Yohei's Blog

Fantastic Cycling and Rejuvenating Paradise, Oita

2012-01-11T21:35:00.002+08:00

Dear beloved readers,

A happy new year! Thank you very much forreading my bolg for the past year even though my updates had been fairly infrequent.But, it has also been great writing things. Hope I can enjoy keep writing theworld I see this year too. Thinking those things, I have been eating Persimmonsand mandarins at home.

Believed or not over 4000 access has beenmade since the establishment of the blog. Persistence pays off. I will keepgoing, providing maybe-useful information for you.

Getback to the journey

Leaving Hiroshima in the morning, I caughta train towards west. To get to the half point, Yamaguchi prefecture, the trainstopped some 47 stops. I like going slow as always.

Of course, passed USA to get to Oita

OitaSpecialties

Oita has it all for me, well, as being anot so hard-core chilling cyclist.

Superbonsen (hot springs)

As well as Beppu, one of the most popular hotspring districts in the country, Oita has got a great range of hot springs, knownas onsen in Japanese, there are number of hot springs and they are all pumpedup from underground. Besides, different hot springs has different textures suchas smooth ones as silk or refreshing ones as lemon, lime and bitters, andtherefore, depends what you after, you could choose what you want every day. Butone thing in common in this area is the fact that the hot water in the springs isgenerally GOT DAMN HOT (especially the one called Takegawara Onsen), referred from Joe, my friend in Oita.

Beppu, one of the most well know onsen districts in Japan. Beppu is neighbour town of Oita 2 stops by train.

The interior of Takegawara Onsen, Beppu

In Japan, hot springs are generally dividedinto 2 parts; one is for males and one for females as you need to be completelynecked to be in one of them. (Oh well, probably to avoid something fromhappening…..) However, there are ones called ’Konyoku-buro’, which is a hotspring with only one part. Yes, it is, literary, a nudist hot spring. Unfortunately,I did not have chance to go to one of them but in this particular occasion. Apparently,here in Oita is one of the areas you could find one for real authenticexperience in country Japan. The admission prices for hot springs are generallyvery friendly to your wallet from free (!) to 390 yen (4 AUD) (of course thereare very expensive ones too.) I found a video which gives you a visual explanation of hot springs in Oita (and Beppu).

I would describe hot springs in oita to be not only refreshing and relaxing, but also rejuvenating! It's a must do experience in Japan.

Still not convinced? Check it out with your own body.

Legmonsters

Thanks to the hot springs around the girlshere are (apparently) famous for its well maintained beautiful long legs. Theselegs are making Oita’s biggest industry of leg bars.(half jork and half true). Note*The word, leg monster, is first coined by Joe.

GreatPubs

You would find this kind of stuff too

To my surprise, there are great pubs aroundOita especially in Miyakomachi area. Those pubs are making the area fairly entertainingand multicultural. This is partly due to the establishment of an internationaluniversity nearby. One my most recommended pub in this area is P.E.I. The pub has a great range of cocktails, spiritsand beer (and they do a great turkey on Christmas eves) and most importantly,very friendly bartenders and people enjoying their time. If you come for the secondtime, you definitely see one of your friends there. Consequently speaking,where drinking places there are wicked bottle shops are. There are heaps ofgreat bottle shops too. Further explanation not needed.

CyclistParadise, Oita

Joe on his bike

And most importantly (well, believe or notand at least for me), Oita and surroundings are one of the most fantasticdestinations in the country for cyclists from very beginners to full onadvanced riders give you a great beautiful and scenic rides. Mountains, rivers,coasts, quiet roads. Nice challenging and quiet hills beautiful sceneries. As Joe runs a cycle tour company, Japan Bike and Hike, he knows the area very well. He kindly took on the wheel me around the area of Oita. Its just beautiful andchallenging area to ride around. I’ve attached some of photos below but I wouldsay I saw 100+ times more beautiful places that the photos below.

Mountains, mountains!

Bamboos, Bamboos!

A lot of hilly rides

At the top of a mountain!

Easy, cruisy coastal ride

An island

A temple

A pretty damn looking good view

Time has passed very very quickly. It’s already timeto go back to my hometown again.

Today's Route

View Larger Map

にほんブログ村

Spontaneous Acts (Journey to Hiroshima)

2011-12-20T23:17:00.000+08:00

One beautiful morning, it was 11am. I, spontaneously, wanted to go somewhere.

I occasionally have this feeling but I always force myself to ignore due to other priorities such as study and work. But I am on holiday (and single!) at the moment so I decided to go with it. :)

Since I am not fond of cold weather, heading west was appeared to be a favorable option.

Departure Point - Kyoto

Seishun Juhachi Kippu (Yourth 18 Ticket)
I bought a Seishun Juhachi Kippu, This is also referred as 'Youth 18 ticket' (Japan-Guide.com, 2011). It contains separable 5 daily unlimited nationwide local train railway tickets, which can be used for any railway lines of Japan Railways (JR).

Japanese Old Train - very tasteful

This ticket is sold only the during holiday periods and cannot be used for express trains such as shinkansen, bullet trains, so there are few limitations but is a very cheap option for travelling around the country (The ticket costs 11,500yen therefore only 2,300yen per day for unlimited travel.). Despite its confusing name, there is no age restriction for the purchase and use of this ticket.

Train interior view

Holding the Youth 18 Ticket, I caught a train heading west.

Encounter with a Madam
At Himeji train station, one madam (obachan) was sitting next to me.

She was also travelling alone using a Youth 18 Ticket. Japanese are very shy people so it is very rear to talk to strangers in normal situation. But as we spend 5 hours on rail sitting next to each other, we talked about many things, such as the criticism of current Japanese politicians, the earthquake, good fishing spots, the difficulty (almost impossibility) of forming successful inter-religious relationship, and tourism hot spots in Japan etc.

With the Youth 18 ticket, train runs very slowly and stops every single station. Time consuming but there is nothing to miss on the way. I have captured many local beauties.

A scenery from the train window

Labour Intensive Japanese Trains
Japanese trains are very labour intensive as for example there are four officers in a four carriage train between Himeji and Hiroshima (about 5 hour journey). It is definitely not cost effective operation from the management point of view (as opposed to the ones in Australia, for example, which normally carries one officer (i.e. train driver) per train but gives you a unique experience of a train journey (and you are not the one paying the wage for them anyway!).

The reason why there are so many officers are because they still doing many things manually and heavily service oriented. For example, the announcement for the coming stations are made manually for every stop. Besides, in addition to informing the next stop they tell us the following information:

1. Local attractions and events information (if any)
2. The manner of mobile use (no talking, mobile need to be switched off on priority seats and area around them.)
3. Possible danger in a train (e.g use of emergency bottom)
4. The side of the door which will open at the next stop
5. Transfer (if any)
6. Apology and details for delay (even 1 minute late)
7. And, finally, appreciation on board

Plus, the officers walk through the carriages every 30 minutes or so, so if you have any inquiries they can help you promptly. Therefore, from my observation, they are busy somehow and that’s why they are so many officers in a train Japan.

Busy officer

Hiroshima and Backpackers Hostel

Finally - Hiroshima

Thinking those things, I am already here in Hiroshima. Hiroshima is one of the two places where an atomic-bomb was dropped upon in the long human history. The city was once completely destroyed and over 200,000 people are killed by just one bomb on 6 August, 1946. Now, Hiroshima has reborn with a Hiroshima Heiwa Koen (Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park) as a peaceful symbol of Japan, being one of the most visited destinations in Japan.

The A-bomb Dorm - Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

More information on A-bomb Dorm (click the image to enlarge)

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Rest in Peace - Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The city itself is very flat and trams are running conveniently across the entire city. Therefore, in my opinion, it is quiet similar to place like Melbourne.

Tram - Hiroshima

Tram Station - Hiroshima

I stayed in a backpackers hostel in Japan for the first time. The place I stayed is called J-Hoppers, probably one of the first backpackers hostel in Japan. This place is not only friendly, clean, comfortable and cheap (I paid only 2,300 yen (26 AUS) for a dorm night) accommodation, they keep entertain tourists in many interesting ways.

J-Hoppers - Entrance

For example, when I was there, local university students were holding a party with the guests at the hostel. I found it was very wise, creating a win-win situation.
The party gives opportunity for the students to learn English (there are many guests from places like Canada and Australia), and guest can have a cheap meal, mingle with local (young) boys and girls and learn about the Japanese culture. And hostel sells beer, which brings additional revenue to the hostel, plus this whole thing would contribute to the healthy globalisation of the community and deepen the understanding between local people and tourists.

