Moving Planet

Moving Planet

2012

2012

How to run Christmas Lights on your Bike

Here's what you need:

1) Bike (I'm assuming you already have one...)

2) Christmas Lights - 25' length. Available in your attic, or any local retailer

3) Decorative Light - Star, Angel, anything that glows. Available at your local retailer

4) Lead-Acid battery - 12V, 7AH, from All Electronics:Battery $22

5) Lighter Jack (optional) - I used a "Y" adapter and just cut off one of the sockets. You can buy a "Y" from All Electronics: Adapter $3.65

6) Inverter - Just a small ~75W inverter should work, like this one from All Electronics: Inverter $14

7) Crimp terminals - Also available at All Electronics:Crimp Terminals $2.50
Total Cost: $20-$60

How to run Christmas Lights on your Bike

Here's what you need:

1) Bike (I'm assuming you already have one...)

2) Christmas Lights - 25' length. Available in your attic, or any local retailer

3) Decorative Light - Star, Angel, anything that glows. Available at your local retailer

4) Lead-Acid battery - 12V, 7AH, from All Electronics:Battery $22

5) Lighter Jack (optional) - I used a "Y" adapter and just cut off one of the sockets. You can buy a "Y" from All Electronics: Adapter $3.65

6) Inverter - Just a small ~75W inverter should work, like this one from All Electronics: Inverter $14

7) Crimp terminals - Also available at All Electronics:Crimp Terminals $2.50
Total Cost: $20-$60

Canada Announces Exit From Kyoto Climate Treaty

OTTAWA — Canada said on Monday that it would withdraw from the Kyoto Protocol, the 1997 treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Under that accord, major industrialized nations agreed to meet targets for reducing emissions, but mandates were not imposed on developing countries like Brazil, China, India and South Africa. The United States never ratified the treaty.

Canada did commit to the treaty, but the agreement has been fraying. Participants at a United Nations conference in Durban, South Africa, renewed it on Sunday but could not agree on a new accord to replace it.

Instead, the 200 nations represented at the conference agreed to begin a long-term process of negotiating a new treaty, but without resolving a core issue: whether its requirements will apply equally to all countries.

The decision by Canada’s Conservative Party government had long been expected. A Liberal Party government negotiated Canada’s entry into the agreement, but the Conservative government has never disguised its disdain for the treaty.

In announcing the decision, government officials indicated that the possibility of huge fines for Canada’s failure to meet emissions targets had also played a role.

“Kyoto, for Canada, is in the past,” the environment minister, Peter Kent, told reporters shortly after returning from South Africa. He added that Canada would work toward developing an agreement that includes targets for developing nations, particularly China and India.

“What we have to look at is all major emitters,” Mr. Kent said.

Under the Kyoto Protocol’s rules, Canada must formally give notice of its intention to withdraw by the end of this year or else face penalties after 2012.

The extent of those penalties, as well as Canada’s ability to redress its inability to meet the treaty’s emission reduction targets, is a matter of some debate.

Mr. Kent said Canada could meet its commitment only through extreme measures, like pulling all motor vehicles from its roads and shutting heat off to every building in the country. He said the Liberal Party had agreed to the treaty “without any regard as to how it would be fulfilled.”

He also said the failure to meet the targets would have cost Canada $14 billion in penalties.

Other estimates, however, put the figure at $6 billion to $9 billion. Matt Horne, the director of climate change at the Pembina Institute, a Canadian environmental group, said the financial penalties might have been further reduced by agreeing to additional reductions. He also dismissed Mr. Kent’s assertions about the steps that Canada would have had to have taken to meet its commitments as extreme misrepresentations.

“It’s not a surprise that it happened,” Mr. Horne said of the government’s decision to withdraw from the treaty. “But it is a bit of surprise that it happened pretty much as they got off the plane from Durban.”

NYtimes

Canada Announces Exit From Kyoto Climate Treaty

OTTAWA — Canada said on Monday that it would withdraw from the Kyoto Protocol, the 1997 treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Under that accord, major industrialized nations agreed to meet targets for reducing emissions, but mandates were not imposed on developing countries like Brazil, China, India and South Africa. The United States never ratified the treaty.

Canada did commit to the treaty, but the agreement has been fraying. Participants at a United Nations conference in Durban, South Africa, renewed it on Sunday but could not agree on a new accord to replace it.

Instead, the 200 nations represented at the conference agreed to begin a long-term process of negotiating a new treaty, but without resolving a core issue: whether its requirements will apply equally to all countries.

The decision by Canada’s Conservative Party government had long been expected. A Liberal Party government negotiated Canada’s entry into the agreement, but the Conservative government has never disguised its disdain for the treaty.

In announcing the decision, government officials indicated that the possibility of huge fines for Canada’s failure to meet emissions targets had also played a role.

“Kyoto, for Canada, is in the past,” the environment minister, Peter Kent, told reporters shortly after returning from South Africa. He added that Canada would work toward developing an agreement that includes targets for developing nations, particularly China and India.

“What we have to look at is all major emitters,” Mr. Kent said.

Under the Kyoto Protocol’s rules, Canada must formally give notice of its intention to withdraw by the end of this year or else face penalties after 2012.

The extent of those penalties, as well as Canada’s ability to redress its inability to meet the treaty’s emission reduction targets, is a matter of some debate.

Mr. Kent said Canada could meet its commitment only through extreme measures, like pulling all motor vehicles from its roads and shutting heat off to every building in the country. He said the Liberal Party had agreed to the treaty “without any regard as to how it would be fulfilled.”

He also said the failure to meet the targets would have cost Canada $14 billion in penalties.

Other estimates, however, put the figure at $6 billion to $9 billion. Matt Horne, the director of climate change at the Pembina Institute, a Canadian environmental group, said the financial penalties might have been further reduced by agreeing to additional reductions. He also dismissed Mr. Kent’s assertions about the steps that Canada would have had to have taken to meet its commitments as extreme misrepresentations.

“It’s not a surprise that it happened,” Mr. Horne said of the government’s decision to withdraw from the treaty. “But it is a bit of surprise that it happened pretty much as they got off the plane from Durban.”

NYtimes

Servidores de Turvo colocam o pé na estrada em prol do meio ambiente

 A proposta de praticar atividade física e chamar a atenção para a preservação ambiental é levada ao pé da letra no Fórum da Comarca de Turvo. Depois de um passeio ciclístico realizado no início deste mês, no último sábado (19/11) um grupo fez uma caminhada por trilha até a gruta Jundiá, na divisa dos municípios de Turvo e Meleiro.

   Vestidos com camisetas estampadas com a frase “Faça algO, preseRve a natUreza, aMe!”, em que se destaca a palavra "Fórum", os 10 servidores tiveram a companhia do promotor de justiça Felipe Costa Brenner. Para evitar o sol forte, o grupo madrugou e saiu às 6h30min. Conseguiu cumprir o trajeto em três horas de caminhada, com direito a uma bela paisagem.

