Migration Photos

[youtube:82DzpLZ547I?fs=1;[link:Elings Park SoCal Mountain Bike Racing_Dreamscape Images];http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82DzpLZ547I?fs=1&feature=related]The pale gray sky reminded me of the east coast, not the beautiful horizon of Santa Barbara. Some local hikers trekked up the path and I asked what happened to the California weather. They reminded me it was June glum; the weather condition occurring mostly in June when the fog rolls into the California coastline to paint a dreary scenery.

Today, the beneficiaries of June glum were the Cat 3 riders at the Elings Park mountain bike race. The cool weather was sure to keep dehydration problems to a minimum. For the late Cat 1 starters, that was not the case as the sun pierced the morning fog by midday.

The Elings Park mountain bike event is one of the largest in the area and sure to remind people that Santa Barbara is one of the premier places in California to take a trip with the family. With its lush green hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s a good idea to bring a camera along for the memories.

To capture some speed in motion, I decided to bring out the video camera today. With its mix of single track trails and fire roads on a multi-lap course with plenty twist and turns, there would be many opportunities to capture some good footage.

With the hills on this course, a solid warm-up is mandatory. Shortly after the start of the race…you are going vertical. The race is made up of fire roads and single track trails, which climb to the top of Elings Park before descending. During the second lap near the beginning, the course turns off from the first lap trail and tackles plenty of winding trails and U-Turns to the top.

After capturing some video and still images, I found an excellent shooting position on the second lap ascent. The day was going as planned. So far, I had not fallen down any hills with my camera gear. Later in the day, I realized the day was still young.

The Cat 1 and 2 riders looked strong as the sun welcomed the riders with high 70 degree temperatures. My goal today was to capture these mountain bikers at close range so I climbed the hills surrounding the course to find the best angle and the heart beat of this race. After slipping down a few hills, I managed to create some serious ventilation in my clothing - an eight inch rip in my jeans from the crotch down the pant leg. Thankfully, anyone coming my way only cared about one thing going fast.

The MTB racers were given a splendid view of the Pacific Ocean once they climb to the top of the course. However, with the winding trails, the view was short lived.

Deep in some bushes with the winding, single track trail looping around me, I managed to find a good shooting point where I could capture the MTB competitors riding the twisting trail in front of me.

After capturing a few riders and satisfied I got the footage necessary, I managed to checkout my surroundings. It was at that moment that I realized one of the disadvantages of being in the zone. There I stood with an eight inch tear down my pant leg surrounded by poison ivy! The Elings Park mountain bike race will always hold a special memory for me. It reminded me that I too have to watch the path in front of me.

If you are looking for a great race to take the family for a few days, the Elings Park mountain bike race is one of the best. Put together by Team Big Bear, the race is sure to challenge your mountain bike fitness level.

Staying on the trail is highly recommended.

Keith Rejino is a sports photographer for Dreamscape Images, a personal trainer, triathlete and MTB rider. His Socal Mountain Bike website provides mountain bike event coverage, training and sports nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more mountain bike event coverage, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.

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Tags: bike, bike racing, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain bike racing, mountain biking, mtb race, sports, sports competition

If you struggle to stay fit and trim in the off season, then using a turbo trainer may be the answer!

The turbo trainer clamps your rear wheel into a roller which (either magnetic or wind) provides the resistance to help you train like you would on the road.

Get fit this winter with a turbo trainer:

* Set up your turbo trainer in the garage and escape the cold and wet weather

* If you have suffered an injury, such as a broken collarbone you can use the static bike to help ease back into your training

* If you need to train on your sprinting, then the turbo trainer can help you by providing massive resistance for building your sprinting muscles

* Why not get a few people together and make winter turbo training a fun team sport. If you get a load of buddies together you can help each other push harder, train better and why not club together and hire a hall with a large music system!

Turbo training can be boring, so it’s important to know this before you spend a months wages on the best you can - you need to understand that your body will hurt during the first few sessions, this means many people use them a few times and then stop.

You need to see if you enjoy turbo training before you spend a vast amount of money on one - so restrict spending to around 100/$150. There is no need to spend a massive amount of money if you are starting out - wait until you know you really enjoy using a trainer first.

If you really enjoy it - then the next level takes you into adjustment, readouts (showing power output, calories burned etc).

Top end turbo trainers have virtual reality features and you can plug them into your computer and race in virtual reality - some of the better models from Tacx even allow you to race people in other countries live!

