Handle bars

There are numerous types of handle bars. Made from rubber, foam, leather, cork, you name it. The choice is yours. But what is most important is how they actually feel. So it pays out to go to a bikeshop where you can test several types.
When testing it's important how they feel. Ask yourself the question: "Will I have sour hands after a day's use? Will my hands getting tired quickly? Can I chance my hands in several positions during cycling?"
Last, but not least, the handle bars have to look good. Solid. Thorough. Reliable. Logical. Giving good grip.

Steering Bar

For riding a bike properly it's important to have a good steering bar. Above I've drawn the steering bar of my trekking bike. Originally the bike came with a so-called Butterfly steering bar, but that wasn't strong enough to hold for long. After about 3.000 km cycling it broke. It gave me the opportunity to look for a better alternative. I choose the flat bar of Bontrager, in combination with Ergon GP3 handle bars. They're just great. Although it's said that you have many positions to place your hands on a Butterfly steering bar, I don't miss that at all. These handle bars support your hands where necessary and when you want to change position you can use the soft grip bar ends. I recommend them to everyone who ask my opinion on this subject. You can cycle long distances without getting sour hands or tired wrists.
Pen and ink.

Bicycles and Classic Cars

With a new year ahead of us it's good to make plans what to do or draw. When it comes to drawing I've narrowed the choice of subjects down to two items: every drawing this year posted on my weblog has to be bicycle or classic cars related.
I also plan to make at least four bigger drawings then I usually make. The first sketch is already in the making: it's going to be an Austin Healey 3000. The final result can be seen on my webshop, where you already can find four examples of black and white drawings of classic cars.
Furthermore I plan to make one or two paintings. Subjects are not yet chosen, but that won't be the problem. My main problem will be finding time to make all this stuff.

Maps and Books

Throughout the years I've collected lots of maps and roadbooks. I also like to read stories written by travelling writers, mostly cyclists. In books or on blogs.
As much I like to read the stories and enjoy exploring the maps, best is to travel for yourself. But the usual obligations prevent that: job, kids attending school, lack of good travel gear.
Perhaps it's time to start first by orientating what you might need for travelling, for instance: a good bike.

Happy Newyear

The Road Ahead

Knowing what to expect behind the horizon is many people's wish. Only few people can predict what will cross our paths. Mostly they make a guess to keep the customer satisfied. Maybe it's best to follow your own path heading towards the year to come.
With this thought in mind I made this sketch. May your trip be safe!

Explore

Good knowledge how to read maps and compass is essential to fully explore new territories.
When I was a boy scout I didn't inderstand how to use map and compass. As a result I got lost in the woods during summer camps several times. When I attended my public service in the army I still had troubles, but after a couple of months training I could make the right combination between a detailed map, the compass and the terrain.
Later, doing my divers' test, swimming under water with a compass was suddenly very easy. So the lesson I learned was allways to be patient, eager to learn, do not quit to soon: in the end perseverance pays out.