bicycle

Travel Bigly

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. — Mark Twain

The World is an Interesting Place

The world is a big place. Endeavor to see it all. At the end of your life, you will be glad you did. Go places that interest you. Travel opens your eyes to the world and expands your mind to other perspectives. Go and experience people and places for yourself. Let your mind do its own thinking. Your life will be much richer for the effort.

People, places, and things are often quite different from what’s presented in the mainstream media. Experience the world first hand. See how the other half lives. Most of the time, it’s not what you think. The world over, most people are good human beings and are just like you — trying to get through the world the best they can.

[Read more…] about Travel Bigly

On Deliberate Wandering

by Johnny Isaak ·

Not all who wander are lost. — J.R.R. Tolkien

Wandering is where the magic happens. Deliberate or purposeful wandering creates most of the excitement, adventure, makes for the best experiences.

Travelogue: Winter Sunrise on Gaolong Bay

by Johnny Isaak ·

It’s those special mornings on the road when you’re up before dawn in the early morning hours out chasing the light. Camera in hand, walking in the sand along a quiet beach are those extraordinary moments to be savored and remembered.

Late winter in Hainan, China’s most southern province, brings with it a dense morning fog that hangs in the air over land and sea well into midday. A thin, golden light dances on soft ripples gently lapping at the shore. There are no crashing waves here. Salty wisps of a fresh sea breeze touch the senses. Cool moisture in the dawning air makes the pilings weep and wet to the touch.

My Hybrid Long-Distance Setup

by Johnny Isaak ·

One of the most often asked questions I receive from the people I meet along the way and on my blog is, “What and how do you carry all of your stuff?”

To share with other riders who are interested in how other bicycle travelers, or at least how one other traveler sets up their/his rig, I’ve put together a few points on the kit I travel with, how I carry it, the basic method I used to determine the two in the hopes other riders will benefit.

Travelogue: Osaka Castle Japan

by Johnny Isaak ·

Osaka Castle, or Osakajo, is a 16th-century fortress that lies in the middle of the steel and glass towers of modern Osaka. At one time, the bastion was the largest castle in Japan.

Over the centuries, the stronghold has endured attacks, been burned down, and left decades in a state of ruin. Remarkably, the stone and earthen ramparts somehow survived city-wide aerial bombardments and air raids during World War II. After the war, the city gradually restored the castle to one of Japan’s famous landmark it is today.

FiveFingers and Flat Pedals

by Johnny Isaak ·

About 18 months ago, I made a conscious effort to adopt a “slow speed” traveling style during future cycling adventures, which wasn’t a bad thing. Getting away from the daily push for distance and concentrating more on exploring has dramatically enriched my travel experience. Going slower is a better fit for my traveling style.

As part of my new slower, more deliberate travel style, I also made the jump from clipless to flat pedals so I could wear my beloved Vibram FiveFingers minimalist shoes while riding the bicycle — which was no easy decision. Like most road cyclists and many mountain bikers, I’d cycled with toe clips or “rat traps” in the 70’s. In the 80’s I began riding clipless pedals for the higher efficiency, convenience, and comfort. Well, the cycle has come full circle. I’m back to rolling on flat pedals again.

If you’re looking for an alternative pedaling solution, FiveFingers and flat pedal may be what you’re looking for. Read on.

Travelogue: Katsura River Sunset

by Johnny Isaak ·

With the autumn closing in, the evening temperatures dropped quickly. The first pockets of crisp night air bit at our noses as we made our way along the banks of the Katsura River.

The landscape grew a deep gold. Looking back over my left shoulder, I caught a glimpse of the sun’s light fading. There’s a certain feeling I get when I look to the west while the sun is setting.

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