 This is a unique take on a well-covered subject, cycling across America. Simon Parker uses the journey to discover the 'real America' in the run-up to the 2024 Presidential Election. He spends most of his time in the lesser-known parts of this vast country, engaging in fascinating conversations. I learned a lot about modern America from this book, at the same time enjoying the wonder of such an epic bike ride.
The prologue of this book is amazing. The author finds himself in a potentially life threatening situation. It gave me the shivers to think about how I would get out of this situation. The author then explains his reasons for doing this trip- he cycled across America in 2016, but he did not have the time to talk to people and really get to know the country. He'd always planned to return and take more time over it. It turns out that it's quite easy to strike up conversations with Americans. They are so open and willing to share their views. Simon finds many people who happily discuss American politics, so this book is topical and relevant to what's happening in the country right now. It makes for a refreshing and different take on the cycling adventure genre. It's not just politics that people talk to Simon about, it's a vast array of subjects. The result is a beautiful tapestry of American life that goes beyond the stereotypes and America of movies of television. He speaks to a librarian about the issue of book banning from public schools. He talks to railroad workers in Nebraska about the rising cost of medical insurance. He spends time with a Burmese python hunter in Florida, learning about how they try to control this non-native species. He chats to a group of men in a coffee shop shop who told him they believe in 'GGC'- God, Guns, Country. Gun ownership is a big topic of conversation and after listening to many people's views Simon comes to an interesting conclusion on the issue. Despite being advised by several people that he should consider getting a gun for his own protection, it's clear that dogs and careless drivers are the things you really need to be scared of. Simon has some pretty hair-raising experiences with both. Cycling across America is also about the scenery and the wildlife and the author has some amazing experiences. He describes a bald eagle swooshing a few feet above his head. He spots deer skipping through a McDonald's car park. Montana, his favourite state, sounds incredibly beautiful. For those unable to do a full cycle across America, Simon picks out Highway 87 between Buffalo and Kaycee in Wyoming for a shorter ride full of gorgeous scenery. This book gave me a glimpse into small towns I had never heard off. I particularly liked the sound of Wallace, Idaho. It has great amenities like a microbrewery and bookshops. You can also walk to things without needing a car, a rare thing in this country. Ride Across America is full of surprises, things I did not know about America. Simon will suddenly throw in some well-researched information about a particular topic, like the history of barbecue food. These random subjects made the book such a joy, as I would be thinking 'what am I going to learn about in this chapter.' Ride Across America strikes the right balance between exploring a country and the joys and challenges of using a bicycle to do it. It's the best book I've read about cycling across America.
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 The lifespan and durability of the floating docks are very important factors that affect any business that is willing to invest in waterfront facilities. Among the materials that are used to make pontoons, plastics especially the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) has the following advantages over other materials such as wood and metal. This article also seeks to understand why plastic pontoons are better than the traditional materials in as much as durability and longevity are concerned.
Superior Durability Rubberized pontoons have been rated high for their durability especially the plastic ones. The most common of the materials is the HDPE; it is rot, corrosion, and UV light-resistant. This makes plastic pontoons useful in different parts of the environment such as in salt water and in extreme temperatures. To the contrary, wood used in construction is likely to rot and be damaged by insects while metal docks are known to rust. Many boat dock firms have shifted to purchase plastic pontoons due to their strength and the fact that they require little maintenance. Longevity and Low Maintenance Plastic pontoons have a longer lifespan than the normally used materials. Thus, if the pontoons are adequately cared for, it is quite possible for them to have extremely long lifespans of over three decades before they start to deteriorate. It also has a long life span and hence, does not require frequent replacements, hence cutting down on the costs for business organizations. Also, plastic pontoons are easier to maintain as compared to wooden and metal docks Floating docks made from plastic pontoons do not demand frequent maintenance. Environmental Resistance Another benefit associated with the use of plastic pontoons is that they are very resilient to the forces of nature. HDPE pontoons do not get affected by water absorption, a factor that causes swelling and warping of wooden docks. These materials also resist chemical attacks and other poor working environments, and this makes them have long lasting performance. This versatility is very helpful for docks that are situated in the coastal and heavily used areas where the structures are subjected to wear and tear on a regular basis. Cost-Effectiveness Despite the fact that the cost of using plastic pontoons might be higher than that of traditional materials, their durability is uncontestable. This means that there is a reduced frequency in having to make replacements or to carry out expensive maintenance on the machinery. The boat