Mobile Phone Holder and Sun Glasses Wrap

I was on the internet the other day looking at all thing cycling and I came across Beer Babe.  Julia at Beer Babe makes a range of products including useful cycling goodies from recycled means.  I decided to order a mobile phone holder for my iPhone and a wrap case for my cycling sun glasses.

When both arrived I was really chuffed with the quality.  The holders are made from used inner tubes, with reinforced Velcro closures. The real deal!

If you are in the market for similar goodies then give Beer Babe a look.

12 Weeks Post Op

At long last I have changed from the BIG armpit crutches to a smaller single elbow crutch.  It feels like freedom.  I am now partial load bearing and the leg brace has been set to 90 degrees.  Feels like liberation, but kinda funny.  My confidence had definitely been affected.   I know that this will take time.  I find myself being cautious when I am walking.

I have been doing the exercises that the Physiotherapist gave me.  I can know bend my knee to 100 degrees.  Under direction from the Physiotherapist I am taking these exercises easy.  My knee swells up quite a bit.  I tend to put regular ice compression (every 2 hours) on it with the Aircast Knee Cryo/Cuff.  This seems to reduce the swelling, which is great as it relieves the pain.

I am due at  Physiotherapist this Friday.  I look forward to these appointments as its a good laugh. I am due back at my Consultant on 12 June 2014.  So, I will see then how I am progressing.

81/2 Weeks Post Op

I visited my consultant at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary today.  He stated that I am progressing very well and that me knee seems to very strong.  It would appear at this stage as though the operation has been a success.

He also stated that I have to wear the fixed brace for another 2 weeks with it set at 0 degrees movement.  He then said that the over the next 4 weeks I should ask the physiotherapist at Forth Valley Royal Infirmary to initially set it to 45 degrees for 2 weeks and then to 90 degrees for a further 2/3 weeks.  At the same time the physiotherapist and myself can begin a programme of active physiotherapy.

He also stated that I should lose the Axillary crutches and start using Lofstrand crutches.  I have to go back to see my consultant on Thursday 12 June 2014.

All in all I was quite pleased with the outcome of the meeting with my consultant.  I think I am making progress, albiet, slow progress.  I am so looking forward to my next visit to my physiotherapist to see what we can do.  I hope that I can become more active in the physiotherapy class and that I can start to undertake active exercises on my own.

7 Weeks Post Op

It has been a while since I last posted on Buddha Belly Bikes (BBB).  Sorry for that.  I am also really sorry to go on about this, but this has been the most boring few weeks of my life.  Maybe, it's because I have not been posting on BBB.    I hope that you can imagine that I am stuck in the house with limited mobility.  Yes, I am still in the leg brace with 0% movement, non weight bearing and still with crutches.  It is driving me mad!  I know that I am not the best patient.  I have had a lot of visitors during the last few weeks.  I am very thankful.  But, still its still really boring.

My treats of the week are going to the hospital and also getting taken for a coffee (which I am very grateful for).  Last weekend, I was taken for a wee trip down to North Berwick to see the fat bikes at Forth Fat.  I would like to take part in Forth Fat next year.  Here's hoping that I can.

We also went to the newish coffee house called "Steampunk".  Lovely we place.  Loved the coffee.  Bought a pack of freshly roasted and ground expresso coffee to bring home.  I've used it up already.  Never mind, my old mate, Pete, is now living down in North Berwick, so I got in touch and ask him to bring me some more up to me the next time he is in this neck of the woods.

After the trip to North Berwick, my knee was pretty swollen and sore, so I sat all night with the Cyro Cuff on.  The Cuff has been a godsend for pain relief.  I wish I had known about it when I first came off my bike as it would have help no end.  I think the cuff will be my pal for sometime yet.

The weather seems to have improved the last few days.  I have been fantasising about getting out on my bike.  One of the things that I have been dreaming about is an overnighter in the Cairngorms.  At the moment it seems so far off.  Maybe, I will get there in August 2014.  Here's hoping.

3 Weeks & 6 Days Post Op

I went to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary the see my Consultant last Thursday.  He stated that he was pleased with the progress I have made since the op.  He was also amazed at the lack of bruising on my leg.  I was surprised by his comments as I felt as though it had been badly bruised, but he further stated that normally he would see bruising from the toe to the top of the thigh.  He was cautious about my recovery, so he directed me to remain in the fixed brace at 0% movement and no load bearing for a further 4 weeks.  He also stated that I should continue with passive physiotherapy for the 4 weeks.

