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Choosing the Perfect Ride: Exploring Your Bicycle Options
Posted by Covered Living on
4/19/23
Bicycling is an excellent form of exercise and an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors. However, given the multitude of bicycles available, it can be challenging to determine which one is best suited to your needs. In this article, we will delve into some of the most popular types of bikes and their intended uses so that you can select the ideal bike for your purposes.
1) Road Bikes
Road bikes are designed for speed and efficiency on paved roads. They feature lightweight frames and narrow tires, making them ideal for long-distance rides and racing. Additionally, road bikes possess drop handlebars that enable you to change hand positions and reduce wind resistance. If you are interested in cycling for fitness or to traverse long distances quickly, a road bike is the optimal choice.
Road bikes have several subcategories, including endurance bikes that offer a more upright riding position and wider tires than traditional road bikes, making them more comfortable for longer rides. On the other hand, aero bikes feature a streamlined design that reduces wind resistance, resulting in increased speed.
2) Mountain Bicycles
Mountain bikes are intended for off-road terrain. They feature wide tires and suspension systems that provide stability and comfort on rocky or bumpy terrain. They also possess flat handlebars that enable you to maintain a more upright riding position, which provides better control on technical trails. If you are interested in exploring the outdoors and hitting the trails, a mountain bike is the ideal choice.
Mountain bikes have several subcategories, including cross-country (XC) bikes that are designed for racing on smooth trails, with a lightweight frame and narrow tires. Trail bikes, on the other hand, are suited to a variety of terrain and feature wider tires and more suspension than XC bikes. Meanwhile, enduro bikes are intended for aggressive riding on steep and technical terrain and possess even more suspension than trail bikes.
3) Hybrid Bicycles
Hybrid bikes combine elements of both road and mountain bikes, possessing wider tires than road bikes and a more upright riding position than mountain bikes, making them versatile and comfortable for a variety of terrains. They also possess flat handlebars, providing better control and visibility than drop handlebars. If you are seeking a bike that can handle city streets and dirt paths, a hybrid bike is the perfect choice.
Hybrid bikes also have subcategories, including city bikes that are designed for commuting and possess features such as fenders and racks for carrying cargo. Comfort bikes are intended for leisurely rides and possess a more relaxed riding position and wider seats. Fitness bikes, also known as hybrid bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years as they are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities such as commuting, leisurely rides, and even light off-road adventures.
4) Cruiser Bicycles
Cruiser bikes are intended for leisurely rides and casual cruising. They feature wide tires, comfortable seats, and upright handlebars, making them ideal for riding around town or along the beach. Cruiser bikes often possess features such as baskets or racks for carrying cargo. If you are seeking a comfortable and stylish bike, a cruiser bike is a perfect option.
5) Folding Bicycles
Folding bikes are compact and easy to store, making them ideal for commuters or individuals with limited storage space. They can be quickly folded and carried on public transportation or stored in a small apartment. Folding bikes also possess smaller wheels and a more upright riding position than other types of bikes. If you are seeking a portable and easy-to-store bike, a folding bike is an excellent option.
6) Electric Bicycles
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, feature an electric motor that assists with pedaling, making them perfect for individuals who want to ride longer distances or tackle hilly terrain without getting exhausted. E-bikes come in various styles, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. They are also a great option for those who wish to reduce their carbon footprint and get outside.
7) Touring Bicycles
Touring bikes are designed for long-distance rides, typically over several days or weeks. They have a sturdy frame, wider tires, and a comfortable saddle, making them perfect for carrying heavy loads and spending long hours in the saddle. Touring bikes also often have drop handlebars for better aerodynamics and more hand positions. If you're looking to go on a bike tour or take a long-distance bike trip, a touring bike is the right choice for you.
8) Recumbent Bicycles
Recumbent bikes are designed for riders who want a comfortable, laid-back riding position. They have a reclined seat and pedals in front of the rider, rather than below them, which can be more comfortable for some riders. Recumbent bikes also often have wider tires and a longer wheelbase, which provides stability and comfort. If you're looking for a bike that's easy on your back and joints, a recumbent bike may be the right choice for you.
9) Tandem Bikes
Tandem bikes are designed for two riders and have two seats, two sets of pedals, and a single frame. Tandem bikes are perfect for couples or friends who want to ride together and share the workload. Tandem bikes also often have wider tires and a longer wheelbase, which provides stability and comfort. If you're looking for a bike that allows you to ride with a partner, a tandem bike may be the right choice for you.
