventure Cyclist compiles his favorite writings over the last twelve years. He lives in Seattle with his wife Kat. You can read about their local adventures and life without a car at www.yellowtentadventures.com.
40,000+ and Climbing!
I've been thinking a lot about our routes lately, and all the people that benefit from traveling by bicycle. Some of the stories we hear are pretty amazing. Everything from people fundraising for important causes to people needing to take time for self-discovery. Parents and their children, newlyweds, friends who have talked about a bicycle trip for 10 years, and a multitude of other dreamers. Often these trips are about accomplishing a goal -- riding across the country or across the state. Meeting these goals gives people sense of accomplishment in their lives and often are life-changing events.
And then I got to thinking about how difficult this would be for some people if they didn't have Adventure Cycling's great maps and routes -- didn't have access to the best information on bicycle travel anywhere.
Well, thankfully, that's not the case. In fact, we'd like you to join us in celebrating a major milestone. With the publication of the Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route, our route network will surpass 40,000 miles of mapped cycling routes! That's 40,000 miles of carefully researched routes and services specifically selected with the traveling cyclist in mind.
We've developed a great way for you to help support these unique and very special routes: sponsoring a mile. Miles are available on the Lewis & Clark Trail, Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, TransAm Trail, and the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route. By sponsoring a mile, you help ensure that the most up-to-date information is available to you or anyone who dreams of traveling by bicycle. Learn more about sponsoring a mile.
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BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the second and fourth Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.
And then I got to thinking about how difficult this would be for some people if they didn't have Adventure Cycling's great maps and routes -- didn't have access to the best information on bicycle travel anywhere.
Well, thankfully, that's not the case. In fact, we'd like you to join us in celebrating a major milestone. With the publication of the Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route, our route network will surpass 40,000 miles of mapped cycling routes! That's 40,000 miles of carefully researched routes and services specifically selected with the traveling cyclist in mind.
We've developed a great way for you to help support these unique and very special routes: sponsoring a mile. Miles are available on the Lewis & Clark Trail, Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, TransAm Trail, and the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route. By sponsoring a mile, you help ensure that the most up-to-date information is available to you or anyone who dreams of traveling by bicycle. Learn more about sponsoring a mile.
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BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the second and fourth Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Act Today -- Support Cycling in the USA!
Our hero's name is Ray LaHood and he is the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). He leads the federal agency responsible for setting policy and dispensing billions in funds for all forms of transportation.
What's extraordinary is that a couple of weeks ago, at the National Bike Summit, Secretary LaHood -- a former Republican Congressman from Illinois -- made an impromptu visit to the Summit and told an enthusiastic crowd that the status of cycling and walking will be dramatically elevated in federal transportation planning. Specifically, he said: "Today, I want to announce a sea change. People across America who value bicycling should have a voice when it comes to transportation planning. This is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of non-motorized."
Wow! A few days later, he unveiled a major revision in federal policy regarding biking and walking. Read it and you'll realize what a great opportunity this is to give Americans cleaner, greener, and less expensive transportation options.
But no good deed goes unpunished. A few days later, Secretary LaHood was ridiculed for his announcements. One Member of Congress even asked him -- in a public hearing! -- if he is was "on drugs" when he made the statements.
Of course he wasn't -- and we need to speak up for Secretary LaHood today! Here's what you can do right now:
+ Send Secretary LaHood a thank you note at the DOT email address, his Facebook page, or by phone: 202-366-4000.
+ Ask your city council or state legislator to support the new US DOT policy (like they've done in Lee County, FL).
+ Write a quick note to your local newspaper supporting Secretary La Hood and the new US DOT policy.
+ Share this post with other cycling friends and ask them to speak up for cycling and Secretary La Hood.
Don't delay and thanks so much. We have a new and visible champion for cycling in Washington, DC and we want him -- and his opponents -- to know that there are millions of people who see lots more cycling in America's future.
in the photo: Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood at the 2010 National Bike Summit
photo courtesy of bikeportland.org on Flickr
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JIM SAYER is the executive director of Adventure Cycling Association.
Recap of Madison, WI Trip
One of the experiences I love most from making trips like the one I recently made to Madison, Wisconsin, is the connection with our members. Their enthusiasm and excitement for our mission is contagious. Many thanks for the energy boost!
Some highlights of this trip include (in order of occurrence):
I got caught up with a friend who is also a former tour leader for Adventure Cycling. It had been close to seven years since we talked so there was a lot to say! In the course of our conversation, I hope I was able to convince him to join my husband and I on the Black Hills Loop in South Dakota this fall.
Together with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, we hosted a regional gathering of 48 people. They had great questions about bicycle travel, maps, and tours. There was particular interest in figuring out how to convince airlines and Amtrak to take better care of cyclists traveling with their bikes. I love doing these meetings and hope to hold one when I travel to St. Petersburg, Florida, in October.
I had a coffee meeting with BFW and Wisconsin DOT staff. Things are looking good for USBR 20 and 30 across the state. It was great to pore over maps together and discuss the merits of road routing versus trails. Keep your eye on the USBRS page for more news to come in the fall.
The MACDAD student meeting was well attended and they seemed to appreciate hearing from a working cartographer. I managed to plug the benefits of bicycle travel while I was at it. (I happen to think the experience of a long distance bike trip is an interesting tidbit to put on a resume.)
On Saturday night I dined with my fellow NACIS board members at Samba Brazilian Grill, a restaurant that is likely the dream spot for many a touring cyclist. Essentially, it's an all you can eat extravaganza of up to 10 different kinds of meat grilled on a spit. Yum! All that was preceded by a fabulous appetizer, vegetable, and salad buffet.
Unfortunately, I didn't get in any cycling on the trip. It was a bit on the wet and chilly side and I didn't have the appropriate gear with me. As I was packing the night before departure, I realized I was running out of room. Those items were the first to go (or stay, I guess). Another time, Madison, another time.
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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Share this Survey: Why Don't More Women Bike?
It's a curious thing. Women in the U.S. just don't bike as much as men -- yet in many European countries, women cyclists are plentiful -- they commute to work, take their children to school, and tour just as much as the men. But statistically speaking, in America, we women are far outnumbered by the opposite sex.
Last week, while in Washington DC for the National Bike Summit, I met Fionnuala Quinn, a civil engineer and self-proclaimed bike advocate from the Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling. Fionnuala desires to change the demographic imbalance of bicycling. In order to do that, she contacted Kit Keller of the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycling Professionals (APBP). The two came up with a plan that includes a survey for women that will help identify the barriers they have to cycling -- whether it be for commuting, utilitarian, or recreational purposes.
In the bicycling world, many of us think we've identified the major barriers women have to taking up the activity, but as Fionnuala and Kit know, sometimes information gathered in a survey reveals things that may have been overlooked.
You may think I am preaching to the choir -- after all, you're reading the Adventure Cycling blog so you must have some interest in cycling -- but here's where Fionnuala and Kit need your help; you probably know at least a dozen women who DO NOT cycle, please ask them to take the survey and forward this link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/womencycling to them. The survey will close on May 15.
If your curious to find out the preliminary results of the survey or have an interest in addressing this issue for your own community, a free webinar entitled "Writing Women Back into Bicycling: Changing Transportation Culture to Encourage More Women to Cycle More Places More Often" will be held on March 31, from 3-5 pm Eastern time.
