Here's my guide to spending a day in Perth. Make the most of the city's outdoor spaces and riverside location before heading to George Street where you will find the best independent retailers and Perth Museum and Art Gallery.

There is a map at the end of the blog to help you navigate to the places I have suggested here.

​Riverside Walk
Perth's location on the banks of the Tay, Scotland's longest river, is one of its greatest assets. Make this your first stop- it's just a 10 minute walk from the train station. 

Wide pavements on the west side of the river provide a grand, urban perspective, akin to a Parisian stroll along the Seine. However, the most delightful walks can be had on the east side of the river where you will find the Riverside Park.

This park has water features, sculptures and the largest collection of heather in Scotland-  over 950 species. The pathways look onto the river and the city skyline.

Kinnoul Hill View
If you fancy a bit of a hike, head up Kinnoull Hill for one of Scotland's best views. Allow for about 2 hours to make the return walk to the viewpoint shown in my photo.  You could also pop into Branklyn Garden to see the Himalayan Blue Poppies. 

My blog about Branklyn and Kinnoull Hill has more detail about these places.

Continental Cafe Culture
The layout of the streets that surround Saint John's Kirk is reminiscent of an Italian Piazza. The cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating facing the church.

A good spot to enjoy the atmosphere is Hinterland,  a cafe with superb coffee, home baking and sandwiches bursting with flavour.​ I opted for the lentil and vegetable soup and a toasted ciabatta with roasted vegetables, mozarella and pesto. 

Unique Shopping
Perth city centre is full of the usual high street names, but for something different head to George Street. This is where you will discover the city's independent retailers. I have highlighted the food and drink shops here, but you can also get your hands on clothing, jewelry, gifts, crafts and bicycles on this street.

The Bean Shop
The Bean Shop offers up the delightful retail experience of buying coffee that is ground whilst you wait. The smell of the black stuff enters your nostrils from the street and gets even better when you step inside. It's like going back to the Victorian era with the floor boards, chandeliers, ceiling rose, cornicing and big wooden counter. I was handed a menu of coffees so that I could make my choice. I noticed that the Gourmet Blend is the best seller, so I went for this.

It is a busy place with staff going to and from the store room, grinding coffee, weighing it on the scales and then packaging it up in the brown bags that have a picture of the shop on the front.

The bag of coffee is such a tactile object- Squeezing it, smelling the coffee inside and feeling the rustic material of the bag.  It's just such a nice experience shopping for coffee in here. I am pleased to report that the Gourmet Blend was smooth and mellow and very easy to drink.

Provender Brown Deli
On one side of this shop there is a long refrigerated deli counter with cheeses, olives and charcuterie. On the other side there are shelves brimming with interesting treats like chutneys, jams, spices, biscuits and pasta. 

In the rear room of the shop there is a great selection of alcohol, including whisky, gin and Scottish beers. There are also sweet treats, like these lovely chocolates that I purchased.

Casella & Polegato
​What a treat to have an Italian bakery in the city! This is the place to come for artisan bread, pastries and more. I treated myself to a packet of hazelnut meringue. This was melt-in-the-mouth deliciousness, light, but with a nutty crunch.

Brewdog
Relax with some Scottish craft Beer at Brewdog's Perth bar. This company was one of the Scottish craft beer pioneers and it has grown into a huge brand, but retaining the independent streak beloved of beer fans. There is a neon sign on the wall that states 'fiercely independent. Forever craft.'

The interior has all of the hallmarks of an indie beer pub. There's the retro movie sign that lists the beers on tap, the exposed brick walls and the natural wood tables. The leather seats and cosy corners are a perfect accompaniment to a cool IPA.

​The outside of this building, with its jagged edge on a corner street, reminds me somewhat of New York's Flatiron building. 

Perth Museum and Art Gallery
​Right opposite Brewdog is the museum, a grand Victorian building. Step inside the wonderful dome entrance and discover many fascinating items. I shall share with you some of my favourites.

The sculpture court has this gem- a vase that was made for Napoleon's first wife:

One of the rooms is dominated by this bronze age log boat, made from a hollowed-out oak tree, that was found in the River Tay in 2001:

I love these Neolithic carved balls. They look so tactile. They are 6000 years old, their funtion unknown, but possibly for ceremonial purposes:

There is a great display about the largest salmon ever caught in Britain. It was realed in from the River Tay by Georgina Ballantine in 1922. It weighed 29kg and was used to feed the staff and patients at the hospital. The museum has a copy of the plaster cast of the fish, but I think this photo gives you a much better idea of how massive it was:

Old Fashioned Sweet Shop Experience
Don't leave Perth without paying a visit to this wonderful shop. It's been here for over 100 years and retains a shop front with an Art Deco/1920s vibe. B.A. Kerrigan is both a tobacconist and a sweet shop. It can be found on Methven Street, about a 6 minute walk from the train station.

If you are a smoker they've got cigars, pipe tobacco and all the accessories. They have something like 120 different types of sweets and buying these is a nice little experience. The jars of sweets are on the customer side of the shop so you are asked to pick up the jar and bring it over to the shopkeeper. What kid (or adult) wouldn't want to pick up one of these big sweetie shop jars?

The shopkeeper then empties the sweets out of the jar to clatter onto the scales. You choose your weight or just do it by eye and your treats are then poured into a paper bag. What I am describing might sound like a normal everyday thing, but the reality is that with Internet shopping and supermarkets this has become a special and rare experience. Go and enjoy it!