No matter what type of bike you choose, an added benefit is biking is a great form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the main benefits of biking for your health:
- Improved cardiovascular health: Biking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise that can improve your heart health by strengthening your heart and lungs. Regular cycling can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
- Weight loss and management: Biking is a great way to burn calories and lose weight. It is an effective way to increase your metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.
- Increased muscle strength and endurance: Biking can help build muscle strength and endurance in your legs, core, and back. It is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints, making it a great option for people of all ages and fitness levels.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Cycling can help reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, which are the body's natural feel-good chemicals. It can also provide a sense of freedom and boost your mood.
- Improved balance and coordination: Biking requires balance and coordination, which can improve with regular practice. It can also help prevent falls and improve overall physical function.
- Better sleep: Regular biking can help you sleep better by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
In Conclusion: With so many different types of bikes available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. By considering the terrain you'll be riding on, your riding style, and your comfort preferences, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect bike for you. Whether you're looking for speed and efficiency on paved roads, stability and comfort on off-road trails, or a comfortable and stylish cruiser for leisurely rides, there's a bike out there that's perfect for you.
Click to check out our dual bike cover to protect your bike from debris! Dual Bike Cover
Read more
Choosing the Perfect Ride: Exploring Your Bicycle Options
Posted by Covered Living on
4/19/23
Bicycling is an excellent form of exercise and an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors. However, given the multitude of bicycles available, it can be challenging to determine which one is best suited to your needs. In this article, we will delve into some of the most popular types of bikes and their intended uses so that you can select the ideal bike for your purposes.
1) Road Bikes
Road bikes are designed for speed and efficiency on paved roads. They feature lightweight frames and narrow tires, making them ideal for long-distance rides and racing. Additionally, road bikes possess drop handlebars that enable you to change hand positions and reduce wind resistance. If you are interested in cycling for fitness or to traverse long distances quickly, a road bike is the optimal choice.
Road bikes have several subcategories, including endurance bikes that offer a more upright riding position and wider tires than traditional road bikes, making them more comfortable for longer rides. On the other hand, aero bikes feature a streamlined design that reduces wind resistance, resulting in increased speed.
2) Mountain Bicycles
Mountain bikes are intended for off-road terrain. They feature wide tires and suspension systems that provide stability and comfort on rocky or bumpy terrain. They also possess flat handlebars that enable you to maintain a more upright riding position, which provides better control on technical trails. If you are interested in exploring the outdoors and hitting the trails, a mountain bike is the ideal choice.
Mountain bikes have several subcategories, including cross-country (XC) bikes that are designed for racing on smooth trails, with a lightweight frame and narrow tires. Trail bikes, on the other hand, are suited to a variety of terrain and feature wider tires and more suspension than XC bikes. Meanwhile, enduro bikes are intended for aggressive riding on steep and technical terrain and possess even more suspension than trail bikes.
3) Hybrid Bicycles
Hybrid bikes combine elements of both road and mountain bikes, possessing wider tires than road bikes and a more upright riding position than mountain bikes, making them versatile and comfortable for a variety of terrains. They also possess flat handlebars, providing better control and visibility than drop handlebars. If you are seeking a bike that can handle city streets and dirt paths, a hybrid bike is the perfect choice.
Hybrid bikes also have subcategories, including city bikes that are designed for commuting and possess features such as fenders and racks for carrying cargo. Comfort bikes are intended for leisurely rides and possess a more relaxed riding position and wider seats. Fitness bikes, also known as hybrid bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years as they are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities such as commuting, leisurely rides, and even light off-road adventures.
4) Cruiser Bicycles
Cruiser bikes are intended for leisurely rides and casual cruising. They feature wide tires, comfortable seats, and upright handlebars, making them ideal for riding around town or along the beach. Cruiser bikes often possess features such as baskets or racks for carrying cargo. If you are seeking a comfortable and stylish bike, a cruiser bike is a perfect option.
5) Folding Bicycles
Folding bikes are compact and easy to store, making them ideal for commuters or individuals with limited storage space. They can be quickly folded and carried on public transportation or stored in a small apartment. Folding bikes also possess smaller wheels and a more upright riding position than other types of bikes. If you are seeking a portable and easy-to-store bike, a folding bike is an excellent option.
6) Electric Bicycles
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, feature an electric motor that assists with pedaling, making them perfect for individuals who want to ride longer distances or tackle hilly terrain without getting exhausted. E-bikes come in various styles, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. They are also a great option for those who wish to reduce their carbon footprint and get outside.