On a side note, this will be my last Connections post for awhile but I will be posting more frequently on Building the U.S. Bicycle Route System.
photo by Curtis Corlew
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CONNECTIONS is posted twice a month by Ginny Sullivan, Adventure Cycling's special projects director and features the cultural, historical, geographical, and human connections created through bike travel. Find out about our award-winning Underground Railroad Bicycle Route.
Atlanta Gathering Aims to Inspire Traveling Cyclists
Interested in learning about the life changing possibilities of bicycle travel? Please join Adventure Cycling Association for a very special regional gathering in Atlanta on Thursday, April 8th, 2010.
Adventure Cycling Association staff, Winona Bateman and Amy Corbin, will share the latest news on bicycle travel and adventures in North America. They will be looking to the year ahead, previewing the Association’s new Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route, giving program updates, and highlighting major initiatives such as the emerging U.S. Bicycle Route System. There will also be time for you to share your thoughts, ideas, and stories. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
Atlanta event details:
Thursday, April 8th; 7:00-8:30 p.m.
REI-Atlanta, located at 1800 Northeast Expy
Please RSVP by April 5th by emailing bpetersen@adventurecycling.org or calling Beth Petersen at 800-755-2453 x 211.
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NEWS, NETWORKING, AND NEW MEDIA is written by Winona Bateman, Adventure Cycling's media director, and highlights cool media (articles, videos, photos, etc.) and meet-ups related to Adventure Cycling and bicycle travel. Writing a story about bicycle travel or Adventure Cycling Association? You can contact Winona via press AT adventurecycling DOT org. Visit our media room or view our news releases.
Adventure Cycling Association staff, Winona Bateman and Amy Corbin, will share the latest news on bicycle travel and adventures in North America. They will be looking to the year ahead, previewing the Association’s new Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route, giving program updates, and highlighting major initiatives such as the emerging U.S. Bicycle Route System. There will also be time for you to share your thoughts, ideas, and stories. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
Atlanta event details:
Thursday, April 8th; 7:00-8:30 p.m.
REI-Atlanta, located at 1800 Northeast Expy
Please RSVP by April 5th by emailing bpetersen@adventurecycling.org or calling Beth Petersen at 800-755-2453 x 211.
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NEWS, NETWORKING, AND NEW MEDIA is written by Winona Bateman, Adventure Cycling's media director, and highlights cool media (articles, videos, photos, etc.) and meet-ups related to Adventure Cycling and bicycle travel. Writing a story about bicycle travel or Adventure Cycling Association? You can contact Winona via press AT adventurecycling DOT org. Visit our media room or view our news releases.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Grand Cycling in the National Parks
In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem the snowpack is way down this winter, between 40 and 65 percent of the average snow-water equivalent in many drainages. Some reports say it's the third-driest winter on record. While this spawns fears of drought and forest fire for the coming summer, there is at least one advantage to the scant snowfall: an earlier onset of the riding season in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports that the plows are already out on the Teton Park Road, which remains closed to motorized traffic from Taggart Lake Trailhead to Signal Mountain Lodge until May 1 — thereby becoming one of the best and most scenic de facto bicycling paths in the world. (Note: The newspaper article misstates that it opens to automobiles in early April. Here is the correct information.)
Things are a bit more complicated in Yellowstone, where certain roads are closed to cars, but open to bikes, from mid-March until the third Thursday in April. As you can see in the photo accompanying this information page, it has the potential to be a chilly ride.
But if you manage to hit either park on one of those rare early spring days that are both sunny and calm, it can make for a ride of a lifetime.
Grand Teton National Park photo by Michael McCoy
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 40,000 readers worldwide.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Touring Bikes Under $1500
Purchasing a new touring bike is as exciting as it is intimidating, and one of the most intimidating factors can often be the price tag of the bike. To help ease the process, today I would like to quickly go through some touring bikes that are under $1500, and ready to hit the road when you are.
Before I jump in to the list, it should be noted that all of these bikes include a few common touring features, such as a full set of eyelets for racks and fenders, as well as sturdy 36 hole spoke wheels, and 700x32 tires.
Jamis Aurora ($1025): The steel frame and fork are decked with all the eyelets you need for racks and fenders, as well as a pump peg on the headtube. The triple crank and 11-34 cassette combine to give you plenty of gear range for long climbs, with Shimano Tiagra STI levers handling the shifting. As a bonus, front and rear fenders are included.
Surly Long Haul Trucker ($1095): One of the more popular bikes we saw come through the office last touring season, the steel frame and fork offer a very smooth ride. Aside from the rack and fender eyelets, the frame also includes a pump peg, three bottle cage mounts, and spoke holders on the rear chain stay. The traditional bar end shifters are complimented by the triple crankset, and 11-34 cassette. (Read a full review of the Long Haul Trucker.)
Masi Speciale Randonneur ($1145): The steel frame has a very nice classic geometry and paint job. The compact double crankset coupled with an 11-25 cassette make the gearing a little bit hard for heavily loaded touring. Some extra bonuses include a pump peg, front and rear fenders, as well as pedals with toe clips.
Kona Sutra ($1199): This bike is pretty much ready to go out of the box. The steel frame has a sloping top tube, which makes it a little easier to mount and dismount the bike. Mechanical disc brakes are easy to service, and provide a lot of stopping power, and the triple crank gives you a lot of gear range. Included are a full set of racks and fenders, however, pedals you will need to supply your own pedals.
Trek 520 ($1319): Ever since I've been able to ride a bike, there has been a Trek 520. The steel frame incorporates a sloping top tube, and includes a third set of bottle cage mounts. Shimano's bar end shifters and drivetrain are reliable, and Trek includes a rear rack, in addition to front and rear fenders.
Fuji Touring ($1100): The classic appearance comes with a pretty classic build offering a large gear range and steel frame. It does display some modern technology with Shimano's 9spd STI shifters, but aside from that it, keeps things simple. Rear rack and pedals are included.
Cannondale Touring 2 ($1449): Unlike any other bike mentioned on this list, this one uses an aluminum frame, which brings the weight down a bit. The steel fork and geometry combine for a smooth ride, and you get three sets of bottle cage mounts, and a rear rack.
Novara Randonee Touring Bike ($999): This bike actually dropped in price from last year's model, and still includes some really nice features, such as a triple crank, Shimano 9spd STI shift levers, rear rack, and third set of bottle cage mounts.
GT Peace Tour ($850): The least expensive bike in the bunch, the steel frame is reinforced using GT's triple triangle technology. Some nice traditional touches can be found throughout, such as bar end shifters, triple crank, fenders, pedals with toe clips, and a classically styled GT saddle. Mechanical disc brakes are a nice modern feature that will improve your stopping power.
For more information on any of these bikes, be sure to check out the manufacturer's web page for complete specs and sizing information. For more information on deciding which style of bike is best for you, keep a sharp eye out for the upcoming April edition of our Adventure Cyclist magazine, where John Schubert will discuss what to look for when purchasing a touring bike for yourself.
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TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
Before I jump in to the list, it should be noted that all of these bikes include a few common touring features, such as a full set of eyelets for racks and fenders, as well as sturdy 36 hole spoke wheels, and 700x32 tires.
Jamis Aurora ($1025): The steel frame and fork are decked with all the eyelets you need for racks and fenders, as well as a pump peg on the headtube. The triple crank and 11-34 cassette combine to give you plenty of gear range for long climbs, with Shimano Tiagra STI levers handling the shifting. As a bonus, front and rear fenders are included.
