James Raia
As a 30-year veteran journalist, I contribute sports, travel, business and lifestyle articles to myriad print and online publications. For more articles, visit my web site: ByJamesRaia.com
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Thirty-year journalist, 10 years on daily newspapers, 20 years as a freelancer. I contribute to the Sacramento Bee, Miami Herald, Associated Press, Golf Magazine, among many others.Motto
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Displaying Results 1 - 118 (of 118) for Yahoo! Voices
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Honda Fit, 2008: The Weekly DriverThe subcompact Honda Fity is in its second year in the United States and eighth worldwide since its debut in 2001 in Asia. By either name, Honda's entry-level vehicle in 2008 is much the same as it was last year - and that's a good thing.
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Suzuki SX4, 2008: The Weekly DriverMy weekly driver was the Suzukie SX4 sedan, new for 2008. It adds another few options to the now 14 available SX4 configurations, including the country's least expensive all-wheel drive car.
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Ford Edge, 2008: The Weekly DriverA friend took a good, long look at the interior and exterior of the new Ford Edge, chuckled and said, "Well, for a Ford it's pretty edgy." True enough. With the 2008 Edge, the often conservative Ford has extended the definition of the term "crossover." -
Saab 9-3, 2008: The Weekly DriverBeginning its second half-century, Saab remains an attractive niche choice for car buyers seeking alternatives to popular Germany and Japanese offerings. With the 2008 9-3, the Swedish manufacturer deserves to further improve its positioning in the entry level luxury market. -
Ford Escape, 2008 ReviewFord debuted a smaller, less expensive alternative to The Explorer, its vastly popular sports utility vehicle, in 2001. In North America, it was called The Escape and in Europe it was called The Maverick.
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Mazda RX-8, 2008: The Weekly DriverSports cars are rarely known for comfort or convenience. But Mazda does a good job of overcoming the stigma with the RX-8. It's a coupe with four doors (sort of) and it's about as comfortable as sports cars get. -
Honda Accord, 2008: Bigger, Badder & BetterAs one of the country's most successful vehicles, Honda needs little help with the Accord. But for 2008, the Accord was redesigned and it's a prime of example taking a vehicle that's already an industry leader and making it better.
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Five Cool Hybrids to Consider in 2008The Toyota Prius remains at the forefront of the hybrid industry, accounting for about half of 350,000 hybrids sold in the United States in 2007. But many manufacturers have new options and there many other hybrids pending. -
Cadillac CTS, 2008: The Weekly DriverA mid-size entry level luxury car, the Cadillac CTS was introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the Cimarron. Five years, later it's become the manufacturer's first success story in recent market campaign to sell vehicles to younger buyers. -
Saturn View, 2008: The Weekly DriverAs the oldest and best-selling vehicle in the Saturn stable, the Vue has found a solid, well-deserved niche in the compact Sport Utility Market. But Saturn couldn't leave well enough alone. -
Honda Element, 2008: The Weekly DriverThe Element was resigned in 2007 and the 2008 version remains largely unchanged. My test drive is the SC, one of four available models. It's available only with a six-speed manual transmission and only with front-wheel drive. -
Honda Civic (Hybrid), 2008: The Weekly DriverThe 2008 edition continues the second generation of the Honda Civic hybrid, which was introduced in 2006 and has maintained a strong share in the ever-expanding hybrid market. -
Carmel Lodge Offers Renovated Accommodations in Quaint City-By-The SeaCarmel is not an inexpensive destination, but one location that provides covers a good cross-section of accommodations needs is Carmel Lodge. -
