WHAT THIS BLOG ALL ABOUT? 

History of Bicyle| Bicycle Adventuring| Long Ride

| Up to Mountain| Tips about Cyling| Health Benefits of Cycling

About Me: 

My name is Lou Renzo V. Cacho, I'm a college student, future educator, cyclist, and most importantly, a good person. 

     Being a cyclist, you need to be careful, strong and always prepare because cycling is not an easy sport. Learning to ride a bike is one of childhood's rites of passage and they say that once you learn how to ride it, you never forget that. But the times you fail and fall to ride a bike is the best memories of your childhood. When I was a kid, I always ride a bike with my friends to different places in Victoria, and because of riding a bicycle, it gives us good friendships.

      The reason that I ride a bike is because of environmentally friendly and having a healthy body. Using a bicycle for transportation can solve the heavy traffic and air pollution in the world because no pollution can affect our environment. For me, the only solution to change the world is to ride a bicycle. 

So, You want to know how to ride a bike?

Today I will show you how to ride a bicycle and give you some tips. Anyone can ride a bike but you need to learn about preparation, techniques, and expert advice. 

RIDING SAFETY:

1. Find a fitting location. When you learn how to ride, you want to find a great place that's comfortable and safe far from traffic. A good place should be a flat, smooth, and less polluted place as your driveway. For those who don't have a place at home can practice in a parking lot or park. If your plan on practicing balance and pedaling on hills, find a location with gentle slopes. Check the area if it's safe and legal especially on sidewalks or other paths. 

 

2. Wear riding clothing. You should use knee and elbow pads insulate joints and protect against scrapes, they're recommended for all riders. Wearing a long-sleeved t-shirt and long pants also help protect against fall and can be combined with pads for comfort. Always wear rubber shoes or cleats shoes when you riding a bike. Avoid baggy pants and long shirts because these may get caught in the gears and tires, and may result in falling down. Avoid open-toed shoes, these leave your feet exposed to the bike and ground. My outfit when I ride, I'm wearing long-sleeved cycling-jersey and long-cycling pants with pads for my protection in sunlight, heat, and fall. And especially rubber shoes to keeping me safe.

3. You must put your helmet. Helmets are recommended for beginners and experienced bike riders. Always remember that you will never know when the accidents will happen to you. This is the most important thing to do, wear your helmet before you ride. Enjoy your day and always remember these tips before you go outside and ride a bike. You can also wear cycling sunglasses to protect your eyes against sunlight and even air dirt.

Expert Advice before you ride a bike:

1. Always focus on the road and follow the rules. This is the basic strategy for all cyclist and it helps to ride safely in the road. To be safe and follow the rules of the road, you should always obey all the traffic signals and other signs on the roadway just as you would when operating any other vehicles.
2. Don't ride with headphones. When you are riding, especially in an area where there are a lot of other bikers, you should need to be able to hear what's going on around you. Don't ever try it that because it's dangerous.
3. Don't ride on the sidewalk. When you ride a bike on the sidewalk, it can create a dangerous situation for those on foot while also making you less visible to turning vehicles on the road. In a densely populated area, so riding a bike on the sidewalk can be very dangerous for everyone.
4. Yield before turning or moving to the left side of your lane of travel. There are times when you will need to move to the side of the lane to avoid an obstacle or to make a left-handed turn.
5. Always use hand signals. Most states require cyclists to alert others on the road for their intentions. While the vehicles are equipped with the blinkers and brake lights, the cyclist must use hand signals to let those around them know when they are making a turn, stop, or lateral movement in the roadway. This tip helps keep you safe as a cyclist and avoids an unnecessary collision.

Gears to keep the cyclist safe:
For me, accessories and gears before I ride is the most important thing to get because you can actually use these when you riding a bike and these items are required. It is a good idea to use the following gear whenever you ride your bicycle:

• Lights and reflectors. When you ride at night, state laws may require rear reflectors and white light on the front of your bike to improve visibility. You can buy these items in any bike shop and online shop.
• Helmets. Protecting the head in a collision should be priority number 1 no matter how long or short your trip is. Helmets are very recommended for a cyclist for protecting their head accidents.
• Bike bell. As a cyclist, a bike bell can alert others who might be blocking your lane of travel and bike bell helps cyclists avoid dangerous situations. 
• High-visibility clothing. Reflective clothing can help you be seen when daylight is limited. Also, you can wear a long-sleeve cycling jersey that can protect your skin from sunlight. 
• Waterbottle. Ensure that you always have a water bottle on hand to avoid dehydration and keep your energy levels up on long or short bike ride. You can also buy a water bottle cage at any bike store, making it easy to attach to your bike to lighten the load of your bag. 
• Sun protecting lotion. When you are going on a ride, particularly during summer, lather yourself in sunscreen, pop on a hat and some sunglasses to keep you sun safe. It is important to make sure you are protecting yourself from harmful UV rays.
• Small first aid kit. A first aid kit is not only for any accidents that you might be in, but if you have encountered any injured cyclist, you have a kit at hand. You should carry a first aid kit every time you ride. 
• Energy snacks and electrolyte drinks. A snack is important to pack on a long bike to make sure to keep your energy levels up. The best snacks for the long ride are bananas, there is potassium, and carbohydrates are great fuelling your muscles, as well as trail mic or some energy bars. Energy drinks can help refuel any electrolytes lost in sweat.
• Pump or mini inflator. A mini bike pump or inflator is small enough to fit in your pocket or it can be attached to your bottle cage with some clips. A flat tire can happen and you want to be prepared in case it does. Carrying a pump is important for a long ride.
• Patch kit. A patch kit is one of those things that you never think you will need it until you do. These are handy for any damage to your bike tubes which requires a quick fix. 