7) Touring Bicycles
Touring bikes are designed for long-distance rides, typically over several days or weeks. They have a sturdy frame, wider tires, and a comfortable saddle, making them perfect for carrying heavy loads and spending long hours in the saddle. Touring bikes also often have drop handlebars for better aerodynamics and more hand positions. If you're looking to go on a bike tour or take a long-distance bike trip, a touring bike is the right choice for you.
8) Recumbent Bicycles
Recumbent bikes are designed for riders who want a comfortable, laid-back riding position. They have a reclined seat and pedals in front of the rider, rather than below them, which can be more comfortable for some riders. Recumbent bikes also often have wider tires and a longer wheelbase, which provides stability and comfort. If you're looking for a bike that's easy on your back and joints, a recumbent bike may be the right choice for you.
9) Tandem Bikes
Tandem bikes are designed for two riders and have two seats, two sets of pedals, and a single frame. Tandem bikes are perfect for couples or friends who want to ride together and share the workload. Tandem bikes also often have wider tires and a longer wheelbase, which provides stability and comfort. If you're looking for a bike that allows you to ride with a partner, a tandem bike may be the right choice for you.
No matter what type of bike you choose, an added benefit is biking is a great form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the main benefits of biking for your health:
- Improved cardiovascular health: Biking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise that can improve your heart health by strengthening your heart and lungs. Regular cycling can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
- Weight loss and management: Biking is a great way to burn calories and lose weight. It is an effective way to increase your metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.
- Increased muscle strength and endurance: Biking can help build muscle strength and endurance in your legs, core, and back. It is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints, making it a great option for people of all ages and fitness levels.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Cycling can help reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, which are the body's natural feel-good chemicals. It can also provide a sense of freedom and boost your mood.
- Improved balance and coordination: Biking requires balance and coordination, which can improve with regular practice. It can also help prevent falls and improve overall physical function.
- Better sleep: Regular biking can help you sleep better by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
In Conclusion: With so many different types of bikes available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. By considering the terrain you'll be riding on, your riding style, and your comfort preferences, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect bike for you. Whether you're looking for speed and efficiency on paved roads, stability and comfort on off-road trails, or a comfortable and stylish cruiser for leisurely rides, there's a bike out there that's perfect for you.
Click to check out our dual bike cover to protect your bike from debris! Dual Bike Cover
Read more
Refresh Your Outdoor Space with Replacement Umbrella Canopies
Posted by Covered Living on
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Refresh Your Outdoor Space with Replacement Umbrella Canopies
Posted by Covered Living on
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Top 5 Road-Trip Destinations To Check Out This Summer
Posted by Covered Living on
Top Road Trips For The Summer
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Top 5 Road-Trip Destinations To Check Out This Summer
Posted by Covered Living on
Three Must Haves for Post-Holiday Organization
Posted by Sara Ramsey on
The holidays are a wonderful yet crazy time. My family's favorite part? Putting out all of our holiday decorations. And that's the easy and fun part. Finding my daughter's pre-school macaroni ornament from years ago, sipping on some hot chocolate (admittingly adding a little Irish Cream and extra marshmallows to my cup) and getting into the holiday spirit. But the taking down and storing of all your decorations, now that's always a challenge! So what are some simple post holiday organization tips I can offer from my years of personal experience? We're going to talk about three of the top holiday storage cover must haves for less stress and better holiday organization 1. Christmas Tree Bag 2. Garment Bag and 3. Storage Shelving Rack Covers.
1. Christmas Tree Bag
While nothing beats the smell and hominess of a fresh live Christmas tree, artificial trees are becoming more popular these days. Artificial trees are environmentally, economically friendly and create less of a mess without those pesky pine needles magically popping up everywhere and stabbing our feet. So how can you keep your artificial Christmas tree investment safe and dirt free? With a Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag. Easily dis-assemble and place your Christmas tree in a secure rolling storage bag and know your artificial tree will be safe all year round.
2. Garment Bag
The holidays are your chance to show off your own style's sparkle and shine! It's not every day you get to wear a dress full of crystals and bows or your best tailored tuxedo. Last year, I splurged a gorgeous colorful sequin dress to shock everyone at my work holiday party and only got to wear it one time but couldn't just get rid of it. I knew there would be future parties and holidays where that dress would be perfect. You don't want to just store your best dress wear in the attic or back of your closet with no protection from moths, rodents and dust. A garment bag is the best way to ensure that outfit you purchased for special occasions and holiday parties will be safe and clean for your next event.