Jeep Compass, 2007: The Weekly DriverAfter examining the 2007 Jeep Compass inside and outside for several minutes, a good friend made an astute comment. "I like the exterior; it has a European look," he said. "But the interior looks like it's still from 20 years ago." -
Subaru Outback, 2008: The Weekly DriverWith its 2008 models, Subaru begins its second decade of offering only all-wheel drive as a standard feature throughout its line - Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback and Tribeca. -
Nissan Altima, 2008: The Weekly DriverNissan redesigned the Altima sedan last year and it received a good share of praise from buyers who liked its new sportier approach and improved comfort. With the 2008 Altima coupe, the improvements continue with more design changes. -
Mercury Mariner 2008: The Weekly DriverI recently drove the 2008 Mercury Mariner Premier with all-wheel drive nearly 1,000 miles in eight days. While crossing the state on primarily high-speed highways, the Mariner performed well under nearly ideal late summer conditions. -
As Fall Arrives, Marathons are AboundHot weather will soon wane in favor of morning chill. Reflective gear will soon be the norm on training runs, Polypropylene and layers of attire will soon replace singlets. And that means fall marathons. -
Steve McQueen's Ferrari Set for Auction in Weeklong Monterey Peninsula Automotive ExtravaganzaPebble Beach Golf Links to Spyglass Hill, golf still rules on the famed Monterey Peninsula. But automotive enthusiasts will have a dozen good reasons to disagree next week. -
Tour De France Entourage Prepares to Race in the Inaugural Tour of MissouriAbout seven weeks after the conclusion of the controversial 2007 Tour de France, American Levi Leipheimer will lead a large entourage of cycling's finest riders in the inaugural Tour of Missouri. -
The Tour De France Ends: 2,200 Miles Forward, One Giant Step Backwards for CyclingThe 94th Tour de France began July 7 in London without a defending titlist and with hopes of a new, successful chapter in its desire to fight doping. It ended 23 days later after superior cycling, a surprise winner and a fourth American reaching the podium. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 20: The End is Here with an AsteriskNo city is more closely connected to the Tour de France than Paris. Between stage departures and finishes, the country's most renowned city has been part of the world's most renowned cycling event more than 130 times. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 19 Preview: The Last Race of Truth (How Ironic!)With the scandal and ugliness currently defused, the business of competition is back in focus at the Tour de France. As such, this year's race winner will likely be determined in Saturday's 19th stage individual time trial. -
Third Tour of California Announced in Wake of Tour De France ScandalsProfessional bicycle racing's most prestigious event could be on the verge of implosion. But for the third straight year, the Tour of California will return next February and will feature many of the same riders and teams in the embattled Tour de France. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 18 Preview: Paris is on the Horizon, Thank GoodnessThere are three riding days to Paris and the end of the 2007 Tour de France. And it's a safe assumption, the peloton can't wait. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 17 Preview: Welcome to Pau, the Tour is ImplodingThe 2007 Tour de France is imploding. The teams sponsored by Astana and Cofidis, based on the positive drug tests of one rider from each squad, have withdrawn. And race leader Michael Rasmussen (Rabonbank) of Denmark has been booted out of the race.
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Tour De France, 2007, Stage 16 Preview: The Final Mountains on the HorizonWednesday's stage 16 of the Tour de France will likely unfold dramatically as the last mountain stage of the 2007 event. Riders will pedal 218.5 kilometers (135.7 miles) from Orthez-Courette to Col d'Aubisque.
