2024 - Our Rides in Words, Photos, Maps and Videos
- Thread starter Saratoga Dave
- Start date
BlackHand
Well-Known Member
- Region
- USA
- City
- Western WA
No epic rides here, but I did pack in quite a few extra miles on this week's commutes before we say goodbye to summer and life gets busy again next week.
Monday: 35 miles, 2700' ele
Rode over to Magnuson Park and the long way home by Lake Washington. This installation uses the dive planes from decommissioned nuclear attack subs to create a 'pod' of killer whales.
Tuesday: 40 miles, 3200' ele
Across the Ballard Bridge. The larger ship down there is the Wizard, it's been on the TV show 'Deadliest Catch' for the last 19 years. Looking a little tired, but considering she started life as a navy oil tender at the end of WWII and has been crab fishing in the Bering Sea for the last 50? years I'd say she's a survivor.
Across Magnolia, then back across Queen Anne, which means several 20% hills. Some of the streets are split due to the steep hills -this is me taking a ramp to get from the lower half of 9th street up to the upper half of 9th street.
I'm probably not the first person to take a picture of the Needle in this eye.
And back across the Aurora Bridge to head home.
Wednesday: 30 miles, 2200' ele.
No pictures, just a few extra miles on the way home
Thursday: 41 miles, 2975' ele
Headed down to the downtown waterfront where the new Aquarium building was opening. It's the copper building nestled on the left. The Aquarium exhibit was open but most of the stairs and promenades are still being finished, so it still feels like a (festive) construction site.
The bike and pedestrian path along Elliot seems pretty well done. We'll see once it is fully open, I suspect the pedestrian lane will be the defacto bike passing lane which sounds like trouble.
Came back through the Arboretum then around Union Bay by UW.
Friday: 38 miles, 2700' ele
These look pretty new.
Light rail finally opened up on my end of the Metro area. It was first voted on in 1996, the year before I moved to Seattle! Light rail was severely delayed by bureaucracy but also because in 1997 Seattle voters approved an initiative to expand the monorail from the 1962 World's Fair. Turns out the taxi driver who came up with the initiative didn't have a well thought out plan, but a lot of people think monorails are cool so we spent $125 million and 8 years to realize it wouldn't be practical.
Bike lockers at the light rail station, a very reasonable $.05/hour. I just hope I get a spot on the ground level if I ever need to use them!
Monday: 35 miles, 2700' ele
Rode over to Magnuson Park and the long way home by Lake Washington. This installation uses the dive planes from decommissioned nuclear attack subs to create a 'pod' of killer whales.
Tuesday: 40 miles, 3200' ele
Across the Ballard Bridge. The larger ship down there is the Wizard, it's been on the TV show 'Deadliest Catch' for the last 19 years. Looking a little tired, but considering she started life as a navy oil tender at the end of WWII and has been crab fishing in the Bering Sea for the last 50? years I'd say she's a survivor.
Across Magnolia, then back across Queen Anne, which means several 20% hills. Some of the streets are split due to the steep hills -this is me taking a ramp to get from the lower half of 9th street up to the upper half of 9th street.
I'm probably not the first person to take a picture of the Needle in this eye.
And back across the Aurora Bridge to head home.
Wednesday: 30 miles, 2200' ele.
No pictures, just a few extra miles on the way home
Thursday: 41 miles, 2975' ele
Headed down to the downtown waterfront where the new Aquarium building was opening. It's the copper building nestled on the left. The Aquarium exhibit was open but most of the stairs and promenades are still being finished, so it still feels like a (festive) construction site.
The bike and pedestrian path along Elliot seems pretty well done. We'll see once it is fully open, I suspect the pedestrian lane will be the defacto bike passing lane which sounds like trouble.
Came back through the Arboretum then around Union Bay by UW.
Friday: 38 miles, 2700' ele
These look pretty new.
Light rail finally opened up on my end of the Metro area. It was first voted on in 1996, the year before I moved to Seattle! Light rail was severely delayed by bureaucracy but also because in 1997 Seattle voters approved an initiative to expand the monorail from the 1962 World's Fair. Turns out the taxi driver who came up with the initiative didn't have a well thought out plan, but a lot of people think monorails are cool so we spent $125 million and 8 years to realize it wouldn't be practical.
Bike lockers at the light rail station, a very reasonable $.05/hour. I just hope I get a spot on the ground level if I ever need to use them!
Attachments
Chargeride
Well-Known Member
Its me again, bit grainy, I took them off the editor screen.
I roughly did this rather epic ride from Modbury to Newton Ferrers with most of it being bridleway or back lane vehicle unsuitable,
which is the understatement of the century, I didn't do the river crossing on the way back as I missed the tide and wasnt going
to ride the Haibike through 2ft of incoming tide.
These tracks are full of abandoned farming infrastructure, at least I think its abandoned, you seem to be travelling on the original
paths that connected these tiny hamlets
I had to navigate towards a larger road at this point and this is the entrance to Audley Flete house which is now a retirement home for the very well off
they soon wont be.
This trail starts next to that entrance and its simply stunning as it climbs over the rolling hills and passes under bridges.
The scenery is exquisite and I presume is the left over of created landscape from the stately home.