So, I am really enjoying my spontaneous acts.

Today's Route

View Larger Map

Next, I am slowly heading even east, cannot wait for getting to the next destination.

にほんブログ村

Lake Biwa Ride

2011-12-19T11:56:00.002+08:00

Riding around Lake Biwa was one of the favorites for full on day cycling from Kyoto at the time when I was there as a university student. This massive lake, Lake Biwa, is the largest freshwater lake in Japan with the area of 670km2, which makes almost as same size as Singapore (694km2).

Lake Biwa

Bikes (from left) Iwasaki - Kun's, Mine, Sambo's

Japanese Premium Asahi Beer, in a 'frozen' glass!!

Ishizaki-kun (left) Sambo (right)

Asahi and Yakitori (Kawa)

Agedashi Tamago (Bonito Flavoured Omlette)

Salad

So with Sambo and Iwasaki-Kun, we decided to commit ourselves to ride around the lake like before. Sambo was my travel buddy when we did the bike trip of the whole length of Japanese archipelago, namely as Japan Cycle Crossing during the summer of 2007. He is now a bicycle mechanic at Eirin Marutamachi. Iwasaki-Kun is Sambo’s childhood friend who is a keen cyclist who did also ride across Japan, who is now a chef.

Sambo (left) and Ishizaki Kun (right)

Izakaya Catch Up
We met up night before the trip commencement at an Izakaya near Sambo’s place. Izakaya is a type of very small eating and drinking place where tapas kind of traditional Japanese food such as karaage (deep-fried chicken), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers flavoured with sweet soya sauce) and sashimi (sliced raw fish dipped with soya sauce and wasabi) and drink such as beer (Asahi) and local sake and shochu (famous Japanese distilled beverage, usually made from either rice, wheat or potatoes) are served at a reasonable price. To give you some idea, at this particular place, we each paid 2500 yen (about 30AUD) for a few pints of beer and enough food to make us stuffed. This is kind of place is somewhere you need to dine in during the stay in Japan as you will see real face of Japanese local cuisine and its warm hospitality, which are, in my opinion, quite different from other country.

Biwa Ride
After the sleepless night we left Sambo’s place at 4.30am for this main ride. Yes, we, Japanese people work very hard and (therefore?) play tremendously hard. Compromises are not made in any circumstances. In fact, Sambo and Iwasaki-kun had been working whole day prior to the meeting.

Lake Biwa

To get to the Lake Biwa from Kyoto is about a 20km ride, from the Kyoto City centre, easiest way would be riding towards east on Sanjyo Dori (Ave.). The temperature was 3C (26F). Although it is said that this winter is warmer than ordinal winter, coming back from Perth, It was freezing cold.
As we ride along the Lake the sun was rising from the horizon. We stopped by a shrine for a photo stop. There are not many places in this country where you can see a full horizon view as the country is mountainous and heavily developed. Also, there are number of temples and shrines you could visit during the ride of Lake Biwa.

Sunrise by the shrine

Horizon and Sunrise

The morning ride was perfect apart from the cold weather as the sun was up and reasonably few traffic. However, as we rode towards north and time towards noon, the weather started getting cloudy and misty. The weather forecast said it was going to be sunny but it seemed not going to be right.

As we go along, we stopped places called ‘michinoeki.’ Michi (Road) no eki (Station) is a place where tourists can get rest and enjoy local produces. Typically, you find locally produced vegetables, local cuisine and souvenir. There are michinoekis across the country and you can find many of them along the lake side too. (Probably about every 50km).

Yakiimo - Grilled Sweet potato

Local apple

Warabi Mochi and Iwasaki kun

Lake Biwa is a famous destination for cyclists and so the cycle paths are being facilitated too. However, I found that the paths are not very well sign posted. Therefore, map would be helpful for the ride. Otherwise, you will have to ride along the heavy traffic or get lost.

A passimon tree

By 3pm rain was getting stronger and stronger and we were getting sleepier and sleepier. We stopped a place called Nagahama, a town located on the north eastern side of the lake. We found its locally brewed beer, ‘Roman Beer’. In the next moment we found ourselves in a train with handful of the beer. After getting back to Kyoto, we cooked up some Nabe, Japanese hot pot, had the beer. We were supposed to be committed to do the ride but we couldn’t do anything in from of the local beer.

the wet weather

The last stop, Nagahama Railway Station

By the end of the day we realized having fun is always the primary goal for cycling and also we are no longer 19.

Japanese version of this post can be seen in Sabbai’s blog.

Photos for the ride by Sambo are here.

Today’s route

View Larger Map

にほんブログ村

Osaka Hardcourt Bike Polo

2011-12-14T01:05:00.000+08:00

Today , thanks to Monkey san, I had a chance to see and play bike polo with Osaka Harcourt Bike Polo (OHBP) crew at Minatonomori Park in Sanomiya, Hyogo Prefecture.

First, the venue they have is superb. It is a council approved 360 degree fully covered hard court. Although I find it was a bit bigger than what we have in Perth as it was originally designed for roller hockey or some sort, it was something every polo player dreams of. This court was used for the national championship for japan, japan cup this year.

The court - very noice, I can live here

Second I found that the level of players at the OHBP are amazingly high. Especially because the winning team of Japan Cup from this club and consequently played in the world champ too as a national rep.

The OHBP Crew

It would be really great if some of them could fly over Perth to play in the Australasian Hardourt Bike Polo Championship (AHBPC) 2012. Would be awesome to see Australia vs Japan overlooking swan river:)

I have encountered a bike builder, SLiC, who is based in Osaka. Now you can build your custom polo bike with them. I saw the bike, but didn't take the photo of it. I will write about this builder later when I got more information.

With a professionally skilled and very friendly bunch of people and a superb court, If you have chance and bike to play in Osaka, I would really recommend you to visit this very cool club.

Osaka Harcourt Bike Polo

Facebook

Please be careful of deer as they occasionally attack people.

2011-12-12T22:17:00.000+08:00

I have a confession to make.

When I am asked a question, 'where about Japan are you from?' I say, after some consideration, ' I ,,eh,, am from Kyoto'. And people normally react something like, 'ah, Kyoto, I know...'

But I am actually NOT from Kyoto. I am from a small town called 'Nara'.

This is because Kyoto has got an internationally well-established reputation as a tourism destination with its World Heritage Listed historic Townscape as the former capital city of Japan and exciting nightlife.

Whereas Nara is far less known town than Kyoto. If I say 'I'm from Nara', then conversation will not continue anymore. Even for Japanese tourists, Nara is classified as a little brother of Kyoto. People visit Kyoto and visit Nara only when they have some spare time. That is the general perception of Nara. Thus, I have been choosing to locate my hometown in Kyoto since I left Japan.

However, coming back to Nara, I have re-discovered this small town's great value, deer. Nara is one of very few places where deer and human share the place of living. Such place has identified previously in Thooheys's Nuctorial Migration, which was observed presumably in Australia.

There are a number of wild deer in the central tourism district of Nara, Nara Park, also locally known as ,Deer Park. In this place, 'deer rules' apply. as tourists are often a tragically targeted by wild deer. The picture below describe what deer could do to human. First, deer would bite you, then they would kick you, besides, they would butt you and finally the deer would knock you down. That's pretty hard core isn't it. Its like the combination of different marshal arts.

Do you think it is not true, I saw one of the victims, a man been mobbed by a number of deer.

and deer everywhere.

Here is one of the tourism promotional posters of Nara. Its slogan saying:
Wait for me....
I wait for you....

hum,, its deep.

That is a bit about my hometown, Nara.

Hope you find this post useful and will visit Nara next time but be sure you wear appropriate protective gears, just in case.

For more information: Nara

There are some very old temples, shrines and gates too.

V2X6NEHSUX4A

Ready to Roll 2

2011-12-11T22:49:00.001+08:00

Hi winter is already here in Japan but yet the leaving trace of autumn is in the reach.

Pond near my house in Nara

Japanese pampas grass, near my house in Nara

Thanks to Eirin Marutamachi, now, my KatakuraFixie was reborn strongest ever, as the ‘Rising Sun Reverse’. It is more thanready to roll. The carefully but dynamically chosen components are making thebike elegant and beautiful yet very cool.

This is it

Gran Compe 46t

Traditional Nitto Stem and Handlebar

One not so cool point about my bike is thefact that the rear break is installed. This is because the 2 breaks are now compulsoryand incompliances are penalized with a big fine of up to 30,000 yen (400AUD/USD ish) in Kyoto. This new regulation became effective from the first ofDecember 2011 and according to Sankei News, already unfortunate 5 fixie riderswere charged in the first day of the regulation. So as a chicken, I had to buya rear break. So I might take it off when I am back.

