Dana, Blake, Dave, and I signed up to participate in the Seattle Century yesterday (Sunday), choosing the half century (50 mile) option. We were worried about Blake's back last week and wondered if Blana would be able to participate. Luckily Blake was okay after a 10 mile ride on Saturday, so Dave and I got some company. We met at my place at 8:00 a.m. The weather wasn't looking good - it rained the night before, was cool and overcast, and it still looked like it might rain. With hopes of sun later in the day, we set out for Magnuson Park, the start of the century.
I had my first adventure on the way to the starting point - slipping when we stopped quickly and almost wiping out (luckily I was spared). We checked in relatively late and started biking about 9:10 a.m. The route went clockwise around Lake Washington, so we started going north on the Burke Gilman Trail towards Bothell. The first rest stop was at Bothell Landing (a little over 10 miles from Magnuson), and we made good time. The first stop had limited amenities, but we enjoyed a few munchies and headed out. The next stop was at Marymoor Park (again, a little over 10 miles). It felt like we made even better time on this stretch. Marymoor had a substantial rest stop with fried chicken (who provides that?), REI bike maintenance assistance, etc. Blana enjoyed some fried chicken - Dave and I (the vegetarians) enjoyed some fruit bars.
The next stretch was from Marymoor to Mercer Island. I had never biked the portion from Marymoor to Factoria. This seemed like a long stretch to us, and somewhere along the way we examined the guide and realized that the next stop was over 17 miles away (i.e. not the "every 12 miles" they indicated), and more importantly that the course was more than 58 miles rather than 50. Shortly after heading out from Marymoor Dave realized he didn't have his gloves and sprinted back to get them. Dana, Blake, and I continued on West Lake Sammamish at a leisurely pace. A few miles (and small hills) later Dave caught up to his, with his gloves (yay). We regrouped just before the largest elevation gain of the course. There was a climb with cut backs up to I-90, where we then walked our bikes across an overpass bridge. From there we were in Bellevue and continued to climb up Newport Way. Then we started our decent down winding roads into Factoria. From here we crossed next to I-90 again, and went through the south end of the Mercer Slough. Then we picked up the I-90 bike trail for the short section from Bellevue to Mercer Island. Once in Mercer Island there are a few rolling hills before Luther Burbank Park, the site of the next rest stop. I was feeling good and cruising along in the front until my second incident of the ride. I was descending a hill and going pretty fast when a bee flew into my face. It got caught because of the speed, my helmet, and glasses, and was trying to get out as I was trying to brush him away. I got stung on the side of the head near my eye. In the process I had abandoned steering, and ran up into some ivy on the side of the path. Luckily I refocused and managed not to fall. Dave was right behind me and was obviously concerned to see me veering wildly all over the path. I was glad that he managed to remain calm and look for the stinger while I was crying on the side of the road. Blana came along right behind us and discovered this concerning situation. After stressing out for a few minutes, we continued a mile or two to Luther Burbank Park. I found some first aid supplies and was able to take a Benadryl and use an insect sting wipe. These helped a lot and I was able to continue with the ride.
After enjoying some strawberry shortcake on Mercer Island, we crossed the I-90 bridge. This was my second time across (headed in the opposite direction from last time) and Dave's first time. The bridge seems to be longer than you think. I feel like everyone powers across because you don't want to be hanging out in the middle of the bridge. It's definitely an adrenaline rush getting up the hill to the Seattle side. Then there is an incredibly steep hill up to Lake Washington Boulevard. Dave and I saw this short, but steep hill and stopped. Blana decided to keep going (though they were hating life while they did it). Quote Dave later on in the day, this is the point where he was "done" with the event. And none of us blame him since he was definitely at 50 miles by this point. We made our way along the Lake to Lake trail towards the UW, cursing every rolling hill in our path. Blana had a flat tire and we stopped to put in more air. It was pretty painful to finish the last few miles since we had biked along these to go to the park in the morning and would have to retrace our steps to go home.
At the finish they had a catered dinner and music. It was very fancy! Dave and I couldn't figure out where Dana and Blake went, and discovered later that their tire went flat again and they had to walk the last half mile. Still, we enjoyed salmon and chicken (Dana and Blake did!), salad, pasta, rolls, asparagus (Blake and Dave did!), brownies, etc. Very delicious and much needed for raising our blood sugar. After hanging out for a bit we went to change the tube in Blana's tire. I wanted to watch/help Blake to learn how. Blake successfully changed the tire and we started home, slowly but surely. By the time we reached the U Village their tire was flat again. We didn't want to damage their rim, so we walked up to 20th and 62nd. After trying to re-inflate the tire with no success, we walked the rest of the way. I don't think any of us had a problem with that since our butts were very sore!
