19th June - John Paul favours less traffic on his cycles

John Paul writes..

 

Image illustrating an evening sky at the Marina in Cork

Yesterday I decided to go for a leisurely Sunday cycle down around the Marina/Atlantic Pond area. I wanted to do something similar to Tuesday’s cycle by Blackrock Castle, which is very close to the Marina.

 

To mix it up a bit, I decided to leave from Rochestown heading towards the Douglas and up the Well Road. There was little traffic but the weather was dry (when leaving) and warm. Most of my cycling lacked any real hills throughout the week so I had two hills to go up on my cycle to the Marina, up the Well Road and the road next to Cork Constitution Rugby Club. After a tiring cycle up the two hills, there were two hills to cycle down in close succession, Copper Hill and the other next to CAB motors approaching Pairc Uí Chaoimh, which required much less exertion as I approached the Marina.

The Atlantic Pond is
always a hive of activity in nice weather

Just as I approached the Marina, the rain arrived. Thankfully, I was prepared and took my rain jacket out of my bag and managed to avoid getting a soaking. I cycled along by the stadium redevelopment and down around the Atlantic Pond, before joining back onto the Marina towards Blackrock where the Sunday Market is.

I cycled towards Blackrock Castle and on to the walk way connecting to the Old Railway Line, where I cycled on Tuesday. I continued home on the same route as Tuesday’s cycle.

Thankfully I enjoyed this cycle more compared to my cycle around Rochestown and Blackrock on Tuesday due to less traffic and time constraints, which allowed me to cycle at a more relaxed pace and to take in experience!

Forget 'Dads Silly Triangle' to try and calculate Speed Distance and Time - Give this Calculator  a go to suss out your Average  Cycle Speed!

Atlantic Pond MAP

Marina Walk MAP

19th June - Final Blog from a Smiley Shauna

Operation Transportation Final Day and Overall Experience 

Shauna writes..
Today I didn't get to go on out the bike for as long as I had hoped because the weather was really against me. It was very wet and windy. If I had owned wet gear I wouldn't have had any problems! So I only got to go out for a short time, just a quick cycle.


If I was to commit to taking up cycling in my everyday life I would have to purchase some wet gear and other essentials to make my life much easier and I noticed the Aldi were stocking some bike accessories this week to coincide with national bike week which is ideal for people on a budget!

Keep an eye on specials: www.aldi.ie

 

 

Final word from Shauna: At the start of bike week I was very apprehensive about the whole idea but as the week progressed I began to really enjoy it and started taking longer cycles everyday. Looking back I'm delighted I took part in bike week as it reminded me how much fun cycling can be, also it made me appreciate how much faster cycling can be as opposed to driving especially in the City. Overall I think this week has been a success for me personally as I got to see new places and navigate my way on some busy roads without having a major panic.

A very happy Shauna having taken part in Bike Week 2016!
 

18th/19th June - Thomas enjoyed Sundays event, despite the rain!

Thomas writes..

Saturday 18th

I went out in mid-morning and rode from my house in Ballintemple into the City Centre. I was cycling for about an hour and really enjoyed it! The weather was ideal for cycling - not too hot and not too cold!

Weather Myths in Ireland - Myths. Turns out some of the most popular cycling cities have more rainfall than Ireland!!

Sunday 19th

The Passage West to Blackrock Castle Family Fun Cycle was on today which I took part in. I rode to Passage initially and then returned to Cork with a large group of cyclists.


It was raining but that didn't take away from the enjoyment of the event! It was great to see some of the enthusiasm of some of the younger cyclists despite the weather. A great day was had by all!




The Passage West to Blackrock Castle or Cork Bay Railway walk has proven very popular among our Operation Transportation cyclists - if you would be interested in giving it a go yourself, check it out HERE!

June 16th/17th - Shauna Explores Rebel Routes

Shauna writes.. 

As I didn't get a chance to get out on the bike yesterday myself and fellow blogger Michael decided to go from Blackrock to Passage West along the old railway line. This was the longest cycle I've done all week, it took just over and hour and we traveled 17.22km in total. Even though it was a long cycle it was very enjoyable, it is a paved track so it is very easy to cycle and it is flat all the way except for the footbridge over her South Link Road where there is a slight climb but nothing too difficult and there are plenty of seats along the route if you do get tired and 
need a break or just want to take in the view. 



This is a very popular route with cyclists, runners, pet owners and families so it can be quite busy especially in the evenings. Also along the route there are outdoor exercise stations which is great way to incorporate different kinds of exercise into your cycle. 