3. Storage Shelving Rack Cover
Are you extra organized, have tons of items and already have the perfect storage rack to keep your holiday decorations? You've already found the perfect place to store your keepsakes but did you remember to keep them covered? If not, it's never too late to save your things! Storage shelving rack covers come in all sizes and colors to match the decor of your garage, kitchen or storage shed! I tend to half organize. Everything has a place, but it's not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing way to organize. Like in my kitchen, I love to cook, have tons and pots and pans and blenders, but not enough cabinet space. So I purchase a wire shelf storage rack, placed all my small appliances and cookware on it then covered it with a clean looking storage shelving rack cover to not add to the mess that is constantly my kitchen. And when it comes to long term storing, nothing is worse than getting excited for the time to decorate only to find dead bugs, caked on dirt or worse, tiny rodents ate through your decorations! Make sure you protect those heirlooms, snow globes and wreaths with the perfect storage shelving rack cover.
Shop this Blog:
Read more
Three Must Haves for Post-Holiday Organization
Posted by Sara Ramsey on
The holidays are a wonderful yet crazy time. My family's favorite part? Putting out all of our holiday decorations. And that's the easy and fun part. Finding my daughter's pre-school macaroni ornament from years ago, sipping on some hot chocolate (admittingly adding a little Irish Cream and extra marshmallows to my cup) and getting into the holiday spirit. But the taking down and storing of all your decorations, now that's always a challenge! So what are some simple post holiday organization tips I can offer from my years of personal experience? We're going to talk about three of the top holiday storage cover must haves for less stress and better holiday organization 1. Christmas Tree Bag 2. Garment Bag and 3. Storage Shelving Rack Covers.
1. Christmas Tree Bag
While nothing beats the smell and hominess of a fresh live Christmas tree, artificial trees are becoming more popular these days. Artificial trees are environmentally, economically friendly and create less of a mess without those pesky pine needles magically popping up everywhere and stabbing our feet. So how can you keep your artificial Christmas tree investment safe and dirt free? With a Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag. Easily dis-assemble and place your Christmas tree in a secure rolling storage bag and know your artificial tree will be safe all year round.
2. Garment Bag
The holidays are your chance to show off your own style's sparkle and shine! It's not every day you get to wear a dress full of crystals and bows or your best tailored tuxedo. Last year, I splurged a gorgeous colorful sequin dress to shock everyone at my work holiday party and only got to wear it one time but couldn't just get rid of it. I knew there would be future parties and holidays where that dress would be perfect. You don't want to just store your best dress wear in the attic or back of your closet with no protection from moths, rodents and dust. A garment bag is the best way to ensure that outfit you purchased for special occasions and holiday parties will be safe and clean for your next event.
3. Storage Shelving Rack Cover
Are you extra organized, have tons of items and already have the perfect storage rack to keep your holiday decorations? You've already found the perfect place to store your keepsakes but did you remember to keep them covered? If not, it's never too late to save your things! Storage shelving rack covers come in all sizes and colors to match the decor of your garage, kitchen or storage shed! I tend to half organize. Everything has a place, but it's not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing way to organize. Like in my kitchen, I love to cook, have tons and pots and pans and blenders, but not enough cabinet space. So I purchase a wire shelf storage rack, placed all my small appliances and cookware on it then covered it with a clean looking storage shelving rack cover to not add to the mess that is constantly my kitchen. And when it comes to long term storing, nothing is worse than getting excited for the time to decorate only to find dead bugs, caked on dirt or worse, tiny rodents ate through your decorations! Make sure you protect those heirlooms, snow globes and wreaths with the perfect storage shelving rack cover.
Shop this Blog:
Read more
Falling Leaves, Fall Activities
Posted by Sara Ramsey on
Fall is a beautiful time of year. The air is starting to get cooler, leaves are turning from bright green to vibrant yellow and orange, people are trading in tank tops and flip flops for warm jackets and cozy slippers. For most, Fall is the perfect period between the hot Summer sun and the frosty snow biting at your finger tips. It's the beginning of apple picking, firewood chopping and pumpkin everything. State to state, family to family and person to person, everyone celebrates this season in their own way and traditions. Or perhaps you're looking for a new activity to add to your list?
Here are 5 wonderful Fall activities to consider:
1. Host a football party
The months between September and February can be loud! People cheering for their favorite football team, gathering around friends and family, teammates and rivals. What a great reason to kick off the season of togetherness than hosting your own football party. Not only is it more fun to yell at that fumble or touchdown with others, but a good excuse to eat game day snacks and cheers your favorite beverage. And as always, be safe!
