Friday, June 17, 2011

Bike up an Appetite – Dine by Bicycle!



Looking for something fun and new to do for dinner some night? Plan to meet friends or your sweetie for a bicycle ride to a favorite local restaurant. Get a little dressed-up in something light and airy and share food and conversation with people you love. Saving money but still want to dine out? Warm summer evenings are perfect for picnics. Load your bike with food packed from home and dine out in a nearby park. Get some exercise in before by meeting friends for a 10 – 20 mile leisurely ride before digging in.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Bicycling in the Rain



Make your turns slowly and consistently; no jerky movements.

Water on the rims will lubricate your brake system making it hard to stop; to allow a greater distance for stopping.

Manhole covers or metal grates, painted traffic markings, and wet leaves can be very slick.

Protect yourself - Visibility can be limited during a storm; wear bright clothing.

Drip chain lube down into your brake and shifter cables to avoid rust.

Invest in a good rain jacket that covers your tush in the case you don't have fenders or your bike with fenders is out of commission. Showers Pass will be my next bike rain gear purchase.

Warm Weather Bicycling Tips



Always carry H2O! Install an extra water bottle cage to your bike frame.

If you get a flat, find shade to repair or replace your tube. This sometimes takes longer than it should and standing in the heat without the breeze from the bicycle can wear you out faster than you might think.

Consider wearing a light colored helmet with lots of vents. If you a dark colored helmet and can't afford purchasing a second, we suggest considering this option next time you buy. Remember: a helmet's life is three-five years, and if you do crash, always replace immediately.

Wear a pattern in muggy/hot weather to mask sweat stains. Floral patterns work especially well. -Simply Bike

Wear lighter colored clothing. Khakis, white, and pastels make for a cooler ride.

Wrap a cold bandana around your neck while riding.

Keep an extra H2O bottle in the freezer to grab on your way out.

Golf and tennis style shirts are often made with technical fabrics like Lycra and spandex. For those anti-spandex types, these styles are often formal enough to wear to the office and perfect for jaunts around town.

Ladies – wearing simple solid colored biking shorts under a skirt or dress guarantees a cool & breezy, non-flashy, yet fashionable fashionable ride.

Enjoy the ride and slow down.

IowaGoesByBicycle.com