More bicycles than ever hit the trail

FOR THE CUMBERLAND TIMES-NEWS

CUMBERLAND — Established in 1956 and promoted by the American League of Bicyclists, May is National Bike Month and is celebrated across the country. Western Maryland Wheelmen President Valerie Van Hollen said that more individuals are bicycling than ever before.

“One factor is that during the pandemic, many people took up bicycling as a safe outdoor activity. Another factor is that many more kinds of bikes are available than ever before. If road biking is not for you, a gravel bike might suit for riding the Great Allegheny Passage. Others choose recumbents or e-bikes to individualize the riding experience,” she said.

Doug Schwab and Betsey Hurwitz- Schwab rode together for years until Doug’s back surgery changed the game. Luckily, 15 years ago, he was introduced to a recumbent bike. This type of bike positions the rider closer to the ground and provides back support. “A friend had one for me to try and I took to it right away,” he said.

Betsey found a solution with an e-bike. An e-bike has an integrated electrical motor that provides pedal assist that is only activated when the pedals are already in motion. The rider provides most of the power but gets a boost when needed. “Initially I had a little thought about being a purist. But since I have never been a strong biker and ended up hating riding because I couldn’t keep up or go very far unless we were riding on a flat. Now, on an e-bike I can keep up and I can do hills and I am loving being out on a bike again,” she said.

Another recumbent user, Spencer Gear, rides from Cumberland to Pittsburgh each year. “I love my wheelbase RANS Stratus XL recumbent. It’s incredibly comfortable for long rides on your arms and hands, but especially on your rear end. It’s very fast except on uphills. The view is much better than on a normal bike. The only downside of my particular bike is that it can be a bit of a hassle to transport because it is 7 feet long, but newer ones are often foldable,” he said.

Regardless of the bike you choose, or where you choose to ride, safety is a must. A helmet saves lives. Many riders mistakenly think they don’t need a helmet for riding the Great Allegheny Passage or C&O Canal towpath. Accidents can happen anywhere and even to experienced riders. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 85%.

The Western Maryland Wheelmen hosts a regular ride each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. beginning at Canal Place and heading west. “The group determines the pace and the distance,” said member Susan Scarpelli. “This ride is a no-pressure, easy way to get out there. Those who show up plan the ride. This is perfect for beginners but experienced riders enjoy themselves as well. It’s a great way to meet people.”

The Great Allegheny Passage begins at Canal Place and goes to Pittsburgh. It is a rail trail promoted by Mountain Maryland Trails.

The Tuesday rides are important for the Western Maryland Wheelmen to promote the trail, the club and riding. Anyone who wants to ride can show up, knowing there will be others to support them and keep them company. For more information, contact Van Hollen at 240727-3533.

Western Maryland Wheelmen member Spencer Gear rides from Cumberland to Pittsburgh each year on his recumbent bike on the Great Allegheny Passage.

Submitted Photo