2. Homemade hot chocolate
Time to switch from ice cold chocolate milk to mini marshmallows and rich hot cocoa. You don't have to be a little kid to enjoy a delicious cup with extra whipped cream. From an easy push of a button on your coffee maker to stirring up your own batch, hot chocolate is a yummy go to. Need some new hand-picked recipes? We got you covered.
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20211/creamy-hot-cocoa/
https://www.wellplated.com/french-hot-chocolate/
https://detoxinista.com/baby-its-cold-outside/#wprm-recipe-container-23399
3. Scrapbooking
From around the age of 8, scrapbooking has always been fascinating to me. Collecting rubber stamps, hand-pressing flowers and taking the good old disposable camera to the camera hut only to find out days later that 2 out of the 24 pictures I took of my cat came out without a blur or finger in front of it. Nowadays, my scrapbooking is a little more refined. I went from scratch and sniff stickers collected at school to neat 3D destination stickers and inspirational quotes. It's a great hobby to keep you busy but even better? The perfect sentimental gift for your loved ones and teachers!
4. Begin a "Gratitude Journal"
Holidays can be a good time of year to begin thinking about gratitude and reflecting on your year so far. Journaling helps you channel thoughts, goals and can be very therapeutic. Beginning a gratitude journal can help in so many ways including preparing for the new year to come. It's peaceful, meaningful and a relaxing way to spend some quality time with yourself.
5. Backyard camping
Sometimes you want to getaway without the hassle of getting away. One great solution? Backyard campout! This is a wonderful idea for a family, surprise date night or even just a retreat for you, yourself and you. Can't build a fire? Tell stories around the flashlight. Don't have a tent? Sheets and a blanket will do just fine. Pack some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, hot cocoa and enjoy the nature of your backyard.
Here at Covered Living we are family and goal oriented. We hope the new season brings you joy, no matter how you spend it!
Read more
Falling Leaves, Fall Activities
Posted by Sara Ramsey on
Fall is a beautiful time of year. The air is starting to get cooler, leaves are turning from bright green to vibrant yellow and orange, people are trading in tank tops and flip flops for warm jackets and cozy slippers. For most, Fall is the perfect period between the hot Summer sun and the frosty snow biting at your finger tips. It's the beginning of apple picking, firewood chopping and pumpkin everything. State to state, family to family and person to person, everyone celebrates this season in their own way and traditions. Or perhaps you're looking for a new activity to add to your list?
Here are 5 wonderful Fall activities to consider:
1. Host a football party
The months between September and February can be loud! People cheering for their favorite football team, gathering around friends and family, teammates and rivals. What a great reason to kick off the season of togetherness than hosting your own football party. Not only is it more fun to yell at that fumble or touchdown with others, but a good excuse to eat game day snacks and cheers your favorite beverage. And as always, be safe!
2. Homemade hot chocolate
Time to switch from ice cold chocolate milk to mini marshmallows and rich hot cocoa. You don't have to be a little kid to enjoy a delicious cup with extra whipped cream. From an easy push of a button on your coffee maker to stirring up your own batch, hot chocolate is a yummy go to. Need some new hand-picked recipes? We got you covered.
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20211/creamy-hot-cocoa/
https://www.wellplated.com/french-hot-chocolate/
https://detoxinista.com/baby-its-cold-outside/#wprm-recipe-container-23399
3. Scrapbooking
From around the age of 8, scrapbooking has always been fascinating to me. Collecting rubber stamps, hand-pressing flowers and taking the good old disposable camera to the camera hut only to find out days later that 2 out of the 24 pictures I took of my cat came out without a blur or finger in front of it. Nowadays, my scrapbooking is a little more refined. I went from scratch and sniff stickers collected at school to neat 3D destination stickers and inspirational quotes. It's a great hobby to keep you busy but even better? The perfect sentimental gift for your loved ones and teachers!
4. Begin a "Gratitude Journal"
Holidays can be a good time of year to begin thinking about gratitude and reflecting on your year so far. Journaling helps you channel thoughts, goals and can be very therapeutic. Beginning a gratitude journal can help in so many ways including preparing for the new year to come. It's peaceful, meaningful and a relaxing way to spend some quality time with yourself.
5. Backyard camping
Sometimes you want to getaway without the hassle of getting away. One great solution? Backyard campout! This is a wonderful idea for a family, surprise date night or even just a retreat for you, yourself and you. Can't build a fire? Tell stories around the flashlight. Don't have a tent? Sheets and a blanket will do just fine. Pack some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, hot cocoa and enjoy the nature of your backyard.
Here at Covered Living we are family and goal oriented. We hope the new season brings you joy, no matter how you spend it!