Huge rock path descent into Holbeton which is beyond cute
The village post office and shop, I sat there for ten minutes and all I could hear was Devon accents inside, local gossip, screaming laughing
and they all emerged at once, slightly tubby, flowery dresses..'allright my lovely!
The next track was blocked by a local who uses it as his parking space. I managed to squeeze past while only collecting one armful of
bramble.
I was the other side of the edge and these cows were making an unworldly collective noise that literally scared me , it sounded like the beast from Forbidden Planet
was in the field. they were all snorting and charging the gate, I'm glad there was also an electric fence.
This was typical of the tracks, but the images don't portray how beautiful they are, everyone is like riding along a fantasy rabbit hole, leaving you no context for where you are heading except for occasional flashes of the outside world.
One of them was two miles of this, I just slowed to a crawl and let the tyres deal with it.
Nearing the coast and you start seeing some weird fantasy house down obscure tiny lanes, I could imagine how it would feel at night without the parked cars,
you would think you had entered a strange cult district.
Reached the coast, pretty well perfect conditions, slight warm breeze, miles of visibility.
I rode down the farmers track to the base of the cliffs, met this family on the way back up, as usual theres always one huffing adult and one smiler.
It switches between male and female, but its mostly the wife who smiles, the man is reverting to protector mode because some drug dealing
electric motorbike riding scallywag seems to be trying to mug people in the countryside.
I have considered comical beach shorts to put them at ease, but my legs would be ripped to bits.
This final descent track into Newton Ferrers was superb, and it was so unused that I picked up a good bit of speed, came around the end to find this couple who
obviously thought a monster truck was on its way down.
Missed the crossing, too deep even for me.
The village is preparing for a festival, bit patriotic this, I'm sure they'll get a visit from Starmers thought police
That's more like it...though I'm not sure....
Climbed the coastal path because two posh ladies called Cressida and Helena said it was fine.
I mostly rode the larger country roads back to Modbury because my vans ticket was running out, took three hours, battery lasted well, still three bars left, main road was terrifying.
Never ever plan a bike ride in South Devon, the drivers want you dead.
Highlights include the endless friendly locals, tourists not so much
One trail i found two survivalists, Dad and son in balaclavas, huge back packs,
those waistcoat style jackets full of pockets, camo pants tucked into army boots, I stopped for a chat, they loved my bike.
'Thats the proper gear for these trails'
I spoilt the whole thing by taking a swig of my drink and having a coughing fit in front of them.
They walked off, probably writing me off as not suitable for the rebellion.
Every track was rideable, the loop down to elford house was simply superb, extremely challenging descent and climb and it hilariously went straight through the
garden of a rental property where the holiday makers were sat sunbathing.
'Which way?'
They all pointed together to the exit.
I got my first puncture, but it sealed itself after a few minutes, fine for the rest of the ride, but they tyre was flat the next day.
Going to plug it today.
I roughly did this rather epic ride from Modbury to Newton Ferrers with most of it being bridleway or back lane vehicle unsuitable,
which is the understatement of the century, I didn't do the river crossing on the way back as I missed the tide and wasnt going
to ride the Haibike through 2ft of incoming tide.
These tracks are full of abandoned farming infrastructure, at least I think its abandoned, you seem to be travelling on the original
paths that connected these tiny hamlets
I had to navigate towards a larger road at this point and this is the entrance to Audley Flete house which is now a retirement home for the very well off
they soon wont be.
This trail starts next to that entrance and its simply stunning as it climbs over the rolling hills and passes under bridges.
The scenery is exquisite and I presume is the left over of created landscape from the stately home.
Huge rock path descent into Holbeton which is beyond cute
The village post office and shop, I sat there for ten minutes and all I could hear was Devon accents inside, local gossip, screaming laughing
and they all emerged at once, slightly tubby, flowery dresses..'allright my lovely!
The next track was blocked by a local who uses it as his parking space. I managed to squeeze past while only collecting one armful of
bramble.
I was the other side of the edge and these cows were making an unworldly collective noise that literally scared me , it sounded like the beast from Forbidden Planet
was in the field. they were all snorting and charging the gate, I'm glad there was also an electric fence.
This was typical of the tracks, but the images don't portray how beautiful they are, everyone is like riding along a fantasy rabbit hole, leaving you no context for where you are heading except for occasional flashes of the outside world.
One of them was two miles of this, I just slowed to a crawl and let the tyres deal with it.
Nearing the coast and you start seeing some weird fantasy house down obscure tiny lanes, I could imagine how it would feel at night without the parked cars,
you would think you had entered a strange cult district.
Reached the coast, pretty well perfect conditions, slight warm breeze, miles of visibility.
I rode down the farmers track to the base of the cliffs, met this family on the way back up, as usual theres always one huffing adult and one smiler.
It switches between male and female, but its mostly the wife who smiles, the man is reverting to protector mode because some drug dealing
electric motorbike riding scallywag seems to be trying to mug people in the countryside.
I have considered comical beach shorts to put them at ease, but my legs would be ripped to bits.
This final descent track into Newton Ferrers was superb, and it was so unused that I picked up a good bit of speed, came around the end to find this couple who
obviously thought a monster truck was on its way down.
Missed the crossing, too deep even for me.
The village is preparing for a festival, bit patriotic this, I'm sure they'll get a visit from Starmers thought police
That's more like it...though I'm not sure....