I was a bit disappointed at the outcome of my appointment.  But, on reflection what could I expect.  I kinda thought that I would be in the brace for about 12 weeks.  It is the boredom that is doing my head in.  I will just have keep myself busy.

I went for physiotherapy class on Friday.  It was good.  I met a few people who I knew.  I like going to the class as I find it motivating.  I am the only PCL in the class, as all the rest are ACL's.  They are making quicker progress then I.  But, thats because the staff are very cautious about my PCL.  I fully understand why, but I can feel as though I am a slacker.

I am finding being houses bound rather challenging.  I have had visitors nearly every day.  Without this I would be struggling.  The visits just lift my spirits.  I have also joined various online biking "communities" which have also been great.  The amount of useful information has been a a godsend.

I'll keep you posted of my progress in a couple of days.

Post Op-Day 16

I have been to the physiotherapist yesterday (Wednesday).  I did  some more passive exercises.  It was nothing to heavy.  I have another session tomorrow afternoon when I attend the ACL/PCL class.  I have posted some pics below of my knee on Day 16 Post Op.

I am due to visit Mr Keating at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary next Thursday for my 3 week Post Op check up.  I am looking forward to it which seems a bit daft as who would want to visit their consultant.  But, for me it all part of my recovery.  I have been using frozen peas to ice my knee this has helped no end.  However, I decided this morning to order an Aircast Cuff  See pic below.



I saw this contraption on Sports Relief when Davina McCall was using it to reduce the swelling on her knee.  By all reports the Aircast Cuff seems to work well.  It is due to arrive next Wednesday, so I'll give you a full report then.

I am also thinking about buying another bike to add to my collection, but more about that next post.

Post Op- Day 7 & Day 10

My recovery has been progressing slowly in the last week.  The nurse has visited a couple of times to check my wounds and dressings.  She has been very happy with the as they seem very clean and uninfected.  She took my staples out on Day 10 (Friday).  This was okay, apart from the ones in my shin which were a bit uncomfortable to remove.

As you can see from the pics, my right leg/knee is badly bruised and swollen.  During the last week, the bruising has been pretty sore and whilst I have been lying down I have removed my fixed leg brace as it was getting uncomfortable to wear due to the bruising and swelling.

I was at the physiotherapist on Wednesday and on Friday.  We did passive movements on my knee which was not too bad at all.  On Friday, it was a physiotherapy class.  In the class, were 7 guys who had had their ACL reconstructed.  They were all 8-10 week post op.  It was great to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that after such as short time you can make really good progress.  I have something to aim for.  My knee felt a bit sore after each session, which is much to be expected.  I am due back on Wednesday, so we will see what we will get up to then.

Post Op-Day 2

I had a restless night last night.  I woke up every hour on the dot.  I don't know if the painkillers were agreeing with me.  I felt totally out my face.  Which in normal circumstances is okay, but I was hallucinating about all manner of things.

I am taking my painkillers religiously as if I don't I feel very uncomfortable..  This means that I am sleeping quite a bit, which I think is okay considering it just two days since I had the operation.

The nurse came into visit me in the afternoon and changed my dressings.  She said everything looked fine.  I was surprised at the length of the wounds as I thought that they would have been a lot smaller.  The staples holding the closed look very ugly.  The thought of getting them out makes me queezy.  I have put some pictures up of the visit.

A physiotherapist from Forth Valley Royal Hospital got in touch to arrange an appointment for me next Wednesday morning.  I am looking forward to meeting the physiotherapist as then I will know that I am fully on the road to recovery.

Post Op-Day 1

I had my PCL reconstruction done at the Royal in Edinburgh yesterday.  It was a really busy day that started with a 5.45an rise and a 1hour journey to the Royal.  Whilst on the journey, the Pentlands looked fantastic in the morning sunlight.  I hope to get out on my MTB soon and one of the first trails I will be doing will be up the Pentlands.  Heres hoping everything goes well and that my recovery is smooth.

