By KATHY STUTZMAN
WCPL Public Relations Manager

When was the last time you visited Warsaw Library’s magazine section? If recently, you probably found some surprises. Warsaw Community Public Library has magazines for motorcyclist, bicyclists, four-wheeler enthusiasts, kayakers, dirt bike riders, and backpackers which are guaranteed to help make your summer or fall more fun.

Do you feel a “deep connection with the road” as motorcyclists say? Does biking run in your veins? If so, your motorcycle is already out of storage and you’re making plans for a trip. The latest issue of Cycle World will make your summer unforgettable as it covers adventure bikes for traveling and visiting new places. If you’re more into the thrill of off-the-road terrain riding, dodging tree roots and rocks, you’ll find suggestions for that also.

Perhaps, you are more comfortable on bikes where YOU are the source of horsepower. When my grandchildren visit from out of state, the local bike trails are at the top of our to-do list.  Memories have been created from those trails–from 5 year-old Benjamin falling off the side of the wood-planked Beyer trail and landing in the wet marsh grasses to my oldest grandson, Nathan, experiencing the thrills, chills, and spills of riding the trails near Winona Lake.

From mountain bikes to 10-speeds, the Bicycling magazine is a great source for casual or competitive riders. Filled with cycling and mountain biking tips to training articles and bike maintenance how-tos, it’s helpful for cyclists of all levels. Having been on bike rides shortened by chains falling off, I found the cheat sheet on bicycle repairs to be very helpful.

If you’re more into competitive racing, you’ll find the provided list of nationwide races fascinating.  From rest stops offering shucked corn and pickles to races featuring pedaling pirates and skeletons, you’re bound to find the “perfect” race to enter. Check out some of the how-tos.

While I’m not a serious backpacker, the Backpacker magazine offered some valuable information that even I could use. It was full of tips that any level of hiker would benefit from. I liked the fact that they covered a variety of hikes from short local hikes that included one in Chicago as well as longer epic hikes in mountainous regions. My eyes were opened up to coastal hiking, which I never heard of until reading this magazine, with the article listing the dangers of underwater drop-offs, surge channels, and more.

It was interesting to read about ultralight packs and I found myself attempting to discover if any of these packs were being used by any Amazing Race participants. I’m thinking seriously of doing more hiking since reading this issue and you probably will also.

Fans of four-wheelers will be impressed with the Four Wheeler magazine. Front to back, it is filled with tech and how-to articles. The articles are exhaustive and if I were a man and looking to buy a truck anytime soon or fix one I already had, I would be making it a point to read these type of articles on a regular basis. The Backward Glances column is a fascinating read as it covers the history and transformation of a 1957 touring Jeep back to its factory glory. This magazine is a definite must-read for anyone serious about four wheeling.

Chances are you know someone who has a passion for motorcross sports and participates in dirt biking. Dirt Rider is the perfect companion with its informative articles and course reviews. As a casual observer, I really appreciated the article that shared the meanings of confusing catch phrases used in this sport. In an equipment review, I discovered that some helmets have cheek pad inflation systems that inflate small bags under a chin and ear. Who wudda thunk? For some summer thrills, check out some of the courses reviewed in the magazine.

The last time I was in a canoe my grandsons, Nathan and Benjamin, were with me as my husband, Mike, and I paddled around Winona Lake. It was their first time to ride in one. Initially fearful because of the incessant rocking of the canoe, they eventually lost their fears and enjoyed the ride. Now, they are ready to do it again. Whether you are an expert canoer or just interested in a leisurely glide along a gentle lake, you’ll enjoy Canoe & Kayak magazine.

Discover competitive canoe poling (think Italian gondoliers in a race). Be inspired by the story of Don Starkell who paddled 75,000 miles in his lifetime facing danger many times. Filled with adventurous stories of trips taken by canoe or kayak, the magazine draws you in placing a desire to explore inside you. Be prepared to have your eyes opened to adventure and start planning your own for this summer.

Imagine what you could accomplish this summer with just a few of the ideas in these magazines!  There are endless possibilities on how to spend your time.  From light hiking to mud pits and more!

Rediscover your library! Visit us in person, at www.warsawlibrary.org, our Facebook page for the latest news and updates, and our Pinterest account for even more ideas.