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Tour De France, 2007, Rest Day 2: Remembering Cycling's PioneersLong before the Tour began in 1903, track cycling was all the rage on velodromes (banked tracks). The sport thrived in Europe and in the United States. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 15: All Hail to the Queen StageSixteen days into the 2007 Tour de France, the weary riders will encounter Monday what is known in cycling parlance as the "Queen Stage" in stage 15. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 14 Preview: Welcome to the PyreneesWelcome to the Pyrenees. Let the winner of the 2007 Tour de France step forward. The 14th stage Sunday will take the peloton 197 kilometers (122.3 miles) from Mazamet to Plateau de Beille, and it will mark the first of the race's three demanding mountain stages -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 13 Preview: The First Race of TruthIt's been two weeks since Tour de France cyclists last challenged a time trial - and that, of course, was the July 7 prologue in London. It was opening day and a less than 10-minute ride to determine who wore the race leader's yellow jersey for stage 1. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 12 Preview: Say Goodbye to the MediterraneanThe second and last transitional road stage between the Alps and the Pyrenees occurs Friday in the Tour de France with riders set for another hot day primarily along the southern coast and a late-day deviation inland. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 11 Preview: Sprinters Return to the SpotlightIt's been five stages since sprinters were in the spotlight at the Tour de France. But the speed merchants should be back at the front of the peloton again Thursday in one of the race's flatest stages. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 10 Preview: Pedaling Toward the Mediterranean SeaAfter three straight mountain stages in the Alps, the Tour de France now heads toward the southern tip of France where warm weather and inviting blue water of the Mediterranean Sea await. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 9 Preview: Climbing into Thin Air & BeyondNo two words are more revered in the Tour de France than "hors categorie." The French-to-English translation is "Above Category," and the term is reserved for the race's most strenuous climbs. -
Who Are the Teams in the Tour De France?Athletes from a few dozen countries compete in the Tour de France each year. And just like NASCAR drivers, they compete for sponsors and not for their respective home countries. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 8 Preview: Another Tough Day in the AlpsThe second of six Alpine stages and the second straight day in the Alps greet the ever-weary peloton Sunday in the eighth stage of the 2007 Tour de France. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 7 Preview: Bastille Day Celebration in the AlpsFor the dozen or so riders with overall title aspirations, the Tour de France begins Saturday on Bastille Day with the first of three consecutive days of mountain stages in the Alps. -
Lanterne Rouge (Red Lantern): The Honor of Finishing Last in the Tour De FranceNothing demonstrates the underdog role of some riders in the Tour de France more than the tradition of the lanterne rouge or red lantern. It's the honor given to the rider who finishes last. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 6 Preview: The Alps Are on the HorizonWith the completion of Friday's sixth stage from Semur-en-Auxois to Bourg-en-Bresse, riders in the Tour de France will have completed 740 miles in one week and the serious nature of cycling's pinnacle event will be about to unfold. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 5 Preview: Let the Tour BeginWith all due respect to sprinters and the wondrous ways of the first five racing days, let the Tour de France begin. The race's most decisive day to date will occur Thursday when the field negotiates 182.5 kilometers (113.3 miles) from Chablis to Autun. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 4 Preview: Bring on the Wine CountryFor the fourth straight day, it should be sprinters who again get to showcase their powerful legs Wednesday in the fourth stage of the Tour de France. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 3 Preview: The Longest Day in the SaddlePerhaps with some rare exceptions in the pre-World War I years, the longest stage of the Tour de France is never the most difficult. Still, the designation holds some status and it will occur early in the Tour this year, stage 3 on Tuesday. -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 2 Preview: So Long, England; Hello BelgiumOne sub-plot that develops early every year at the Tour de France is whether one sprinter can dominate the race. Australian powerhouse Robbie McEwen (Predictor-Lotto) won stage 1 on Sunday. But can he repeat? -
Tour De France, 2007, Stage 1: Sprinters Ready to MotorIf it's 11 a.m. Sunday in London, it's stage 1 of the 2007 Tour de France, and the race's best sprinters are happy and ready.
