Got a cocktail event coming up and I’m trying not to overthink the outfit. Threw on this navy coofandy shirt with black trousers and white loafers. Does this look polished enough, or is it a little too casual?
Hi everyone,
I'm planning a 7-day cycling trip, and this will be my first time doing a long-distance bike tour.
The plan is to ride a stretch of the Pacific Coast route, starting somewhere around Northern California and working my way down toward the central coast, roughly 350-400 miles total over the week. Mix of coastal flats and some rolling hills, nothing too mountainous. For sleeping arrangements I'm planning to mix it up, camping most nights at state park campgrounds along the route, with a hostel or cheap motel every couple days when I want an actual shower and bed.
I'm honestly a little nervous and would really appreciate some advice. Could you take a look at my preparation and let me know if I'm missing anything important?
First, here is my pre-trip checklist:
Drivetrain check
Brake check
Brake pad inspection
Tire pressure and tread check
Battery check for bike and accessories (helmet, GPS, lights, etc.)
For the trip itself, I've been calculating how much food and water I need to carry, especially for sections where I won't have many chances to resupply.
For repair gear, I'm bringing spare tubes, a puncture repair kit, and a Hoto portable pump.
One thing I'm still unsure about is packing. I don't think I can fit everything into my jersey pockets or bibs. Do you have any good tips for organizing gear?
I already have a small saddle bag for my repair equipment, but I'm wondering if I should get a frame bag. I'm not sure what size would be practical.
For spare parts, is carrying just a spare tube and repair kit enough, or are there other things you would recommend bringing?
Would really appreciate any advice from people who have done longer cycling trips before.
Thanks!
This isn't purely a pool question, but since my pool build is almost done I'm on the hunt for umbrellas to get some shade going. New construction home, so the trees are still years away from doing anything useful. From what I've seen online, the market is pretty split. Either you're looking at budget options in the low hundreds, or you jump straight to the $3-5k range for the premium stuff. What I really want is something with a sleeve that goes into the concrete itself, since that seems way more stable than a freestanding base, and it also means I don't end up with some clunky base sitting there ruining the look. Anyone have real experience with this setup, cantilever or otherwise? Would love to hear what's actually worked for you.
Update:
I will go with the pool umbrella from Purple Leaf. What sold me is they sell bases that are put into concrete and fit all of their umbrellas, exactly what I was looking for. Also the color has this really rich, premium look to it, matched what I wanted aesthetically perfectly.