Despite the rainy weather, the Trikke for Heart and Stroke had a small attendance by Trikkers. The north part of the city was still raining when the start of the route began. We believe this north weather condition had a lot to do with the small turn out. Compared to last year the west bound route was a dream as there was very little wind. A dry, smooth and open westbound Gardner Expressway was enjoyed by those who were lucky enough to participate.

The up down and around of the turn around point was as bumpy as ever, and the Trikkers had a much easier time navigating the surface than the roller bladers. From that point forward and on to the finish it was smooth sailing.

I would say more than any event that we've participated in, the Ride for Heart and Stroke has the largest visibility. When you're coming in to the finish line, all the bikers waiting to get on the route are still in line. And this would be thousands of on-lookers. It was too much fun to turn so many heads in such a short time.

The City of Toronto just released the new Exploring Toronto Parks and Trails map which features up-to-date trails and pathways along with a directory of clubs and associations. You can download a copy of the map here or call 416-392-1111 ext.5 to get a copy sent to you in the mail. It's a useful resource for planning a day of biking, trikking, walking or hiking and provides insight into how the City's plans for linking biking, trikking and walking paths are coming together.

For your trikking needs, please look for the "Hard Surface Trails" in the legend. They'll provide the best trikkeable experience.

We also have stock of the map in our Toronto location, so if you're coming by, don't forget to ask for one.

Have you ever wanted to Trikke in a parade? We may be looking for volunteers to Trikke the Annual Strawberry Festival Parade in Stouffville on July 4th. The parade starts at 9:30am and will proceed east on Main Street to the Town Park. The route is from Albert Street and Main Street, along Main Street ending at Park Drive. The total distance is probably about 1km which is a very short distance, so you'll be able to move to the groove at a very reasonable pace.

All riders will need to be wearing a helmet. Please contact us if you're interested in riding during the parade. Once we get more details, we'll update you on the event.

One of our riders writes to us about their success with Trikkes and their recovery.

My name is Dave and I first found out about the Trikke product on the infomercials on early morning television. In my mid 50's I underwent an abdominal surgery that left me unable to work for almost one year and compromised my physical conditioning greatly. With absolutely no abdominal strength whatsoever while I was recovering; I worked quite closely with Physio and Physical Therapists to coach me along. As I laboured through this process I purchased a Trikke T-8 poly and shared the thought of using this amazing device in my recovery with the professionals. Much to my delight, I began to tone up and lose a little weight. In my own mind, I thought this new found way to get back into some kind of shape was in fact working!

After the first year went by, within 7 months I felt I was making progress albeit slowly. I could feel a difference but wasn't sure why. It could only be the diligence of the use of my Trikke that was making the difference! Very slowly at first and with a little frustration; the professionals encouraged me to continue with the use of the Trikke.

Now after another year I feel better having shed some 25 pounds, perked up my physical conditioning and continue to increase the level of activity with the use of such a wonderful device as the Trikke 8. Now I am looking to upgrade to a T-8 Air and use my other one for indoor use throughout the winter months.

Continued success and happy Trikking!

Regards, Dave

If you have a Trikke success story that you would like to share, please contact us.