Gears and Gear

Ok, so a frequently asked question from my readers: "Do you take your bike to Italy?". Yes, we do. When you do a multi-day tour, you really want your own gear, although you could use a rental.

We use bikes (both tandem and singles) that have frames that come apart and pack into suitcases for the airline. Here's a few pics to give you the idea. We usually assemble / disassemble them in a courtyard in the hotel.






ALL DONE AND STORED AT A HOTEL COURTYARD

All you need to know about Tuscan Vino.

When in town, if you see an establishment named "Enoteca", pull over and go in.



The Black "Rooster"

Designates wines from the Chianti region. Sangiovese varietal. Drink now.

If cycling through Tuscany or Umbria and you see a winery open, pull over immediately for a tasting. Drink now or through 2012.



If the vintner gives you generous pours, takes you on a personal tour of the cellar, and plys you with tons of bruschetta, remember that shipping and duty are more than the cost of the bottle. Drink now.







The Brunello region in Montalcino has nearly 200 producers. Don't try to visit them all by bike, unless you are staying for the season.

Siena Block Party!

Who doesn't love Siena? Better yet, who doesn't love Siena at night? I love the rivalry and pride in each of the 17 traditional neighborhoods. Love it when they parade and fly their colors. We happened upon this large block party in the middle of a piazza while we were there wandering.

Maybe They're Too Wired?

Seriously... we are supposed to be on vacation... but seriously...

Bici in Italia '- Montalcino

Well so many of my readers have asked about the bicycle trip in Italy, so here goes... a diversion from motorcycling, but here it is:

VIEW FROM MY HOTEL ROOM

Currently we are 2 nights in Montalcino the epicenter of Brunello wines! All week long has been Sangiovese (mostly Chianti, as we have ridden from Greve to a convento, then to Sienna, now here..) The wine and food is of course fantastic!

JIM ENJOYS A SNACK

MONASTERY ALONG TODAY'S ROUTE ... MEL GOT HER CHANT ON ...

Today we did a loop ride from town of around 50 Km with quite a bit of climbing. It was truly one of the best rides I have ever done. There were several interesting excursion points including a monastery and an ancient hot spring from the Etruscan era. One of the descents from atop the summit ridge was truly memorable with spectacular views as you hair-pinned down the mountain.

ETRUSCAN HOT SPRING

Jim and Melody at Etruscan Hot Spring



WINE TASTING

This evening featured a wine tasting at the fortress in town, then a spectacular sunset viewed from atop the fort walls.

SUNSET IN MONTALCINO

Today definitely did not suck!