Tuesday, December 27, 2011

The world from the saddle

I am really looking forward to going on our first bicycle tour with the kids. There are no plans as yet, but I think in a couple of years, they will be ready to experience the joy of seeing the world from the saddle.

As far as cycle tourists go, I am still pretty much a beginner, and a beginner who is very much out of practise. The last tour I went on was about 6 years ago, when one of my best mates and I rode from John O'Groats in Scotland, down to Lands End in Cornwall during a summer holiday. My only other experience was when Em and I rode for 5 odd months through Western Europe. What a great experience that was! So it has been both a limited experience and a long past one.

I love bikes and bike riding, so the idea of riding each and every day for an extended journey sounds perfect to me. The idea of introducing this concept to my son and daughter is fantastic.

There is some time to go before we set off, even on an overnight ride (although, I would like to do this pretty soon). I think young kids would fit into the rhythm of cycle touring. The repetitiveness combined with unique experiences, the constant movement, the regular chats to those you pass, and the constant eating would suit our two. You get to see so much, moving at a faster pace than those walking, yet not missing much around you.

In the meantime, I will continue to enjoy my rides from home. At times I head for the hills. This last Saturday I took Em's camera with me (and got told off when she couldn't find it) and stopped to take some photos. These are all literally 'from the saddle' of my bike- didn't even bother to unclip both feet. It gives you an idea of what you can see on a Saturday morning before breakfast!

 The long drag out to the hills

 Eventually, suburbia gives way to the wonderfully beautiful Swan Valley wineries

 A cruise through the historical town of Guildford

 and on to the hills

 Looking back towards home- it really is flat!

Up at Kalamunda- this hill always hurts me. Always.

Back home for a coffee, shower and to enjoy the day with the family. Not a bad way to start a day!


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