BMX bikes usually come with 2, 20 inch wheels; that is 6 to 7 inches smaller than the size of the wheels found on the more conventional bicycles. The bike’s frame is focused and implemented around achieving maximum stability and resistance rather than keeping the bike as light as possible. Additionally, BMX bikes include extra features such as special systems that allow an unlimited number of 360 degree revolutions of the steering wheel.

The sport of BMX racing includes racing on sandy or hilly tracks (this is called BMX racing) as wells as stunt riding on wooden ramps / street objects / obstacles (this is called BMX freestyle). BMX races have duration of about 25 to 40 seconds. The speeds vary from 15 mph to 35 mph depending on the conditions of the track as well as the abilities of the riders. On the freestyle part of the sport, it is notable that it has grown far more popular than the racing counterpart.

Starting from California (United States) in the late 60’s, BMX was the most popular way for teenagers to imitate motocross champions. The founder of BMX is called Scot Breithaupt while the motorcycle racing documentary “On Any Sunday” is widely accepted and credited for inspiring the whole movement nationally. Although the sport spread very quickly, it wasn’t until the middle of the decade that the bike constructors started producing real BMX – oriented bikes. Another very important person that needs to be mentioned here is Bob Haro; he is the person who merged BMX and skateboarding tricks together and without him the whole scheme wouldn’t have advanced so far.

Although it is considered to be a men’s sport, there have been times when female participation in the sport reached up to 4%! That’s quite a high number if you consider that nowadays the participation has dropped to 1% in the United States.

Finally, being an extreme sport that BMX is, it’s almost impossible to get involved without getting hurt. Although the damages generally tend not to get more serious than bone-breaking, riders need to always be careful and wear their protection equipment.

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Judging by the name of the bike as well as the manufacturer brand, Mach 1 Pro should definitely have to be a great bike in order to live up to the expectations of the fans. Does the bike come any close to that? Well, the first thing you would notice about this bike is that it is very smooth and light. After riding it for some time you will also discover that it is also very resistant and it loves air stunting! A good feature is TEKTRO brakes; the frame and the tires are not bad either. The bike is pretty similar to GT interceptor but some may find it’s got some paints from GT Vertigo too. The only considerable weakness that you might find on this bike is that it doesn’t come with chain tensors. Other than that, the bike is really good and the price is very affordable.

Jumping on the other side now, Mongoose would have no choice in this stiff competition but to come up with a serious weapon, the Mongoose Brawler. The first things that will catch your eye about this bike are the excellent frame and the front forks. The brakes and the crank are pretty good too. A weakness about this bike is that the other parts (such as sprocket, hub and rims) are not very satisfying. Of course, you can always replace them easily at any time and you will have a really, really good bike. Brawler is a very resistant and maneuverable bike but you might feel a little bit limited while dirt jumping because it tends to be bigger than other bikes you may have been used to.

Don’t be tricked to believe that the winner of the battle is the Mach 1 Pro. Brawler hides a really exciting riding experience and it is the type of bike that has the potential to reach the top with just a few extra replacements. Both bikes are really top of the line products and you should really have a close look and get to ride them for at least a few minutes in order to decide witch one is best for you.

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Some of the very first BMX bicycle builders such as R&R racing products, Webco, RedLine and Mongoose focused on creating bicycles that would be specifically crafted for the sport. Out of the first BMX models, the one produced by Mongoose can be considered as the one that is most similar to the BMX bikes of today; it featured a straight tubed, gusseted frame as well as stronger, reinforced handlebars. Additionally, it had Motomag wheels and longer crank arms than the conventional bikes.

Initially, BMX bike construction was aimed at making a bike witch would be as resistant as possible. However, weight became a serious issue when racing gained popularity. Out of all BMX constructors, R&R Racing created the first 3 pound frame witch not only was lighter but it also was very resistant. Soon, BMX manufacturers would start to use lighter materials such as aluminum and chromium molybdenum for frames; additionally, rims made out of steel and mag wheels where replaced by rims made of aluminum with freewheels and caliper brakes.

Later on, when Freestyle BMX became more popular, BMX bikes went through various additions/changes. Although they originated from racing bikes, they where also equipped with extra places to put the feet on while performing stunts. Additionally, something very important that needed to be considered is that this new era of BMX bikes had to be a lot more resistant than racing bikes. And so, the new BMX bikes oriented at freestyle where a lot more resistant and stronger than those that had been made so far.