Tea and Cake at Effies
If you haven't overindulged in the sweets and are in the mood for a traditional tea room experience then pop into Effies. It is a 2 minute walk from the sweet shop, on the High Street. It is a little piece of vintage joy with its Victorian parlour atmosphere of chandeliers, old portraits and silver tea pots. Cakes are light, fluffy and yummy and they have over 30 teas to choose from.

That's my suggestion for a day in Perth. For more ideas of things to see and do in the city check out perthcity.co.uk

How to get to Perth
The city is well connected by coach and train, but if you are bringing your bike then train is the way to go. From Glasgow it takes just over 1 hour and from Edinburgh it is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Some services require a reservation to take a bike. See my guide to taking your bike on the train.

Suggested Cycle Routes from Perth
If you want to explore a bit further try these cycle routes:

• 3 miles to Huntingtower Castle

Many cyclists love coffee and believe a good bike ride should be accompanied by a good coffee. I am one of those cyclists, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to review some products from Rave Coffee. 

"No Jargon, no BS, just great coffee made simple."
These are the words you will find on Rave's packaging and website. They capture the coffee roaster's ethos about sourcing great coffee without any of the faff that you sometimes get with other coffee companies, like fancy ways to describe coffee and too much emphasis on packaging. That's why Rave's coffee arrives in no-frills packets, but I think they still look pretty cool and distinctive. I like the crossed out phrases, used by a certain coffee-chain to describe their drinks- I think this is the 'BS' that Rave are getting at.

A bit about Rave
They have a coffee roasting operation and cafe in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. It is in the Cotswolds region, about 80 miles from London. Their range of coffees is impressive, so much to try! There are coffee blends with enticing flavours, including one called 'fudge blend evolution' that tastes of fudge. There is a vast range of single origin coffees and they do Nespresso compatible pods. There is also decaf coffee and cold brew coffee. Just take a look at their website; it is a very enjoyable browsing experience with lots to discover. Let's move straight on to the taste test...

Signature Blend for Cafetiere
First up is the Signature Blend- the photo at the top of this blog shows the packaging. I love that there is an air vent on the back of the packet so that you can smell the contents. It is an important part of the coffee drinking experience to take in that wonderful aroma. Boy, does this stuff smell good! 

Then it is time to open the packet and take a look at the lovely black dust inside. These packets can easily be resealed after opening them, so you can keep the contents fresh and not worry about having to transfer it to another container.

All of Rave's coffees feature a little card with a taste profile. In the case of the signature blend it is chocolate, almond and caramel. I am not the best at picking out flavours in coffee, but I think I got the chocolate and the caramel. What I will say is that I found this coffee very easy to drink. It is smooth and not too bitter, making it easy to sink back cup after cup. It gives that all important caffeine hit, most welcome for my post-cycle java. I have really enjoyed having this coffee in my life and would not hesitate in recommending it.

The Signature Blend is currently £6 for a 250g bag and you can make savings by ordering larger quantities and/or taking out a subscription.

​Nespresso Compatible Pods
I tried three different coffees from Rave's range of pods. The Signature Blend, The Italian Job and  Columbia El Carmen.

The pods are 100% compostable so you can put them in your food waste bin. 

Signature Blend Pods
​What I liked best about this coffee was the crema, that layer of coffee foam that sits on top of the drink after it has finished coming out of the Nespresso machine. In the Signature Blend the crema is a gorgeous smooth and creamy concoction that feels lovely in your mouth. These pods have a caramel, chocolate and almond taste profile. I could pick up the first two flavours, but I wasn't too good at detecting the nut taste. It is a smooth, easy drinking coffee, so good for those that don't want something that tastes too strong.  

Italian job
I found these pods to be very flavoursome to the extent that I wanted to keep going back to it and taking little sips. I found it quite an addictive taste and it was pure pleasure to take in the chocolate and hazelnut flavour. I really enjoyed the strong aftertaste that remained in my mouth after I had finished the coffee. The caffeine buzz is strong on this one and this makes it ideal when you need that extra boost. A good one for when you need to get up early and on the go quickly.

Colombia El Carmen
This single origin coffee has a stunning crema formation on the top with little bubbles that feel silky in the mouth. It also came out my machine with a little swirl pattern. I could not resist taking a photo to show you this- don't you think this is a beautiful looking cup of coffee? 

I was very impressed with Rave's ethos, the value and the quality of their products. If you are seeking out some new and exciting coffees to accompany your cycling life then its definitely worth checking out Rave.

Vulpine specialise in cycling clothing that performs well on the bike, but also looks stylish off the bike. I had the opportunity to review some of their products. This blog reviews the merino Polo and Henley tops.​

Unpacking the tops and you are met with simply lovely items of clothing- flawless cut, stitching and design. The feel of the merino is soft and luxurious. When I tried them on I was delighted with the fit. They look great on, the sizing is perfect and flattering.

Vulpine specialise in cycling clothing that performs well on the bike, but also looks stylish off the bike. I had the opportunity to review some of their products. This blog reviews the mid merino polka dot socks.

Cycling socks need to keep you cool in hot weather or warm in colder weather. You are not going to get that from cotton socks bought from a normal clothing store, but Vulpine's sock is made from merino wool, a material well-known for its superior qualities. 

