What a great ride to end 2006 with! I just returned from an excellent 23 mile sunset ride biking along the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain on the full size Montague MX folding mountain bike.
With the Corps of Engineers project to raise the hurricane protection levees plodding along, access to the lake front bike trail is not currently possible from the Beach Club where I start most rides (in fact, access is difficult if not impossible for about 4 miles along the linear trail from Causeway Blvd to beyond the Elmwood Canal). I had to meander through Country Club Estates, cross the Elmwood Canal on the bike/ped bridge at 37th St. and ride another mile or so Northwest to the trail head near David Dr.
When I did hit the trail, the conditions were heavenly. In contrast to yesterday's constant rain and tornado/flood warnings, today was cooler and less humid. With the temperature averaging 60 degrees F, a 5 mph wind from the West and bright sunshine, the number of other riders and walkers on the trail was surprisingly low, allowing me to make excellent time.
Once I made the end of the trail, I had plenty of daylight left so I crossed the levee and followed the Old Hammond Highway into Orleans Parish. At West End, I turned North onto Lakeshore Parkway, passing 2 roadies, one drafting the other.
The Lake front is still in tatters from Katrina. The old picnic shelters were countless New Orleanians have held family cookouts and ate boiled crawfish or shrimp are empty, roped off shells. Although the seawall is intact, the storm surge ate out the ground from behind it so a huge, gaping ditch follows the length of the seawall. Only at the concrete plaza across from the famous but defunct Mardi Gras fountain did I see more than 10 people gathered. Very sad.
I rode as far as the "high bridge" over Bayou St. John. Looking down in the water, I could still see storm debris. I think it will be a long time before it's ever removed. I made it back to the bike trail with sunlight and enjoyed a beautiful sunset from the trail with the Causeway in silhouette. At that point, I hooked up the intensely powerful Quad star LED headlight from Elektrolumens, and rode the trail West to the detour at Lake Villa. I crossed the incomplete and gooey clay levee carrying the bike so it would not be spitting chunks of clay on me the entire ride home.
I rode Folse Dr. all the way to Al Copeland's to catch Big Al's impressive Christmas light display one last time. This year, Big Al's Christmas light theme was "Under The Big Top"; as usual, there were 2 workers out in front of the mansion handing out fresh cotton candy and popcorn for free. With a huge grin, I asked for a stick of cotton candy and rode home, eating it along the way. Sure am glad that cotton candy washes easily out of a beard :)
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
New Orleans Recovery - The Ongoing Story
Many years ago, to earn money while in college, I took a part time job selling Cutco knives. I learned two valuable lessons from that job: focus on the customer's needs and stay upbeat. Along those lines, I'd like to share some bright spots in the New Orleans recovery after Katrina.
Although some people far from New Orleans think otherwise, the floodwaters caused by the failure of the levees during Hurricane Katrina were pumped out over a year ago. Since the storm, President Bush and a long line of other leaders and dignataries from around the world have toured the devastation and promised help. Billions have been allocated for the reconstruction and many individuals from across the nation have come to New Orleans on their own nickel to volunteer. Additionally, fine people throughout the nation have helped Katrina evacuees find housing, clothing, home furnishings, food and more in their own communities. Indeed, with hundreds of thousands of New Orleanians displaced to this day, those volunteer efforts continue nationwide.
The five story high debris piles that stood in places like the wide, grassy West End median are gone. More stop lights are working, the streetcars are back on a segment of their historic route and the electrical outages are less frequent. Many tourists are coming to town soon for New Years, the Sugar Bowl and Mardi Gras. A movie studio (LIFT) is being built just outside the French Quarter, private investors are proposing new housing developments all over the city and a handful of the 90,000 homeowners that applied for money from the $7.5 billion Road Home program have received checks.
Without a doubt, all this is great news; however, the road to New Orleans' recovery will take years if not a decade. Whole neighborhoods are ghost towns of empty, gutted structures. Major storm related issues such as a much greater cost of living, scaled back city services, continued utility outages, etc. are tying the hands of regular folks that just want to return home.
With so many emergencies to manage, the City of New Orleans has little time to spend on quality of life issues like parks; yet, with few places for kids to burn off energy and so many residents suffering from depression and anxiety, the need for green space is high. There is a group working to create a linear park through several of the most flooded neighborhoods. The group is called FOLC, the Friends of the Lafitte Corridor.
FOLC is a grass roots, 501 (c)3 non-profit organization cobbled together by regular folks to breathe life back into historic New Orleans neighborhoods like Treme and Mid City via the creation of a linear park through the Lafitte Corridor. Stretching from the French Quarter to Bayou St. John, the Lafitte Corridor was first known as the Carondolet Canal, a ditch dug by the Spanish in the 1600's to enable commercial goods to get to New Orleans without need for sailing 50+ miles up the Mississippi River. Eventually, the canal was covered and a railway was built along the corridor. Decades ago, the railroad stopped using much of the corridor and the tracks were ripped up last year.
The city's master transportation plan calls for the corridor to become a bike trail and over $400,000 is available now for the project. Unfortunately, city officials are busy concentrating on more pressing, major emergencies. City Hall has also been pressured by private investment groups to sell portions of the land. If this occurs, the land will be broken up forever.
Last week, I was elected to serve on FOLC's board of directors (a volunteer/no pay position). I have vowed to do all in my power to see the project to completion. We'll soon be adding a PayPal donation button to the FOLC website and are planning a fundraiser too. If you can donate money or time to this project, great. If not, please tell others that New Orleans is rebuilding and let them know about what "FOLC's" in the Big Easy are doing. We may be known as the City that Care Forgot but New Orleans IS a cultural treasure worth saving for generations to come.
Although some people far from New Orleans think otherwise, the floodwaters caused by the failure of the levees during Hurricane Katrina were pumped out over a year ago. Since the storm, President Bush and a long line of other leaders and dignataries from around the world have toured the devastation and promised help. Billions have been allocated for the reconstruction and many individuals from across the nation have come to New Orleans on their own nickel to volunteer. Additionally, fine people throughout the nation have helped Katrina evacuees find housing, clothing, home furnishings, food and more in their own communities. Indeed, with hundreds of thousands of New Orleanians displaced to this day, those volunteer efforts continue nationwide.
The five story high debris piles that stood in places like the wide, grassy West End median are gone. More stop lights are working, the streetcars are back on a segment of their historic route and the electrical outages are less frequent. Many tourists are coming to town soon for New Years, the Sugar Bowl and Mardi Gras. A movie studio (LIFT) is being built just outside the French Quarter, private investors are proposing new housing developments all over the city and a handful of the 90,000 homeowners that applied for money from the $7.5 billion Road Home program have received checks.
Without a doubt, all this is great news; however, the road to New Orleans' recovery will take years if not a decade. Whole neighborhoods are ghost towns of empty, gutted structures. Major storm related issues such as a much greater cost of living, scaled back city services, continued utility outages, etc. are tying the hands of regular folks that just want to return home.
With so many emergencies to manage, the City of New Orleans has little time to spend on quality of life issues like parks; yet, with few places for kids to burn off energy and so many residents suffering from depression and anxiety, the need for green space is high. There is a group working to create a linear park through several of the most flooded neighborhoods. The group is called FOLC, the Friends of the Lafitte Corridor.
FOLC is a grass roots, 501 (c)3 non-profit organization cobbled together by regular folks to breathe life back into historic New Orleans neighborhoods like Treme and Mid City via the creation of a linear park through the Lafitte Corridor. Stretching from the French Quarter to Bayou St. John, the Lafitte Corridor was first known as the Carondolet Canal, a ditch dug by the Spanish in the 1600's to enable commercial goods to get to New Orleans without need for sailing 50+ miles up the Mississippi River. Eventually, the canal was covered and a railway was built along the corridor. Decades ago, the railroad stopped using much of the corridor and the tracks were ripped up last year.
The city's master transportation plan calls for the corridor to become a bike trail and over $400,000 is available now for the project. Unfortunately, city officials are busy concentrating on more pressing, major emergencies. City Hall has also been pressured by private investment groups to sell portions of the land. If this occurs, the land will be broken up forever.