Climbed the coastal path because two posh ladies called Cressida and Helena said it was fine.
I mostly rode the larger country roads back to Modbury because my vans ticket was running out, took three hours, battery lasted well, still three bars left, main road was terrifying.
Never ever plan a bike ride in South Devon, the drivers want you dead.
Highlights include the endless friendly locals, tourists not so much
One trail i found two survivalists, Dad and son in balaclavas, huge back packs,
those waistcoat style jackets full of pockets, camo pants tucked into army boots, I stopped for a chat, they loved my bike.
'Thats the proper gear for these trails'
I spoilt the whole thing by taking a swig of my drink and having a coughing fit in front of them.
They walked off, probably writing me off as not suitable for the rebellion.
Every track was rideable, the loop down to elford house was simply superb, extremely challenging descent and climb and it hilariously went straight through the
garden of a rental property where the holiday makers were sat sunbathing.
'Which way?'
They all pointed together to the exit.
I got my first puncture, but it sealed itself after a few minutes, fine for the rest of the ride, but they tyre was flat the next day.
Going to plug it today.
Electrified Legs
Member
- Region
- United Kingdom
Just a quick pootle Dow the farm track this evening, some late summer sun.
Prairie Dog
Well-Known Member
- Region
- Canada
- City
- Red Deer
We started September off on the right foot with an 80 km loop beginning at the Delburne Road (Hwy #595). My final ride tally for the month of August was 1067 km and the only blemish on the calendar was one day missed due to rain.
With the threat of a rail workers strike the furthest thing on their minds now, famers rush to get their crops off while the weather gods play nice.
Hay, let the good times roll!
Hwy 595 to Delburne is a 45km stretch of rural tarmac which runs east/west and is often used by the village residents as well as many of the small farming communities along the way such as Springvale. Red Deer would be the primary destination for most seeing that it is home to the major grocery stores as well as most other modern conveniences that a smaller hamlet might be without. We would only be riding 15km of this road before turning south onto #816 where the pace of traffic would be significantly less.
Harvest time is one of the busiest times of the year for farmers as they work to maximize yields and safely take off their crops. Everywhere we rode the fields appeared to be a hive of activity.
Sai pushes her way up 816 along one of the many hilly sections of the ride. This outing didn’t present huge climbs since much of the gradient ranged between 4-6% though I must admit that it was an up and down affair most of the way.
This old parish with its humble looking cemetery is one of the oldest pioneer churches in the district of Red Deer County.
Looking back down the same highway with harvesting having been completed on one side of the road and combining not yet started on the east side.
Further up the road, the missus spotted this artificial nest post for raptors. One species of hawk has experienced dramatic declines so the introduction of more of these nesting poles can only help to increase the number of these native prairie birds.
The area is also home to wetlands and deciduous forests and with little traffic along this rural road it makes a great habitat for moose, coyotes, mule deer, grouse and waterfowl. The stonhouse/Pope natural area is managed by the Alberta Conservation Assoc, Alberta Fish and Game, and Ducks Unlimited Canada.
A few hundred meters or so away is the Lockerby site. A family friend, Ninian Lockerby, donated the 300 acre parcel of land which is managed by several partners.
We didn’t have time to wander into the site but having done so two years ago I can honestly say that it was definitely worth the ride out then. It’s known for pristine aspen parkland, native wildflowers, old hayfields, wetlands and abundant wildlife.
With the sun at its peak, we decided to head home and complete the last leg of the loop before it got too hot. At the corner of Hwy 42 and 816 sits the Ghostpine Market. It’s only minutes from the Pinelake Resort which makes it a popular stop for campers needing to stock up on last minute supplies and gas. We stopped for a cool treat before pushing off west along 42 and back towards homebase.
A few parting images of the final leg.
With the threat of a rail workers strike the furthest thing on their minds now, famers rush to get their crops off while the weather gods play nice.
Hay, let the good times roll!
Hwy 595 to Delburne is a 45km stretch of rural tarmac which runs east/west and is often used by the village residents as well as many of the small farming communities along the way such as Springvale. Red Deer would be the primary destination for most seeing that it is home to the major grocery stores as well as most other modern conveniences that a smaller hamlet might be without. We would only be riding 15km of this road before turning south onto #816 where the pace of traffic would be significantly less.
Harvest time is one of the busiest times of the year for farmers as they work to maximize yields and safely take off their crops. Everywhere we rode the fields appeared to be a hive of activity.
Sai pushes her way up 816 along one of the many hilly sections of the ride. This outing didn’t present huge climbs since much of the gradient ranged between 4-6% though I must admit that it was an up and down affair most of the way.
This old parish with its humble looking cemetery is one of the oldest pioneer churches in the district of Red Deer County.
Looking back down the same highway with harvesting having been completed on one side of the road and combining not yet started on the east side.
Further up the road, the missus spotted this artificial nest post for raptors. One species of hawk has experienced dramatic declines so the introduction of more of these nesting poles can only help to increase the number of these native prairie birds.
The area is also home to wetlands and deciduous forests and with little traffic along this rural road it makes a great habitat for moose, coyotes, mule deer, grouse and waterfowl. The stonhouse/Pope natural area is managed by the Alberta Conservation Assoc, Alberta Fish and Game, and Ducks Unlimited Canada.