Anyways, here are the specifications:

Components	Details
Frame:	Katakura Silk Track Frame
Forks	Panasonic
Handlebars:	Nitto B123
Handlebar Grips:	SoyoGrip – White
Head Parts:	Tange Levin Cds - 1inch JIS
Stem:	Nitto NJ Pro - 115mm
Spacer:	Dia-Compe
Wheel (Front):	Unauthorized Imperial Wheelset - Red
Wheel (Rear):	Unauthorized Imperial Wheelset - Red
Break (Front):	Shimano RX-100
Breaks (Rare):	Dia-Compe 101-Track
Break Leavers:	Testach Eight Arm
Tyers:	Vittoria Zaffiro 700 X 23c - Red
Saddles:	Rolles San Marco - White
Seat Post:	Shimano
Cranks:	Sugino RD Messanger
Chain Ring:	Gran Compe 46T
Rear Sprocket:	16T
Chain:	Deltex Chain
Pedals:	MKS (Mikashima) CR-9 - Silver
Toe Clips	MKS (Mikashima) Toe Clip
Strap	MKS (Mikashima) Fit Alfa Spirit

The bike shop, Eirin Marutamachi is the place to go if youare into classic and, retro bikes as well as latest road, mountain and cycle crossbikes. The more than friendly staff members, such as Nanbu-san and Sanbo aremore than welcome and happy to help you with your needs and imagination of yourideal bike building.

like this

like that

tools are ready

Indeed, Very Classy,

A Bit of a Shock

2011-12-08T22:16:00.001+08:00

So I just flu to Japan. Flu with AirAsia, which is probably so far my best preferred low cost carriers (LCC) with its acceptable quality of service, comfort of seating and low (sometimes very low) fares. On board meals are pretty good too (I guess only if you are a rice lover).

Air Asia

Having lived in Perth for the last three years and been a well Australianised boy, seeing Japan is a bit of a shock. One of the shock I encountered today is the uselessness of credit cards in Japan.

Credit cards are not common at all. To me, This was very strange. Japan is known as one of the most technologically advanced country and accordingly credit cards should be accepted widely but the truth is most of people are still using ONLY notes and coins for purchases of goods and services.
According to What Japan Thinks, credit card usage is increasing and and now 84.6% of Japanese people possess at least one credit cards. However, from what I have been seeing today this results doesn't mean it is commonly used in everyday situations. For example, I have received a number and a number and a number of denials today. At train / bus stations , restaurants, bars, and shops.

Luckily enough, I got some cash on me, but if I didn't I would've been Fatal....

That's it for today.

To end, I would like to share a mystery with you.

I still don't know why people in Japan talk to me in English up until I say a word in Japanese particularly at the airport and the hotel I stayed. Tell me why!

Attached some photos Yes, it's winter here in Kyoto.

Kyoto Tower (in front of Kyoto Station)

Leaves Beautifully Changing Colours by a Pond at Kyoto Sangyo University

My Research Topic, 'Cycle Tourism'

2011-11-30T23:29:00.005+08:00

As a part of my postgraduate study I have undertaken a research in Cycle Tourism this year. I have been well suffered in writing this research and so it was a big relief when I have submitted the research. Although, it is not perfect yet, as I have to polish my research skills well more but it is a completed research. I would like to share a bit with you as I have attached the abstract of my research as follows:

Abstract

Cycle tourism is a growing and high yield sector of the tourism industry in many countries and regions. This article attempts to identify the demographical and motivational characteristics of Organised Cycle Tourists (OCTs), who travel with commercial cycle tour operators as opposed to Independent Cycle Tourists (ICTs), who travel and plan themselves.

The literature review revealed that there is limited scholarly attention given to cycle tourism which may be misleading in the marketing of and developments in the cycle tourism industry. Moreover, it was identified that current studies of cycle tourism mainly focus on ICTs while there is a lack of research concerning OCTs.

A self-compilation survey was undertaken by cycle tour operators from around the world including Europe, North America, Asia and Oceania in order to capture the general picture of OCTs and the current tendencies of cycle tour operators. For the analysis of travel motivation, the research applied the concept of Travel Career Ladder (TCL) and Intrinsic and Extrinsic motivations.

The findings of the study suggest that OCTs are older, and having shorter travel durations in comparison with ICTs. In addition, OCTs are motivated to travel with partners as opposed to ICTs who are likely to travel solo. These notable differences between OCTs and ICTs lead to drawing recommendations which can be further utlised as marketing and product development tools for cycle tourism operators and to base information to develop national or regional cycle tourism strategies.

KEYWORDS: Cycle Tourism, Organised Cycle Tourists, Travel Career Ladder, Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

If you are keen to read more in details I am more than happy to send you the full report as long as you can respect the copyright of my research.

Ready to Roll

2011-11-19T16:43:00.004+08:00

After the devastated bike accident three month ago, my Katakura Pisto Fixie Bike, which acted as my polo bike as well as commuting bike was unfortunately destroyed.

My Katakura Pisto Fixie Bike Now

Since then, I have been gathering bike bits and pieces, trying to build a new bike, which would replace my Katakura Pisto Fixi Bike as well as a bike, acting as a 'polo dedicated bike' which I always had been dying for building one for long, long time. It took a long while as I was getting parts from all over the world while tackling piles and piles of university assignments to do it.

Finally, although minor adjustments will be expected to be made,

It is the show time.

That's it

A dual pull break lever is used. It works perfectly for quick stopping.

BMX cranks are used. They are not commonly used among polo players, and there are few things to consider such as the chain line (you might need to put some spacers) and, distance between the chain and chain stay (if you make the front chain ring too small, the chain might hit the chain stay, making a cracky noise) and the type of bottom bracket (Generally an Euro bottom bracket is required to use BMX cranks with track / road frame), I think it is ideal for polo as first, tough as a bull and second, crazy low gear ratio is possible (mine is 25front/16 rear).

Yeah, of course, it is not the KKK.

The specification as follows:

Compornents	Details	Bought from
Frame:	track, fixed gear frame set 700CX52CM	Cycoole (Ebay)
Forks	track, fixed gear frame set 700CX52CM	Cycoole (Ebay)
Handlebars:	FSA Handlebars Riser XC-282 XC Riser Bar White - 18mm Rise 660mm 31.8	Chain Reaction Cycles
Handlebar Grips:	Spank Grips Tweet Tweet TuggJob Grips 2012 Magic Black	Chain Reaction Cycles
Stem:	Kore Stems - MTB B-52 K34 Stem 2011 Black - 80mm x 31.8mm 1.1/8"	Chain Reaction Cycles
Headset:	Came with the frame	Cycoole (Ebay)
Wheel (Front):	Halo Wheels Factory Road Aerorage Track Front Wheel White 700c	Wiggle
Wheel (Rear):	Halo Wheels Factory Road Aerorage Track Rear Wheel White 700c Fixed/Freewheel	Chain Reaction Cycles
Breaks:	Campagnolo Brakes - Road Centaur Dual Pivot Brakeset 2011 Pair - Black	Chain Reaction Cycles
Break Leavers:	Dual Pull Brake Lever	Mate
Tyers:	Continental Tyres - Road Sport Contact Reflex Tyre 700 x 28c Wire - Black/Reflex	Chain Reaction Cycles
Saddles:	Selle San Marco Rolls Saddle with Steel Rails (White)	Wiggle
Seat Post:	Something Shimano	My old bike
Bottom Bracket:	Eastern Bottom Brackets - BMX Euro Bottom Bracket 19mm - Matte Gold	Chain Reaction Cycles
Cranks:	Ruption Cranksets - BMX Tubular Cranks w/Sealed Mid BB Camo Brown	Chain Reaction Cycles
Chain Ring:	Sputnic Chainrings - BMX Icon BMX Sprocket 25t Red	Chain Reaction Cycles
Rear Sprocket:	Shimano Wheels Hubs Spares Single Speed Freewheel 16t	Chain Reaction Cycles
Chain:	Gusset Chains - BMX Slink Half-Link BMX Chain 1/8" - Silver	Chain Reaction Cycles
Pedals:	Primo BMX Pedals Stricker Plastic BMX Pedals Clear	Chain Reaction Cycles

So, I am getting ready for the AHBPC2012.

Comments, suggestions, and criticisms are welcome.

Hi

2011-07-21T22:27:00.003+08:00

For some reasons, I haven't posted any blog articles for more than a year. Just to grease up this blog I'll write something. it's not gonna be too interesting but hope someone will read it:P

It's just really amazing how things flow so fast and left behind this blog for a such a long time. I can still remember setting up this blog with enthusiasm to share my experience in the unknown country. Well, it did continue a while but, yeah..