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London Makes Its Tour De France Grand Depart Debut SaturdayEngland been infrequently visited by the Tour de France, but London's ready for race's grand departure. -
The Greatest Cyclists in Tour De France History, Part 1 (Jacques Anquetil to Bernard Hinault)Tour de France champions all have different styles. But through the race's more than 100-year history, the best have also all been the same in some respects. They've all had great individual skills and a focused desire to win. -
The Greatest Cyclists in Tour De France History, Part 2A look at Miguel Indurain, Greg LeMond, Eddy Merckx, Jan Ullrich and Joop Zoetemelk. -
How to Watch & Understand the Tour De FranceThe Tour de France is the world's largest free sporting event. Spectators can watch every stage in person and along the entire route, this year from London (July 7) to Paris (July 29) without admission. -
Greatest Mountains of the Tour De FranceGreat climbers usually win the Tour de France. Dozens of famous and infamous peaks have been used during stages and as finishing summits. -
Six U.S. Cyclists Set for Unique 2007 Tour De FranceThe 2007 Tour de France, cycling's yearly pinnacle event, begins Saturday, July 7 in London, and it will be unique for three reasons, not the least of which is that it will not feature a defending titlist. -
Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run: The Best Free Show in Sports?What a concept. There's no admission, no parking charges, no assigned seating and no parimutuel betting. But for anyone who wishes to watch fine endurance athletes the Western States 100 offers a great outdoor arena. -
Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sustainable Food Conference Embraces OrganicsSustainable food and organics are the focus of the Monterey Bay Aquarium's annual sustainable food conference and seafood watch program. -
Tally Ho Inn: English Charm with a Modern Twist in Carmel-By-The-SeaThe unassuming Tally Ho Inn is among the most convenient, well-appointed, historic and quaint accommodation options in Carmel, California. -
Martine Inn Historic Bed & Breakfast: Old & New Elegance in Pacific Grove, CaliforniaWith the Pacific Ocean as an omnipresent backdrop, the Martine Inn and its more than 100-year-old legacy provide an ideal location to experience the old and new of the Monterey Peninsula. -
Honda CR-V, 2007: The Weekly DriverThere wasn't much to complain about with the previous Honda CR-V. It provided a keen balance of versatility, comfort and utility vehicle refinement. But with the 2007 redesign, Honda has taken something good and made it better. -
Suzuki Grand Vitara, 2007: The Weekly DriverThe 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara, the Japanese-manufactured compact SUV, is a surprisingly impressive vehicle. From its comfort, smooth ride, interior and exterior refinement and long list of standard features, the Grand Vitara matches well against any many competitors. -
Honda Fit, 2007: The Weekly DriverJust when it seemed like Honda couldn't possibly discover another market segment for its vehicles, it introduced the 2007 Fit. A four-door subcompact, the Fit combines a wondrously efficient use of space with snappy versatility and economy. -
Cadillac SRX, 2007: The Weekly DriverThe 2007 Cadillac SRX 4-door wagon is listed in the premium midsize SUV category, and it offers an attractive combination of luxury, performance and styling. -
Saturn Sky (Redline), 2007: The Weekly DriverIf there's one sure thing about the Saturn Sky, it's the new sports car's attention-grabbing appearance. Passersby stopped me at traffic signals. Restaurant patrons came to my table. Neighbors wanted to know about the car. -
Audi A4, 2007: The Weekly DriverThe A4 is Audi's top-selling line and it's available in three different models and nearly 20 configurations in sedans, wagons and convertibles. -
Lincoln MDX, 2007: The Weekly DriverIt's not often a car gets renamed after only one year on the market. But that's exactly what happened to the Lincoln Zephyr. It debuted in 2006 as a entry level luxury sedan and now it's gone. In its place is the MDX. -
New Car Gadgetry: I Want My XM Radio and OnStarTwo items standout among as the best of the worthwhile technology wonderment. I think every car would be better if it featured satellite radio and a voice-command navigation system. -
Mazda CX-7, 2007: The Weekly DriverBeyond its omnipresent "Zoom-Zoom" television commercial jingle, Mazda has a new motto: "The SUV you never saw coming." It's a trademarked slogan, but it just didn't fit with my weekly driver, a 2007 Mazda CX-7. -
Five Cool Convertibles for Summer '07Driving a nicely performing convertible with the top down on a sun-baked summer day is about as good as it gets for driving enthusiasts. But there's more to convertibles than wind-whipped hair and the open road. -
Floyd Landis: Tragedy, Turmoil & the Tour De FranceSince Floyd Landis became the third American to claim cycling's most coveted title nearly 10 months ago, his life has been nothing less than catastrophic. -
Tradewinds Inn: An Oasis with an Asian Influence in Carmel, CaliforniaThrough the years Carmel establishments like Tradewinds Inn, have enticed a loyal following by offering a simple but important formula: quality rooms and service, plentiful parking and serenity. -
Michael Jordan: Still Competitive After All These YearsSeveral years after his retirement, Michael Jordan remains as competitive off the court as he once was in the National Basketball Association
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Comedian Tom Dreesen: Golf's Global AmbassadorRaised in poverty, comedian Tom Dreesen as used golf as a metaphor for his success in life.