I tried the red polka dot socks. They look great and I would definitely be happy to wear them in the office or anywhere off the bike. 

They feel nice and soft when wearing them. I tried them out on three very warm days- averaging 25 degrees centigrade- and they definitely kept me cool.  Even though my feet were sweating the socks have a wicking action that pulls moisture off the skin and out of the sock. 

The other amazing thing about these socks is the odour resistance of merino wool. I decided to really put this to the test and wore the socks for one week without washing them! This included the three very warm days mentioned above. And they smell of nothing other than wool. Perhaps a bit musty by the end of the week, but not of smelly feet, which you would get from cotton socks. That's great news for cycle commuters who do not want to have to change their socks when they get to the office. 

I tried these during the summer, so have not yet been able to test their winter performance, but I have had used merino socks from other stockists in colder weather and know that the material is excellent at keeping feet warm.

These socks are currently priced at £15. It's good value when you consider their technical qualities, stylish looks, that they are made to work in both cold and hot weather and that they will likely last for years because of the quality of the material.

​I will be reviewing more of Vulpine's products,  so look out for my next blog.

​If you need a bit more convincing about cycling specific clothing read on...
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Why do you need special cycling clothes?
​It's one of those hotly debated subjects among the cycling community. One argument is that you should just wear your normal clothes when cycling. The problem with that is that not all normal clothes perform well when cycling longer distances or are any good when the weather turns nasty. Jeans, for example, do not give you the freedom of movement that you need when pedaling. If it rains jeans get heavy and wet, and that's a nightmare if you are on a bike for any length of time.

The other argument is that you should wear things like lycra and high visibility yellow jackets for freedom of movement, safety and performance in bad weather. The problem with these clothes is that it means you look like 'a cyclist' and its probably not the look you want for the office or meeting friends for lunch.

Vulpine offers clothing that is the best of both worlds- stylish (i.e. looks like normal clothes) and also performs the technical function of cycling clothing. Think, being able to go from bike to work or bike to meeting friends for drinks and not having to change clothes or worry that your clothes shout 'cycling geek.' 

Visit Vulpine's website to check out their range.​

Scotland is home to some of the world’s best cycle routes. Long or short distance, the country’s cycle routes traverse through roads and wilderness and showcase the country’s majestic scenery all the way from north to south.

There’s over 3,800 km worth of National Cycle Routes in Scotland that span forest, townships, coastline, rural areas, railway paths and the country’s many historical landmarks. From short family-friendly cycling trips to multi-day adventures, Scotland’s variety of cycle routes has something for everyone.

​Discover Scotland’s breathtaking landscape and surrounding islands on these 10 cycle routes:

Inverness to John o’Groats​

The Colinton Tunnel is one of the most spectacular features of Edinburgh's cycle network. Visit it on this 8 mile traffic-free route following the Union Canal path and a disused railway line. The route ends in Balerno where you can visit the walled garden of Malleny House.

Fountainbridge
The route begins on the Union Canal which can be found on Fountainbridge- hidden behind glass office buildings is something like a mini Amsterdam with the colourful canal houseboats and alfresco dinning . There is even a canal boat serving coffee.​

-The canal is a popular place for locals. It can be busy with pedestrians and cyclists and is very narrow in places, so it is not a place to go very fast.

Despite being in a city the canal path has a surprising countryside feel with plenty of trees, ducks and swans.

Slateford Aqueduct
After about 2 miles you will come to the Slateford Aqueduct. Although an impressive piece of engineering this is probably the most annoying part of the canal for cyclists. The narrow cobbled path makes it pretty impossible to cycle over and the signage instructs you to push your bike. Some cyclists still give it a go, but there is so little space for passing safely that I recommend just pushing the bike and once at the other end you will be able to pedal again.

Colinton Dell
After the aqueduct it's just two minutes more cycling until you reach the turn-off. It is quite easy to shoot past it, but just look for the blue directional signage. There are three signs on a pole and one of them points to Balerno and Colinton. 

This takes you up and onto a bridge that crosses the canal and then the A70 Lanark Road to join a path that was once a railway line. Passenger trains ran on this line until 1943, goods trains continuing until 1967. It follows the Water of Leith and heads into Colinton Dell.

This is a special part of the city and it is worth parking up the bike and doing a bit of walking along the many trails that take you through the woods and alongside the water.

Colinton Tunnel- 3.7 miles from Fountainbridge
One of the most exciting parts of the route is cycling through the railway tunnel at Colinton. This used to be a gloomy experience, but it has been transformed into one of  the most beautiful parts of Edinburgh's cycle network, thanks to the mural painted on every surface of the tunnel.  

The theme of the mural is local history and heritage. You will see an otter swimming, a train pulling into a station packed with interesting characters, a horse and carriage racing by and much more. The mural is nearing completion, but still requires donations and if you wish to give something there are details on the tunnel website.

Spylaw Park
After the tunnel you come to Spylaw Park where there is a particularly striking grand house. This was the mansion of James Gillespie who made his fortune as a snuff merchant. He built the house in 1773 next to his snuff-mill and today it contains private flats.

The park is ideal for a picnic with a huge grass area, plenty of benches and a children's play park. Or head through the park to get up to The Spylaw, a country pub with stylish interior and a beer garden. If coffee is more your thing then Java Moment (not open weekends) on Bridge Road does an excellent cup.

