Hi folks,
On the one hand, I get frustrated by folks who don't post to their blogs regularly. And so, I must apologize for my tardiness in posting. But on the other, I don't see much value in blogs full of nothing. And so, the reality is I haven't had much to write about!
It's been a slow month, as far as tour preparation. I try to get on the treadmill 2-3 times a week, and I continue to do my back strengthening/limbering exercises. But I haven't been on the bike at all, this month.
I have had some donations rolling in, which is great to see.
I also had to make a drive into Toronto last week, which gave me a great excuse to stop by MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-Op) and go shopping. I got myself some more gear at a good price. (Long cycling tights, cycling jacket, chain cleaning tool, cotton sleeping bag liner, and a sleeping pad - MEC equivalent to a therm-a-rest.) I still will need to pick up a tent in the spring, unless I borrow one from somewhere.
I am curious as to how many people use actual cycling jerseys (shirts) versus just plain cotton T-shirts. Do you really find it makes that big a difference?
thats all for now,
...art
7 years ago
7 comments:
Hi Art -
I was wondering how to go about setting up my own site/blog. People have been asking how I am doing as I prepare for this endeavor so I thought it would be a good idea to set one up. Plus it would be a way of me keeping a record of my progress (hehe, such as it is).
I am curious about biking gear too - especially the clothes. The less I have to spend on other things, the more I can donate to the cause. Although, if I don't have the best quality items, I may be hindering myself.
Anyway - that's it for now - except for one question...
Are you related to Ed Mulder, former interim NBTS dean/professor?
Thanks - Joanna
Well Joanna, your profile is set to private, so I can't send you email, so I can only hope you come back here to read my response.
First, no, not related to Ed Mulder. That's always an easy question to answer, as my Dad emigrated from Holland by himself.
To create a blog? There are tons of options. I took the easy way out and just clicked on the "create blog" link which should be at the top of this page. Or just go to www.blogger.com and click on the "create blog" link there. Or just go Here
(If I put in the link correctly!)
It's pretty user friendly. I'm a bit of a geek, so i tweaked my settings a bit to change around my layout, but you don't need to do that. They offer a whole bunch of optional blog layouts.
I'm not a pro biker by any stretch. So I may not be the best person to ask about gear. No hang on, actually I am a good person, since I won't tell you that you need all this gear.
Do get some good shorts. And yes, they cost $50, and yes it feels like you're wearing a diaper the first time you put it on. But after 1 hr on the bike, it makes a HUGE difference to have that padding! Tell the clerk in the store that you're going long distance, as some shorts are aimed at shorter distance commuters and have thinner padding.
Wind makes my eyes water, so to me good glasses are important, and they need to fit tight to my face to keep out the wind. But I found those for $10 at Zellers!!!
I have not bought any biking jerseys, I just am using cotton T-shirts. We'll see if the pro riders convince me on that front.
What else is there to worry about? Get a good jacket, sure.
best,
...art
Just wanted to add a couple comments about the benefits of wearing a jersey vs. t-shirt and about wearing cycling shorts as opposed to anything else: A cycling jersey fits relatively tightly to reduce the amount of fabric available to flap in the wind. Aerodynamics is thus very important, and when riding into a stiff headwind you will appreciate your jersey and pity those riding home in baggy t-shirts. Plus, it just breathes great and it's other purpose is to get the sweat away from your skin.
As far as cycling shorts (spandex go), as far as I am concerned this is one of the most important pieces (besides a good saddle) to finding as much comfort in your ride as possible. You may think that $80-140 is a lot for a pair of good shorts but seeing as you are going to be riding nearly everyday for 9 weeks in a sitted position, with lots of sweat, don't you think you would want something that would allow for the least amount of friction as possible. There are a lot of advantages to these shorts and I really encourage to invest in a couple of pairs for the tour. Believe me your butt and inner thighs will thank you in the end.
Actually here is a one good link that talks about cycling apparel - http://www.cycling-holiday.co.uk/cycling_clothing/
Like Stephanie said, it's totally worthwhile to wear something other than cotton. Call them what you want: poly-pro, tech T etc. They'll keep you from getting soaked on the hills and staying wet all day. A bonified cycling jersey isn't so important if you don't have the need to carry some junk in the back pockets. Myself, I don't have a bike rack and won't be buying one so some storage space is a consideration. It need not be though.
I'm going to add my two cents worth ... having gone through the same dilemma's when preparing for Sea to Sea '05 ... here is where I privately dream :)
Bike shorts are ESSENTIAL for your ride. Get the best you can afford, lots of padding, while still being able to walk around and feel comfortable. The more panels in the shorts, the better they should fit. And of course every make and model fits differently, so be sure to try them on. Get a minimum of two pairs, although three allows for a rainy day when your shorts need an extra night to dry, and be sure to wash your shorts after each day's ride :)
Absolutely wear non-cotton shirts, and socks. They will dry much quicker from rain or sweat and you should be prepared for each.
I didn't even buy long legged cycling tights, instead I opted for knee, leg and arm warmers. These are tubes of varying lengths and turned out to be an excellent purchase. They are versatile and compact, easy to slip on or off when the weather changes and can easily be rolled up and stored in a back pocket or bike bag.
Happy cycling. Expect an amazing adventure/journey!
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