Ever since I bought a used bike and my wife restored her old one, she’s been bugging me to get out and ride the new Swamp Rabbit Trail extension in Traveler’s Rest, SC. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is named for the defunct railroad line that used to pass through the area until 1993. Eventually, it will connect to the larger Rails to Trails network that spans the East Coast. I’ve been reluctant to ride the trail because it’s still a work in progress. All of the rails and ties have been removed, but the path isn’t completely paved. Our bikes are old and without shocks, and I like my teeth the way they are. Still, we headed out to Travelers Rest and started riding toward Greenville. We didn’t know how much of the trail was finished, but we’d heard that portion was in good condition.

This benchmark is full of information.

Read the rest of this entry »

I tried to do the 100 Push-Up Challenge last summer, but lost interest after about a month. Now that my wife and I have bikes, we’ll be riding to stay in shape. Cycling is really big around here.

Within a couple of miles (in any direction) from my house, I have a farmers market, a local butcher, a chain grocery store, and several restaurants. So I can use the bike to run several errands, as long as it’s not too hot. In honor of this new challenge to ride my way to a thinner waistline, I turn to the master for inspiration.

Read the rest of this entry »

My wife and I recently stayed at the Jekyll Island Club on Jekyll Island, GA.

Read the rest of this entry »

A few weeks ago, I picked up this bike at a used sporting goods store:

I’ve been wanting to start riding again, but decided it would be best to get something cheap until I know if I’ll follow through or not. I only work three miles from the office, and I’m hoping I can ride to/from work a day or two each week. So I actually I need fenders and a luggage rack. Now we just need to get my wife a new bike.