TIMELINE OF BICYCLE HISTORY 

     

       
 The goal of many inventors over the past 6 centuries was to discover a device for fast and easy road transport. From the earliest sketches of Leonardo Da Vinci to the first wheel based bicycle of Baron Karl von Drais they all wanted to make one device - the bicycle. Here are some of the most important timeline in the long history of bicycle:

• 1493 - One of the earliest bicycle sketches was found during the 1960s restoration of the Leonardo da Vinci "Codex Atlanticus". Bicycle drawing was not attributed to Da Vinci himself but is speculated to be made by his student Gian Giacomo Caprotti in 1493. His design could be made with materials that were widely available in those times, but no working prototype of the device was ever made. Some historians claim that traveling with a bicycle was not socially acceptable during that period. 

• 1649 - German inventor Johann Hautsch created an automated that could transport one passenger over 500m with the use of the complicated mechanical drive. His device reminded more of a motorcar than a bicycle. 

• 1680 - German inventor Stephan Farffler created the first known tricycle. This model did not feature pedals, but it was propelled with the use of hand crank. 

• 1817 - German Baron Karl von Drais created the precursor to today's bicycle. His invention known as Laufmaschine (Draisine in England and Draisienne in France) represented the first commercially successful human-powered, two-wheeled, steerable transport machine. Its design closely resembled modern bicycle, but with the omission of the chain based transmission to one of the wheels. The force of human walk or run solely powered his velocipede. After achieving desirable speed passenger could lift his feet from the ground and continue cruising. 

• 1820 - Few years after Laufmaschine, English inventor Denis Johnson improved version of Baron Karl von Drais' design. His "Dandy Horse" had much larger wheels, which improved the stability during the ride. 

• 1860 - During the 1860s decade bicycle one of the most important improvements of all time. Pierre Michaux patented bicycle pedal in 1861 and he started using rubber tires and ball bearing for faster and easier use. The first recorded bicycle race happened on May 31, 1868. 

• 1870 - Frenchman Eugene Meyer made a bicycle with the very large front wheel and smaller back wheel. The popular model of that type was mass-produced by Englishman James Starley, who improved the comfort of the ride but added more danger in some situations (riding downhill, increased injuries after the fall). 

• 1874 - H.J. Lawson made the first bicycle with a chain. 

• 1885 - James Starley started production of his safety bicycle "Rover" which is today regarded as the first model of "modern" bicycle. This model was very comfortable to use and it started the era known as "Golden Age of Bicycle".

• 1900 - The bicycle design became standardized (basic diamond shape made from metal, pneumatic rubber tires, roller chain, one gear, coaster brakes) and was unchanged for more than 50 years. At the time, many cycling clubs formed in America and Europe, which gave much more popularity to that way of transport. Until the appearance of mass production cars, bicycles and horses were the only way private transportation. 

• 1980 - During the 1980s, the use of Mountain Bikes and Bmx became popular. They introduced multiple gears and much lighter construction frames made from aluminum alloy or carbon fiber.

• 2000 - Solar powered Bike designed by Miroslav Miljevic to include a solar-powered battery. Intended for commuters so when they leave their bike outside all day, they won't have to pedal home. 

Bicycle Types: How to Pick the Best Bike for You

When trying to decide on the best type of bike, think about these questions:

1. Who do you ride with?
2. What do they ride?
3. What have you had in the past that you liked?
4. What have you had in the past that you disliked?
5. Where would you like to ride your new bike?

If you are buying a new bike to ride with a group of friends, buy something similar to what they ride. You will not be able to keep up with road bikes if you are on a mountain bike. And a road bike can't go on the dirt. If you enjoyed a three-speed as a child, you may find this a fun bike again. If you disliked the road bike you bought a few years ago, perhaps a mountain bike would be better. 

• ROAD BIKES 

Road bicycles are designed to be ridden fast on smooth pavement. They have smooth, skinny tires and "drop" handlebars, and can be used for on-road racing. They are usually lighter than other types of bicycles. They can be ridden on paved on trails, but most people find them uncomfortable and unstable on unpaved trails. Most road bikes are not capable of carrying heavy loads, so they are not very suitable for commuting or touring.

• MOUNTAIN BIKES

Mountain Bicycles are designed for riding rough off-road trails. They have flat or upright handlebars and a very low gear range for pedaling up steep trails. Most mountain bikes have some type of shock absorbers or suspension. Mountain bikes with front suspension only are called hardtails; mountain bikes with both front and rear suspension are called full-suspension bikes. Mountain bikes with no suspension are called rigid. Mountain bikes can be outfitted for use as touring or commuting bikes, although they would not be as light or efficient as traditional touring or commuting bikes. Mountain bikes are usually preferred by Filipino's because it is easy and affordable in the Philippines.

