Author Archives: Russ Lowthian

Bike Pic April 15, its Good Friday with a sunny summer day memory

Yeah, it’s Good Friday and number 15 of 30 Days of Biking. After your ride why not call a friend and plan a summer bike adventure with the new MN Bike Guide. Here in the archives, we found this bike pic of a biker chick pedaling the country roads on an invigorating ride.

Get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors and your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends in one of Minnesota’s HaveFunBiking Destinations. And now, check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Now rolling through our 18th year as a bike tourism media, enjoy! As we pedal forward, our goal is to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places for you to ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Include a brief caption (for each) of who is in the photo (if you know) and where the pic was shot? Photo(s) should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide or larger to be considered. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continue to encourage more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly as we enter into our 13th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Remember, bookmark HaveFunBiking.com on your cell phone and find your next adventure at your fingertips! Please share our pics with your friends, and don’t forget to smile. We may be around the corner with one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun. You could be in one of our next Pic of the Day.

Have a great day with a safe, and memorable year ahead!

Bike Pic April 07, MTB trails may be drying out for 30 Days of Biking

This bike pic Thursday, as we enter the seventh day of 30 Days of Biking, rumor has it that some mountain bike trails are drying out and may be open this weekend. To make sure your favorite trail is ready, check with the local parks or MORC for further details.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Have a great day with a safe, and memorable year ahead!

The 2nd day of the electric bike expo or E-bike Challenge

This Ice Cream Smiles Sunday it’s the 2nd day of the electric bike expo or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis, Enjoy the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown pictures

From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!

The electric bike expo or E-bike Challenge is here

It’s Saturday and the Electric Bike Expo or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis begins today, Have fun and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track this weekend.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo pictures

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!

Electric bike expo countdown, 1 day until the E-bike Challenge

It’s no April Fool’s, this Friday it’s the start of 30-Days of Biking and 1-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!

Cycling tips on driving your bike in inclement weather

by Personal Injury Help

Don’t let poor weather conditions stop you from biking. Cycling is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, and when appropriately planned, it can be a great activity year-round! With spring around the corner, here are some tips for staying safe. Especially when Mother Nature throws a wrench in your plans on that next bike adventure.

Inclement weather and the rain

Lighten up

Stay visible by using both headlights and taillight and wearing clothes motorists can see.

Visibility is the key, along with staying dry. It is harder for motorists and pedestrians to see you when it’s raining out. You can wear a reflective and fluorescent vest to stand out and attach reflectors to both your bicycle and helmet (which you should always wear!). Flashing lights on the front of your bike and your saddle are also very eye-catching in the rain.

Avoid non-porous surfaces

Driving your bike on brick, metal, or wood surfaces becomes very slippery when wet. Try to avoid traveling over these surfaces when raining. If you must ride on these smooth exteriors, do so without turning your handlebars to prevent skidding and slow down.

Dress for the temperature

In inclement weather and rain, when cycling, wear a light wicking layer under your rain gear and have a dry layer tucked away if you become wet.

In inclement weather, when cycling, wear a light wicking layer under your rain gear and have a dry layer tucked away if you become wet.

It is tempting to bundle up with multiple layers when you’re cycling in the rain with the hopes of preventing the water from soaking through your clothing to you. Unfortunately, what will probably happen, all your layers will become wet from sweat, and you’ll be stuck wearing multiple layers of wet clothing. When it’s raining out, dress according to the temperature outside, not the volume of rain. If you don’t have any waterproof clothing, a very thin poncho or large trash bag with holes for arms and head to slip through can do wonders.

Inclement weather and the snow

Bikes with low tire pressure offer more stability on slippery roads. Adding studs to the bikes tires adds more control.

Bikes with low tire pressure offer more stability on slippery roads. Adding studs to the tires of the bike adds more control.

Slow down—it’ll take twice as long to stop in the snow than in clear conditions. When approaching stop signs or intersections, give yourself plenty of room to prevent and avoid skidding.

Use fenders—when you put fenders on your bicycle, you not only stop snow from splashing all over yourself and your bike but also keep your cycling neighbors day. A win-win!

Use an old mountain bike—fat tire bicycles are great, especially when it snows or is icy. If you have an old mountain bike gathering dust in your garage, it’s often an excellent and cost-effective way to get outside when you don’t want to use your regular bike. You can also buy winter bike tires with studs if you’re so inclined.

Wet weather and the heat

In hot weather stay hydrated by taking a few sips of water every few miles.

In hot weather, stay hydrated by taking a few sips of water every couple of miles.

Get acclimated, mainly if you are used to going 15-mile, and the temperature suddenly jumps up into the 90s. Add higher humidity to the equation, and it’s not safe to expect to take the same route in the same timeframe. It can take weeks to get used to cycling at high temperatures, so try taking it easy for a while to get used to the heat.

