Messages

1

Routes / Re: Hawaii trip in the works

« on: May 17, 2009, 11:29:35 pm »

I live on Oahu. Beautiful Island, but cycling around it can be dodgy and camping is not so accommodating. There are several good bike shops but no one set up to help touring cyclists.

Going to the outer islands will be your best bet. The big island offers a lot of variety. I've done the Ironman there and it gets windy on the Kona coast, if looking at lava fields and riding in heat and wind appeal to you its unparalleled. The Hilo side offers a more lush landscape.

Maui has a beautiful ride out to Hana where you can find some great camping or perhaps a serious ride up to Haleakala National Park (10,000 feet) where you can camp with a permit and have an unforgettable descent down. 

2

General Discussion / What's on your iPod?

« on: May 17, 2009, 11:09:38 pm »

I'm compiling some music for a few playlists to listen to while on the quiet stretches of my upcoming TransAm ride. Anyone want to share what they like to hear while spinning the pedals during those long, hard days of climbing, etc?

Cycling in the more urban areas will not be conducive to listening and I know keeping a focus is essential, though I'm sure there will be times on the road some tunes can be justified. Let's hear what you enjoy...

Aloha.

3

General Discussion / Re: Do we have a winner for the 2008 Bike Giveaway?

« on: February 23, 2009, 12:13:35 pm »

I am pretty sure the winner was annouced in last month's magazine. I have trashed mine so I can't tell you though.  Sorry.

That's definitely not the case. The drawing took place just last week (February 15th). Thanks for the reply though TJ.

Anybody out there a winner?

4

Colorado / Re: Introduce Yourself

« on: February 22, 2009, 03:20:52 pm »

Aloha,
I left one paradise(Colorado) for another(Hawaii). I lived on the western slope in the late 70's and early 80's (Gunnison and Crested Butte). Never imagined one day I'd be riding back through the old stomping grounds on the western express route while touring America. I so look forward to it.
I'll be passing through Colorado in mid september and hoping to share some miles with anyone who may be interested in riding along for a while. Looking forward to again seeing some of the west's best.

Happy Trails,
Jack

5

Urban Cycling / Re: Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

« on: February 22, 2009, 01:56:23 pm »

I rode from Santa Barbara to San Diego this past December using the ACA maps. (Pacific Coast Route - Map #5 Santa Barbara, CA. to Imperial Beach, CA.)
Would not have imagined it would be so enjoyable. I suspected riding through an urban sprawl like LA would be sketchy but that was hardly the case.

I'm sure riding in Summer would be an entirely different experience with more visitors/tourists crowding the bike paths along the beach areas.  The maps were spot on and guides one safely through the more dense areas, a positive first experience navigating with the maps.

Yes I would do this ride again anytime given the same conditions.   

6

General Discussion / Do we have a winner for the 2008 Bike Giveaway?

« on: February 22, 2009, 01:35:43 pm »

I've noticed over the last several months a full page ad in Adventure Cyclist magazine for the bike giveaway.
Just curious who may have won the Surly Long Haul Trucker and the ACA summer tour grand prize.

Or do we have any of the monthly winners who've had a chance to use their cool new gear?

7

General Discussion / Re: I will need help planning my route

« on: February 22, 2009, 01:26:17 pm »

Aloha Ikelly,
Sorry I'm not able to offer help with your route planning but would like to commend you for making the commitment to such an honorable cause.

All the best!

8

General Discussion / Re: Help finding cycling or other outdoor industry job!! Thanks!

« on: February 19, 2009, 02:19:29 pm »

The cycling community is huge in southern California. Here's a link that provides lots of resources and contacts:

http://www.socalcycling.com/

Best of luck!

9

General Discussion / Re: Is it worth installing a kick stand?

« on: February 19, 2009, 12:26:03 am »

I kept the lid to a jar of tomato sauce handy to place under the stand in order to give it a bigger footprint. The lid is still part of my kit.

I use a golf ball drilled to fit.  It's sort of whimsical and takes forever to wear down.

Now that's imaginative! I'm sure it makes for a great conversation piece as well 

10

General Discussion / Re: Where do we ask questions about the forum/website?

« on: February 18, 2009, 11:33:37 pm »

I'd say to post here on the General Discussion threads. Seems like a good place to start and you'll probably get the most exposure to your specific questions...fire away.

Aloha.

11

Routes / Re: Autumn in Rockies and Sierras?

« on: February 18, 2009, 04:46:11 pm »

I spent the last 2 weeks of October in the Sierra mountains in California this past year and the weather was perfect, shorts and t-shirts during the day and light layers at night.

During the years that I lived in Western Colorado mid-September to mid-October were always the most pleasant times of the year. Typical fall weather, cool, clear, blue skies and fall colors. Enjoy the ride.

I'm sure the weather will not be a limiting factor, though in a mountain environment expect anything and be prepared for possible adverse conditions.

12

General Discussion / Re: timing and dates for TA

« on: February 17, 2009, 08:30:16 pm »

I'm traveling the same route, at the same time in the opposite direction and leaving San Diego on August 15. I'm worried about the heat in eastern California and Arizona.

I spent the last 2 weeks of October in the Sierra mountains in California this past year and the weather was perfect, shorts and t-shirts during the day and light layers at night.

During the years that I lived in Western Colorado mid-September to mid-October were always the most pleasant times of the year. Typical fall weather, cool, clear, blue skies and fall colors. Enjoy the ride and hope to see you in passing.

I'm sure the weather will not be a limiting factor, though in a mountain environment expect anything and be prepared for possible adverse conditions.

13

General Discussion / Is it worth installing a kick stand?

« on: February 16, 2009, 09:41:41 pm »

I recently purchased a Surly Long Haul Trucker and I'm outfitting it for a Trans America ride this summer. Is it worth getting a kick stand, just wondering if this simple option is justifiable to consider for a long tour?

14

General Discussion / Re: What book would you recommend to read?

« on: February 09, 2009, 02:35:04 am »

Not sure if this question has been asked, but if there was a cycling book that you would recommend to read, what would it be?

This message was edited by CharlieBrown on 11-25-08 @ 2:51 PM

Two titles by the same author:
“Moods of Future Joys: Around the World By Bike - Part 1”
and  “Thunder and Sunshine” by Alastair Humpheys

Both excellent reads and an impressive journey.

Another title to enjoy: “Stealing From a Deep Place” by Brian Hall
I know it's out of print but you can still find it. Enjoy.

15

Gear Talk / Recommendation for bike shops in San Diego

« on: September 19, 2008, 03:10:54 pm »

I'm visiting San Diego, California for the next 4 months and looking to
purchase a touring bike and gear while here. Does anyone know of any
shops that cater towards touring bikes/cyclists?

I'm planning on doing some longer distance touring as well, if anyone
had thoughts on a quality touring bike, please let me know your
thoughts. Thanks in advance.

Aloha,
Jack