Light & Motion Urban 500 & VIS 500 Bike Lights - Review

The Light & Motion bike lights, particularly the traditional flashlight-shaped versions, have appealed to me for their multi-use features. Stow it in your pocket for night-time neighborhood walks, or swap between bikes. They also function as a light inside the tent or navigating a dark campground. 

I have used the Urban 500 (mint-colored model) for nine years, purchased locally to primarily extend the commuting season after the autumn time change. In recent years, it has allowed me to ride from a home office for exercise. It's been an amazing, reliable light, and the strap recently broke in the commonly used hole. Light & Motion sells parts so it was an easy repair. 

Both 500 lumen lights have four settings: 3 variable brightness modes and one flashing mode. They both share the same button switch - depress to switch on the brightest setting and cycle through to the flash mode. Hold button down longer and the light turns off. I use the second setting - 300 lumens - the most to light completely dark rail trails. There's enough brightness to spot unlit walkers, cyclists, and the occasional cat, deer, raccoon, and other nocturnal creatures. Both have amber side lights, handy for illuminating the handlebar, and long battery life (and similar indicator) though in 25F weather understandably, a bit less.

A couple years ago, fearing the Urban's eventual demise, I picked up a discounted VIS 500 (red color) as a backup, taking a chance on a new model. 

The VIS 500 has different features; the extended battery life is noticeable. I presume that's due to newer technology. The beam pattern is not as broad so there's distinctly less peripheral lighting, thus less awareness of woodland nighttime critters. Another feature, deemed for safety, is the lock-out mode. Because it's a nuisance, I keep it unlocked for easier use. The button has taken some getting used to but now that I know the light's nuances, the VIS 500 is part of my regular rotation and was worth the discount.

Light and Motion may be discontinuing both models, though, in the future, I wouldn't hesitate to stick with the brand.

Three Day Dahon Adventure During Peak Foliage

I prefer to streamline luggage into as few bags as possible-less to keep track of.

In late October, peak foliage and weather aligned for a two-night, 3-day one-way ride on my Dahon Boardwalk. It was also an experiment, hauling extra gear on small wheels.  As mentioned before, I enjoy taking Amtrak, especially with a folding bike, because I avoid the standard bicycle reservation. Folding bikes are treated as luggage. The goal this time was to ride more of the Empire State Trail, a mostly trail-only segment from Hudson, NY northward, then explore the Saratoga Battlefield - a place I've meant to visit for 30+ years.

After several hours of staring out the train window at the spectacular fall color, anxious to ride, I arrived at 3 pm in Hudson, NY. Time was of the essence. I had 3 hours of daylight to ride 17 miles to a motel. 

The sunshine and warmth were intoxicating. I immediately stumbled onto these abandoned Hudson River fishing camps and I remembered something about their controversial removal. I couldn't linger, so I immediately connected with the Empire Trail—straight up a hill!

The Electric Trolley portion of the Empire State Trail was a gentle roller coaster, running beneath powerlines, overall hillier than a standard rail trail, yet the route was straightforward with adequate signage. The amount of on-road sections were more frequent than I expected, however, lower traffic, and winding through the colorful landscape beside a river had its merit. Pushing daylight, I managed to buy food and arrive at a motel by sunset.

I had invited a friend to join me, but she wasn't feeling well. I'm comfortable traveling solo so I don't let the lack of companionship deter me. It's important to keep exploring, and I certainly couldn't pass up this opportunity during peak foliage!

The next morning was chilly but I came prepared, so with a little backtracking I was soon back on route, heading northwest towards Albany. More rollers, more sublime scenery, including riding beside beautiful lakes.

Nassau Lake.

By late morning, I rode by more urban areas, connected with neighborhood roads, and eventually lost a lot of elevation in Rensselaer/Troy communities, arriving at the Hudson River. 

From there it was a familiar route, heading northward on the Mohawk Hudson Hike Bike Trail to my accommodation in Troy. Well ahead of check-in time, I decided to enjoy the last 10 miles.

I noticed that my front bag was coming apart, though it would probably hold up for the rest of the trip. Between the gravel trail, some dirt roads, the possibly overstuffed bag unlatched from its Klickfix attachment a couple times, though not dangerously so - I wind the shoulder strap around the handlebars for extra security. I caught the problem immediately in both instances and stopped to reattach it firmly in place. 

I spent the next several miles savoring the sunshine, thinking it was probably time to investigate using a front rack. Initially, I didn't want to add more weight to a 30 lb. bicycle - also carrying it on board trains - but redistributing the weight near the front wheel would likely improve handling and visibility, offsetting added rack weight. I already own midsize panniers. I also worried that the plastic Klickfix attachment might fail under too much load - the problem sometimes with proprietary gear. A small duffel or trunk bag on the rear rack could further enhance carrying capacity. 

