Riding Austin Trails - Town/Lady Bird Lake
No matter what time of year it is in Austin, it’s always a good time to hit the trail. Austin’s trails can unfold into an adventure for any rider, from beginner to advanced. If willing to embark on the thrill of its winding scenery and natural wonderment, the trail can be a welcomed escape from daily stress. Considering myself as an amateur trail rider and full-time commuter, I have often wondered if my trail etiquette was up to snuff. So, I decided to take my questions to the pros.
Luckily I had the pleasure of interviewing cool-customer Chris Carter of Austin’s own Bicycle Sport Shop (located on South Lamar and Barton Springs) to gain his perspective on riding, in addition to some useful tips for those just starting out on how to enjoy the thrill of the trail, safely.
What are some of your own personal tips for riding the Town/Lady Bird Lake trail?
CHRIS: The Lady Bird Lake Trail is for those individuals who are looking for a scenic tour around Austin’s crown jewel without the fear of road traffic or the technical nature of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, where a mountain bike is required. If serene, shaded riding sounds like you, then a “hybrid” bike would be our choice and will surely make for a more enjoyable ride. A hybrid has a wider tire with a small amount of tread, like a road bike, but a more upright riding position, like a mountain bike. Add a helmet and a bell to let folks know you’re coming, and you’ll be ready to ride around Lady Bird Lake.
Can you recommend other great spots for local trail rides?
CHRIS: If you are looking for a little more adventurous riding, then Austin has plenty of options. Walnut Creek Park, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Emma Long Park, or Pace Bend Park all offer trails for the wild at heart. A nice suspension bike or lightweight 29er hard tail would be a good option at those spots. Calmer, quieter riding can be had at the Veloway, a 3.1 mile paved loop inSouthwest Austin that is closed to cars. As bikes are as unique as riders, you’ll want to talk to your friends who ride regularly as well as one of our sales team members for information on what might be best for you.
What is your favorite part of Austin to ride in?
CHRIS: Whether you ride off road or on, there are so many great places to enjoy the city. For a nice lunch (road) ride my personal favorite is Hill’s Loop, named after our owner, which winds you through some of Austin’s most scenic and historic neighborhoods and finishes with a ride down Congress Avenue.
Would you recommend riding in a group to beginner cyclists? Are there local groups that you would recommend? If so which one(s)?
CHRIS: Yes, I would recommend group rides. Some of the best times I’ve had on a bike have been rides with groups. Whether it was a small group of friends, a weekend club ride or a charity ride like the Real Ale Ride or Wurst Ride, cycling in numbers can be a blast. Bicycle Sport Shop hosts a Saturday road ride from our North Austin location at 10947 Research Blvd. and T3 – Austin Tri Team hosts rides from our Central store at 517 s. Lamar. More details at http://www.bicyclesportshop.com.
For folks interested in road riding, if you have never ridden in a group or are feeling a little timid, the guys at Austin Cycle Camp will be more than willing to help you overcome your group ride anxiety. And you can also find folks to ride with through organizations like the Austin Cycling Association.
And if you’re looking for a specific ride to jump in on, we invite everyone to join us for our Annual Chipotle Ride on July 17th, sponsored by Chipotle and Real Ale Brewing Company. Enjoy a scenic ride in North Austin from our new Parmer store at 9900 W. Parmer Lane then refuel on free Chipotle Burritos and enjoy some cold Real Ale beer. Details on this ride will be posted on our website soon.
Can you please describe a few of the tips you would give to new cyclists or those interested in starting? (from buying to riding safely)
CHRIS: If you are new to cycling, my first recommendation would be to write a short paragraph on why you want to ride, where you will be riding and list any goals you might have. Are you looking to ride to work, experience the outdoors, improve your fitness, or compete in your first road race or triathlon. Knowing what you’re looking to get out of your cycling experience will help your salesperson understand which product will best suit your needs. Similarly, don’t think that just because you’re new to the sport that you shouldn’t get the nicer bike or the extra gear. All of the accessories and clothing that you see folks using and wearing go to improving the cycling experience, whatever the terrain!
So, saddle up and ride…your bike, and if feeling the least bit ambitious next weekend, grab a partner for a pedal-powered adventure including water obstacles along the way! Registration for the Urban Assault Ride is open till June 25th. The race is set to take place Sunday, June 27th. For more info visit: http://www.urbanassaultride.com/austin or bookmark the Bicycle Sport Shop event page to stay up-to-date on local biking events.
Bicycle Sport Shop located on S. Lamar
Austin Bike Trail Map-courtesy of Austin American Statesman