I was operated on at about 9.00am and I was back on the ward at about 11.30am.  I was doped up to the eyes, so I cant remember that much about the next few hours.  The pain was not to bad.  My right knee was put in a fixed brace to limit any movement.  The brace felt weird, but I had to get used to it as I would be wearing it for up to 6 weeks.  The staff at the Royal were absolutely brilliant.  They could have done no more for me. 

At 4.00pm, I was seen by Mr Keating, the Consultant who did my operation.  He stated that it "was a text book operation" and that he was very pleased with how it had gone.  I was discharged at 5.00pm and was in the house at 6.30am.  More later.

The Pugsleys at North Berwick

Just before I had my accident last year, we took the Surly Pugsleys down to North Berwick to cycle them along the coast.  It turned out to be a special day, with fantastic scenery and superb weather.

We cycled along the beach at North Berwick and then a part of the John Muir Trail to Yellowcraigs where we paused to take in the beautiful views.  In the distance, we could see two other cyclist coming along the beach.  As they approached, we could see they were also riding fat bikes.  All 4 of us paused and looked at each other in disbelief.  We introduced ourselves and it turned out that one of the guys was none other than Bruce, the famous Coastkid blogger and fat bike rider.  The guys were just lovely and full of encouragement.

Our wonderful day was rounded off by a visit to The Clubhouse at Gullane.  The nachos, fish and chips and a beer were a mighty feast that was thoroughly enjoyed.

SealSkinz Men's Handle Bar Mittens

I have had a problem with my hands getting cold when I am on my bike, even with cycling gloves on, so I asked Santa to get me a pair of waterproof mittens for my bike.  Thankfully, he did and I unwrapped a present to find a pair of SealSinz Handle Bar Mittens.

SealSkinz Men's Handle Bar Mittens are design for cycling in the coldest and wettest conditions.  The design is like a ‘Lobster claw’ for dexterity and your fingers are grouped together to minimise heat loss. The mittens feature an absolutely waterproof and highly breathable membrane and Primaloft insulation which provides optimum protection against the cold!  In addition, they have gel padded palms and a highly reflective piping for better visibility! 

They will go perfectly under the Quad ATV Handlebar Mitts I have.

Handlebar Mitts for the Surly Pugsley

i had been looking for a pair of handlebar mitts for the Surly Pugsley.  If you have a look on line some of the handlebar  mitts can cost a wee bit of money.  I can across a pair of Quad ATV Mitts on Amazon and thought I would add them to my Xmas list.  The mitts were only £15.95, so worth punt.  Thankfully, Santa got them for me.  I must have been a good boy.

Above, is the stock picture on Amazon.  I have tried them on the Pugsley and they look good.  The mitts are fully insulated with a good lining and easily attach with hook and loop straps to the handlebars.  They are not water proof, but are water resistant.  With a pair of biking mitts they will keep my hands really toasty on a cold winding day.  I think that they are really good for money and I can't wait to try them on a ride.

My "Pre Op" Visit

I had my "pre op" visit to the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh.  I did not expect it to be so long.  They appeared to be really thorough with me and all the staff were really nice and helpful.  Thanks god for the NHS.  I am sure that I am in safe hands.

My operation is scheduled for the 4 March 2014.  It seems daft to say it, but I am not looking forward to it.  It goes without saying, that if I could avoid it, I would.  But, needs must.  I know that it will take an age to get back out on my bike.  The recovery will be the hardest bit.  I will need to be patient and not rush things,  This will be hardest bit for me as I am not a patient person.  I get bored really easy and need to doing this and that.

Even though I have not been out on my bike much during the last while, what with birthdays and Xmas I have been managing to gather some "bike" gear together in the hope that I will use when I have recovered from the op.  I will put up some posts about the gear in the future.

My Bike Collection

I have managed to gather together a few bikes since rekindling my interest in cycling.  I know have a Trek Soho S, Trek 6500, Trek Remedy 8 and a Surly Pugsley. 

I like the Trek Soho S for commuting about the town.  It is a low maintence easy ride.  The brakes can feel a bit spongy, but they do work.  Honest!  They just feel a little different.  I love the hub as it makes gear shifting so easy and the Gates carbon belt is so clean.  The bike has been a joy to ride.