• CYCLOCROSS BIKES 

Cyclocross bicycles are a special type of road bike designed to be raced on a mixed surface course (the combination of pavement, unpaved trails, gravel, grass). They have a drop handlebar like regular road bikes, but the tires are a little wider for more off-road traction, and they have a different style of brake that helps to prevent mud buildup in the frame. Cyclocross bicycles are sometimes called 'cross bikes or cx bikes for short.

• FOLDING BIKES 

Folding Bicycles are ideal for those who need to travel by their bike, want a bike to keep on their boat or plane, or who live in small apartments and don't have a lot of storage space. They are also good for commuters who need to take their bike on a bus or train for part of their commute, or who don't have a safe place to park their bike at work. Most folding bikes have smaller wheels, which makes the bike a little less efficient and trickier to handle than a standard bike, but most folding bike fans feel the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. Most of the Filipino commuters are using folding bikes for their work. 

• TRACK BIKE OR FIXED GEAR 

A track bike is a road bike with a single gear that does not freewheel or coast. This means the cyclist cannot coast on this style of bike. In fact, true track bikes do not even have brakes so the athlete must use their leg strength to stop the cranks from turning, which stops the motion of the bike. Track racing is done in an indoor track with banked turns called a velodrome. Fixed gear bikes are the outdoor version of a track bike. They have a single, fixed gear but may have brakes and different styles of handlebars. These bikes are often used for racers in training because they force the athlete to spin their legs in a consistent circle and run a higher cadence. They are also used in cities or as foul weather bikes because there are so few moving parts on a fixed gear, they are inexpensive and little can go wrong. Finally, many individuals ride "fixies" for the noblest of all reasons. Fun, coupled with a deep-rooted nostalgic connection to the early years of cycling when all bikes were fixed gears. 

• BMX OR TRICK BIKE 

BMX stands for Bicycle Motor Cross because these single-speed bikes are raced around a short dirt track similar to the motorsport. Frequently, the term BMX is used to describe any single-speed bike with a 20'' wheel. These bikes are often very robust and durable and would be the best selection for anyone intending to do jumps or tricks. BMX Bicycles are popular with kids because of their small size, but they are used by adults and kids alike for various styles of trick and stunt riding.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CYCLING

Riding a bike can help you lose weight, but it can also make you smarter and build your self-esteem. 

You probably already know that cycling is good for you. Any exercise is better than no exercise, being a right? But did you know that riding a bike offers a whole host of additional health benefits besides the physical perks? Aside from using your rides to get in the recommended 150 minutes of weekly exercise, there are tons of other good health benefits you get by spending more time in the saddle. Here's what happens to your body when you cycle. These health benefits of cycling will make you happier, healthier, and more stoked to keep riding. 

1. More Brainpower - A study conducted by Charles Hillman showed that exercise boosts brainpower and helps to stave off Alzheimer's in the elderly. Another study published in Pediatrics showed that kids are even more positively impacted by time on the bike and that exercise can help control issues like attention deficit disorder. 
2. Fast Recovery - A recent study found that elderly patients with knee pain and osteoarthritis actually improved their condition when cycling was introduced to their routines, proving that as we get older, taking time to exercise, even just spinning a few minutes a day can be hugely beneficial. 
3. Improved Heart Health - Cycling is also great for your heart, although not just because you love riding so much(though that's a great reason, too). A recent study in Sports & exercise spent five years looking at the activity of 1,500 subjects. Those who were active daily were 31 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure. Another study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that getting in a hard workout can lower high blood pressure as much as prescription meds can. Don't ditch your meds just yet, but do consider adding more sweaty rides to your training plan with the approval of your doctor. 
4. Sexier Vibes -  Best news ever: You aren't the only one who thinks spandex is super hot. A survey of 600 men and women commissioned by The British Heart Foundation found that cyclist was perceived as 13 percent more intelligent and cooler than to other people, and a whopping 23 percent said a cyclist would be their preferred blind-date athlete.
5. Less Fat - It shouldn't really come as a surprise that weight loss is one of the big benefits of regular cycling, but it bears repeating. The media is often quick to promote the idea that diet is the only way to actually shed fat, but science shows otherwise. Recent studies have shown that older, diabetic women could only drop visceral fat (harmful fat that can increase the risk of a health problem such as heart attack, stroke, and type 2 diabetes) if exercise, along with diet, was introduced into their routine. And, a study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that aerobic exercise (like cycling) helped overweight and obese participants drop visceral fat.
6. Lowered Risk of Cancer - Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a conscientious diet (think: lots of leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy grains) all help lower your risk of cancer. And a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association recently looked at nearly 14,000 men and concluded that those with a higher fitness level as they approached middle age were at a lower risk for lung and colorectal cancer.
7. Higher Self-Esteem - It's no surprise that exercises in general (and cycling in particular) helps improve your self-esteem. The next time you take the perfect mid-ride selfie, score that Strava QOV or KOM you've been chasing, or finish a really hard workout, your body will release a whole bunch of feel-great hormones that will make you feel like you can take over the world.
8. A Longer Life - According to one study of Tour de France riders, cycling actually increased the racer's longevity. On average, the former pros lived to 81.5 years compared to the general population's 73.5 years: a 17 percent increase. Another study suggested that even casual bike commuters benefit: For individuals who shift from car to bicycle, it was estimated that three to 14 months of life could be gained compared to the potential downsides of bike commuting. Another recent study showed that riding between just one and 60 minutes a week could cut the risk of early death by up to 23 percent. 
9. Slowed Aging - Researches found that high-intensity cycling (and other high-intensity interval training) can have major anti-aging benefits down to the cellular level. The study found that people who did high-intensity exercise had an increase in mitochondrial capacity. A decline in mitochondria can lead to physical decline, so the better your mitochondria can function, the more rejuvenated you will be all the way down to a cellular level.
10. Less Stress - Everyone knows that exercise can help reduce stress, but a recent study in the Lancet of over one million participants that cycling of the top stress-busting activities. Riders enjoyed 21.6 percent fewer days of poor mental health compared to those who didn't ride. This was the only second team sports (23.3 percent), and above other aerobic and gym activities. Simply making your rides group rides can help you reap the social benefits of a team sports and increase the number of goof days you have.