Servidores de Turvo colocam o pé na estrada em prol do meio ambiente

 A proposta de praticar atividade física e chamar a atenção para a preservação ambiental é levada ao pé da letra no Fórum da Comarca de Turvo. Depois de um passeio ciclístico realizado no início deste mês, no último sábado (19/11) um grupo fez uma caminhada por trilha até a gruta Jundiá, na divisa dos municípios de Turvo e Meleiro.

   Vestidos com camisetas estampadas com a frase “Faça algO, preseRve a natUreza, aMe!”, em que se destaca a palavra "Fórum", os 10 servidores tiveram a companhia do promotor de justiça Felipe Costa Brenner. Para evitar o sol forte, o grupo madrugou e saiu às 6h30min. Conseguiu cumprir o trajeto em três horas de caminhada, com direito a uma bela paisagem.

Dicas úteis para quem vai comprar uma bike pela primeira vez

Os 10 Mandamentos do bom comprador

É comum encontramos nas lojas especializadas, ciclistas novatos à procura da sua primeira bicicleta, perdidos no meio de tantas opções e sem a mínima idéia de como usar seu dinheiro da melhor forma possível. Alguns esperam gastar pouco, outros muito, e outros não fazem a menor idéia do quanto custa uma ou de que tipo de bike precisam ou querem.

Só isso já seria suficiente para justificar uma matéria como essa, com dicas e manhas para quem pegou o “bichinho das magrelas” e não sabe por onde começar. Leiam o então esse guia de compras com os 10 Mandamentos do Comprador, baseado em anos de experiência nossa (nos dois lados do balcão) é para você.


1. Escolha sensata

Antes de mais nada é importante lembrar o que estamos sempre falando aqui no site PEDAL: se você está entrando sério no negócio, procure sua bike em uma loja especializada. Supermercados e lojas de departamento raramente possuem pessoal com conhecimento específico em bikes, equipamentos ou mecânica, e acredite, isso faz MUITA diferença. Vale a pena investir nisso se você quer usar a bike para fins esportivos.

2. Qual loja ?

Em praticamente toda cidade há pelo menos uma loja especializada (se não houver uma na sua, procure na cidade mais próxima...). Mas como escolher a melhor para você ?

Entrar na loja errada, com dinheiro para gastar e nenhum conhecimento aumentam as chances de você comprar uma bike que a loja quer se livrar ao invés da que você precisa. Por isso, o ideal é se informar um pouco com a galera do pedal local sobre as lojas da região – quais são as melhores, e por quê. O melhor visual, locação ou os “preços mais baratos” nem sempre são o melhor indicativo de bons serviços. Procure uma loja com atendentes que pedalam, que sejam solícitos e receptivos mas também informados, de preferência que sejam eles próprios bikers.

A loja oferece mecânica qualificada, oficina organizada, boa variedade de componentes, garantias? Que nos desculpem as “bocas”, mas a concorrência só traz benefícios para os clientes - e qualidade, paixão pelo esporte, capricho e organização são mais importantes do que preços baixos... Pesquise bastante e não se arrependa!

3. Informação é poder!

Da mesma forma, vale a pena se informar um pouco sobre bikes, equipamentos e afins antes de “ir pro abraço”. Isso também ajuda a evitar enganos das duas partes (o vendedor e você). Existem também inúmeras “pegadinhas”, as bikes têm centenas de componentes e as gírias e jargões usados também não são poucos. Informação é poder e você deve ao menos ter uma idéia do tipo e nível de bike que você quer.

Isso reduz as chances de você gastar mais do que precisa ou o contrário – terminar com uma bike que não se presta ao uso que você quer dar! Uma dica é começar aqui mesmo, no site PEDAL, pois todos os meses são apresentadas matérias de tecnologia, mecânica, componentes, competições, testes, saúde e treinamento (desculpem o jabá, hehehe....). Outra é procurar um clube de ciclismo, colegas que já pedalem, etc. Nas lojas, não se acanhe nem tenha medo de passar por ignorante: quando tiver dúvidas, pergunte mesmo!

4. Equipamentos indispensáveis

Se você está realmente começando, não se esqueça de considerar, além do valor da bike, o custo dos acessórios que você vai precisar. Alguns são indispensáveis, como o capacete. Pode ser que você pechinche e acabe ganhando, além de um desconto, um suporte e caramanhola instalados na bike. Mas e que tal um capacete (nem pense em não usar!), luvas, uma bermuda, uma bomba e câmaras extras, e um kit de ferramentas e remendos para emergências ? Isso é o básico. Não precisa ser tudo do bom e do melhor, mas ainda assim vai custar alguma coisa e portanto deve entrar nas contas de uma bike nova.

5. Aqui ou lá fora ?

Hoje em dia, com a internet e as facilidades de se comprar no exterior, fica sempre a pergunta: “compro aqui ou trago de fora ?”. Existem vários argumentos e motivos para comprar sua bike em uma loja especializada por aqui: serviço personalizado, garantias, montagem especializada são apenas alguns mais óbvios. A não ser que você saiba bem o que quer e esteja viajando e queira aproveitar a ocasião, é sempre aconselhável dar preferência para as lojas locais.

Se você considerar que é preciso incluir o preço da montagem, as taxas e o transporte, pode descobrir que sai quase empatado em termos de valor – com a comodidade de saber que a garantia é certa e os riscos são menores. Além disso, um bom relacionamento com a “galera” pode começar na hora da compra!

6. Descontos

Cada loja tem um limite para oferecer descontos numa bike, mas geralmente essa margem não é muito grande. Pode-se conseguir descontos melhores em equipamentos e serviços, sobretudo na hora da compra, ou ainda uma condição de pagamento mais “elástica”, mas o mercado de bikes, especificamente na faixa das bikes básicas e intermediárias (que são as faixas mais competitivas) trabalha com margens menores.

Bikes top, mais caras, podem ter maior margem, e o desconto pode ser maior também em bikes e modelos de anos anteriores ou fora de catálogo. Procure por promoções específicas de alguma marca, ou pechinche nos acessórios e serviços, usando o bom senso e a oportunidade. Não subestime seu poder de compra, mas não espere superdescontos!

7. O que importa é a qualidade do serviço

Algumas lojas oferecem serviços diversos para atrair o cliente: de check-ups e lavagens grátis a serviços de busca-e-entrega (delivery). Mas o que importa mesmo é a qualidade do atendimento e sobre tudo da mecânica da loja. O vendedor quer apenas empurrar uma bike X ou Y ? Não tem paciência para explicar como funciona A ou B ? Se recusa ou não sabe como justar corretamente a bike ou algum acessório ? Não importa se a loja é bonita e cheia de produtos e cartazes, se o atendimento for ruim, as chances de você ficar na mão e ter problemas quando precisar de alguma ajuda, são grandes. Da mesma forma, lojas onde os atendentes e mecânicos são bikers (não-esnobes, é claro) tendem a ser mais camaradas e quem ganha com isso é você. Valorize seu dinheiro!

