On our travels around the last of the Great Lakes (Lake Huron), we came to Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada. We found a cyclist’s dream: the Manitoulin Passage. The beauty of the island was amazing, and the types of bikes were downright crazy. E-bikes have helped seniors ride well into their golden years; we even heard of a 96-year-old gentleman who just bought a new e-bike. Mark at Active Bike in Appleton said his sales are closing in on a 50/50 split between e-bikes and conventional bikes. When I first rode an electric bike, I thought it was cheating, but today I am a believer.
It allows me to explore miles of new roads and trails. I try not to use the motor assistance as much as possible, but when big hills and strong winds make the ride seem impossible, it is remarkable how much more enjoyable the experience becomes. We heard many times that buying a bike from a local bike shop will save you from many problems, and having their hands-on service is so much better than purchasing from big-box stores. If you are looking forward to an active and healthy retirement, we highly suggest you look into getting an e-bike.
Taking the car ferry from the islands to lower Ontario and driving down to Michigan made for a leisurely trip with some amazing beaches. Wasaga Beach holds the title of the longest freshwater beach in the world at almost 14 kilometers (9 miles) long, and it was so well kept that it was spotless. Driving to Ludington, Michigan, to take the SS Badger ferry to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, was a great way to wind down from the trip, complete with a final stop at the Waverly Bar in Manitowoc, where the pizza is the closest you can get to Frank & Pat’s Pizza.
Caution: If you want a case of beer in Canada, it can cost you $60.00. God Bless America! — THE TRAVELING MAN
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