"Bike is Life"

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BICYCLE AND CYCLING

• The world bicycle started being used several years after the first bicycles appeared for sale. Those first models were called velocipedes.
• First bicycles were created in France, but its modern design was born in England. 
• Inventors who first conceived modern bicycles were either blacksmiths or Cartwright. 
• Over 100 million are manufactured each year.
• First commercially sold bicycle "Boneshaker" weighed 80 kg when it appeared for sale in 1868 in Paris.
• More than 100 years later after the first bicycle was brought into China, this country now has over half a billion of them.
• The fastest measured speed of a driving bicycle on a flat is 133.75 km/h.
• Popular bicycle type BMX was created in the 1970s as a cheaper alternative to motocross races. Today they can be found all around the world.
• The first bicycle-like transportation device was created in 1817 by German Baron Karl von Drais. His design became known as a draisine or dandy horse, but it was quickly replaced with more advanced velocipede designs that had pedal-driven transmission. 
• Three most famous types of a bicycle in the first 40 bicycle history were French Boneshaker, English penny-farthing, and Rover Safety Bicycle. 
• There are over 1 billion bicycles currently being used all around the world. As of now, people will appreciate the bicycle because of the bike to work. 
• Cycling as a popular pastime and competitive sports was established during the late 19th century in England.
• Bicycles save over 240 million gallons of gas every year. FACTS!
• The smallest bicycle ever made has wheels of the size of silver dollars.
• The most famous bicycle race in the world is the Tour de France which was established in 1903 and is still driven each year when cyclists from all over the world take part in a 3-week event that is finished in Paris.
•  Cycling is one of the best pastimes for people who want to reduce the risk of having heart disease and stroke.
• One year maintenance cost for bicycles is over 20 cheaper than for a single car.
• E-bikes are very popular because they make daily commutes much easier. 
• First Mountain Bike was made in 1977.
• The same energy that is expended for walking can be used with bicycles for x3 increase of speed.
• Energy and resources that are used for the creation of one single car can be used for the creation of up to 100 bicycles.
• Over the past 30 years, bicycle delivery services have developed into an important industry, especially in cities, where the couriers have earned a reputation for their high speed and traffic-weaving skills.

WARNING!! Riding a Bicycle Can Have the Following Side Effects:

If you are thinking about replacing a car trip with a bicycle trip instead, it is important to know the repercussions of that choice. Read further for 10 side effects that your doctor or bicycle salesman may not have told you about. 

1. Weight Loss - If you are trying to get fat, then cycling might not be right for you. Cycling has been known to deplete calories stored in the body's fat reserves, thus decreasing the gravitational pull on the affected body.
2. Slowed Breathing - Those who cycle regularly have reported more time needed for each breath during both exertion and periods of rest.
3. Dangerously low amounts of Stress - Those who commute to work by bicycle have been observed to be void of hostility, which some claim is an important survival tool in today's world.
4. Punctuality - Being able to navigate around traffic, take shortcuts through places where cars can't fit, and choose between both car and bicycle infrastructure can often leave cyclists bored and twiddling their thumbs, waiting for the rest of their associates to show up at work or when meeting friends for lunch.
5. Caffeine-free mental stimulation - Those who cycle often attain natural alertness and thus are unable to justify a delicious morning cup of coffee.
6. Feeling of Invincibility - Those who power their own commute often feel that they accomplish anything.
7. It can be a gateway activity - Cycling can lead to curiosity, exploration, and even a dependence on other natural, non-motorized activities.
8. Extreme Joy - Regular cyclists often get left out of the popular pastime. Too much smiling can also add laugh lines to the face.
9. Sunburn - Speaking of sunburn, whether cycling in the sun or on a cloudy day, you will be exposed to some degree of UV-radiation. It can be minimized by riding your bike in the morning or by wearing clothing with high UPF-Ultraviolet Protecting Factor, such as cotton lycra, darker colors, and more form-fitting styles, but don't forget to add a high-factor sunscreen to your list of must-haves. You should apply it half an hour before heading out and make sure you re-use it frequently, particularly in skin areas that are more likely to be exposed to the hot rays of the sun while cyclings, like the back of your neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and face.
10. Dehydration - No matter how low-impact exercise cycling is, don't underestimate sweating and the loss of fluids, after a long session in the heat. A research study supported by the University of Athens, Greece warns. In essence, even mild dehydration can decrease your physical energy, which could worsen the overall strain in your body, muscles, and heart. Don't forget to rehydrate frequently on the road.