Surly Long Haul Trucker ($1095): One of the more popular bikes we saw come through the office last touring season, the steel frame and fork offer a very smooth ride. Aside from the rack and fender eyelets, the frame also includes a pump peg, three bottle cage mounts, and spoke holders on the rear chain stay. The traditional bar end shifters are complimented by the triple crankset, and 11-34 cassette. (Read a full review of the Long Haul Trucker.)
Masi Speciale Randonneur ($1145): The steel frame has a very nice classic geometry and paint job. The compact double crankset coupled with an 11-25 cassette make the gearing a little bit hard for heavily loaded touring. Some extra bonuses include a pump peg, front and rear fenders, as well as pedals with toe clips.
Kona Sutra ($1199): This bike is pretty much ready to go out of the box. The steel frame has a sloping top tube, which makes it a little easier to mount and dismount the bike. Mechanical disc brakes are easy to service, and provide a lot of stopping power, and the triple crank gives you a lot of gear range. Included are a full set of racks and fenders, however, pedals you will need to supply your own pedals.
Trek 520 ($1319): Ever since I've been able to ride a bike, there has been a Trek 520. The steel frame incorporates a sloping top tube, and includes a third set of bottle cage mounts. Shimano's bar end shifters and drivetrain are reliable, and Trek includes a rear rack, in addition to front and rear fenders.
Fuji Touring ($1100): The classic appearance comes with a pretty classic build offering a large gear range and steel frame. It does display some modern technology with Shimano's 9spd STI shifters, but aside from that it, keeps things simple. Rear rack and pedals are included.
Cannondale Touring 2 ($1449): Unlike any other bike mentioned on this list, this one uses an aluminum frame, which brings the weight down a bit. The steel fork and geometry combine for a smooth ride, and you get three sets of bottle cage mounts, and a rear rack.
Novara Randonee Touring Bike ($999): This bike actually dropped in price from last year's model, and still includes some really nice features, such as a triple crank, Shimano 9spd STI shift levers, rear rack, and third set of bottle cage mounts.
GT Peace Tour ($850): The least expensive bike in the bunch, the steel frame is reinforced using GT's triple triangle technology. Some nice traditional touches can be found throughout, such as bar end shifters, triple crank, fenders, pedals with toe clips, and a classically styled GT saddle. Mechanical disc brakes are a nice modern feature that will improve your stopping power.
For more information on any of these bikes, be sure to check out the manufacturer's web page for complete specs and sizing information. For more information on deciding which style of bike is best for you, keep a sharp eye out for the upcoming April edition of our Adventure Cyclist magazine, where John Schubert will discuss what to look for when purchasing a touring bike for yourself.
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TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Dear Bob--A Journey Through the Deep South--Who's Vera?
We began our Deep South bicycle trip by transporting ourselves and our tandem in a Ford Taurus without a rack. Quite the impossible task unless you have a Rodriguez 8-Ball tandem with S&S couplings.
We couldn't add a rack because it wasn't our car. We were delivering it via a Driveaway company. But once we had taken the bike apart, it neatly fit into the trunk.
Then it was a several thousand mile road trip across the country with plenty of time to ponder, "Who's Vera?"
DearBob--Who's Vera?
Who's Bob?
Next week:
Hog Hunting: Life outside the "cement" world.
audio recording (Who's Vera?) by Willie Weir
photos (Rodriguez 8-ball tandem) by Willie Weir
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SIGHTS AND SOUNDS appears on Friday afternoons. Willie Weir is a columnist for Adventure Cyclist magazine. His latest book Travels with Willie: Adventure Cyclist compiles his favorite writings over the last twelve years. He lives in Seattle with his wife Kat. You can read about their local adventures and life without a car at www.yellowtentadventures.com.
January and February Share the Joy Winners
As I shared last time, our Share the Joy contest has been extended and expanded for 2010. We have added a monthly drawing component in addition to our annual drawing for a free bike. If you want to learn more about how to qualify, visit our Share the Joy page.
I have two winners to announce today. Our January winner was Sheila Rosenthal, a 3 year member from West Lafayette, IN. Sheila won an Arkel Tailrider.
I have two winners to announce today. Our January winner was Sheila Rosenthal, a 3 year member from West Lafayette, IN. Sheila won an Arkel Tailrider.
Our February winner, Leah Gruhn, also a 3 year member, from Duluth, MN, who won a riding kit (Jersey, shorts, socks) from Cannondale.
Congratulations to our first two winners of the year. Our March winner will receive an Orange Transit Tour Pannier from Detours.
Our two grand prizes for the year include a $500 Adventure Cycling shopping spree (for the person who recruits the most new members) and a Drakkar bicycle from Rawland Cycles, valued at $2500. The bicycle winner will be randomly drawn from all entries. Visit the contest page to learn about all of the ways that you can get entered to win.
All of our prizes are generously donated by these businesses because they believe in the mission of Adventure Cycling and support the work we do. Please consider supporting these great sponsors as you gear up for the 2010 touring season. Many of the brands can be found in the Adventure Cycling Cyclosource store.
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MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS is typically posted the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month by Amy Corbin, Membership and Marketing Coordinator. Membership Highlights spotlights the various benefits of membership, what we have accomplished thanks to member support, and even interviews with some of our most passionate and dedicated members, both individual and organizational.
Congratulations to our first two winners of the year. Our March winner will receive an Orange Transit Tour Pannier from Detours.
Our two grand prizes for the year include a $500 Adventure Cycling shopping spree (for the person who recruits the most new members) and a Drakkar bicycle from Rawland Cycles, valued at $2500. The bicycle winner will be randomly drawn from all entries. Visit the contest page to learn about all of the ways that you can get entered to win.
All of our prizes are generously donated by these businesses because they believe in the mission of Adventure Cycling and support the work we do. Please consider supporting these great sponsors as you gear up for the 2010 touring season. Many of the brands can be found in the Adventure Cycling Cyclosource store.
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MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS is typically posted the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month by Amy Corbin, Membership and Marketing Coordinator. Membership Highlights spotlights the various benefits of membership, what we have accomplished thanks to member support, and even interviews with some of our most passionate and dedicated members, both individual and organizational.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Bike Summit Report #2: Cycling Ascending?
+ A packed workshop on the economic and political power of bike travel. Thanks to Adventure Cycling member Todd Copley for pulling this together. I spoke about the rising interest in bike touring -- and how it relates to grassroots advocacy -- along with Lauren Hefferon of Ciclismo Classico and Kristin Dahl of Travel
+ A rousing speech from Congressman Jim Oberstar (profiled in the latest Adventure Cyclist magazine as “cycling’s best friend in Congress”), including a terrific passage of praise for the U.S. Bicycle Route System, which he and Congressman Peter DeFazio have included in pending federal transportation legislation. Other fantastic Congressional friends of cycling, especially Earl Blumenauer from
+ The unveiling of a cool new public awareness and mobilization campaign, People for Bikes, launched by Bikes Belong with help from the SRAM Cycling Fund, to recruit at least a million cyclists in support of cycling in America. Add your voice -- it’s cost-free and I just signed up.
+ A fantastic pizza party with our friends at the East Coast Greenway Alliance, who are working closely with us on the U.S. Bicycle Route System. Special thanks to Adventure Cycling life member Tony Barrett, who handed me a beer the instant I walked in the door, and is doing great work in
+ The announcement -- and front page news coverage -- that cycle tracks are being installed on
+ Another rousing speech from Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, who jumped up on a dais in a jammed Congressional hearing room and proclaimed -- to impassioned cheers from cyclists across America -- the Administration’s strong support for cycling and livable communities.
