Cyclists who are finding the local bike trail a little boring or overpopulated with other cyclists, runners and roller-bladers may want to take a freedom break. Taking a trip on a country road can add excitement along with the fascination of exploring unseen terrain.
The Safety Factor in Bike Riding
For the most part, country roads are less traveled by motor vehicles, which means they are safer. However, less traveled doesn’t mean they are entirely safe. Country roads also have twists and turns combined with hills where a lack of long-range visibility puts a cyclist at risk for oncoming vehicles. When cresting a hill, look behind to assure no one is coming before descending the other side.
There may be a few watch dogs out in rural areas that will want to protect their turf. The best thing to do when a large canine beast makes a challenge is to not show any fear, respect the dog, talk to it in a soothing tone, and give it as much clearance as possible. It is usually the very small, yapping dogs that will give pursuit.
Plotting the Course of Action
Country road routes are great for planning loop trips. One method of plotting a course is to use Google Maps or MapQuest. Type in a starting point and turn-around point and select the bicycle icon and the directional software will plot a course over township and county roads. By taking the mouse and dragging the course line to another road, a cyclist can customize the route and also note the mileage. For the return trip, mouse-drag that line over an alternate route. Or a cyclist may simply take along a folded county map or MapQuest printout. Another good option is to use a GPS, but remember that the unit will be on battery power.
What to Take
Things to take along are about the same as any long-distance cycling trip. Food, water, sunglasses, helmet, a brightly colored cycling jersey and a small amount of cash should get the journey started. Taking along a camera may help bring back some memories of the country bike tour. And a good way to add more pleasure to the cycling tour is to plan a stop at an ice cream stand or local restaurant.
Depending upon the location, some country roads will have a lot of hills, which may differ from the shallower grades of most bike paths.
Autumn is a great time of year to saddle up and go exploring. Sightseeing by bicycle is a very good way to explore, get exercise and test navigational skills.
Nelson Shogren - Nelson Shogren spends a large amount of time outdoors, paddling kayaks and canoes, hiking, backpacking, camping, road and mountain biking, ...
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