Know the Law

I came across a great blog, Recreation Law, which discusses interesting law topics and cases related to outdoor recreation law. James Moss, the author, notes that he isn't trying to educate his audience but does list sources to point you in the right direction if you are curious about your rights and responsibilities.

It's a good read and Mr. Moss does review some pretty interesting cases and issues.

Some of the more interesting posts include So I do not plan to die, but I am stupid so the law says I have to spend $500 so you can find my body..., I could not make my son wear a helmet so I’m going to make you wear one and Letter to the Editor: Wilderness and Environmental Medicine.

Overall, I thoroughly support what James Moss is doing... even though he is not trying to educate the public, I think his blog is very informative. I've learned a lot about the current issues in recreation law and even more importantly, I've learned that there is a lot I don't know. Overall, I always support individuals understanding the law, their rights and their responsibilities so Recreation Law will certainly be added to my weekly reading list.

Calling all Mountain Bikers

Hey Mountain Bikers,

I'd like to direct you to a great blog that has in turn directed me to a lot of good resources... NYC Mountain Bike Blog. I love reading about their weekend rides and they always provide great ideas for future outings... plus kudos to them, they ride in the snow!

Some of the resources I have discovered through this blog are as follows:

The New York City Mountain Bikers Meetup Group - This is a group "for anyone that shares a passion for mountain biking and trail riding." They welcome all levels and offer a great deal of diversity in their rides and locations.

New York City Mountain Bike Association - Founded in 2005 their mission is to build and maintain trails in the five boroughs of New York City, advocate for the sport, and foster a community of mountain bikers in the City. The website has information on trails and other resources.

I encourage you to follow the NYC Mountain Bike Blog and check out the two websites.

Happy Riding! 

Picking a Bike Saddle

I have not had a comfortable ride on a bike since I was 10 years old and my bike was pink with a banana seat and streamers. Yes I adored that bike, she was my baby. Since then I have suffered from the very common numb butt, black and blue marks in places that are truly unmentionable and lots of post ride soreness. To try and remedy the situation I bought a gel bike seat cover which didn't help one little bit ($40 down the drain there). I wore the padded spandex shorts, those just gave me a wedgie (more money thrown away). I figured I was doomed!

So I am sure you can imagine my sheer delight when I came across this article from one of my favorite blogs on how to pick a bike saddle.

If you too have been suffering from... well... how can I put this delicately?... Discomfort... then you will want to check it out!

P.S. When I was checking out the New York State Outdoors Blog I noticed that the NYNJ Trail Conference is looking for people to help clear storm damaged trails. Additionally, if you are out on the trails and  see any problems please remember to report the issue to the NYNJ Trail Conference here or to the State Parks Department. By the way, in general this is always a good practice. We want to keep our trails safe for others and free of debris. Please also always remember to pack out what you packed in and pick up anything someone else may have forgotten!