Gel Cover- Review

I have recently purchased a " gel saddle cover" for my mountain bike as the original saddle was quite uncomfortable after long periods of use.

The description included

• Soft Padded Top


• Stretch Fit


• Extra Gel For Comfort

Which is all true but after having used it for two days I've got to say that It's not worth the money. The gel becomes compressed when you sit on it for long enough and that is just as painful if not more so as it was with the original non covered saddle.

Also it's wider around the edges so there is quite a bit of thigh chaffing, And it does seem to add some weight to the bike admittedly not a lot but enough to notice.

But perhaps the most annoying fault that I have found is the fact that it absorbs moisture, Unlike the conventional saddles of leather or plastic which can be wiped dry.

So when riding in the rain it's like having a heavy duty sponge stuck to your bike and you can guarantee a soggy bottom by the end of the day!

Of course this is just my opinion and what Ive found- final statement " Don't waste your time, Money or Energy on a gel saddle cover"

Hitting the trails

Yesterday was an awesome day for biking, I took off just after 10am, The weather was actually not half bad although there was the threat of scattered showers so I packed my bag including my waterproofs and headed out.

I'd heard about some good trails in Ravensdale forest, I've never been there before so thought it's now or never.

The ride over takes about 50mins mostly uphill but there are a lot of things to see along the way like the equestrian centre, I stopped there for a while then reached the woods.

The trails were brilliant with smooth jumps, the downhill descents were awesome even if a little muddy from the previous days rain.

After about an hour of exploring I headed home just as the first heavy shower hit.

I was happy I had remembered the waterproofs!

A quick shot of one of the small trails

Cat and Mouse

Got Up quite early this morning with the plan of hitting the road before the school buses and kids over took it entirely, Looked out the kitchen window to see that a light spatter of rain had begun, Nothing unusual about that its Ireland it rains 99% of the time.
So after a slice of toast, Some coffee and a cigarette ( unfortunately I haven't quite managed to give up the dreaded weed just yet) I packed my bag with the essentials got my bike out and was on my way.
I don't usually plan my route just go where the mood takes me so I headed north for a while at a leisurely pace.
The newborn lambs where jumping in the fields and the birds were twittering away the light rain was actually quite refreshing I was enjoying the morning air immensely.
I noticed a couple of cyclists up ahead, These guys were the serious kind with the spandex shorts and speedy bikes so as a little challenge I decided to catch them up, One of them noticed what i was up to and made some comment to his partner probably about the little mountain bike on their tail. after a few seconds I was riding right next to them I said good morning and one guy waved then the race began they shifted into high gear and took off.
Not to be out done I did the same and once again to their surprise I was right next to them. This game of cat and mouse continued for another few minutes until i got bored and headed off down a little lane on the right.
My knees where starting to ache a little after all the pumping to keep up but I was quite pleased with myself and proud of my little bike It didn't let me down.

The begining

There is nothing like getting out there in the fresh air, Feeling the cool breaze on your face as you whiz down country lanes on a bike.
Cycling is the greener way to travel it's inexpensive and you feel so much better knowing that you powered your own journey.
Getting started couldn't be easier all you need is a good road worthy bike, A helmet and the dertermination to give it a go.
I was a late comer to the world of two wheels but now it is second nature.
My bike of choice at the moment is a " Probike Escape" Mountain bike. Some people say that mountain bikes aren't suited for road riding because they are too heavy etc. But for where i live its ideal as the roads have quite a few potholes and are often flooded or muddy, So the grip that mountain tyres offer is most certainly needed.
I have already completed a few day trips this year and this blog is basically going to be my experiances be they good or bad.
I will also offer some maintence and equipment help and support along the way. And hopefully will learn more aswell.
So until the next time- Have fun on two wheels, Live to ride and ride to live and remember safety first!