Entering Troy, I found a riverside spot and enjoyed an early dinner at Browns Brewing due to the lack of eateries near my accommodation.

Afterward, I pedaled on, and scouted the B&B spot, but still early for check-in, nearby I discovered an entrance to Oakwood Cemetery. I pushed my bike up the steep road until gaining the plateau. What a stunning, winding, beautifully landscaped cemetery with many old graves, gates, monuments, and churches! I could spend hours wandering the grounds and put it on my radar to return someday.

Uncle Sam Bikeway. 

Upon my descent, I also found the Uncle Sam Bikeway, a trail I would take the next morning northward that would bypass narrow roads through neighborhoods.

Between the cemetery and the newly discovered trail, it felt like gifts. I allow extra time and/or don't focus on riding all day because I thoroughly enjoy finding new treasures.

The third day started wonderfully, chatting with an English couple at breakfast, setting off riding the colorful Uncle Sam Bikeway, then northward on the Champlain Canalway Trail.

The trail ended and I followed Empire State Trail signs northward on secondary roads, hugging the west side of the Hudson River. In Stillwater, I ate lunch in a lovely riverside park complete with a reconstructed blockhouse, watching and listening to geese and ducks in the water. 

Five miles later, I heard a bang and my bike was forced to a halt. Yikes, this wasn't good! I got off the road into the grass, and inspected the flat rear tire, discovering a 1.5" slash. Not good at all. Checking the road berm, I found sharp, flat scissors. Somehow, I hadn't seen them. I spent the next hour, dismantling the rear wheel, not an easy task, but I had brought a special long-handled 14/15mm wrench for axle and pedal removal, booted the gash with sections of blown tube, and inserted a new tube. Unfortunately, as suspected, I couldn't inflate the tire much without the new tube bulging through the cut. 

Two vehicles had stopped to see if I was okay. I assured them and waved them on. After the "repair" I rolled the bike - at least it was rollable - back to an intersection where a route headed more directly to Saratoga Springs and the Amtrak Station where I had a return reservation later that day. With my thumb out, the second car immediately pulled over (a vehicle with a bike on the back - yay!) and Anita brought me to a bike shop in Saratoga Springs. Unfortunately, the mechanics didn't have a narrow enough tire, so Anita then drove me to the Amtrak Station, gave me her bag of leftover pretzels, and felt bad about leaving me there 2 hours before departure. Holy cow, what a kind woman! 

My adventure proved that it's worth allowing extra time and cyclists are generally wonderful people. I texted Anita when I got home so she knew I was safe. I had also invited her to come and ride with me in Vermont. I plan to pay this favor forward to others.

As for visiting the Saratoga Battlefield, I'm monitoring the fall weather. I now know a lovely B&B place to return to for a fresh redo of that day. 

Coffeeneuring 2024 - More Gouache Exploration, Rides 1-4

 #1 Latte at Specs Coffee in Winooski. It's difficult to take art photos with a phone camera...the paper is white.

Learning to Paint with Gouache

In my twelfth year of the Coffeeneuring Challenge, I've been inspired by Mary's current theme: latte art.  I was successful with last year's simple mug art because I could focus on one image. I want to learn painting but not be overwhelmed by 7 complicated pieces of art. I struggle with what my style should be. Whimsical, realistic, detailed, or how about using unusual colors? I have enjoyed gouache's bold, flat colors so whatever I come up with it's sure to be colorful!

Since my theme requires latte art, I also see this year's challenge as a return to coffee shops. It's been since 2014! For many years, plus during the pandemic, I embraced the Coffee Shop Without Walls opportunities for it's flexibility, where I drank more tea because it was easier and I often went out after work where drinking caffeine was not feasible, nor were coffee shops generally open. Weekend outings are required, though I see this year as an opportunity to try other beverages. What's a cortado? Will I like matcha? One thing I know: a yummy pumpkin beverage is on the agenda. 

1. The Place: Specs Coffee in Winooski

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Latte
Observation: What a beautiful fall day! It was sunny and 55F. 
Total Miles: 16

Wouldn't it be great to request your own latte art? Since I didn't receive any, I painted my own. I also like the addition of a simple, colorful background

I tried out a double-thick poncho I'd created last year. It worked well - my rendition of Vermont chic.

That's my Peugeot on the right.

Wow, a chewy, airy donut!