This was my first time really exploring areas outside of the Cork City, having the bike and access to the old railway line made it so much easier to explore and see new areas. There are also informational signs and plaques along the route for anyone that would like to know more about the history of the railway line.


It is a lovely route and I would highly recommend it! 

Heres all you need to know of the route: Route Information 

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17/18th June - Patrick sees the times are changing!

Patrick writes... 


After a long morning clearing-up lawns and hedges I took advantage of a nice afternoon to ease the bones and head out for a 30 minute cycle to meet a friend for a relaxing coffee in the Carrigaline Court Hotel. Great not having to worry about parking or so I thought. Came across four bike stands but all occupied! Wow.. maybe that's a good thing in many ways - the times they are a changing!


Wondering why the provision of bike parking was not made a condition of planning when such hotels were being built or extended? Or maybe it was conditioned but they were never provided?! Might have to go somewhere else next time if no handy parking available. Who said 'If you build it they will come'.


Still can't beat the old standby of parking against a public light pole on the street. 

Check out these tips to LOCK YOUR BIKE SECURELY  to be sure its still there when you return!! 

Will be lying low tomorrow - training for another major milestone on Sunday, i.e. the Family Fun Cycle from Passage to Blackrock Castle  with my fellow Operation Transportation participant Thomas.

Over and out for now

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16th June - Patrick learns something new every day!

Patrick writes...

And so it came to Pass - all set this afternoon to cycle into Douglas only to be greeted by a flat tyre!! Whilst it is over two years since I had a puncture - its no problem..we have the technology!
Repair kit in hand but where's the pump? Thought I saw it somewhere recently but where was that?

Did somebody borrow it? Not lately because I can't remember giving it out on loan. I have a vague reflection of some neighbour borrowing it to pump a football but not quite sure if it ever came back.

 

Okay so I have to bite the bullet...buy a new one and as my mum would say "Neither a lender nor a borrower be" going forward. Maybe that's too extreme?

I called into Capwell Cycles shop near Chriost Rí School. Very friendly folk there who explained the difference between Presta valves and Schrader valves.  Took an educated guess on which type I had. Fortunately I got it right. 

Presta vs Schrader: Educate yourself HERE

Also got a lesson on the differences between Frame-fit Pumps, Mini Pumps, CO2 Inflators and Floor Pumps. You would nearly need an Engineering degree to understand and take in all I was told about the pros and cons of each type! Finally after much bargaining I opted for the floor pump. It made it all look so easy to inflate the tyre.

Buyers guide to Bike Pumps: GUIDE
Now to fix the puncture. What was it again he was saying about using tyre levers? 

 

See how Patrick gets on with his tyres here and on:

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16th June - Michael makes the morning commute to work!

Operation Transportation Day 6

Michael writes...

Following my two long adventures on day 4 & 5, I decided to take it easy and only cycle to and from work as I felt I didn't have the energy to go any further and I didn't want to risk any injury due to fatigue.

 

Due to last nights burst of heavy rain there was still some surface water on the road this morning. This along with the busy morning traffic did not make my commute to work as easy as I would have liked. However, by just taking my time and not taking any unnecessary risks, I negotiated the route to work through the city centre with relative ease.

Bike and Mike with the feet up!!

 

RSA tips for CYCLE SAFETY

 

By the time it came to my commute home the surface water had subsided. By making the most of the cycle lanes I got home in what felt like no time and put my feet up to rest ahead of a few more days of cycling adventures.  

                   

                         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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15th June - Shauna appreciating her two wheels!

Operation Transformation Day 5:

Shauna writes...

Today I had more time for a cycle so I decided to the the Blackrock Loop...I started off from Monaghan Rd once again, here I met fellow blogger Michael so we decided that we would do the Blackrock Loop. This is such a lovely area to cycle in, however the weather wasn't ideal and it got progressively worse as the evening went on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of the most enjoyable aspects of taking part in Operation Transportation is the opportunity to discover new things and places that you may never get to see if you were confined to a car while stuck in traffic. It gives you a chance to slow down and appreciate your surroundings.

 

 

 

Also, on one part of the cycle we passed over a footbridge, the traffic below was at a stand still and quite congested. Even though the weather wasn't great I was still glad to be out on the bike and not stuck in traffic! 

 

We all know that cycling is good for our physically fitness and handy for dodging traffic but have a look at all the other health benefits of cycling! Win - Win!!









Keep an eye on Facebook and Twitter for Shauna's updates!

15th June - Áine's Best Day yet!

Day 5: Lunchtime Cycle to Fitzgeralds Park! 