dock companies understand the importance of using materials that will give long-term value hence the use of plastic pontoons. Customization and Versatility Plastic pontoons give a lot of options and flexibility. Depending on the intended application, they can be created in various sizes and shapes for application in commercial marinas or individual piers. This flexibility enables the businesses to fashion docking solutions that design the enhancement of functionality and looks. Last but not the least, when it comes to the durability and the lifespan of the pontoons, it is definitely plastic pontoons that have the edge over the rest. This makes their resistance to environmental factors, low maintenance requirements, and cost-effectiveness major benefits to businesses. The advantages of having a floating pontoon for sale are numerous and so when you are choosing a floating pontoon, it is advisable to go for a plastic one. Thus, teaming with reliable boat dock companies guarantees that firms acquire reliable and long-lasting docking systems. Maintaining an active lifestyle year-round can be challenging, especially when balancing different forms of exercise like cycling and gym workouts. These activities complement each other well, but it requires careful planning to ensure you’re getting the most out of both. By balancing these activities effectively, you can stay fit, improve your performance, and enjoy the health benefits that come with consistent exercise.
In this article, we will explore practical strategies to balance cycling and gym workouts, allowing you to stay active throughout the year. We’ll cover everything from scheduling and intensity to the benefits of combining these two forms of exercise. Benefits of Combining Cycling and Gym Workouts Cycling and gym workouts each offer unique benefits that, when combined, can enhance your overall fitness. Cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that strengthens your heart and lungs while building endurance. It also targets specific muscle groups, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. On the other hand, gym workouts provide the opportunity to build strength, improve flexibility, and work on muscle groups that cycling alone may not fully engage. By incorporating both cycling and gym workouts into your routine, you create a well-rounded fitness plan. This combination helps prevent the plateau effect, where your progress stalls because your body has adapted to a particular type of exercise. It also reduces the risk of injury by strengthening different muscle groups and improving your overall stability. Furthermore, the variety offered by combining these activities can keep your workouts interesting, reducing the risk of boredom and burnout. Staying motivated is key to maintaining an active lifestyle, and having diverse workout options can help you stay committed to your fitness goals. Creating a Balanced Weekly Schedule Balancing cycling and gym workouts requires a well-thought-out weekly schedule that allows you to benefit from both without overtraining. Start by assessing your current fitness level, goals, and time availability. Once you have a clear understanding, you can design a schedule that ensures you get the most out of each workout type. A common approach is to alternate between cycling and gym days. For example, you might cycle on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and hit the gym on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This approach gives your muscles time to recover between sessions while keeping your cardiovascular system engaged. It’s also important to consider the intensity of your workouts. If you have a particularly intense cycling session, you may want to focus on lighter gym activities the next day, such as core exercises or flexibility work. Conversely, if you have a heavy gym session, a lighter cycling day with a focus on recovery can be beneficial. Balancing intensity ensures that you don’t overwork your body, which can lead to fatigue or injury. For those interested in advancing their fitness career, considering further education in exercise planning can be a valuable step. Programmes like those offered by Study Active provide a comprehensive understanding of how to create effective workout plans tailored to individual needs, enhancing both personal fitness and professional knowledge. Maximising Gym Workouts for Cyclists If you’re primarily a cyclist looking to integrate gym workouts, it’s essential to focus on exercises that complement your cycling. Strength training can significantly enhance your cycling performance by improving power, endurance, and injury prevention. Leg exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses are crucial as they target the same muscles used in cycling. Strengthening these muscles in the gym translates to better power output on the bike. Additionally, core exercises are vital because a strong core provides stability and support during long rides, helping you maintain proper form and reduce the risk of back pain. It’s also beneficial to include upper body exercises in your gym routine. While cycling mainly focuses on the lower body, a strong upper body helps with bike control, especially during climbs or sprints. Exercises like push-ups, rows, and shoulder presses can build the necessary upper body strength without adding excessive bulk, which could hinder cycling performance.  Stone cone crushers are widely used in the mining industry, aggregating production, and recycling processes. They are used to decrease large rocks into smaller rocks, gravel, or even rock dust. It is important for businesses to know the differences between different cone crushers and their uses in order to improve their crushing processes. In this article, the author discusses the various categories of stone cone crushers and their uses and also the role of rock crusher companies, with input from a China jaw stone crusher factory.