Needless to say, a great time was had by all -- and cycling has never been more prominent in the nation’s capitol. For more information, check out Jonathan Maus’ excellent blog posts at bikeportland.org, sponsored by Planet Bike.
in the above photo: A sample of what happened at the Capitol -- Jim Sayer meeting with Oregon Congressman (and bike hero) Peter De Fazio, just before the National Bike Summit.
photo courtesy of Jim Sayer
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JIM SAYER is the executive director of Adventure Cycling Association.
Cookie Lady Update
For those of you planning to ride the TransAmerica Trail this summer and visit the Cookie Lady (aka June Curry, the original Trail Angel) in Afton, Virgina, be sure to arrange to sleep elsewhere that night. Though she still loves to have cyclists drop by for a visit, June has decided that the bike house will not be available as an overnight stop. She will continue greeting cyclists with cookies and drinks, and the bike house will be open during the day for cyclists to stroll through the years of memorabilia on display.
Debbi, a good friend of June's, says "...the situation (not having cyclists stay at the bike house) may change in the future, but right now, June would prefer not to have overnight visitors." Debbi's agreed to keep us posted on the status. When we know more, you'll know more.
In the meantime, keep your eye out for 2010's Trail Angel while you're on the road. Those nominations are open from July 1 until September 30, 2010. Also, check out this poll on crazyguyonabike.com about trail angel experiences. We're keeping an eye on it.
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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Debbi, a good friend of June's, says "...the situation (not having cyclists stay at the bike house) may change in the future, but right now, June would prefer not to have overnight visitors." Debbi's agreed to keep us posted on the status. When we know more, you'll know more.
In the meantime, keep your eye out for 2010's Trail Angel while you're on the road. Those nominations are open from July 1 until September 30, 2010. Also, check out this poll on crazyguyonabike.com about trail angel experiences. We're keeping an eye on it.
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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Building Bike Routes for the U.S. Bicycle Route System
As the coordinator for the U.S. Bicycle Route System, I've come to realize that collaboration is key to getting the work done. Happily, the state agencies I am working with are more than eager to work with cyclists, cycling organizations and trail groups. It's a win-win for everyone; cyclists get to have a hand in choosing the routes and the state and local agencies leverage their work.In order to help the process along, I constantly look for potential resources the will make everyone's role easier. I came across an interesting blog a couple weeks ago and asked Mark Stosberg, a commuter, recreational cyclist and Adventure Cycling member, to give us tips on developing bicycle routes. For those interested in helping their state get on-board with the U.S. Bicycle Route System, you may just want to start close to home.
"If you are like me, you'd like to see the U.S. Bike Route network move forward in your state, but are concerned about how quickly the state government will be able and willing to get the job done.
Based on my experience in bike route planning at the city level in Richmond, Indiana, there is another option besides waiting. We produced 5,000 copies of a city-approved bike route network for about $2,000 -- the cost of printing the maps themselves.
A grassroots group of local experienced cyclists proactively met with city government and independently developed a network of recommended bike routes. This was done without even a formal non-profit status. Multiple community meetings and test-rides vetted and refined the routes. Finally, a final recommendation for routes was presented to the City and approved, and volunteer labor was used to produce the final map, with some help from the City's GIS department.
If you'd like to more about this story, I've posted to USBR forum or you can visit my website as a place to start."
Get involved with the U.S. Bicycle Route System, learn more on our website, become a fan on Facebook, or join in on our discussion forums.
photo by mynameistony77 from the Adventure Cycling Photo Contest on Flickr.
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BUILDING THE U.S. BICYCLE ROUTE SYSTEM (USBRS) is posted by Ginny Sullivan, USBRS coordinator at Adventure Cycling, and features news and updates related to the emerging U.S. Bicycle Route System. The U.S. Bicycle Route System project is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by a task force under the auspices of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Members of the task force include officials and staff from state DOTs, the Federal Highway Administration, and nonprofits like the East Coast Greenway Alliance, and Mississippi River Trail, Inc.
Wend
Wend is dedicated to "Adventure. Inspiration. Travel. Activism." and offers a zesty mix of features and imagery. Plus, their vision includes nurturing a sustainable ethic in adventurers, "As an independent media group, active in both environmental activism and the outdoors, we realize that part of going off the beaten path means making sure the path doesn’t get beaten," proclaims their website. Three cheers for that!
All issues of Wend are now available online for free. And if you're into Facebook, you can check out them out there.
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NEWS, NETWORKING, AND NEW MEDIA is written by Winona Bateman, Adventure Cycling's media director, and highlights cool media (articles, videos, photos, etc.) and meet-ups related to Adventure Cycling and bicycle travel. Writing a story about bicycle travel or Adventure Cycling Association? You can contact Winona via press AT adventurecycling DOT org. Visit our media room or view our news releases.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Celebrate New Sierra Cascades Route: Gatherings in WA and OR
The Adventure Cycling Route Network is already the largest mapped cycling route system in the world and the Sierra Cascades route takes it over 40,000 miles! That's the equivalent of riding around the planet more than one-and-a-half times! (Download an overview of the Sierra Cascades, pdf.)
All of these events are free and open to the public. Bring your cycling friends and family!
SEATTLE
When: Tuesday, April 6, 2010, Refreshments at 5:30 p.m., Presentation at 6:00 p.m.
Where: REI’s Flagship Store in central Seattle.
PORTLAND
When: Wednesday, April 7, Refreshments at 7:00 p.m., Presentation at 7:30 p.m.
Where: REI’s Store in the Pearl District.
EUGENE
When: Thursday, April 8, Refreshments at 7:00 p.m., Presentation at 7:30 p.m.
Where: REI’s Store in central Eugene. 11
When: Tuesday, April 6, 2010, Refreshments at 5:30 p.m., Presentation at 6:00 p.m.
Where: REI’s Flagship Store in central Seattle.
PORTLAND
When: Wednesday, April 7, Refreshments at 7:00 p.m., Presentation at 7:30 p.m.
Where: REI’s Store in the Pearl District.
EUGENE
When: Thursday, April 8, Refreshments at 7:00 p.m., Presentation at 7:30 p.m.
Where: REI’s Store in central Eugene. 11
Please RSVP for any of these events (so we know how many people to expect) by emailing Beth Petersen at bpetersen@adventurecycling.org or 800-755-2453 x211, ideally by April 2nd.
These will be grand celebrations with Adventure Cycling’s friends at REI who provided financial support for route research. For years, REI has generously supported Adventure Cycling’s development of routes such as the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route. REI has provided $30,000 in support of the Sierra Cascades Route.
Join Adventure Cycling staff and members to celebrate with refreshments and fun, engaging presentations on the new route and the latest news on bicycle travel.
MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS is typically posted the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month by Amy Corbin, Membership and Marketing Coordinator. This is a special post to announce these events. Membership Highlights spotlights the various benefits of membership, what we have accomplished thanks to member support, and even interviews with some of our most passionate and dedicated members, both individual and organizational.
Bike Summit Report #1: Online Bike Maps
I’m just back from the 10th annual National Bike Summit and have two reports. I want to start with one subject -- online bike maps -- made prominent by Google’s announcement at the start of the summit that it had finally gone live with its “bike there” mapping service.
First, let me respond to a number of inquiries we’ve received about whether Adventure Cycling’s map data is in Google’s system. Currently, the answer is no. We have talked with Google reps about that possibility and will keep you posted. Luckily, our GPS data for all of our routes is already available for free. In the meantime, I want to salute Google for giving cyclists another tool for finding their way on two wheels -- and I’m curious what you think about their service. They’ve stressed that it’s a beta version and are anxious for feedback.