Last week, I was elected to serve on FOLC's board of directors (a volunteer/no pay position). I have vowed to do all in my power to see the project to completion. We'll soon be adding a PayPal donation button to the FOLC website and are planning a fundraiser too. If you can donate money or time to this project, great. If not, please tell others that New Orleans is rebuilding and let them know about what "FOLC's" in the Big Easy are doing. We may be known as the City that Care Forgot but New Orleans IS a cultural treasure worth saving for generations to come.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Merry Christmas To All
Merry Christmas! Mateo awoke Robin & I this morning, virtually bouncing off the walls in anticipation of opening presents. We woke up the Doodle, went downstairs & gave the kids their presents. Wrapping paper, plastic & cardboard went flying willy nilly and there was much smiling.Now that the cat is medicated, daddy's had 2 cups of coffee and 2 slices of cheese cake, and the batteries are in all the toys, we're getting ready for church; however, I wanted to post this photo real quick just to give you a glimpse of what it was like at 8 am this morning.
Hope you have a great Christmas.
Friends of the Lafitte Corridor
Recently, I was selected to serve on the board of directors for the Friends of the Lafitte Corridor (FOLC), an organization dedicated to turning an abandoned rail line running from the New Orleans French Quarter into public recreation space and linear park.
The Lafitte Corridor played a huge role in the development of New Orleans. First a canal dug by the Spanish as a route for commerce, the city enclosed the canal and allowed the Great Southern Railway to use the right of way for their rail line into the city. The railway ran through historic neighborhoods like Storyville (red light district and birthplace of jazz) Treme (home to Creoles, voodoo & red beans) and Mid City (Bayou Saint John, streetcars & above ground cemeteries), terminating at Canal and Basin Streets. With the building of New Orleans' Union Passenger Terminal in the 1940's, the railway slowly fell into disuse; most of the tracks were ripped up about a year ago.
Although the bike trail along the Lafitte Corridor has been in New Orleans' master transportation plan for years, funds for the project just began to emerge before Hurricane Katrina. Unfortunately, the catastrophic flooding New Orleans endured due to poorly designed federal flood protection barriers have forced city government to operate in crisis mode for an extended time.
Recognizing that a sharply reduced City Hall staff placed the bike trail and greenway corridor in peril of being lost to developers, a citizen's coalition of neighbors, former residents and local cyclists came together to form FOLC. Though new, FOLC has already received a variety of grants including one from the Rails To Trails Conservancy; to date, over $400,000 has been raised for the project. Additionally, a new film studio known as LIFT is building an initial phase of the trail along the edge of their property so the linear park is certainly moving forward.
Help FOLC Railbank The Historic Lafitte Corridor
Railbanking this former right of way of the Great Southern Railway into a bike trail does more than generate green space; it preserves a corridor that played a central role in the birth of Jazz and the development of New Orleans. Also, a blighted and overgrown corridor can become an enduring symbol of hope and place of recreation that will spur redevelopment and growth at a vital time. As a board member of FOLC, I humbly ask for your help. Visit our new website (folc-nola.org), tell your friends what we're doing and, if possible, donate some time or money to see this project through.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
The Lafitte Corridor played a huge role in the development of New Orleans. First a canal dug by the Spanish as a route for commerce, the city enclosed the canal and allowed the Great Southern Railway to use the right of way for their rail line into the city. The railway ran through historic neighborhoods like Storyville (red light district and birthplace of jazz) Treme (home to Creoles, voodoo & red beans) and Mid City (Bayou Saint John, streetcars & above ground cemeteries), terminating at Canal and Basin Streets. With the building of New Orleans' Union Passenger Terminal in the 1940's, the railway slowly fell into disuse; most of the tracks were ripped up about a year ago.
Although the bike trail along the Lafitte Corridor has been in New Orleans' master transportation plan for years, funds for the project just began to emerge before Hurricane Katrina. Unfortunately, the catastrophic flooding New Orleans endured due to poorly designed federal flood protection barriers have forced city government to operate in crisis mode for an extended time.
Recognizing that a sharply reduced City Hall staff placed the bike trail and greenway corridor in peril of being lost to developers, a citizen's coalition of neighbors, former residents and local cyclists came together to form FOLC. Though new, FOLC has already received a variety of grants including one from the Rails To Trails Conservancy; to date, over $400,000 has been raised for the project. Additionally, a new film studio known as LIFT is building an initial phase of the trail along the edge of their property so the linear park is certainly moving forward.
Help FOLC Railbank The Historic Lafitte Corridor
Railbanking this former right of way of the Great Southern Railway into a bike trail does more than generate green space; it preserves a corridor that played a central role in the birth of Jazz and the development of New Orleans. Also, a blighted and overgrown corridor can become an enduring symbol of hope and place of recreation that will spur redevelopment and growth at a vital time. As a board member of FOLC, I humbly ask for your help. Visit our new website (folc-nola.org), tell your friends what we're doing and, if possible, donate some time or money to see this project through.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Welded Magnesium Folding Bike
About a week and a half ago, I had an interesting conversation with Jason Cary, a young bicycle builder on the West coast whose folding bikes are built with frames of welded magnesium tubing. Since I'm featuring a $169 diecast magnesium ultra light folding bike (just 23 lbs) on RideTHISbike.com, Jason suggested that readers may also be interested in a higher end welded magnesium bike that folds and offered to send one for me to review. Unfortunately, the Winter storm that hit the Rockies has kept the bike locked tight in a rail car in Denver.In anticipation of the delivery of the bike soon, I wanted to post the information that I have pertaining to it. Once I receive it, I'll shoot some photos and report on how this folding bike rides.
Folding Bike Name: Aerlite-B
PRIMARY FEATURES
16 Inch Magnesium alloy frame, Shimano Nexus 3 Speed Internal Hub, Pro-Max V-Lock Brakes, Front and Rear alloy Fenders
SPECS
Weight – Bike Only: Overall weight with rack 24 Pounds or 10.9 k Frame weight is 3.3 Pounds or 1.5 k
Max. Size Fully Stretched: 54" from front to rear, 47" from top of handlebars to the ground fully extended, 36.5" from top of seat to ground
Folding Time: Less than 30 seconds
Max Rider Weight with High Pressure Tires: 300 pounds or 136.3 k
Rider Max. Height: 6'5"
COMPONENTS
Frame: Magnesium Alloy
Seat Post: Aluminum Alloy
Handlebar Stem: Aluminum Alloy
Handlebars: Aluminum Alloy
Saddle:Ergonomically designed Comfort Saddle
Brakes: Pro-Max V lock
Shifter: Shimano (Revo/Grip Shift Style)
Derailleur: Shimano Nexus Internal 3 Speed Hub
Crank set: 46 Teeth Aluminum 150mm arms
Chain: KMC Anti Rust
Spokes: Stainless
Number of Spokes: 20 Front and 28 Rear
Tires: 16x1.75, 35psi
Rims: Aluminum Alloy
Fenders: Aluminum Alloy
Pedals: Resin, Folding
Kick Stand: Stainless Steel
OTHER NOTABLE FEATURES
Rustproof, Virtually maintenance free, Available add-ons such as Shimano Nexus Auto-D (computer assisted shifting) 3 speed, 7 or 8 speed nexus hubs, front and rear lights with hub dynamo. Backed by the Betst Limited Lifetime warranty.
MSRP: $359 (with shipping @ $410)
OPTIONS
- Bell
- Aluminum Rear Carry Rack (w/45 lbs capacity) $39.99
- Bag $59.99
Buy It Now
More About This Folding Bike...
- photos of the Aerlite B magnesium folding bike (3 January 2007)
- review of the Aerlite B magnesium folding bike (11 January 2007)
Folding bikes
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Living Car Free In Los Angeles
Did you know that in Los Angeles, the average time a driver spends in traffic totals a ridiculous two and a half weeks per year?
Glen Janken is a 55 year old native of Los Angeles that's had it with L.A.'s notorious traffic. He's resolved to use alternate transportation like buses and bikes to get around.
Yesterday, Glen wrote about a recent shopping excursion. He rode his bike 30 miles to the store then rode the bus back, placing the bicycle on the bike rack on the front of the bus.
The most interesting point concerning Glen's journey is that his return journey by bus took as long as the bike ride to the store. Glen believes that the lack of stop signs or traffic signals on the bike trail combined with the bus having to go through traffic is why the travel times were the same.
Following are some useful sites for living without a car in Los Angeles:
Glen Janken's car free L.A. lifestyle blog...
fixlatraffic.blogspot.com
CarFreeLA.com offers a variety of articles about living in Los Angeles without a car.