We cleaned up a bit and went to Wallingford in search of protein and ice cream. First we went to Murphy's for dinner, then to Molly Moon for dessert. It was all very delicious! On our way back we stopped at Bri/Danielle/Erin's for a game of Clue. Those of us that biked were operating on about 2 brain cells, so we didn't do very well. Then it was time for sleeping!
I was thinking of biking to work this morning to get myself on a bike the day after a long ride. I wanted to assess my soreness in the morning. I actually felt okay and was suited up ready to leave when I decided to put more air in my tires. The top nozzle of the front tire's valve broke off. I wasn't sure if it would still work, so I tried inflating it. When I took off the pump all the air rushed out. So, I need a new tube. I didn't have time to address that this morning, so no biking for me. I figure the universe was telling me to take some rest! I'm going to go home and try to change my tube, since I got some practice with Blana's yesterday.
I'm hoping to bike for a few minutes tonight (just to be in the saddle) and to bike to work on Thursday and Friday (sorry Erin!). Dave and I will be out of town this weekend, but maybe we'll get a chance to rent some bikes. And there will definitely be more biking in August. Less than two months to go!
I'm on track with training and feeling stronger and more confident. I still get nervous about being good enough, doing this by myself, all those things. I know this will be an inspiring and character-building experience, and I would still say my excitement outweighs my fears. Dave has been so amazing reassuring me whenever I'm worried, supporting me on all rides and joining me on many, and generally helping me prepare mentally and physically for this adventure. I feel truly lucky to have other friends and family - like my parents, Dana, Blake, Brianne, Danielle, Erin, and so many others help me train. Thanks everyone!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Bike servicing, etc.
I finally got around to making my appointment to get my bike serviced. I'm a horrible human being and haven't serviced my bike since I bought it a little over a year ago. I told the guy at REI I was horrible when asking what service I needed. Luckily I am now set with an appointment on August 4, and I'm looking forward to seeing how well my bike works after that!
REI is also able to package and ship my bike, and I trust their work. It's good to have another thing figured out! I just have to get in touch with the bike shop in New York and find out when they need to receive my bike.
Biking has been light (i.e. not happening) since I was busy with Kendra's wedding (which was beautiful), but I hope to get in a ride on Friday and maybe on Saturday before the Seattle Century on Sunday. Dave and I are doing the half century and may be joined by Blana and my dad and Cathy depending on how they are feeling. I actually feel really glad to have had a little break - I needed a mental and physical rest.
I'm still on target with my training, just need to keep up with the total mileage. I expect to get in some good rides while Dave is out of town (what else am I going to do?). I might have to find a bike when I'm in Hawaii!
REI is also able to package and ship my bike, and I trust their work. It's good to have another thing figured out! I just have to get in touch with the bike shop in New York and find out when they need to receive my bike.
Biking has been light (i.e. not happening) since I was busy with Kendra's wedding (which was beautiful), but I hope to get in a ride on Friday and maybe on Saturday before the Seattle Century on Sunday. Dave and I are doing the half century and may be joined by Blana and my dad and Cathy depending on how they are feeling. I actually feel really glad to have had a little break - I needed a mental and physical rest.
I'm still on target with my training, just need to keep up with the total mileage. I expect to get in some good rides while Dave is out of town (what else am I going to do?). I might have to find a bike when I'm in Hawaii!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
My first fall :(
Erin and I biked to work together for the first time today. All was going well. I got out of the house on time, we got to the corner where we were meeting at the exact same time, the weather was lovely. And most of the ride went this way.
Then Erin went around a corner and I followed her, though I usually go up a different way. I went to get on the sidewalk and the edge was higher than normal. I thought it would be okay, but my tire stuck and I fell over onto the sidewalk. Luckily traffic was stopped (so that they could stare at me and think I was a freak). I knocked my chain off (again), but otherwise felt fine. I brushed off the dirt and Erin and I finished riding in. Luckily we were already at Seattle Center and not far from the park.
Currently my ankle is a little sore. I've been icing it and took ibuprofen (thanks to Dave's concern/medical advice). I also have a bruise on my other leg and more grease on my hand - adding to the grease on my leg that hasn't washed off yet.
I guess it's good for me since they say you are sure to fall when you get clips (note that I still have cages on now). I'll be more prepared. Sigh.
