Posts Tagged bikes
Explore the Varied Biking Trails In Oklahoma
Posted by Patricia J. Walker in fitness on April 17th, 2010
In the state of Oklahoma, you will find many beautiful state parks that serve as biking trails that are well kept and ideal for people of all skill levels. What is great is that these trails are easy to get to no matter where in the state you may live. Here are some well-known biking trials to check out in Oklahoma.
The Arcadia Lake Trail in Arcadia is one of the more popular biking trails in Oklahoma for beginners. This is a six mile out and back trail that has several side trails that all eventually merge so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. It is mostly singletrack and a gentle ride with no difficult technical challenges so it is a good trail for a family outing. The trail goes past ponds and through a creek that gets deep at times. During dry spells part of the trail turns into deep sand that can make going pretty tough.
Intermediate riders will enjoy the trails at Lake Mcmurty by Stillwater where there is a lot of variety in the terrain to challenge skilled riders. There are four trails and each one is eight miles long and goes around the lake. A local bike club for racing uses one of the trails. This club as well at the Oklahoma State University keeps the trail in good order, which makes this, is a great pick for bikers to enjoy as well.
At Greenleaf State Park by Braggs, an eighteen-mile loop trail is meant for the advanced biker. This is a challenging trail with many technical parts, so get ready to face slippery rocks, extreme climbs and zooming descents along with an awesome workout. Bikers with less experience should split off at the lake, take the out and back trail to Mary’s cove.
Turkey Mountain located in Tulsa has biking trails for riders of all skill levels. Many trails begin at the top of Turkey Mountain and go off in many directions. There are a lot of steep climbs and descents in addition to the rocky terrain. Some trails offer extreme technical challenges while others are short and easier.
Bluff Creek Trail in Oklahoma City is the perfect place for people that want to escape from the city and do some biking. A three and one half mile loop trail is mostly a single track. Everyone can enjoy this trail because it goes through the woods and creek beds and it is not too difficult but still has many steep short climbs and descents.
Roman Nose State Park near Watonga, Oklahoma has many biking trails to keep you entertained. Some of them are extreme so be prepared to stay on your toes. Since there are many trails to choose from, the area is suitable for all levels. The trails are well worn so you don’t have to worry about getting lost in the forest. You will pass through breathtaking scenery and at times will share the trail with horses and hikers. Part of the trail is under cover in the forest and parts of it go through exposed prairie. You’ll want to avoid the area after a rain when the trail turns to mud.
No matter where you may live, even if it is in a large city like Tulsa or Oklahoma City, you are close to an exciting biking trail adventure in Oklahoma. When you want to have fun after a week of being cooped up in the office, go and enjoy the outdoors, so grab your bike and race to the bike trails where you can experience the loveliness of nature and get some exercise while you’re are it!
PJ opened TheComfortBikeShop.com with her husband to help meet the needs of casual cyclists. She is a strong advocate for introducing people to cycling through comfort bikes and bikes online. If you aren’t ready for a hardcore mountain or road bike, check out a cruiser bike.
What Bikers Look For in a Mountain Bike Shoe
Posted by Plato Serrano in fitness on October 23rd, 2009
Extreme sports requires specialized equipment. Good bike shoes are the overall most significant piece besides a bike helmet when riding a touring bike through brutal territory.
Traditionally, the outer layer for this type of shoe was made from robust leather. After that, it was changed as a good amount of bikes no longer had the toe clip or strap, which is awfully kind of like the hard rubber found on mountain bike tires.. Rough stuff!
Because the ability in pedaling originates from the ball of the foot, it’s sensibly right for designers to make sure that the sole is a little curved and very soft. This can be for the reason that there will be times in which you will need to get down and then carry the bike. When this happens, the mountain bike shoes become perfect for hiking until such a point in time which it looks safe and sound to cycle again.
Astoundingly, this characteristic still makes the shoes amazingly sturdy and will last a few months prior to being replaced with new ones.
There was also a time which mountain biking shoes had laces almost like most sporty shoes on the market. These were phased out later as the lace had a knack of becoming wrapped up with the pedal. This by yourself has created a whole lot of undoubtedly avoidable accidents, the laces therefore had to be replaced with the velcro strap.
Here are a few thoughts that you ought to contemplate when purchasing a pair of mountain biking shoes.
1. It is important to check on the hardness of the sole. A whole lot of manufacturers say which the kind of material that was used in making it makes it more resilient. Not true. You can ask what fabric it is made from but for a bike rider it should be ideally made from carbon.
2. The mountain biking footwear ought to be each comfortable and breathable. Nearly all bikers can be on the trail for more than only 2 hours and it is only right that the pair purchased is able to provide reasonable amount of air flow.