The LADOT offers info on bikeways and local transit services.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Sinclair Research's A-Bike Folding Bicycle
Ever since I first read about the A-Bike sometime ago, I have been skeptical about the practicality of this folding bike. After watching a YouTube video today showing the A-Bike in action, I can see where some users would benefit by having a bike this light (just 12 lbs) and quick to fold, especially if they commute partly by bike and partly by mass transit bus or subway train.What concerns me most about the A-Bike are its teeny tiny wheels (hitting a pothole, road debris or crossing a drainage grate could lead to a dangerous spill). Without a doubt, this bike was designed for cycling on smooth pavement but that can be hard to find in many congested, urban areas. With a max load capacity of 187 lbs, many Americans would be too heavy to ride it. Also, the bike is designed to cruise at a max of about 15 mph so I'd be leery of riding this single speed bike in traffic in Manhattan or downtown Chicago; tooling around Central Park on it would be fun though.
Regardless, the A-Bike was conceived by the famous inventor Sir Clive Sinclair and someone thought enough of this bike to provide the financial backing needed to mass produce it so I'll withhold my verdict on the smallest of folding bikes until I get to ride one. In the meantime, here's the video I saw as well as a promo video from Sinclair Research. Watch them and judge for yourself. I'd love to read what you think too.
Note: If all you see is an empty box where the movies should be, you probably don't have Flash on your computer. Flash is free and can be downloaded from Adobe.com.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Washington DC Mass Transit Guidelines For Bikes
There was a post this evening on the Washington Area Bicyclist Association weblog about taking bikes on the various transit bus, train and light rail systems in the D.C. area. Happily, it was reported that all D.C. area mass transit operators allow folding bikes aboard (though some require folders to be bagged). Unfortunately, the news is not so good for riders of standard sized bikes.For the complete details including links to the various transit agencies' info on carrying bicycles, visit...
http://washcycle.typepad.com
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Novel Folding Bike Stand Up Routine
Now, direct from China, here's a folding bike video where it's standing room only on the carry rack. A pretty girl stands out from the crowd by hitching a ride on the back of a folding bicycle.
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Ikea Gives 9000 Employees Folding Bikes For Christmas
Attention Corporate America!
Rather than let rising health care costs continue to erode your profits, follow IKEA UK's lead and give your employees something that will let them cut their commuting costs and become healthier in the process.
For years, IKEA (the Scandanavian furnishings giant) has been giving employees Christmas gifts like DVD players, digital cameras and other electronic gadgets. This year, the company gave something far more practical - folding bikes AND subsidies of 15% for commuting by mass transit.
When asked why IKEA UK chose to give employees folding bikes, IKEA's UK manager (Peter Hogsted) responded: "We want to create a better everyday life for the many and do what we can to make greener living possible. This is both for our co-workers, as well as our millions of customers...The bike is a fun present but there is a serious message. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to protect the environment... That is why we are also going to subsidise our employees who will use public transport to get to work... I am encouraged by the fact that a small step such as this has been widely welcomed... Interested parties ranging from government to NGOs have supported this eco-friendly proposal."
Without a doubt, some IKEA employees will be disappointed that they didn't receive yet another electronic toy; however, others will make full use of their new folding bikes and transit subsidies and will be forever grateful to upper management - not only for helping workers save money commuting but also for inspiring them to be more physically fit. Since bike riding also releases endorphins, these Christmas gifts should also result in a happier, more productive workforce (a fact shareholders will appreciate).
For an in depth article that Carlton Reid of BikeBiz.co.uk wrote on this Christmas story, go to ...
http://www.bikebiz.co.uk/Ikea-gifts-9000-folding-bikes-to-staffH
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Rather than let rising health care costs continue to erode your profits, follow IKEA UK's lead and give your employees something that will let them cut their commuting costs and become healthier in the process.For years, IKEA (the Scandanavian furnishings giant) has been giving employees Christmas gifts like DVD players, digital cameras and other electronic gadgets. This year, the company gave something far more practical - folding bikes AND subsidies of 15% for commuting by mass transit.
When asked why IKEA UK chose to give employees folding bikes, IKEA's UK manager (Peter Hogsted) responded: "We want to create a better everyday life for the many and do what we can to make greener living possible. This is both for our co-workers, as well as our millions of customers...The bike is a fun present but there is a serious message. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to protect the environment... That is why we are also going to subsidise our employees who will use public transport to get to work... I am encouraged by the fact that a small step such as this has been widely welcomed... Interested parties ranging from government to NGOs have supported this eco-friendly proposal."
Without a doubt, some IKEA employees will be disappointed that they didn't receive yet another electronic toy; however, others will make full use of their new folding bikes and transit subsidies and will be forever grateful to upper management - not only for helping workers save money commuting but also for inspiring them to be more physically fit. Since bike riding also releases endorphins, these Christmas gifts should also result in a happier, more productive workforce (a fact shareholders will appreciate).
For an in depth article that Carlton Reid of BikeBiz.co.uk wrote on this Christmas story, go to ...
http://www.bikebiz.co.uk/Ikea-gifts-9000-folding-bikes-to-staffH
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Website Changes In Progress
After much thought, I'm in the process of making a variety of changes to the website and blog for the benefit of visitors like you. Among other things, I'm making some substantial changes to the look of the site so, hopefully, I won't alarm anyone.
With as many pages as I have online, a revision project like this takes time. Over the next week or so, I hope to have all pages migrated to the new look.
Please email me whether you like the new changes. I love getting feedback from my visitors.
Regards,
Larry
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Folding Bikes For Touring
When it comes to touring on a folding bike, the undisputed leaders are the Bike Friday and Brompton folding bicycles; however, another great folding bike is the Giatex which uses a patented, telescoping frame concept rather than hinging frame members. The result is like having a custom made bike sized to your specific frame that also rolls when folded. Giatex makes an aluminum framed folder with 20" alloy wheels that weighs 24 lbs. and a 16" wheeled folder weighing 22 lbs but stock in the USA is completely sold out until 2007.
Pricing:Bike Friday Pilot
26 lbs, 8 speed shimano, alloy seatpost & handlebars, adjustable height seatpost, kickstand, quick release rims $1000
Brompton P6R-X
28 lbs, 6 speed internal hub, hub lighting system, titanium seatpost & folding pedals, fenders/mudflaps, multiposition handlebars, rear carry rack, carry bag, zefal pump $2500
Giatex Chiba 20"24 lbs, 6 speed shimano, aluminum/alloy frame, seatpost & handlebars, adjustable height seatpost & handlebars, adjustable length frame, folding pedals, fenders, kickstand, bike bell, quick release front rim, rear carry rack & carry bag $570
By the way, either the Brompton or the Giatex will fit in a suitcase that conforms to commercial aircraft baggage size limitations. One last thought: if you're going to remote areas with rough road surfaces, consider a full size mountain bike that folds like the 29lb $650 Montague Paratrooper (it accepts standard panniers & is military tuff).Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Folding Bikes For RV's & Airstream Trailers
I was browsing the Net this morning and came across Airstream Life's Tour of America, a blog about a family (Rich, Eleanor & Emma) traveling across America in an Airstream travel trailer.
Airstreams are beautiful, durable trailers with a loyal following (just have a gander at the shiny Airstream photo pictured at right; I found it on Flickr). Growing up, one of the things I enjoyed doing at Mardi Gras time was riding my bike over to City Park and checking out all the gleaming silver Airstreams parked around Tad Gormley Stadium for the Wally Byam Caravan Club International (WBCCI) New Orleans Mardi Gras Rally. But I digress.
This Airstreaming family posted a Christmas gift for Airstreamers wish list to help non-campers understand the needs & desires of those living in travel trailers. Naturally, the list leaned towards light, useful items that took up little space so it was no surprise that the list included a folding bike (which are great for riding around the campground or to the store). What DID surprise me was the list included a specific type of folder - a Birdy. Don't get me wrong; Birdy's are great folding bikes but they start at $1250. Why pay over a grand for a Birdy folding bike when other sturdy yet light folders are available at a fraction of the price?
Here are 3 examples of folding bicycles that fold in seconds without tools (note that the most expensive folding bike in the list below is HALF the cost of the average Birdy).
- $169 23 Lb. / 6 Speed Folder (see how it folds)
- $329 Adjustable Size 6 Spd Folder (fits kids or adults) (see how it folds)
- $699 3 Second / 3 Speed Folding Bike (see how it folds)
Happy Trails,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Airstreams are beautiful, durable trailers with a loyal following (just have a gander at the shiny Airstream photo pictured at right; I found it on Flickr). Growing up, one of the things I enjoyed doing at Mardi Gras time was riding my bike over to City Park and checking out all the gleaming silver Airstreams parked around Tad Gormley Stadium for the Wally Byam Caravan Club International (WBCCI) New Orleans Mardi Gras Rally. But I digress.This Airstreaming family posted a Christmas gift for Airstreamers wish list to help non-campers understand the needs & desires of those living in travel trailers. Naturally, the list leaned towards light, useful items that took up little space so it was no surprise that the list included a folding bike (which are great for riding around the campground or to the store). What DID surprise me was the list included a specific type of folder - a Birdy. Don't get me wrong; Birdy's are great folding bikes but they start at $1250. Why pay over a grand for a Birdy folding bike when other sturdy yet light folders are available at a fraction of the price?