Apart from being in Perth many things changed. Academically, I graduated from the collage I'd been studying for more than 2 years, and started a postgraduate study in Tourism at Murdoch University in Perth, in the beginning of this year. It's great to be at university seeing all the opportunities provided and much better recognition than the collage. But also find uni is a place you need to be really proactive need to think and act towards what is the best for my career.

humm, I think that's all for today. Getting sleepy now.

Dramatic Sunset

2009-12-19T22:09:00.002+08:00

Today's sunset was pretty impressive.The sky was on fire. The sky in Perth is somehow larger than other places.

Bike Stolen!

2009-08-08T18:55:00.002+08:00

BIKE STOLEN

Joel's bike has been stolen in Leederville last night. I need your cooperation to find his bike. If you are kind enough, please put this article on your blog as well.

If you find this bike, lock the bike safe and let him or me know where it is.
If you stole this bike, lock the bike safe and let me know where you park: email: okamotoy@hotmail.co.jp (I won't tell you anyone who you are.)

Remember, there is no identical bike anywhere in the world as he built his bike, it is impossible to bug off. We will find the bike sooner or later for sure.

Stolen Date: 7 August (Fri)
Approx Stolen Time: Midnight
Stolen location: Leederville

Bike details

Bike type: Fixed geared bike
Frame: Rode bike frame (Blue)
Handle Bar: Silver drop handle with black grip tape on
Stem: Silver
Seat: Black
Seat Post: Silver
Crank: Black
Peddle: Black with strap on
Chain: Silver
Rim: Black: Front, Velocity Silver: Rear

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Brisbane + Gold Coast + Sunshine Coast + Fraser Island + Byron Bay

2009-07-16T21:44:00.004+08:00

A Dog in Brisbane

Let me share some memories of the trip to the east with you.

Be Dingo Safe

Something on the boat

Adelaide

Surfers Paradise

2 red cars

Rainbow Beach

We tried rock climbing with bare foot!

Rainbow Beach

Fraser Island

A Privilege to be in Australia

2009-06-25T23:41:00.007+08:00

We are the people who can examine these revolutionary products first among the nation of the globe.

The product 1

The product 2

I think the second one would be very interesting and in a way challenging.

Are you jealous? Of course, you are! hahaha

It's winter.....

2009-06-23T23:16:00.004+08:00

Well, time flies. It is already winter now. I used to like winter when I was small but I don't know how I liked it since I started riding bike.

It's been shitty weather now. and I will seem to be for a while.

In addition to that It seems like we are in the middle of the financial downturn. My work place has been extremely quiet. I guess the is no tourists in this City atm.

And on top of that, my left bottom wisdom tooth is in pain...

Come on, sunshine!!

Aussie barbie without Aussie in Australia

2009-06-03T16:12:00.005+08:00

Our ever youngest classmate, Young Dennis. Guess how old?

After the trip to the Sydney I have still been in a holiday for 2 weeks (technically, its time for having an industry placement not holiday but able to have plenty time to play with.) So I had some extra fun stuff with my classmates.

In Perth there are a number of facilities which are free to use for the public. One of them is this riverside barbie* machine. Riverside barbie was an awesome way to chill. Just bring some meat, prawn, veges or whatever you want to grill.

*Barbie: Australian term of BBQ

Barbie Machine

I called up our classmates to enjoy this entertainment. In addition to the breathtaking scenery of the Swan River and Perth City, a supermarket and zoo are ideally located so that it is also very easy to get meat and food on foot. Yes, it's a hands free entertainment! (but be realistic, don't forget to bring salt, pepper, oil, knife, and cleaning kit. Its fairly silly to buy these stuff for just one day)

This kind of barbie gives you a great idea of how to enjoy time in a Australian way (although, there is no Aussie around you). Sit back, have food and beer (alternatively, you can have veges and wine), and talk about nothing serious. Make sure you drink enough, otherwise you can't feel this Australian way of fun.

After the row of barbie, river cruising back to city was waiting for you. This exclusive river cruise is operated by TransPerth, the public transport authority of Perth. This 5 minute- 5 star class cruise(of course you have to believe this is 5 star) cost only $0.80!

So I think this was pretty successful. I want to try this in another venue next time as the riverside barbie is not the only barbie machine in Perth.

If you have a chance to visit Perth or already in Perth wanting some relaxing fun, lets have one! I will be in!

The rest (Blue Mountains, Avoca Beach and Sydney(Bike Polo,Alley-Cat)

2009-05-25T21:00:00.008+08:00

Blue Mountains

This place is famous for its world listed rock formations, the Three Sisters. However, due to the extremely misty (plus stormy) weather, Could only manage to see one of the Three Sis.

One of the Sisters

Ride around the village was fairly present and scenic

Short ride around Katoomba

View Larger Map

Avoca Beach

A bit of bike ride day to see my friend Jack and Jules who live in Avoca Beach. It was a beautiful spot just some 100km north of Sydney. I actually loved this place and the lifestyle people there are having. If I would describe the life style as "every day is a holiday". Hope I can have this sort of lifestyle in the future.

Its good to live near the beach.

Sydney CDB - Circular Quay

View Larger Map
Circular Quay -(Ferry)- Manly
Manly- Palm Beach

View Larger Map
Palm Beach --(Ferry)-- Ettalong Beach
Ettalong Beach - Avoca Beach

View Larger Map

Sydney

Catch up with bike polo crew in Sydney. As bike polo is still not an official sport each city has a different rule. For example in Sydney, the court size of the polo is much much bigger. I felt like playing soccer. It was interesting to play with different rule but It is essential to have a standard rule in order to have national/international competition. But there are common rules as well. It was to have fun games with beer!

Luckily, I had a chance to join an alley-cat as well the last day of the trip. It was my first time to ride around Sydney CBD so was fairly hard to make my own way but its was very enjoyable and got a good idea of Sydney. (Super luckily!! I got a prize as well) Thanks Stephanaa, Lewes and many Sydney crew for such a great time.

for information on Bike Polo and other bike related events in Sydney, visit Le Pista Resistance .

That's it. It was a great trip.

In the train to Blue Mountains. Its a cool system, isn't it?

Canberra 2

2009-05-19T20:47:00.004+08:00

Date:19/May/09
Morning Ride: Canberra City YHA--> Red Hill -->Lake Burley Griffin--> Black Mountain (Telestra Tower) --> National University of Australia
Afternoon Ride: Canberra City YHA-->Old Parliament (Democracy Museum of Australia)--> Australia Parliament---> Embassies --->Lake Burley Griffin

Morning Hill Ride

The 2nd day in Canberra. A bit of exercise from the early morning. Did a good ride plus 2 hill climbs of Red Hill (721m) and Black Mountain (812m) . Bike path along the Lake Burley Griggin is well maintain and the beautifully modified landscape of the city and cool temperature gives me perfect venue to cycle.

Afternoon Political Ride

After lunch, head toward the old and present parliament. I took a free tour at the old parliament which allow me to learn the history of the parliament building and formation of democracy in Australia. I am not particularly into these two areas but It was good to know anyway.

After the parliament tours, I had a look at the embassy area of Canberra . It was really interesting area as you can see many different type of building from all over the world in such a small area.

Left Canberra at 4.00p.m. arrived Sydney 7.30p.m.

Tomorrow is Blue Mountains. Hope the weather won't get worse.

Canberra

2009-05-18T21:02:00.003+08:00

Well well well, shortly after my birthday, somehow now I am in Canberra, the bush capital of Australia. Since I have took a red eye flight from Perth to Sydney and straight to Canberra by bus I didn't have much sleep from yesterday morning today. However I visited some sites.

I was surprised the fact that here in Canberra I can't really find Aussies in T-shirts and shorts, and it also made me realised that Perth's winter is not winter. Its COOLER SUMMER!!

As Canberra is perfectly designed city. Its really hard to get lost. It means its a great place to cycle around! Actually I found many people cycling on the rode. However drivers here seem a bit nasty. Even there many riders are No fixies are spotted.

Until the sleepiness stops me writing I write about the place I visited today.

The war memorial. This well maintained place would be sensational if you are found of architecture or history of Wars in general.

Humm, I don't think I can continue anymore too sleepless, dude. Good night.

Best Shot

2009-05-13T01:17:00.002+08:00

Rotto was nice.

