Everyone should experience the joy that comes from riding a bicycle. Until now I have never heard of this segment of the population given that chance because of their particular disability. This article from the New York Times is a heartwarming story of an organization that gives people a chance to feel like we do everyday.
Author Archives: Christopher
What are you wearing in winter?
Winter cycling is something I look forward to with great excitement and trepidation. I have so many questions that I want to ask without knowing exactly what they are. All I can do is try to prepare with what I know and hope that I come out on top and not on the black top. Here are some things that I am considering:
1. SKS Commuter Bicycle Fender Set: I should have gotten these a while ago as it would have kept my bike a lot cleaner, but in the coming winter months I am really going to need them as rain is nothing compared to snow when it comes to dirtying your bike.
2. Outdoor Research Ninjaclava Balaclava: I need a balaclava for a few reasons. The foremost of which is to keep my face warm on those cold winter days. The nerd in me says, “Hey, as long as you are getting a mask for your face why not look like a ninja?” So here’s my question, should I wear goggles with this or is it not meant for goggles?
3. Full Face Mask-Orange Flame W11S23D: I was torn between getting a balaclava and a face mask for a while when it finally dawned on me, “Why not get both?” So here it is. The problem with the face masks and the half masks is that a lot of them are all really scary. I think my goal here is not to look like a maniac, but to keep my face warm and rain free. Does anyone have any suggestions on masks?
4. Half face Mask – Spider Web W11S25D: I don’t know if I’d like the full or half mask better so I came to the same conclusion as before, get both! I was always a fan of Spider-Man so this just made sense.
There are two items I haven’t decided on mostly because I haven’t researched them yet. These are goggles and full fingered gloves. If anyone has any suggestions I would be glad to hear them in the comments.
Written by Chris Belsole
Filed under Article, Popular, Winter Cycling
Fuller Road/Washington Avenue Intersection Reconstruction Project
The Fuller Road/Washington Avenue Intersection Reconstruction Project is, officially, an undertaking to improve pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, reconstruct the existing asphalt and concrete pavement, improve safety for all modes of travel, and to minimize the construction impact on the traveling public. What the intersection is now is a giant crossroads where, if you are a pedestrian or a cyclist, it can be a little daunting to traverse. There are three main options that the project committee has laid out for what to do with the intersection. Continue reading
Filed under Article, Editorial, Fuller Rd., Popular
What is the best alternate transportation for you?
Since I have lived a car-free lifestyle for the past six months, not of my own choice rather out of necessity, I have become very familiar with the alternate transportation system of getting from here to there that Albany has to offer. If you want to live a greener, and I hate this phrase, more carbon neutral life here are some of your options:
Erie Canal Ride
Like many moments in this world you have to grab opportunities as they come to you, or you might miss them. Yesterday I had the opportunity to ride the Erie Canal with a group of riders led by ABC member John Vendetti. The ride was a nice mix of education, perspiration, and fascination.
It all started at the boat launch where John gave us the rundown of the ride with an overview of what the Erie Canal was back when they first built it. Soon we were off and rolling on what was going to be an adventure in cycling, at least for me.
There is something you have to understand about my bike. It is “technically” a hybrid bike, but I found out yesterday that it loves roads better than grass. In fact, yesterday was the first day that I exercised the off-road portion of the bike. I am glad to say that it did perform, but now back to the ride.
It is my understanding, and correct me if I am wrong, that there are sixteen locks (Edit: I just checked and it’s 18 locks –Ken) total. Some of them are closed off to the public and others have been buried over time, but the ones that are left are a sight to see. Especially if you are interested in early American history.
After passing a few locks we came to what was called the Weighlock Building in which boats would come in and get weighed based on the amount of water they displaced. As you can see the stone rock made a nice podium.
After the Watervliet Armory and the rest of the locks we came to my favorite part of the ride, the Cohoes Falls. To think that we have something like that in our own backyard is astounding. While everyone went down to get a closer look I just parked myself on a nearby bench and looked in with wonder at the falls.
Next was a beautiful ride to the Champlain Canal where the trees were changing color and reflecting in the river. At the canal we got to see how it worked, and after a great lunch we headed home through Troy.
Over all the ride was great. There was just enough biking to have a good time with the perfect amount of history and scenery along the way. If John ever does this again I would highly recommend it to anyone.
You know, sometimes life comes at us hard and we feel stressed, but sometimes you just need to take a breath, step back, and be at peace.
Albany Bicycle Coalition 