Here are 3 examples of folding bicycles that fold in seconds without tools (note that the most expensive folding bike in the list below is HALF the cost of the average Birdy).
- $169 23 Lb. / 6 Speed Folder (see how it folds)
- $329 Adjustable Size 6 Spd Folder (fits kids or adults) (see how it folds)
- $699 3 Second / 3 Speed Folding Bike (see how it folds)
Happy Trails,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Mississippi River 40 Mile Folding Bike Ride
Today, I had the great pleasure to ride 40 miles through the Western suburbs of New Orleans on the Montague MX suspended, full size, folding mountain bike.
The urge to ride has been building within me since my spill at Spanish Plaza about 2 weeks ago. I had ridden downtown to photograph the QE2 at dock on the Mississippi River. It was night time and the Plaza's polished marble pavement was wet with condensation. I went to make a turn but the bike wanted to go straight... Luckily, the fall resulted only in a nasty oozing knee. I shot some halfway decent night time photos of the QE2 and her guest queueing up for a steamboat jazz cruise on (see the 3 photos in this post), then proceeded to ride the 15 or so miles home.
The scab I earned from the fall kept me off the bike for a few days. Meanwhile, I got busy on a Hurricane Katrina repair project ripping out lots of 2x4's that had to be thrown out a window. Once the job was done, my lower back was sore for almost a week. Fast forward to today.
The weather was gorgeous: brilliant blue skies, temps in the mid 50's and a 5-10 mph breeze from the East. Frankly, I hadn't intended to ride 40 miles; however, once I hit the road, I just didn't want to stop riding.
Along the ride, I encountered a traffic accident scene, cruised past Destrehan Plantation, did some shopping at the new Dollar General in St. Rose (trail mix and sports drink), took a snack break at Rivertown, watched sheriff's deputies in 8 patrol cars meet & prep for a drug raid, watched the oil tanker Ficus sail round a riverbend on it's way to a terminal upriver and passed about 15 or so other cyclists on the Bill Kellor / Mississippi River Levee trail.
If you'd like to see the route of my ride, I charted it on Dave Ploch's 2wheeltech.com bike route mapping website.
Larry
The urge to ride has been building within me since my spill at Spanish Plaza about 2 weeks ago. I had ridden downtown to photograph the QE2 at dock on the Mississippi River. It was night time and the Plaza's polished marble pavement was wet with condensation. I went to make a turn but the bike wanted to go straight... Luckily, the fall resulted only in a nasty oozing knee. I shot some halfway decent night time photos of the QE2 and her guest queueing up for a steamboat jazz cruise on (see the 3 photos in this post), then proceeded to ride the 15 or so miles home.
The scab I earned from the fall kept me off the bike for a few days. Meanwhile, I got busy on a Hurricane Katrina repair project ripping out lots of 2x4's that had to be thrown out a window. Once the job was done, my lower back was sore for almost a week. Fast forward to today.The weather was gorgeous: brilliant blue skies, temps in the mid 50's and a 5-10 mph breeze from the East. Frankly, I hadn't intended to ride 40 miles; however, once I hit the road, I just didn't want to stop riding.
Along the ride, I encountered a traffic accident scene, cruised past Destrehan Plantation, did some shopping at the new Dollar General in St. Rose (trail mix and sports drink), took a snack break at Rivertown, watched sheriff's deputies in 8 patrol cars meet & prep for a drug raid, watched the oil tanker Ficus sail round a riverbend on it's way to a terminal upriver and passed about 15 or so other cyclists on the Bill Kellor / Mississippi River Levee trail.If you'd like to see the route of my ride, I charted it on Dave Ploch's 2wheeltech.com bike route mapping website.
Larry
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Reasons People Don't Go Cycling
While browsing some of the up and coming sites on the web this morning (as per Alexa), I came across a site that creates charts from database information provided by users (Swivel).
I noticed a search box on Swivel and decided to see if anyone had submitted data related to cycling. Interestingly, I found this chart featuring the reasons people give for not riding their bicycles. Supposedly, the data comes from the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (sfbike.org) which is a pretty respectable cycling advocacy organization. Unfortunately, when I searched their site to verify the data references, I failed to find any mention of the data. It's a big site so it's possible I just ran the wrong seach keywords...
Anyhow, here's a table that corresponds with the chart above. The table lists each of the complete responses (rather than the abbreviated ones shown above).
Larry
I noticed a search box on Swivel and decided to see if anyone had submitted data related to cycling. Interestingly, I found this chart featuring the reasons people give for not riding their bicycles. Supposedly, the data comes from the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (sfbike.org) which is a pretty respectable cycling advocacy organization. Unfortunately, when I searched their site to verify the data references, I failed to find any mention of the data. It's a big site so it's possible I just ran the wrong seach keywords...Anyhow, here's a table that corresponds with the chart above. The table lists each of the complete responses (rather than the abbreviated ones shown above).
| Reason Given For Not Cycling | Percent of Responses |
| Weather | 15 % |
| Worried about bike theft | 14 % |
| Worried about safety | 13 % |
| Can | 10 % |
| Street conditions (potholes / tracks / etc.) | 9 % |
| I ride as much as I want | 8 % |
| Other | 7 % |
| Too far to travel where I need to go | 6 % |
| Not enough bike lanes | 6 % |
| Too hilly | 5 % |
| Bike lanes don | 4 % |
| Too busy / no time | 3 % |
Larry
Friday, November 24, 2006
Folding Bike Videos
The other day, I was asked if there were videos online demonstrating how to fold or unfold a Montague folding bike. Since I wasn't aware of one, I created a video to show the folding method for all Montague's full size folding mountain bikes. While I was at it, I decided to do the same for the Giatex series of bikes and the new, ultralite magnesium bike I'm offering for $169 (I ran out of decent light before I could demo Mobiky's folding method).
In the event that my readers would find this info useful, I decided to post the videos here first. Let me know what you think or if you'd like to see more videos.
More about the 23 lb Magnesium folding bike...
More about full size folding mountain bikes like Montague's MX or Paratrooper
More about the uni-size folding bikes from Giatex that fit the needs of almost any bicycle rider...
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
In the event that my readers would find this info useful, I decided to post the videos here first. Let me know what you think or if you'd like to see more videos.
More about the 23 lb Magnesium folding bike...
More about full size folding mountain bikes like Montague's MX or Paratrooper
More about the uni-size folding bikes from Giatex that fit the needs of almost any bicycle rider...
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
17 Environmental Ambassadors Bicycle California Coastline
To draw attention to sustainable transportation and safeguarding the environment, 17 naturalists from Jean-Michel Cousteau's "Ambassadors of the Environment" (AOTE) Environmental Education program are biking from San Fransisco to San Diego along the California coast. During the journey, the bicyclists are visiting 30 schools, holding workshops and presenting photos shot during the tour.More info...
http://aotesustainabilitybiketour.blogspot.com
http://aote.orgRespectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
1st Portion Of Virginia Capital Trail Opens
This July, the State of Virginia broke ground on the of the Virginia Capital Trail, a new long distance bike trail that will run 54 miles from Williamsburg and Richmond. Earlier this week, the 2.9 mile Greensprings Trail (the 1st segment of the Virginia Capital Trail) opened near Jamestown in advance of the 2007 celebration that will commerate the 400th anniversary of the settlement.Construction of this first trail segment cost $3.2 million due to right of way acquisitions and construction of 2 wooden bridges crossing wetlands (one bridge alone was 1200' in length). When complete the paved, 10' wide trail will follow the James River and Virginia's Route 5 corridor.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Seeing L.A.'s Christmas Lights By Bike
If you've ever wanted to bicycle through the Christmas lights display in L.A.'s Griffith Park with your kids, you'll have to wait another year. The one mile long display is only open to cyclists for one night and last night was it. For Bike Night, no cars were allowed on the route. There was a family lane so parents could ride slowly with their children; another lane was reserved for "avid" cyclists.
If you are in L.A. and have a car (hmmm), you can ride through the display without fear of hitting any cyclists from today through Saturday, Dec. 30, 2006. The display is open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.http://dwpLightFestival.com
Respectfully,Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
The Trails of Ventura County
Did you know that L.A.'s Ventura County has 3 connected bike trails that run from the coast East to Ojai? The Omer Rans trail runs along the coastline, the Ventura River Trail runs through the heart of Ventura, connecting with the Ojai Valley Trail and running to the center of Ojai. Portions of the trail wind along the Ventura riverbed and through woods dotted with oak trees. Here's more.
