How is your experiment with chocolate milk as a recovery drink going? I can report that my use has resulted in a weight gain. Of course, I have used all types of chocolate; ice cream, candy, cake, etc. This and a recent vacation where I was on a three meals a day plan have led to an extra fifteen pounds. I am working on getting back down to near 190 by TOSRV.

Speaking of one's weight, I would like to pass along some information I presented at our annual bike meeting in March. According to the Road Rider Publication we can smooth out our ride by selecting tire sizes and pressure to match our size. In my opinion, 700x20CC tires with high pressure are only for racing. With our Ohio rough roads a narrow tire can lead to control problems with road cracks and bumps. For the average rider 23CC tires are a better choice. For those over 180 pounds 25CC should be a consideration, while 28CC tires should be an option for those over 205 pounds. Many western states rides recommend nothing less than 28CC tires on their tours. I personally saw several riders go down when their narrow tires hit cracks on the Tour `d Wyoming. Also, there is no reason for the average rider to run more than 95 PSI for most riding. Try maintaining 90 PSI front and 95 PSI rear with the right tire selection for your size. You should roll just as fast as you think you do with higher pressure. You'll descend and corner faster, suffer fewer punctures, and your tires will last up to five times longer.

Thanks to all of you who attended our annual bike meeting. I very much enjoyed talking with you. Thanks also to Phil Schumacer of A Gear Higher for a super presentation on Bicycle basics.

For those `new' riders who have asked for some entry level riding, we hope to offer some rides dedicated to you this summer. I have asked ride leader Mary Beth Blome to provide scheduled rides and assistance to those who prefer this level. Of course, all of our daily ride and tour leaders welcome new riders. They will be happy to assist you with basics to get you up to speed. We have a number of leaders and assistants on many daily rides that can work with you as you progress. Until we publish the new rider schedule, just contact me for these rides dedicated to newer riders.

May is National Bike Month. Check www.bikeleague.org for further details. Many states have made this a focus. To my knowledge Ohio has no bike activities scheduled. For our part I would suggest that we all work to make bikers as friendly as possible to the general public. I have seen the recent article about a fence being placed across the Newark bike trail and I am aware that 1375 feet of the Ohio to Erie trail in Madison county must be moved 10 feet to the south because of an easement issue. Lets go out of OUR way to show ourselves in a good light to the Ohio public. Remember in Ohio a bicycle is a vehicle subject to all traffic laws.

E-mail me at bicycling (AT) outdoor-pursuits or call 614/877-3085 with your comments or suggestions.