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Cycling is a great way to exercise and can even be combined with chores such as shopping, visiting friends or just getting out. It is a great way to leave the car behind and get in shape.
There are many great sites that promote cycling in the area. Unfortunately, getting around is very difficult as Austin (and North of Austin) is not cycle friendly. Cars are big and they always win.If you start biking around town, there are a few things you will need:
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A helmet (Switching from a bike to a wheel chair is not Bueno)
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Lock (cycle theft is big business and relatively easy)
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Carrier or trailer to haul your items
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(Burley is the best but there are others)
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Water
Parks are usually a great place to go. Unfortunately, you will need to drive to get to most of them unless you are one of the lucky few who live close.
There are many great places to ride off road in Austin. The Barton Creek Greenbelt trail goes from Zilker Park to the 360 bridge and is one of the most beautiful rides I have been on. Make sure that you are in shape as off roading can be very difficult.
Spend a few extra dollars and get a quality bike. Some of the lower brands save you money in the beginning but require much higher maintenance costs as deraileurs, chains and brake cables come out of adjustment and require either time to repair or a trip to the bike shop.
Here are a few great links (if you have more, please send them to me)
My personal favorite is Austinbike.com it is a great off road site listing places you never knew existed!
http://www.austinbikeroutes.com
Williamson County Bike map
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