Omer Rains Trail
8 mile level, paved trail urban trail along a wide promenade on the Pacific Coastline. The trail connects the San Buenaventura State Peach with the Emma Wood State Beach, winding past sand dunes, the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Surfer's Point, shops and even under the famous Ventura Pier.
Ventura River Trail
This 6.3 mile asphalt bike & pedestrian trail follows the Southern Pacific right of way through the City of Ventura from Main Street to Foster Park.
Ojai Valley Trail
Multi-use 9.5 mile Ventura County, CA rail trail along a former Southern Pacific Railway that paralleled Highway 33 from Foster Park,
on the outskirts of Ventura, to Fox Street, Ojai. A post-and-rail wood fence separates the wood-chip bridle path for horseback riders from the paved bike & pedestrian portion of the trail. Dogs are allowed on the trail only when leashed.
If you're thinking about bicycling to Ojai, the best seasons to make the ride are Fall or Spring. Bicycling to the Ojai Music Festival in early June is fine too.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Omer Rains Trail8 mile level, paved trail urban trail along a wide promenade on the Pacific Coastline. The trail connects the San Buenaventura State Peach with the Emma Wood State Beach, winding past sand dunes, the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Surfer's Point, shops and even under the famous Ventura Pier.
Ventura River TrailThis 6.3 mile asphalt bike & pedestrian trail follows the Southern Pacific right of way through the City of Ventura from Main Street to Foster Park.
Ojai Valley Trail
Multi-use 9.5 mile Ventura County, CA rail trail along a former Southern Pacific Railway that paralleled Highway 33 from Foster Park,
on the outskirts of Ventura, to Fox Street, Ojai. A post-and-rail wood fence separates the wood-chip bridle path for horseback riders from the paved bike & pedestrian portion of the trail. Dogs are allowed on the trail only when leashed.If you're thinking about bicycling to Ojai, the best seasons to make the ride are Fall or Spring. Bicycling to the Ojai Music Festival in early June is fine too.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
2 Buffalo, NY Bike Trail Crimes Make America's Most Wanted
America's Most Wanted will be airing a story on Saturday, December 2nd about the unknown assailant that raped a women several years ago and murdered another several months ago on a Buffalo, NY area bike trail. Although crimes like these are rare on bike trails, the national media attention is bound to fuel debates over creating new bike trails in communities like Houston where proposed trails are already drawing fire.By the way, if you happen to know the rapist, you can do like hundreds of others have done this week and call the hotline police have established to field tips. The number is 1-877-277-1990.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Court Order Stops San Francisco Bike Projects
Last week, for the second time in 5 months, a San Francisco Superior Court judge froze plans that would have enriched San Francisco with more bicycle lanes and bike parking as well as opened San Francisco's Municipal Railroad transit system to bicyclists.
Ruling that San Francisco's Bicycle Plan cannot be implemented without first completing a state mandated environmental impact review, Superior Court Judge Peter Busch's injunction means that bike facility improvements will not occur for at least 4 months (the minimal time to complete a study); however, environmental reviews have been known to take several years to complete.
The legal suit was filed by local groups that believed the city was falling sway to bike fanatics. Using 2000 Census figures showing that only 1% of commuters bicycle to work, the anti bike coalition argued that a small number of citizens were making the city spend millions on improvements that few people would use. Unfortunately, the anti bike group conveniently neglected other governmental studies proving the value of bicycle improvements.
While it's true that 1.1% of commuters in the San Francisco MSA over 16 years of age used bicycles as their primary means of transportation, that figure did not include kids under 16 that rode their bikes to school or anyone that used a bike to commute to a lesser degree than some other form of transportation (they only commute by bike sometimes). If these other users are taken into account, the true percentage of people that used bicycles for utilitarian purposes (like getting to work, school or for running errands) could exceed 10%. In fact, according to a study* sponsored by the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the federal Bureau of Transportation Statistics, over 27% of the US population over the age of 16 rode a bicycle at least once during the summer of 2002. Since bicycle usage in San Francisco is higher than in most places around the country, it's reasonable to assume the actual figure for bicycle users is in excess of 30% or 1.2 million people in the San Francisco MSA.
* 2002 National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Ruling that San Francisco's Bicycle Plan cannot be implemented without first completing a state mandated environmental impact review, Superior Court Judge Peter Busch's injunction means that bike facility improvements will not occur for at least 4 months (the minimal time to complete a study); however, environmental reviews have been known to take several years to complete.
The legal suit was filed by local groups that believed the city was falling sway to bike fanatics. Using 2000 Census figures showing that only 1% of commuters bicycle to work, the anti bike coalition argued that a small number of citizens were making the city spend millions on improvements that few people would use. Unfortunately, the anti bike group conveniently neglected other governmental studies proving the value of bicycle improvements.
While it's true that 1.1% of commuters in the San Francisco MSA over 16 years of age used bicycles as their primary means of transportation, that figure did not include kids under 16 that rode their bikes to school or anyone that used a bike to commute to a lesser degree than some other form of transportation (they only commute by bike sometimes). If these other users are taken into account, the true percentage of people that used bicycles for utilitarian purposes (like getting to work, school or for running errands) could exceed 10%. In fact, according to a study* sponsored by the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the federal Bureau of Transportation Statistics, over 27% of the US population over the age of 16 rode a bicycle at least once during the summer of 2002. Since bicycle usage in San Francisco is higher than in most places around the country, it's reasonable to assume the actual figure for bicycle users is in excess of 30% or 1.2 million people in the San Francisco MSA.
* 2002 National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Balancing Mind & Body Requires Working Both
A lot has been written of late about the obesity epidemic gripping America due to all the time our bodies spend at rest while we stare at television, browse online, email, video game, instant messaging, etc. Frankly, I'm not immune either. All too often, I find myself seduced by the siren song of the Internet and end up putting my bicycling off for another day. I'd like to think that I'm managing a rather shaky balance between my indoor and outdoor pursuits; however, my muscle tone tells me otherwise.
My addiction to the Internet is nothing new. In fact, although I just registered today as a member of the Technorati profile, I've been online since 1993, building & maintaining websites since 1996 and blogging since Pyra launched Blogger.com pre Y2K (which is why each of my blog postings end with "posted by Web"). I suppose that means I qualify as a geezer to some but, like Dennis Hopper, this Baby Boomer isn't ready for the rocker anytime soon.
When I'm out riding bike trails and only encounter another cyclist or two, I sometimes wonder if I'm beating a dead horse. Is Humanity destined to become a feeble bodied species that relies on technologies understood only by a small few? Surely, the Internet will continue to develop, becoming even more engrossing in our lives. It's even likely that the day will come when virtual bicycling will rival being out in the open. Certainly, there are advantages to not having to worry about flat tires or getting squashed like a bug by some reckless motorist...
For the record, I for one hope that a virtual cycling experience is NEVER as good as the real thing. Spending life glued to a screen is not a life in balance. As much as we must feed our minds, so must the body be fed.I'm going to end this post with a challenge: shut down the computer and go take a spin - even if it's around the block. A bike ride might be a calm adventure but adventure it is. Relish it.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Why Folding Bikes Are Now Becoming Popular In America
Although purchases of folding bikes have been growing rapidly in the USA over the last several years, most Americans have never seen a bike that folds. In fact, even though Californian David Hon was among the first to bring folding bikes to mass production in the late 1970's, folding bicycles are more likely to be seen on the streets of Hong Kong or London than in the USA. Surprised? Don't be.
While the oil crisis of the 1970's (click graph to enlarge) led consumers worldwide to cut their fuel consumption, in the USA, long commutes and strong oil reserves made it politically impossible to impose massive, new taxes on oil at the pump. Meanwhile, other industrialized nations with little domestic oil production (like France, Japan & Germany) were doubling the cost of gasoline and directing the taxes to enhance their mass transit and high speed rail systems, creating a demand for ways to get to train stations, subways and bus stops more quickly. Enter the folding bike. With Americans (on the other hand) feeling less pressure to embrace mass transit, minimal public funding for mass transit systems in the USA and the long commutes due to American suburban sprawl, most Americans have continued to use their personal motor vehicles for transportation. As a result, only 5-7% of Americans use mass transit and less than 1% bicycle to work to this day. The 40% of Americans that do own bicycles use them primarily for recreation and fitness.