A few hundred meters or so away is the Lockerby site. A family friend, Ninian Lockerby, donated the 300 acre parcel of land which is managed by several partners.
We didn’t have time to wander into the site but having done so two years ago I can honestly say that it was definitely worth the ride out then. It’s known for pristine aspen parkland, native wildflowers, old hayfields, wetlands and abundant wildlife.
With the sun at its peak, we decided to head home and complete the last leg of the loop before it got too hot. At the corner of Hwy 42 and 816 sits the Ghostpine Market. It’s only minutes from the Pinelake Resort which makes it a popular stop for campers needing to stock up on last minute supplies and gas. We stopped for a cool treat before pushing off west along 42 and back towards homebase.
A few parting images of the final leg.
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Stefan Mikes
Gravel e-biker
- Region
- Europe
- City
- Mazovia, PL
From the Duchy of Mazovia to the Crown of Poland (Inowłódz)
I eventually decided to set off for a long ride for Sunday. However, it had to be done on my own terms (a stop whenever I needed it), and it had to be 100% asphalt
As I could potentially ride for 1 Rab, I started very early on the day. Got my Vado 6.0 to Skierniewice-Rawka by train and started riding at 7:50 am (I started my ride to the train stop as early as 6:28!) This time, almost the entire ride was confined to the Land of Łódź (a voivodeship or province).
Necessary to mention it was pretty cold until noon, making the ride perfect for the time!
No time to take photos! My first stop was only in the village of Głuchów. It was not my first time there, still, I was impressed. The Borough of Głuchów looks like a model EU village! I could see different plates explaining how wisely the Borough used to apply for the EU funds, and how nicely they could use them. I really enjoyed resting there!
A former train station now converted to a home. The name of the building is "The PKP House" for the former Polish State Railways
I had no time for photography. Just let me tell you I was impressed with the countryside of Land of Łódź. Good asphalt roads, affluent farming area, rolling hills, and natural beauty. The province has tremendously developed for recent years! Note: Central Poland exactly means Land of Łódź. Warsaw is not located in Central Poland! (It is in Mazovia, NE).
It is poor quality gravel or dirt for most fire-roads in Poland's forests. The Land of Łódź can afford either premium gravel roads or even asphalt for its woods! Which makes Spała Landscape Park very popular among recreational cyclists, roller-skaters or runners.
Spała is a popular resort village near Tomaszów Mazowiecki. I had a big portion of ice-cream there. It started to be hot!
Necessary to mention there was a perfect fine gravel bike path from Spała to Inowłódz.
A mine of chalcedony in the town of Inowłódz. The company is probably the largest employer there, and it looked rich!
The Inowłódz Castle (King Casimir The Great Castle). Completed 1366, destroyed 1657, under reconstruction since 2007.
A historical note
King Casimir III the Great (reign: 1333-1370) who "inherited wooden Poland and left her fortified in stone and brick" is perceived as one of the greatest rulers of Poland. He was the monarch who eventually consolidated the state of Poland after several hundred of years collapse, reformed the law, funded the first University, and above all, he actually built Poland: fortified 30 towns and invested in 50 new border castles.
Yes, you read it correctly: "border castles". Why on earth should the border of the Crown of Poland be located on River Pilica, in Inowłódz? It was because there was mighty Duchy of Mazovia northwards of the river. Until 1526, the Duchy of Mazovia was an independent state (fortunately enough, friendly to Poland). Nowadays, Mazovia is the biggest and richest province of Poland, hosting her capital city. Go figure
Inowłódz was demoted to a village during the Partitions of Poland (1780) and restored to the town status on January 1st, 2024
A nice mural on an art gallery, Casimir the Great Street, Inowłódz.
I was lucky as I got the last portion of pierogi at Cafe Bona!
The first battery range at 30/50% Vado assistance. I bonked there. Took another rest for half an hour.
The Duchy of Mazovia had as many as three capital cities, each ruled by a sovereign Duke: Płock, Warsaw, and Rawa Mazowiecka. (Or course, there is a castle of Mazovian Dukes in Rawa, too). The road flanked by old trees is a common sight in Poland but Land of Łódź is particularly rich in such roads.
The town-hall of Rawa Mazowiecka. I liked the main square because it was full of greenery (a rare sight in the country of concrete main squares...)
Oh no, no, no! This single 2 km stretch of sand made me miss my return train, adding an hour to the trip! I had to walk my Vado for at least a mile! This view should give you some taste what "Mazovian Gravel" cycling is all about, and why I'm giving up the idea of gravel group rides in Mazovia! @Jeremy McCreary: Pathfinders could not handle it!
September 1st, and the hot summer still holds! It is one of the sights you enjoy during a hot late afternoon in Central Poland...
So, historically speaking, I rode from the Duchy of Mazovia to the Crown of Poland. The whole trip was 90 miles, 137 km of which was the main trip. I feel I've lost my strength. To little of riding! (A 0.9 Rab ride)
This map explains why Land of Łódź actually forms Central Poland.
