Dr. Laura Bishop
Glynnis Lessing, a professional potter from Northfield, Minnesota, has been embarking on bike tours for the past 43 years. Her love for cycling started in 1980 when she went on a three-day bikepacking trip with her then-boyfriend, Keith Morical, who later set a Guinness World Record for biking the 48 contiguous states in a month.
Although her relationship with Keith didn’t last, Glynnis’s passion for bike touring never faded. She continued to explore new territories on her bike and even took an eight-month biking and camping honeymoon through Europe in 1986. Glynnis and her fiancée also biked through Italy in 1991, from Rome to Florence and back.
Even after becoming a mother, Glynnis and her husband made it a priority to go on small bike tours whenever they could. They equipped themselves with burley carts, trail-a-bikes, bike seats, and children’s bikes to accommodate their growing family. In 2008, they embarked on a three-week bike trip in Italy with their 15- and 8-year-old children.
As Glynnis reached the age of 59 and realized she was out of shape, she decided to make a change. While spending time in Merida, Mexico, she started exploring the region on her bike and gradually regained her fitness and stamina. Despite facing health concerns in 2020, including an aortic aneurysm, Glynnis managed to keep her heart healthy through diet and exercise.
In 2023, Glynnis and her husband traveled to Italy for two months, where they embarked on memorable bikepacking trips. Glynnis cherishes the self-reliance, freedom, challenge, and connection with nature that cycling offers. Her husband has been a constant source of support, accompanying her on this lifelong journey.
Now in her 60s, Glynnis continues to cycle regularly. She starts her mornings with a bike ride in Merida and tries to bike three to four times a week in Minnesota. Cycling has not only helped her stay physically fit but has also been a source of deep happiness and inspiration throughout her life.
Glynnis shares some tips for a successful cycling journey based on her own experience. These include investing in a comfortable bike fit and seat, incorporating cycling into everyday activities, encouraging children to join in on the fun, and adapting one’s exercise routine as they age.
Throughout her cycling journey, Glynnis has relied on various pieces of gear that have enhanced her experiences. Some of her must-haves include the Peak Design Magnetic Phone Holder for easy access to her phone while biking and the TransIt Ragster SPD Cycling Sandals for both comfort and performance.
Glynnis’s lifelong dedication to cycling serves as a testament to the incredible physical and emotional benefits that this activity can provide. It has allowed her to lead a creative and extraordinary life while exploring the world on two wheels.
The cycling industry has experienced significant growth in recent years as more people recognize the benefits of cycling for both leisure and transportation. According to market forecasts, the global cycling industry is expected to reach a value of $85 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2020 to 2025.
One of the main drivers of this growth is the increasing interest in sustainable transportation options. Cycling is seen as an eco-friendly alternative to cars and public transport, as it reduces carbon emissions and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Governments and urban planners are also investing in cycling infrastructure to encourage more people to take up cycling for their daily commute.
Another factor contributing to the growth of the cycling industry is the rising popularity of bike tourism. Travelers are increasingly seeking unique experiences and adventure, and bike touring allows them to explore new destinations at their own pace. Popular bike touring destinations include Europe, Asia, and North America, with scenic routes and bike-friendly accommodations attracting cycling enthusiasts from around the world.
However, there are still some challenges and issues that the cycling industry faces. One of the major concerns is cyclist safety, as accidents involving cyclists continue to occur on roads with heavy traffic. Governments and cycling advocacy groups are working to improve road safety by implementing cycling-friendly infrastructure, promoting awareness campaigns, and enforcing stricter traffic laws.
Another issue is the affordability of cycling equipment, especially for those who are just starting out or have limited budgets. While there are affordable options available, high-quality bikes and gear can still be expensive. This can create barriers for some individuals who are interested in cycling but cannot afford the necessary equipment.
To address these issues, organizations and companies within the cycling industry are focusing on innovation and accessibility. They are developing new technologies to improve cyclist safety, such as smart helmets with built-in sensors and visibility-enhancing bike lights. There is also a greater emphasis on producing affordable and durable bikes and gear that cater to a wider range of consumers.
For more information on the cycling industry and related topics, you can visit websites such as Cycling Industry News and Cycling Weekly. These sources provide comprehensive coverage of industry news, market trends, and product reviews to keep cyclists and industry professionals informed.
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