Harvest Ride

2009-05-04T21:46:00.005+08:00

Great ride, good hills, fresh fruits!

organic apples

It is pretty awesome that just one and half hour ride take you to a beautiful country. I think this is one of the privilege of living in Perth. Reasonable up hills of 5km make your leg muscles stimulate and the friendliness and welcome of the village people make you wish to come back again. The scenery of Perth form the hill is just breathtaking.

We got this far!

To enjoy this ride, it is strongly recommended to depart in the early morning as traffic gets pretty busy even in the late morning also waking up early make your day longer.

Ride Facts

Tour Date:03/MAY/2009
Number of Participants: 2 (Yohei, Joel)
Weather: Sunny
Distance:68.5km
Avarage: - km/h
Max Speed: - km/h
Course: Perth--(Bike)--Perth Hill--(Bike)--Pickering Brook--(Farm Walk+Breakfast)--Pickering Brook--(Bike)--Perth
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Traffic: Busy (Specially on Welshpool rd)
Would you do this again?: No doubt, Definitely.

Japanese style garden (?)

Sunset from Subiaco

Harvest Ride (3/MAY/09)

2009-05-02T00:18:00.003+08:00

You never shall forget to appreciate farmers' contribution for us. That's the concept of this ride.

This week we will head off to Pickering Brook, to see their autumn harvest festival.
Bickley & Carmel Harvest Festival http://www.bickleycarmeltourism.jkwh.com/HarvestFestival2009.htm

Ride Date: 03/MAY/2009(SUN)
Destination: Pickering Brook(Proposed Course)
Rode Type: On road (All Sealed)
Bike Type: ANY
Departure Time: 7.30am
Departure Point: Forrest Place, Perth (In front of round thingi)
Riding Distance: 68.5km
*As usual experience is not required, but your guts are ESSENTIALLY required

View Larger Map

Heaps of uphills are waiting for you!!! Hope see you all on sunday.

NJS Sale

2009-05-01T18:23:00.004+08:00

Since one of my friends from Japan is visiting me, he can give you good offer for NJS parts!!

There are range of parts on sale, and he try to make it reasonably cheap as it will be directly from Japan in his hands.

Prices are all negotiable. If you tell me what you want, leave comment here or give me a massage to okamotoy@hotmail.co.jp I will advise you how much it will be.

There are more range of NJS parts. Click here for more.

Application close on 13th of May 2009

Yanchep Ride

2009-04-23T21:41:00.008+08:00

Kangaroos

Koala

Scab B

Yancheup Ride

Great ride! Sleeping Koaras, Brethfeeded Kangaroos, beachs and beer!

Ride Facts

Tour Date:23/APR/2009
Number of Participants: 3 (Yohei, Joel, Jana)
Weather: Pertly Cloudy
Distance:79.11km
Avarage: 17.40km/h
Max Speed: 54.7km/h
Course: Perth--(Train)--Clarkson--(Bike)--Yanchep NP--(Foot)--Yanchep NP--(Bike)--Clarkson--(Train)--Greenwood--(Bike)--Scabrough B--(Bike)--Leederville
(MAP)
Difficulty: Beginner - Intermediate
Traffic: Busy (but only on Wannaroo RD)
Would you do this again?: Definetly

Description:
With this ride you can encounter the wilderness of Australia. In Yanchep NP, there is one of the biggest koala colonies in WA which you can spot koalas in the park. Also there are a number of Kangaroos, birds and other Australian wild animals in the park. The park itself is well facilitated with a cafe, restaurants, barbie area, accommodation, and beautiful picnic area. However, the ride to the NP is a bit boring as the way is flat and quite a lot of traffic on the most of the way. But it is certainly recommended ride for people who are new to Australia or who want to get out of Perth.

The next ride is on 3rd of May. The details will be updated soon.

Yanchep Ride Information(23/APR/09)

2009-04-22T23:20:00.003+08:00

I am pretty much sure that this is too late but I am kind of person who keep promises.
Here is the full details:

Ride Date: 23/APR/2009(THU)
Destination: Yanchep NP and surroundings (Proposed Course)
Rode Type: On road (All Sealed)
Bike Type: ANY
Departure Time: 8.00am
Departure Point: Forrest Place, Perth (In front of round thingi)
Riding Distance: 94.5km
*Experience is not required, but your guts are ESSENTIALLY required

Hope see you all tomorrow.

Ride (23/APR/2009)

2009-04-21T21:46:00.005+08:00

Joel and I are organising a ride on this Thursday, 23rd of April.

We haven't decide the details of the ride but Ill let you know.

Ride Date: 23/APR/2009(THU)
Destination: TBA (Possibly Yanchiup NP or somewhere nice)
Rode Type: On road (All Sealed)
Bike Type: ANY
Departure Time: TBA (Probably in the early morning)
Departure Point: TBA(Probably Perth CBD)
Riding Distance: up to 100km
*Experience is not required, but your guts are required

Want to learn the art and philosophy of cycling? This would be a great chance for you!
I'll update this with full details by tomorrow night. Any inquiry? let me know.

Concern

2009-04-18T21:21:00.003+08:00

It has been a month since finally, I have become a part-time travel consultant at a travel agency in Perth. The job's been hard and I have to work long hours but also it gives me a practical and first hand experience in the industry and a great range of knowledge about the tourism of Australia, which are all great. Besides, I found fun to provide an assistance with customers' travel needs.

At the same time, since I have been dedicated my time for the job for the past month Consequently, I haven't had a descent amount of time for leisure like having bike rides. That is a concern but not the concern.

Anyway, even it was really harsh weeks, the job went reasonably well for the first 3 weeks. I had gained some product knowledge and started to be able to sell some tourism products around and outside of Western Australia.

But

This week's been crazy. My sales went a steep decline. I end up with a only a bit of sales and I am feeling like I completely lost my small confidence I gained from the last weeks. I can see a wall in front of me. But I have no idea how I can overcome the wall.

That's my struggling story of the concern.

Selling is not easy. Polo is not easy.

c ya

冒険心

2009-04-01T21:10:00.003+08:00

それは

昨日のことです。

朝一からちょっとくさりかけで食べんとやばいなーっと思ってたすももを3つ食べて。

学校ついたらバナナとコーヒーというあまりない組み合わせで食べて飲んだら。

そしたら

腹がギュルギュルーってなって、腹痛い。

やっぱ、冒険し過ぎるのはあかんなーと思う今日このころ。

Egg

2009-03-19T23:41:00.002+09:00

When I was riding back home today. I was on Beaufort street.

It was about 9.30 pm. As I riding near the Red Rooster, suddenly I felt pain on my back. It was a egg. Someone threw egg toward me and it hit my back. The guy who threw the egg was in the car and drove away as he threw the egg.

There are two reasons I can think of why he threw a egg toward me.

1. He didn't like Cyclists
2. He didn't like Asian people

Whatever the reason was, I was not happy about this and as the car just gone and didn't have time to have a word with him. And actually I didn't do anything wrong on the street. So I will take a legal action in order to punish him.

I am going to Police tomorrow to report this issue. I'm pretty sure that the police will not take this seriously but I think this is important to keep reporting this sort of issues.

Fortunately, I'm not injured this time but it could cause a serious accident. I'm sure that the guy who threw the egg will not read this article but if he happens to read this article I want to tell him that "all cyclists and Asian people don't accept such an anti social activity."

Luckily I was waring a jacket

PCP 15 Mar + Ramen check - Nao (Murray St)

2009-03-15T23:11:00.004+09:00

Bike polo is getting aggressive.
Since we've got quite a few people today, we did matches with 4 people aside instead of 3. It actually worked but the court can get a bit too crowded. I personally think 3 each side is a good number.

There was no chance to take polo this week, but I nicely took a photo.
Have a look.

It was a actually great art

Went another ramen restaurant other day. It was on Murray st near Barrack st. The restaurant was called Nao. It offers wide range of ramen such as Syoyu Ramen(Soy souce flavor ramen), Miso Ramen (Miso Flavored ramen) and Sio Ramen (Salt flavoured ramen). I tried sio ramen. The taste was okay. Not bad, but didn't made me impressed. But what I suprised about this ramen was that while I was having the soup of the ramen. Some solid stuff came into my mouth. I wonded what it was. It was actually a piece of GLASS. God I felt scared.

Sio Ramen (Salt flavoured ramen)

Peth Ramen Style : Eating a bowl of Ramen like having a mug of late at street-side cafe.

PCP Mar 8 + Badminton

2009-03-08T22:00:00.003+09:00

Yeah, its was a great session today, since we've got 7 people to play polo. Yes, it is getting extremely popular (no?). Also, the equipments are getting ready. Some people are making their own mallets (actually, I found a adjustable used mop with stainless stick so I can make my own mallets by next week!!)