Dave is going to help me install some more new equipment tonight (seat, clips). I'm giving my body a little break this week in the interest of being bruise and grease free for Kendra's wedding. I also have a serious lack of time...
I do think it's time to schedule a bike tune up, though!
Then Erin went around a corner and I followed her, though I usually go up a different way. I went to get on the sidewalk and the edge was higher than normal. I thought it would be okay, but my tire stuck and I fell over onto the sidewalk. Luckily traffic was stopped (so that they could stare at me and think I was a freak). I knocked my chain off (again), but otherwise felt fine. I brushed off the dirt and Erin and I finished riding in. Luckily we were already at Seattle Center and not far from the park.
Currently my ankle is a little sore. I've been icing it and took ibuprofen (thanks to Dave's concern/medical advice). I also have a bruise on my other leg and more grease on my hand - adding to the grease on my leg that hasn't washed off yet.
I guess it's good for me since they say you are sure to fall when you get clips (note that I still have cages on now). I'll be more prepared. Sigh.
Dave is going to help me install some more new equipment tonight (seat, clips). I'm giving my body a little break this week in the interest of being bruise and grease free for Kendra's wedding. I also have a serious lack of time...
I do think it's time to schedule a bike tune up, though!
Issaquah Adventure!
I was off work on Monday (yesterday) after working on Friday night and Saturday. I decided this was the perfect opportunity for riding 30 miles 2 days in a row (where I should be at on training). Dave and I have also been talking about me riding out to his work for a while.
I had no idea how long it would take me to ride from Ravenna to Issaquah across the I-90 bridge, so I planned to leave at 2 p.m. (which naturally turned into 2:15 p.m.). I went down to the Burke Gilman, across the Montlake Bridge, and connected to the Lake Washington Loop Trail (goes along Lake Washington Boulevard to Seward Park). At this point I was in new biking territory. I had never ridden any of the route.
The Lake Washington Loop Trail has a lot of turns - and a lot of signs. It goes through residential neighborhoods (including near Debe and Robbie's house!), through winding roads, up and down hills. The ride was beautiful. I could see Lake Washington, Mt. Rainier, and I-90 as I approached it. There were a few places where I was really hoping I correctly interpreted the signs/my notes on directions. Luckily I did, and found myself at the I-90 outlook.
This is where you get on the bike trail across I-90. For those not familiar, there is a separated bike lane on the far left side of the I-90 bridge with a large barrier to separate you from traffic. I wanted to be ready to power across the bridge, so I stopped for a minute at the outlook (text messaging Dave so he would know where I was). Then I went for it. Being on the bridge was like being in a wind tunnel, but it was completely exhilarating! It's actually a pretty long bridge, and it's somewhat difficult to judge your distance out there. But, I pedaled hard and made it across to Mercer Island with no problem.
I stopped at a park to text Dave that I was safely across, and my chain popped off for the first time. I was able to fix it, but this started my day being covered in grease. The chain came off again in another couple miles when I shifted at an inopportune time. I kept rubbing my leg on the chain and as a result still have grease on my right calf today.
Getting into Bellevue was easier than I thought, and it was fun to go through the Mercer Slough (where I used to teach environmental education). I got confused when I reached 118th and missed the trail head for the I-90 trail. I went a couple miles out of my way by going the wrong direction and turning around. Eventually I found the trail, which dumped me out in Factoria. I had to ride up a hill in Factoria next to I-90. This was the first time I really started feeling tired in my legs. I was able to push through it, and got my energy back shortly.
After cutting through a neighborhood, I reached Newport which took me down a hill towards Issaquah. I actually went a different way than my directions, and cut down over I-90 to a roundabout. I was completely scared of being on my bike in a roundabout and veered to the right up a hill. Luckily this ended up being West Lake Sammamish and took me towards town. I kept having to stop and check my map, but eventually made it to the street Dave's office is on. I rode right past it and had to come back (I am not directionally inclined), but I got there.
When Dave found me I had salt from dried on sweat flaking off my face, grease all over (including a little on my face!), and I was generally a mess. But, I made it in one piece and good spirits. I was able to get cleaned up and do some reading before trivia. With map reading stops and short breaks I made it in 3 hours. I think I could do it in 2.5 if not for the misdirection. Not bad!
