there is a new bike track and a new side walk running from the photographer into the distance along a road. An overlay text says: Visiting the new bike tracks on Byron Ave.

New Raised Bike Tracks on Byron Ave

November 29, 2023 Hansonthebike 5

Reading Time: 5 minutesPart of Byron Ave in Ottawa recently went through an integrated road, sewer and watermain upgrade. The city used that as an opportunity to upgrade the road with separate bike infrastructure. Let’s have a look!

Time for a new helmet: shall I go urban?

November 12, 2023 Hansonthebike 6

Reading Time: 7 minutesIt was time for me to start looking for a new bicycle helmet. And just like that someone called me and we discussed the Melon helmet this spring and I ended up trying one out. One of the most contentious debates in the world of urban cycling is to wear or not to wear a helmet. While the vast majority of the Dutch absolutely despise the idea, actually can’t even imagine wearing one, the Danes are kind of split about the idea. In Canada it’s generally accepted that you wear a helmet while out on a bike, although there are [Read more…]

Cycling the Ecopista de Évora in Portugal

June 8, 2023 Hansonthebike 5

Reading Time: 8 minutesThroughout Portugal you can find an increasing number of dedicated cycling facilities, often called Ecopistas. This week, we’ll take you on an interesting ride on the Ecopista de Évora in the Portugese province of Alentejo, known for its cork trees, white washed villages, wine and vistas.

Ecopista do Dao paved red.

A bike ride on the Ecopista do Dão in Portugal

May 28, 2023 Hansonthebike 3

Reading Time: 7 minutesThe Ecopista do Dão wasn’t on the agenda for our trip in Portugal, but we found this gem of a rail to trail in the hinterland of Portugal. Closed for trains in 1988, it is now a paved trail through a lovely, peaceful part of rural Portugal.