"I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in." Robert Louis Stevenson. His statue in Colinton village depicts him with two books.
​
​Colinton village is worth a wander, particularly down Spylaw Street with its idyllic cottages leading down to a bridge where you are surrounded by the sound of the Water of Leith rushing below. On the other side of the bridge there is the gorgeous Colinton Parish Church. This is also where you will find the Robert Louis Stevenson statue. The famous author visited Colinton as a boy and the statue depicts him as a boy with his dog, a skye terrier called 'Coolin'. There is a poetry trail around the village with panels containing verse from his work.

Mills and Railways
All along this route there had been a thriving milling industry- saw mills, paper mills, barley and grain mills. The railway serviced these mills and led to a housing boom along the line as the train made it easy to travel to Edinburgh. Passenger usage was so robust that in 1914 a normal train consisted of 8 coaches and this was increased to 13 on Saturdays. After the First World War the railway started to go into decline, largely as a result of competition from buses.

Monuments to the area's industrial past are rare and what you will mostly find is trees, gently flowing water and the chance to spot wildlife. If you are lucky you might see deer, heron, badger and kingfisher.

Currie Conservation Village
An elegant church, with a clock tower, appears suddenly on the right- it is quite a striking vision after seeing only trees and and glimpses of the Water of Leith for the last couple of miles. This is Currie Kirk (1784) and the little patch of cute cottages surrounding it is part of the conservation village. It is worth getting off the bike and having an explore around here.

​Balerno
Once you reach the end of the route, at Balerno, it is marked with a metal sculpture set into the pathway that signifies the twisting route of the Water of Leith.

At this point you emerge onto Bridge Road. Turn left here to reach the centre of Balerno and for Malleny Garden. It can be a busy road, although there is a cycle lane.

Main Street in Balerno contains a couple of pubs, a hairdresser and a pharmacy. It is a pretty street the way that it curves uphill and is lined with attractive stone buildings and bright flower boxes.

Malleny Garden
The garden is sign posted from Bridge Road. You will see the large sign as you cycle towards the centre of Balerno. 

Malleny House is not open to the public, but the gardens are in the care of the National Trust.

The entrance (admission fee) to the garden is through a small gate in the wall that has a bird, like a phoenix, incorporated into the ironwork. This is the Gore Brown Henderson crest, former owners of Malleny House. On the other side of the gate there is a coat of arms, representing the Rosebery family, also former owners of the house. 

The gardens are small, but have many interesting features, including clipped yew trees planted in the 17th century, Victorian glasshouses and the largest rose collection in Scotland.

An interesting fact is that spring arrives up to 10 days later here than it does in the centre of Edinburgh. This is because the garden is north-facing and has an altitude of 170m.

Looking for other ideas of cycling routes from Edinburgh? 

Why not try the route to Musselburgh? It is also mostly traffic-free. 

All mountain bikers remember their first time. Riding across different types of terrains, rocks and across rivers can be exciting and fun. However, it can also be daunting and terrifying. With practice it gets easier and a lot more fun.

There are a few tips that every mountain biker wished they knew when starting out. Here at Road and Mountain Bike Reviews we have put together a few tips to help a mountain biking enthusiast take their skills to the next level.


Staying Loose
A mountain bike is designed for tackling technical terrain. The best thing to do, is let the mountain bike do its job. Staying relaxed and staying loose will help the mountain bike move beneath the rider. The more complex the terrain, the more room the mountain bike needs. When riding downhill, a rider should think about pushing up arms while pushing out their legs.

Learning to allow the bike to move beneath them will allow the rider to float over most obstacles. Having a relaxed grip of the handle bars will help the relaxation of the elbows and forearms.

Momentum
Momentum can be a mountain bikers’ best friend. Maintaining momentum or holding speed can be beneficial for a rider to cover technical terrain with more ease. Reducing the speed can sometimes make certain types of terrain much trickier. A rider should try and maintain speed whenever they can. However, only as long as they feel safe and in control of the bike.

Rider's Weight
Do not forget to switch your body weight. When climbing, a rider should lean forward, and try to keep the centre of gravity over the back wheel. On a downward trail, the rider should go in the opposite direction. Positioning the body in the correct way will allow the rider to move through the climb or descent much easier.

Brakes
A common mistake by mountain bikers is to pull on the brakes. Mountain bike brakes are designed to modulate the speed with one or two fingers. Change the pace of the mountain bike before the turn, rocks or technical will allow the rider to have a better control of the bike.

If the rider feels like they are going too fast, use the right brake for the back brake. The bike may skid, but at least there is less chance of the rider going over the handle bars. Spending some time becoming familiar with the brakes will allow the rider to learn how to control the bike and how it responds.

The majority of entry level mountain bikers think that they have only two settings. Locked and not using the brake. When the brake is locked, the rider gets less control. The most power comes from the front brake. The rider should be careful not to use too much braking power. When a rider is descending, learning to feather the brake will help the rider control the bike.

Gears
Now that a rider has got familiar with the brakes. The rider should spend time getting to know the gears on the bike, so they can change the pace of the bike to the riding conditions they are faced with.

Mountain bike trails have a wide combination of terrain, combined with climbs and descents. Learning, how to shift comfortably between gears will help the rider maintain momentum- a mountain biker's best friend.