I eventually decided to set off for a long ride for Sunday. However, it had to be done on my own terms (a stop whenever I needed it), and it had to be 100% asphalt
As I could potentially ride for 1 Rab, I started very early on the day. Got my Vado 6.0 to Skierniewice-Rawka by train and started riding at 7:50 am (I started my ride to the train stop as early as 6:28!) This time, almost the entire ride was confined to the Land of Łódź (a voivodeship or province).Necessary to mention it was pretty cold until noon, making the ride perfect for the time!
No time to take photos! My first stop was only in the village of Głuchów. It was not my first time there, still, I was impressed. The Borough of Głuchów looks like a model EU village! I could see different plates explaining how wisely the Borough used to apply for the EU funds, and how nicely they could use them. I really enjoyed resting there!
A former train station now converted to a home. The name of the building is "The PKP House" for the former Polish State Railways
I had no time for photography. Just let me tell you I was impressed with the countryside of Land of Łódź. Good asphalt roads, affluent farming area, rolling hills, and natural beauty. The province has tremendously developed for recent years! Note: Central Poland exactly means Land of Łódź. Warsaw is not located in Central Poland! (It is in Mazovia, NE).
It is poor quality gravel or dirt for most fire-roads in Poland's forests. The Land of Łódź can afford either premium gravel roads or even asphalt for its woods! Which makes Spała Landscape Park very popular among recreational cyclists, roller-skaters or runners.
Spała is a popular resort village near Tomaszów Mazowiecki. I had a big portion of ice-cream there. It started to be hot!
Necessary to mention there was a perfect fine gravel bike path from Spała to Inowłódz.
A mine of chalcedony in the town of Inowłódz. The company is probably the largest employer there, and it looked rich!
The Inowłódz Castle (King Casimir The Great Castle). Completed 1366, destroyed 1657, under reconstruction since 2007.
A historical note
King Casimir III the Great (reign: 1333-1370) who "inherited wooden Poland and left her fortified in stone and brick" is perceived as one of the greatest rulers of Poland. He was the monarch who eventually consolidated the state of Poland after several hundred of years collapse, reformed the law, funded the first University, and above all, he actually built Poland: fortified 30 towns and invested in 50 new border castles.
Yes, you read it correctly: "border castles". Why on earth should the border of the Crown of Poland be located on River Pilica, in Inowłódz? It was because there was mighty Duchy of Mazovia northwards of the river. Until 1526, the Duchy of Mazovia was an independent state (fortunately enough, friendly to Poland). Nowadays, Mazovia is the biggest and richest province of Poland, hosting her capital city. Go figure
Inowłódz was demoted to a village during the Partitions of Poland (1780) and restored to the town status on January 1st, 2024
A nice mural on an art gallery, Casimir the Great Street, Inowłódz.
I was lucky as I got the last portion of pierogi at Cafe Bona!
The first battery range at 30/50% Vado assistance. I bonked there. Took another rest for half an hour.
The Duchy of Mazovia had as many as three capital cities, each ruled by a sovereign Duke: Płock, Warsaw, and Rawa Mazowiecka. (Or course, there is a castle of Mazovian Dukes in Rawa, too). The road flanked by old trees is a common sight in Poland but Land of Łódź is particularly rich in such roads.
The town-hall of Rawa Mazowiecka. I liked the main square because it was full of greenery (a rare sight in the country of concrete main squares...)
Oh no, no, no! This single 2 km stretch of sand made me miss my return train, adding an hour to the trip! I had to walk my Vado for at least a mile! This view should give you some taste what "Mazovian Gravel" cycling is all about, and why I'm giving up the idea of gravel group rides in Mazovia! @Jeremy McCreary: Pathfinders could not handle it!
September 1st, and the hot summer still holds! It is one of the sights you enjoy during a hot late afternoon in Central Poland...
So, historically speaking, I rode from the Duchy of Mazovia to the Crown of Poland. The whole trip was 90 miles, 137 km of which was the main trip. I feel I've lost my strength. To little of riding! (A 0.9 Rab ride)
This map explains why Land of Łódź actually forms Central Poland.
Last edited:
Chargeride
Well-Known Member
Thats pretty soft sand, I'd probably have to change from ecoplus to eco to get through that desert
In unrelated news, just watched a review of Disco Polo music.
Hmmmmm.
In unrelated news, just watched a review of Disco Polo music.
Hmmmmm.
Chargeride
Well-Known Member
Fixed the puncture with one of those push in plugs, been up all night, but cant help but think its sat there waiting to be ripped out.
An internal patch seems a lot more permanent.
An internal patch seems a lot more permanent.
Stefan Mikes
Gravel e-biker
- Region
- Europe
- City
- Mazovia, PL
I rode exactly the same road on my 2.6" Giant Trance E+ with no issues back in 2020. I can remember that very clearly: there is a solitary tree by the road. There, a police car stood, apparently in an ambush for someone, or, to block any road in the area!Thats pretty soft sand, I'd probably have to change from ecoplus to eco to get through that desert
Spare me.
Watana Bob
Active Member
- Region
- USA
Great write up and epic ride Stefan! Love your history lessons that you include in your write ups.From the Duchy of Mazovia to the Crown of Poland (Inowłódz)
I eventually decided to set off for a long ride for Sunday. However, it had to be done on my own terms (a stop whenever I needed it), and it had to be 100% asphalt
Necessary to mention it was pretty cold until noon, making the ride perfect for the time!