While there ate many side effects of cycling that are considered negative, don't ditch this fabulous hobby and sport out of the fear of physical injuries or complications. With the proper precautions taken, you can minimize all of the above potential dangers of cycling, while enjoying its positive effects indefinitely. 

 The Anatomy of Mountain Bike 

What are the parts of a Mountain Bike?

Okay so you have bought a new mountain bike, or you're looking for a new one, and you want to know more about all the parts of a mountain bike. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive overview of every single piece that makes up a modern mountain bike. From derailleurs to valves, from brakes to pedals, you can find it all here.

Frame - The most important part of a mountain bike. This is the backbone of your bike, the largest part that joins all other parts together. A good frame is what sets any bike apart, so you're advised to spend some money on it. Quality frames will last years. The mountain bike frames are commonly available in two different materials. Aluminum (or an aluminum mix) is the most affordable material. It's light and strong, making it the most popular frame material. The other one is carbon, which is also light and strong but has the additional perk of being shock-absorbent. Carbon frames are expensive but worth splurging on if you have the money. A-frame consists of six basic parts: three tubes, two stays, and one fork. The three tubes form the main triangle of your mountain bike's frame, being the top, down, and seat tubes. Together with the seat tube, the seat stay and chain stay make up the rear triangle of the frame. Both stays note that there are two of each, so four in total, connects at the rear wheel hub. The front fork is the two-legged part at the front of your frame. This is the part that keeps the front wheel in place. 

Wheels - The one part everyone knows is the rubber tire, which comes in a variety of sizes depending on the terrain you'd like to ride your bike on. Tires consist of two parts. The inner tire is filled with pressurized air. The much thicker and stronger outer tire has grooves for better grip. The tire is connected to the wheel's rim, which is the outer hoop of the wheel. Just like the frame, the most common material used to make wheel rims is aluminum. Cheaper bikes may have steel rims while high-end mountain bikes have rims made of carbon fiber. The valve of the inner tire, used for blowing up the tire, sticks through a small hole in the rim. Spokes are attached to the rim with the nipples and converge toward the center of the wheel. This center is known as the hub, an important part of the wheel containing the axle and ball bearings. 

• Pedals, Cranks, and Bottom Bracket - The pedals and cranks, when pushed, make the chain spin and the bike move forward. The pedals are attached to the cranks, which are connected to the bottom bracket. The bottom bracket is where the down tube, seat tube, and seat stay come together. It contains a spindle and the bearings that allow the cranks and spindle to spin. Pedals and cranks may also be one of the parts of a mountain bike that is taken for granted. However, there are a few things that you need to consider when buying a new mountain bike. First of all, there are two types of pedals: Flat pedals and Clip pedals. Flat pedals (with or without teeth) are the best for beginning mountain bikers. Clip pedals, securing your feet to your pedals are great if you want more pedaling power. They allow you to both pushdown with one leg while pulling upward with the other. You can also opt to get pedals that are both one side flat, the other side with clips. Even the cranks are worth considering. The shorter the cranks, the less pedaling power you have. On the other hand, short cranks are better if you're downhill mountain biking and go over lots of obstacles.
• Chain and Gears - The chain and gears make up one of the most important parts of a mountain bike. In fact, good sets of gears are what separate high-end bikes from averages ones. The importance of good gears sets cannot be overstated. A good mountain bike has two sets of gears, one at the front at the cranks, and one at the rear wheel. The front gear set consists of two or three chain wheels and the front derailleur. The derailleur is responsible for shifting the chain from one chain wheel to the next. You'll use the front gear sets less often than the rear gear set, as it consists of the big gears. Each gear shift results in a significant difference in pedaling power. The rear gear set contains more and smaller chain wheels than the front one. This set is responsible for a short and precise shift in gear. You'll use it a lot, which also means that it needs to have quality materials. Here, too, the derailleur takes care of the shifting of the chain from one wheel to the other. The rear derailleur is much larger than the front one, hanging down from the center of the rear wheel. You control both gear sets and derailleurs with the shift levers on your handlebar. Gear cables run from those levers to their respective derailleur, transporting the message of that you'd like them to do.

• Brakes - The bicycle brake system consists of three main components. The handlebar brake levers are connected to the brake pads or discs by the brake cables. Let's talk for a second about the difference between brake pads or discs. 
• Brake Pads -  Brake pads are located at the top of both the front and rear wheels, respectively near the front fork and the seat stay. By pulling the brake levers, the pads, one on each side of the wheel, get pushed together. By squeezing the rim of the spinning wheel, they'll slow it down.
• Disk Brakes - You will find the brake discs around the hub of your wheels. This modern and highly effective braking system also uses pads to slow down your bike. The difference is that the pads are moved onto discs as opposed to the rim of the wheel. According to Ibikeride.com, it says that discs brakes are good for all types of mountain biking because they offer consistent, effective braking regardless of temperature, rim condition, or trail conditions. 

