Friday, November 13, 2009

My New Bike!

Well, I've been talking for a while about maybe breaking out of my running shoes and doing a different event for Team in Training. A triathlon? A century bike race? I've debated about it back and forth, and the debate goes on. But one simple truth emerges - unless I have a bike, no amount of wanting to do a triathlon or a bike race will suffice, because I won't be able to train.

But what kind of bike? Well, I don't know a lot about bikes, so it has to be simple. I can't worry about all kinds of fancy gadgets and gizmos. I just need a basic bike. And with the economy so uncertain, I don't want to spend a ton of cash right now. I have to get something that I can afford. Even if I have to get a different bike for if I really do a triathlon or century, it is important to get started with a bike for basic training. So today, I took that big step, and got that training bike.

I'm pleased with it so far, but I did struggle a bit on some hills. Maybe it is the bike, or maybe it is just my technique - a poor carpenter blames his tools, right? I like the color of the bike, a kind of pastel Team in Training color. That's really important. Now, I know that serious cyclists, the kind that pay more for their bikes than they do for their cars, might scoff a bit and maybe even guffaw as I peddle along, trying to pass them on the uphill climbs. But I don't care. I like my little bike and just think it is a matter of learning its idosyncracies and then I will be able to ride better.

Here is a picture of me on my bike. What do you think?

6 comments:

TNTcoach Ken said...

Looks like you might be having some issues with the gearing. You might need to check your tires also. It's a start....

Unknown said...

I think you are ready for Tahoe!

Susan Ann J. Glass said...

You are killing me, Art! Get the darn Triple Crown already! Smooches!

Cheryl said...

You have just made my evening.....I am smiling from ear to ear......

Maymont Amy said...

Oh, my, Art, it's a 24 mile ride at St. Anthony's. I think it would be a long one on this bike!

o2bhiking said...

Yeah, it's tough on the hills, Amy! :)