View attachment 181575
No time to take photos! My first stop was only in the village of Głuchów. It was not my first time there, still, I was impressed. The Borough of Głuchów looks like a model EU village! I could see different plates explaining how wisely the Borough used to apply for the EU funds, and how nicely they could use them. I really enjoyed resting there!
View attachment 181576
A former train station now converted to a home. The name of the building is "The PKP House" for the former Polish State Railways
I had no time for photography. Just let me tell you I was impressed with the countryside of Land of Łódź. Good asphalt roads, affluent farming area, rolling hills, and natural beauty. The province has tremendously developed for recent years! Note: Central Poland exactly means Land of Łódź. Warsaw is not located in Central Poland! (It is in Mazovia, NE).
View attachment 181577
It is poor quality gravel or dirt for most fire-roads in Poland's forests. The Land of Łódź can afford either premium gravel roads or even asphalt for its woods! Which makes Spała Landscape Park very popular among recreational cyclists, roller-skaters or runners.
View attachment 181578
Spała is a popular resort village near Tomaszów Mazowiecki. I had a big portion of ice-cream there. It started to be hot!
Necessary to mention there was a perfect fine gravel bike path from Spała to Inowłódz.
View attachment 181579
A mine of chalcedony in the town of Inowłódz. The company is probably the largest employer there, and it looked rich!
View attachment 181580
The Inowłódz Castle (King Casimir The Great Castle). Completed 1366, destroyed 1657, under reconstruction since 2007.
A historical note
King Casimir III the Great (reign: 1333-1370) who "inherited wooden Poland and left her fortified in stone and brick" is perceived as one of the greatest rulers of Poland. He was the monarch who eventually consolidated the state of Poland after several hundred of years collapse, reformed the law, funded the first University, and above all, he actually built Poland: fortified 30 towns and invested in 50 new border castles.
Yes, you read it correctly: "border castles". Why on earth should the border of the Crown of Poland be located on River Pilica, in Inowłódz? It was because there was mighty Duchy of Mazovia northwards of the river. Until 1526, the Duchy of Mazovia was an independent state (fortunately enough, friendly to Poland). Nowadays, Mazovia is the biggest and richest province of Poland, hosting her capital city. Go figure
Inowłódz was demoted to a village during the Partitions of Poland (1780) and restored to the town status on January 1st, 2024
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A nice mural on an art gallery, Casimir the Great Street, Inowłódz.
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I was lucky as I got the last portion of pierogi at Cafe Bona!
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The first battery range at 30/50% Vado assistance. I bonked there. Took another rest for half an hour.
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The Duchy of Mazovia had as many as three capital cities, each ruled by a sovereign Duke: Płock, Warsaw, and Rawa Mazowiecka. (Or course, there is a castle of Mazovian Dukes in Rawa, too). The road flanked by old trees is a common sight in Poland but Land of Łódź is particularly rich in such roads.
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The town-hall of Rawa Mazowiecka. I liked the main square because it was full of greenery (a rare sight in the country of concrete main squares...)
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Oh no, no, no! This single 2 km stretch of sand made me miss my return train, adding an hour to the trip! I had to walk my Vado for at least a mile! This view should give you some taste what "Mazovian Gravel" cycling is all about, and why I'm giving up the idea of gravel group rides in Mazovia! @Jeremy McCreary: Pathfinders could not handle it!
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September 1st, and the hot summer still holds! It is one of the sights you enjoy during a hot late afternoon in Central Poland...
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So, historically speaking, I rode from the Duchy of Mazovia to the Crown of Poland. The whole trip was 90 miles, 137 km of which was the main trip. I feel I've lost my strength. To little of riding! (A 0.9 Rab ride)
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This map explains why Land of Łódź actually forms Central Poland.
Prairie Dog
Well-Known Member
- Region
- Canada
- City
- Red Deer
Bike minded people - Comradery and meeting new and old acquaintances seemed to be the theme on today’s ride.
It was another exceptional morning under azure skies.
Midway into our ride we crossed paths with another roadie who we’ve never met before. Bruce, like us, is not affiliated with any local cycling clubs so we hit if off immediately. He acquired his Hi-MOD Cannondale Supersix a year ago and has been avidly riding it ever since. Hope to meet up with him again sometime soon
Sending out some good vibes to another familiar face who we spotted along the way.
And another buddy Dave was just starting his ride out to Hwy 42 on his CD Synapse when we pulled over to the side of the road to chat. These might seem like small informal gatherings and greetings but they do make a difference in my mind.
The one consistent thing in these uncertain times is that cycling makes everyone happy. We all know that riding brings people together figuratively, physically and creates communities of like-minded folks, but perhaps the bigger benefit for many is that cycling brings a clarity of mind and thought.
It was another exceptional morning under azure skies.
Midway into our ride we crossed paths with another roadie who we’ve never met before. Bruce, like us, is not affiliated with any local cycling clubs so we hit if off immediately. He acquired his Hi-MOD Cannondale Supersix a year ago and has been avidly riding it ever since. Hope to meet up with him again sometime soon
Sending out some good vibes to another familiar face who we spotted along the way.
And another buddy Dave was just starting his ride out to Hwy 42 on his CD Synapse when we pulled over to the side of the road to chat. These might seem like small informal gatherings and greetings but they do make a difference in my mind.