In the last few years, spikes in the cost of gasoline (click graph to enlarge) have led more Americans to look into commuting by bicycle; however, design improvements, falling production costs and the Internet are the real factors fueling interest in folding bikes in the USA. Through online bicycle forums and reviews, cyclists are learning about new folders that take only 3 seconds to fold and roll when folded (Mobiky Genius), folding bikes that "stretch" so one bike will suit a cyclist from childhood to adult (Giatex BICI & CHIBA) and even full size mountain bikes that fold so they can be transported inside a car trunk (Montague MX & Paratrooper). Even those that bicycle only for recreation can appreciate features like these.
If you have comments on this topic, let's hear them.
NOTES:
- Fuel/Diesel/Petrol prices across Europe
- USA Today: US Gas Costs Aren't Really High
- World Oil Price Chronology: 1970-2000
- Crude Oil and Gasoline Prices Timeline: 2001-2006
- Why gasoline prices go up and down
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
World-Class-Bike-Trails.blogspot.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Using Common Sense On Remote Bike Trails
Let's face it: the news media feeds on fear.Bike trails are safe; however, we're bound to see more stories of trail incidents pop up in the future. Why? More bike trails and trail users makes any criminal activity on a bike trail more news worthy, particularly if the activity is rare.
Naturally, some of the stories will be true but others will be false (like the Modesto, CA woman that cried rape).
Unfortunately, people often dwell on the negative, causing media feeding frenzies on unusual stories like violence on a bike trail. Ultimately, such media coverage triggers irrational, knee jerk reactions (such as Clarence, NY's purchase of 12 security cameras as a result of a jogger's murder or parents objecting to a bike trail near their school).
My Bike Trail Safety TipsGiven the low incidence of crime on bike trails, perhaps a safety discussion should dwell more on the appropriate gear and attitude for bicycling on remote trails. For example...
- WEAR A HELMET!
In 3 decades of riding bike trails, the only negative incident I ever had was when a guy in a group of cyclists rode into me on a trail. Rather than looking ahead, he was talking to his friends and plowed into me head on. I went over the handlebars and landed on my head. Gladly, I had a helmet on. Other than neck strain, I was okay. Without the helmet, I could have died. (BTW, I would have rode off the trail if the trail was not bordered by large boulders.)
- Wear Gloves
If you fall, gloves will decrease the potential of cutting your hands. They also cushion road shock from riding, decreasing incidence of carpal tunnel.
- Wear Sunglasses or Safety GlassesNaturally, when riding in bright sunlight, sunglasses protect the eyes from harmful UV rays; however, glasses also lessen the chance of a bug or road debris getting in your eyes (I know people that crashed while riding because of this). When riding in low light conditions, amber safety glasses sharpen vision too.
- Use a Bike Bell or Horn
Ride a bike trail and you will encounter joggers, walkers, rollerbladders, etc. Most of these folks get startled when bicyclists approach from behind some can even turn into your path without warning - because they don't know you're coming. Don't rely on saying "On your right"; get a bell or horn & USE IT.
- Carry a First Aid Kit
I ride with a first aid kit - for myself & my bike. The kit includes a few bandaids, antiseptic cream, a bike pump, spare tire tube, wrench kit, tire irons, patch kit and my cell phone.
- Pack Water, Snacks & Windbreaker
A cyclist is far more likely to suffer injury from heat stroke, dehydration, or hypothermia than from a criminal act. Take snacks & the jacket in the event you become injured in a remote area.
- STAY ALERT!
While the weather may be gorgeous and there may be beautiful scenery all around, a cyclist must stay alert even on a bike trail. Watch out for potholes, debris, animals and other trail users because any of them can cause an accident or injury. And if you see someone ahead that makes the hair go up on the back of your scalp, guess what? Follow your gut & avoid them. Better safe than sorry.I'd love to hear other tips from readers like you so feel free to comment.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Taking Folding Bike On Cruise Ships
 Cruises can be a great way to visit a variety of destinations that are otherwise hard to reach. Since cruise ships are again calling here in New Orleans, I thought I'd look into taking a folding bike aboard. Happily, I learned that 3 out of 4 cruise lines calling on New Orleans allow passengers to bring aboard their folding bikes. Here's more information: | |||
| Cruise Line | Telephone | Folding Bikes OK? | Tips/Suggestions |
| Carnival | 888-CARNIVAL | Yes | Must be in checked luggage. |
| Norwegian | 866-234-0292 | Maybe | May require signed waiver. Ask the ship coordinator first. |
| Royal Caribbean | 866-562-7625 | No | Passengers are not allowed to bring bikes of any kind aboard. |
| Princess | 800-PRINCESS | Yes | Princess suggests that passengers bring their folding bikes aboard as a carry on. |
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Stop Me - The Smith's Bicycle Video
A Bicycle Video By The Smiths (circa 1987)
Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve
Heard this one before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve heard this one before
Nothings changed
I still love you, oh, I still love you
...only slightly, only slightly less than I used to, my love
I was delayed, I was way-laid
An emergency stop
I smelt the last ten seconds of life
I crashed down on the crossbar
And the pain was enough to make
A shy, bald, Buddhist reflect
And plan a mass murder
Who said lied I'd to her?
Oh, who said I'd lied because I never? I never!
Who said I'd lied because I never?
I was detained, I was restrained
And broke my spleen
And broke my knee
(and then he really laced into me)
Friday night in out-patients
Who said I'd lied to her?
Oh, who said I'd lied ? - because I never, I never
Who said I'd lied ? - because I never
Oh, so I drank one
It became four
And when I fell on the floor ...
...I drank more
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that you've
Heard this one before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve heard this one before
Nothings changed
I still love you, oh, I still love you
...only slightly, only slightly less than I used to, my love
Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve
Heard this one before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve heard this one before
Nothings changed
I still love you, oh, I still love you
...only slightly, only slightly less than I used to, my love
I was delayed, I was way-laid
An emergency stop
I smelt the last ten seconds of life
I crashed down on the crossbar
And the pain was enough to make
A shy, bald, Buddhist reflect
And plan a mass murder
Who said lied I'd to her?
Oh, who said I'd lied because I never? I never!
Who said I'd lied because I never?
I was detained, I was restrained
And broke my spleen
And broke my knee
(and then he really laced into me)
Friday night in out-patients
Who said I'd lied to her?
Oh, who said I'd lied ? - because I never, I never
Who said I'd lied ? - because I never
Oh, so I drank one
It became four
And when I fell on the floor ...
...I drank more
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that you've
Heard this one before
Stop me, oh, stop me
Stop me if you think that youve heard this one before
Nothings changed
I still love you, oh, I still love you
...only slightly, only slightly less than I used to, my love
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Doodle 'n Daddy Doin' Da Do
The weather could not be more beautiful today in New Orleans and I'd love nothing better than to take a bike ride in the 67 degree, bright, blue sky weather. Alas, I have a house to paint and a private concert to attend tonight so I'll have to postpone that ride.
For your viewing pleasure, I'm embedding this video that my wife shot this morning of Doodle & I. I know; it's silly but that's part of being a daddy.
Larry
For your viewing pleasure, I'm embedding this video that my wife shot this morning of Doodle & I. I know; it's silly but that's part of being a daddy.
Larry
Friday, November 03, 2006
Friday Bicycle Bits
Here are some interesting bicycle related stories from this week:
Chicago Suburb Funds Bike Route Plan
Elgin is spending close to $100,000 for a master plan for bike routes. The city hopes to have trails resulting from the plan in 5 years.
Elgin, IL pays for bike route plan
New LA Trail Opens
One day, LA will have connected bike trails leading around the city. Another short trail is now in the network.
LA gets another bike trail
Bridge Trails To Nowhere
An overly wide & very expensive bridge with a bike path happens to be on the route of a planned but unfunded freeway to nowhere. Coincidence?
$59 million bike trail bridge a freeway in disguise
New Rail Trail Includes Tweed Trestle
The rail trail conversion of an old railway bridge over Scotland's River Tweed will soon provide a more scenic pathway for locals and visitors bicycling from Walkerburn to Innerleithen.
Bridge is not too far for Borders cyclists
How Walkable/Bikeable is your neighborhood?
According to this USA Today story, kids may have discovered something else trick or treating this year - their neighborhoods.
We're raising kids who can't get around on foot!
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Chicago Suburb Funds Bike Route Plan
Elgin is spending close to $100,000 for a master plan for bike routes. The city hopes to have trails resulting from the plan in 5 years.
