Improving Bicycle Access to Nature Lands

The bicycle as we know it; has been a fixture throughout the world for over 150 years. Some early designs can be dated easily to the early 1820's. As a mode of transportation people from around the globe have adapted the bicycle to their needs and still rely on the simplicity over motorized vehicles to this day. In regards to green transportation, only walking can be considered in comparison to the bike. Add to the green component high fuel prices, and many commuters are now using bicycles for part, or all of their daily trips to and from work.

With such a rich history it is difficult to understand why the National Parks System is less than accepting to bicycles on park lands. Until recently, bicycles were only allowed on roads and paths that were open to all vehicles. During the summer of 2012 a rule change provided park superintendents …

Bicycle Maintenance: Upkeep Provides Smoother Bike Rides Overnight

Have you ever been riding your bike out on a nice, sunny day, but seemed like you were peddling maybe a little bit more than usual? What about a tire that wobbled? I know it's not everyday you get asked this but, when was the last time you gave your bike a checkup? Silly as it may sound, your personal bikes need tender loving care too. Let's talk about some of the things you should keep in mind before you take your next bike ride.

Before you begin maintenance on your bike it's always best to make sure your have the proper tools which could include tire pumps, chain tools, chain lubricant, tire repair kits, rags, screw drivers and allen wrenches to start with. Another handy piece of paper that could come in handy is the owners manual, if you still have it. For some reason many consumers tend to …

Bicycling: Inexpensive Bicycle Accessories

A wide variety of accessories are available for bicycles, some of them quite affordable. Here are some inexpensive accessories to consider adding to your bicycle…

BOTTLE HOLDER: A bicycle bottle holder, or "cage", can be purchased for under $10 with some exceptions (like ultra-light models or units which come with a bottle). Some of these can hold regular twenty-ounce soda bottles; re-using a bottle of this type for water, if desired, is cheaper than buying a new bike water bottle. Usually they are held on by two screws, make sure it is possible to install one of these on your bicycle before purchasing it.

BICYCLE LIGHT: Some flashlights which can be mounted on your bicycle cost under $10, sometimes as inexpensive as $7. They may use LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or traditional light bulbs. LEDs use less electricity and usually last longer. Some bicycle lights have a feature which makes …