| I retired in Thailand three months ago, and was | | | | your lane. |
| looking for something to give me a little bit of | | | | Dogs are also a major problem. There are |
| daily exercise. I was in the Army for thirty years, | | | | basically two types of dogs; strays and owner's |
| and hate running. I decided to get back on a | | | | pets. The latter tend to chase and defend their |
| bicycle. | | | | territory more than the strays. I am usually just |
| I had not ridden a bike since I was in my early | | | | ignored by the packs of dogs wandering aimlessly |
| teens but had always heard that you never | | | | looking for food. |
| forget how to ride a bike. It is true! | | | | There are potholes and ruts in the roads over |
| I purchased a twenty-one speed mountain bike, | | | | here that can pose a problem. You need to be |
| helmet, water bottle holder, and a quality cable | | | | aware of traffic while dodging these road hazards. |
| lock for approximately two hundred dollars. I was | | | | Edges of roads tend to be sandy which |
| ready to start my exercise regimen. | | | | decreases traction immensely. Litter and road kill |
| I like to rise early and get the exercise done. Plus | | | | are in abundance. |
| it is cooler early in the morning and there is less | | | | In Thailand, the sewer covers are concrete and |
| traffic. But, I have learned that there are dangers | | | | have wide slits that are wide enough to grab your |
| riding in Thailand and most likely some will apply no | | | | front tire and would then toss you over the |
| matter where you live. | | | | handlebars. Watch out for these as they are all |
| If you are originally from America, you will have | | | | over the place. |
| to get used to riding on the other side of the | | | | The heat can be extreme even at five o'clock in |
| road. Thailand drives on the left side. | | | | the morning so ensure you carry a bottle of |
| Traffic going in the same direction as you is not | | | | water with you and drink before, during and after |
| that much of a worry. I have noticed that | | | | your ride. |
| motorcycles, cars and trucks usually give you | | | | You can have an enjoyable bike ride in Thailand, |
| plenty of room when they pass. | | | | get in some good exercise, and lose some weight |
| Vehicles coming for the opposite direction are a | | | | if you drive defensively. Be aware of your |
| different story. If they are just driving along there | | | | surroundings, obey the law, and wear a quality |
| is no problem. If they are attempting to pass | | | | helmet. |
| another vehicle, then they will be coming at you in | | | | |