Ride in the villages 2

Bike Ride Through the Villages 2

April 17th 2011

Buddy takes a Dew break

    Buddy and I took a nice long bike ride through the villages last Sunday. We rode almost 33 miles starting South and then working our way North to 466 then East and back down to where we started. We mainly used the golf car trails which were nicely landscaped and provided a safe place to ride.

There isn't much elevation to contend with so the ride was more recreation than workout despite the length. We saw quite a few people enjoying the trails not to mention a couple of gentlemen both older  and in better shape than us. They obviously rode the trails regularly since their calves were the size of my head. They blew by us on their streetbikes which made our mountain bikes seem clunky and slow.We also passed a nice couple where the woman was in a wheelchair and the man was running pushing her along. They were out enjoying the beautiful weather together and were the definition of the commitment that comes with "in sickness and in health". We both found it very inspiring. We rode through both squares and although I was tempted to stop for a Starbucks we kept riding. Maybe starbucks and Barnes and Noble will be a scheduled pit stop on some other themed ride where we bring other friends.  If you are thinking of riding through the villages,I highly reccomend it. It is a pleasent experience with plenty to see.



Santos Bike Trail Riding the Wagon Trail from the Landbridge Trailhead

The Land Bridge Trail

March 27th 2011

    One of the benefits to living in Ocala, Florida is that we have some really great places to ride our bikes year round. All of which are close and accessible. I have choices to ride on dirt trails or paved trails whether it is for distance, technical challenge or just plain easy recreation. There is a maintained trail for any mood or desire I may have at any moment of any day.

    I went riding with my good friend Mike. We decided to hit what's known as the "Wagon Trail" out here in the Santos Bike trail system. The wagon trail is named for the reason it was designed, to give horse drawn wagons or sullied carts a place to be driven so that their owners may use and enjoy the trails just like everyone else.

The terrain of the wagon trail changes as it takes you through the oak hammocks and pine woods. There are man made structures to navigate as well such as this bridge we ride under not long after crossing the land bridge itself.

We rode just under 20 miles and the ride was nice. We felt as though we got some decent exercise in while having a lot of fun. There is something about just being outside with your friends doing something you enjoy together. Personally, I find that bike riding is more enjoyable in the company of others. If you are thinking about riding, I highly suggest starting up with someone whose company you enjoy.

The next time we ride this trail, Mike and I have decided to hit one of the blue mountain bike paths that connect to the main wagon trail. Apparently there are some pretty technical blue trails just beyond the 49th street bridge that sound like a  lot of fun to ride and share with you! Until next time, take care, share some thoughts, and maybe I'll see YOU on the trail!