8. 1,2,3...testando!

Algumas lojas permitem que você dê uma voltinha no quarteirão, o que pode ser pouco para ter uma boa idéia do comportamento da bike, mas serve para dar um “feeling”, sobretudo quando se está comparando bikes – ainda mais bikes com suspensão. Esse pequeno rolê pode ser ainda mais importante se a bike for usada, pois “maquiagens” e gambiarras podem ser detectadas nesse momento. Se algum amigo tiver um modelo igual ou parecido com o que você quer, peça emprestado para fazer um teste. Nenhum esforço é demais se for para você comprar a bike ideal para suas necessidades e seu gosto.

9. Bikes usadas: bom negócio ?

Às vezes comprar uma bike usada pode ser um bom negócio. Se a bike estiver em uma loja, pode estar em consignação ou ser da própria loja (se entrou como parte de pagamento por outra magrela, por exemplo), e provavelmente sofreu alguma revisão ou ajuste que a deixou em ordem. O preço pode compensar, mas a análise detalhada do estado dos componentes (muito importante) e do quadro (muitíssimo importante!) é fundamental nesses casos. Se possível, deve ser feita por algum amigo ou mecânico de confiança, alguém que entenda bem do assunto e possa dar um parecer sem maiores interesses. Lembre-se também que se o negócio parecer bom demais para ser verdade, pode ser mesmo (leia: “pegadinha”). Caso contrário, invista numa bike nova que o retorno é certo.

10. Você no comando

O mais importante de tudo é se sentir confortável com sua escolha. Não se sinta pressionado a decidir na hora, nem embaraçado por pedir informações que você julga necessárias para sua decisão (ninguém tem a obrigação de saber absolutamente tudo sobre bicicletas, nem mesmo o vendedor!). Lembre-se que por mais interessado que você esteja em comprar uma bike, quem manda é você, o cliente.

Escrito por:
Alex SP

Dicas úteis para quem vai comprar uma bike pela primeira vez

Os 10 Mandamentos do bom comprador

É comum encontramos nas lojas especializadas, ciclistas novatos à procura da sua primeira bicicleta, perdidos no meio de tantas opções e sem a mínima idéia de como usar seu dinheiro da melhor forma possível. Alguns esperam gastar pouco, outros muito, e outros não fazem a menor idéia do quanto custa uma ou de que tipo de bike precisam ou querem.

Só isso já seria suficiente para justificar uma matéria como essa, com dicas e manhas para quem pegou o “bichinho das magrelas” e não sabe por onde começar. Leiam o então esse guia de compras com os 10 Mandamentos do Comprador, baseado em anos de experiência nossa (nos dois lados do balcão) é para você.


1. Escolha sensata

Antes de mais nada é importante lembrar o que estamos sempre falando aqui no site PEDAL: se você está entrando sério no negócio, procure sua bike em uma loja especializada. Supermercados e lojas de departamento raramente possuem pessoal com conhecimento específico em bikes, equipamentos ou mecânica, e acredite, isso faz MUITA diferença. Vale a pena investir nisso se você quer usar a bike para fins esportivos.

2. Qual loja ?

Em praticamente toda cidade há pelo menos uma loja especializada (se não houver uma na sua, procure na cidade mais próxima...). Mas como escolher a melhor para você ?

Entrar na loja errada, com dinheiro para gastar e nenhum conhecimento aumentam as chances de você comprar uma bike que a loja quer se livrar ao invés da que você precisa. Por isso, o ideal é se informar um pouco com a galera do pedal local sobre as lojas da região – quais são as melhores, e por quê. O melhor visual, locação ou os “preços mais baratos” nem sempre são o melhor indicativo de bons serviços. Procure uma loja com atendentes que pedalam, que sejam solícitos e receptivos mas também informados, de preferência que sejam eles próprios bikers.

A loja oferece mecânica qualificada, oficina organizada, boa variedade de componentes, garantias? Que nos desculpem as “bocas”, mas a concorrência só traz benefícios para os clientes - e qualidade, paixão pelo esporte, capricho e organização são mais importantes do que preços baixos... Pesquise bastante e não se arrependa!

3. Informação é poder!

Da mesma forma, vale a pena se informar um pouco sobre bikes, equipamentos e afins antes de “ir pro abraço”. Isso também ajuda a evitar enganos das duas partes (o vendedor e você). Existem também inúmeras “pegadinhas”, as bikes têm centenas de componentes e as gírias e jargões usados também não são poucos. Informação é poder e você deve ao menos ter uma idéia do tipo e nível de bike que você quer.

Isso reduz as chances de você gastar mais do que precisa ou o contrário – terminar com uma bike que não se presta ao uso que você quer dar! Uma dica é começar aqui mesmo, no site PEDAL, pois todos os meses são apresentadas matérias de tecnologia, mecânica, componentes, competições, testes, saúde e treinamento (desculpem o jabá, hehehe....). Outra é procurar um clube de ciclismo, colegas que já pedalem, etc. Nas lojas, não se acanhe nem tenha medo de passar por ignorante: quando tiver dúvidas, pergunte mesmo!

4. Equipamentos indispensáveis

Se você está realmente começando, não se esqueça de considerar, além do valor da bike, o custo dos acessórios que você vai precisar. Alguns são indispensáveis, como o capacete. Pode ser que você pechinche e acabe ganhando, além de um desconto, um suporte e caramanhola instalados na bike. Mas e que tal um capacete (nem pense em não usar!), luvas, uma bermuda, uma bomba e câmaras extras, e um kit de ferramentas e remendos para emergências ? Isso é o básico. Não precisa ser tudo do bom e do melhor, mas ainda assim vai custar alguma coisa e portanto deve entrar nas contas de uma bike nova.

5. Aqui ou lá fora ?

Hoje em dia, com a internet e as facilidades de se comprar no exterior, fica sempre a pergunta: “compro aqui ou trago de fora ?”. Existem vários argumentos e motivos para comprar sua bike em uma loja especializada por aqui: serviço personalizado, garantias, montagem especializada são apenas alguns mais óbvios. A não ser que você saiba bem o que quer e esteja viajando e queira aproveitar a ocasião, é sempre aconselhável dar preferência para as lojas locais.

Se você considerar que é preciso incluir o preço da montagem, as taxas e o transporte, pode descobrir que sai quase empatado em termos de valor – com a comodidade de saber que a garantia é certa e os riscos são menores. Além disso, um bom relacionamento com a “galera” pode começar na hora da compra!