• Seat Post and Saddle - The seat post slides into the seat tube and can be moved up or down, depending on your own height. It's secured by tightening the seat post clamp. The saddle is on top of the seat post. It's essential that your saddle is comfortable and that it wicks moisture and water. 

• Handle Bar - The handlebar, as its name suggests, is where you place your hands. With this part, which contains the brake and shift levers, you steer the front wheel. There are several different types of handlebars. The most common one for mountain bikes is the flat bar. This is basically a straight bar with very little or no upward or downward curves.

•  Suspension - Many modern mountain bikes come with either front or rear suspension, or both. Front suspension is placed in the front fork. The rear suspension is much more intricate and can be either the stays or the seat tube. Often, mountain bikes with rear suspension have a much more complicated frame.

MY MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE

Every adventure creates a story and nothing makes us happier than being able to share these experiences with others. If you love adventure, travel, or just getting out on the trail then this is the place for you. I hope you will enjoy my trips with my mountain bike and each story has a different experience.

• On January 27, 2018, Me and with my friend Eryll Valdez are decided to ride with a mountain bike in Monasterio de Tarlac, San Jose Tarlac. The Monasterio de Tarlac is a popular tourist destination in the province of Tarlac in the Philippines. It is a monastery on top of Mountain Resurrection, part of Zambales Mountain Range in San Jose, one of the municipalities in Tarlac. In the monastery can be found a relic the True Cross. We started the ride within 5:00 am in the morning and we're also done ride at the top of the mountain at 11:00 am in the afternoon. This trip was very insane because this was my first long ride with my mountain bike and also I experience the uphill and downhill that isn't easy. All the pain, sweat, and exhausted to climb that mountain, it is very worth it because you actually see the beauty of nature and the mountain in the San Jose, Tarlac. I take some selfies and pictures with my friend and we're eating a lot of food at that time. This adventure is the best memory for me because this is my first time to feel nature and to feel the excitement with the mountain bike. As a beginner, you should continue your journey with your favorite hobbies like this mountain biking.

• On February 24, 2018, this was my second time to have a long ride with my friends. We are going to Santo Domingo, Nueva Ecija, and Guimba, Nueva Ecija to have a long trip. This long trip was very exciting because we have bonded with my friends, and we are also talking about our future and plans in life while riding a bike. After we ride, we decided to eat some breakfast like Lugaw, Fried rice, and take some rest at the canteen in a high way in Guimba, Nueva Ecija. This ride has a lot of good memories with my fellow cyclist and friends. 

• On March 31, 2018, this was my third long ride with new cyclist friends in Victoria, Tarlac. This ride we are going to Paniqui, Camiling, Santa Ignacia, and Tagumabao Bridge, Gerona Tarlac. Our fellow cyclist is the professional and they are also teachers, they teach us the safety guides in riding a bike and also they have riding skills and experience in mountain biking. So as a beginner, I've learned simple things and knowledge in cycling adventures to them.

• On April 18, 2018, my old classmates in elementary want to join with me with a long ride at the Tarlac Recreational Park, San Jose, Tarlac. It is funny because I actually late to come with them, but they are still waiting for me at the 7/11 store at 6:00 am. This ride was a great memory with my old friends and classmates, so that, we actually talk about our life in the past and present. This kind of ride with your friends is very important to have bonding again with them and to know more about their selves. I always say that to them that you should ride safely, be careful about your ride adventures. 

• On April 21, 2020, I also plan and ask to join with me to have a long ride to Victoria to Luisita Tarlac. My friends in Bulo, Victoria want to join me for a long ride. In the morning at 5:00 am we decided to go, after 2 hours in riding a bike, we have actually at Tarlac City and take some rest to have breakfast. After that, we ride again to go to Luisita Tarlac, my fellow cyclist wants to take a selfie and pictures around the whole part of Luisita. This ride has also had a great memory with my fellow friends and cyclist, because of them my long trip continued.

• On April 28, 2018, this was my night ride with my best friend Adrian and we ride at Gerona to Paniqui. Our outfit that night was very simple and no helmet. It was very dangerous to ride out because we are not preparing our gears. That was the first ride of my friend with me and he said to me that ride is tedious. As a beginner to ride a bike you should protect your self with safety gear and always wear your helmet, that is the most important thing in riding a bike.

• This was the morning after the first night ride with my fellow friend Adrian, and we actually plan and decided this long ride. We are going to Lapaz, Tarlac and we also going to Tarlac City. This kind of ride helps us to reduce stress and have exercise every morning.  On that day, the ride was very chill and the weather is good for biking because the weather that morning was cold. The town plaza of Lapaz is stunning and good for kids because of the cartoon character display in their town plaza. When we ride a bike, we should be happy and thankful for the kind of good and safety trip. 

