The Downriver region of the St Clair County is a great place to bicycle tour. Those of us around this area know this. We have a major waterway, parks, islands, an international border, and many routes that allow us to ride in relative safety.
My goal here is to provide touring/riding opportunities for 3 speed bicycles that would otherwise not be available in other cycling activities. Let's face it, such bicycles have gearing limitations when compared to those derailleur equipped. However, we have advantages too. For many, the more upright riding style is more comfortable as well as providing a greater ease of visibility. The more relaxed geometries provide softer handling characteristics. Lastly, many of us like the classics that have appeared over the years. By events being focused on the 3 speed bicycle we can enjoy ourselves with others of a like mind. Many will come from a vintage perspective not only in the bicycle ridden but also in terms of mindset. Does one really need to have the latest and greatest to enjoy a day of touring, some think not.
The pace is casual. Why be in a hurry if you are trying to see things. Nevertheless the attempt will always be made to group up according to speed. Some like to ride at 5-10, others at 10-14, and a few even faster but I doubt it. Some may want to ride 5 miles and others 60. There will always be route and distance options.
My goal here is to provide touring/riding opportunities for 3 speed bicycles that would otherwise not be available in other cycling activities. Let's face it, such bicycles have gearing limitations when compared to those derailleur equipped. However, we have advantages too. For many, the more upright riding style is more comfortable as well as providing a greater ease of visibility. The more relaxed geometries provide softer handling characteristics. Lastly, many of us like the classics that have appeared over the years. By events being focused on the 3 speed bicycle we can enjoy ourselves with others of a like mind. Many will come from a vintage perspective not only in the bicycle ridden but also in terms of mindset. Does one really need to have the latest and greatest to enjoy a day of touring, some think not.
The pace is casual. Why be in a hurry if you are trying to see things. Nevertheless the attempt will always be made to group up according to speed. Some like to ride at 5-10, others at 10-14, and a few even faster but I doubt it. Some may want to ride 5 miles and others 60. There will always be route and distance options.
There are many of what are called "Tweed" rides springing up around the world these days. In addition, there is the "Cycle Chic" and "Slow" bicycle movements taking shape. These are variations of a theme, the use of bicycles for everyday practical purposes, with more or less of a fashion/style statement. Some of this is a reaction to the congestion caused by motor vehicles in urban areas. People are now looking for options. The bicycle is surfacing to be one of them.
Some of these "Tweed" rides are rather strict in terms of bicycle and attire but my rides are not, just leave the lycra at home. I do encourage appropriate casual wear though, whatever your style statement. Since most of these other rides are quite distant I figured why not do one locally since we have such a beautiful area to tour.
Stretching things a bit I am also into "adventure touring" so to speak and yes that means on my 3 speed. As an experienced backpacker, cyclist, canoeist, and motorcycle tourer I pretty much had everything I needed to use my 3 speed. Overnight trips are easy to manage with just a couple of items fitted to the bike. It sure beats carrying it all on your back. Not limited to surfaced roads means an infinite number of places to explore. Watch my blog page for either completed trips or ideas in the planning stage. By the way isn't that header pic on the blog page priceless.
Hopefully, this will give all of you 3 speed owners motivation to pull out that old bike from years past, give it a good going over, and be ready to join us for our rides. By the way, don't forget to bring your camera.
Some of these "Tweed" rides are rather strict in terms of bicycle and attire but my rides are not, just leave the lycra at home. I do encourage appropriate casual wear though, whatever your style statement. Since most of these other rides are quite distant I figured why not do one locally since we have such a beautiful area to tour.
Stretching things a bit I am also into "adventure touring" so to speak and yes that means on my 3 speed. As an experienced backpacker, cyclist, canoeist, and motorcycle tourer I pretty much had everything I needed to use my 3 speed. Overnight trips are easy to manage with just a couple of items fitted to the bike. It sure beats carrying it all on your back. Not limited to surfaced roads means an infinite number of places to explore. Watch my blog page for either completed trips or ideas in the planning stage. By the way isn't that header pic on the blog page priceless.
Hopefully, this will give all of you 3 speed owners motivation to pull out that old bike from years past, give it a good going over, and be ready to join us for our rides. By the way, don't forget to bring your camera.