I had no idea how long it would take me to ride from Ravenna to Issaquah across the I-90 bridge, so I planned to leave at 2 p.m. (which naturally turned into 2:15 p.m.). I went down to the Burke Gilman, across the Montlake Bridge, and connected to the Lake Washington Loop Trail (goes along Lake Washington Boulevard to Seward Park). At this point I was in new biking territory. I had never ridden any of the route.
The Lake Washington Loop Trail has a lot of turns - and a lot of signs. It goes through residential neighborhoods (including near Debe and Robbie's house!), through winding roads, up and down hills. The ride was beautiful. I could see Lake Washington, Mt. Rainier, and I-90 as I approached it. There were a few places where I was really hoping I correctly interpreted the signs/my notes on directions. Luckily I did, and found myself at the I-90 outlook.
This is where you get on the bike trail across I-90. For those not familiar, there is a separated bike lane on the far left side of the I-90 bridge with a large barrier to separate you from traffic. I wanted to be ready to power across the bridge, so I stopped for a minute at the outlook (text messaging Dave so he would know where I was). Then I went for it. Being on the bridge was like being in a wind tunnel, but it was completely exhilarating! It's actually a pretty long bridge, and it's somewhat difficult to judge your distance out there. But, I pedaled hard and made it across to Mercer Island with no problem.
I stopped at a park to text Dave that I was safely across, and my chain popped off for the first time. I was able to fix it, but this started my day being covered in grease. The chain came off again in another couple miles when I shifted at an inopportune time. I kept rubbing my leg on the chain and as a result still have grease on my right calf today.
Getting into Bellevue was easier than I thought, and it was fun to go through the Mercer Slough (where I used to teach environmental education). I got confused when I reached 118th and missed the trail head for the I-90 trail. I went a couple miles out of my way by going the wrong direction and turning around. Eventually I found the trail, which dumped me out in Factoria. I had to ride up a hill in Factoria next to I-90. This was the first time I really started feeling tired in my legs. I was able to push through it, and got my energy back shortly.
After cutting through a neighborhood, I reached Newport which took me down a hill towards Issaquah. I actually went a different way than my directions, and cut down over I-90 to a roundabout. I was completely scared of being on my bike in a roundabout and veered to the right up a hill. Luckily this ended up being West Lake Sammamish and took me towards town. I kept having to stop and check my map, but eventually made it to the street Dave's office is on. I rode right past it and had to come back (I am not directionally inclined), but I got there.
When Dave found me I had salt from dried on sweat flaking off my face, grease all over (including a little on my face!), and I was generally a mess. But, I made it in one piece and good spirits. I was able to get cleaned up and do some reading before trivia. With map reading stops and short breaks I made it in 3 hours. I think I could do it in 2.5 if not for the misdirection. Not bad!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Sunday was great! The girls came over for brunch (yum) and then Dave and Blake joined us for a ride to Bothell. Blake and Dana rode on their tandem and Brianne, Danielle, Dave, and I joined them on our singles.We got down to the Burke-Gilman without any problems (Danielle was very brave on the street!). Th weather was perfect - sunny, but not too hot. We had a nice, relaxing ride. At one point Dave decided to sprint, and I thought it would be a good idea to try and catch him. Then I got stuck behind slower riders and couldn't get through for a minute. I wasn't too far back, though! :)
It was nice to reach Bothell Landing. Danielle enjoyed the grass and a chance to get some water. Hehehe. We debated where to get ice cream and then Blake stopped holding out on us and let us know that there was a Baskin Robbins a few blocks away. So, we took a little walk for a sweet treat.
When we got back Dave and I wanted to try Blake and Dana's tandem. They showed us how to have the person in front (Dave) straddle and hold up the bike while the person in back (Jackie) climbs on. I put my feet in the cages and turned the pedals to start. Then Dave put in one foot and I provided power while Dave kicked off. If you've never noticed, the pedals on a tandem move together. That means you have to pedal in sync. I think we did pretty well. We rode up a little ways and then came back. We enjoyed it!
Then Blake and Dana left (they had parked in Bothell and rode to Ravenna in the morning to avoid the 520 bridge closure). Brianne, Danielle, Dave, and I headed back on the Burke. We had fun showing Danielle how to get her bike going really fast to carry her up hills. We were also admiring the scenery (Mt. Rainier was out).Everyone was very hungry when we got back. I'm not sore, but my pinkie finger keeps going numb. I'm hoping to put on my new seat and make some adjustments to try and avoid the pressure on my hands. Sadly the bike computer I bought isn't going to work, so I have more exchanges to come at REI. Later this afternoon I'm going to ride to Issaquah and meet Dave at work. I'll be cleaning my chain before then - it's gross! All the work in having my gear together for biking is getting a bit tedious, but I'm trying to keep my spirits up. Everyone was really supportive yesterday - thanks friends!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Check out my article!