6. Descontos

Cada loja tem um limite para oferecer descontos numa bike, mas geralmente essa margem não é muito grande. Pode-se conseguir descontos melhores em equipamentos e serviços, sobretudo na hora da compra, ou ainda uma condição de pagamento mais “elástica”, mas o mercado de bikes, especificamente na faixa das bikes básicas e intermediárias (que são as faixas mais competitivas) trabalha com margens menores.

Bikes top, mais caras, podem ter maior margem, e o desconto pode ser maior também em bikes e modelos de anos anteriores ou fora de catálogo. Procure por promoções específicas de alguma marca, ou pechinche nos acessórios e serviços, usando o bom senso e a oportunidade. Não subestime seu poder de compra, mas não espere superdescontos!

7. O que importa é a qualidade do serviço

Algumas lojas oferecem serviços diversos para atrair o cliente: de check-ups e lavagens grátis a serviços de busca-e-entrega (delivery). Mas o que importa mesmo é a qualidade do atendimento e sobre tudo da mecânica da loja. O vendedor quer apenas empurrar uma bike X ou Y ? Não tem paciência para explicar como funciona A ou B ? Se recusa ou não sabe como justar corretamente a bike ou algum acessório ? Não importa se a loja é bonita e cheia de produtos e cartazes, se o atendimento for ruim, as chances de você ficar na mão e ter problemas quando precisar de alguma ajuda, são grandes. Da mesma forma, lojas onde os atendentes e mecânicos são bikers (não-esnobes, é claro) tendem a ser mais camaradas e quem ganha com isso é você. Valorize seu dinheiro!

8. 1,2,3...testando!

Algumas lojas permitem que você dê uma voltinha no quarteirão, o que pode ser pouco para ter uma boa idéia do comportamento da bike, mas serve para dar um “feeling”, sobretudo quando se está comparando bikes – ainda mais bikes com suspensão. Esse pequeno rolê pode ser ainda mais importante se a bike for usada, pois “maquiagens” e gambiarras podem ser detectadas nesse momento. Se algum amigo tiver um modelo igual ou parecido com o que você quer, peça emprestado para fazer um teste. Nenhum esforço é demais se for para você comprar a bike ideal para suas necessidades e seu gosto.

9. Bikes usadas: bom negócio ?

Às vezes comprar uma bike usada pode ser um bom negócio. Se a bike estiver em uma loja, pode estar em consignação ou ser da própria loja (se entrou como parte de pagamento por outra magrela, por exemplo), e provavelmente sofreu alguma revisão ou ajuste que a deixou em ordem. O preço pode compensar, mas a análise detalhada do estado dos componentes (muito importante) e do quadro (muitíssimo importante!) é fundamental nesses casos. Se possível, deve ser feita por algum amigo ou mecânico de confiança, alguém que entenda bem do assunto e possa dar um parecer sem maiores interesses. Lembre-se também que se o negócio parecer bom demais para ser verdade, pode ser mesmo (leia: “pegadinha”). Caso contrário, invista numa bike nova que o retorno é certo.

10. Você no comando

O mais importante de tudo é se sentir confortável com sua escolha. Não se sinta pressionado a decidir na hora, nem embaraçado por pedir informações que você julga necessárias para sua decisão (ninguém tem a obrigação de saber absolutamente tudo sobre bicicletas, nem mesmo o vendedor!). Lembre-se que por mais interessado que você esteja em comprar uma bike, quem manda é você, o cliente.

Escrito por:
Alex SP

Fusilli With Swordfish or Tuna and Tomato Sauce

Ingredientes:

2 colheres de sopa de azeite extra virgem

Um peixe-espada  ou bifes de atum, sem pele e cortadas em cerca de 1,2 cm “cubos”

Sal e pimenta moída a gosto

1 / 2 xícara de vinho branco seco

1 cebola pequena, finamente picada

2-4 dentes de alho (a gosto), picado

1/4 colher de chá de flocos de pimenta vermelha (opcional)

2 filés de anchova, finamente picado

900g tomates frescos, descascados, sem sementes, picado ou ralado

1 / 4 xícara de salsa lisa picada

450g penne ou fusilli

1. Aquecer uma panela grande de água para o macarrão.

2. Aquecer o azeite em fogo médio em uma panela antiaderente grande, adicione a cebola. Cozinhe, mexendo, até ficar macia, cerca de cinco minutos. Ligue o fogo para médio-alto. Adicione o alho, flocos de pimenta vermelha, anchova e o atum em cubos. Tempere com sal e pimenta. Cozinhe, mexendo, até que o peixe mude de cor ligeiramente, cerca de dois minutos. Adicione o vinho, deixe ferver e continue a cozinhar por dois minutos, mexendo sempre. Em seguida, usando uma escumadeira, retire o peixe e transfira para uma tigela. Continuar a ferver o líquido na panela até que tenha reduzido a um par de colheres.

3. Adicione o tomate na panela e leve para ferver. Cozinhe, mexendo sempre, por 15 minutos, até  sentir o cheiro perfumado. Agitar o peixe de volta na panela, adicione a salsa e tempere a mistura a gosto com sal e pimenta. Deixe levantar fervura e cozinhe por 10 minutos até que o molho fique espesso e perfumado.

 

4. Trazer a água do macarrão para ferver com sal generosamente. Adicione o penne ou fusilli e cozinhe al dente, 8-9 minutos ou de acordo com as indicações de tempo  na embalagem. Adicione 1 / 4 a 1 / 2 xícara de água de cozimento de massas para os peixes ,e misture bem. Escorra o macarrão, misture com o molho na frigideira ou em uma tigela de massa e sirva.

Rendimento: 6 pessoas.

Informação nutricional por porção: 445 calorias; 9 gramas de gordura, 2 gramas de gordura saturada, 29 miligramas de colesterol, 65 gramas de carboidratos, 4 gramas de fibra dietética; 330 miligramas de sódio (não inclui o sal adicionado durante a preparação), 26 gramas de proteína

Martha Rose Shulman é a autora de "The Very Best of Recipes for Health. ".

Fusilli With Swordfish or Tuna and Tomato Sauce

Ingredientes:

2 colheres de sopa de azeite extra virgem

Um peixe-espada  ou bifes de atum, sem pele e cortadas em cerca de 1,2 cm “cubos”

Sal e pimenta moída a gosto

1 / 2 xícara de vinho branco seco

1 cebola pequena, finamente picada

2-4 dentes de alho (a gosto), picado

1/4 colher de chá de flocos de pimenta vermelha (opcional)

2 filés de anchova, finamente picado

900g tomates frescos, descascados, sem sementes, picado ou ralado

1 / 4 xícara de salsa lisa picada

450g penne ou fusilli

1. Aquecer uma panela grande de água para o macarrão.

2. Aquecer o azeite em fogo médio em uma panela antiaderente grande, adicione a cebola. Cozinhe, mexendo, até ficar macia, cerca de cinco minutos. Ligue o fogo para médio-alto. Adicione o alho, flocos de pimenta vermelha, anchova e o atum em cubos. Tempere com sal e pimenta. Cozinhe, mexendo, até que o peixe mude de cor ligeiramente, cerca de dois minutos. Adicione o vinho, deixe ferver e continue a cozinhar por dois minutos, mexendo sempre. Em seguida, usando uma escumadeira, retire o peixe e transfira para uma tigela. Continuar a ferver o líquido na panela até que tenha reduzido a um par de colheres.

