Colombian Outback becoming Safer For Cyclists(Pedal types)

EL AMOLADERO, Colombia -- Curtained in mist, these Andean slopes used to hide rebel secrets. Kidnapping victims shivered in caves. Guerrilla bands slipped through strategic corridors.

So today, when Cpl. Jaime Echavarria sees foreign cyclists swing into his military checkpoint on a remote mountain pass, it's a welcome change of traffic.

``We've taken pictures with tourists,'' said Echavarria brightly, a rifle slung over his back. ``Five years ago it was complicated, but there's a lot of security now.''

Civil conflict still simmers in regions of Colombia. But a ramped-up military presence, especially on roads and highways, has made it safe to travel in many areas that used to be off-limits.

That's good news for cycling enthusiasts, who can now wheel through the river valleys and colonial villages that skirt the capital city of Bogotá -- a region of poncho-clad farmers, adobe huts, seats made from plastic beer crates and the occasional gargantuan climb.

Not by accident, the region has produced some of Colombia's most scrappy and successful cyclists.

``This geography was made for biking,'' said Juan Jose Rico, 29, leaning against his mountain bike. ``We have all this natural beauty, and we still haven't figured out how to show it to others.''

http://www.miamiherald.com/579/story/1211475.html

By miamimike on Aug 31, 2009, 20:32 in Friendly Talkzone.

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