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Drug Testing on the PGA Tour? It's No GimmeThe feasibility of the PGA Tour testing its players for performance-enhancing drugs is not new. But the topic has recently come into sharper focus.
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Tips for Running and Enjoying the MarathonNo two marathons are the same, but if you follow basic guidelines, the experience can be rewarding.
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Actor Chris O'Donnell: Father, Actor & Lifelong GolferChris O'Donnell is one of the stars of the television show Grey's Anatomy, and many years after later he's still often recognized as Robin from the movie Batman. But O'Donnell is also a husband, father, devoted family man, and he has a nearly lifelong passion for golf.
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Bill Murray & Scott Simpson: Marriage on the Golf CourseScott Simpson, the 1987 U.S. Open winner, and Bill Murray, the actor/comedian and star the now legendary golf 1980 movie Caddyshack, have been playing partners during since 1993.
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Running a Marathon: It's Not All About PainThe accomplishment of putting one foot in front of the other for 26.2 miles, or a marathon, can be exhilarating and satisfying, and it's still the global standard for cardiovascular accomplishment.
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Kia Sportage, 2007: The Weekly DriveThe Sportage is among Kia's most popular models and it's largely remained unchanged since its second generation debuted in 2005. Among several changes for the SUV then was the transition from a truck to car platform.
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An Interview with Cyclist Tyler HamiltonFor the first time since the end of his two-year doping suspension, reigning Olympic time trial gold medalist Tyler Hamilton, 36, is competing again in the United States. He riding for the Italian/Russian Tinkoff Credit Systems squad and competing in the Tour de Georgia. -
Subaru Outback Wagon, 2007: The Weekly DriverSince it debuted in limited release in 1995, the Outback, with its slightly raised suspension, has complemented the Legacy wagon. Fast-forward to 2007 and the Legacy and Outback wagons are now offered in three engine sizes. -
Sacramento Restaurant Review: LuccaLucca, the nearly four-year old restaurant located across the street from Memorial Auditorium, would be an ideal choice for such occasions if the university still used Memorial Auditorium for sporting events. -
Restaurant Review, Sacramento: Centro Cocina MexicanaIt seems only a few years ago when Centro Cocina Mexicana, then the newest of the Paragary Group restaurants, opened. It had massive windows, a new approach with its museum-like decor, and the lines were long. But it's now more than 12 years old. -
Review of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, 2007Now in its ninth edition and commonly called Evo9, the Evolution is the most expensive of four Lancers available. And the MR edition, my weekly driver, is the most expensive of three Evolution editions. -
Review of the Subaru Legacy 2007Anyone who's driven a Subaru knows the manufacturer's all-wheel drive system is an industry leader. In automotive parlance, it's the only system that combines a horizontally opposed engine with a symmetrically arranged AWD system. -
Review of Ford Escape Hybrid 2007Introduced in 2004, the Escape hybrid complemented Ford's already popular compact sport utility vehicle line. The Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner are remarkably similar SUVs, with the Mariner also available in a hybrid model. -
Review of Hyundai Elantra, 2007Despite its less-than-stellar reputation, however, the Grapevine is also an ideal place to test drive a car, as I did recently with my weekly driver, the 2007 Hyundai Elantra. -
2007 Saab 9-3 Aero: Sweden's New Entry Level Luxury CarIt's called a premium compact by some consumer advocacy publications and an entry level luxury sedan by other industry experts. By any name, the newly designed Saab 9-3 confidently joins an increasingly visible vehicle segment. -
Honda Ridgeline, 2007: The Weekly DriverIntroduced at car shows in 2005 and first made available nationwide as a 2006 model, the 2007 Ridgeline could, be categorized as the anti-pickup truck. -
Saturn Aura, 2007: The Weekly DriverSaturn didn't fare well with its midsize L-Series, which was discontinued in 2004. But the General Motors division is trying again with the 2007 Aura. -
