Messages

1

Gear Talk / Re: Sandals for colder climate?

« on: September 20, 2023, 08:32:50 am »

I had such an experience once. We decided to go cycling with camping for a weekend. When we got up in the morning it was much colder than we expected, so I had to ride wearing sandals with wool socks. I can't say it was the most comfortable ride, but it was fine. And we were lucky not to have rain that day. Later, I looked through the dhgate reviews here and ordered an additional pair of clipless shoes, just in case.

2

General Discussion / Re: Neck, arms and hands fatigue?

« on: September 16, 2023, 01:03:33 pm »

I should say, this is a common problem. I know several people who faced it.
If your bike is well-fitted but you are still having pain, take a look at how you are holding the bars. Consciously relax your hands, soften your elbows and drop your shoulders, and try to avoid gripping the bars too tightly. Your wrists should be relaxed and not overly flexed or extended.
Fortunately, it can be solved and it is not that serious as cyclist syndrome, for example, that requires treatment. There are multiple routes of treatment including medical management comprised of medications (I already checked the info about them on the Canada Drugs site), invasive interventions such as surgery, injections, and neuro-modulation, as well as non-invasive or conservative therapy consisting of pelvic health physical therapy.
So, it is better to take care of your health and pay attention to all the needed details when cycling.

3

Food Talk / Re: Gluten Free

« on: September 12, 2023, 07:31:05 am »

My wife also needs to follow a gluten-free diet. We should get used to it and organize the proper buying process. currently, we order the needed products primarily online but it would be great to know other places. Thanks for sharing. Any updates are appreciated though.

4

International / Re: Health Insurance on the road abroad.

« on: September 12, 2023, 07:26:08 am »

It's a pity nobody replied here. I'm currently looking for good international health insurance. And it would be great if someone shared their experience. Thanks in advance.

5

International / Re: Cycling South America

« on: September 07, 2023, 06:17:07 pm »

Did you have a trip? How was it? I'm thinking about visiting Peru, so any advice and info would be appreciated.

6

Gear Talk / Re: Endurance bike advice

« on: August 19, 2023, 05:09:04 pm »

I read here https://www.bikertricks.com/ that the average lifespan of a road bike is 5-10 years. And a good bike will last for 30,000 to 50,000+ miles on the road, but a bad one could break down in under 5,000 miles. Is that true? And are there ways to increase the lifespan?

7

Youth Bicyle Travel / Re: best type of tagalong (trail-a-bike) for touring

« on: August 11, 2023, 05:02:06 pm »

Sorry for bumping, but I'm also in search of a tag-a-long. My daughter is too small for long rides. So, any updates and recommendations are appreciated.

8

General Discussion / Re: TAT and mental health

« on: July 29, 2023, 02:17:21 pm »

I had a relative with bipolar disorder, so I know what you are talking about.
People with bipolar disorder can experience distinct shifts in mood and energy levels. During manic episodes, individuals may exhibit elevated mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, and decreased need for sleep. The frequency and intensity of these episodes vary among individuals.

As for treatment, I'm not a doctor, but I know that it typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Medications like mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants can help manage symptoms (I read about all of them on the Canadain Pharmacy site). Therapy can provide coping strategies and support. Developing a consistent routine, practicing stress management, and engaging in healthy habits also contribute to overall well-being.
It's crucial for such people to work closely with mental health professionals to tailor a treatment plan that suits an individual's specific needs.

But yes, it is very hard for family, friends, and people nearby.

9

Food Talk / Re: Thailand food

« on: July 23, 2023, 05:14:05 pm »

I love Asian food and would like to learn how to make it at home, actually. Are there any good, simple recipes you could share with me? Any tips for a complete beginner?

10

Gear Talk / Re: Shorts, Liners, Tights

« on: July 19, 2023, 11:45:17 am »

What do you guys usually wear for colder morning rides?

It depends on the temperature, of course.
15 degrees: shorts and a long-sleeve jersey or long-sleeve thin undershirt.
10 Degrees: tights or leg warmers; heavy long-sleeve jersey with sleeveless or short-sleeve wicking undershirt; or lightweight long-sleeve jersey with long-sleeve undershirt.
What about the places you usually buy clothes at? I looked through these Roamans reviews yesterday and liked several items. So, I'm open to new recommendations.

11

General Discussion / Re: Hotel/motel vs camping

« on: July 18, 2023, 09:17:07 pm »

Some motels may be less expensive in the western states.  Van Horn TX had rooms for $25.00.  Small, clean, AC, heat.  Saw a good deal discount in El Paso.  A hotel in EL Paso was / is a hostel.   On my last tour I stayed in the Red Lion  (I think it was) in Tucson, The Hilton Double Tree in El Paso, the Alexandre in New Orleans, some overpriced rat hole in Perry FL and the Days Inn in Stuart FL.

It seems to be a great option. Thanks for sharing! I was going to choose camping at least for a couple of days, and book hotel rooms on the other days. I checked the Riu reviews here and liked the prices and conditions. But I'll keep Van Horn TX in mind for sure.

12

Gear Talk / Re: Bluetooth speaker

« on: June 20, 2023, 08:17:35 pm »

For those members who wear hearing aids, does your device support Bluetooth? Or do you use Bluetooth and hearings separately?
I'm in search of new hearing devices. Having looked through the listenclear complaints here, I didn't find any info about Bluetooth there, unfortunately, so I have doubts about my choice. What brand is better to choose?

13

Gear Talk / Re: Off the Bike Shoes

« on: June 20, 2023, 05:28:50 pm »

https://xeroshoes.com/shop/sandals/z-trail-men/

5.4 ounces for size 9. Also good for scuzzy shower use.

Just ordered those.
Hope they are good

If they are as comfortable as those I ordered from Sketchers, you will be happy with the purchase. I should say, it took me some time to find these sandals. I'm thankful to the guy who left feedback among these Skechers reviews.

14

International / Re: Cycling Tips for India

« on: May 09, 2023, 05:32:15 am »

Great info, thanks! I've been thinking about visiting India for several years, but to be honest, I didn't think about a cycling tour there. Can you tell me about the visa, please? Were there any difficulties?

15

Routes / Re: March Trip from Phoenix - Looking for best route

« on: May 07, 2023, 08:29:44 am »

I have an E-bike with an extra battery, my friend has touring bike.  We could do about 70 miles per day if reasonably flat, less if lots of uphill.  One way or loop.  Pavement or gravel would be fine.   I would prefer hotels, but would consider Warm Showers or possibly a park with electricity for a night or 2.   Safe road with a shoulder is important.  I just spoke to some people about Southern Tier Route- Phoenix to San Diego and they said highway through desert was treacherous, so still looking.

My requirements are usually the same. Did you end up staying only in hotels? If yes, did you look for and book them in advance?