Polo Mallets
Nice Walls

We had a couple of nice games, and had a some refreshments as well.

For people who are not familiar with bike polo and PCP (Perth Cycle Polo): PCP Official HP
For people who wish to join the community of the PCP on the facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=58412725979

There was another occasion which made me a bit excited.
I met a former world badminton champion of the world. She won the world title for 5 times. Since badminton is one of my biggest hobbies it was like seeing Lance Armstrong, man!

Paparazzi!!!!

PCP Feb 28 + Ramen

2009-03-04T23:14:00.006+09:00

Bike polo went well with some unexpected visitors last Sunday.

Anyone could be welcomed to play polo if you are riding something I guess lets say scooter, tricycle, or even skateboard or whatever.

Its heaps of fun and beer tastes great after the game.

An Image of having heaps of fun

Had Ramen, Japanese style Chinese noodles, which is one of my favorite foods at the market in Freo other day.

The name of restaurant is Doskoi, named after the screaming voice of Sumo wrestlers. It is one of a rare restaurants which serves the legendary ramen in Perth. I'm sure you will enjoy it.

Negi Kara Ramen (Spicy Ramen with Spring Onion on Top) $9.00

How do you like my CV

2009-02-23T20:11:00.004+09:00

I was choosing a image for the cover page of my CV.

How do you think if you recieve this?

hmm, its hard to get a job....

Oz Oz Oz Oz OZ DAY

2009-01-27T20:55:00.007+09:00

OZ day, behave yourself!

In Australia people celebrate their national day of 26th of January, known as OZ day, having party with barbie (Australian term of BBQ), beer, fireworks, paddle pool and of course bike (in our case).
It was like that. Thanks Ash for inviting me for such a sensational party.

I want to write something about the party but I can't clearly remember what was exactly happening there since I couldn't help myself to have a sleep of 2 hours during the party as I had a bottle of wine.

But I took some photos that carry me back the time.

ohhh Hey Prof!oops, flat tire

Look, the Aussie flag is flying in the sky!

Title: Mohigan + Fireworks The Dark Side of The Moon, Pink Floyd

That's it. Oh by the way, I'm into a band called Pink Floyd at the moment. It's a band from 1970's but the sound is still really new, it actually doesn't sound out of date at all. I felt really shame that I didn't know this one of the greatest band of the planet ever when I heard the music for the first time. If you still don't know this band I extremely highly recommend you to try. I don't attach the link to the music video because I want you to listen the whole album from the first track to the last track continuously.

Broken Ribs and a Broken Rim

2009-01-18T20:41:00.005+09:00

3. 2. 1. Polo!!!!

Gosh, this is my second writing today. So intense!!

I went to play bike polo today as usual and finally it happened to me and Brad in the middle of an exciting game.

The chest of Brad hit my handle bar and my rim hit his frame.

These were the consequences.

1. Suspiciously, Brad has got his ribs broken.

2. My bike's front rim bend (dead).

ohhh.....He's got a pitiful bruise on his chest......My front rim is dead, luckily the hub is still fine.

I hope Brad will survive from the pain soon and I pray my rim's soul may rest in peace.

Lazy Weekend

2009-01-18T15:07:00.007+09:00

This weekend was too lazy one.

Sat
Me and Joel went cycling to Armadale as I found a dam on my street directory of Perth.
It was a ride of 30km. It was fiarly short ride but half of ride was just steep up hill.
But its was nice ride as well. Green forests, some picnic area and the dam was massive.
It would be an ideal 1 day cycling destination.

Sun
Today, I was suppose to finish all my assignment, but I've been too lazy. Even I woke up at 9.00 and started doing assignment, it hardly has got any progress.

Gosh, I feel like I have to be more productive.

Oh shit, its nearly time to Sunday Polo!

Better finish work and start packing now! Take it easy, mate!

Massive Bike

2009-01-13T21:20:00.005+09:00

Found in front of the city library today. 4 panias (2 back and 2 front) and 7 water bottles (applox 11 little). Wearing mud guards and small gearing thick block tires for any killer hills and any harsh weather and road conditions.

This is the real outback touring bike, man!

2009のごあいさつを簡単に

2009-01-10T00:00:00.006+09:00

大変遅ればせながら、新年明けましておめでとうございます。

昨年は病気になって死にそうになるし、体がだめなら気分も何だかすぐれない時期が続きまして、自分の中での厄年という認識をしています。

噂では本気の厄年は今年らしいのですが、自分の中では終わった話なので気にしてません。

今年の目標は"強くなる!"ことです。
具体的には

平均時速40キロです。

目標は大きく!ですね!おおきすぎですね。40だったらぷろになれますね。

昨年度は何かとお世話になりました。今年いっぱい皆様に会う可能性は地理的に非常に低いわけではありますが、今年もひとつよろしくお願いします。

みなさんの健康を祈って、乾杯!

P.S.こちらぱーすではさいくるぽろ(Cycle Polo)がことしのぶーむになりそうです!

Perth Cycle Polo Representatives, Perth

岡本洋平
2009年元旦＋α

Touring Blog Out Now!!! 今度は。。。

2008-12-16T23:43:00.003+09:00

今度は西オーストラリアをチャリンコで旅することにした!

ブログを作ったので要チェック!

Finally the new blog for my bike touring is completed. I am off tomorrow morning. See you guys next year! have a great Christmas and a happy new year!

Ride Down Under

http://ridedownunder.blogspot.com/

Ride Saturday?

2008-12-04T21:38:00.005+09:00

Hey

Does anyone want to go to have a long picnic ride of 50-100km ish (on road) this Saturday?

Maybe to lotto, some beaches or mountains around.

What my desired plan is Perth - Freo - Lotto - Freo - Perth.

You think about it.

Weekend Special

2008-12-02T23:19:00.012+09:00

It was a quiet tight weekend. Just writing to remind me what I did so there are no many funny points in the story but it would be great if you read this.

Friday
Went to Perth Airport to see Kimi off. He was in Perth for just 3 weeks, but studied English, visited many sights in WA, caught up with our fixie crew and did the Great Bike Ride as well. I think He fairly did enjoy Perth in such a short time.
His next destination is Honolulu, yes, he is going to do the Honolulu Century Marathon next!! Yeah, he is a really active ass isn't he?

Hope he will enjoy Honolulu as well.

After seeing him off, as I took bike there I had a ride toward 15km east to what called Lemurdie Falls. It was pretty impressive one. And there was quite nice rode around the falls as well, it could be a good picnic ride.

Saturday
Went to Paul's 20th Birthday in Greenwood. Met up with some mates and had some beer and vodka. was really cool party. Congratulations on stepping on the line of adult, Paul!

In the night there was a concert held by a NGO I work for in North Perth. The NGO is called "Information for Action". This NGO provides information about environment issues around the globe and show you what you can do for the issues through its web page. The president of the NGO is pretty funny guy, he sings he dances and he is a osteopaths as well. The concert was hosted by him with his music and shows. He will host another show in 3 weeks (maybe 4 weeks) so If you want to know what's going on in the world environment, come along.Information for Action

Anyway the concert and after talk went till late and the entire thing finished at 12.30.

Went home, and there was a letter from my home stay mum.
"ABALONE FISHING TOMORROW AT 6.30"

This time of a year it is allowed to catch abalone for limited time if you have a license.

umm impossible. of course I couldn't make it. too sleepy, man.

When I wake up at 10, there was another letter like this.

"If you want to have abalone breakfast come to Hillarys at 9.00"

You know what, abalone is very very expensive in my country. It easily cost 30 bucks for 1 abalone!
I knew it was too late but I called homestay mum and asked.

"Is there still abalone available?"

"Yes but you gotta be hurry."

"Ok, I will be there by 11, bye"

It too precious I couldn't miss it. I push myself feeling a bit of headache (probably from last night) rode on my bike. Ride through the coastline watching bikini girls which make me love beaches and make me want to live in the beach front.

Anyway, I got to Hillarys and finally had breakfast. it was 11.30.

Enjoyed abalone of 5 or 6 (which is equivalent of roughly 150 bucks in JPN). and slowly head home.

By the time I got home it was 2pm.

There was my last big event left for this weekend.
There was a show of BLOC PARTY, a rock band from the UK.
It was cool.

(I'm getting bothered writing this I stop somewhere here. apologies for my negligence)
but let me finish with......
Last but not least, did you see this smile in the sky yesterday(Monday night)?

It's beautiful isn't it?