So what does Google’s move mean for the future of online and digital mapping? It will be interesting to see the impact on a number of services that have popped up in the last few years, such as MapMyRide.com.
For Adventure Cycling, in the foreseeable future, we’ll continue to produce and update our carefully crafted maps on paper, and occasionally in a downloadable format. I’ve talked with many members about digital maps and user devices, and the consensus -- right now -- is that on longer bike trips, there’s no substitute for the unique travel information we provide in a light, durable, battery-free format (aka water-proof, tear-proof paper) -- at a minimum as a back-up when you’re on the road, far from home.
However, we don’t have our head in the sand. About a year ago, we started up a Routes and Mapping Working Group, composed of staff and a half-dozen technology and cartography wonks from around the country. With the group’s help, we’re looking at various user devices (e.g. the iPhone, Garmins, other GPS wayfinders, and more), communication programs (like Twitter), and user-generated map services to figure out how we can utilize them and ensure that we continue to provide traveling cyclists with the best tools and information available.
What do you think? Please share your ideas and experiences with us. Like Google, we are excited for the future – and equally excited to get your ideas.
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JIM SAYER is the executive director of Adventure Cycling Association.
First, let me respond to a number of inquiries we’ve received about whether Adventure Cycling’s map data is in Google’s system. Currently, the answer is no. We have talked with Google reps about that possibility and will keep you posted. Luckily, our GPS data for all of our routes is already available for free. In the meantime, I want to salute Google for giving cyclists another tool for finding their way on two wheels -- and I’m curious what you think about their service. They’ve stressed that it’s a beta version and are anxious for feedback.
So what does Google’s move mean for the future of online and digital mapping? It will be interesting to see the impact on a number of services that have popped up in the last few years, such as MapMyRide.com.
For Adventure Cycling, in the foreseeable future, we’ll continue to produce and update our carefully crafted maps on paper, and occasionally in a downloadable format. I’ve talked with many members about digital maps and user devices, and the consensus -- right now -- is that on longer bike trips, there’s no substitute for the unique travel information we provide in a light, durable, battery-free format (aka water-proof, tear-proof paper) -- at a minimum as a back-up when you’re on the road, far from home.
However, we don’t have our head in the sand. About a year ago, we started up a Routes and Mapping Working Group, composed of staff and a half-dozen technology and cartography wonks from around the country. With the group’s help, we’re looking at various user devices (e.g. the iPhone, Garmins, other GPS wayfinders, and more), communication programs (like Twitter), and user-generated map services to figure out how we can utilize them and ensure that we continue to provide traveling cyclists with the best tools and information available.
What do you think? Please share your ideas and experiences with us. Like Google, we are excited for the future – and equally excited to get your ideas.
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JIM SAYER is the executive director of Adventure Cycling Association.
Monday, March 15, 2010
TransAm TEE
One of the things that makes me want to pedal across the country on the TRANS AM the very, very most is that I would love, absolutely love, to visit all the tiny towns along the way. Have coffee at the diner in Eureka, have some pie in Baker City, enjoy a sunrise in the desert. For me, so much about bicycle touring, well--isn't really about the bike--and that's what this shirt, designed and modeled by our own Greg Siple, portrays so well. It's about all the places in between, and the people you meet and the fun you have and the coffee you drink. Did I already mention coffee?
ASTORIA, CANNON BEACH, NEHALEM, BAY CITY, TILLAMOOK, OCEANSIDE, NESKOWIN, ROSE LODGE, GRAND RONDE, SALEM, MONMOUTH, CORVALLIS, FLORENCE, etc. Join the fun!
photo by Sarah Raz
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SHIPPING NEWS is brought to you by Sarah Raz, Sales/Outreach Specialist.
ASTORIA, CANNON BEACH, NEHALEM, BAY CITY, TILLAMOOK, OCEANSIDE, NESKOWIN, ROSE LODGE, GRAND RONDE, SALEM, MONMOUTH, CORVALLIS, FLORENCE, etc. Join the fun!photo by Sarah Raz
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SHIPPING NEWS is brought to you by Sarah Raz, Sales/Outreach Specialist.
Self-Guided Serendipity
As suggested in this story from the Des Moines Register, self-guided touring can be a beautiful blend of do-it-yourself and letting someone else take care of the details. In late September 2004, my wife Nancy and I toured southern France in this mode, where we were reminded that often it’s the least expected things that are the most memorable.
Our cycling holiday began in Carcossonne in the Languedoc region. Late on our first day, a challenging climb over the Col du Fer à Cheval and quick descent through a rocky gorge delivered us to quiet Fabrezon, where we would spend two nights. At our Mediterranean-flavored accommodation, we had dinner with a sprightly forty-something woman from New Zealand named Jane, who was riding solo and following an itinerary similar to ours.
On day three we bicycled from Fabrezon to Fontjoncouse (“source of the rushes”). After settling into our guesthouse, I set out on a pre-dinner mission to find some wine, but learned the hilltop town was so small that it had no market. So, I attempted to ask a string of locals if they knew where a fellow might procure a bottle of the red. Invariably, I ended the “conversation” by muttering the one full sentence of French I knew: “Zhuh nuh parl pah Frahn-say.” Finally, a fifty-ish man wearing a baseball-style cap understood at least the “wine” part of my request, and he pointed across the street at a warehouse-looking structure.
Somewhat apprehensively, I strolled up to the building and banged on one of its tall metal doors with my fist. “Bonjour,” I said to the petite woman who opened the door. Then, from behind an immense stainless-steel tank and with an unmistakable Irish accent, came: “Is that a Yank I just heard say Bon-zhur?” (And here I thought I spoke at least one word like a native.)
His name was Patrick Neville. A former college professor living in Fontjoncouse, he and his wife Catherine grow grapes and make wine under their Domaine Aonghusa label. I took an instant liking to Pat, and I sensed the feeling was mutual. As a result, the next morning (it was our tour’s designated layover day) found Nancy, Jane, and me meandering up and down the rows of a field outside of town, plucking dark Grenache grapes alongside Patrick and, in from Ireland for the harvest, his sister and a friend. Mid-day we enjoyed a two-hour lunch—a feast, really—at the delightfully warm Neville abode in Fontjoncouse. We ate, laughed, ate some more, and polished off a bottle or two of Pat’s finest.
Back in the fields for the afternoon, I was hoping that some tourists, English or Canadian perhaps, would drive past and stop to snap a photograph of the French field workers, only to be confronted by three very different takes on the English language: Irish, Kiwi, and American.
For the remainder of the tour our fingers were stained purple and smelling faintly of the sulphur that’s applied as a preservative to Patrick’s organically grown grapes. A colorful and scented reminder of a bit of friendship-forging serendipity in the hills of southern France.
I was reminded of this experience last week when I happened across a piece about Pat in the Independent of Ireland. I hope to run into him again some day, and hope that you will, too.
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 42,000 readers worldwide.
Our cycling holiday began in Carcossonne in the Languedoc region. Late on our first day, a challenging climb over the Col du Fer à Cheval and quick descent through a rocky gorge delivered us to quiet Fabrezon, where we would spend two nights. At our Mediterranean-flavored accommodation, we had dinner with a sprightly forty-something woman from New Zealand named Jane, who was riding solo and following an itinerary similar to ours.