Suspension
The majority of mountain bikes have some sort of front suspension, allowing the rider to role over bumps unnoticed. They only work if the rider has them set on an active position. A rider should take a minute to learn how to set their suspension. Be careful, a rider does not want to totally lock their suspension to fully rigid on the trail.

Target Fixation
Entry level mountain bikers tend to stare directly on the obstacle or rock they are trying to avoid. The bike tends to go in the direction that the eyes are fixed on. Looking past the obstacle, to the direction the rider wants to go, far down the trail and keeping their head straight will help the rider move with more ease down the trail.

Better Riders
Riding with better riders not only helps push oneself, but it also helps the rider pick up some of the more experienced mountain bikers' riding habits. For example, how they handle themselves on the trail, the mountain bike and prepare for a day out on the trail. These valuables skills can be picked up by watching more experienced riders.

Wheelies
​Learning to perform a wheelie or a nose wheelie can be very beneficial for a rider while out on the trail. Pulling a wheelie to get over an object, or a nose wheelie so the rear of  a mountain bike misses the object.

Even if a mountain biking enthusiast can’t perform a wheelie, knowing how to take the weight off the bike, will make parts of the trail much smoother and easier to control. Pulling wheelies is much easier with clipless pedals.

Explore
Once a rider has explored their local trails, exploring new trails will help the rider sharpen their mountain biking skills and allow the rider to challenge themselves. This will eventually allow the rider to become a better all-rounder mountain biker.

More Riding
No one becomes a better mountain biker overnight. It takes time and practice. Spending more time on the bike, riding to the local shops, to work or to the local park will improve a rider's riding skills. There may be no need for a monthly gym subscription.

Mountain Bike Groups
Throughout the country there many mountain biking groups that cycling enthusiasts can join. There is nothing more rewarding than spending time with people who share your passion. It is an ideal way of building up a cycling enthusiast's knowledge of mountain biking. A wide range of mountain biking groups are also available online.

Sitting in the saddle
Mountain bikes are equipped with a saddle. However, that doesn’t mean you have to use it all the time. More experienced mountain bikers refrain from sitting in the saddle as much as possible as the riders legs act as the perfect shock absorbers. There’s a lot to absorb. A second benefit of being off the saddle, is that the rider can easily and quickly switch their body weight to help control the bike.

Mountain Biking Attire
Mountain biking attire can vary considerably depending on weather, time of the day and locations. Checking the weather forecast can allow the rider to find out how many layers they should wear.

The rider should refrain from going out in their best clothing and wear comfortable clothing that the rider doesn’t mind getting dirty or damaged. Investing in a pair of padded shorts can be beneficial, with a pair of good quality mountain biking shoes. The rider should not forget about wearing a good quality trail helmet. Studies have shown, wearing a bike helmet can reduce serious head injury by seventy percent.

Extra Provisions
If a rider is thinking about spending the day out at the trail it’s definitely worth them taking more than their credit card. Having some small snacks and a drink to keep away any dehydration and hunger pains is always a good idea.

Mountain biking can be no fun if a rider is riding on any empty stomach or a dry mouth. Packing an extra tube in case of a puncture can definitely come in handy. Learning how to change a flat will definitely come in handy if a rider is thinking about biking on a regular basis.

Opportunities to Improve
All mountain bike trails are different with a wide range of climbs, descents, terrains and technical parts. Entry level mountain bikers can find it daunting. Taking the plunge on every ride to try something different will improve a rider's mountain biking skills. Always skipping the opportunity over fear will cause the rider not to improve. However, a rider should only take on a new challenge if they feel it is safe to do so.

Bike Maintenance
Exploring a new trail is no fun if you're hearing funny noises as you pedal. Mountain bikes require regular maintenance. One of the best ways of maintaining a bike is getting into a good habit of cleaning it on a regular basis. Cleaning the bike on a regular basis will allow the rider to spot any wear and tear before it turns into a more serious issue.

Taking a few minutes to check over the bike can save the rider from a long walk home. Checking the air in the tires is at the required PSI level as flat tires can cause
the bike to work a lot harder. The required PSI level can be found in the instruction manual.

Testing the brakes by rolling the bike back and forth by gently applying the brake lever. Check that the brake pads have not worn out. Make sure the chain is working efficiently with the relevant lubricant applied.

​We hope you have enjoyed our article on Sharpening Up Your Mountain Biking Skills and found it helpful and informative. A guest blog from Mike Murray at Road and Mountain Bike Reviews

Are you wondering why you should invest in a contemporary foldable bike as compared to a traditional bike? Then, you have landed here correctly. Read the following reasons to help you understand:
​
#1: Easy to Operate
First thing first, a foldable bike is quite easy-to-operate. It is only a matter of 10 to 15 minutes, and then you are good to ride on this modern-day cycle. Honestly speaking, you don’t even need to learn the knack of folding & unfolding. Once you have tried the process, you will know how to correctly erect or fold the cycle in just a few minutes. Still, if you find any trouble, you can watch a tutorial online or read the user’s manual that comes with a foldable bike. You don’t need to stress out because practice makes the man perfect. And also, there is no rocket science involved to quickly unfold & fold on the go.

​#2: Easy to Transport
Foldable bikes are quite convenient and portable. These bikes are an excellent mode of transport plus they are easy to transport themselves. If you desire to travel around your city, explore a new place, go on a weekend trip with your friends, then a foldable bike is best suited for your needs. Since it is a compact cycle, you can carry it without any tension. You wouldn’t need a full parking space for your bicycle. You can easily fold and move it. Moreover, you can surely fit this cycle on trains, buses, or even the smallest of car boots.

