Bikes, at their soul, are some of the most simple creations on the planet.
Get me two wheels, a chain, frame, seat and handlebars and I will get you a perfectly comfortable and functional bike. Further, a bike is one of the truest forms of physical expression; the harder you pedal, the faster you go. Short of running, there is little in the world that allows you to so directly affect your own physical power output.
Biking allows you to be in direct control of your power and gives freedom and speed to boot. Riding a bike can be one of the easiest things you do today. It can also be one of the hardest. It all depends on how much energy you are willing to put into your ride.
Another great aspect of bikes is that you are free to go as simple or high-tech as you wish. If you desire a simple ride that is easy to take care then a single speed is right up your alley (and perfect for an Alley-Cat race as well - more on that later). Though, if the two wheels and a chain aren’t enough parts for you then you can find bikes with electronic shifting, ride assist batteries and the lightest carbon frames. With all the options to choose from it is easy to find a bike that fits your personality.
Once you have your bike, where you are going to ride? Well, the Southeast, by and large, is slowly but surely becoming more a bike-friendly region. Cities like Greenville, SC have been adding bike paths at a furious pace and encouraging folks to get out and go for a spin.
Find out what's happening in Decatur-Avondale Estateswith free, real-time updates from Patch.
On a more local level Atlanta and surrounding cities have been slowly developing more bike-accessible routes. Decatur (amongst other areas) has the wonderful PATH system that runs from they city to Stone Mountain for a largely car-free ride.
From here on out this blog is going to take a look at cycling in general (bikes, equipment, gear etc), rides around town and what local and state governments/organizations are doing to try and make the streets a little safer for all of us.
As an avid cyclist and former bike mechanic, I welcome any and all questions or comments about what you would like to see in the future. Until then, happy riding!
Thomas Moore is a member of the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition.