Johnny Ratcliffe is a semi-pro racing cyclist from the United Kingdom and trains extensively on turbo trainers all fall. His site Turbo Trainer has more information, and you can purchase by visiting: Best Turbo Trainers

categories: training,turbo training,cycling,mountain biking,road racing,cycling,bikes,exercise,fitness,health

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Tags: bikes, cycling, exercise, fitness, health, mountain biking, road racing, training, turbo training

For those who covet active lifestyles, road bikes make the perfect accessories. For those interested in cheap and casual commuting and training for triathlons, these type of bikes are great. Certain things should be considered, however, for people who are interested in buying a road bike in Melbourne.

Road bicycles also serve important purposes for their users. They can be a inexpensive and highly efficient forms of transportation as they require only a little maintenance. They’re also ideal for athletes who are training thanks to their multiple gear modes and sturdy builds.

Most bike hobbyists faced with the decision of buying a new road bike often debate on whether or not to go with a previously owned one. With road bicycles, most people will tell you that purchasing a new one is the preferred option. Although there are some excellent used bicycles available, many will still cost a lot. That, paired with the warranties that bike stores often throw in, it’s generally best to go with a new bike.

Before a quest for the perfect bicycle can take place, you should first decide upon the make and model of road bike that will fit your specific needs. How you intend to use the new device should help determine the type you buy. The materials it is constructed from will make a big difference also.

To begin your bicycle search, check out local bike shops and online websites and ads. Good road bikes can be quite expensive so it is important that you look around and get the best deal possible. Many specialty shops will throw in warranties and free tune ups as well so make sure and keep your eyes peeled for these special offers.

When you look at potential bicycles in person, the best thing you can accomplish is getting a fit. Ask an experienced salesperson or manager measure your dimensions in the shop. Every make of road bike is inconsistent so picking the wrong one for your body type can end with damaged shoulders or a sore neck.

Finally, before making your final decision, be sure to have an idea of your budget in mind. A road bike can range in price from five thousand dollars down to one hundred. You’ll be less likely to have a salesman pressure you into purchasing something you can’t afford if you know how much you can spend beforehand. That being said, never do business with a salesman or store that uses force as a sales method.

In conclusion, road bikes can be wonderful investments whether you just enjoy riding a bike to work or are looking to train seriously for an event. Before you get one, be sure and do your research and find out which type of bike will work best for your needs. Whether it is aluminum or steel, the type of material a bike is made of is a big decision too. Be sure to stay on budget and get fitted for your bike by a trusted professional and soon you’ll have a trusted bike that should last you a number of years.

Find fabulous prices on bicycles for sale Melbourne by searching online. Find the many types of giant road bike choices you have. Head online today and learn more.

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Tags: cycling, cycling Australian, cycling Melbourne, fitness, mountain biking, sports and recreation

There is a lot to explore while Australia. With so many different types of terrain, there is a need for different ways to get around. This is especially true when considering bike riding. Buying bikes in Melbourne can be a real treat. There is a lot of hilly terrain and the best type of bike would be BMX. If that is not your style, then Melbourne offers plenty of places to ride around in the city also. Choosing a bike can be difficult, because there are so many options to choose from.

With so many different bikes to choose from, some buyers can get confused. It doesn’t take much information to know what you should get. With a few tips, you should be able to do just fine.

Know what you want. When you go without prior research, it can be very difficult to select what you want. One of the best resources to go to are the people that work in the bike shop. They probably love biking and can offer a lot of advice. Just remember, the advice is free, the bike isn’t.

You can also research on the internet. Understand the basics of bike riding. There are different bikes for every kind of terrain. If you like to go off road then a BMX is the ticket. If you like speed, then a racing bike would be for you. Decide what kind of bike riding experience you want, then research that are of riding.

Knowing what bike you want means know what terrain you will be riding on. If you know Australia, then you know that there are several opportunities for adventure. Plan ahead about what parts of the city you would like to visit. If you plan a route, then you will know which bike to get. If your route leads you over rough roads, then make sure that your bike can handle it.

When you choose your bike, remember to take it out for a test before you buy it. This is the only real way to know if you and the bike are suited for one another. The bike shops should be OK with you taking a test ride. If you find that you are having trouble with the bike, then you should not get it. The ride should be easy, and smooth. If it has been some time since you last rode, then also take that into consideration. After a few minutes, you should be able to go full speed again.

When you buy a bike without assembly, then it could be a long day of trying to put it together. See if the shop offers this service. That way you know the bike is sturdy and you won’t be constantly second guessing your work. It might cost a little bit extra, but it will be completely worth it. If you miss one bolt or screw, then you could be headed for an injury. Speaking of injury, while you are looking for a bike, also take a look at some of their protective gear. A helmet may look ridiculous, but it is a few extra layers that keep your head from meeting the ground.

