by Howard Schneider
During my first year of graduate school at the University of Minnesota (1967-68) I commuted all winter, for a short distance to campus, on my 3-speed … didn’t see but a few other cyclists during those long, cold, snowy months. Now fast forward to 2014. Being retired for three years, I decided to ride my bike again in the winter.

view-of-mountains-near-Bucerias

I had a really good plan! To ride a few times during my stay from mid-November to early December in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. There, I found a bike tour company located just 30 minutes north of Vallarta- Bici Bucerias. The guys were really helpful: advising me on bus transportation, fitting a bike, warning of “topes” (speed bumps), pointing out landmarks, and riding at my pace. So on two different days I did 40+ mile rides.

Biking flat ag land in Mexico

On the first day in a small group we rode from Bucerias to the surrounding agricultural countryside.  I was surprised to find decently paved roads, along with rolling hills and Sierra Madre mountain views.

Our descent back towards-Puerto Vallarta

On the second day, we rode from old Vallarta and its cobblestone streets to hills and a lush jungle landscape south of town. Along with beautiful views of Banderas Bay, I watched carefully for cars along this curvy highway as we had several miles of climbing with 5-6 percent grades. What a great descent and did I mention that both days the temps were in the 80’s!

I am now planning a return visit to undertake a multi-day tour this winter!

Coming into a small Mexican Village with a view-of-mountains near Bucerias, in the background

My advice- if you plan to visit the Banderas Bay area, don’t just enjoy the beaches, sunsets, food, people, and weather. Ride a bike. Bici Bucerias offers single day rides, multi-day tours, and will also custom design your journey. And if you go say “Hola” for me.

To see more on biking in this part of Mexico check out Bici Bucerias website.