On day three we bicycled from Fabrezon to Fontjoncouse (“source of the rushes”). After settling into our guesthouse, I set out on a pre-dinner mission to find some wine, but learned the hilltop town was so small that it had no market. So, I attempted to ask a string of locals if they knew where a fellow might procure a bottle of the red. Invariably, I ended the “conversation” by muttering the one full sentence of French I knew: “Zhuh nuh parl pah Frahn-say.” Finally, a fifty-ish man wearing a baseball-style cap understood at least the “wine” part of my request, and he pointed across the street at a warehouse-looking structure.
Somewhat apprehensively, I strolled up to the building and banged on one of its tall metal doors with my fist. “Bonjour,” I said to the petite woman who opened the door. Then, from behind an immense stainless-steel tank and with an unmistakable Irish accent, came: “Is that a Yank I just heard say Bon-zhur?” (And here I thought I spoke at least one word like a native.)
His name was Patrick Neville. A former college professor living in Fontjoncouse, he and his wife Catherine grow grapes and make wine under their Domaine Aonghusa label. I took an instant liking to Pat, and I sensed the feeling was mutual. As a result, the next morning (it was our tour’s designated layover day) found Nancy, Jane, and me meandering up and down the rows of a field outside of town, plucking dark Grenache grapes alongside Patrick and, in from Ireland for the harvest, his sister and a friend. Mid-day we enjoyed a two-hour lunch—a feast, really—at the delightfully warm Neville abode in Fontjoncouse. We ate, laughed, ate some more, and polished off a bottle or two of Pat’s finest.
Back in the fields for the afternoon, I was hoping that some tourists, English or Canadian perhaps, would drive past and stop to snap a photograph of the French field workers, only to be confronted by three very different takes on the English language: Irish, Kiwi, and American.
For the remainder of the tour our fingers were stained purple and smelling faintly of the sulphur that’s applied as a preservative to Patrick’s organically grown grapes. A colorful and scented reminder of a bit of friendship-forging serendipity in the hills of southern France.
I was reminded of this experience last week when I happened across a piece about Pat in the Independent of Ireland. I hope to run into him again some day, and hope that you will, too.
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 42,000 readers worldwide.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Spring Bicycling Apparel
Spring can be a tricky season to prepare for as far as clothing is concerned. It can fluctuate quite a bit, and mentally, I always find myself thinking that I can get away with less than I should. To help make sure that you're more prepared than I am, here are some articles of clothing that are ideal for spring, and will also come in handy for early morning summer rides, and fall conditions.
1. Arm, Leg, and Knee Warmers: These are really nice because they can easily be shed if the weather warms up during your ride, and they pack down very well. Different brands use different mixes of materials, and I wouldn't say that one is particularly better than the other. It all comes down to preference. Some are made of wool, while others use a spandex material with varying amounts of fleece insulation. With the full leg warmers, I would suggest finding something with a zipper cuff, which makes it very easy to pull them off and on over your shoes.
2. Rain Gear: Nothing will send chills through your body faster than a cold rain or drizzle, making rain gear a must have. We have always been big fans of Showers Pass, which are made in one of the wettest cities in the northwest, Portland, Oregon. Whatever you use to stay dry, it's always a bonus if you can find a bright colored rain jacket to keep you visible on the dreary roads.
3. Shoe Covers: You can leave the insulated booties at home, but you will still want an extra layer on your feet. Much like the arm, leg, and knee warmers, these can easily be shed when the weather warms up, and will pack down nicely. They can be found as waterproof shells, or with a tightly woven synthetic material.
4. Head Gear: Aside from your helmet, it's a good idea to have a lightweight headband, or cycling cap to keep your ears warms, and prevent too much heat from escaping.
5. Gloves: Nothing too fancy needed here. I've seen people use all sorts of different styles of light gloves for spring touring, from cycling specific full-fingered gloves, to waterproof kayaking gloves, all the way to gardening gloves with a waterproof coating. If not for comfort, you want to make sure your hands stay warm to hang onto your dexterity.
Like most things with cycling, your spring apparel will be fine tuned to your specific region by a process of trial and error. The more you ride, the better feel you will get for what you need to have in order to stay warm when transitioning from one season to another.
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TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
1. Arm, Leg, and Knee Warmers: These are really nice because they can easily be shed if the weather warms up during your ride, and they pack down very well. Different brands use different mixes of materials, and I wouldn't say that one is particularly better than the other. It all comes down to preference. Some are made of wool, while others use a spandex material with varying amounts of fleece insulation. With the full leg warmers, I would suggest finding something with a zipper cuff, which makes it very easy to pull them off and on over your shoes.
2. Rain Gear: Nothing will send chills through your body faster than a cold rain or drizzle, making rain gear a must have. We have always been big fans of Showers Pass, which are made in one of the wettest cities in the northwest, Portland, Oregon. Whatever you use to stay dry, it's always a bonus if you can find a bright colored rain jacket to keep you visible on the dreary roads.
3. Shoe Covers: You can leave the insulated booties at home, but you will still want an extra layer on your feet. Much like the arm, leg, and knee warmers, these can easily be shed when the weather warms up, and will pack down nicely. They can be found as waterproof shells, or with a tightly woven synthetic material.
4. Head Gear: Aside from your helmet, it's a good idea to have a lightweight headband, or cycling cap to keep your ears warms, and prevent too much heat from escaping.
5. Gloves: Nothing too fancy needed here. I've seen people use all sorts of different styles of light gloves for spring touring, from cycling specific full-fingered gloves, to waterproof kayaking gloves, all the way to gardening gloves with a waterproof coating. If not for comfort, you want to make sure your hands stay warm to hang onto your dexterity.
Like most things with cycling, your spring apparel will be fine tuned to your specific region by a process of trial and error. The more you ride, the better feel you will get for what you need to have in order to stay warm when transitioning from one season to another.
--
TOURING GEAR AND TIPS is written by Joshua Tack of Adventure Cycling's member services department. It appears weekly, highlighting technical aspects of bicycle touring and advice to help better prepare you for the journey ahead.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Dear Bob--A Journey Through the Deep South--An Introduction
As much as I love bicycles and cycling, it is the connections with people on my travels that I treasure most.
In 2001 Kat and I cycled through the Deep South. Our 2,000 mile journey aired as commentaries on public radio station KUOW in Seattle. The commentaries were written in the form of letters to my friend Bob Nadir.
I'd known Bob for many years. We shared a love for theater, running, and really, really hot Thai soup. In 1998 Bob contracted ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). When Bob's condition reached the point that he could no longer turn the pages in the books he was reading, I offered to come by his house and read for him.
I have often kept my travel journals in the form of letters written to my brother. For this journey, I asked Bob if I could write to him. Days before we left I asked Bob if he would mind if I shared those letters with the listeners of KUOW.
Bob and I read thirteen books together before ALS ended his life. I have traveled all over the world, but I have never come close to exhibiting the courage and compassion of Bob Nadir. Robert Jamieson of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer wrote three columns about Bob. They are a touching tribute to an amazing man.
ALS Can't Break Friends Unspoken Bond
Win Puts M's Closer to Wish of a Special Fan
A Passion For Life is Celebrated in Death
In the coming weeks I'll post those on air letters and the journey they follow.
