|
Post by brianbutler on Dec 20, 2020 14:37:16 GMT
Here's a 10 year old photo of me and my Cannondale at the end of the weeklong GAP/C&O trip with the Scout Troop: www.flickr.com/photos/wheelson2011/38589845051/in/dateposted-public/Everything for the week was packed in those Nashbar "saddlebag" panniers, bivy tent on top, and the mini-panniers on the front. Four water bottles, two on the handlebars, two on the frame. I tried to make everything so I could be self-sufficient as possible. I did replenish my water supply as needed and ate pizza one day while my clothes dried out in the laundromat. The only thing I seriously miscalculated on was an extra pair of shoes and a bit more than a sleeping bag liner for the early May coolness. The aero bars were to rest the shoulders and back, health issues even then. I guess my point in posting this on the COVID thread is the probability that if doing similar excursions in the future, self-sufficiency with as little dependence on restaurants and external facilities as possible may well be the rule of the day. I think it's doable without a huge amount of bother or expense. Again, I'm looking back at Franco's posted video. Best, John "wheelson" John, I agree it is not always possible to travel light, especially on a trail where intersections with civilization are fewer and farther between. I think my attention span is diminishing and I need more frequent stimulation from artifacts of civilization than I used to. When my wi and I were 21, which hardly seems possible, we hiked and camped a lot and wanted to (but didn't) hike the Appalachian Trail. Now when we are camping and hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and meet up with AT thru-hikers, I can hardly imagine four to six months of the same activity day after day. On the other hand, many of our friends can't imagine sleeping in a tent for any reason.
I love that Mile 0 photo. If you are considering riding those trails again, keep me in mind. It is on my list. I have a grand scheme that I will probably never do - ride from here to Buffalo NY on various roads and trails including the Erie Canal Trail, then south through eastern Ohio (my roots area) and the West Virginia panhandle over to Pittsburgh, then to Washington on the GAP and C&O, then home on the red-eye Amtrak, the only train of the day from Washington to Boston where you can take a bike. I think it would be about 800 miles of riding over several weeks, probably not a sellable idea if you know what I mean.
Brian
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Dec 20, 2020 16:53:44 GMT
That looks a good idea John and I keep meaning to try the coke can method stove, I’m all for things done diy and on a budget! I bought a small flask last week and an ex Polish Army bread bag that is like a Carradice bag at the fraction of the cost. Looking forward to getting out for a relaxed ride over Christmas and having a brew Great tip Fran - just found these on ebay at £5.99. I love a 'creative budget workaround' for stuff ps Fran- have you ever been up to Anchor Supplies (army n navy gear) at Ripley? Good lot of stock and pretty cheap. They have old canvases outside that you can just take for free.
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Dec 20, 2020 17:05:29 GMT
Now THAT would qualify as an epic tour. I like your plan. Depending on the time of year and your capabilities, I suppose it's doable. I'd like to tackle the GAP and C&O complete again sometime instead of piecemeal. It can be as basic or deluxe as you want to make it, of course that was pre-COVID. There are any combination of B&B's, hotel/motels, commercial campsites, and on the C&O there's the hiker/biker spots, complete with a water pump (tested weekly?) and a porta-pot. At the juncture of the GAP and C&O in Cumberland, MD, there's a YMCA that has a large camping/firepit/pavilion area and use of the Y's facilities (pool, showers,...) for $10 - pre-COVID of course. I guess for the near future, self-supported will be the mode to consider. Another ideal mode would be a non-riding spouse or friend and a motorhome or camper. That was the Scouts mode of operation. If that Washington to Boston offers roll-on service for bikes that would be ideal.
On another note, have any of you on the other side of the pond ever tackled the epic John O'Groats to Lands End? That's more than two and a half times the distance of the GAP/C&O. "But I can dream, can't I?"