I had an early cycle today – I headed along to the lunchtime cycle in Fitzgerald’s Park.




 If you look close enough at Darrens 'Selfie' on the left you can see me in the back wearing my high vis vest!









I was a bit apprehensive as I’ve never cycled in the city. Today was going to decide whether I’m going to be able to keep this going after Operation Transportation. I admit I was a bit nervous, but set out with my colleague Anita. Anita has been cycling for years, so I was very glad to have her today. She gave me a few tips on junctions and the dreaded right turn.

Tips for the dreaded right turn! TIPS

 

The route out was fine. It was 11.45 so traffic was quiet, the sun was shining and drivers gave us plenty of room. We took the quieter route – Anglesea, Copley, by St. Finbarres and onto Washington St. This gave me a chance to get comfortable with the passing cars. I didn’t think drivers would be so polite and cautious.

Áine's route out to Fitzgeralds Park.

 

We had a great time at Fitzgerald’s Park – would definitely recommend it for next year. I got a little lesson in how to properly work the gears to ensure that my bike stays in the best condition  - it pays to mingle with other cyclists!

 

Left see Cork Academy of Music set up in the bandstand in the park!

Right see my bike parked up for lunch!

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the trip back I was thrown in the deep end. Anita decided to let me go in front, not listening to any of my excuses (I tried a good few). The cycle lane on Washington street was great, more of these throughout the city would definitely encourage me to cycle more. South Mall was another story! Definitely the scariest part of the week. There were cars stopped everywhere. Without a cycle lane it meant weaving out into another lane to get around those double parked – really needs to be adjusted to facilitate cyclists!

Áine's route back home from Fitzgeralds Park

 

Final Word: 'All in all, best day yet! Think it has me hooked!!'

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15th June - Gears making all the difference for Thomas on Day 5

Thomas Operation Transportation Diary Day 5:

Thomas writes...

Today I cycled from Ballintemple to Fitzgerald Park which took about 25 minutes. There was some live music and lunch served here as one of the events for Cork Bike Week 2016.

There are so many events still taking place to mark Cork Bike Week, follow this link so find out more! Cork Bike Week Events 2016

Here I met some nice people and enjoyed the chat and lively atmosphere!
On my way to Fitzgerald's park called into a bike shop in Anglesea Street and the guy updated me on the use of the gears (I have been using one set of gears since Saturday and whilst the setting was good for going up hills it was not great for coming down hills etc) This new information made the ride even more enjoyable today!

 
Using gears can make you cycle more efficiently and like Thomas - can make the cycle more enjoyable! See this guide illustrating the basics of how to use your gears correctly: Guide for Gears
 
Final Word from Thomas: I must say I had no probes with motorists and the only issue I had was the condition of roads in places.

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Introducing Patrick - Read his Operation Transportation Progress so far...

Patrick joins the team:

Hi folks,
Apologies for the late updating of my progress on cycling this week but here goes!

Day 0 Friday 10th June:
Bike cleaned up and oiled today for it's big test tomorrow.
 
Day 1 Saturday 11th June:
I spent the day hillwalking on the mountains back in west Kerry. It's now 11.30 pm and I've just remembered I signed up to undertake the challenge which started today. Okay I am tired but can't give up on day one! Out comes the bike. 5 minutes down and 5 minutes back from the village will cover the day's challenge.  Forgot that downhill takes a little longer. So it becomes a 15 minute cycle but finished before 12 midnight so pressure off......must take the commitment more seriously tomorrow.

Day 2 Sunday 12th June:
Today's the day I'm setting new standards!! I'm Heading down to Crosshaven and back. About 2 hours should cover the journey. Problem is I've no one to mind the puggley dog Mr. Spock.  So he'll have to get a crosser to Crosshaven!! Just delira with himself. Took to looking down his nose on other muts walking the old railway path.The dog's a bit of a snob. Must get a basket to make it easier to carry him. The route has a great cycling path if only the competitive cyclists would show a little bit more care especially with walkers sharing the path.    They could do with getting hold of and ringing a bell to warn of their FAST approach.

 Day 3 Monday 13th June:
I am running close to the end of the day again today. No time to head out on the bike earlier but at 9pm headed out for about 30 minutes of a cycle.  Never realised the road surface was in such a bad condition. You dont really feel the bumps as much when your travelling in a car. Might not be a bad idea for the local engineer to head out on a bike to discover for himself that the issues are far greater than a few potholes!

Have a look at this YouTube clip on How to deal with bad road surfaces.