Types of Cone Crushers There are several types of stone cone crushers and each type is used for different purposes and on different types of materials. The main differences are the Spring Cone Crusher, Hydraulic Cone Crusher, and Compound Cone Crusher. All of them have their advantages and are used in various operations depending on the hardness and abrasiveness of the material. Spring Cone Crusher The Spring Cone Crusher is used for secondary and fine crushing. It employs a system that has a mantle that rotates within a bowl. Due to its simplicity of design, it is widely used for rock crushing in medium to hard materials, where the fines are not required as in the case of fine materials. Hydraulic Cone Crusher For the more demanding tasks and where a greater degree of control and versatility is needed, the Hydraulic Cone Crusher provides enhanced levels of both control and performance. This crusher employs the use of hydraulic systems to control the size of the crusher setting and also to remove any blockage that may be within the crushing chamber which makes it ideal for crushing hard and abrasive materials. Compound Cone Crusher The Compound Cone Crusher is a new type of cone crusher with high efficiency and is designed by our company on the basis of absorbing the advanced technologies of similar products at home and abroad. It is distinguished by a smaller angle of the crushing chamber and a larger number of parallel sections between the zones, which allows making the particles more equal. Applications Cone crushers are some of the most versatile machines that are used in industries today. In mining operations they assist in breaking down big rocks into smaller manageable sizes, in aggregate processing they are crucial in the production of quality gravel and sand and in recycling operations they are used in reclaiming materials from discarded building materials. In conclusion, stone cone crushers are widely used in many industries and they provide different ways of crushing rocks and minerals effectively. Over time, the technology used in these machines also advances, thus making them more suitable for the requirements of the various industries. Knowledge of the characteristics and uses of various cone crushers will assist organizations in making the right purchase decisions to achieve the best results.  AC axial fans are essential parts of numerous industrial and commercial air-cooling systems. These fans are designed to be very strong and to operate at maximum efficiency in a wide range of applications to ensure proper air circulation. This paper aims to provide information on the design, function, and purchasing of these units, especially for businesses that are interested in wholesale axial-flow fans for air-cooling applications products. This article focuses on the details of AC axial fans, the features of their construction, the advantages of their operation, and how to select a manufacturer.
Fundamental Concept AC axial fans work by causing air to flow along a direction that is parallel to the shaft on which the blades are mounted. These fans have blades, a motor, and a casing that guides the air in the required direction of flow. This is due to their design and they are very effective and popular in systems where space and efficiency are very important. Due to their capacity to move large volumes of air at moderate pressure, they are suitable for general ventilation and cooling. Main Characteristics Another important aspect of AC axial fans is the blades where the design is such that it provides the highest amount of air movement with the least amount of noise and energy consumption. These fans come in different sizes and blade types, which makes it possible to select a fan depending on the cooling requirements. Higher models also have the option of speed control, making them more suitable for various uses. Applications AC axial fans are used in HVAC systems, electronic equipment cooling and any application where there is a need to displace air effectively. They can be installed in small areas such as ceiling voids, wall mounted panels and freestanding air conditioning units. They are preferred for enhancing air-cooling capacities because they can easily be installed in existing systems without requiring extensive alterations. Manufacturer Choosing the right manufacturer is very important when it comes to wholesale axial-flow fans for air-cooling applications products. Potential customers should focus on the manufacturers of AC axial fans that provide a wide variety of products while also showing their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Companies that spend more on research and development, use international standards, and offer extensive technical support are likely to offer better quality and high performing fans. Benefits In cases where a business needs to acquire a large number of AC axial fans, it is possible to benefit from buying in bulk. Products in the wholesale axial-flow fans for air-cooling applications category may also include cost advantages due to the bulk purchase. Also, cooperation with wholesalers can guarantee the supply and accessibility of products, which is vital for extensive projects or regular maintenance. Wholesale purchasing also creates opportunities for ordering fans according to certain specifications, which will improve the efficiency of the cooling systems as a whole. In conclusion, AC axial fans are essential components in today’s air-cooling systems, characterized by high efficiency, flexibility, and simplicity of construction. It is important for businesses that are seeking to invest in air management systems to have a good understanding of the two. Thus, by selecting the right AC axial fans manufacturers and evaluating the possibilities of purchasing in large quantities, businesses can enhance the efficiency and profitability of their cooling systems. 