Cadillac Escalade, 2007: The Weekly DriverOnce a status symbol for affluent older drivers, the Escalade is now a Cadillac status symbol for an appreciably younger yet equally affluent buying group. -
Five Cool Convertibles for Summer '07Ragtop or hardtop, convertibles are increasingly popular. There's new innovation and increased competition among U.S. and foreign manufacturers. And that means more choices for consumers. In fact, nearly 50 new-model convertibles are now available in the United States. -
Acura RDX, 2007: The Weekly DriverAcura has entered crossover SUV market with its 2007 RDX. It features all-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine, an impressive array of features and an automotive oxymoron. It's a compact SUV that with its various "bells and whistles" options can exceed more than $37,000. -
Freelancers' Motto: Keep Writing and the Mailman Will DeliverThe most important concept to grasp as a freelancer is the uncertainty of the occupation. A freelancer must understand and accept that he or she really never knows when paychecks will arrive.
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Freelancers' Creed: Multiple Sales the Key to SuccessA competent writer with great marketing skills will have greater financial freelance success than a very skilled writer who has no marketing savvy.
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Good Business Tactics Means Success for Freelance WritersAnyone considering an independent writing career should quickly understand one paramount concept: Maintaining an organized business is as important, if not more important, than writing. It will lead to more assignments, more income and plenty of perks.
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Honda Element 2005: The Weekly DriverThree years into its legacy, the Honda Element is still getting its share of unusual stares and snide comments. It's been called a toaster, a pumpkin and a box on wheels. And then there are those who don't like the vehicle. -
Acura RSX 2005: The Weekly DriverAs the entry level Acura, the RSX is a compact coupe that complements the often highly recommended manufacturer's varied other offerings. -
2006 Audi 3: The Weekly DriverAfter a recent month of traveling in France, Germany and Spain, the habits of European drivers can be succinctly explained. They're skilled, they drive fast and they're often required to maneuver and park on small city streets. Audis are everywhere. -
Sacramento's Museum of Medical History: Not-So-Modern MedicineCalifornia's oldest medical association, SSVMA is located in a nondescript office complex at 5380 Elvas Ave. in Sacramento. The side of building faces the street, further hiding its identity to casual passersby.
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Mercedes Benz E350 2006: The Weekly DriverA review of the 2006 Mercedes Benz E350sedan
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Ford Escape SUV Hybrid 2005: The Weekly DriverThe 2005 Ford Escape is the fourth addition to manufacturer's SUV line, the first hybrid in the class and it makes an impressive debut.
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Honda S2000 2005: The Weekly DriverThe 30-mile stretch from Willits to Ft. Bragg along Highway 20 in Northern California is an ideal place to drive a sports car. The two-lane road offers tight switchbacks, flat stretches and many climbs and descents. It's even better in a Honda S2000
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A Few Memorable Miles in BelfastEarly morning training runs don't work for some runners. The mind, body and spirit aren't in sync. As has happened on other trips to far-away lands, it was an hour before dawn in Belfast, Northern Ireland and I could stare at the hotel room walls.
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Honda Civic is Still a Best-Buy Economy CarThere's little argument the Honda Civic's popularity isn't warranted. Honda has capitalized on the compact car's success with the notable options of a gas/electric hybrid and two-door hatchback. But does Honda really need another option in the Civic line? -
Time Is Precious: Vintage Watches Are All The RageWilliam Thoma is a housepainter who daily wears a watch so marked with paint stains, he can't see the dial. But Thomas also know fine timepieces and has does what a lot of other wristwatch enthusiast do. Whe he saw the watch he wanted - he bought it.