The one consistent thing in these uncertain times is that cycling makes everyone happy. We all know that riding brings people together figuratively, physically and creates communities of like-minded folks, but perhaps the bigger benefit for many is that cycling brings a clarity of mind and thought.
Stefan Mikes
Gravel e-biker
- Region
- Europe
- City
- Mazovia, PL
A True Lunch E-Bike Ride
If you do not provide your own title, Strava would name it, like, "Morning E-Bike Ride" or "Lunch E-Bike Ride". Why not ride for lunch to Warsaw on Saturday if there is nothing better to do?
(Let me whisper to you one of the reasons for the ride was determining the Vado SL range at 60/80% assistance). Here, in the far Aleje Jerozolimskie, one of the city arteries, extending from Pruszków to the Vistula River in central Warsaw. The road is pretty safe on Sundays but traffic is pretty heavy on Saturdays. Still, I have no fear to ride in the Aleje, and then switch to the bike path system inside the city. (Necessary to mention, I am possibly one of the very few who dare to cycle in the Aleje!)
In the 1962 'Fregata' restaurant bar in Saska Kępa of Warsaw. Pierogi Ruskie (Rusyn or Ruthenian Pierogi), my favourite meal of Poland
The Food the Poles Invented (but pretend it was invented elsewhere)
In Park Skaryszewski, the Rosarium.
The park is now named Ignacy Paderewski Park for our famous pianist, politician, and then the Prime Minister of Republic of Poland after WW1.
A short historical note
Just neighbouring that park, there is a green recreational area by name Kamionek Election Fields. Under the Commonwealth of Both Nations (Poland and Lithuania), that is, when the country was a European superpower, there was the Free Election of the King, a part of the Nobility Democracy. Unlike the Sejm Wielki (the Parliament), to which only nobility representatives were delegated, any noble -- rich or poor -- could come to Warsaw and elect the King. As the Kamionek area was big, it could fit many thousand of nobility, their servants, horses, etc.
I admit I was not fond of the Park or the Election Fields in my youth, even if I could easily come there with my bike. The reason was youth gangs present there during that era... (Now, the level of safety is day vs night but still I cannot help my aversion...)
The skyline of Warsaw City as seen upon exiting the Park. The foreground is the newly reconstructed Warsaw Stadium train station. Behind (right), there is the Holy Cross (suspension) Bridge. Far left, there is the Varso Tower, which is the highest building in the European Union. Next, it is the 1955 Palace of Culture and Science (built by the Soviet). The third building is Złota 44 (44, Golden St.), probably the most expensive housing in Warsaw It is the only honest perspective view I could find so far!
On the Holy Cross Bridge. @Jeremy McCreary see the traditional cyclist struggling with the incline Besides, I later had to climb a 5.8% incline, one of the steepest in Warsaw, no problem!
Świętokrzyska (Holy Cross Street), March 19th, 2024. The City Centre is flanked by 1960s apartment blocks from the North. We stayed there together with @Brix in April this year. The reason for showing this photo is...
(The current photo, the same street). In April, there was a long day full of parties. When we run out of alcohol, our guests were doing 'pilgrimages' to the liquor store shown here How the times have changed... Nowadays, you can buy alcohol whenever you want in Warsaw. During them olden days, the alcohol selling at night was strictly prohibited, leading to the development of "melina", or illegal alcohol dens. Now, Świętokrzyska is teeming with life, also at night, with many restaurant operating round the clock!
Ride Map. The range (Main + Range Extender) @60/80%: 88 km (55 mi). Main battery range: 58 km (36 mi).
'What's going on, Officer?'
As I was passing the National Stadium by, I could see a lot of security and police there. I had to ask a security guard to let me go so I could enter the Stadium Station! Eventually, I stopped by a foot police patrol.
-- 'What's going on at the Stadium, Officer?'
-- 'There's a fighting' -- replied the man.
-- 'An MMA Gala' -- added the other.
-- 'A martial arts event' -- a female officer helped her less bright colleagues
-
If you do not provide your own title, Strava would name it, like, "Morning E-Bike Ride" or "Lunch E-Bike Ride". Why not ride for lunch to Warsaw on Saturday if there is nothing better to do?
(Let me whisper to you one of the reasons for the ride was determining the Vado SL range at 60/80% assistance). Here, in the far Aleje Jerozolimskie, one of the city arteries, extending from Pruszków to the Vistula River in central Warsaw. The road is pretty safe on Sundays but traffic is pretty heavy on Saturdays. Still, I have no fear to ride in the Aleje, and then switch to the bike path system inside the city. (Necessary to mention, I am possibly one of the very few who dare to cycle in the Aleje!)
In the 1962 'Fregata' restaurant bar in Saska Kępa of Warsaw. Pierogi Ruskie (Rusyn or Ruthenian Pierogi), my favourite meal of Poland
The Food the Poles Invented (but pretend it was invented elsewhere)
- Pierogi ruskie (Ruthenian Dumplings). The name suggests the potato/curd dumplings were invented in Ruthenia, now part of Ukraine. When you ask Ukrainians, they would say: 'It is Polish food for unknown reasons now called Ukrainian Pierogi; we have never had that food!'