Buying bikes in Melbourne can be truly, very easy. Bike riding is one of the healthiest activities around. It should be stress free, and fun, while also really good exercise. Once you have found your bike, checked it for safety, and put on your helmet and other protective gear, then you are ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Find great prices on Melbourne Bikes by shopping online. There you will find many choices for a Bike Shop Melbourne and other locations too. Head online today and get more.

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Beads of sweat poured down my face as I trekked up the sloped hill looking for the best photo shoot location. I was back shooting sports again after my short sabbatical. Today’s photo shoot was at the California Golden State Championship mountain bike event in Fontana, CA on May 15th.

The cross country mountain bikers flying down the rocky trail on the multi-lap course I’d seen before, or at least, most of them. Today, I preferred to shoot the MTB riders looking good on the downhill portion of the course. A race volunteer advised that most of the mountain bikers were walking up the tough uphill portion.

This was the third race in a four event series put on by SRC and major sponsor Kenda. With the Fontana sun blaring down, it was a reminder that the next SRC summer event in August would be more challenging for these mountain bike riders.

The multi-lap course was a mixture of rolling fire roads and single track trails with one major climb and descent. Near the top of the course on the big downhill section, the mountain bikers navigated an almost 90 degree turn before shooting down the rocky fire trail. Many of the MTB riders smiled for the camera, but after the first few laps, most had no energy for a pose.

David Santos captured 1st place in the XC mountain bike race in 1:29:07 with 2nd and 3rd place going to Griffith Vertican and Garnet Vertican in 1:34:07 and 1:41:05, respectively. For the women’s race, Heather Rose took 1st place and a fourth overall finish against the men in 1:53:12.

For the women’s downhill competition, Gabriela Williams captured 1st with Kelly Damschen taking 2nd place. In the men’s division, David Klaassen VanOorschot was the fastest of the day with Rich Houseman and Ryan Egusquiza picking up the 2nd and 3rd place slots.

Heather Rose, the women’s XC mountain bike winner, captured another victory in the women’s Super D. The men’s division leaders were Ryan Equsquiza in 1st followed by Eric Bierman in 2nd place.

For Mountain Bike Information, check out Keith Rejino’s website at Dreamscape Images mountain bike website for mental training tip, mtb news and sport nutrition guidelines.

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Tags: bicycling, bike, bike riding, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain biking, mtb, sport, sporting event, sports

There’s always some new sport brewing, whether it’s something more extreme that somehow makes its way to the mainstream, like skateboarding and rollerblading, or something so weird that not many people are ever going to take it up, like kiteboarding or skydiving. And most sports that have been created have something to do with invention and innovation, where there’s a need for a new use for an area, or an object.

A growing number of alternative sports for independent-minded people of all ages have been succeeding lately in The States, but nothing is doing quite as well as mountain biking, which has managed to carve out a niche previously only seen for skateboarders, who transformed from weirdos to mainstream. With a variety of different styles and methods, mountain biking is quickly sweeping the nation.

Rather than simply riding a bicycle across town, or even riding one around a track, mountain biking freed the bicycle from its pavement environment. Now, riding a bicycle was more about balance, since mountain trails had to be dealt with. Different riders, in urban areas, even put their own twist on things and figured out ways to make city riding challenging, taking to natural obstacles in much the same way that skateboarders did.

But more than that, there are different types of mountain biking, some of which spend time on more manicured surfaces, some who go all out and head to the middle of nowhere, and others where the riding is more built on creating one’s own type of style and implementing it, but in the dirt instead of out on the street.

The best way to get to know mountain biking is by getting to know the different categories of riding. There’s trails, where bicyclists can be either in a more urban area or off-road, but the main goal of hopping over different objects without placing feet on the ground. It looks a little bit like those courses with jumps and hills, but is a little more extreme.

Next, there’s dirt jumping, one of the other newer variations of the sport, which involves launching bicycles and riders off of man-made or naturally occurring jumps, where the object is to complete a series of tricks before landing on the ground. The protective gear for this is usually more extreme, and riders usually have a great deal of practice before heading into this style of riding.

Since not everyone has access to mountain trails or even large urban parks, a popular style for those living in cities, especially teenagers, is known as urban or street riding. The only gear needed here is a bicycle, usually one with a smaller frame and smaller wheels that is lighter to carry. Riders go out alone or in groups, and like skateboarders who used to figure out how to ride railings and sidewalks, do very much the same thing with their bicycles. Balance and creativity is a huge component to this style of riding.

