Sharing stories and adventures about all things coffee, stories, and stoke
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Reflections
Coffee is an experience. It’s more than a beverage, but a process or ritual to enjoy and even find meaning in. Especially when traveling in Nacho the Van or bikepacking, there’s nothing better than waking up and beginning the process of making coffee … even if, at times, doing so, still cocooned in a mummy sleeping bag. Why do you drink coffee?
Sometimes, riding your local trails becomes mundane. It’s like going to the gym each week, where it’s more of a discipline rather than an epic and awe-inspiring adventure. Don’t get me wrong, like going to the gym, I still enjoy riding on my local trails. However, it’s always good to mix things up. That’s what I did when I ventured to Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort in Eastern Oregon.
Summer is always peak travel season, whether they’re big vacation kinds of trips or local and regional weekend excursions. I’ve lost track of how many overnight trips I’ve taken in Nacho the Van over the past few months. When I road trip in Nacho, whether for mountain bike adventures or trail-building events, there are several non-negotiable items that I bring … my bike and gear (helmet, shoes, etc.), plenty of water, and stuff to make coffee. Here’s what I’ve learned about making good coffee while traveling …
There’s something about backcountry trail work. Out of cell service, away from the crowds, and rough and raw trails that see very little use. That was what the Orogenesis Klickitat Sisters Stewardship Campout was all about. Two days of trail work on the remote Kilckitat Trail. What’s the goal? To piece together the longest mountain bike trail in the world. That is the vision of Gabe Tiller and Orogenesis.
Welcome to the Summer issue of LOAM Zine!
Developing this little zine has become a fun and creative project. I’m debating whether to turn it in to print. Maybe someday. Until then, it’s a unique free gift to give away. So what can you expect in this latest quarterly issue?
Riding the Sync’r the past couple of weeks reminded me that bikes don’t make me happy, but getting out and riding does. Sure, I know there’s a difference between a $750 bike and a $9,000. But since I’m not clearing 30-foot gaps or racing on the EWS circuit, why do I think I need some hot commodity of a high-end bike? It certainly won’t make me happier, nor mean I enjoy riding more. No, this is not some anti-consumerism rant. Instead, it’s a reminder of the fun we can have out on the trail regardless of what kind of bike we have … even if it’s a budget bike.