Next week:
Who's Vera: What does the Southeastern United States have in common with a Ford Taurus?
photo (Bob and Willie, Seattle, 2001) by Willie Weir
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SIGHTS AND SOUNDS appears on Friday afternoons. Willie Weir is a columnist for Adventure Cyclist magazine. His latest book Travels with Willie: Adventure Cyclist compiles his favorite writings over the last twelve years. He lives in Seattle with his wife Kat. You can read about their local adventures and life without a car at www.yellowtentadventures.com.
Bright-eyed and Bushy-tailed
A 30-year Adventure Cycling Association member and donor, Bill Grun (pictured above), replied to an email donation reminder I sent last week.
Bill writes: "Good news (about the new Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route and the updated routes and maps at Adventure Cycling Association). I will be 90 next month and have a hard time waiting for warmer weather. I need 50 degrees to bike. Hope to do 1,000 miles again this summer. Mostly I bike alone since folks my age feel that they are too old to bike."
Wow. What a great email to receive. That got me digging a little bit. What I found was a man with a amazing zest for life.
Bill got his first bike when he was 13-years-old and he used it to sell newspapers. "I lived on my bike," Grun said in an AARP article. And why does he continue to bike when most of the people his age are sitting in rocking chairs? "I like bicycling because you can see things you would never, ever see in a car. On a bike, you have time to observe. When you're in a car you go so fast and you say, "There's a field." But when you're on a bike, you say, "Oh, there's a field. And there's a goldenrod. And there's a thistle. And OH! there's a meadow lark. Around every turn there's another surprise."
That's certainly one of the major reasons I travel by bicycle. I need to be closer to the ground, closer to the amazing spectacle that mother nature provides for us -- available to us only if we slow down long enough to absorb the beauty and serenity of our natural environment.
Does he see himself as a role model? In a way..... "In reflection, ... I hope I'm a role model for a lot of people in a lot of ways. Not just biking. I'm fairly bright-eyed and bushy tailed. Life to me is pretty neat, and I've gotten an awful lot out of it," Bill added in the same AARP article.
Everything I read about Bill reflected this bright-eyed, bushy-tailed approach to life. For instance, he participated on the Annual Greenway Sojourn ride on the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal National Historic Towpath trail. Bill was the oldest on the trip, and an article in the The Whistle Stop (a community newsletter) said "Bill came up the towpath with a smile on his face and a multitude of stories to tell. With many trips like this as experience, fit as any other rider, and knowledgeable on both history and ecology matters, Bill was already missed as he peddled up the path."
Pepper Scotto, who took the picture of Bill above, says that on the towpath trip, "Bill was an absolute wonder on that sojourn through our community -- and we are still talking about him down on the towpath with passers-by."
That kind of positive attitude and zest for life is inspiring. Well, happy 90th birthday, Bill, and I hope we cross paths on a bicycle this summer.
photo by Pepper Scotto
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BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the second and fourth Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.
Bill writes: "Good news (about the new Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route and the updated routes and maps at Adventure Cycling Association). I will be 90 next month and have a hard time waiting for warmer weather. I need 50 degrees to bike. Hope to do 1,000 miles again this summer. Mostly I bike alone since folks my age feel that they are too old to bike."
Wow. What a great email to receive. That got me digging a little bit. What I found was a man with a amazing zest for life.
Bill got his first bike when he was 13-years-old and he used it to sell newspapers. "I lived on my bike," Grun said in an AARP article. And why does he continue to bike when most of the people his age are sitting in rocking chairs? "I like bicycling because you can see things you would never, ever see in a car. On a bike, you have time to observe. When you're in a car you go so fast and you say, "There's a field." But when you're on a bike, you say, "Oh, there's a field. And there's a goldenrod. And there's a thistle. And OH! there's a meadow lark. Around every turn there's another surprise."
That's certainly one of the major reasons I travel by bicycle. I need to be closer to the ground, closer to the amazing spectacle that mother nature provides for us -- available to us only if we slow down long enough to absorb the beauty and serenity of our natural environment.
Does he see himself as a role model? In a way..... "In reflection, ... I hope I'm a role model for a lot of people in a lot of ways. Not just biking. I'm fairly bright-eyed and bushy tailed. Life to me is pretty neat, and I've gotten an awful lot out of it," Bill added in the same AARP article.
Everything I read about Bill reflected this bright-eyed, bushy-tailed approach to life. For instance, he participated on the Annual Greenway Sojourn ride on the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal National Historic Towpath trail. Bill was the oldest on the trip, and an article in the The Whistle Stop (a community newsletter) said "Bill came up the towpath with a smile on his face and a multitude of stories to tell. With many trips like this as experience, fit as any other rider, and knowledgeable on both history and ecology matters, Bill was already missed as he peddled up the path."
Pepper Scotto, who took the picture of Bill above, says that on the towpath trip, "Bill was an absolute wonder on that sojourn through our community -- and we are still talking about him down on the towpath with passers-by."
That kind of positive attitude and zest for life is inspiring. Well, happy 90th birthday, Bill, and I hope we cross paths on a bicycle this summer.
photo by Pepper Scotto
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BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the second and fourth Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Madison Regional Meeting Tonight!
As I mentioned back in January, I'm in Madison, Wisconsin this week for a business trip. There are four parts involved and I'm pretty excited about each of them.
Tonight is a Regional Gathering for members and non-members to learn more about bicycle travel, presented in conjunction with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin (BFW). We'll be at the Central Branch of the Madison Library at 6:30. Of course, since I am a cartographer at Adventure Cycling, there will be an emphasis on our maps. After all, it is what I know best.
Tomorrow morning will be a coffee meeting to discuss the U.S. Bicycle Route System with staff from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and BFW.
This will be followed by a lunch presentation to MACDAD (Madison Area Cartographic Design and Dissemination), a group of students at the University of Wisconsin who are interested in cartography.
And finally, the reason that brought me to Madison in the first place, a spring board meeting for the North American Cartographic Society (NACIS). This is my first, full length board meeting with NACIS and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to serve the cartographic community.
It is going to be a very full three days. If the weather is as nice as predicted, hopefully I'll be able to squeeze in a bike ride on Thursday in between putting the final touches on my presentations.
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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Tonight is a Regional Gathering for members and non-members to learn more about bicycle travel, presented in conjunction with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin (BFW). We'll be at the Central Branch of the Madison Library at 6:30. Of course, since I am a cartographer at Adventure Cycling, there will be an emphasis on our maps. After all, it is what I know best.
Tomorrow morning will be a coffee meeting to discuss the U.S. Bicycle Route System with staff from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and BFW.
This will be followed by a lunch presentation to MACDAD (Madison Area Cartographic Design and Dissemination), a group of students at the University of Wisconsin who are interested in cartography.
And finally, the reason that brought me to Madison in the first place, a spring board meeting for the North American Cartographic Society (NACIS). This is my first, full length board meeting with NACIS and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to serve the cartographic community.
It is going to be a very full three days. If the weather is as nice as predicted, hopefully I'll be able to squeeze in a bike ride on Thursday in between putting the final touches on my presentations.
--
GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The TransAm Experience
While I was working with the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation on identifying aspects of the TransAmerica Bicycle Route that might need future improvements, I was introduced to Virginia Blaine from the Parkland Cyclists out of Farmington, Missouri. Virginia told me about a bike tour that they are hosting called the "TransAmerica Bicycle Trail Experience" on April 24 -25, 2010.
The new annual ride will promote a "Share the Road" campaign while covering 80+ miles over two days from Johnson's Shut Ins State Park to Chester, Illinois, all along the TransAm Trail, or as the Parkland Cyclist's like to call it, "the granddaddy of all bicycle routes." The organizers tell me that there will be a BBQ dinner kick-off, pancake and sausage breakfast, SAG support on both days, and transportation to and from the start/finish.