The best jumping off point for most riders is simple cross-country, which can encompass any number of different environments, terrains, and conditions. A cross-country mountain bike ride can be a simple affair, with lots of break time to enjoy the weather, or it can be more strenuous and involve a great deal of attempting to ride uphill, to navigate slippery or muddy areas, or having to jump around obstacles.

There are also newer, more intense takes on previously existing forms of mountain biking seen as more professional and challenging. One, known as short cross or speed cross, pits riders against a very short, very challenging trail. Usually, there are a great deal more obstacles, and the trail is a lot thinner. This is not a good starting point, and is recommended for experts only.

No matter the style, there’s no mistaking how helpful this sport can be to building a connection for the young and the old alike with taking their sporting endeavors outside. Like many sports of innovation, mountain biking and all of its new forms is truly here to stay.

Damian Papworth adores the thrill of mountain biking, but always ensures he takes his bike water bottles for his trips. A cycling water bottle is so important to maintaining hydration in this grueling sport.

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Tags: biking, cycling, exercise, extreme, fitness, health, Health and Fitness, lifestyle, mountain biking, people, recreation, sport, sport and, travel

Whatever type of bicycling you prefer ” BMX, Mountain or Road bicycling, Marin is a great place to do it. The terrain popular with BMXers, as well as established biking trails, and paved bike pathways are all found throughout the County. It is quite well known that Marin County was the birthplace of Mountain biking. BMX and Mountain biking aside, the most popular form of biking nowadays is Road bicycling.

Beginning with some history, its interesting to know that well-known BMX biker Billy Savage lived and biked in Marin from 1976 to 1983, but BMX, as a category, isnt as common in Marin as the other types of biking.

Designed for stunts, tricks, and racing on hilly dirt BMX tracks, BMX bicycles have a have a single gear ratio with a freewheel and are built with smaller frames and wheels with wider, treaded tires. They have to be extremely sturdy machines because they take a beating during some extreme sporting events!

When BMX events were part of the 2008 Summer Olympics in China it was clear that BMX had finally arrived. There were events in four different venues, which was a first for the sport. Half of the first six medals in BMX racing ever awarded in the history of the Olympics went to U.S. cyclists.

Mountain biking is rough and tough going and a good day isnt complete without getting at least some mud in your teeth. The Web site www.klunkerz.com provides complete information about each of the individuals who participated in mountain biking in Marin during the 1970s to make it the world-class sport that it is today.

Joe Breeze, Gary Fisher and others converted cruisers and balloon-tire bicycles into machines that could weather any type of road conditions. Mountain biking pioneers did a lot of their biking on downhill trails they carved out around Mount Tamalpais in the 1970s.

Billy Savage recently directed a film about the early days of mountain biking in Marin called Klunkerz. In the process of making his film, what he found fascinating is that all the pioneers are very committed to the bicycle as transportation, and to the ecological and physical benefits of cycling to this day. They gave those old Klunkerz a new life, rescuing them out of trashcans and junkyards. They were reducing, reusing, and recycling long before it was hip to be green. They all continue to live this way in all aspects of their lives.

Road bicycling has become very popular in recent years as the county establishes more bike paths where serious road cyclists can do some serious biking. The Marin County Bicycling Coalition (www.marinbike.org) promotes safe bicycling for everyday transportation and recreation. Marin County is one of only four counties nationwide that are engaged in a federal Non-motorized Transportation Pilot Program that promotes road bicycling, particularly commuting. The goal of The Marin County Bicycle Coalition is for 20% of trips in Marin County to be made by walking or bicycling.

All the latest about this and other initiatives underway under the umbrella of this ambitious organization may be found on the MCBC Web site. One of the Web pages has links to a marvelous array of information-packed pages, including:

* (More than) 50 Good Reasons to Bicycle

* Basic Cycling Essentials

* Bike Riding for Fun

* Bicycle Etiquette

* Commuting By Bike

* Bicycle Map of Marin (free when joining the Marin County Bicycling Coalition)

* Riding directions via the North-South Greenway from San Francisco to Petaluma

* Riding over the Golden Gate Bridge

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Tags: cycling, exercise, fitness, health, marin county california, mountain biking, san francisco bay area travel, sports

Today, mountain biking is the primary recreation choice for millions of people worldwide, young, old and in between. It offers fun, excitement, and a good workout. Definitely the best way to see the countryside.

