Google Maps adds Bike Directions!
// March 10th, 2010 // No Comments » // News
If you hadn’t already heard, Google announced that they will be offering bike directions on their Maps application. This is great news for all cyclists, as now you can plot routes and save your maps. It’s also great news for bike commuters looking for better ways to get to and from work. Some of the best news is you’ll get to see bike trails and bike lanes right on the maps. Doing a search for bike directions here in Portland, Maine, I notice that not all bike lanes are on the map yet, but as this service is developed I’m sure we’ll see more.
Good for Google for taking the initiative to promote alternative modes of transportation! (Unfortunately, the maps can’t be embedded so I’ll just provide a link.)
If you’ve read this blog enough, you should know by now that I love a good road trip. I love technology too; I’m a geek at heart. It should come as no surprise, then, that I am completely excited about a little project some of my friends have dreamed up. The good folks at Roadcamp.org are taking a trip from Montreal, Quebec to Austin, Texas on their way to the South by Southwest (SxSW) conference, holding workshops and get-togethers along the way. I had floated a similar idea with some of the participants a year ago or so, but I’m in no way taking credit for this project. In any case, Roadcamp is going to be a blast for all those involved.
Yes, it’s that time of year once again where the temperatures cool, the leaves begin to turn, and the summer fun gear gets put away. Usually, I can get away with riding my bike until early October, just about the time when I finally stop wearing shorts and start in with the long pants. Unfortunately, I’ve had to cut my bike riding season short this year, as I’ve broken two spokes on my rear wheel, rendering it effectively useless until I can find the money to have the wheel respoked and trued. This happened about two weeks ago, so I’ve been off my bike since then, and my body is rebelling about that. I knew when I popped the first spoke that I’d have to hurry to get the wheel fixed, but when I went out for a ride a few weeks ago, and I heard the “twhang” of snapping metal as my rear wheel started to wobble, I knew it was over. I may actually have to get the entire wheel rebuilt, as it seems the spokes are old enough that they’re breaking. That will cost me. So for now, my bike sits sans rear wheel, and I wait until I have enough saved to get it fixed. Who’s up for some skiing?
Hey there! My name is Chris, and I am the Part Time Vagabond. Why part time? Well, while I'm based in the great city of Portland, Maine, where I live and work, I also love to travel. Unfortunately, I haven't yet figured out how to drop everything and travel full time. Meanwhile, I whittle away the hours creating videos, doing social media work, and playing outside. So welcome to Part Time Vagabond, the intersection of travel, outdoor life, and good craft beer. 
