There is nothing quite like the view you can enjoy from the seat of your recumbent bike while leisurely riding along

In many cities today,abandoned railroads are being converted into Linear Parks. The Withlacoochee Trail in Florida, and the Monon Trail in Indiana, would be two good examples. There are many, many more across the country as this movement grows to reclaim these unused areas for a good cause.

Almost every month of the year there are bike events going on. There are Century Rides of 100 miles, Metric Century rides of 62 miles, and always shorter rides of 30 or 15 miles for those who are just starting to enter these events. It’s fun, encouraging, why it’s just plain fun to finish a ride like that with others who enjoy it as much as you do.

There are two-day events where you can ride double Century’s, double Metrics, or whatever is your choice. The idea is to do it at your pace, all in the name of fun and exercise. These events are always supported with stops every 15 to 20 miles at strategic points along the ride route.

Sports drinks, bananas, cookies, PBJ sandwiches, powerbars, muffins and foods that help conserve energy are included as part of the nominal price paid to take part in the event.

T-shirts and discounts are offered for those who register early. Although not always guaranteed, the T-shirts are usually given to all who enter. These are usually the “badge of honor” for completing the ride. Some are more elaborate than others. You see more and more cyclist on a recumbent bike riding in these events.

There are bike clubs that usually offer weekend rides for the various levels of ability. So if you are just starting there are those groups that you can fit right in with. Most of us remember when we started how others were tolerant while we huffed and puffed trying to keep up.

The interest in furthering the sport for the good of all is an attitude shared by most. Clubs will sponsor at least one moneymaking event each year, so it gives a chance for all to be involved socially, meet others and enjoy the sprit of all who love bikes and recumbents in particular.

There are some milestones for riders. Riding a Century is a goal for many. Riding 100 miles a week is the aim of others. Some are thankful to ride 5 miles a day. Great events like the Strawberry Century in Plant City, Florida, where you can eat your fill of strawberries all along the ride. How about the three-day event in Mt. Dora, Florida, that draws well over one thousand riders from many parts of the U.S. for the multi-day event.

There's the Recumbent Rally in Colorado. Just about any state you can name has a bike event going on, even in a remote place like Battle Mountain, Nevada, that prides itself on being named "Armpit of America! That just happens to be the site of the World Human Powered Speed Challenge, where recumbent bikes hidden inside sleek, aerodynamic, composite shells reach speeds of over 80 mph!

What are you waiting for? There are so many great Trails just waiting for you with huge, Granddaddy Oaks spreading their branches over the roadbed providing ample shade on a hot summers day. They're waiting for you.

Here's some more info for your next adventure on tours and trails.

Take A Ride on the Monon Trail