Best, John "wheelson"
|
|
|
Post by franco on Dec 20, 2020 19:29:58 GMT
That looks a good idea John and I keep meaning to try the coke can method stove, I’m all for things done diy and on a budget! I bought a small flask last week and an ex Polish Army bread bag that is like a Carradice bag at the fraction of the cost. Looking forward to getting out for a relaxed ride over Christmas and having a brew Great tip Fran - just found these on ebay at £5.99. I love a 'creative budget workaround' for stuff ps Fran- have you ever been up to Anchor Supplies (army n navy gear) at Ripley? Good lot of stock and pretty cheap. They have old canvases outside that you can just take for free. I have Jem, used to be better than it is now but still a cool place to pick bargains up. Originally was going to wait for the end of lockdown but then saw the army bread bags on eBay. Only downside is the metal ends on the straps don’t fit through the saddle bag slots on Brooks saddles. Could cut them off though I suppose. Found a page a while back with a lot of ex army workaround stuff for cycling, I’ll see if I can find it.
|
|
|
Post by franco on Dec 20, 2020 23:34:17 GMT
Made an improvised version of the alcohol stove based on the penny version.
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Dec 20, 2020 23:42:20 GMT
Made an improvised version of the alcohol stove based on the penny version. Good job. This looks like the one I used on my trip. It worked very well. It’s a lot of fun to make “something from nothing” that you can actually use. Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by oldroadietehachapi on Dec 21, 2020 18:49:55 GMT
How goes the new strain in the UK? I understand it is like this, which explains why the restaurants are closed; I suppose a little humor is good. California is the new hot spot for us. It seems that many people are ignoring the travel guidelines; no matter that it endangers the rest of us. Our ICUs are at capacity and it is a bad time to catch the nasty stuff. I stay at home except for essential travel, cycling and walks on our nature trails. You never get close to another person while doing these things.
Cheers Jim
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Dec 21, 2020 19:23:15 GMT
How goes the new strain in the UK? I understand it is like this, which explains why the restaurants are closed; I suppose a little humor is good. California is the new hot spot for us. It seems that many people are ignoring the travel guidelines; no matter that it endangers the rest of us. Our ICUs are at capacity and it is a bad time to catch the nasty stuff. I stay at home except for essential travel, cycling and walks on our nature trails. You never get close to another person while doing these things.
Cheers Jim
Hi Jim - Yes, we are leading the world in this...71% more transmissible than the old one. Most of the world, wisely, have shut their borders to us - France , despite being in the EU, have total control over their borders and have said 'non mercy' to us. It really is almost impossible to comment in this thread for us UK members without being somewhat political. So, I will cut short there and hope I've not managed to start any kind of punch up Can you get food shopping delivered there Jim?
|
|
|
Post by franco on Dec 21, 2020 20:24:54 GMT
It’s crazy to think a pandemic can be ‘political’ or provoke political argument isn’t it Jem, but that’s where it’s at and I get what you mean. Mind you, owning a dog can raise a political argument in this country at the moment, I won’t go on about that one but that’s how absurd everything is at the moment.
According to the WHO the U.K. government knew about this early November and didn’t lockdown until December, not to mention the false Christmas promises.
I expect the whole country will be locked by mid January, or tier four at minimum.
|
|
|
Post by oldroadietehachapi on Dec 21, 2020 21:10:43 GMT
I plan to take the vaccine as soon as it is available (late March or early April) to my (government mandated) tier group. Many people here say they will not take the vaccine. They do not trust, or believe those in power (of all political persuasions) so they will wait and see.
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Dec 21, 2020 22:37:04 GMT
I received some good news regarding the pandemic - my jury service scheduled for March has been cancelled. Brian
|
|
ks1u
Viscount
Posts: 76
|
Post by ks1u on Dec 22, 2020 5:15:44 GMT
12 happy men.
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Dec 22, 2020 15:23:55 GMT
I plan to take the vaccine as soon as it is available (late March or early April) to my (government mandated) tier group. Many people here say they will not take the vaccine. They do not trust, or believe those in power (of all political persuasions) so they will wait and see. My daughter, a physician assistant, got the vaccine a couple of days ago with no apparent side effects. Mrs.W is a RN and will be getting it soon. My daughter-in-law is a pharmacist and will not only be getting but giving it. I'm 72 with some of those risk factors, like Jim I'll probably be taking it in March or . . . There are of course some concerns as with any vaccine but not much in the way of alternatives. I anticipate a required proof of immunization for a future return to normal. I'm referring to the "old normal", not the despised "new normal".