- Chłodnik litewski (Lithuanian Cold Soup), which is a chilled red-beet soup served with sour cream and hard-boiled egg. Ask Lithuanians, and again they will say the same as the Ukrainian
- Placek węgierski (Hungarian Pancake). It is a folded pancake filled with beef stew and red pepper. The Hungarian have never heard of such a meal
- Fasolka po bretońsku (Breton Beans). Jumbo beans in tomato sauce with a lot of minced bacon/sausage. Never heard of in Brittany!
- Śledź po japońsku (Japanese Style Herring). A cold mix of herring, hard-boiled egg, gherkins, green peas, onion and apple. Japanese? Really?
- Ryba po grecku (Greek Style Fish). Decidedly not Greek food!
In Park Skaryszewski, the Rosarium.
The park is now named Ignacy Paderewski Park for our famous pianist, politician, and then the Prime Minister of Republic of Poland after WW1.
A short historical note
Just neighbouring that park, there is a green recreational area by name Kamionek Election Fields. Under the Commonwealth of Both Nations (Poland and Lithuania), that is, when the country was a European superpower, there was the Free Election of the King, a part of the Nobility Democracy. Unlike the Sejm Wielki (the Parliament), to which only nobility representatives were delegated, any noble -- rich or poor -- could come to Warsaw and elect the King. As the Kamionek area was big, it could fit many thousand of nobility, their servants, horses, etc.
I admit I was not fond of the Park or the Election Fields in my youth, even if I could easily come there with my bike. The reason was youth gangs present there during that era... (Now, the level of safety is day vs night but still I cannot help my aversion...)
The skyline of Warsaw City as seen upon exiting the Park. The foreground is the newly reconstructed Warsaw Stadium train station. Behind (right), there is the Holy Cross (suspension) Bridge. Far left, there is the Varso Tower, which is the highest building in the European Union. Next, it is the 1955 Palace of Culture and Science (built by the Soviet). The third building is Złota 44 (44, Golden St.), probably the most expensive housing in Warsaw
It is the only honest perspective view I could find so far!On the Holy Cross Bridge. @Jeremy McCreary see the traditional cyclist struggling with the incline
Besides, I later had to climb a 5.8% incline, one of the steepest in Warsaw, no problem!Świętokrzyska (Holy Cross Street), March 19th, 2024. The City Centre is flanked by 1960s apartment blocks from the North. We stayed there together with @Brix in April this year. The reason for showing this photo is...
(The current photo, the same street). In April, there was a long day full of parties. When we run out of alcohol, our guests were doing 'pilgrimages' to the liquor store shown here
How the times have changed... Nowadays, you can buy alcohol whenever you want in Warsaw. During them olden days, the alcohol selling at night was strictly prohibited, leading to the development of "melina", or illegal alcohol dens. Now, Świętokrzyska is teeming with life, also at night, with many restaurant operating round the clock!Ride Map. The range (Main + Range Extender) @60/80%: 88 km (55 mi). Main battery range: 58 km (36 mi).
'What's going on, Officer?'
As I was passing the National Stadium by, I could see a lot of security and police there. I had to ask a security guard to let me go so I could enter the Stadium Station! Eventually, I stopped by a foot police patrol.
-- 'What's going on at the Stadium, Officer?'
-- 'There's a fighting' -- replied the man.
-- 'An MMA Gala' -- added the other.
-- 'A martial arts event' -- a female officer helped her less bright colleagues
-
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Prairie Dog
Well-Known Member
- Region
- Canada
- City
- Red Deer
Yeah, what are the chances of that occurring? Complete strangers (Dave being the exception) all riding the same brand of bike. According to this article, Cannondale ranks lower in popularity among Canucks compared to other major brands. It appears that Specialized is the overall king in the Canadian market. Made in Canada, eh? On my own local trails, Rocky Mountain and Norco have a strong presence among mtb riders with good reason seeing that they are domestic products.
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Stefan Mikes
Gravel e-biker
- Region
- Europe
- City
- Mazovia, PL
Less Than Three Weeks To The Great Lakes Gravel Race!
Good news: As for now, there will be three competitors for the e-Sprint format, making the podium full, no shame. If all the competitors reach the finish line of course!
The rules of the electric race have been simplified:
The battery range might be an issue. I might go with my own standard ECO of 55/55%, SPORT at 50/100%, and TURBO for climbs (the max climb of 8.4%).
The GLG e-Sprint route.
The regional map.
Good news: As for now, there will be three competitors for the e-Sprint format, making the podium full, no shame. If all the competitors reach the finish line of course!
The rules of the electric race have been simplified:
- A production e-bike
- Speed restriction: 25 km/h
- The factory battery
- 84 km (50+ miles)
- 500+ m elevation gain
- Gravel or asphalt.
The battery range might be an issue. I might go with my own standard ECO of 55/55%, SPORT at 50/100%, and TURBO for climbs (the max climb of 8.4%).
The GLG e-Sprint route.
The regional map.
Jeremy McCreary
Well-Known Member
- Region
- USA
- City
- Carlsbad, CA
Seems like you ride 20-40 km everyday, season permitting. How much distance do you rack up a year?
RabH
Well-Known Member
Is your weather good every day? it certainly seems to be and I'm just a little jealous despite it being lovely here today...
Its supposed to be nice tomorrow also so I will almost certainly be out on the bike tomorrow after missing out today!
