 |
|
|
|
Rides and Local Shops Part 2by Bill RogersNovember 1998Before we finish our look at the bike shops in the area, I would like to tell you about a couple of rides I went on recently. The well known single-track trail systems of Tsali and Pisgah, in Western North Carolina, and Oak Mountain State Park in Birmingham, AL. TSALI. The terrain itself accounts for much of what makes this a fantastic place for mountain biking. Hard packed dirt makes the trails fast and smooth, yet they are just soft enough to keep a nice hold on your tires. Most turns can be made aggressively, without worrying about skids and sliding tires. While there are many exciting downhills and labor intensive uphills, the overall elevation at Tsali climbs and falls within a range of about 300 feet. This means there are no absolutely painful climbs and no death defying downhills. Riders of all levels can set their speed to create their own challenge. My previous trips to Tsali were always on Wednesday, and if you have been there, you know that would mean riding on the left and right loops. If you are not familiar with the area, Tsali is a shared use area -- alternating between mountain bikes and horses. This year, Danny Nanny and I left early one Thursday morning for our trip. I welcomed the opportunity to ride the Mouse Creek Branch and the Thompson Loop. Actually the Thompson Loop was so much fun, we rode it twice. The last 2 ½ or 3 miles are twisting, downhill single-track. A total blast! PISGAH. The trails, located near Brevard in the Pisgah National Forest, extend along the Blue Ridge Parkway and down into the valleys. Along the Parkway are numerous scenic overlooks. However, these scenic overlooks do not come easy. To get to the higher elevations, climbing is crucial. Trails with names such as Clawhammer might draw you in, or turn you around. The rides in and out of the valleys are generally quite steep, suitable to the more advanced rider. The terrain of the Pisgah trail system is another significant characteristic that determines the whole mountain biking experience. Loose and rocky, this single-track requires more attention in determining the quickest, funnest, and safest line to take. In order to find the perfect line, the rider must be quick to react to obstacles continuously popping up. Overall, riding at Pisgah is more advanced. One needs to be physically fit and deft at bike handling skills in order to fully appreciate the dynamic rides at Pisgah. Otherwise, it may lead to more frustration than fun. If you haven’t experienced these trails, I recommend you find the time. Even though Tsali is better for the less experienced rider, it is still challenging for even the most advanced rider. Now I want to tell you about my favorite place to ride. Danny Nanny, Tony Thompson, and I left at 7:30 a.m. on a Saturday for a trip to Birmingham, AL. OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK. Thirty minutes south of Birmingham's City Center, on Interstate 65, Oak Mtn. is one of the southernmost wrinkles in the Appalachian chain. This is a ‘great to ride’ -- a flat tire couldn’t even spoil the fun. Fast, twisting single-track with just enough climbing to keep things interesting. A couple of the trail names should give you some idea of the kind of place this is – "Bloodrock" and "Mr. Toads Wild Ride". If you’ve never been to Oak Mountain, you owe it to yourself to go. It is well worth the trip. *********************************************Last month I started an overview of the area shops. In the future, I’d like to review some of the new technology and products. SPINDOGS CYCLES, located in Cleveland, TN, has been in business for just over a year now. John, Connie, and Blake Spencer have already developed a large and loyal following. Their main lines are Fisher, Ellsworth, and recently added, Cannondale. DALTON BICYCLE WORKS, located in Dalton, GA has been open approximately three years. I’ve know owner Mike Skiles, for 15 + years, and if there is a better bike mechanic, I’ve not met him. The well-equipped shop carries Specialized, Schwinn, and Trek. Mike and his staff are very supportive in trail maintenance. They give back to the sport by putting work into their favorite trails. SUCK CREEK CYCLES, is a new shop coming to town the day after Thanksgiving. Joe Thomas is the head honcho with behind the scene expertise from Mike Skiles and Chris Gilligan. They will be located across from the Aquarium in downtown Chattanooga, occupying the oldest commercial building in town, formerly a flower mill. Their lines include Schwinn 4-Banger, Yeti, K-2, and Marien. Family and recreational cycling will be their focus. They will also be unique in their specialization for the female cyclist. Next month we’ll look at new technology. |
|
|