2 . The Place: Scout Coffee on North Ave. Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Chai Tea Latte
Observation: Another sunny day, chai apparently isn't served with latte art, but I created what I wanted to see!
Total Miles: 11

Meh, day-old almond croissant.

I like the misshapen mug rim.

The autumn colors were still brilliant, even evident across Lake Champlain in New York.

3 . The Place: Barrio Bakery in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 26

Drink: Cappuccino
Observation: Uber quiet shop. Weird vibe, so definitely wouldn't return. Tasty cappuccino. I bought a small bag of day old pastries.
Total Miles: 16

I need to go back to a simpler, one-color background. Painting is always a work in progress.

This was a tasty, grainy pumpkin latte.

Kru Coffee is one of my favorite coffee shops because of varied clientele, and old building location, with the most interesting art and lighting.

Coffee cup lights!

I stopped by to visit #2 son, who showed me his recent single-speed bike build. I thought 5 bikes in my own stable was sufficient, but I've lost count of how many he has.

4 . The Place: Kru Coffee in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 27

Drink: Pumpkin Spice Latte
Observation: Kru is known for great pastries. Unfortunately, when I show up at noon they are sold out! A swirl of color in the cup instead of art. 
Total Miles: 12

A Collection of Bicycle Bags Suits my Style

 

Because I have five bicycles and I'm a regular rider, I have a broad collection of bags to suit every equation. Ready for a huge grocery shop, ladies night out, or coffee outside? I've got it all covered. A few special items stand out though, for their versatility and ease of use.

The above photos show the value and versatility of small panniers. I initially created these simple, light, and effective mini-panniers for my Dahon to avoid heal strike, but they've easily become my favorite Dutch style - connected - little gems. They're easy to strap on any rear rack, using adjustable buckles and hook and loop fasteners.

I've created a few of my own. 

Stem bags, snack bags, feed bags, stem caddy - whatever you want to call those highly functional tube-shaped bags that secure to handlebar and stem - are hands down my favorite storage device for their functionality. I have one on all my bikes and have used them for storing hankies, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, phone, beer can, thermos, lip balm, tiny purse - you name it. One of the most versatile bike accessories out there - everyone's selling their version.

Again, I repurposed a tech wallet into a fanny pack/bar bag to suit my Rivendell, but it's another highly usable bag, especially for travel. I sling it around my body for safety while handling bike gear, or strap it onto the handlebars while cycling, and/or as a waist pack. I have consistently enjoyed the padded pocket for phone, stow change or valuables inside the zip pocket, divvy credit cards, mask, and cash into the 3 mesh pockets or hand sanitizer and lip balm into the external zip pocket. I especially love the unique rose-patterned fabric.

I picked up a discontinued/discounted Po Campo children's bar bag, and with a sewing adjustment, it's become a tiny purse that easily detaches at my destination. With a pullout strap, I loop it around my body when I only require 3-4 small items.

I don't think you can go wrong with certain multifunctional bags, whether it's for shopping, traveling, attending outdoor events - we all need ways to carry things - that make our time outside more organized and safe.

What special bags are your favorites?

A Pennsylvania and New York Rail Trail Vacation

A section of the Walkill Valley Rail Trail.

With a week's vacation, our goal was to explore some of Pennsylvania's rail trails. Armed with Rails to Trail's Pennsylvania guidebook, we were flush with choices.  After last year's vacation reroute, I marveled at the perfect mid-September forecast ahead of us.

My husband did most of the driving, though I will take over if he's tired. Both of us suffer back and sciatica-type leg discomfort - oh the joys of an older body - so 5 hours in the car was plenty. We set up camp and rode a portion of the Walkill Valley Rail Trail into New Palz, NY to stretch our legs. I wanted to go farther, show him an old neighborhood I'd seen on a previous trip, but it was unappealing to cook dinner in the dark.

We have done many separate bike trips. He's retired and leaves for weeks each year, while I take advantage of weekend overnights using Amtrak. We intersect on day rides and my yearly vacation, so sometimes we get excited to show each other our special finds.

Riding a lovely section of the Switchback Rail Trail in Jim Thorpe.

The next morning we detoured just a few miles to check out New Jersey's high point, an amazing stone tower on a ridge, then headed through the Delaware Water Gap. As the copilot, I'm phone researching, giving driving directions, sometimes quoting regional historical facts, thumbing through the PA guidebook etc. generally exploring. I discovered a bike trail while traveling through the gap - an idea in case we returned the same way.