3. Adicione o tomate na panela e leve para ferver. Cozinhe, mexendo sempre, por 15 minutos, até  sentir o cheiro perfumado. Agitar o peixe de volta na panela, adicione a salsa e tempere a mistura a gosto com sal e pimenta. Deixe levantar fervura e cozinhe por 10 minutos até que o molho fique espesso e perfumado.

 

4. Trazer a água do macarrão para ferver com sal generosamente. Adicione o penne ou fusilli e cozinhe al dente, 8-9 minutos ou de acordo com as indicações de tempo  na embalagem. Adicione 1 / 4 a 1 / 2 xícara de água de cozimento de massas para os peixes ,e misture bem. Escorra o macarrão, misture com o molho na frigideira ou em uma tigela de massa e sirva.

Rendimento: 6 pessoas.

Informação nutricional por porção: 445 calorias; 9 gramas de gordura, 2 gramas de gordura saturada, 29 miligramas de colesterol, 65 gramas de carboidratos, 4 gramas de fibra dietética; 330 miligramas de sódio (não inclui o sal adicionado durante a preparação), 26 gramas de proteína

Martha Rose Shulman é a autora de "The Very Best of Recipes for Health. ".

Bracing for a Bullfrog Invasion

By JOSIE GARTHWAITE

NYTimes,

Kenneth H. Thomas/Photo Researchers On the move in coming decades: the American bullfrog.

The consequences of climate change for animals can seem very direct, as with polar bears in a warming Arctic. Others involve leaps, like the case of an invasive bullfrog: by 2080, it could splash into some of South America’s most ecologically rich protected areas, disrupting unique hotbeds of biodiversity. At least, that’s the prediction of a new study in the journal PLoS One.

Worldwide, researchers have increasingly been focusing on how a changing climate has altered or is likely to alter migration patterns and the habitats that different species may find hospitable.

For example, one recent study suggests that more than a million giant king crabs have ventured into the warming waters of Palmer Deep in the Antarctic shelf in recent decades, destroying native sea life. (Colder waters may have kept these “skeleton-crushing predators” at bay for more than 14 million years, the report said.)

Another, a meta-analysis published in the journal Science, found that a host of animal and plant species are moving to cooler, higher altitudes at a striking speed (an average of eight inches per hour). They have moved farthest in regions where the most warming has occurred, the report said.

And then there’s Lithobates catesbeianus (or Rana catesbeianus), commonly known as the American bullfrog.

Working out of universities in Argentina, Brazil and Colombia, the authors of this latest study have mapped species distribution models against climate models, information about biological preserves and sites where the species currently lives.

The result is a prediction of what places are more likely to be invaded by 2080. If the climate changes as anticipated, it appears that a bullfrog invasion will subside in portions of central western Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia. But it will increase in parts of northern Brazil, southeastern Colombia, eastern Peru and southern Venezuela, the researchers project.

The American bullfrog is a particularly vexing trespasser. “Bullfrogs are superfrogs, very adaptable and seemingly immune to most of the causes of amphibian decline,” said Peter B. Moyle, associate director of the Center for Watershed Sciences at the University of California, Davis. “They live in a wide variety of habitats, colonize new ones readily, and eat everything that fits into their mouths.”

If that seems like an overstatement, consider the United States Geological Survey’s summary of the species’ diet, which includes birds, rodents, frogs, snakes, turtles, lizards, and bats. In short, “they are voracious eaters who will also prey on their own young,” the survey says,

Dr. Moyle noted that the American bullfrog gets so big that people around the world have embraced them for culinary purposes (frog legs), even in Europe, “home of the original edible frog.”

Endemic to the eastern United States and Canada, the species has been introduced in more than 40 countries and four continents, including more than 75 percent of South America.

As areas where the American bullfrog has already taken up residence become less hospitable in a changing climate, the researchers, led by Javier Nori of the Universidad de Córdoba, anticipate that protected forest areas will become more suitable for the species.

Unless steps are taken to prevent the invasion, the authors write, climate change could enable the American bullfrog to thrive in areas of the Andean-Patagonian forest, eastern Paragua and northwestern Bolivia, where the species has not yet been reported.

The authors’ concern is especially high for the Atlantic Forest, a biodiversity hot spot in tropical South America. “Continuous monitoring of the native biodiversity in this biome should be a priority since L. castesbeianus is likely to colonize reserves more efficiently under climate changes,” they write.

Dr. Moyle said the study is of the sort that should be carried out for other species worldwide because “it demonstrates that we can predict alien invasions.”

The American bullfrog has a record that even Cortés might envy. But beyond its history, there are additional reasons that the species seems likely to colonize new territory.

“Amphibians rely on external temperatures, moisture levels, rainfall to regulate their own conditions,” said Robin Moore, an amphibian conservation officer for Conservation International. “They have semi-permeable skin, so even slight changes in rainfall can really affect them. Given their reliance on external temperatures and climate, as the climate changes, they are going to move.”

For native species, the arrival of the American bullfrog often means new competition, predation and the rapid spread of deadly disease among amphibians.The bullfrog is a carrier of amphibian chytrid fungus, Dr. Moore said, “possibly the most devastating disease to affect an entire class of animals, certainly vertebrates.”

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, based near Geneva, nearly half of all amphibians are now at risk of extinction for many reasons, climate change among them. Dr. Moore described it as an enormous conservation challenge.

Dr. Moyle said the latest study was quite thorough in its climate modeling and predictions and suggested that this could make it more convincing for policymakers.

But even good models have their limitations.“It is important to keep in mind that these are predictions,” he cautioned, noting that they are based in part on a big assumption: that the areas that conservationists need to protect in 50 years will be the same areas protected for their biodiversity today. “It is unrealistic to assume no change,” he said.

In an e-mail, the study’s authors also emphasized, for example, that their models do not take into account the dispersal capability of the bullfrog and its interactions with other organisms. So while this type of modeling is useful for pinpointing areas prone to invasion and providing management guidelines, Dr. Nori’s team wrote, more work is needed.

The scientists called on governments to redouble their efforts to collaborate with universities, research institutions and environmental groups to address “an imminent biological invasion of the bullfrog in the continent.”

Passeio Ciclístico formado pelo Juiz da Comarca de Turvo/SC "Dr. Manoel Donizete de Souza"

 “Faça algo, preserve a natureza. Ame!” Esta frase mais a palavra "Fórum" em destaque estamparam as camisetas do grupo formado pelo juiz Manoel Donizete de Souza, servidores e estagiários do Fórum de Turvo, no passeio ciclístico realizado na manhã de ontem (2/11).