#3: Vast Choice of Styles
When it comes to a foldable bike, you can expect a wide variety of designs, styles, colours, shapes, etc. You can invest in a foldable bike that can work well with your commuting needs and personal preferences. In the contemporary era, it is not a challenging thing to visit stores or buy a cycle online. You can expect multiple styles starting from sleek to retro-inspired and vintage. You can even opt for a lightweight folding bicycle. Moreover, view the folding bicycle range at Ecosmo for great quality foldable bikes and numerous styles.

#4: No Storage Issue
You can surely invest in a foldable bike as you don’t have to expect any storage issue. It is a home-friendly bike that you can conveniently and safely secure even if you have a small storage space. Many tiny home residents believe that a foldable bike is a practical solution as it doesn’t take much of the precious floor space. You can even hang that on a wall, fit under the stairs cupboard, a porch, etc. Similarly, when it comes to the limited parking area, a foldable bike is the best choice for you.

#5: Strong Second-Hand Resale Market
Investing in a folding bike is costly, especially when you are looking for a premium model, high-end brand, and great style. But, the bike has a popular second-hand resale market. You can sell this cycle for a great price. Contrarily, if you invest in a traditional bicycle, you will notice it depreciated quickly. And it can approximately lose up half of its value. However, investing in a slightly higher price tag bike can be advantageous for you in the long-run.

Suitable for All Heights
One of the best things about Wisper 806 is that it is suitable for everyone regardless of their height. A lot of riders which are small in stature often have trouble finding the right bike for them. But with Wisper 806, they don’t have to worry about any of it. The seats and handle of the bike have a great adjusting range, and you can adjust it according to your liking. It is also suitable for people big in height as the seat and the handle can be pulled up as well.
​
No Storage Issue
For some commuters getting a vehicle can be tricky if they don’t have storage space. With the help of a Wisper 806, you don’t have to worry about the storage. The bike is foldable, and you can easily keep it in your house when you are not using it. You can also use this bike when you are going to the mountains or on a road trip as it will easily fit in the back of your car’s trunk.

Time-Saving
Well, it is true that Wisper 806 may not be as quick as other automobiles; it will still get you to your destination much faster and safer. In a lot of big cities around the world, traffic has always been a big issue, and if you are commuting on a car during peak hours, then you are bound to get late. With an electric bike like Wisper 806, you can easily make your way in between bigger vehicles and can get to your destination in time without stressing about the traffic.

Environment Friendly
As global warming is becoming a real threat, it is time for us to take small steps and promote an eco-friendly environment. Switching to Wisper 806 from your car or motorbike will allow you to consume less and cleaner energy. Once you have shifted to this bike, you would not have to worry about burning fuel or remitting unfriendly gases. Opting for a wisper bike may be a small step towards fighting global warming, but it is always the small step that makes the difference

By Alex Bristol

Alex is a cycling expert at Pedallers and focuses on reviewing road bike accessories and general cycling. She searches for the most up to date products that match the needs of cyclists across the world. Whether it's recent news or the best bike set-ups, Alex is a trusted source for anything around cycling.

There are lots of great health benefits that come with cycling, and that’s one reason why more and more people are now choosing to cycle to and from work each day. It’s something that you should think about as well, especially if you’re looking to get in shape and improve your health. 
 
We’re going to give you all the information you need about the health benefits associated with cycling to work and how you might feel the difference in your daily life. So read on now to find out what you need to know in order to make the right decision for you. 
 
It’s a Great Way of Burning Calories and Staying Fit 
 
First and foremost, cycling is very good for you and your general health because it provides your body with a cardiovascular workout. It really is as simple as that, but what does that mean for your health over the long-term? For a start, it means that you’re going to be buring calories every day as you cycle to work in the morning and back home again in the evening. It also means that you’re going to be able to stay fit and healthier for longer because you’ll be active on a daily basis. 
 
You’ll Sharpen Your Memory Over Time 
 
You can even sharpen your mind and increase your brain power throughout the working day if you start it by cycling to work. There has been research done that shows people who do moderate daily exercise experience improvements in overall brain performance, as well as preventing signs of cognitive decline. When your mind is sharper and more alert throughout the working day, you’ll perform to a higher standard in your job and you’ll achieve the outcomes in your career that you’re aiming for. 
 
Get Some Fresh Air 
 
Simply getting some fresh air is going to be great for your body and your general health. Sitting in a traffic jam usually means that you’re breathing in the fumes of the cars around you and that’s no good for your lungs or respiratory system. You won’t have to worry about that if you’re breathing fresh air and cycling to work instead. And you’re not likely to get stuck in many traffic jams when you’re on your bike, which is definitely a major bonus if you ask me. 
 
Improve Your Joint Mobility 
 
Joint mobility is another major reason why you might want to start cycling to work each day. When you use your joints and the muscles that make them work, you’ll be keeping them active and in use. That means they’ll become strengthened and able to stay healthy for longer. As you get older, you’ll realize just how important it is to have strong and supple joints. It’s one of those things that you take for granted until it stops working properly, so don’t let that happen if you can help it. 
 