Elgin, IL pays for bike route plan
New LA Trail Opens
One day, LA will have connected bike trails leading around the city. Another short trail is now in the network.
LA gets another bike trail
Bridge Trails To Nowhere
An overly wide & very expensive bridge with a bike path happens to be on the route of a planned but unfunded freeway to nowhere. Coincidence?
$59 million bike trail bridge a freeway in disguise
New Rail Trail Includes Tweed Trestle
The rail trail conversion of an old railway bridge over Scotland's River Tweed will soon provide a more scenic pathway for locals and visitors bicycling from Walkerburn to Innerleithen.
Bridge is not too far for Borders cyclists
How Walkable/Bikeable is your neighborhood?
According to this USA Today story, kids may have discovered something else trick or treating this year - their neighborhoods.
We're raising kids who can't get around on foot!
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
UK Mayor Says "Start Bicycling!"
The British government is supporting the creation of bicycle and hiking paths throughout the UK. Recently the Mayor Jeff Dutton of Oxmoor, Huntingdon urged locals to step out of the car and get on their bike when traveling into the town centre.Said Mayor Dutton: "I would urge all residents to use the new cycle path (next to Conygear Park; see drawing of park, right). It is a quick and safe route to the town. I think when people see it there they will use it.
At the moment the streets are very congested and very busy near the park... The cycle route will take away the risk of accidents for cyclists and will protect young lives especially."Huntingdonshire is located North of London, England near Cambridge. The region was home to Olivier Cromwell and Queen Katherine of Aragon.
CYCLING: Get on your bikes, urges mayor
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Iron Curtain Bike Path
Although it's been in the making since the early 1990's, I just learned of the Iron Curtain Bike Trail, a trail that will soon stretch 4,250+ miles through 20 countries in Europe along the former path of the Iron Curtain. The first portion of the trail opened in August; here are more details.
After World War II, Stalin was concerned about masses of Eastern Europeans fleeing from the puppet "satellite" states he had carved out of Europe for the Soviet Union. To stem the human tide, he had troops erect a fence stretching from the Artic Circle to the Black Sea. Winston Churchill nicknamed this fence the Iron Curtain and the name stuck.
The Fall of the Wall: Sopronpuszta By the end of the 80's, bankrupt by disastrous economic policies and military spending, the Soviet Union could no longer control Eastern Europe as it once did. On rumors that it was easier to cross into Western Europe via Hungary, 60,000+ East Germans had massed in Hungary on vacation visas with no intentions of returning. By August of 1989, the visas of more East Germans were expiring and many began to face mass deportations. Meanwhile, opposition parties advocating democratic reforms, freedom to travel and a unified Europe had scheduled the Pan-European Picnic, a rally that would be held in a field near the Hungarian-Austrian border. The picnic drew 15,000-20,000 people. East Germans at the rally began massing at Sopronpuszta, an old border crossing. As the desperate crowd grew, the few border guards on hand could not contain them and the gates flew open. Although only 600 East Germans escaped West at Sopronpuszta, it inspired several hundred small groups of East Germans to make their own freedom crossings over the following weeks. Within months, this led to Hungary opening its borders to the West. In turn, Hungary's actions sparked mass demonstrations in East Germany which led to the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 10, 1989.
With the demise of the Soviet's Eastern Bloc, the Iron Curtain became a painful reminder that many people wanted to bury; however, former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev recognized the historic and economic value of memorializing the Wall. Early in the 1990's, Mr. Gorbachev proposed that a trail for walkers and cyclists be created along the path of the former Iron Curtain.
In 2001, a German Green Party activist and bicyclist named Michael Cramer organized several group bike rides along the former path of the Berlin Wall to commemorate the 40th anniversary of its construction. Berliners quickly realized that what remained of the wall should be preserved as a memorial against violence, tyranny and the abuse of power. The wall corridor was placed under historic preservation status and a series of 20 bike routes along the wall greenway were mapped out as the Mauerweg or Wall Trail. Michael Cramer was elected to serve as a member of the European Parliament. In 2003, he proposed that the EU create a bicycling and hiking trail along the length of the former Iron Curtain to commemorate Europe's division and peaceful reunification. The idea was approved and the EU began funding trail construction in 2005.
15 km Now Open
On August 28th at Sopronpuszta, the first segment of the trail opened on the spot where the old Iron Curtain fell. Signs along the bicycle and foot path provide historical information. The 15 km stretch between Felsõszolnok and Fertõtó will soon be joined by other trail segments along the Curtain.
Iron Curtain Trail Route
When complete, the Iron Curtain Trail will stretch from the coast of the Arctic Ocean, where Norway touches Russia, slip through the Arctic tundra of the Russian border with Finland, skip through the former tsarist capital of St Petersburg, skirt around the Baltic coast of the former Soviet republics of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, follow the Polish coast, plunge down the old border between eastern and western Germany, circle around the Austrian border with the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia, follow the border between the former Yugoslavia and Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria, along the banks of the Danube, continue along the border between Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey and end at the Black Sea. Cycling the entire route is expected to take most bicyclists over two months.
A brochure with maps in German and English covering the entire route is expected to be ready by 2009, the 20th anniversary of the eastern European revolution and the 5th anniversary of the EU enlargement by the central and eastern European countries.
More Information:
IronCurtainProject.com
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
In 2001, a German Green Party activist and bicyclist named Michael Cramer organized several group bike rides along the former path of the Berlin Wall to commemorate the 40th anniversary of its construction. Berliners quickly realized that what remained of the wall should be preserved as a memorial against violence, tyranny and the abuse of power. The wall corridor was placed under historic preservation status and a series of 20 bike routes along the wall greenway were mapped out as the Mauerweg or Wall Trail. Michael Cramer was elected to serve as a member of the European Parliament. In 2003, he proposed that the EU create a bicycling and hiking trail along the length of the former Iron Curtain to commemorate Europe's division and peaceful reunification. The idea was approved and the EU began funding trail construction in 2005.
15 km Now Open
On August 28th at Sopronpuszta, the first segment of the trail opened on the spot where the old Iron Curtain fell. Signs along the bicycle and foot path provide historical information. The 15 km stretch between Felsõszolnok and Fertõtó will soon be joined by other trail segments along the Curtain.
Iron Curtain Trail Route
When complete, the Iron Curtain Trail will stretch from the coast of the Arctic Ocean, where Norway touches Russia, slip through the Arctic tundra of the Russian border with Finland, skip through the former tsarist capital of St Petersburg, skirt around the Baltic coast of the former Soviet republics of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, follow the Polish coast, plunge down the old border between eastern and western Germany, circle around the Austrian border with the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia, follow the border between the former Yugoslavia and Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria, along the banks of the Danube, continue along the border between Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey and end at the Black Sea. Cycling the entire route is expected to take most bicyclists over two months.
A brochure with maps in German and English covering the entire route is expected to be ready by 2009, the 20th anniversary of the eastern European revolution and the 5th anniversary of the EU enlargement by the central and eastern European countries.
More Information:
IronCurtainProject.com
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Bicycle Facts & Figures: Stolen Bikes
This morning, I was browsing the facts & figures page of the League of American Bicyclists website (a great organization, I might add) and I saw a disturbing statistic. According to the National Bike Registry, about 870,000 bikes were stolen in the USA in 2001 (the latest figure available). The number is an estimate because no one really knows the total but educated guesses are based on tripling the number of stolen bikes reported by the FBI.Whether thieves are stealing bikes, cars or anything else, theft is a crime of opportunity. The easier the opportunity, the greater the likelihood of theft. Remove the opportunity and the the number of thefts will fall.
Folding bikes are more secure because they do not have to left in harm's way. Rather than locking your bike up outside to a streetpost, fence, railing, etc., simply fold the bike and store it in a secure place out of sight (like beneath the desk in your office or in a closet).If you live in a high crime area, why worry unnecessarily whether your bike will still be outside when you go to use it again? Get yourself a bike that folds and leave the worries behind!
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Weekend Tricks & Halloween Treats
It's Halloween and I'm just getting in from taking the kids trick or treatin'. Our 9 month old was dressed as a bumble bee. When she raspberried, we said she was a buzzin'. The 7 year old was Harry Potter w/cape, glasses, lighning birthmark and a truly irritating magic wand (that sounded off with every touch & turn) too. Both had fun and we came home with lots of loot. Too bad our 9 mth old has no teeth; I guess mommy & daddy will have to eat her candy...
Halloween with the kids was a nice change from the sadness which consumed my weekend. On Friday, I got a phone call that a good friend had died. Fr. Tarantino, Pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, had a massive heart attack the day before and passed away. He was just 60 yrs old.