    Os 25 ciclistas percorreram 30 km de ida e volta entre o centro da cidade e o distrito de Morro Chato. A saída foi às 6h30min, em frente ao Fórum. Os ciclistas venceram os primeiros 15 km em uma hora e, depois de um lanche, fizeram o caminho de volta, no mesmo ritmo.

   O objetivo foi chamar a atenção para a preservação da natureza e praticar uma atividade física. As camisetas serão usadas em outros eventos que os participantes pretendem realizar no futuro.

Passeio Ciclístico formado pelo Juiz da Comarca de Turvo/SC "Dr. Manoel Donizete de Souza"

 “Faça algo, preserve a natureza. Ame!” Esta frase mais a palavra "Fórum" em destaque estamparam as camisetas do grupo formado pelo juiz Manoel Donizete de Souza, servidores e estagiários do Fórum de Turvo, no passeio ciclístico realizado na manhã de ontem (2/11).

    Os 25 ciclistas percorreram 30 km de ida e volta entre o centro da cidade e o distrito de Morro Chato. A saída foi às 6h30min, em frente ao Fórum. Os ciclistas venceram os primeiros 15 km em uma hora e, depois de um lanche, fizeram o caminho de volta, no mesmo ritmo.

   O objetivo foi chamar a atenção para a preservação da natureza e praticar uma atividade física. As camisetas serão usadas em outros eventos que os participantes pretendem realizar no futuro.

Mountain biking

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Mountain biking

Mountain biker riding in the Arizona desert
Highest governing body	International Mountain Bicycling Association
First played	Open to debate. Modern era began in the late 1970s
Characteristics
Mixed gender	Separate men's & women's championship although no restrictions on women competing against men.
Olympic	Since 1996

Mountain biking is a sport which consists of riding bicycles off-road, often over rough terrain, using specially adapted mountain bikes. Mountain bikes share similarities with other bikes, but incorporate features designed to enhance durability and performance in rough terrain.

Mountain biking can generally be broken down into multiple categories: cross country (XC), trail riding, all mountain, downhill, freeride, street riding, dirt jumping and trials. The vast majority of mountain biking falls into the recreational XC, and Trail Riding categories.

This individual sport requires endurance, core strength and balance, bike handling skills, and self-reliance. XC type mountain biking generally requires a different range of skills and a higher level of fitness than other types of mountain biking. Advanced riders pursue steep technical descents and, in the case of freeriding, downhilling, and dirt jumping, aerial maneuvers off of specially constructed jumps and ramps.

Mountain biking can be performed almost anywhere from a back yard to a gravel road, but the majority of mountain bikers ride off-road trails, whether country back roads, fire roads, or singletrack (narrow trails that wind through forests, mountains, deserts, or fields). There are aspects of mountain biking that are more similar to trail running than regular bicycling. Because riders are often far from civilization, there is a strong ethic of self-reliance in the sport. Riders learn to repair their broken bikes or flat tires to avoid being stranded miles from help. Many riders will carry a backpack, including a water bladder, containing all the essential tools and equipment for trailside repairs, and many riders also carry emergency supplies in the case of injury miles from outside help. Club rides and other forms of group rides are common, especially on longer treks. A combination sport named mountain bike orienteering adds the skill of map navigation to mountain biking.

Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Equipment 2.1 Bike 2.2 Accessories 2.3 Protective gear 3 Types 4 Risks 5 Advocacy 6 Environmental impact 7 See also 8 References 9 External links

[edit] History

Main article: History of the mountain bike and mountain biking

The history of the mountain bike includes contributions from cyclo-cross in Europe, the Roughstuff Fellowship in the UK, and modified heavy cruiser bicycles used for freewheeling down mountain trails in Marin County, California. However, it was not until the late 1970s and early 1980s that road bicycle companies started to manufacture mountain bicycles using high-tech lightweight materials. Specialized introduced the first major production mountain bike in the world, the Stumpjumper, in 1981.^[1][2] Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, mountain biking moved from a little-known sport to a mainstream.

[edit] Equipment

[edit] Bike

A hardtail mountain bike.

• Mountain bikes differ from other bikes primarily in that they incorporate features aimed at increasing durability and improving performance in rough terrain. Most modern mountain bikes have front fork or dual suspension, 26 inch and also 29 or 27.5(650b) inch diameter tires, usually from 1.7 to 2.5 inches in width, and a wider, flat or upwardly-rising handlebar that allows a more upright riding position, giving the rider more control. They have a smaller, reinforced frame, usually made of wide tubing. Tires usually have a pronounced lugged tread, and are mounted on rims which are stronger than those used on most non-mountain bicycles. Compared to other bikes, mountain bikes also tend to more frequently use disc brakes. They also tend to have lower ratio gears to facilitate climbing steep hills and traversing obstacles. Pedals vary from simple platform pedals, where the rider simply places the shoes on top of the pedals, to clipless, where the rider uses a specially equipped shoe with a sole that engages mechanically into the pedal. Pedals with toe cages (clips) are rarely used anymore as they take longer to get out of than clipless or platform if one takes a fall on the rough terrain.
  Generally speaking, enhanced durability and off-road capabilities also result in a heavier bicycle weight to rider ratio than road touring bicycles.^[3]

[edit] Accessories

• Gloves differ from road touring gloves, are made of heavier construction, and often have covered thumbs or all fingers covered for hand protection. They are sometimes made with padding for the knuckles.
• Glasses with little or no difference from those used in other cycling sports, help protect against debris while on the trail. Filtered lenses, whether yellow for cloudy days or shaded for sunny days, protect the eyes from strain. Downhill and freeride mountain bikers often use goggles similar to motorcross or snowboard goggles in unison with their fullface helmets.
• Shoes generally have gripping soles similar to those of hiking boots for scrambling over un-ridable obstacles, unlike the smooth-bottomed shoes used in road cycling. The shank of mountain bike shoes is generally more flexible than road cycling shoes. Shoes compatible with clipless pedal systems are also frequently used.
• Clothing is chosen for comfort during physical exertion in the backcountry, and its ability to withstand falls. Road touring clothes are often inappropriate due to their delicate fabrics and construction.
• Hydration systems are important for mountain bikers in the backcountry, ranging from simple water bottles to water bags with drinking tubes in lightweight backpacks (e.g., Camelbaks).
• GPS navigation device is sometimes added to the handlebars and is used to display and monitor progress on trails downloaded from the internet or pre-made mapping systems, record trails on the fly, and keep track of trip times and other data. The GPS system is often a handheld GPS device with color screen and rugged, waterproof (IPX7) design.
• Pump to inflate flat tires.
• Bike tools and extra bike tubes are important, as mountain bikers frequently find themselves miles from help, with flat tires or other mechanical problems that must be handled by the rider.
• High-power lights based on LED technology, especially for mountain biking at night.

