Messages

16

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.

17

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?

18

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.

19

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.

20

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?

21

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.

22

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?

23

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?

24

Urban Cycling / Re: cyclist friendly hotel near JFK ?

« on: May 05, 2023, 10:25:38 am »

Great advice here! Thanks! I'm planning a tour that will include New York. Any other recommendations are appreciated. Maybe someone knows a good service/app to use?

25

General Discussion / Re: Insulin pump

« on: March 27, 2023, 02:15:51 pm »

Type 2 diabetic here. I had only one tour, but I'm glad to share my experience.
The first things I packed were a blood glucose monitor and spare batteries, lancets, test strips, and my diabetes pills (I decided to buy an extra pack of Victoza online beforehand). I used a small dry bag for this stuff.
I carried a 12 oz or 6 oz Cola for when I feel the blood sugar dropping.
I needed to snack on something every hour.
Also, think about your meals beforehand. Maybe you can choose the places you are going to eat at when planning the route.

26

Food Talk / Re: Best Foods for Training

« on: March 26, 2023, 05:31:40 pm »

I follow a carb cycling diet to fuel tough workouts. You can find out more about it here https://betterme.world/articles/12-week-carb-cycling-meal-plan/ if interested. It is best to consume larger amounts of carbohydrates around a workout because this will give your muscles enough energy without negatively affecting fat loss efforts. Also, it can help you prevent muscle fatigue.

27

General Discussion / Re: Weight training and cycling

« on: March 14, 2023, 04:49:19 pm »

I do sports regularly and it helps me keep fit. But I don't focus on training the way to feeling sore the next day. I can skip training if I go cycling/running. Sport is not only about discipline, it is important for me to enjoy it.

28

General Discussion / Re: Lowest acceptable highest gear inches for you to tour with?

« on: March 07, 2023, 03:49:05 am »

I'm not the most knowledgeable gear person around these forums, but I read that a good range for a touring bike is usually about 20 inches at the low end to 90 inches at the top end. I learned about gears mostly from this source https://www.bikertricks.com/bicycle-gears/ When I put my 26" in a 22T-32T gear, I have a hard time keeping balance unless I'm spinning like crazy. If my bike was loaded down, it'd be even worse. If my speed is anything lower than 2.5mph according to Sheldon Brown's gear calculator, it's useless for me.

29

Food Talk / Re: Papaya Salad Thailand

« on: March 05, 2023, 02:15:38 pm »

It sounds delicious. I like salads a lot, so I'll cook this one for sure in the hope I will also like it.

30

General Discussion / Re: I don't like dogs! (around my bike)

« on: March 05, 2023, 02:11:07 pm »

I point at the chasing dog and with authority say, "NO!!". Who doesn't tell their dog No? Every dog has stopped, looking confused, and has broken off the chase.

It makes sense. I'll give it a try. Thanks for the idea!