As you may already know, Farmington is one of the most welcoming communities along the TransAm. You can read more about their incredible hospitality in Jenn Milyko's GeoPoints Bulletin. Speaking of which, I hear there's room still available those nights at the TranAmerica Trail Cyclers Inn (aka Al's Place) -- but I'm sure not for long!
So take advantage of one of the most enjoyable sections of the TransAm and celebrate a piece of this historic and iconic Adventure Cycling route along with a host of other enthusiastic cyclists.
You can learn more about the ride at Parkland Cyclists website under the Calendar section. Registration details will be posted soon.
photo by John Clifford Fredericks from the Adventure Cycling photo contest on Flickr.
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CONNECTIONS is posted twice a month by Ginny Sullivan, Adventure Cycling's special projects director and features the cultural, historical, geographical, and human connections created through bike travel. Find out about our award-winning Underground Railroad Bicycle Route.
Ride the Divide
I've written much about my armchair obsession with the races on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. I don't know that I'm destined to hurtle myself from Banff to Mexico, but who knows. Until then, I'm happy to follow the racers as they face all manner of physical and mental challenges whilst traveling at top speeds, self-contained, alone, down the spine of the Rockies.
I just got word that Ride the Divide, Mike Dion's much anticipated documentary about a few of these intrepid souls will premiere in Vail on April 2, 2010. The filmmaker is also working on a string of showings in towns along the Great Divide Route that will parallel this year's Tour Divide race, starting with a screening on June 10 in Banff (the Tour Divide starts there on June 11). Watch the screenings page for more dates and times.
This is the kind of grueling, inspiring, life changing endurance challenge that most of us wish we had the courage to undertake, but very few of us ever will. Watch the trailer.
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NEWS, NETWORKING, AND NEW MEDIA is written by Winona Bateman, Adventure Cycling's media director, and highlights cool media (articles, videos, photos, etc.) and meet-ups related to Adventure Cycling and bicycle travel. Writing a story about bicycle travel or Adventure Cycling Association? You can contact Winona via press AT adventurecycling DOT org. Visit our media room or view our news releases.
I just got word that Ride the Divide, Mike Dion's much anticipated documentary about a few of these intrepid souls will premiere in Vail on April 2, 2010. The filmmaker is also working on a string of showings in towns along the Great Divide Route that will parallel this year's Tour Divide race, starting with a screening on June 10 in Banff (the Tour Divide starts there on June 11). Watch the screenings page for more dates and times.
This is the kind of grueling, inspiring, life changing endurance challenge that most of us wish we had the courage to undertake, but very few of us ever will. Watch the trailer.
--
NEWS, NETWORKING, AND NEW MEDIA is written by Winona Bateman, Adventure Cycling's media director, and highlights cool media (articles, videos, photos, etc.) and meet-ups related to Adventure Cycling and bicycle travel. Writing a story about bicycle travel or Adventure Cycling Association? You can contact Winona via press AT adventurecycling DOT org. Visit our media room or view our news releases.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Sprockets Amidst the Spuds
High-end custom bicycles are not the first thing you would think of if you had the chance to motor down Main Street in Ashton, Idaho. No, that would more likely be agriculture, what with the town’s grain silos, railroad yard, and signs boasting of its being the “World’s Largest Seed Potato Producing Area.”But a couple of miles north of town on the far side of the Henrys Fork bridge, tucked away a subdivision high on Ashton Hill (aka the southwestern edge of the Yellowstone Caldera), the enterprise known as Kelson Custom Cycles occupies a shop adjacent to the home of Brian and Heather Williams. Kelson is a blended word deriving from parts of the names of the couple’s two sons, Kelton and Carson.
Brian’s shop is only about 50 miles north of where I live, so I took the opportunity late last summer to pay him a visit. I learned that he ran a biking/snowboarding/mountaineering shop in nearby Rexburg for fifteen years, before deciding it was time to get out of the hectic retail business and into the business of what he truly enjoyed: making bicycles. After taking an intensive two-week course at the United Bicycle Institute in Ashland, Oregon, in 2002, he really “fell in love” with the process, he told me, and soon thereafter apprenticed with a custom frame maker working in titanium.“What I’m doing now I enjoy a lot more than selling Huffys to Ricks College kids,” Brian said. (Ricks College is now known as BYU Idaho.) He added that his goal for 2010 is to market more aggressively. “Up until now, it’s been strictly word-of-mouth advertising. Now we want to grow, but we’ll continue selling direct to the customer, on an individual basis, rather than through a distributor.”
Titanium road bikes are what Kelson is best known for, but Brian can build just about anything a client wants — mountain bike, cyclocross bike, touring bike … “I strive to be a true custom builder,” he said. “I’ve fit, designed [in BikeCAD], and built bikes for clients from Boise to Boston.”Brian uses the best titanium available, that from Wah Chang in Oregon, he said. “Titanium is one of the more abundant elements, but it’s hard to extract from the earth. It reacts with oxygen, so it has to be cold-worked, in an inert environment, in its molten state.” He also builds steel frames, and recently has been working to perfect a proprietary process of building frames of carbon fiber. By using an aerospace grade carbon-fiber wrap, he said, he has managed to build an extremely resilient frame weighing less than two pounds.
Lulu, my beautiful old low-tech Lab, loved the cool floor of Brian's shop on that hot summer day.photos by Michael McCoy
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BIKING WITHOUT BORDERS is posted every Monday by Michael McCoy, Adventure Cycling’s field editor, and highlights a little bit of this or a little bit of that — just about anything, as long as it’s related to traveling by bicycle. Mac also compiles the organization's twice-monthly e-newsletter Bike Bits, which goes free-of-charge to more than 40,000 readers worldwide.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Geo-Artisans
Monday, March 1st was a special day in our Missoula headquarters because our Routes & Mapping crew sent the first section of our new Sierra Cascades cycling map to the printer. (Download an overview of the new route, PDF format.)I note this because you probably won't hear about it from our cartographers, who are personally modest but professionally outstanding. In particular, I want to salute their extraordinary work ethic; over the last few months, they have been working many extra hours to ensure that the Sierra Cascades maps are available to bike adventurers in April, when the touring season starts to heat up (at least in the northern hemisphere).
What's impressive to watch is how our map-makers labor over every detail, treating each map like a jewel with thousands of facets. If you've ever used our maps, you know the results of that craftsmanship. Our cartographers really are artisans of the highest order.
So let me introduce them right now as they enter the Sierra Cascades home stretch: Carla Majernik (our remarkable Routes & Mapping director and a Bikecentennial rider); Jenn Milyko (also the author of our popular GeoPoints Bulletin and a board member of NACIS, North America's leading cartography non-profit association); Kevin McManigal (our Geographic Information System [GIS] whiz and chief auteur of the first Adventure Cycling route created with GIS software); and Casey Greene (a gifted graphic artist as well, who created the illustration for the U.S. Bicycle Route System and the attractive new Sierra Cascades map cover).
You can learn more about these terrific people at our staff web page or see them on a short video we created last year to request our members' support for their mapping magic.
Please join me in thanking some of the best cycling cartographers anywhere. With their help, Adventure Cycling's route network is about to surpass the 40,000 mile mark -- to our knowledge, the largest bike-friendly route system on the planet!
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JIM SAYER is the executive director of Adventure Cycling Association.
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