3. The final issue to contemplate is the shoe’s weight. It should be light-weight thus you won’t have a tough time in the future going onward as you travel long distances with the additional weight of your shoes on the outing.
Apart from an excellent pair of shoes, you can additionally get a helmet, a pullover, as well as a couple of biker shorts. Nothing should hinder the mountain biker from bycycling forward particularly when going uphill.
Every one of these items can be purchased at a local sporting goods store or on the web therefore you will be in a position to join a growing club of folks who also have the will to be close with nature and their bike.
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Riding Your Bike in Idaho
There are over 19,000 miles of bike trails in the state of Idaho. In an area thats known for its mountains and rivers, you can expect some spectacular riding! Because of harder winters and wet springs, the best time to ride is usually summer or early fall. Here are a variety of trails that Idaho has to offer for riders of every skill level.
The Mink Creek Recreation Area near Pocatello has an 11-mile loop called the Valve or Pump House trail. This is a great place for beginners to hone their skills. Theres nothing too technical here, but it will test your endurance. Bring plenty of water.
Near Stanley, intermediate riders will enjoy the 12-mile loop called Elk Mountain. This trail is initially a pretty easy uphill climb and it provides a fantastic view of the Saw Tooth Mountains, but the descent is pretty rocky all the way down to Elk Meadows. You get to cross a few streams, too. All along this trail, the scenery is incredible.
For more fantastic scenery, try the 12 miles of trail by McCall at Goose Creek Falls. This trail, too, involves crossing the creek a few times-via log crossings, on foot, or by bridge-but those are the only significant challenges, so it’s great for beginning riders. Camping is available nearby, too. But the biggest reward is the view of the 45-foot waterfall you’ll encounter on this route.
The Schweitzer Mountain Resort has a fantastic network of trails that are very well maintained. You can climb up yourself or get a ride to enjoy a technically advanced descent. Turns with berms, bridges, and more is what you can expect from the 25 miles of trails here. Experience levels range from intermediate to advanced.
If speed is more your style, head over toward Ketchum to the Bald Mountain Downhill trail. You can climb the hill yourself and tackle this 10-mile loop, but with an elevation gain somewhere between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, you may just want to opt for the $15 chairlift ride to the top. Coming down is an incredible rush! Don’t try this one without a full suspension bike, and you’d better plan ahead by packing extra tubes and a repair kit, because you never know when you’re going to need them. This trail is also open to hikers, and due to the speed, you should be extra cautious when navigating this trail.
Nearly impassable during the wet season, the Bear Pete Trail is a great ride during dry late summers or early in the fall and the trail runs 19 miles. Located near McCall, you’ll encounter a steep climb uphill but will be rewarded with views of Oregon and the Saw Tooth Mountains for your efforts. The decline is also tricky, so this one is also an adventure for the more experienced rider. And at the end of the trail, you can relax at the hot springs resort you’ll discover there!
Since Idaho is very mountainous, advanced and adventurous riders are guaranteed to love it here. The terrain is rugged with valleys, rivers, and waterfalls that are spectacular to behold. The natural beauty of Idaho is just waiting to be enjoyed by bikers ready to accept the challenge. But don’t forget-there are some great trails for beginning riders here, as well. There really is something for everyone in Idaho!
Great Places to Ride Your Bike in Georgia
Posted by Patricia J. Williams in fitness on August 17th, 2009
Whether you are a new biker or an advanced biking enthusiast, the state of Georgia has trails for bikers at all levels. In the south, you’ll find flat terrain with sandy trails, while in the northern part of the state, trails become more steep and mountainous. So no matter what you’re looking for, Georgia has trails to appeal to everyone.
If you’re looking for a long, easy, scenic bike ride, be sure to visit the Silver Comet Trail. Located not far from Powder Springs, this 40-mile route is all paved and was built atop what used to be a railroad bed, so you’ll enjoy riding across bridges and through tunnels in addition to taking in the beautiful scenery all along this trail. The trails are in very good condition, marked for ease of use, and a great place for beginning riders to get their start.
The Horn Creek Trail near Augusta is a great workout for the intermediate biker. It is a 6-mile loop, but there are escape routes? where you can bail out if you need to. There are some long climbs, fast descents, fallen trees, broken-down bridges, roots and rocks. All in all, its a really fun ride!
A great trail for advanced and novice riders, the Dauset Trails and Nature Center not far from Jackson offers 15 miles of trail that includes loops, old fire roads, and lots of great obstacles for added excitement. Along with the normal tree roots, bikers can navigate earth terraces, waterbar jumps, and rock gardens. This trail is also very well-maintained and marked and makes for an enjoyable ride for everyone.