Finally, most BMX bikes where equipped with a feature known as ‘Gyro’. This device enabled the steering bar to be rotated by 360 degrees for an unlimited number of revolutions without the brake cables getting tangled.

Nowadays, with the explosion of BMX riding there are many more companies that focus on constructing and improving them. Among others, GT, Haro, MBK, Hoffman bikes, Diamondback and Hutch have established a pretty good reputation in the BMX world.

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Lucky you. Oregon’s coast is perfect for families as well. Those hidden spots put you and the little ones right in the middle of some of the best nature can show off. Then there are the myriad of kid-friendly lodgings, restaurants and towns which pull out the stops for the kidlets or bring out the kid in everyone.

Still, you don’t have to sacrifice the finer things when you bring the kids.

On Oregon’s north coast, the tiny town of Manzanita is endowed with a mysterious, woodsy vibe just above its vast expanse of crystalline beach. Here, the San Dune Inn provides a vast array of freebies like bikes, game equipment, popcorn and movies. Stay at this charming, unassuming place just blocks from the beach and you’ll find stuff for volleyball and other games suitable for the sand, as well as beach balls, bikes and simple sandcastle-making gear like buckets. They have an enormous selection of movies, and their choice of board games is a kick as well. It’s a kid’s dream come true.

It’s also very pet friendly. www.sandune-inn-manzanita.com. 888-368-5163.

Head northward, and you’ll encounter dozens of sandy and rocky beaches perfect for playtime. Drive about 12 miles and you’ll find the ritzy resort town of Cannon Beach. Near a famed Lewis & Clark landmark, Fultano’s Pizza sits and emits wonderful smells of Italian cuisine. With an outdoor patio here, you can still see some of the sights available at the end of Second Street, and enjoy exceptional – even gourmet quality – cuisine at a family pizza joint price.

Fultano’s delivers to local hotels, and they feature slices for lunch. They have a special thin crust recipe that’s especially tasty, crunchy and yet still tender in a way that manages to combine both those latter qualities seamlessly.

There are many of the standbys, as well as gourmet varieties like the Margherita (garlic and herb olive oil, three cheeses, red onion and more), a Greek-themed specialty, a Goat Cheese pizza, and specialties with Teriyaki Chicken, Linguica, BBQ Chicken and a variety of seafood selections. One item features a distinctive sausage with mashed grapes for the sauce, providing a subtle, sweet tang. The sausage is spicy and zippy, making a nice balance to the slight sweetness.

One must-try is their pasta (about $10). They have a homemade tomato sauce that is one stunning, mother-of-all sauces, and their meatballs are a serious delicacy. Still, even with its decent wine and microbrew selection, this is a place that welcomes the kiddies nicely. 200 N. Hemlock and Second Street. (503) 436-9717.

Drive north again, to Seaside, and you’ll find a beach town full of things to do for children – most notably Broadway Ave. with its almost dozen arcade businesses, ice cream vendors, kooky gift shops, bumper cars and other attractions. See www.seasideor.com for more.

One highlight is Seaside Helicopters, which whizzes you around above the town for about $25 per person. It’s thoroughly spectacular, as the helicopter takes you over the headland of Tillamook Head and Cannon Beach as well, allowing you unforgettable glimpses of the sea and these landmarks from this unusual vantage point. You even get to see “Goonies Rock” – where part of the cult film was made. Hwy 101, S. Seaside. www.seaside-helicopters.com. (503) 440-4123.

Down on the Central Oregon Coast – about 100 miles south – it’s a vast playground for kids and adults. Lincoln City is filled with miles of super clean beaches and tons of shops and restaurants.

Just south of Lincoln City, you’ll find another haven for families in a very unique resort called Bella Beach. Really, it’s a collection of rather upscale, gorgeous beach cottages that are vacation rentals or for sale. There are about 40 rentals available inside this pretty place, and more are still being built.

The philosophy of Bella Beach is to create a place with a “neighborly feel,” and indeed they’ve succeeded. Set in the midst of a Central Coast wooded area, there are the rustic architectural themes common to places like Manzanita or Cannon Beach, where garages are tucked away behind the buildings and front porches are the emphasis.