I wrote a guest blog on composting in Seattle for Worldchanging.com. Check it out!
re+vision: Design Your (Neighbor)Hood
This week I've had the chance to work with an awesome group of teens participating in re+vision: Design Your (Neighbor)Hood at SAM. The program is focused on design principals, and integrates art with urban planning. I had the opportunity to talk to the group about ecological footprints. We tried out one online footprint calculator, and today the teens will be headed down to the Olympic Sculpture Park for ART Attack - a monthly teen program at SAM. They will be leading an art activity for other teens that teaches a lesson about ecological footprinting.
I'm so glad to be a part of this! We've had some great conversations about strategies for reducing your ecological footprint (your carbon footprint is a component of your ecological footprint). Biking is a fantastic method of reducing your impact. I have big dreams of what I could do on my bike, and of avoiding to a greater and greater extent driving in a car. It's nice to remember that each step I take to prepare for Climate Ride is an investment in my ability to use my body to transport myself where I need to go.
I'm so glad to be a part of this! We've had some great conversations about strategies for reducing your ecological footprint (your carbon footprint is a component of your ecological footprint). Biking is a fantastic method of reducing your impact. I have big dreams of what I could do on my bike, and of avoiding to a greater and greater extent driving in a car. It's nice to remember that each step I take to prepare for Climate Ride is an investment in my ability to use my body to transport myself where I need to go.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
A new route home and a bike commute buddy!
Wednesday was intense for working out. I biked to work, walked roundtrip downtown, and played a soccer game. I'm a little sore today...
But I did test out a new route home from work. I went down Broad (on the sidewalk, though I saw 2 bikers use the road - whoa). Instead of taking Dexter, I headed up Eastlake. The hill really wasn't too bad. Not nearly as bad as I expected. I continued across the University Bridge. Here's where I was unsure - I wanted to cut over to campus and go up 20th. For lack of a better idea (and to get off 11th), I cut over on 42nd across the Ave and up by the law school. This certainly wasn't the most efficient route, but it got me off busy streets. I got home in 45 minutes, which was faster than going all the way around to Fremont and to U Village on the Burke.
Next time (Saturday), I'm thinking of going home on Dexter to Fremont, but using the bike lane up Stone to Green Lake and then going east on 65th. We'll see how it compares!
Erin just got a new job in Belltown, so we're hoping to bike commute together sometimes. It will be nice to have some support and a buddy. That really ups my motivation.
Looking forward to lots of riding this weekend: to work on Saturday, to Bothell on Sunday, and to Issaquah to visit Dave at work on Monday. If I still have it in me (let's hope so), I'll bike in with Erin on Tuesday. Whew! Wish me luck!
But I did test out a new route home from work. I went down Broad (on the sidewalk, though I saw 2 bikers use the road - whoa). Instead of taking Dexter, I headed up Eastlake. The hill really wasn't too bad. Not nearly as bad as I expected. I continued across the University Bridge. Here's where I was unsure - I wanted to cut over to campus and go up 20th. For lack of a better idea (and to get off 11th), I cut over on 42nd across the Ave and up by the law school. This certainly wasn't the most efficient route, but it got me off busy streets. I got home in 45 minutes, which was faster than going all the way around to Fremont and to U Village on the Burke.
Next time (Saturday), I'm thinking of going home on Dexter to Fremont, but using the bike lane up Stone to Green Lake and then going east on 65th. We'll see how it compares!
Erin just got a new job in Belltown, so we're hoping to bike commute together sometimes. It will be nice to have some support and a buddy. That really ups my motivation.
Looking forward to lots of riding this weekend: to work on Saturday, to Bothell on Sunday, and to Issaquah to visit Dave at work on Monday. If I still have it in me (let's hope so), I'll bike in with Erin on Tuesday. Whew! Wish me luck!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Gregg's, Gas Works, UW, Burke-Gilman, and The Ram = A good biking weekend
Dave got his new bike! Check it out:
Aww...doesn't he look like a biker? I love it. :)
It was a great (but busy) weekend. Having Friday off provided some (much needed) rest. On Friday afternoon Dave and I went for a short, but nice, bike ride over to Gregg's Cycle. We both got biking shoes. His bike came with clip pedals and I bought some for mine. I also got a new lock and flat repair kit materials. Dave got a helmet - I was glad because I was worried about him!