Another great series of trails with a great variety of options for new and advanced riders is by Lawrenceville. Tribble Mill Park features trails crisscrossing around two area lakes and is a great destination for hours of exploration. Some trails are paved and easy to navigate while others have challenging climbs and drop-offs, twisting turns, and roots, rocks, and ruts to navigate. Equestrians also enjoy these trails, so you may have some little horse surprises to dodge around, too.
The Velo Augusta Bike Club created a really challenging 4-mile course near Augusta for advanced riders to tackle. The Pump House Trail will require technical skills to navigate rocks and loose dirt, exposed tree roots, and steep climbs. Switchbacks, dense forest, and fallen tree branches and logs also keep it interesting. Don’t forget to bring your own water, and wearing a helmet is recommended.
The 12-mile loop at Windy Gap (near Chatsworth) is not for the faint of heart! It is an extremely fast, steep, and technical ride. There are some huge, air jumps, but to get to them you have some killer climbs to endure first. You will definitely want to have a bike with full suspension and disc brakes for this ride!
Whether you’re looking for thrills and excitement or a more low key relaxing ride, Georgia’s trails have it all. Set amid waterfalls and beautiful forests, plains and hills, the scenery is astounding and the trails are available for year-round enjoyment. Nature lovers and biking enthusiasts will both find plenty to appreciate on the trails in Georgia. So start packing your gear and plan to check out some of these great trails sometime soon!
Fantastic Florida Biking Trails
Posted by PJ Williams in fitness on August 12th, 2009
Even though Florida is fairly flat, there are still plenty of places to intrigue and defy bikers of all skill levels. Some of the extra challenges this state provides are plenty of sand and mud (due to the high rainfall). You might even have to watch out for a gator or two!
Sun Lakes park has 5 miles of trails to choose from near Sebring. There are lots of beautiful rolling hills, but nothing too steep. This is a great place to ride for bikers of all experience levels. It can get pretty muddy after a rainfall, but there are some decent, dry trails, as well as fire breaks and various obstacles to keep things interesting. The bugs can be pretty nasty in the summer, so bring plenty of insect repellent.
Balm Boyette boasts 16-20 miles of diverse trails beginners can select from as they learn and then go on to develop their biking skills. Many trails are flat but have a few challenges to navigate to build those skills-like rocks, roots, and sand. While trails are marked, you should bring a map to be on the safe side. And don’t forget to bring lots of liquids. It might be considered a “beginner” trail, but it’s a workout for everyone.
Dyer Park near West Palm Beach has something for everyone. There are several distinctly different trails. The park is located on an old landfill. The first trail is about 3 miles long and goes up and down the hill all the way around it. Its pretty challenging with hairpin turns and steep inclines. The second trail runs around the outer edge of the park, but there are several technical trails that shoot off of it. There are also paved and gravel roads for equestrians. These trails are great for intermediate riders, who can also work on their skills with some of the technical side trails.
Fort Clinch, by Fernandina, is a great attraction and provides bathroom facilities and vending machines which is a nice plus. While admission is $5, many bikers park their vehicles by the beach and just come in on their bikes to avoid the expense. The trails encompass 7 miles of great bike riding including technical challenges like trees, sand, leaves, mud, stumps, and tree roots to navigate and a plethora of turns, twists, ups, and downs to keep things interesting. Be sure to watch for the signs and stay on the bike trail, though. The trail heads off in different directions at some points, and it can be easy to get confused.
Lakeland boasts a 6-mile hard packed track with exciting technical challenges including jumps, finger loops, roller coaster drops, and alligators! Called Carter Road, it was once the location for a phosphate mine, and it creates a complete loop.
If you’re in good shape and want to tackle steep hills and technical challenges, head over to Alafia where you’ll find 10 miles of exciting and well kept trails. This trail also has restrooms and a parking fee-usually $2-$4-but it’s worth it. Get a map of the area, though, before you head out, because sometimes the trails aren’t marked clearly and can get confusing.
No matter how experienced-or inexperienced-you may be, Florida has fun and exciting bike trails you’ll enjoy. But remember, Florida is one of the nation’s hot spots. So bring-and drink-plenty of water to stay hydrated. And plan to have a blast!
Great Places to Ride Your Bike in Colorado
Posted by Patricia J Williams in fitness on August 7th, 2009
What would Colorado be without one gorgeous mountain after another? Naturally mountainous areas are a bikers paradise, so where better to test the limits of adventure then right here? Colorado has much to offer the experienced biker, but there are plenty of trails for the novice as well. Here are some of the best.
Three trails combine to create a long, technical trail encompassing 21 miles. Located near Buena Vista, the Colorado Trail, Chalk Cliffs, and Cottonwood Pass Road have some sections suitable for inexperienced riders, but a good part of the path is uphill with steep inclines. Your reward for braving the trek? Enjoy the hot springs located midway on the trail and give yourself a relaxing break. The Colorado Trail also has restrooms by their parking area.