There’s a playground for the kiddies, and the homes vary from hideaway lodgings for two with oceanfront hot tubs, to larger accommodations for bigger groups. Bella Beach also offers up accommodations for groups as large as 60, if you happen to have a business retreat or reunion of some sort.

Then there’s that wondrous beach. Like many of the beaches in the area, the tide line is at a rather steep slope, so waves come in fast and hard, but dissipate quickly to shyly lap at your feet. 866-994-7026 or www.bellabeach.com.

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Air Travel Carbon Offsets

It is difficult to get around the emissions that the airplane produces while shuttling you to your destination. Currently the best option is for you to purchase a carbon offset. There are numerous non profit organizations that use the money from your carbon offset donation to aid in the development of sustainable energy sources such as wind power or solar electric generation. Other carbon offset programs plant trees to soak up the carbon produced during your flight. Carbon offsets are not that expensive either. A carbon offset calculated on Carbonfund.org for a roundtrip flight from San Francisco to Paris would be only $11. Of course carbon offset can also be used for any travel mode that produces carbon emission be it by car, train, or ship.

Accommodation

A potentially less polluting lodging option to consider is a vacation apartment or home. When you stay in a vacation rental you are in control of the energy use – just as you are in your own home. Hotels use a tremendous amount of energy for heat, air conditioning, daily linen changes, and all the other services they offer. Your vacation rental will not be consuming huge amounts of electricity 24/7 365 days a year as the hotel does. You can conscientiously limit the amount energy you use by turning off the heating or Air conditioning while you are out visiting the sights. You can use the linens and towels just as you do at home.

Of course we all love to eat out and enjoy the cuisine of the region we are visiting but restaurants also use and waste large amounts of energy contributing to CO2 emissions due to climate control and keeping the kitchen and dining area ON constantly. With a vacation rental you do not have to eat all of your meals in restaurants, with your own kitchen available you can fix some of your meals further lowering your energy use and carbon load. Buying local produce at farmers markets will even further reduce your carbon footprint. Locally grown produce produces much less greenhouse gases due to shorter transportation distances.

Renting a vacation rental in a foreign land is not difficult as you might think. One can find excellent online reservation sites to book directly with the owners such as slowtrav.com or greatrentals.com. If you would like a little more help there are numerous agencies that know the properties well and can assist you in finding the best rental for your needs.

Destination Transportation

While visiting your destination of course the cleanest way to get around will be to walk, bike, take the bus, street tram, or use the metro trains in the cities. In larger European cities such as Paris or Berlin you can take advantage of the street bike rental programs. Bikes are parked throughout the city ready to ride with the swipe of a credit card. Bike to your destination and simply lock the bike up and you are on your way. Not only will you be doing the planet a favor but you gain the potential for discovering a unique sight or connecting with the locals when you are not trapped inside a car or taxi. If your accommodations are not located near public transportation and you must rent a car you can minimize the carbon emissions by requesting a Diesel vehicle. In certain destinations you can even rent Hybrid vehicles which of course reduce the carbon footprint even further.

We can all make a difference to help clean our air and reduce global warming emissions by the choices we make when we spend our money. We hope you find these ideas helpful for planning your next trip so that you can travel carbon light.

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As a place where common tourist attractions are almost non-existent, Kiawah Island relies on its spectacular natural beauty to create an entertaining and relaxing getaway for anyone who is willing to venture away from the mainland. If you were simply looking at a map and thinking rationally about this pristine jewel, then the soft sandy beaches and the exciting Atlantic Ocean would probably stand out as the highlights of any Kiawah Island adventure. However, there is more to this South Carolina wonder than initially meets the eye.

With a quick search, the five championship courses of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort will probably be the first thing you come across. All of the picturesque beauties are wonderfully integrated into the island’s landscape, but if you only have time to try a couple, the Ocean Course and Turtle Point are the two that certainly should not be missed. Perfect for seasoned veterans and first-timers, the scenery and the views make any stroll around these courses a worthwhile pursuit no matter what your skill level.

While golf is the calling card, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is also home to some top-notch tennis to accommodate those who prefer working on their backhand over their backswing. Consider these wonderful activities with the excitement of the waterfront, and it is abundantly clear why so many people flock to Kiawah Island when they are in dire need of some rest and relaxation. But if so many people are heading to this one time secret wonder, how can you really get your blood pressure down with all the crowds and commotion?