AS2 Pro Max
If, like me, you have been using manual pumps you'll be amazed at what these Cycplus electric pumps can do. The first time I used them the thought that came into my mind was 'game changing.' I considered getting rid of my manual pump. Read on to find out if I did!
Use my affiliate link to get a 5% discount from Cycplus. Electric power
Left to right: AS2, AS2 Pro, AS2 Pro Max
The main difference between these pumps and a manual pump is electric power. The benefit of this is that it gets air into the tire quicker and with a lot less effort than using a manual pump.
The disadvantage is that, unlike a manual pump, the Cycplus pumps will run out and need to be charged. However, the charging time is really not that long:
If you get into the habit of charging them after use they'll always be ready for when you need them. On one charge the AS2 can inflate 700C25 tires to 80PSI 2 times. The AS2 Pro can do the same 4 to 5 times. The Pro Max around 7 times. Yes, a manual pump can inflate tires forever, but think about how often you need to inflate tires on a typical bike trip. Probably not that often. If you do need it more often, perhaps on a multi-day trip, there's a good chance you'll be able to charge the pumps. Think hotels, cafes and taking a power bank. Who wins? Use of electric power Cycplus: 1 Manual pump: 0 Speed and accuracy of tire inflation
The digital display on the AS2 Pro and Pro Max where you can set the tire pressure. You can also monitor how much battery remains with the 3 blips on the bottom left of the display
The Cycplus pumps are very quick. Cycplus state the AS2 can get you up to 80PSI in 80 seconds. The Pro can do it in 50 seconds. The Pro Max has more power so can do it even faster. I did my tires to 65PSI and although I did not time it the job was done in seconds. I could not have done it in that time with a manual pump.
The other great thing is that the AS2 Pro and Pro Max have a digital display with the tire pressure. It means you can set the tire pressure you want and they'll fill the tire to that pressure. They'll automatically switch off when they meet the pressure. I thought this was fantastic because it's always guess work when using a manual pump with no gauge. I have to stop pumping to frequently feel the tires and make a judgement if the pressure is correct or not. The AS2 does not have the digital display, but it still pumps tires faster than a manual pump. It also wins on size, being the smallest of the AS2 models. Who wins? Speed and accuracy of inflation Cycplus: 1 Manual pump: 0 
The AS2 is much smaller than an average manual pump
Smaller than a manual pump
The main difference between the Cycplus pumps and a manual pump is their small size. It means they take up a lot less space to store and are easier to carry around than a manual pump. The two smaller models can easily fit into pockets. The larger model, the Pro Max, is a bit bulkier but not by much.
Who wins? Size Cycplus: 1 Manual pump: 0 Noise and heat
These pumps are very noisy. I was surprised the first time I used them, but soon got used to it. I was concerned about disturbing neighbours, but then I reckoned it was no worse than all the other noisy machines you can hear in gardens like lawnmowers and drills.
The pumps can also get very warm during use. That's the reason there is a silicone cover on them, to protect your hands. You don't get any of these issues with a manual pump. but it's a small price to pay for all the other benefits you get from the Cycplus pumps. Who wins? Noise and heat Cycplus: 0 Manual pump: 1 Easy to use
The Cycplus pumps have instruction manuals, so there's some learning to do. You don't need to learn as much to be able to use a manual pump. However, once you've absorbed the Cycplus instructions and used the pumps a couple of times you are unlikely to need to refer to the manual again.