Great Bike Ride Result レース結果報告

2008-11-26T20:42:00.006+09:00

Here is the results of the race Kimi and I did last Sunday.

Race Facts

2008 Great Bike Ride (106km)

704 Participants
(612 goaled /92 withdrew)

2:31:05 Fastest time
42.1kph Fastest Average Speed

Yohei

Rank: 479
Avg Speed: 30.4kph
Time: 3:29:43

Kimi

Rank: 529
Avg Speed: 28.4kph
Time: 3:43:57

2008 GBR Result.pdf

Great result, huh?
あかんかった........

Too great, man!

2008-11-23T22:24:00.005+09:00

There was a bike race, the Great Bike Ride, today. It was my first time to join an official rode race. To be honest, the race didn't start with good fun but with totally unexpected and bitter experience.

As soon as the race started, I felt that the back rim is hitting the ground.

Gosh.

Can you believe that I've got the first puncture of the race? I blamed my destiny.
I had to replace the tube and pump it up while almost all riders were a passing through next to me. People are watching me saying like "oh, poor boy". I really wanted to cry.

By the time I get my flat tyre repaired, there was no one around me. I was the bottom.

It wasn't only unlucky occasion on the race, there was another one coming at the beginning of the second lap. I was pretty much catching up with group ahead and riding in the group of a cycling club. They go with a good average of around 35 ish. I just tried to move on to the next group so over took the group and try to go further.

But, the destiny didn't allow me to do so. I felt my front rim hitting the ground next.

Gosh.Oh my goodness.....

"Again" I thought and sadly there was no spare tube left. So I had to go with flat tyre for the rest of around 50km. I pumped up the front tyre every 5-10 km besides there was full of people on the rode. They were really slow and shut the rode.

But at least I finished the race which was a good thing. It was a challenging for me in many ways and learned a lot from the race like. I'll definitely do this race again next year and will carry a box of tube. The result will be announce tomorrow on the web page of the race.

I will put the result here tomorrow.

Wooooooooo

2008-11-22T22:07:00.006+09:00

The race is on tomorrow, put oil on chains, cleaned chains and gears and had some beer. things are all done just hope its not gonna rain.

Me and my bikeKimi and his bike

The result will be come up tomorrow...

Fatigue

2008-11-15T22:19:00.005+09:00

I did 7 laps of the great bike ride (1 lap: 53km) this week and I found that cycling is very fun!

But the problem is that the some portion of physical fatigue from the previous day reminds on the next day, so eventually the speed is getting slower day by day. By the end of this week the time was more than 15 minuets longer than the fastest one recorded on Monday. I think I'm getting old, no no ... becoming more mature, good. So I feel like I have to keep up my physical recovering speed. (now I don't know what I'm talking about.......)

and another thing is since I was riding bike too much, my bike chain broke. and something wrong with my bike computer it recorded a max speed of 130.53 sometime yesterday and now it is out of order.

woo, technology is mysterious

Well, I'm writing too much about myself today. Let me stop something here.

If you want to do a picnic ride around the swan river tomorrow, come along to the bell tower at 12.00. I'll take care of ya!

Does anyone

2008-11-15T11:31:00.002+09:00

want to have an EASY Swan ride tomorrow before the Sunday Fix? (Starting at 12.00 ish)

Monday Swan Ride

2008-11-09T20:12:00.008+09:00

There is the Monday Swan Ride as usual.

We will meet up at the Bell Tower, Perth at 4.45pm and start at 5.00 sharp.

Ride Information:

Distance: 53km
Average speed: 25-27km/h ish

The route:

Click here to check the Route(PDF)

*we might grab some pints after the ride.

Don't miss it! It will be a great chance for you to get rid of hangover from the weekend and the Monday depression.

Any question? Leave comments or txt me!

I did this ride this morning and FINALLY reached over the average of 30km/h YAY!

Here is the result:
(09 November 2008)

Distance: 53km
Time: 1:40:41

Avg. Speed: 31.29km/h

Getting better, isn't it?

Please Welcome

2008-11-08T01:10:00.003+09:00

The world is in a fairly good mood since the new favourble president is elected.

Here is one more good news for you.

My mate, Kimi is scheduled to arrive in Perth this coming Sunday mornig from Kyoto, Japan via Indonesia.

He will catch up with us on the Sunday fix either this week or next week on my Beanchi.

It will be his first time to touch the ground of the land down under.

Kimi

Please warmly welcome our new mate with our great pints and pizza.

Mock Great Bike Ride

2008-11-05T14:19:00.009+09:00

It's been 2 days though, with Prawza and his friend Alex, there was a ride on Monday at 5.oopm to try the course of the Great Bike Ride. Trying the route gave me a great idea of the race.

We'll do this next Monday as well no matter what the weathers are, so come along and have a great fitness madness. We meet at the bell tower (Green one) at 4.45 and start at 5.00. The ride will be reasonably relaxed with some occasional sprinting. Fixies and rodies are warmly welcome.

I officially registered myself for the Great Bike Ride. Maybe this race is going to end up with either having good fun or having a serious injury. Well, you'll see.

I feel like being artistic today so I made some graphic designs, which anyone could think of.

1. I love fixie

2. I love classic fixie

3. I love brakeless fixie

Oh I just remembered that I bought a pair of clipless pedals and shoes (Shimano SPD SLI) at Ideal Cycle. I still feel bit wired and I fall once already and hurt my left ankle but I hope these stuff make my ride a bit faster.

good night

日本全国町おこし / Japan Cycle Crossing

2008-11-03T21:55:00.005+09:00

Why not introduce you my second blog which officially terminated last year.

日本全国町おこし / Japan Cycle Crossing (Ameblo.jp)

This blog was for the 49day bicycle trip of the full length of Japan with my mate, Sanbo. You can see the days I spent during the trip with photos.

Travelling is something I can't live without it. Particularly on bike, it makes me feel high!

What I really like about travelling is probably that I can forget about the complicated realities, once a trip is kicked off, my main concern of a day would be very simple: what to eat, where to sleep, and how much I can go today. That's it. I am no longer need to be anxious about exams, annoying studies, works, and all administrative stuff. It sounds like escaping from the real world but It does make me feel much alive and encountering incredibly beautiful sceneries and landscapes take my breath away and different people with divers background give me many fantastic ideas of life and possibilities.

At the northern top point of Japan, Cape Soya

I hope you enjoy reading the blog and I certainly enjoy sharing my experience.

Red Bull Air Race

2008-11-02T19:03:00.004+09:00

Perth turned into the most remarkable city in the globe today. Yes, probably you already know that the Red Bull Air Race Final was taken place in Perth.

Thousands of people gathered around the Swan River to share the most exciting and coolest moment.

Luckily, I grabbed a seat on the beach with a great view, and the weather was just perfect!

Even I didn't fully understand the rule of the Air Race, I could pretty much enjoy it with their amazing and unbelievable acrobatic performances, and its atmosphere, music and stages.

You can get the overall idea of the Red Bull Air Race on:
Red Bull Race World Series (You Tube)

Photos:
Red Bull Air Race Final (Picasa)

New Skin Design

2008-11-02T00:11:00.004+09:00

There is no dialy for today. Instead, I renewed the skin of this blog.

Phew,

Halloween Alley Cat Photos

2008-11-01T02:56:00.004+09:00

GO to: Halloween Alley Cat Photo Album (Picasa)

1.5 Hour Trial

2008-10-30T21:00:00.006+09:00

I just wanted know how much I could do at the moment. so I undertook 1.5 hour bike trial myself today.

Here is the result:

1.5 hour bike trial (30 October 2008)

Trip Distance: 37.23 km

Average Speed: 28.98 Km/h

It's such a miserable result. It's definitely lack of stamina I'm not even able to reach an average speed of 30 km/h......

well, there are some excuses to make.

I had to stop some times by the signals.

It was a windy day.

well, it all could happen in the real race.

I need to speed up at least 30% by the day of the race.

One thing, Don't miss the Halloween Alley-Cat. It's on tomorrow.

The Flyer:

For more information on the Halloween Alley-Cat visit:
http://shitcitybikeclub.blogspot.com/

Oh, shit I still haven't find what to wear.

Tell me if you know a good place to buy fancy death dresses.

THE GREAT BIKE RIDE presented by City of Perth

2008-10-29T22:18:00.005+09:00

I found an interesting notice on the paper this morning.

There is a 106km and 53km road race around the Swan River on 23rd of November. It's called 'The Great Bike Ride'

For people who don't know about the Swan River:

The Swan River is probably the most well known symbol of the city of Perth that runs right next to the CBD of Perth to the Indian Ocean. As it's connected to the ocean swan, river is a saline river so I heard that you can see sea animals like dolphins sometimes, and of course, swans as well (but note that swans in Perth are BLACK).