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Suzuki XL-7 SUV 2005: The Weekly DriverThe New Suzuki XL-7 SUV offers a good price point, but it's underpowered and will have a hard time finding a market share against more well-known offerings in its class. -
Cyclist Berge Prepares For Solo, But Not Alone U.S. TrekAnna Catharina "Cat" Berge excels at the far reaches of endurance. She can ride a bicycle from sunrise to sundown and then do it again at will - with a surprising competitive twist. Now, she's preparing to ride across the country.
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Yosemite: Running In ParadiseFor outdoor enthusiasts, Yosemite National Park and the surrounding wilderness areas provide near-limitless recreation options. But it's unlikely runners immediately think of the locale for their long-distance pursuits.
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What Makes A Good Marathon?In the summer's hot days, many marathon runners begin preparations for fall marathons, the most popular time of the yearfor the 26.2-mile distance. But just as there are mnay race options, so too are there marathons of diverse quality and reputation.
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The Big Three: Poison Oak, Ivy and SumacA leisurely day hike, a challenging trail run or a weekend camping trip can provide great relaxation, help maintain fitness and reduce stress. But pursuing the wonders of nature can also have drawbacks.
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Drink Up With Hydration PacksHydration packs offer a good, efficient alternative to carrying water bottles for athletes who need to replenish liquids while on the go.
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Walking: It's Good For RunnersSeveral years ago, Dr. Ann Gerhardt suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in an alpine skiing accident. An accomplished long-distance runner, cyclist and kayaker, the Sacramento physician began to walk as part of her lengthy rehabilitation.
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Suzuki Forenza Wagon 2005: The Weekly DriverAs an entry level wagon, the 2005 Suzuki Forenza offers budget-minded buyers a spacious wagon with a good supply of standard features. But as a debut vehicle, it's also unproven in the resale market and has shortcomings that ideally define its position in
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Mitsubishi Outlander 2005: The Weekly DriverThe 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander is the least expensive of the Japanese manufacturer's three sports utility vehicles. It's compact, nicely designed and offers more standard features than many SUVs nearly twice the price.
But the Outlander faces a tough cha
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Honda Accord Coupe: The Weekly DriverJust inside the guard gate, the world renowned 17-Mile Drive in Carmel, Calif., begins with primarily downhill and often winding two-lane road to Pebble Beach Golf Links. The tree-line route features lavish, oceanfront homes and a predominately forest-lik
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New Cycling Trend: Know When To Fold 'emLike tandems and recumbents, folding bicycles provide an unique alternative for cyclists concerned about space, portability and convenience.
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Chevrolet Trailblazer 2005: The Weekly DriverWith the addition of the 5.3-liter, 325-horsepower V8 extended cab (EXT), eight Chevrolet Trailblazer models are on the road in 2005. And as the largest and most powerful Blazer available, the new EXT has plenty to offer. -
Honda Accord 2005: The Weekly DriverThe Honda Accord is arguably the most reliable, well-respected vehicle on the road today. It's not the most luxurious or the fastest car. It doesn't have luxury car status or solicit overt double-takes from passersby.But what it does is have is plenty of
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Acura TL 2005: The Weekly DriverThis Vehicle was successful for several years, but Acura redesigned it and added more features in 2004 to offer BMW and Audi drivers another choice for a luxury sports sedan that combines performance with value. -
Honda CR-V 2005With remarkable ease, my wife reconfigured the back seat arrangement of the new-look and more spacious 2005 Honda CR-V, and the cargo area opened into a flat and cavernous compartment. The bench is five-feet long, but with a little twist here and a turn t
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Honda Pilot 2005: The Weekly DriverLike its popular brethren, the CR-V, Odyssey and new Element, the Pilot completes Honda's best-buy SUV and van line. And like any of those offerings or anything else in Honda's arsenal, it's hard to find serious fault with the Pilot.