[edit] Protective gear

The style and level of protection worn by individual riders varies greatly and is affected by many factors including terrain, environment, weather, potential obstacles on the trail, experience, technical skill, fitness, perceived risk, desired style and others too numerous to mention. A cross-country helmet and simple long fingered gloves are a good minimum for the majority of riding.

Limb protection becomes important when speeds rise, surfaces become loose and sketchy, terrain technical and crashes more common and more severe. Full-face helmets and armored suits or jackets are more suited to "gravity" and "air"-orientated disciplines which use jumps and drops, where their extra bulk and weight is outweighed by the bigger and more frequent crashes with worse consequences. Still, within XC community, the typical road-racing attire is what most riders use. Whatever protection is used it should fit well, be comfortable (or it won't be worn) on the bike as well as in the shop and suited for the particular type of riding. Gloves can offer increased comfort while riding, by alleviating compression and friction, and protection in the event of strikes to the back or palm of the hand or when putting the hand out in a fall. Gloves also protect the hand, fingers, and knuckles from abrasion on rough surfaces such as concrete. Many different styles of gloves exist, with various fits, sizes, finger lengths, palm padding and armor options available. Armoring knuckles and the backs of hands with plastic panels is common in more extreme types of mountainbiking.

• Helmets provide important head protection. The use of helmets, in one form or another, is almost universal amongst all mountain bikers. The main three types are cross-country, rounded skateboarder style (nicknamed "half shells" or "skate style") and full face. Cross-country helmets tend to be light and well ventilated, and more comfortable to wear for long periods, especially while perspiring in hot weather. In XC competitions, most bikers use the usual road racing style helmets, for their lightweight and aerodynamic qualities. Skateboard helmets are simpler and cheaper than other helmet types; provide greater coverage of the head and resist minor scrapes and knocks. Unlike road biking helmets, skateboard helmets typically have a thicker, hard plastic shell which can take multiple impact before it needs to be replaced. The trade-off for this is that they tend to be much heavier and less ventilated (sweatier), therefore not suitable for endurance-based riding.Full-face helmets (BMX-style) provide the highest level of protection, being stronger again than skateboard style and including a jaw guard to protect the face. The weight is the main issue with this type but nowadays they are often relatively well ventilated and made of high-tech materials, such as carbon fiber. As all helmets should meet minimum standards, SNELL B.95 (American Standard) BS EN 1078:1997 (European Standard), DOT or "motorized ratings" are making their way into the market. The choice of helmet often comes down to rider preference, likelihood of crashing and on what features or properties of a helmet they place emphasis. Helmets are mandatory at competitive events and almost without exception at bike parks, most organisations also stipulate when and where full-face helmets must be used.

• Body armor and pads, often referred to simply as "armor", protect limbs and trunk in the event of a crash. While initially made for and marketed at downhillers, freeriders and jump/street riders, body armor has trickled into other areas of mountain biking as trails have become faster and more technical. Armor ranges from simple neoprene sleeves for knees and elbows to complex, articulated combinations of hard plastic shells and padding that cover a whole limb or the entire body. Some companies market body armor jackets and even full body suits designed to provide greater protection through greater coverage of the body and more secure pad retention. Most upper body protectors also include a spine protector that comprises plastic or metal reinforced plastic plates, over foam padding, which are joined together so that they articulate and move with the back. Some mountain bikers also use BMX-style body armor, such as chest plates, abdomen protectors, and spine plates. New technology has seen an influx of integrated neck protectors that fit securely with full face helmets. There is a general correlation between increased protection and increased weight/decreased mobility, although different styles balance these factors differently. Different levels of protection are deemed necessary/desirable by different riders in different circumstances. Backpack hydration systems such as Camelbaks where a water filled bladder is held close to the spine used by some riders for their perceived protective value. However, there is only anecdotal evidence of protection and with the exception of one specific product by the company Deuter, they are never sold as spine protection.

• First aid kits are often carried by mountain bikers, so that they are able to clean and dress cuts and abrasions and splint broken limbs. Experienced mountain bike guides may be trained in dealing with suspected spinal injuries (e.g., immobilizing the victim and keeping the neck straight). Seriously injured people may have to be removed by stretcher, by a motor vehicle suitable for the terrain, or by helicopter.

[edit] Types

Mountain biking is dominated by these major categories:

A cross-country mountain biker climbs on an unpaved track

Typical more stout all-mountain bike on rough terrain

Downhill cycling.

Mountain bike touring in high Alps.

• Cross-Country (XC) is the most popular form of mountain biking, and the standard for most riders. It generally means riding point-to-point or in a loop including climbs and descents on a variety of terrain. A typical XC bike weighs around 9-13 kilos (20-30 lbs), and has 0-125 millimeters (0-5 inches) of suspension travel front and sometimes rear.

• All-mountain (AM) bike category typically provides 125-180 millimeters (5-7 inches) of rear and front suspension travel and stronger components than XC models, while still providing overall weight suitable for climbing and descending on a variety of terrain.

• Downhill (DH) is, in the most general sense, riding mountain bikes downhill. The rider usually travels to the point of descent by other means than cycling, such as a ski lift or automobile, as the weight of the downhill mountain bike often precludes any serious climbing. While cross country riding inevitably has a downhill component, Downhill (or DH for short) usually refers to racing-oriented downhill riding. Downhill-specific bikes are universally equipped with front and rear suspension, large disc brakes, and use heavier frame tubing than other mountain bikes. Because of their extremely steep terrain (often located in summer at ski resorts), downhill courses are one of the most extreme and dangerous venues for mountain biking. They include large jumps (up to and including 12 meters (40 feet)), drops of 3+ meters (10+ feet), and are generally rough and steep top to bottom. To negotiate these obstacles at race speed, racers must possess a unique combination of total body strength, aerobic and anaerobic fitness, and mental control. Minimum body protection in a true downhill setting is knee pads and a full face helmet with goggles, although riders and racers commonly sport full body suits to protect themselves. Downhill bikes now weigh around 16-20 kilos (35-45 lbs), while professional downhill mountain bikes can weigh as little as 15 kilos (33 lbs), fully equipped with custom carbon fibre parts, air suspension, tubeless tires and more. Downhill frames get anywhere from 170-250 millimeters (7 to 10 inches) of travel and are usually mounted with a 200 millimeter (8 inch) travel dual-crown fork.

• Four-cross/Dual Slalom (4X) is a sport in which riders compete either on separate tracks, as in Dual Slalom, or on a short slalom track, as in 4X. Most bikes used are light hard-tails, although the last World Cup was actually won on a full suspension bike. The tracks have dirt jumps, berms, and gaps. Professionals in gravity mountain biking tend to concentrate either on downhill mountain biking or 4X/dual slalom because they are very different. However, some riders, such as Cedric Gracia, still do 4X and DH, although that is becoming more rare as 4X takes on its own identity.