Cycling Makes You Happy 
 
Cycling to work will make you happy in a number of ways. First of all, it means avoiding endless traffic jams and the general stress of driving during rush hour. And it’s also known that moderate exercise each day leads to happier people. It can improve your sleep patterns, reduce any symptoms of depression and generally make you feel better about yourself. Exercise does so much more than the physical benefits we associate with it. 
 
It Can Reduce Feelings of Stress and Anxiety 
 
One of the major ways in which cycling to work and being active each day will help you and your mental health is by reducing the feelings of stress and anxiety you experience each day. Research has shown that when you’re active on a regular basis, you feel less stressed and less anxious. So if those are problems that you experience from time to time, jumping on your bike to commute to work could really help you a lot. 
 
It Eliminates Tech Distractions for a While 
 
If you’re someone who’s constantly feeling distracted by technology, cycling to work allows you to take a break from that. Bikes don’t tend to have complex infotainment systems and docks for your phone the way modern cars do. That time away from technology is refreshing and it’s the perfect way to begin the day. 
 
There are so many benefits that come from cycling to and from work each day, and even if all the health benefits above don’t persuade you, there are financial benefits too. So if you want to save money and improve your health at the same time, maybe it’s time for you to get on your bike. ​

Stationary Bike 
A stationary bike offers the rider with the cheapest, most stable and a no hassle way of cycling indoors.  The same exercise bike found in your local gym can also be purchased for using in the home. 
 
Advice for using a Stationary bike 
 
Seat: One of the most common mistakes that people make is failing to adjust the seat.  It only takes a few seconds. However, it can make a massive difference to a workout. 
 
Stretching Out:  Spend five minutes stretching your muscles. Cycling is a low form of exercise and an individual must make sure they are fully stretched out before beginning their workout.  
 
Warm Up: Once an individual has spent five minutes stretching, they then need to spend five minutes warming up on the bike. After five minutes start picking up the pace for a real workout. 
 
Riding Position: It’s vital for the cyclist to keep a good riding position. Keep the back straight and aligned with the seat.  
 
Resistance Training: Pedalling on a bike is a really good start. However, changing the pace within the training session from hard, to medium and slow for a specific  period of time will help the rider get the maximum out of the session.  
 
Why should you Cycle Indoors? 
 
Body Toning 
Cycling indoors is a great way of toning the quads and glutens. Not only will cycling tone your lower body but it will also tone the upper body, if the rider starts to incorporate resistance bands or hand weights into their workout. 
 
Low Impact  
Cycling is a low impact sport that is ideal for individuals who want to build up their fitness levels at their own pace.  
 
Improving Sleep 
Indoor cycling is a brilliant form of exercise if someone is having trouble sleeping. Cycling can also improve breathing, that will in turn helps an individual have a better night’s sleep.  
 
Stress 
Indoor cycling is a great way of reducing stress and letting an individual forget about the stresses that life can sometimes bring.  

We hope you have enjoyed Road and Mountain Bike Reviews article on indoor cycling and found it helpful and informative.  Mike Murray ​

This book is about the epic, 6000 mile, cycle trip from New York City to Seattle and then to the Mexican border undertaken by adventurer Leon McCarron. His route takes the reader through a less touristy USA of small towns, general stores and farms. This journey is not about speed and setting records; it is about the places and people of America. It is a nicely detailed and highly readable book for anyone inspired by the idea of crossing America by bike.

Leon McCarron has done some pretty amazing things in his life. He walked across China and trekked 1000 miles through the Empty Quarter. His first experience of adventure was this bicycle trip across America, inspired, like so many others by not wanting to settle for a desk job. Leon's mind was also full of the adventures of Lewis and Clark, the men who led the first expedition across the western part of the USA in the early 1800s.

The author comes across as someone you would enjoy being friends with, a nice guy, and a great companion for a long bike trip. This is one of the things that makes this book so enjoyable because the friendly and laid back tone makes you care about Leon's journey. It is also that he is very aware of his shortcomings and not afraid to admit them, such as knowing little about how to fix bikes and carrying too much luggage. He misses his girlfriend and goes through the emotional dilemma of wanting to do the trip, but also wanting a life with her.

The other strength of the book is that the pace is slower than many similar books; there is no race against time. That means there is more detail in the descriptions of the landscapes, encounters with people and what these parts of America are really like. You get quite a vivid picture of a USA that you might not be as familiar with, largely away from the big tourist attractions. For example, Leon was quite taken by the General Stores in upstate New York. These shops are old fashioned icons in small town America. He recalls sitting on the porch of one for hours with a coffee, talking to locals. Leon even rides in the boxcar of a freight train just because it seemed like fun and it was the classic American hobo experience.

As you would expect he meets a lot of people on this journey. Although he set off on his own he spends a lot of time with other long distance cyclists. There are many interesting encounters with locals. I loved when he stopped at an Irish bar in Shipton where he was bought drinks all night because it was the first time that a real Irish person had ever been in the bar!

There is one particularly shocking encounter with locals that is written so brilliantly that it had my heart racing to find out how it was going to play out. I am not going to ruin it for you by saying anything more, but it is a superb piece of dramatic travel writing. 

Leon also experiences a tornado, an encounter with a bear and comes close to wild buffalo. This book pretty much covers all the possible adventures you could imagine on an American cycle trip!

This is another classic of adventure cycle writing, made all the better for the author's likability, attention to detail and good story telling.