The Trek Soho S

The Trek 6500 was first MTB that I got.  It has been a good bike to me.  The 6500 has a very solid feeling frame.  It is quite light for a bike like this.  It has great components for the price, with an XT rear derail and very solid Shimano brakes.  Trust me, I have needed them at times.  The gear shifting is very smooth, and I have found it very well balanced for everyday riding, however there is no doubt about it this bike is made for off road fun.

The Trek 6500


My favourite bike to date is my Remedy.  The Remedy feels as though it has been personally designed and built for me.  It is like it is my second skin.  This seems like and overstatemet, but I am not kidding.   Ive ridden all over.  On the MTB trails of Glentress, Laggan, Carron Valley and Callander Estates, the Remedy has handled so well.  The 6 inch travel on the front forks is absolutely superb.  I have had no worries about tackling any rough ground at speed.  I spent quite a while "tuning in" the rear suspension.  This was well worth a wee bit of effort as it has proved invalueable.  I cannnot give the Remedy enough praise.  To me, this bike is the best all round MTB that I have riden.  Simply wonderful.

The Trek Remedy 8


I got the Surly Pugsley as I was looking for another cycling advanture experience.  I had researched the Pugsley for a long while before I got one.  Unfortunately, due to my knee accident I have not ridden the Pugsley as much as I would have hoped.  However, in my opinon, the Pugsley offers the cyclist an experience that is unrivalled.  Whether cycling on trails with deep mud, meduim to large rocks, sand or snow the Pugsley offers so much fun.  I loved it when I took it to Tiree.  I provided me with a different perspective on cycling.  I am so looking forward to the latter part of this year when I can get back on the Pugsley and have fun.

The Surly Pugsley Necromancer that I have.  I also have the frame bag, although more on that in a later post.

Trip to Tiree

We went a fantastic trip to Tiree in July 2013.  It was a godsend that the ferry from Oban was fully booked for cars and would only take foot/bike passenger, as this made for a wonderful cycling holiday.  The 3 hour crossing to Tiree was lovely and relaxing.  I took the Surly Pugsley to use of the wonderful beaches of Tiree, whilst my partner took her Saracen.

I have posted some pictures of our trip below:



Tiree's machair-  The living landscape

Setting sun on Tiree

We stayed at Rockvale Guest House  whilst on Tiree and we ate at a variety of restaurants, including the Ceabar Restaurant and the Cobbled Cow.  Rockvale was an excellent base to explore Tiree and Alison made use feel very welcome.  I would recommend Rockvale to anyone visiting Tiree.

Pictures Of My Knee

As promised, here are some pics of my knee after the accident.  They were taken a couple of weeks (May 2013) after I tumbled off my Trek Remedy 8 .

My knee continues to be swollen and "unstable".  If I don't concentrate when walking. my knee can give way and I can fall.  It can be quite embarrassing.  The accident has limited my cycling, however I did manage a trip on my Surly Pugsley to Tiree in July 2013.  I will post some pictures of this trip soon.

My First Post on Buddha Belly Bikes

This is my first post on Buddha Belly Bikes.  I have written a few blogs in the past, but I lost interest in them for a few years.  Buddha Belly Bikes is my rekindled interest in blogging and my way of sharing my interest in cycling.

A lot of water has passed under the bridge since I last wrote on a blog.  Namely, I had a stroke 3 years ago, which knocked the stuffing out of me.  It has taken me a good while to get back on my feet and for me to feel as though I had a meaningful contribution to make at home and at work.  I have my bad days when I am really tired, my confidence is low and I get somewhat anxious.  But, on the whole I think that I am doing well.  I recognise that mentally I will never be like I was before the stroke.  However, I am trying to make the best of how I am now.  That's all I can do.

Cycling certainly has helped me.  I love it.  Whether mountain biking, going on a road trip or commuting to work.  Cycling has given me a new lease of life.  I have had some much fun during the last 2 years since taking cycling up.  It has been amazing for me.

That was until May 2013, when I came tumbling off my bike and badly damaged my knee.  I will upload some pictures of my knee so you can see what the damage looked like.  Anyway, after much toing and froing from hospital it seems as though Accident and Emergency missed that I had ruptured my PCL and badly torn my ACL in my right knee during the accident.  I am due to have both ligaments reconstructed in March 2014.  Obviously, this has meant that I have had to limit my cycling as my knee gives me problems.   So, at the present time I am a frustrated cyclist who is dreaming of the summer when I will be able to get out on my bike and have fun.