• Freeride / Big Hit / Hucking. Freeride, as the name suggests is a 'do anything' discipline that encompasses everything from downhill racing without the clock to jumping, riding 'North Shore' style (elevated trails made of interconnecting bridges and logs), and generally riding trails and/or stunts that require more skill and aggressive techniques than XC. Freeride bikes are generally heavier and more amply suspended than their XC counterparts, but usually retain much of their climbing ability. It is up to the rider to build his or her bike to lean more toward a preferred level of aggressiveness. "Slopestyle" type riding is an increasingly popular genre that combines big-air, stunt-ridden freeride with BMX style tricks. Slopestyle courses are usually constructed at already established mountain bike parks and include jumps, large drops, quarter-pipes, and other wooden obstacles. There are always multiple lines through a course and riders compete for judges' points by choosing lines that highlight their particular skills. A "typical" freeride bike is hard to define, but 13-18 kilos (30-40) lbs with 150-250 millimeters (6-10 inches) of suspension front and rear.

• Dirt Jumping (DJ) is one of the names given to the practice of riding bikes over shaped mounds of dirt or soil and becoming airborne. The idea is that after riding over the 'take off' the rider will become airborne, and aim to land on the 'landing'. Dirt jumping can be done on almost anything but the bikes are generally smaller and more maneuverable hardtails so that tricks e.g. backflips, are easier to complete. The bikes are simpler so that when a crash occurs there are fewer components to break or cause the rider injury. Bikes are typically built from sturdier materials such as steel to handle repeated heavy impacts of crashes and bails.

• Trials riding consists of hopping and jumping bikes over obstacles, without touching a foot onto the ground. It can be performed either off-road or in an urban environment. It requires an excellent sense of balance. The emphasis is placed on techniques of effectively overcoming the obstacles, although street-trials (as opposed to competition-oriented trials) is much like Street and DJ, where doing tricks with style is the essence. Trials bikes look almost nothing like mountain bikes. They use either 20", 24" or 26" wheels and have very small, low frames, some types without a saddle.

• Urban/Street is essentially the same as urban BMX (or Freestyle BMX), in which riders perform tricks by riding on/over man made objects. The bikes are the same as those used for Dirt Jumping, having 24" or 26" wheels. Also, they are very light, many in the range of 25-30 lbs, and are typically hardtails with between 0-100 millimeters of front suspension. As with Dirt Jumping and Trials, style and execution are emphasized.

• Mountain Bike Touring is long distance touring on dirt roads and single track with a mountain bike. With the popularity of the Great Divide Trail, the Colorado Trail and other long distance off road biking trails specially fitted mountain bikes are increasingly being used for touring. Bike manufacturers like Salsa have even developed MTB touring bikes like the Fargo model. Mixed Terrain Cycle-Touring or rough riding is a form of mountain bike touring but involves cycling over a variety of surfaces and topography on a single route, with a single bicycle. The recent popularity of mixed terrain touring is in part a reaction against the increasing specialization of the bike industry. Focusing on freedom of travel and efficiency over varied surfaces, mixed terrain bicycle travel has a storied past.

[edit] Risks

The risk of injury is inherent in the sport of mountain biking, especially in the more extreme disciplines such as downhill biking. Injuries range from relatively minor wounds, such as cuts and abrasions from falls on gravel to serious injuries such as striking the head or spine on a boulder or tree.

Protective equipment can protect against minor injuries, and reduce the extent or seriousness of major impacts, but it cannot protect a rider against the most serious impacts or accidents. To truly reduce the risk of injury, a rider needs to take steps to make injuries less likely, such as picking trails that they can handle given their experience level, ensuring that they are fit enough to deal with the trail they have chosen, and keeping their bike in top mechanical shape. If a mountain biker wishes to explore more dangerous trails or disciplines (types of mountain biking) such as downhill riding, they will need to learn new skills, such as jumping and avoiding obstacles.

Fitness is another issue; if a rider is not in good enough shape to ride a certain class of trail, they will become fatigued, which puts them at a higher risk of having an accident.

Lastly, maintenance of one's bike needs to be done more frequently for mountain biking than for casual commuter biking in the city. Mountain biking places much higher demands on every part of the bike. Jumps and impacts can crack the frame or damage the derailleurs or the tire rims, and steep, fast descents can quickly wear out brake pads. Thus, whereas a casual in-the-city rider may only check over and maintain their bike every few months, a mountain biker should check and properly maintain the bike before every ride.

[edit] Advocacy

Mountain biker gets air in Mount Hood National Forest.

Mountain bikers have faced land access issues from the beginnings of the sport. Areas where the first mountain bikers have ridden have faced serious restrictions or elimination of riding.

Opposition to the sport has led to the development of local, regional, and international mountain bike groups. The different groups that formed generally work to create new trails, maintain existing trails, and help existing trails that may have issues. Groups work with private and public entities from the individual landowner to city parks departments, on up through the state level at the DNR, and into the federal level. Different groups will work individually or together to achieve results.

Advocacy organizations work through a variety of means including education, trail work days, and trail patrols. Examples of the education an advocacy group can provide include: Educate local bicycle riders, property managers, and other user groups on the proper development of trails, and on the International Mountain Bicycling Association's rules of the Trail. Examples of trail work days can include: Flagging, cutting, and signing a new trail, or removing downed trees after a storm. A trail patrol is a bike rider who has had some training to help assist other (including non cyclists) trail users.

The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), is a non-profit advocacy group whose mission is to create, enhance and preserve trail opportunities for mountain bikers worldwide. IMBA serves as an umbrella organization for mountain biking advocacy worldwide, and represents more than 700 affiliated mountain biking groups. In 1988, five California mountain bike clubs linked to form IMBA. The founding clubs were: Concerned Off Road Bicyclists Association, Bicycle Trails Council East Bay, Bicycle Trails Council Marin, Sacramento Rough Riders, and Responsible Organized Mountain Pedalers.

IMBA developed "Rules of the Trail" to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails.

• IMBA Rules of the Trail

1. Ride On Open Trails Only
2. Leave No Trace
3. Control Your Bicycle
4. Yield to Others
5. Never Scare Animals
6. Plan Ahead

[edit] Environmental impact

Mountain Bikers at Marvin Braude Mulholland Gateway Park.

Studies reported in the IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) Trail Solutions manual found that a mountain bike's impact on a given length of trail surface is comparable to that of a hiker and substantially less than that of an equestrian.^[4]

A critical literature review by Jason Lathrop [1] on the ecological impacts of mountain biking notes that few studies take mountain biking into account. He quotes the BLM: "An estimated 13.5 million mountain bicyclists visit public lands each year to enjoy the variety of trails. What was once a low use activity that was easy to manage has become more complex".

The environmental impacts of mountain biking can be greatly reduced by not riding on wet or sensitive trails, not skidding, and by staying on the trail.