Kiawah Island SC vacation rentals are the answer to any island getaway that is lacking the peace and quiet you always wanted. Rather than dealing with the noise of someone in the room right next door or the shouts of children running through the hallway, your private sanctuary puts you in command of all things that may disturb your restful state. The neighbors are no longer connected and pure bliss rests right outside your home rental on the sandy beach, creating the perfect environment for a secluded and easygoing getaway.

Vacation home rentals are a popular choice for families and groups, but if you are traveling in a smaller pack, Kiawah Island condo rentals are an excellent option that still offer all of the comforts of home. In addition to the basics such as a fully-equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, wireless internet, and plenty of space, many come complete with a fitness center, a game room, and beach bikes. A private pool and hot tub are also at your fingertips for an afternoon of sun and water away from the crowds or a stress-relieving soak under the stars.

Rather than your run-of-the-mill getaway where you sacrifice the convenience and luxury that you appreciate in your own home, transplant your cozy accommodations to picturesque Kiawah Island and let the day unfold on its own terms. Kicking back on your private patio, soaking in the stunning views, and heading out for an early morning stroll in the sand are just the beginning of a hassle-free retreat away from the crowds that can influence your daily itinerary. Let Kiawah Island become your personal paradise with only the endless waves of the ocean and a soft patch of sand in sight, and you can discover what it truly means to follow your own path and realize the vacation of your dreams.

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Buddhism is the religion of Thailand, with over 90 per cent of the population practicing the faith. As a result, just like you would see churches and cathedrals across Christian European countries, there are few places in Thailand where you won’t find a temple, or wat, and Koh Samui is no exception.

The most visited of all the temples on the island is Big Buddha temple, or Wat Phra Yai. The large golden Buddha statue overlooking the beach is an impressive example of the reverence that Thai people have for the Buddha. Close by, another temple shows a more modern shrine, designed by a Thai artist who also spent 3 years working on certain features of the temple by hand. On the southern tip of the island you will find Wat Khunaram displaying the preserved body of a famed Samuian monk, Lung Padaeng. His body sits in a glass case in the lotus position as if he were meditating.

High in the jungle covered hills of Samui, in a small hidden valley, there are a number of sculptures created by another of the island’s monks. The sculptures represent the dreams of the monk and are situated along a stream in the valley. In addition to this curious museum, the views of the island offer perfect photo opportunities for capturing the spanning beauty of the area.

Those interested in a little giggle at the expense of nature must check out the Hin Ta and Hin Yai (grandfather and grandmother) rock formations which through years of erosion have naturally formed into close representations of both the male and female genital organs.

While out and about exploring the island, you will come across villages that have managed to withstand the tourist industry and hold onto their unique slow pace and quaint charm. Among these villages is the Muslim town of Laem Set, which offers an interesting insight into the lives of such communities.

Waterfalls which offer cascading showers of fresh water during the monsoon and cool seasons can be found inside the foliage of the Samui jungles. Most require a trek but are worth the trip for the seclusion and dense natural surroundings that you won’t find at the beach. Na Mung and Hin Lad are the two most visited, but beware that if you are visiting between the months of March and September, the falls are usually dry.

Muay Thai boxing is Thailand’s number one sport. Since the boom of the tourist industry, these matches have been marketed as tourist attractions, with nightly competitions taking place. The biggest stadiums on Samui are located on Chaweng and Lamai beaches and although tickets can be pricy, you are guaranteed a night of bloody entertainment. It is particularly fun to watch the local spectators betting among themselves and excitedly coaxing their fighters win the match and earn them a few bob.

Snorkelling and scuba diving are among the most popular excursions on the island, with a host of companies offering half and full-day trips to the best sites. Jet-ski hire and speed boat charters can be found on Lamai and Chaweng, and are perfect for high-speed adventure. Or if you prefer to leave your water cruising to the forces that be, try out the tricky sport of kite surfing; kites and lessons are available from agents on Chaweng Beach.

Fishing excursions include boat trips, lunch and equipment, and are a great way to take some pensive time out. With expert inside knowledge of the surrounding waters and where the best catches can be found, it is almost a given that you will return with your dinner, ready to be barbequed and devoured.