The day's focus was getting to Jim Thorpe in Pennsylvania, arranging a bike shuttle to ride the Lehigh Gorge, a ride my husband claimed I would like, walked around the touristy, but interesting old mining community with houses wedged into steep hillsides, then locating a campground. With a little daylight left, we pedaled a few miles of the Switchback Trail through rhododendron forest, topping out on a grassy dam.

Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail. 

With continued marvelous weather on the next day, we boarded the shuttle bus and rode 25 miles back to Jim Thorpe. I especially enjoyed the upper, shaded portion. The river was a constant companion though distant and mostly inaccessible, except for two lovely, trailside waterfalls. I noticed rail ties are hidden beneath earth and undergrowth, creating a berm beside the trail. This seems to be a common practice among rail to trail conversions. What do you do with thousands of potentially hazardous ties?

Pine Creek Trail, day 1.

By far, the Pine Creek Rail Trail two-day journey was our favorite vacation spot. It's a popular trip, aided by shuttles, so there are numerous ways to make this 62 mile adventure your own. Only two plus hours from Jim Thorpe, we stayed in Jersey Shore, the downstream end, and arranged shuttle pick up for the next morning.

It was a interesting shuttle upstream while our guide pointed out resupply stops as we let out and picked up other bike travelers. At the trail entrance, we took our time packing, used provided facilities, and set out. The trail surface was sublimely smooth stone dust, edged by wooden rails, mostly treelined, and an almost imperceptible downhill gradient. We took our time, stopped in little communities for a snack, but in general just admired the river, water birds, and had long conversations. We were in second growth forest as the railroad formerly transported harvested timber to a larger market.

Pettecote Junction campground.

There were a few primitive campsites that we considered, but we stayed mid-way at Pettecote Junction, a private, full service place, complete with RVs, cabins, and even a caboose for overnight accommodation. There were numerous available riverside tent spots, so we bike overnighters spread out to allow ample space. We have camped in our younger years at free or forest service sites with minimal facilities, but as we age, and expense is not a big concern, we prefer a hot shower at the end of the day.

Pine Creek Trail, day 2.

The second day was uniquely different as young American Sycamore lined the trail, providing riverside views beneath their canopy. 

And lovely yellow flowers edged the trail. Trees were just beginning their colorful autumnal plumage.

Ample park benches provided respite. I found the whole journey very contemplative and it was easy to slow down and prolong the 30 miles back to the car. In recent years, I've found 30-40 daily miles more enjoyable, especially as I'm employed, and fitness rides are limited. Flat rail trail journeys are also helpful.

Trail users also appreciate regular bathrooms. Some came with signage! 

Where many rail trails fail, is providing adequate places to refill water bottles. The small towns on this route have tiny grocery stores, yet refuse to let travelers use their tap. Instead they insist on selling plastic water bottles. We made sure to top off our bottles at the campground before setting off.

My Hard Rock was the perfect gravel trail machine. Plus size tires were helpful.

As the day warmed, the lower river widened, and we enjoyed grand vistas, and longer bridges.

At journeys end, the parking lot was downright HOT. We dried the wet tent while packing everything up, then moved the car to a shady corner for a picnic lunch.

Ironton Rail Trail.

Without any specific must-do trails, the next day we headed back to Eastern Pennsylvania, riding the Ironton Rail Trail, exploring the old cement sites. The trail passes through several parks with historical signs and traverses between neighborhoods. Clearly, the locals regularly use the path. Of special note was  the spur section, unfortunately bordering a gun club, with disturbing repeated loud firearms so close that we couldn't carry on a conversation.

Plainfield Township Recreational Trail.

Later the same day we stopped to traverse out and back on the 6+ mile Plainfield Township Recreational Trail. This corner of Pennsylvania is slate country. We saw numerous rocky outcroppings. In general, the trail was a little rough, but we made it work. 

As mentioned previously, the copoilot - yours truly - sorted out which trails to ride while enroute.

An example of slate along the Plainfield Township Trail.

McDade Trail.

The McDade Trail in the Delaware Water Gap had appealed to us because of it's varied terrain so we retraced our steps, camped nearby, and set out the next morning. To avoid one end with extreme elevation gain (not a rail trail!) we started at about mile 6 of its 31 mile length.

McDade Trail.

It was rough terrain for the first couple miles, but thankfully smoothed out over time. Single track edged soybean fields, or through open woodland. Sometimes we traversed gravel paths, or up and down ravines and over bridges. What a diverse trail! 

At about 13-14 miles, we turned back for an easier cruise back to the car.

The final day we drove partway home and for a break, rode a section of the Empire Trail near Fort Edward, but construction meant some of it was rough going. However, it was exercise before the next portion home.

Can't beat a week's worth of dry weather!