Sunday, June 9, 2013

Wisconsin Bike Rides Provide Great Exercise

By Freida McCall


Wisconsin bike rides are a great experience for nearly any age. Not only do they help improve your fitness level but they are also good for the environment. While many riders are professionals, most people just enjoy touring the scenery and Wisconsin has some of the best scenery around.

Bicycles were first made in the 19th Century but have expanded widely since then. Today nearly a billion people ride bicycles around the world. In fact, this is the primary mode of transportation in many countries. Society benefits as well, since it reduces fossil fuel consumption and traffic congestion.

Bicycle riders gain many advantages from riding. Health benefits from regular exercising are well known. Additionally, cycling is convenient and riders find it easier to maneuver in traffic and access roads. Also, financially cyclists can benefit because they do not have to put gas in their bicycle.

There are some who ride professional, such as racers. This includes both people who race mountain bikes and those who race high performance cycles. There are huge prizes at stake for the performers and the racing organizers have put restrictions on riders and on the bicycles to attempt to keep people from cheating. Utility bikes are common in many other countries and they are often reinforced to carry large loads.

Wisconsin has a diverse geology, including both high and lowlands. More than 46 percent of the state is covered with forests. The state is fairly hot and humid during the summer, although it does not normally go much higher than 85 degrees F even on the hottest summer days. It gets extremely cold during the winter, though, and the typical snow fall is around 40 inches.

Great River Road Bikeway provides a great experience for riders in the state. The trail stretches along 250 miles and some riders ride the entire thing. Others choose a certain segment that they feel matches their experience level. Parts of the trail are located in the Great River State Trail. However, other parts of the trail are next both lightly and heavily trafficked roads. Along the trail you will find many small towns on the route and riders can stop for food, water, or sleep.

Of course, bicycle riding has its own risks. Many riders travel alongside vehicles whose drivers do not pay attention. Even though some areas have bike lanes, others are very rural and you will be riding on the road itself. There are health risks as well; these come from riding on a seat that is not fitted properly or by overextending yourself in the beginning. This can result in knee injuries or even nerve damage. Also, the right equipment is important. You should always wear a helmet, good shoes, and you should make sure your cycle is equipped with adequate lighting.

There are many exciting opportunities for Wisconsin bike rides. Wisconsin Department of Transportation offers a biking guide that can help you locate touring trails, mountain bike locations, and other road routes. Always make sure you have the proper equipment and that the trail you have chosen is appropriate considering your fitness level and experience.




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