Some prefer to keep their adventures dry and firmly grounded on hard soil. Mountain biking in the dense, steep jungles is one way to use your energy for some serious adventure, while off road motorbikes take the curves and swerves of the most terrifyingly tiny dirt tracks with dust-raising vigour.

Families arriving on the island should take full advantage of the many animal attractions on offer. Kids love animals and what could be more entertaining than an afternoon elephant back riding, spotting the diverse colours on a butterfly at a butterfly farm or giggling uncontrollably at the antics of man’s ancestors at the monkey theatre.

If you have money to burn then shopping will definitely be on your to-do list. Chaweng and Lamai offer the most diverse range of shops, from ornaments stalls to designer stores and original boutiques. The smaller beaches also offer some interesting little shops where you may pick up novel memorabilia to take back home.

It is not uncommon for travellers to Thailand to immerse themselves into some form of study while on holiday. Courses are available across the island, including those in yoga, reiki, Thai cooking, Thai massage and Thai boxing. What better way to return home than with a new skill?

If you have taken full advantage of all that Samui has to offer and would like to venture a little farther, then look into a daytrip to one of the spectacular islands located a matter of hours away. Koh Tao is a top Thai destination for scuba diving, while Koh Pha Ngan is the party capital of the south. Both islands have stunning beaches and a wealth of activities to engage in.

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The San Dune Inn is one of those, even for addicted veterans of the area like myself, who visit here almost every week from the metropolitan area of Portland, some 100 miles away. While there’s a lovely little local nightlife hotspot called San Dune Tavern just stumbling distance away, the San Dune Inn – a very family-friendly motel – is one of those lurking surprises awaiting.

Not many lodging spots can claim to have a vast array of freebies like bikes, game equipment, popcorn and movies. But San Dune does. Stay at this charming, unassuming place just steps away from Manzanita’s main drag – Laneda Avenue – and you’ll find stuff for volleyball and other games suitable for the sand, as well as beach balls, bikes and simple sandcastle-making gear like buckets. It’s a kid’s dream come true.

At 41, and a kid at heart, all these playthings are a dream come true for me as well.

Perhaps what charmed me the most about this place upon my first few visits was the thick London accent of owner Brian and his down-to-Earth approach, as well as the kids’ stuff available for play. And then there was that really adorable dog: Buddy. This tiny little pup was so fluffy and soft he felt more like a stuffed animal. But he was the real deal, and loves greeting guests as they come in.

On this stay, Brian’s wife, Billie, hooked me up with a lovely little room on the westward end of the motel. From here, you could just barely hear the waves of Manzanita’s beaches in the middle of the night, lulling you to sleep. The room is immaculate, with a color theme of blue, coming complete with a coffee machine, VCR and TV, a blow dryer hooked into the wall, a small fridge and even a shower cap.

The San Dune Inn has 14 such cozy rooms, all of them with VCR’s, cable TV, the small fridge, microwave and access to all the cool freebie amenities for sand play, as well as free movies, games and even books. Six of the rooms feature full kitchens with separate living room and bedroom areas. Plus, the place is pet friendly – and there’s this nifty little barbecue area out back with a tent next to it.

For me, as the middle-aged kid with a surreal sense of exploration, I was interested in playing with the bikes. After a party at a friend’s house nearby, I took one for a joyride on the beach. I’m not sure zipping around at three in the morning is what the Hines had in mind for these, but I was filled with a load of childlike joy. It’s been perhaps 20 years since I rode one, and I discovered the old adage is true: you never forget how.

Subsequent visits found me reveling more in the slight kookiness of this place. Brian has quite a raucous sense of humor, and is great for a fun spot of conversation. I’ve gone on late, nocturnal bike rides with regularity now, thanks to Brian and Billie. Sometime in the last year, they acquired a somewhat wacky statue of a heron made from found junk. Intriguing, pretty and yet delightfully off-kilter.

I’ve also found myself going through their extensive library of flicks, taking in all the M. Night Shaliman movies they have.

In the end, I discover the San Dune is perfect for families with kids – or adults who act like kids. Next time, perhaps I’ll take the more grownup route, take a friend and we’ll stay in and enjoy one of their fairly large selection of movies. Or maybe we’ll both act like kids and play with the beach toys and bikes again. You’ll find it about a block away from Laneda, at 428 Dorcas Lane.

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What I Want to do in February

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The Flavors of a Place

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