From there we rode down Stone Way to the Burke Gilman trail. We passed by tons of people headed into Gas Works Park for the fireworks. Early in the afternoon we had seen the hill filling up from the freeway, and it was clear that things would be crazy down there by the time the fireworks started. Luckily we made it through the crowd relatively easily, and went over to the UW. I gave Dave a biking tour of campus and showed him so of the different buildings I took classes in. We tried out Erin's route home from school up 20th, which was a really nice ride.
Friday night we went to the Olympic Sculpture Park for fireworks - they were beautiful and we sat right next to the Calder. Saturday I had Kendra's bachelorette party - limos, wine tasting, games, and Pioneer Square - oh my! After cleaning up and decompressing a bit on Sunday, Dave helped me get up some momentum and we went for a ride.
This was the first time Dave had used his clips for riding, so I was paranoid about him getting stuck. He did a fantastic job, though (now I'm going to feel ridiculous when I fall on my face). We went north past Lake Forest Park and found a grassy hill to lay out in the sun for a bit (and take some adorable pictures - see the right column). We were getting super hungry at that point, so we started back towards home. Dave succeeded in talking me into going to the Ram - to satisfy my veggie burger craving - even though I was gross, sweaty, and sans-makeup. Oh, not to mention that I was wearing spandex bike shorts...ugh. We went for it, though, and I was so glad we did. Delicious! I was concerned about hauling ourselves back up the hill to my house, but Dave's response was, "We can always walk the bikes." Hehehe. Nope, no need to restrain ourselves on eating. We'll walk the bikes. We were actually fine, despite our milkshake indulgence, and made it back up no problem.
It's a bit overwhelming buying all this new equipment, but every piece is so helpful once I figure it out. I'm getting there!
Aww...doesn't he look like a biker? I love it. :)
It was a great (but busy) weekend. Having Friday off provided some (much needed) rest. On Friday afternoon Dave and I went for a short, but nice, bike ride over to Gregg's Cycle. We both got biking shoes. His bike came with clip pedals and I bought some for mine. I also got a new lock and flat repair kit materials. Dave got a helmet - I was glad because I was worried about him!
From there we rode down Stone Way to the Burke Gilman trail. We passed by tons of people headed into Gas Works Park for the fireworks. Early in the afternoon we had seen the hill filling up from the freeway, and it was clear that things would be crazy down there by the time the fireworks started. Luckily we made it through the crowd relatively easily, and went over to the UW. I gave Dave a biking tour of campus and showed him so of the different buildings I took classes in. We tried out Erin's route home from school up 20th, which was a really nice ride.
Friday night we went to the Olympic Sculpture Park for fireworks - they were beautiful and we sat right next to the Calder. Saturday I had Kendra's bachelorette party - limos, wine tasting, games, and Pioneer Square - oh my! After cleaning up and decompressing a bit on Sunday, Dave helped me get up some momentum and we went for a ride.
This was the first time Dave had used his clips for riding, so I was paranoid about him getting stuck. He did a fantastic job, though (now I'm going to feel ridiculous when I fall on my face). We went north past Lake Forest Park and found a grassy hill to lay out in the sun for a bit (and take some adorable pictures - see the right column). We were getting super hungry at that point, so we started back towards home. Dave succeeded in talking me into going to the Ram - to satisfy my veggie burger craving - even though I was gross, sweaty, and sans-makeup. Oh, not to mention that I was wearing spandex bike shorts...ugh. We went for it, though, and I was so glad we did. Delicious! I was concerned about hauling ourselves back up the hill to my house, but Dave's response was, "We can always walk the bikes." Hehehe. Nope, no need to restrain ourselves on eating. We'll walk the bikes. We were actually fine, despite our milkshake indulgence, and made it back up no problem.
It's a bit overwhelming buying all this new equipment, but every piece is so helpful once I figure it out. I'm getting there!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
I guess this is how I'm getting my bike around in NY...
MTA Helps Commuters to Bike-and-Ride
from Carectomy.com by Kate Trainor
May is bike month, and the New York City MTA is celebrating with the launch of its Bike-and-Ride initiative. Last week, the city published a web site to encourage commuters to combine their trips on public transit with cycling journeys.
The site also tackles some of the practical problems that biking in a big, traffic-snarled city brings (i.e. being doored by taxis, dodging wayward trucks, or wedging your wheels into a crowded corner on a train at rush hour). Mainly, the MTA spells out the nitty gritty on how to bring your bike aboard various NYC transit systems and offers a roster of helpful links.
