Archive for the 'Checklists' Category

First Real Bike Tour

A couple of weeks ago, Michael Sylvester invited us to join him and his girlfriend Marci on a little bike tour. So this weekend Austin and I took our first bike camping trip. As we are recovering from the heat (can you believe 106 degrees?!), the exertion, and the mind-blowingly good time, we are reflecting on the lessons learned and planning for the next trip.

1. Never underestimate the wisdom of the Happy Pack. This is and ingenious move on the part of Marci. A one-gallon zip-lock baggie dull of non-negotiable non-essentials. If one partner wants to bring post-it notes and it fits in the bag, it comes. Luxuries, when packing light, can actually be quite simple.

2. Tandems just freakin’ fly. Team Ramsland was no match for Team M&M. On their tandem, they were able to share the load of the trailer, be more aerodynamic, and Marci was able to administer in-flight shoulder rubs to Michael.

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Checklist: Winter Riding

It has been wicked cold in Portland these last couple of weeks. So considering the fact that Natalie spent a couple of years in Vancouver, Canada and I come from the great state of Minnesota; we thought we were perfectly suited to come up with The Winter Riding Checklist:

1) Bike
2) Helmet
3) Lights

Those kind of go without saying.

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