Near Salida there is a trail that encompasses 28 miles called Monarch Crest. This is a beautiful, scenic area for nature lovers, and you can even take a shuttle to the 12,000-foot elevation to see the Continental Divide.
White Ranch Park near Golden is over 19 miles of various loops to choose from. Its an old ranch just east of Denver. You will have to share the track with hikers, and the occasional cow, deer, elk, or bear. There are some great climbs, tough descents, roots and rocks to keep things interesting. While technical, it can be a great place for an intermediate biker to hone his skills.
For serious riders who can handle starting out with a 10-mile incline, the Bear Creek Loop provides 20 miles of picturesque views combined with tricky sections of trail. Downhills, rocks, and fast bermed and fast banked corners will test your skills while you can test your speed in the more open areas. This trail follows the edge of the Glenwood Canyon 1,700 feet high above the Colorado River. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce to get a map of the area for just $1.
Even more difficult is the Searle/Kokomo Pass. Located in the vicinity of Dillon, this 18-mile section is shorter than some of the other trails, but extremely tough. The 12,300-foot altitude makes breathing a challenge, and the trek is demanding. But if you can handle the thin air and tough terrain, you’ll be treated to some beautiful scenery-like native wildflowers and pristine ponds. And the downhill stretches are an exciting plus.
Even more challenging and arduous, expert bikers will experience some fantastic but technical trails on the 32-mile loop called the Double Top Trail not far from Crested Butte, Colorado. Bring along lots of water, though, because the 11,700-foot altitude contributes to dehydration problems. Make sure you’re in excellent physical condition before you tackle this one, and then plan to have a blast!
Colorado’s biking trails present unique challengers to bikers-like the high altitudes that can cause a lightheaded reaction and contribute to dehydration-but they’re also incredible if you want to have fun and stretch your skill level. To ensure safe riding, never bike alone, always take lots of water along with you, and give yourself time to adjust to the high altitude before biking. Then have fun!
Mid-Atlantic States and the Great Biking Paths
Posted by Patricia J Walker in fitness on May 26th, 2009
The Mid-Atlantic States are home to some of the greatest cities in the country. They are also home to some of the most beautiful and scenic bike trails. These trails are a great way to get a true appreciation of the natural beauty in this region.
Hartwood Acres, just outside of Pittsburg has a little something for everyone. Experienced bikers will enjoy the quick switchbacks, downhill slopes, tough climbs and lots of root and log jumps. Hartwood Acres has over fifteen miles of trails including beautiful rock gardens and an unbelievable Tudor mansion to explore. The trails are free but there is a nominal fee for checking out the estate.
Ohio has the Scioto Trail State Forest near Waverly City. There are lots of trails to choose from and they add up to over 26 miles of gravel and dirt. Beginners are welcome but experienced bikers will enjoy the technical trails. Watch out for the horseback riders though as these trails are shared.
Freedom Park in Williamsburg,VA has 3 beautiful loop trails totaling about 5 miles in length. This particular bike trail is great for families. The trails are not especially difficult and there are so many historical sites to explore. Williamsburg is well known for the Revolutionary War reenactments which evokes a sense of colonial adventure. The bike paths have some historical obstacles and cool bridges to give the family the full experience.
The Kennison Mountain Trail near Richwood, West Virginia is a great place to practice technical skills. It is an eight-mile loop that is chock full of rocky singletrack, tough downhill spots, and lots of mud. Advanced riders will find it challenging and great practice, and novice riders will find it a great place to get better in a hurry!
North Carolina is no stranger to biking trails. There are many areas of the state that seem dedicated to the sport. Bryson City is no exception. Among some of the best are Thompson Loop and Mouse Branch. There are a few things to be aware of here. Bikes are only welcomed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and there is a fee to ride these trails. If you are a regular, you can get a season pass for fifteen bucks. Thompson Loop is a throwback to the kind of bike riding you did as a kid. With steep climbs and smooth banked curves, you can relive the days when helmets were not legalized. Thompson Loop is just shy of 8 miles long and sure to give you your money’s worth.
Mouse Branch is a 6.5-mile loop with lots of fast descents and fewer climbs. Watch for a nice overlook as a great resting spot! The Southside Trail near Spartanburg, South Carolina is a nine-mile loop that used to be called Tour De Dump. It has been completely redone and is now better than ever! It offers a lot of variety and is now more accessible to beginners. It’s a lightly used area that is a great place to practice and hone your skills.
Don’t miss an opportunity! The mid-atlantic states are a great place to bike, especially with the family. It is a fun, healthy and inexpensive way to take in some beautiful sites and bond with the kids.