• On May 04, 2018, we are going to Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija to visit the Nampicuan Parish Church "Holy Face of Jesus" with my fellow cyclist Adrian. We thump at 5:00 am in the morning and we arrived in the town of Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija. The town is very peaceful and the people are very friendly to us, especially when we ask them to take us to the Church of Holy Face of Jesus. They actually guide us and give the right direction to go to that Church. The Church is quiescent and the surrounding is clean. When we go inside the church, we kneel down, give some respect, and the most important thing is to pray for our safety. We should pray first before we ride and be kind always especially to the people. We have the opportunity to forgive, give thanks, and beg for pardon to our Lord Jesus Christ. As a cyclist, you should need peace, good health, and be responsible for everything with Christ. Let's take a chance to change, give some love to others. According to Pope John Paul II, "Christianity is not a form of culture or an ideology or a system of lofty principles or values. Christianity is a Face: Jesus Christ!".

• On May 09, 2018, this was the first long ride with Adrian and us actually ride on Victoria, Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Camiling, Santa Ignacia, and to Gerona Tarlac. That was insane! We are so tired that day, and we are not prepared for that long trip with him. But, this is worth it, I promise! because we actually enjoy riding a bike with a nice beauty of nature, churches, and even the town of our destination. I am very thankful to see the old church in Camiling, Tarlac. The St. Michael the Archangel Church was built by the Dominicans in 1879 but heavily damaged in the earthquake of 1880. The church was restored and survived the war and in 1994 it was proclaimed a national historical monument. In 1997, It was destroyed by fire, the fire practically consumed the interior, only leaving the exterior walls. The facade seems well intact, reconstruction ceased in 2003. Instead of a new church was built beside it in 2004. Keep safe and ride for your happiness. I still admire all the places we ride and also we are not finished. 

• On May 12, 2018, the cycling group in victoria had to decide their long ride and they create a group chat to talk about. So, my friend Eryll, Mhacky and Adrian are not available on that day, I just go without them. Actually, the group leader was the teacher who went with us into the Camiling loop. We decided to go to Central Luzon State University in Nueva Ecija, which is an insane ride. At 5:00 am in the morning, we are on the way to Nueva Ecija, at 7:00 am are we decide to take breakfast and take a rest. After that, we ride again and decide to finish the ride. When we are in the arch of the Science City of Munoz, we take some pictures and selfies for good memory. The Central Luzon State University is one of the premieres institutions for agriculture in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia know for research in Aquaculture, Ruminants, Crops, Orchard, and Water Management. That university is so extensive and good for biking, and usually, I really like the place with fresh air, more trees, and the store full of cow chocolate milk and cultured yogurt made in CLSU. After that long ride, we are so very tired because of the long-distance and hot weather.  

• This day is one of the best long rides for me and also a perfect long ride for us. On May 25, 2018, all my fellow cyclists plan this long ride and they decided to have a group cyclist ride at Manaoag, Pangasinan. In the 4:30 am in the morning, we are prepared, having some breakfast and waiting for the others at Victoria, Plaza. After that, at 5:00 am in the morning we started to go with our fellow cyclist. We have actually arrived in Manaoag Pangasinan at 10:30 am and we will go to the Manaoag Church. Trivia about The Shrine Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Manaoag, the Dominicans started the mission at Manaoag in 1605. Since then the Images of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag was placed in the Dominican mission first from Baloquing (which is the present site of the cemetery) than to its present location. On February 17, 2015, with Archbishop Socrates Villegas, The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag was granted the status of Minor Basilica. After we finished visiting and pray at the church, we will have a lunch break and rest time in the near cafeteria. And then, we are going home and ride again. This long ride is one of my favorites and it is very worth it even though if it is too far. Because of my fellow cyclist and my best buddy Adrian, I made it with my mountain bike. You can reach your dream like this if you are not hopeless, even it is too hard to ride but the achievement that you can had is very worth it. Enjoy life with a bicycle.

• On May 28, 2018, My fellow cyclist Eryll and Adrian inviting me to ride with them to go to Monasterio de Tarlac. This was our second time to ride and climb again to San Jose and I'm so glad that my friend Adrian will gonna join us. Starting 5:00-9:00 am we have arrived in San Jose, Tarlac. We are now going to the high mountain of Monasterio de Tarlac, it is very hard to climb the bike at the mountain for me even it was my second time. After the long climb and ride, we are now at the top of the mountain and we will take some pictures together. I am so happy that my friends or my fellow cyclist are still together to have a nice adventure. If you want to have a bonding with your friends and family, you can travel with them and enjoy the nature. Using a bicycle in your travel it is much more challenging but it more enjoyable.  

 