Again, there are concerns but a double dose of the legendary scads of shots courtesy of my lost records and the U.S. Army in the 1970's didn't kill me. Neither has the use of prednisone and hydroxychloroquine to keep my autoimmune disorder under control. I've not had any negative reactions to flu or pneumonia shots in the past so I guess I'm good to go.
So stay safe out there, do what you have to do and what you feel is right for you those close to you. Hopefully, we'll be able to defeat this one sooner than later.
Best, John "wheelson"
|
|
|
Post by franco on Dec 22, 2020 21:25:17 GMT
I hope it goes well for you guys
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Dec 22, 2020 21:52:06 GMT
I hope it goes well for you guys You too, Franco. It doesn’t sound good in your part of the world. Hopefully this new strain, though more contagious, will be less deadly. I’m told this is a general mutation pattern for viruses. Still hard to take but we have to remain positive and look forward to DFR 9, whatever form it takes. Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by franco on Dec 22, 2020 22:33:10 GMT
I hope it goes well for you guys You too, Franco. It doesn’t sound good in your part of the world. Hopefully this new strain, though more contagious, will be less deadly. I’m told this is a general mutation pattern for viruses. Still hard to take but we have to remain positive and look forward to DFR 9, whatever form it takes. Best, John “wheelson” Thanks John. Im 50 next year so not a priority as it stands for the vaccine. As for day to day life I’ve worked in other peoples homes through most of this year, it wasn’t easy to begin with due to hygiene paranoia but it did get easier as time went on. I’ve been in contact with a lot of people due to my job which our government allowed. Just have to be cautious with hand sanitizer and masks. Definitely looking forward to DFR9. Not even Covid can’t stop the death fork rallies!
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 9, 2021 23:55:19 GMT
How is everyone? This third lockdown seems to be tough in the UK, everyone is suffering. The time of year doesn’t help I’m sure. Good news is my parents will have the vaccine this month
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 10, 2021 1:52:33 GMT
How is everyone? This third lockdown seems to be tough in the UK, everyone is suffering. The time of year doesn’t help I’m sure. Good news is my parents will have the vaccine this month Hanging in there, Franco. My wife and daughter have both are both medical professionals and had both doses (Pfizer). Second dose was a bit tough for a few days. I had my first dose last week (I’m 72) but they’re still not sure the effectiveness against all strains or how long masks will be required. Whatever it takes, I want my life back, or whatever is left of it! 🤨 Best, John “wheelson”
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 10, 2021 5:15:21 GMT
My youngest daughter is an oncology nurse in Connecticut and she is twice-vaccinated (Moderna). My wife and I are both 67 and not currently eligible in Massachusetts but hope to be within the next few weeks. The different vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer, J&J) all seem close to 100% effective at preventing severe disease, which is big. If I have a choice I'll try to get the Pfizer one because the wait for the booster is only 3 weeks instead of 4 for Moderna. Those are the only two available in Massachusetts right now.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by velocipete on Feb 10, 2021 8:15:10 GMT
I had my first jab of Pfizer vaccine on Saturday. My left arm was rather sore for a couple of days afterwards,and I ached more than usual in my arthrytic places. At 73 I'm not doing so bad. I think it is just our current cold spell that is making me ache more than normal. I've not been out for a ride this year as I don't bounce as well as I used to. I'm really anticipating some good riding when the weather warms up. Cheers, Pete.
|
|
Jem
Viscount
?
Posts: 3,390
|
Post by Jem on Feb 11, 2021 17:36:22 GMT
I had my first jab of Pfizer vaccine on Saturday. My left arm was rather sore for a couple of days afterwards,and I ached more than usual in my arthrytic places. At 73 I'm not doing so bad. I think it is just our current cold spell that is making me ache more than normal. I've not been out for a ride this year as I don't bounce as well as I used to. I'm really anticipating some good riding when the weather warms up. Cheers, Pete. Some good news Pete! Did they indicate when your second shot would be? I think you're doing very well, as I am aching in this weather and you have 20 years on me. Keep doing what you're doing.
|
|
|
Post by velocipete on Feb 12, 2021 8:02:09 GMT
Jem,I don't want to keep on not going to the pub in the evening! I've always enjoyed the early doors pint (or three),this current scenario is not a good way for a chap to celebrate his final years. There was no indication of when the second jab would be given,only that I would be contacted to make an appointment. Thanks for the kind thoughts,I hope to see you all at DFR9. Cheers, Pete.