Day 4 Tuesday 14th June:
Today was a good day on the cycling front! I got out on the bike straight after breakfast. Headed to village for DE EXAMINER and a few bits 'n pieces in the Super.  Could definitely do with a basket now!! Feeling a little saddle sore at the end of the cycle. Getting muscles in places I didn't realise I had places. Amazed how courteous car drivers are.......bar none!!

Highlighted are the muscles used while cycling

Day 5 Wednesday 15th June:
First major milestone. Cycled with my mate Tom (another guy undertaking the cycle challenge) to Fitzgerald's Park for the Lunch by the Lee. Need a groin transplant after the city roads, in particular bad surface along the Douglas Road!! Really enjoyed the FREE lunch and especially concert given by the Cork Academy of Music - a talented group of guys. I met some fellow cyclists I hadn't met in a while. Special thanks to all that organised the event!
Fair pull back home after the event......rained a little but after the 3 hours on the bike I'm feeling sore but invigorated!! Headed home from Fitzgerald Park via Monahan Road. The riverside park is completely overgrown and an eyesore.  Which is a pity. For those visiting concerts in the Marquee it's not showing the City off in a good light.  Then again it must be an oasis for wildlife so close to the city.
Finished off the day with a swim for my very tired limbs!
Let's see what tomorrow brings.
   

 Great journeys so far from Patrick! Keep a look out for his updates here and on:

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13th June 2016 - Donnacha has some Monday Motivation

BUSY MONDAY EVENING ON THE ROADS

Donnacha writes....

I had a busy day at work so I got home a little later than planned today. Seeing as I even missed the Ireland game it was tempting to pull the 'its too late and im too tired' card but I did summon up the motivation to hit the road again. I stuck with the same route as it was getting late.

'We all know that everyone has hard days at work and the tiredness can set in preventing us to be active at the end of a long day. Click on these motivational tips to help get yourself moving whether its cycling, running or going for a brisk walk. Motivational Tips'


I met a few more cars this evening than the evening before and in general most are very patient and considerate but one in particular was definitely too close for comfort!! It doesn't stress me too much - I tend to hold my position on the road well, but with the state of some of the roads and pothole dodging I can see why it would put some people off. Here is a flavour of a stretch of my route that has had the potholes FIXED!! But you find now those patch jobs can be pretty bumpy on the saddle too!!

'If you have experienced the same problem as Donnacha has with a car travelling a bit too close for comfort, have a read of this Irish Cycling Campaign "Stayin' Alive at 1.5" that is focused on having a defined space of 1.5 metres between cyclists and motorists sharing the road written into Irish Law "STAYIN' ALIVE AT 1.5"'

I got an early Fathers day gift of an action/activity video camera so I managed to record most of the journey which I will edit and send on as soon as I can so hopefully I can add it to tomorrows diary! I had issues with it staying upright on the handlebars so it needed to come off a few times to readjust it again.

All in all - even though a little slower with fatigue settling in on the uphill route home, I am happy with my evenings efforts. Beats sitting on the couch!! Hopefully for tomorrows journey the camera issues will be resolved and I can concentrate on the cycling!

 

 

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13th June 2016 - Euro 2016 Fever

MICHAEL CYCLES THE CITY TO SOAK UP SOME OF THE ATMOSPHERE:

Michael writes..

Euro 2016 fever has well & truly hit Ireland with when national team played their first game of the tournament against Sweden today. I'm sure most of us at this point have seen some of the photos & videos of Irish fans enjoying themselves in France.

If you havent seen any of the videos, check out this local French resident getting the irish crowds going HERE

Following the conclusion of today's draw with Sweden I decided to cycle around Cork City to see if people here were enjoying themselves as much as our fellow country people in France.

Despite Ireland failing to get the win it was nice to see all the people out and about wearing green and in great spirits! It made the cycle an enjoyable experience seeing the city so busy at that time on a Monday evening.

Brilliant image taken from RedFm Facebook page showing the crowds at The Courtyard on Sober Lane

 

However, with the volume of people in the city it created a problem for me. As people may have had a few too many drinks their balance wasn't the best and with the cycling paths right next to the footpaths it required me to be more alert of my surroundings in case anyone accidentally stumbled out of a pub in front of me.

 

 

Cork has newly installed contraflow lanes to make the city access easier for cyclists. Many lanes are adjacent to the cities most popular pubs as Michael may have passed on his cycle! For your own interest check out where they are HERE .

 

 

Thankfully my cycle passed without incident and I was able to soak in the atmosphere when passing crowds of Irish fans.

 

 

Hopefully just like Ireland in the Euros, my cycling experiences will continue on an upward curve and bring great enjoyment.

 

 

 



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