What Is This? 😮
“What is this?!” was the startled thought that went through my mind at one moment during yesterday’s ride. Life may be a beautiful ride; but it can spring surprises on you; the kind of things that make you ask, WHAT is this?
This moment came as I was starting up again after a stop. I was in my lowest gear, which was usual; but as I pushed off, the pedal seemed to offer no resistance! It caused me to veer; and I had to stop and start up again. That was something new; and it occurred to me that perhaps my force efforts are starting to pay off.🤑
It didn’t feel much like it this morning, though. Out-bound, I had a stiff headwind; and at times was getting blown sideways! Am I a sidewinder?
Sidewinder? 🐍
I don’t think I want to be a sidewinder; nor any other kind of snake. If I were, I’d have no legs; and then I couldn’t ride a bicycle! But back to the problem of wind.
A stiff sidewind is, in its own way, as bad as a headwind of equal strength. If it’s from my right, it persistently blows the mesh cover of my top tube-pouch back over the opening of the pouch; and it’s hard to get out a bite to eat. For a minute, I thought that perhaps I should get a zipper-closure Speedfil; but if I get a new top-tube pouch, I want one big enough for my cell phone as well as my ride food. The Speedfil isn’t quite that large.
I think we all have those days when we go out to ride; and the wind hits us; and we think, WHAT IS THIS? Today I was tempted to switch things around, and do “just ride” today; then work on pace tomorrow. After all, they say a training plan should be “etched in clay” so you can mold it as needed; not “chiseled in stone” so you can beat yourself up with it. All the same, I had to remind myself that I needed this fight-the-wind practice for RAGBRAI!
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ABOUT ME
I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story.
I live in New Orleans; and retired in January 2023. More time for cycling!
Website designed by Cecile Levert
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DISCLAIMER
I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.
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