Are you ready for some exercise, getting out, and exploring the countryside? Maybe your bikes are ready, too? The new year has started and we’re looking to plan more cycle rides as the weather improves!

Vignola trail

The first bikerides of the year We have completed two rides so far (yes, in February!) and we’ve tested out the cycle path from Casinalbo to Modena. It was okay, but it was busy in Modena. We met up at the Duomo with our new member, Meredith, and cycled to Manzini station. From there, via cycle paths, we hit the Vignola trail into the countryside (all signposted) with some great views along the way. From Castelnuovo (after a spot of lunch) we headed back to Casinalbo.  Meredith tested out the train from there to Modena and gave it a thumbs up!  Here’s the Kamoot link as a reference.

Great views!

Nathalie and Liz also went on a shorter ride in the Formigine area last week. We don’t have any pictures of that ride, but we did have a nice lunch at Caffè dell’Orologio!

Castelnuovo Piazza

Nathalie and Liz will plan rides as and when they are available. However, please do use the chat to check if anyone local to you is free if there aren’t any planned rides.  Also, just ask if you need details on local rides that we have already completed. We now use Komoot, which is great for route planning.

Merediths sparkly wheels! Very visible in the dark

 

Bike Security Information 

Unfortunately, members will have heard that two members of our group had their bikes stolen last year. One was stolen from an outdoor bike park and one was stolen from locked garage storage. Thank you to Becky, Lena, and others who provided information in the chat on bike locks and security. This was really helpful, so we’re sharing it here as well. In summary, the advice from the police/biking groups for locking your bike is: 

  • Secure your bike frame to the rack or something solid 
  • Use two locks if possible 
  • Remove lights and removable items even the seat if feasible!
  • Further tips on how to lock your bike, you can find here.

That’s all for now! Watch this space, as Nathalie wants to do a day trip to cycle round Mantova via train!