You can purchase the book from Amazon by clicking on the image below:

Check out my other cycling book reviews

I chatted with Sue Steward, the manager and owner of The Four Seasons Hotel at Loch Earn in Perthshire. Although Scotland is currently in lock down and we should absolutely not be travelling beyond our local areas there will be a time when we can travel in Scotland again. It's good for our wellbeing to dream and plan for that time, so I asked Sue about her favourite walks and cycles in the area.  

Me: Once the situation we find ourselves in is over a lot of us will be desperate to get back out into Scotland's magnificent countryside. What would be your number one recommendation for a hike that shows off the beauty of your local area? 
 
Sue: There are lots of walks to enjoy but in my opinion, you cannot beat the old railway line walk that runs parallel with Loch Earn. It heads westward and the views are breathtaking.

Me: And on the same theme is there a particular cycling route that you would recommend? 
 
Sue: Well, the railway line is being converted into a cycle path as we speak! This will eventually join onto NCN7, parts have been completed but still some to do. It will be a great route when it is soon complete – maybe by the summer months when this madness is over?

Me: When you get a day off/morning off from your busy schedule where do you go for a walk to find a bit of peace and calm?
 
Sue: If my time is limited Finn (my beautiful black lab) and I head over to the golf course but if I have longer then we head a bit further afield. Either to Glen Ogle which is the forestry commission, Glen Lednock in Comrie, or to Lady Mary's walk in Crieff (the latter being a riverside walk) so it really varies. I’m so lucky to live somewhere with all these beautiful walking trails on my doorstep!

Me: From looking at a map the south road along the shore of Loch Earn looks like it would be a wonderful cycle. Would you recommend this? 

Sue: Yes, this is a very popular and safe route - it is a walker/cyclist friendly road. The path is a bit up and down so is not straightforward it stays fun and interesting.

Me: The road on the north shore is the A85. Is this an okay road to cycle on?

Sue: This is a popular road too as flatter. You can in fact walk/cycle all round Loch Earn - a little over 20km 

Me: Are there any secret things that readers might not have heard of, such as ruins, standing stones or beauty spots that can be found on a hike or bike ride? 

Sue: Yes, we have a Fairy Stone in St Fillans! This is a large stone that, according to local folklore, has fairies living in it. Our little town made the news back in 2005 when a building developer had his plans denied so as not to disturb the fairies! There is the old Stewarts of Ardvorlich ruined cemetery in the golf course and numerous waterfalls along the way.

Me: Is there a particular food and/or drink special to the area that you would recommend trying? 

Sue: Our nearest whisky distillery (Glenturret) is in Crieff so its always worth a visit – when in Scotland and all that! I would say our shortbread is to die for – but I may be biased! We also have artisan food producers in the area; Strathearn Cheese and Wildhearth Sourdough plus Comrie Butcher which is an award-winning butcher. Again, I’m so lucky to live in an area with such amazing local produce. It is usually easier to shop local than at big supermarket chains which I love.

Me: I do have a particular love of combining cycling with coffee and cake stops. Where does the best coffee and cake in your area?
 
Sue:  If I want to treat myself then I head in to Comrie to Hansens Kitchen - all is home-made and their yummy cakes change daily… It’s definitely worth a visit. Although, as I mentioned you can get some delicious shortbread and coffee back at the hotel after a long cycle!​​

The Four Seasons Hotel is located in St Fillans on Loch Earn, around 12 miles west of Crieff.

This incredible underground world can be found on the Union Canal, right next to Falkirk High train station. It's a tunnel with a special atmosphere thanks to the lighting, the cave-like structure and a fascinating history that includes Burke and Hare. 

Getting here
If you cycle around 25 miles along the Union Canal from Edinburgh you will arrive at the Falkirk Tunnel. Or you can take a train to Falkirk High and from the south platform it is just a five minute walk.
​
What's it like to visit?
This is so much more than just a tunnel. It feels like a cave with the rough natural stone interior that was blasted out by navvies around 200 years ago. There is a hint of Bond villain lair- you can almost imagine patrol boats with armed guards cruising by. The walls glisten with trickling water and a hole in the roof has a continuous stream pouring through it.

The canal was meant to be an overland route, but the owner of Callendar House, William Forbes, said it would ruin his view so successfully campaigned to have it diverted under Prospect Hill. Construction of the tunnel took place between 1818 and 1822.

It is 630 meters long and can be a challenge to cycle through as the towpath is cobbled, slippery, has puddles and is only 5 feet wide. Pushing your bike through it can give you more time to appreciate the unique environment of the tunnel.

When the tunnel first opened there was such a thing as passenger canal boats. Some people were afraid to travel through the tunnel so horse transport was provided so that they could get off the boat and meet it at the other end.

I can understand why they did not want to go through the tunnel. Moving from daylight and pleasant countryside into a dark cave-like structure is disconcerting. Although the lighting is much improved today it still feels dark and the roof is low. Plus there is a spooky association with Burke and Hare, the murderers who stalked people in  early-1800s Edinburgh, killed them and sold them to the anatomy school. The two men had moved from Ireland to Scotland to work on the canal and the construction of the tunnel.

The tunnel really is worth a visit. I just loved the stark contrast between the bright and bucolic surroundings at the mouth of the tunnel and the mysterious, dark world that you step into. It's not one of Scotland's most obvious attractions, but you will not be disappointed if you put this on your itinerary.