Stay hydrated—a 150-pound cyclist will need to drink at least one 16-ounce bottle of water per hour. Plus a glass of water about 45 minutes before leaving. If you’re heavier or riding a challenging route, you could need up to four bottles per hour.

Stay loose—you’ll want to wear loose clothing and keep you cool when you’re sweating. Avoid dark colors, but more importantly, avoid something heavy and form-fitting.

This article was created by Personal Injury Help (www.personalinjury-law.com), an organization dedicated to providing the public with information about personal injury and safety information. Nothing in this article should be construed as legal advice, and it is intended for informational use only. Review your local cycling ordinances to ensure you ride safely and legally!

Bike around Hutchinson with its hometown charm

by Andrew Ellis

As tourism opportunities open up again, I wanted to revisit Hutchinson, MN, from their map on pages 46-47 in the MN Bike/Hike Guide. A bike-friendly community with a hometown feel and small-town charm this community is worth checking out. A short drive west of the Twin Cities, it’s one of those areas where it’s easy to lose track of time as you enjoy all the fresh air. Arriving in town, enjoy pedaling around rather than driving your car when visiting. Enjoy several biking and hiking options around lakes and parks in the area for your recreational pleasure. You will have no trouble creating some new memories while riding your bike in Hutch.

Riding the Luce Line Trail through Hutchinson on the Jaycee’s Water Carnival Ride.

Aside from riding the mountain bike trails north of town or touring the countryside, you will find many more outdoor adventures here than you can cover in one day. Besides, you can immerse yourself in the local arts. Spend some time learning about the town’s history. Or, if you are looking for a unique place to eat or a gift to take home, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for your visit here.

Minnesota’s hometown feel is in bike-friendly Hutchinson

Located a little over an hour from the Twin Cities, the community here is also known as ‘Minnesota’s Hometown.’ It’s a great place to escape the road-rage-inducing atmosphere of the big city. Here you can ride the Luce Line State Trail to clear your mind and let the calm country scenery work its magic.

When it comes time to take a break from pedaling, there is no shortage of attractions to keep your adventure moving forward. Hutch has its share of one-of-a-kind eateries, and if you’re looking for some more action outside, you can try your hand at some paintball.

Nothing is better than McCormick’s Family Restaurant in Hutchinson to start your day and plan your ride. Voted the number one place for Eggs Benedict in Minnesota, their pancakes and waffles are good too.

Riding opportunities in and around Hutchinson

It’s easy to get out to Stahls Lake Park from Hutchinson.

Like many small towns in Minnesota, pedaling around isn’t difficult. Here in Hutchinson, there is one big trail system, that takes you beyond the town limits. In fact, you can ride the trail all the way to the Twin Cities. And, if you’re up for the challenges, you will find a few mountain biking opportunities.

The Luce Line State Trail

The Luce Line State Trail stretches 63 miles (from Plymouth to Cosmos) and is a popular attraction for bikers, hikers, snowmobilers, and equestrian enthusiasts. The paved trail includes about 21 miles from the west Carver County line, through Hutchinson, to the west McLeod County line. To learn more about the Luce Line, go to www.luceline.com.

Mountain Biking

Tartan Park is located in Hutchinson and is a skills park that is perfect for beginners to advanced mountain bikers.

Tartan Park is located in Hutchinson and is a perfect skill park for beginners to advanced mountain bikers.

Those wishing for some off-road adventures, you are in luck. Thanks to the Hutchinson Area Mountain Bike Association, there are two tracks within reach: Tartan Terrain Park and Stahls Lake Park. Tartan Park is located within the town limits and is a skills park that caters to beginners and advanced. If you want to venture outside the town limits to Stahl’s Lake Park, there’s a nice single-track that caters to all experience levels. Two double-track loops range from .5 miles to 1 mile long. One single-track loop is over 2 miles.

Road Biking Opportunities

Like many of Minnesota’s smaller communities, navigating the area on your bike couldn’t be easier. The roads here allow you to see the beautiful scenery, perfect for your next Instagram post. You can also use the city streets and trails to explore the area’s parks, shops, and more.

Come, enjoy the bike-friendly fun in Minnesota’s ‘hometown feel’ of fun.

For more information on playing or staying in a community with Minnesota’s hometown feel. Check out our HaveFunBiking, At-a-Glance Hutchinson article for your next bike adventure. For places to stay and campgrounds, see Explore Hutchinson.

Electric bike expo countdown, 2 days until the E-bike Challenge

This Thursday, 2-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!

Electric bike expo countdown, 3-days until the E-bike Challenge

This Wednesday, 3-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!

Electric bike expo countdown, 4-days until the E-bike Challenge

This Monday, 4-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.

Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture

So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?

Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade

Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area

Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo

This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!

Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!