Naturally, popularity brings more choices and with more manufacturers, brands and different types of bikes available, it can sometimes be quite difficult to choose correctly. In this article we will discuss what you have to look for when shopping for a mountain bike.

The first thing you should decide on is your price range. You can spend a few hundred or a few thousand dollars on a bike. To keep things under control you should determine your price range and look at bikes within that range.

The next important step is to decide what kind of bike is right for you. There are different types of bikes for different needs. You can choose from all mountain, cross country, freeride, downhill or trail. Each type is designed for different terrain and riding style and has its own pros and cons.

One of the most important part of buying a new bike is choosing the right size. If the bike doesn’t fit you, you will be uncomfortable and won’t feel safe. Sizes usually refer to the frame sizes. Here are the most common frame sizes depending on your height: 17″ is for people between 5′4″ and 5′11″, 19″ for those between 5′11″ and 6′2″, and 21″ and up are for people that are taller than 6′2″.

If you choose the right time to buy a bike, you can save quite a bit of money. You should avoid the peak buying season - spring and summer. The best time to buy is fall and winter. In those months sales dip, plus next year’s models come out, so you’re more likely to get a good deal on older models.

And finally, don’t forget about safety and comfort. Helmet, water bottle, gloves, glasses and one of the most important pieces of biking gear you will ever buy - padded biking shorts.

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Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation, sports

Today, mountain biking is extremely popular all around the world and still increasing in popularity. It’s fun, enjoyable, exciting and it keeps you in good physical shape. What’s there not to like?

Of course, with popularity comes more choice, but with so many manufacturers and brands and types and whatnot around, it has become quite a complicated task to choose the right mountain bike. Hopefully, this article will help.

The starting point of buying a mountain bike is to know what kind of riding will you do, so that you can choose the appropriate type. Because bikes are designed for different types of riding (casual, downhill, off-road, and so on), you need to know which type will suit your needs the best. Full suspension, front suspension or no suspension at all?

One of the most important aspects of buying a new mountain bike is choosing the right size. Size is important and it affects how you ride. Here are some general guidelines based on height: People shorter than 5′4″ usually go for 15″ or less, people between 5′4″ and 5′11″ are most comfortable with 17″, people between 5′11″ and 6′2″ prefer 19″, and people taller than 6′2″ choose 21″ or more.

When you’re buying a new bike, you probably want a decent-quality bike that will keep you happy for awhile. Something not to expensive and not to cheap either. You must know that during the year prices can notably fluctuate. The best time to buy is September, because next year’s models come out and prices go down.

There are many different parts of a bike. When looking for quality you have to check out the frame material, quality of the important components such as brakes, derailleurs, shift levers, suspension fork, and so on. As always, you get what you pay for, so don’t be to cheap. A full-suspension bike for less than $200 is not quality.

When you eventually buy a bike, don’t forget on other important pieces of biking gear - helmet, water bottle, tire pump, bike shorts (your behind will be grateful), gloves and glasses.

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Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

In the last decade, mountain biking exploded in popularity. It’s healthy, fun, exciting, and a wonderful way to see the outdoors and keep you fit. It’s enjoyed all over the world by people of all ages, sizes and fitness levels.

Naturally, more demand brings more choices. Today, when there is so many manufacturers, brands, types, shapes and sizes, it can be quite difficult to choose a bike that suits you the best. Hopefully, this short guide will help you out.

The first thing you need to decide on is what type of bike will you buy. Will that be for off-road riding, will you need full suspension, front suspension or no suspension. Bikes are designed for different terrains and purposes. Before buying you should know what kind of riding will you do.

What size bike do I need? Simply put, you need a bike that fits you. Never buy a bike that doesn’t fit you. Common sizes are: 15″ or less (for people shorter than 5′4″), 17″ (for people between 5′4″ and 5′11″), 19″ (for people between 5′11″ and 6′2″), and 21″ and up (for people taller than 6′2″).

When is the best time to buy a mountain bike? If you can, try to avoid buying during the most popular seasons - spring and summer. Prices always fluctuate, depending on the season. The best time to buy is September, because new models arrive and the old stock is discounted. But don’t be to cheap, you do want a decent-quality bike. Remember, mountain bikes are not created equal.

When looking for quality, you have to pay attention to important components like brakes, brake levers, derailleurs, shift levers, suspension, etc. Without quality components you won’t get very far. And just so you know it, a full-suspension bike for $150 is not what you could call a quality product.

Biking gear is also essential. Don’t forget a helmet, water bottle, speedometer, gloves, glasses and a decent pair of padded biking shorts. Trust me, your behind will be thankful.

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Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation