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Hi,
It's been a while, but we had a thing called winter around here (which doesn't stop a lot people from cycling). The weather conditions and a really bad cold kept me from cycling (you wuss). But I am more motivated than ever to get on my bike again (maybe the extra weight I put on also has something to do with it).
I just became a member of worldcommute.com, an initiative of Cateye (cycle computers, lights, and so on).
On the site you can keep track of the miles you do on your bike, the money and fuel you saved, your carbon offset, and so on.
But you can also keep track of how the world, and each country is doing on that matter (those that are member that is).
Anyway, a fun tool to stay motivated, keep on cycling and contribute to a cleaner world.
Check it out, you may enjoy it!
Next time I'll show how I converted my Schwinn Xtracycle hauler some more (think Schwalbe... think Big Apple).
CYA
Wergraph
I got my Schwinn '91 MTB converted about a week ago after a 3 week wait for the Xtracycle parts. I could not pick them up in a local shop because nobody sells these in Belgium. But from now on you can, parts and pricing can be obtained here: www.hermesrijwielen.be They did a great job on my bike and even took pictures of the conversion (these will be posted soon).
It is different to ride, at first you don't really notice any difference but it turns differently even without a load. When you do carry a load, eg. groceries, the ride is really steady because the weight is situated low to the ground. Carrying two kids in the back is also not a problem (when they stay still and don't lean in the wrong direction). I took a handlebar from an old kid's bike and attached it under my saddle, so kids riding in the back have something to hold on to.
I just love the fact I don't need a car anymore to do my shopping. This solution is great!-- WERGRAPH
I have been a fanatic gearhead for years and must admit that sometimes it itches. Today I gave in and I visited the annual VW Classics Meeting but I must admit I watched it through different eyes than before. In the past when I visited such events I saw at least a dozen cars that interested me and I even considered buying. Well, not this year, I admit enjoying the visit because the atmosphere was great and I had a couple of beers but I wasn't lusting after any of the vehicles present. Then again nobody paid attention to my bike (it's a Schwinn not a VW), even though it was the only not VW-related vehicle on the grounds except for a Land Rover 88.
The VW Classics Meeting is a gathering for all pre-1984 air and watercooled classic cars that are Volkswagen related. This means lots a beetles, lots of vans, a mix of all kinds of Volkswagen models and even the occasional Audi or Porsche. There is also a Vintage VW Show with some beautiful cars entering, looking at these cars you can really tell these people care about their hobby and I can appreciate that (if you want to find out more, visit the VW Classics Club site).
The ride to get there was really enjoyable, the sun was shining (28° Celsisus) and there are some great bike trails on the way to Lier. I did not have to look for a space to park and I did not have to make a stop at a gas station.
-- WERGRAPH
The month of august almost passed and the weather hasn't been all that good, mostly cloudy with regular showers. But even though the weather wasn't all that good I have been riding my bike every day, which resulted in 1 trip to the gas station buying 50 EURO of gas compared to 50 EURO per week.
150 EURO of savings in one month, which stands for 1 full shopping cart at the grocery store, 1 dinner with my wife in a fine restaurant or 201,68 cans of Jupiler beer (33 cl) and I could go on.
This is the first time in YEARS I had to spent so little on gas and the only reason I had to get some gas is that I took my family out on a trip to Paridisio, a nice animal park (www.paradisio.be). The reason I took the car for this trip is I took my wife and 3 kids and they just don't fit on my bike.
In the park you find a beautiful chinese garden, a grotto where bats fly loose, monkey island where monkeys come and eat of your hands, and lots more. But there is also ship, the Mersus Emergo, where you can visit 'SOS Biodiversity', an exhibit on the impact of what mankind is doing to the planet. The exhibit includes an overview of endangered species, the gruesome details on how some animals are butchered for their fur, skin, and what not. Part of the exhibit tells you can do for the environment as an individual but als as a business. In a text on what businesses can do I noticed the following: 'use more bicycle couriers' and 'install showers at work for employees that use their bicycle to come to work'. I thought it was great this is encouraged here and must say it surprised me.
If you ever have the opportunity to visit this park especially with your kids, don't hesitate, it is really worth your while.
Ok, now stay away from gas stations you hear, there are more fun things to do with your money!
-- WERGRAPH
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