Bikes are always allowed on the NYC subway (though it’s best to avoid bringing them on during rush hour), and bike commuters can purchase a lifetime pass for $5 for most other NYC transit systems (i.e. Metro North and LIRR).
“When you use transit and your bike,” boasts the MTA site, “you’re making a transportation choice that’s inexpensive, healthy, and good for the planet.” Despite the disappointing outcome of NYC’s failed bid for congestion pricing, New York deserves hearty applause for its earnest efforts to become a more bike-friendly city.
from Carectomy.com by Kate Trainor
May is bike month, and the New York City MTA is celebrating with the launch of its Bike-and-Ride initiative. Last week, the city published a web site to encourage commuters to combine their trips on public transit with cycling journeys.
The site also tackles some of the practical problems that biking in a big, traffic-snarled city brings (i.e. being doored by taxis, dodging wayward trucks, or wedging your wheels into a crowded corner on a train at rush hour). Mainly, the MTA spells out the nitty gritty on how to bring your bike aboard various NYC transit systems and offers a roster of helpful links.
Bikes are always allowed on the NYC subway (though it’s best to avoid bringing them on during rush hour), and bike commuters can purchase a lifetime pass for $5 for most other NYC transit systems (i.e. Metro North and LIRR).
“When you use transit and your bike,” boasts the MTA site, “you’re making a transportation choice that’s inexpensive, healthy, and good for the planet.” Despite the disappointing outcome of NYC’s failed bid for congestion pricing, New York deserves hearty applause for its earnest efforts to become a more bike-friendly city.
Bikes Not Bombs
http://www.bikesnotbombs.org/
This group is amazing. I've been paying more attention to bicycle advocacy groups and I've been fascinated. What an amazing invention! I definitely feel inspired to improve my cycling skills and try out biking as an alternative transportation option in more and more ways.
This group is amazing. I've been paying more attention to bicycle advocacy groups and I've been fascinated. What an amazing invention! I definitely feel inspired to improve my cycling skills and try out biking as an alternative transportation option in more and more ways.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Climate Ride updates and tickets booked for NY and DC
Today I received an update e-mail from Climate Ride with travel information. I learned:
- Registration and bike drop-off in New York will be on Friday, September 19 from 4-7pm, followed by a kick-off party from 7 - 10pm.
- The ride begins at 7am on Saturday, September 20 (my birthday!).
- The ride ends at 6pm on Wednesday, September 24 at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
- Our campsites along the way will be:
Night 1—Princeton, NJ
Night 2—Valley Forge, PA
Night 3—Holtwood, PA
Night 4—Baltimore, MD
- In addition to getting my bike (and biking equipment) there I have to have a tent and sleeping bag. There are specifications about how to package things. I'll really have to plan it all out!
I went ahead and booked my tickets. I'll be flying into New York and out of Washington, D.C. I haven't planned my hotel in New York yet. I'll arrive in the morning on Thursday, September 18, so I'll have Thursday and Friday to get situated and tour the city (I've never been).
Sarah is going to come see me ride into D.C. (yay!), and I'll be staying with her from there. Little does she know she's getting me and a giant bag of stuff...I'll have several days in D.C. - Wednesday night through Saturday morning. I'm really excited to see Sarah again - we had a blast last August when I was in D.C. for work. I'm hoping to see some of the sites I didn't get to visit on previous trips.
Airlines really vary in how much they charge to accept bikes on the plane. Northwest was quite expensive, so I'll be packing and shipping my bike. Climate Ride has a recommended shop to have my bike sent to and reassembled, so I think I'll do that. Plus, they have people at the end to help you disassemble, pack, and ship your bike home. It will be really weird to see my bike in pieces, but it seems to be the best option.
Now the bad news...it sounds like I won't have internet for the ride. Electricity is fairly limited in some places we are staying, too. I think I'll have enough to keep my phone charged (don't worry Dave), but I don't think I'll get to blog during the ride. We'll see. There may be opportunities, but at this point I'm planning on writing and putting stories on the blog when I return. Perhaps I will see if Dave will help post! :)
- Registration and bike drop-off in New York will be on Friday, September 19 from 4-7pm, followed by a kick-off party from 7 - 10pm.
- The ride begins at 7am on Saturday, September 20 (my birthday!).