Fr. Tarantino and I became friends due to the Jazz Mass that he fostered at Holy Rosary. I loved the way in which the jazz music added to the celebration of the mass and wanted to broadcast the masses online. We never reached that stage; however, over the years, I managed several websites representing various ministries of the church. Every so often, Father would ask me over for lunch and we always had great conversations. Father saw me through a divorce, annulment, 2nd marriage and even baptized 2 of my children. I will miss him.
On Saturday, my brother called. He had tickets to the Saint's football game and invited me to attend. Given Fr. Tarantino's death, I wasn't really in the mood to go; however, I wanted to spend some time with my brother so I agreed.
As gorgeous as the weather was Sunday, I had to get a ride in before the football game so I bicycled down to the Superdome. About an hour before kickoff, I got on the bike and hit the lakefront trail. A stiff breeze out of the Northeast slowed my progress along the trail and I had to divert at Clearview due to trail closures associated with the rebuilding of the hurricane levee.
From Causeway Blvd, I was back on the trail all the way to the end at the Bucktown Coast Guard station. I stopped once at the top of the levee and noticed salt marsh mosquitoes flying all around me. Apparently, they were in the grass and I had disturbed them; these mosquitoes are persistent too.
I rode the 17 St. Canal bike path to Veterans and through the desolate, Katrina ruined streets of Lakeview. I took Canal Blvd to the Cemeteries. Traffic was light so I ended up riding Canal Street all the way into town. I rode to City Hall where my dad's car was parked, folded up the bike, placed it in the trunk of his Crown Victoria and walked across the street to the Dome. The football game was just beginning and, in no time at all, the Saints were behind 14-0. Things never got better but the endorphins released by bicycling didn't wear off until at least the second half of the game; thus, the Saint's embarrassing defeat really didn't bother me.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Halloween with the kids was a nice change from the sadness which consumed my weekend. On Friday, I got a phone call that a good friend had died. Fr. Tarantino, Pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, had a massive heart attack the day before and passed away. He was just 60 yrs old.Fr. Tarantino and I became friends due to the Jazz Mass that he fostered at Holy Rosary. I loved the way in which the jazz music added to the celebration of the mass and wanted to broadcast the masses online. We never reached that stage; however, over the years, I managed several websites representing various ministries of the church. Every so often, Father would ask me over for lunch and we always had great conversations. Father saw me through a divorce, annulment, 2nd marriage and even baptized 2 of my children. I will miss him.
On Saturday, my brother called. He had tickets to the Saint's football game and invited me to attend. Given Fr. Tarantino's death, I wasn't really in the mood to go; however, I wanted to spend some time with my brother so I agreed.
As gorgeous as the weather was Sunday, I had to get a ride in before the football game so I bicycled down to the Superdome. About an hour before kickoff, I got on the bike and hit the lakefront trail. A stiff breeze out of the Northeast slowed my progress along the trail and I had to divert at Clearview due to trail closures associated with the rebuilding of the hurricane levee.
From Causeway Blvd, I was back on the trail all the way to the end at the Bucktown Coast Guard station. I stopped once at the top of the levee and noticed salt marsh mosquitoes flying all around me. Apparently, they were in the grass and I had disturbed them; these mosquitoes are persistent too.
I rode the 17 St. Canal bike path to Veterans and through the desolate, Katrina ruined streets of Lakeview. I took Canal Blvd to the Cemeteries. Traffic was light so I ended up riding Canal Street all the way into town. I rode to City Hall where my dad's car was parked, folded up the bike, placed it in the trunk of his Crown Victoria and walked across the street to the Dome. The football game was just beginning and, in no time at all, the Saints were behind 14-0. Things never got better but the endorphins released by bicycling didn't wear off until at least the second half of the game; thus, the Saint's embarrassing defeat really didn't bother me.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
$656,000 Approved For Bike Trail In Chicago Suburb
"Work will proceed on the DuPage River Bicycle Trail, a project that has been in the works for about five years, thanks to a state grant announced Monday. The Plainfield Park District will receive a $656,000 grant through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program -- about half the amount the district requested from the state earlier this year and was denied."
Plainfield, Illinois is about 30 miles Southeast of downtown Chicago.
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Upstate New York Bike Trail Gets Funds For Completion
The long-awaited recreational bike/pedestrian path between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake is back on track. Thanks to a $1.43 million boost in funding, trail construction will push the trail forward from Averyville Station to Union Depot. (An exhaustive trail study conducted back in 2001 by the Bikes Belong Coalition that compared the costs and benefits of the then proposed Saranac Lake - Lake Placid Recreational Path to 61 other rail trails concluded that the trail was feasible and would become a significant enhancement to local recreation and transportation.)Bike path money connects Lake Placid, Saranac Lake
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
The UK: An Ever More Bike Friendly Country
The UK is becoming ever more bicycle friendly. Across the country, more than 75% of the population lives within two miles of a National Cycle Network (NCN) bike route (Source: Sustrans). Many of the routes link to train stations which increasingly offer better bike parking facilities and bicycle rentals; folding bikes can also be taken on any train at any time without a reservation. As a result, it's becoming ever easier to travel to more places at least in part by bicycle.
More Info:
http://www.railwaypeople.com/rail-news-articles/annual-cycle-rail-awards-1177.html
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Ph: 504-324-2492
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
More Info:
http://www.railwaypeople.com/rail-news-articles/annual-cycle-rail-awards-1177.html
Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Ph: 504-324-2492
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
$349 Folding Bike Including Carry Rack & Bag
If you're in the market for a folding bike, here's a deal that's hard to pass up:
A 20" folder that rolls when folded for just $349 including rear carry rack, carry bag & free shipping!
The folding bike is the Giatex BICI 660, a bicycle that's quickly becoming popular with families because it adjusts to the size of most riders - from kids to adults. As a result, a child can continue to ride the same bike even as they grow. Also, since most families don't ride all at the same time, there's no need to buy a separate bike for each family member (more room in the garage, dads).
As standard equipment, the Giatex BICI 660 comes featured with a 52 tooth chainring, quick release front wheel, alloy wheels, stainless steel & painted steel frame, alloy seatpost, Shimano derailleur, folding pedals, kickstand, fenders, bicycle bell and more.
At this price, it's worth buying a folding bike and keeping it in the trunk of the car just for emergencies. If the car breaks down, just zip it out of the carry bag and go for help.
By the way, the Giatex normally retails for $478.99 with the carry rack & bag or $399 without so snag this deal now while you can!
Learn more about other folding bikes starting from $309
Cheers,
Larry Lagarde
A 20" folder that rolls when folded for just $349 including rear carry rack, carry bag & free shipping!
The folding bike is the Giatex BICI 660, a bicycle that's quickly becoming popular with families because it adjusts to the size of most riders - from kids to adults. As a result, a child can continue to ride the same bike even as they grow. Also, since most families don't ride all at the same time, there's no need to buy a separate bike for each family member (more room in the garage, dads).As standard equipment, the Giatex BICI 660 comes featured with a 52 tooth chainring, quick release front wheel, alloy wheels, stainless steel & painted steel frame, alloy seatpost, Shimano derailleur, folding pedals, kickstand, fenders, bicycle bell and more.
At this price, it's worth buying a folding bike and keeping it in the trunk of the car just for emergencies. If the car breaks down, just zip it out of the carry bag and go for help.
By the way, the Giatex normally retails for $478.99 with the carry rack & bag or $399 without so snag this deal now while you can!
Learn more about other folding bikes starting from $309
Cheers,
Larry Lagarde
Monday, October 16, 2006
CLIX™ Bike Wheel Skewers Safer & Faster
Almost a century after the invention of the quick release wheel skewer by Tullio Campagnolo, a new system will soon be available that instantly locks bike wheels to the fork on installation.Invented by Montague Inventive Technologies (a company known for their full size, performance mountain bikes that fold), the CLIX™ attaches and releases bicycle wheels safely, quickly and free of guesswork. Unlike the standard, two-sided quick-release system by Campagnolo that requires adjustment on both sides of the skewer to lock, the CLIX™ releases from the frame with a strong push on one side of the hub. When attaching a wheel to the bike frame, the CLIX™ makes a "click" to signal that the wheel is securely in place. Even if a user forgets to lock the CLIX™ skewer into the closed position, the wheel will not fall off.
The CLIX™ received great reviews from Bicycle Retailer, Bike Europe and at Interbike. Also, Pacific Cycle Inc. is installing CLIX™ skewers onto many of their Mongoose bikes for 2008.
Larry
bicycle.ning.com/
RideTHISbike.com
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