• On May 31, 2018, Adrian and I are planning the long ride to Capas Shrine and Grotto Bamban Tarlac. This loop was very fun and exciting because I already see the History of Death March during World War II in National Shrine in Capas and also to Grotto that has a peaceful area at the top of the mountain. In Capas Shrine you can enjoy the view of nature and you can also saw the big tower and other monuments. Trivia about Capas National Shrine, a 50-hectare land located in Western Capas, known as the former Capas Prisoners War Concentration Camp, Capas National Shrine is marked by a gigantic obelisk surpassing popular monuments and matching other skyscrapers common to Filipinos and tourists. Thus, this mighty pillar stands with pride to commemorate the heroism of the Filipino veterans during World War II. After we finished visited the Capas Shrine, we are on the way to Capas Death Monument to see the historical monument. It is built in an inverted V structure, it depicts the endurance and heroism of valiant soldiers, defenders of freedom and democracy. An emblem stands as a historical marker located three (3) kilometers from the town proper along the highway in Barangay Cutcut I. The Next destination is to Bamban Tarlac and it is bounded by the municipality of Capas, Tarlac, and on the south, by the municipality of Mabalacat, Pampanga. Historical records state that the early inhabits of the settlement, which was to become Pueblo de Bamban, were the Aetas or Negritos and Zambals. We are decided to go to Our Lady of Lourdes of Grotto, Lourdes, Bamban Tarlac to see the beauty of the place. We go to the top of the Grotto and I am happy that I saw Mama Mary at the top and also I saw the beauty of Bamban Tarlac. After we pray and took some pictures, we are now going to the last destination on our long ride, and that is the Bamban Bridge. This long ride has so much fun because we saw the historical monument and the beauty of Capas and Bamban Tarlac. I saw a quote that I remember on that day, "Escape and breathe the air of new places" this quote helps me to enjoy life and to continue.

• On 2, 2018, we are at Mt. Bulaylay Brgy. Landig, Cuyapo Nueva Ecija. This was one of the insane ascents that I experience in my entire life because as you can see that mountain and the place was a steep mountain. But this mountain adventure is very worth it because of the beauty of the mountain. You can also try to zip line in the mountain and enjoy the view of nature. After we finished taking pictures at the top, we are now going to the near cafeteria to have some breakfast with my cyclist friends. I would like to go back and to climb again in Mt. Bulaylay with my fellow cyclist and take some photos again. I really miss them to ride and have some bonding with my fellow cyclist. All my adventures with them are just happy memory and I will keep it forever.  

• On October 13, 2018, I am inviting my fellow cyclist and my other friends to go to Pangasinan for some adventure. My friend Adrian and my new buddy Aaron decided to join with me to go to Pangasinan. We are actually on the way to Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija for the shortcut way to go to Mt. Balungao Pangasinan. And after 5 hours of riding a bike, we are now on the Balungao Hilltop Adventure to took some photos and videos. There is a lot of great and exciting hiking activity and you can experience the longest zip line in Pangasinan. We are already swimming in their cold and hot spring pool. After that, we are going to have a lunch break and go home. We passed through Rosales, Pangasinan to go to Sm Rosales to buy some snacks and have lunch again at KFC. I really enjoyed this kind of adventure even it is too hard to ride with my bike, but it is perfect for a group ride with your fellow cyclist to experience this kind of adventure tour. 

• On January 27, 2019, we're decided to go to Mayantoc, Tarlac for another adventure. We have a new member and that is my cousin Robert, he joins for our adventure trip to experience this kind of ride. Here's some trivia about Mayantoc Tarlac, it is the Summer Capital of Tarlac. Mayantoc town is a haven for the outdoorsy. It's land area, particularly the mountain part, is still covered by lush forest. Mayantoc town was once the biggest barangay in Camiling Tarlac until January 17, 1917. Several outdoor activities such as camping, mountaineering, biking, swimming, and rafting are available in this town. So we are going to Calao Falls to see the hidden waterfalls with my fellow cyclist. In Sitio Calao Barangay San Jose, a hidden waterfall is now a hiking and biking sensation in town and to nearby provinces. Kalaw Falls is a perfect destination especially if trekking or waterfall chasing is your kind of thing. Calao Falls (Sitio Calao) was named from the species of beautiful bird Kalaw which once was rampant in the area. This species is now endangered and our guide told us there were only a few to be in the area. The waterfalls were cold and clean that you should enjoy and relax. My fellow cyclist is happy because of their experiences in Calao Falls and to Mayantoc Tarlac. One of the best adventures for me!

Where is the last ride that I ever had?

When is the last that I ride? 

This was the last and I will never forget the adventure that I experience in my whole life!

• May 06, 2019, this was my last and the best long ride that I really never forget for my entire life because this was the longest ride for me. We decided to go to Minalungao, Nueva Ecija to visit the Minalungao National Park. At 4:00 am we on the way to Lapaz Tarlac high-way to go to Nueva Ecija. We are already prepared for our foods and snacks before we ride, and at 10:00 am we have actually arrived at Minalungao National Park. What is so special about Minalungao National Park? So, Minalungao National Park is a protected area and one of the few remaining natural environments in the region north of Metro Manila. Spanning over 2,000 hectares, it lures travelers with the picturesque sight of the emerald-colored Penaranda River that runs across most of the park and the towering limestone formations that border it. Adrenaline seekers also have a place in Minalungao as there as plenty of activities there that will give them their fix. If you visit Minalungao Park you probably enjoy and experience the beauty of nature. We are very happy to see the water of Penaranda River is crystal clear, which is why it will be hard for you to resist taking a dip. We have a lot of photos on the stones and river, and when we are diving at the river of Minalungao, you have to take some pictures. All the tourists and tourist guides are very kind and friendly to everyone. This is so special to me because I've learned more about adventures and having bonded with my friends. As a cyclist, you should not stop riding your bike for some adventures and you can also ask your friends to join your long trips. Enjoy nature and explore more with your bike. Be brave and always follow your dreams to reach your goals. Never stop riding a bike and continue your adventure trips.