Here I show you some photos of the Swan river:

I'm kind of thinking of taking part in this race by my fixie bike (Gear Ratio- Front:Back/46:15).

Do you think I'm crazy? If you don't think it's crazy, fairly cool, you are already fixie geek!

Well, but I need to see the course first.

For more information on the Great Bike Ride visit:
http://www.greatbikeride.com.au/

The course (PDF):
http://www.greatbikeride.com.au/docs/map.pdf

Tuesday Arvo

2008-10-28T22:22:00.004+09:00

Since I only have class in the morning on weekdays I usually wonder around Perth every afternoon after class except the day I work .

I went to a bike shop in Fremantle as I heard it sells a variety of bike gears cheaply. It did. well, I don't know much about bike but a built wheel (rim: velocity's deep rim hub: sorry forgot but fairly smooth one...) was around $150. and tires are much cheaper than bike shops in city, man. You'd better check it out!

It's called 'Ideal Cycles' on 380 South Street Fremantle (search on Google for more details)

I bought a rear gear with 19 teeth and attached on the other side of my back wheel to make pedal lighter in order to enjoy doing tricks and skidding.

On the way back, I remembered that BLOC PARTY would come for a concert to Perth in the end of November. So I went to a record shop, Planet, in North Perth to check if there were still some left or not. God, There was plenty left.
Apparently, the venue's capacity was expanded due to unprecented demand and selling 8000 more tickets. and the shop still had 300 left. It's $79.99 /p

I think I'm going get one but I wanted to check the new album of them before I make a decision. so just bought their new album 'INTIMACY', which just released on 25th.

Bloc Party

Then I got home, had dinner and inserted the CD into my computer to listen to it.

.......................................

..............

....

not working...

gosh!

this picture describes my present feeling:

BIKE POLO NIGHT

2008-10-26T22:47:00.005+09:00

There was a fixie night today as usual, well, since the day light saving started from today here it is no longer a fixie NIGHT though.

It was a bit different from ordinal fixie night, didn't do any tricks. Instead we did a sport.

I have never seen this kind of sport. It is called Bike Polo (or Cycle Polo). It is basically same as polo, you know the one on the Polo Shirts. For bike polo we simply use bikes instead of horses. But it is more bloody than you think if you play this sport with fixie bikes (some are even brakeless with binding pedals). I saw many crashes and fallings during the game.

Bike Polo is like this:

and if you play this with fixie bikes it would be like this:

and if you form a team it would be like this:

It's a fun sport as long as you don't mind get injured!

Park Bikes Properly

2008-10-21T22:01:00.005+08:00

this the propre way to park bikes, man.

スローライフへようこそ

2008-10-17T16:40:00.002+08:00

授業が月曜日と火曜日しかない（しかも授業時間２時間半）今日この頃、僕の生活はサイクリングから始まりサイクリングで終わっているような気がします。

日曜日：地元のおっちゃんおばちゃんとサイクリング
　　　　　カフェ
　　　　　地元のピスティー達とトリックの練習＋街中サイクリング
　　　　　パブでビールとピザ
　　　　　
月曜日：よく寝る
　　　　　昼から学校
　　　　　パブでビール

火曜日：少し勉強
　　　　　昼から学校
　　　　　ネットサーフィン

水曜日：引越し

木曜日：朝サイクリング
　　　　　昼サイクリング
　　　　　夜自転車整備

金曜日：朝サイクリング
　　　　　自転車屋めぐり
　　　　　
オーストラリアのスローライフ。恐るべし。
学生なのかニートなのかわからんようになってた

What's a Day. 2

2008-10-14T12:04:00.010+08:00

'I want you to pack your stuff and leave.' he said quietly.

Actually, it was my second time for this failure. So I said okay, anyway I was suppose to leave the house on the coming Tuesday and to be honest, I didn't really feel comfortable with the conditions they offered to me.

These were like that:
1. $5 for laundry (plus bring your own detergent)
2. Not providing, juice, milk and water (Get your own)
3. Everyday different dinner time (8.00 pm on average)
4. No 'one-more go' for dinner
5. It takes 50 mins by bus to the city
6. Bread, ham and cheese are basically the only food provided for lunch and breakfast

I'm not complaining about the condition but I was paying this for AU$220 per week. So, you know its quiet a lot of money, I didn't think it worth staying there so I decided to move.

Anyway, by the failure possibilities of staying there until next Tuesday was ruled out.
There was no dinner provided on the last day and no refund as well.

I had some Tim tam chocolate which I bought couple of days ago left on the my desk, packed my stuff and hit a hey. Feeling of sadness and hunger made me unable to sleep well....

Next day (Saturday)I went to my neighbour who takes care of other international student from the same institute to leave most of my stuff until I move to my next home-stay family as I was planing to stay in a backpackers' hostel for couple of days with minimum amount of luggage. They kindly said okay and I brought my stuff.

I saw 2 bikes with flat tires in the garage at their house and they asked me if I can fix them. As I ride bike like a crazy cow it wasn't big deal for me to do it so I repaired the two bikes. Surprisingly, they invited me lunch. I was so happy as I haven't had proper meals since the night before. and I also surprised by their meal. It was actually really good I saw the big difference between two home stay hosts on the same street.

After the lunch I move to a backpackers' hostel called Governer Robinsons in the city (North bridge). Even though it was a bit expensive($28 per night for dorm) I loved it with its clean and cozy rooms, kitchen and a warm and friendly atmosphere of the hostel.

Conclusion of this story:
Cycling is very fun!

End

What's a day.

2008-10-12T15:24:00.003+08:00

There is a story that i want to share with you.

On the last Friday, I was off to cycling as usual after school. I was kind of board because my class is just really short, was a self study type and what I did in the first week in the class was just typing practice.

Ayway, I went cycling for a while to check out one of the lakes near my house. One the way to the lake there was a massive park and I saw a group of kangaroos running in the park far away. It was actually my first time to see them.

When I came back to my home. There was a hoemstay daddy at home, using the Internet as usual. Somehow, he seemed to be upset. He looked at me and said 'where have you been, Yohei?' I said 'Just cycling to a lake' and he continued 'did you lock the key? it wasn't lock when I came back home, it was completely open'. He told me that I must lock the key and set the alarm when I was the last person at home. and It seemed like I forgot to lock. So I apologies for the mistake.

He was still upset and said quietly:

I want you pack your stuff and leave here by tomorrow's noon.

To be continued.....

Check out my picasa!

2008-10-04T03:09:00.004+08:00

Hey, I just met some of messengers and fixed gear riders here in Perth. I have put photos of them on my Picasa (Web Photo Album).　Have a look!

My New Blog! ブログを新しく開設しました！

2008-09-29T19:53:00.004+08:00

Welcome

to newly opened Yohei's blog.

How are you?

As a new stage of my life is just started in Perth, Australia, I opened a new blog here!

I am thikning of writitng something to keep informing you what I am doing here and to use English for my language improvement But I write bolg when I feel like on a whim so don't expect this blog to be updated everyday.

Hope you will enjoy reading my blog and you are more than welcome to leave messages here.

If you click the photo on the bottom of this page, you will be able to access to my web photo album as well.

Have a great night

Yohei

気持ち新たに心機一転、ブログを新しく開設しました。

これからはこのブログを通じてオーストラリアからの情報を発信していこうと思っているんで、よかったらチェケラしてみてください！！

下のスラードショーの写真をクリックすると、僕のPicasaへジャンプするので、写真はそちらからチェケラして下さいね！まだ、このブログの使い方良く分かってないんで徐々に機能を増やしていくので、同じブログを使っている人はまた教えてください。

では、ごきげんよう。

今日は日記は書かないけど、写真を1枚。分かる人にはわかるこのレアな一枚をおいておきます。

(彼には早速到着2日目道で偶然会いました。)

From 28.9.08Perth

test

2008-09-12T22:41:00.002+08:00

Dear All,

Thank you for reading my test blogging.

Let me start this blog with introducing myself.

My name is Yohei. The easyest way to call me is Yo! Hey! By calling me in that way, you can easily remember my name, which is not improtant.

Anyway, I'm thinking of using this blog for reporting interesting events or happnings from Perth, Australia so that you can know what I'm doing here as well as the attractiveness of Perth.

Also, I am writing this blog for my language improvement. As I'm really a lazy person, I'm hoping that this blog will make me force to write something in English everyday.

Finally, I would like to say thank you in advance for try to read my bad english.

Yohei