I've read other reviews that comment on converting the Cycplus pumps between Presta and Schrader valves being fiddly. To be fair, I also have to do that conversion with my manual pump. When I used the AS2 Pro and Pro Max I just put on the hose attachment, which meant I did not need to do the conversion to use it with a Schrader valve. If you are doing the conversion you'll probably only need to do it once unless you have tires with different valves. Being able to set the tire pressure on the AS2 Pro and AS2 Pro Max makes them a lot easier to use than a manual pump without a pressure gauge. You can accurately inflate the tire to your desired pressure. You are not relying on feeling the tires with your fingers to guess if the pressure is correct. Who wins? Ease of use Cycplus: 1 Manual pump: 1 Draw! Cost
The Cycplus pumps are expensive. The AS2 is around £60, the AS2 Pro around £84 and the Pro Max around £100 (July 2024 prices). A cheap manual bicycle pump will cost less than £5.
However, the Cycplus pumps are on a different level. I was super impressed by the AS2 Pro ad Pro Max. Being able to set the tire pressure to what you want and using the hose attachment meant you could just walk away and do something else. You do not even need to be there to hold it or turn it off, it will just turn off automatically when the tire pressure is reached. Yes, a manual pump is cheaper but with Cycplus you are getting an amazing tool that makes tire inflation fast, accurate and less of a chore. Who wins? Cost Cycplus: 0 Manual pump: 1 Conclusion
The Cycplus pumps are the clear winner when compared to a manual pump. Manual pumps win on price, but the e-pumps do the job of tire inflation so much better. If you can afford it then go for the AS2 Pro or Pro Max as they allow you to set the tire pressure you want to inflate to. It's up to you if you think you need the extra battery capacity and power of the Pro Max.
Did I get rid of my manual pump? Not quite. It's at the back of the shed as a backup, but I have a feeling I will never use it again, and it will soon be lost under many cobwebs. The Cycplus pump is how I inflate my tires now. Use my affiliate link to get a 5% discount from Cycplus.  This is especially true when dressing up for formal occasions, it does not mean that you have to compromise on comfort or fashion when the weather is cold. It is important to note that women’s jackets, when selected appropriately, can even improve the appearance of formal wear. This guide explores the process of choosing and accessorizing the right jacket from coats in bulk for any formal event, thus portraying the right attitude.
Proper Kind of Jacket The type of jacket that you will wear should correspond to the formality and the type of the event that you are attending. For formal occasions, it is recommended to wear structured blazers or stylish opera coats from coats in bulk that give a classy look. For business formal occasions, a well-fitted blazer in non-vibrant colors such as black, navy or grey is appropriate. One should also make sure that the jacket does not dominate the outfit but rather enhance it. Fabric and Color The material of your jacket is very important in terms of the look and feel of the garment. Velvet, silk or fine wool type of fabrics are ideal for formal occasions and are also featured among wholesale womens jackets. The colors of the accessories should also be well chosen, they should blend with the dress or contrast it in a classy manner. Fit and Adjustment A good jacket is important in making a good outfit. It should improve your figure, not camouflage it. Adjusting your jacket to the right size does make a lot of difference, especially when purchasing coats for a large number of people where sizes may not be uniform. Make sure the shoulders are level and the sleeves come down to the wrist. Accessorize Appropriately The accessories are the icing on the cake of formal wear. If you are dressing up a jacket for a formal occasion, then it is best to accessorize it with classy items such as silk scarves, brooches or a clutch. These can be very useful to add a personal touch and make you look even better. Avoid overloading the outfit with accessories to allow the jacket and your outfit to pop. Clean and Preserve Your Jacket Proper care is important when it comes to your formal jackets so as to ensure that they remain in the best condition. Almost all the quality jackets from wholesale womens jackets should be cleaned using special techniques such as dry cleaning or hand washing. Maintenance is done frequently to ensure that the jacket does not lose its shape and the fabric quality is intact for the next occasion. With the help of these tips, you will be able to easily style women’s jackets for any formal event. Whether one is purchasing many coats for business or choosing a few for a specific occasion, the right jacket can complement formal wear perfectly and provide warmth while doing so. Highlights
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