- The ride ends at 6pm on Wednesday, September 24 at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
- Our campsites along the way will be:
Night 1—Princeton, NJ
Night 2—Valley Forge, PA
Night 3—Holtwood, PA
Night 4—Baltimore, MD
- In addition to getting my bike (and biking equipment) there I have to have a tent and sleeping bag. There are specifications about how to package things. I'll really have to plan it all out!
I went ahead and booked my tickets. I'll be flying into New York and out of Washington, D.C. I haven't planned my hotel in New York yet. I'll arrive in the morning on Thursday, September 18, so I'll have Thursday and Friday to get situated and tour the city (I've never been).
Sarah is going to come see me ride into D.C. (yay!), and I'll be staying with her from there. Little does she know she's getting me and a giant bag of stuff...I'll have several days in D.C. - Wednesday night through Saturday morning. I'm really excited to see Sarah again - we had a blast last August when I was in D.C. for work. I'm hoping to see some of the sites I didn't get to visit on previous trips.
Airlines really vary in how much they charge to accept bikes on the plane. Northwest was quite expensive, so I'll be packing and shipping my bike. Climate Ride has a recommended shop to have my bike sent to and reassembled, so I think I'll do that. Plus, they have people at the end to help you disassemble, pack, and ship your bike home. It will be really weird to see my bike in pieces, but it seems to be the best option.
Now the bad news...it sounds like I won't have internet for the ride. Electricity is fairly limited in some places we are staying, too. I think I'll have enough to keep my phone charged (don't worry Dave), but I don't think I'll get to blog during the ride. We'll see. There may be opportunities, but at this point I'm planning on writing and putting stories on the blog when I return. Perhaps I will see if Dave will help post! :)
Bike maintenance class
Note that I am not using an exclamation point in this title. My excessive use of the exclamation needs to be stopped! (Hehehe.)
Yesterday Erin and I went to Bike Maintenance 101 at REI. I rode down from Ravenna and met Erin on Eastlake. We continued together from there. It took less than 30 minutes, so we made good time. We were going for a free class that covers the really basic things - cleaning and lubing your chain and changing a flat. I was amazed how much I didn't know about caring for my bike! I should have guessed, given that we got to REI and both Erin and I realized we had never taken the front wheels of our bike. We did it incorrectly, and went inside to immediately read (and then be told) how to do it correctly. I learned the structure of a bike tire (I had no idea what it looked like!) and how to properly remove the rear tire, too. Altogether very useful. When we went to leave we put our front wheels back on, and mine seemed crooked. I kept undoing it and retrying it. I thought I had somehow broken my bike. So, I took it back inside and the guy leading the training pushed on one thing and it was fine. He also showed me how to tighten my brakes. I felt pretty stupid...
To add to the evening, we put our bikes on the bus to go home. I'd never put my bike on the front of the bus! It was pretty easy using the rack/arm, but I was still nervous the whole time and watching the bikes at each bump. They made it okay - phew! When we got off I biked down to my place.
As I was approaching my house I saw Dave getting ready to pull his bike out of his car. He got a new, fancy bike! It's a KHS Flite 700 - so nicer than mine with carbon spokes and frame. Looks like a stealth bomber! I'm afraid he's going to be really, really fast now and make me look bad!
Yesterday Erin and I went to Bike Maintenance 101 at REI. I rode down from Ravenna and met Erin on Eastlake. We continued together from there. It took less than 30 minutes, so we made good time. We were going for a free class that covers the really basic things - cleaning and lubing your chain and changing a flat. I was amazed how much I didn't know about caring for my bike! I should have guessed, given that we got to REI and both Erin and I realized we had never taken the front wheels of our bike. We did it incorrectly, and went inside to immediately read (and then be told) how to do it correctly. I learned the structure of a bike tire (I had no idea what it looked like!) and how to properly remove the rear tire, too. Altogether very useful. When we went to leave we put our front wheels back on, and mine seemed crooked. I kept undoing it and retrying it. I thought I had somehow broken my bike. So, I took it back inside and the guy leading the training pushed on one thing and it was fine. He also showed me how to tighten my brakes. I felt pretty stupid...
To add to the evening, we put our bikes on the bus to go home. I'd never put my bike on the front of the bus! It was pretty easy using the rack/arm, but I was still nervous the whole time and watching the bikes at each bump. They made it okay - phew! When we got off I biked down to my place.
As I was approaching my house I saw Dave getting ready to pull his bike out of his car. He got a new, fancy bike! It's a KHS Flite 700 - so nicer than mine with carbon spokes and frame. Looks like a stealth bomber! I'm afraid he's going to be really, really fast now and make me look bad!
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