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 12, 2021 12:43:52 GMT
Jem,I don't want to keep on not going to the pub in the evening! I've always enjoyed the early doors pint (or three),this current scenario is not a good way for a chap to celebrate his final years. There was no indication of when the second jab would be given,only that I would be contacted to make an appointment. Thanks for the kind thoughts,I hope to see you all at DFR9. Cheers, Pete. For the Pfizer vaccine, it should be exactly three weeks after the first dose. I think they are careful about following that protocol according to my "sources", one daughter who is a nurse at a hospital and another who leads the PR team for the Pfizer vaccine rollout in the US. Then two weeks wait and you are free to enjoy as many pints as you want.
Brian
|
|
|
Post by franco on Feb 12, 2021 15:05:52 GMT
Jem,I don't want to keep on not going to the pub in the evening! I've always enjoyed the early doors pint (or three),this current scenario is not a good way for a chap to celebrate his final years. There was no indication of when the second jab would be given,only that I would be contacted to make an appointment. Thanks for the kind thoughts,I hope to see you all at DFR9. Cheers, Pete. I’ve taken to having a ‘few’ pints at home, not the same though is it. Hope everything goes well for you!
|
|
|
Post by dracco on Feb 13, 2021 12:25:30 GMT
I've just booked my first shot for Monday afternoon (15th Feb), with the follow-up booster in the first week in May. Oddly the NHS website told me that all the available vaccination cetntes were in (relatively) distant locations (Leeds, York and further afield), despite there being a vaccination centre just up the road from me in the Harrogate Showground.
|
|
|
Post by whippet on Feb 13, 2021 20:57:13 GMT
There’s the National NHS centres which you get directed to when you book via the NHS. Then there are local centres run and coordinated by consortiums of local practices, your local one will be one of those. Our local practices have opened a vaccination centre at Newbury Racecourse. When the local practices invite you to get a vaccination, this is where you’ll go.
|
|
|
Post by oldroadietehachapi on Feb 14, 2021 0:45:32 GMT
We have signed up for our vaccinations. Sadly very little vaccine has been sent to our area. I do not know anyone (other than our prison population and prison workers) who have received their vaccination locally. Our area (population 35,000) receives a couple of hundred doses each week. Optimistically, we may be able to get vaccinated by the end of March or early April. The state of California is in charge of distribution, which may explain why it is somewhat more available in the affluent coastal cities.
Jim
|
|
|
Post by wheelson on Feb 14, 2021 3:47:54 GMT
Amazing, isn't it? West Virginia, the state that is the butt of almost every joke, leads the USA as the best state in vaccine distribution. In Pennsylvania, even if you're eligible, it's like an Easter egg hunt to try to find a distribution point and get your name on a list. Best, John "wheelson"
|
|
|
Post by dracco on Feb 16, 2021 18:42:09 GMT
Jabbed yesterday in Leeds. Fortunately the vaccination centre turned out to be 15 minutes walk from my place of work, so was pretty convenient (although predominantly working from home right now, I typically go in a couple of times a week).
I got the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, for which the 12 week second shot is optimal. No significant reaction other than a slightly sore arm (actually less so than for the influenza vaccine).
|
|
|
Post by brianbutler on Feb 18, 2021 21:20:21 GMT
My wife and I became eligible for the vaccine today, along with 1M other people over 65 in Massachusetts. The appointment system is very stupid, a first come first served web site where 1M people are competing for 108K doses, something like trying to get tickets for a popular concert. Predictably, the web site has crashed many times during the day and all locations show zero appointments available.
My suggestion: let anyone who wants a vaccine register at any time in advance. Each week when the state gets its allotment of doses, pick that many people at random from the registered group and give them the opportunity to schedule an appointment. But I was not consulted.
Brian
|
|