I really like to get on the open country roads, and that is
part of what I like about running, though obviously the ground I can cover
these days is limited. A few times a month I take my urban race car (VW GTI)
out flying through the back country roads… rarely exceeding the speed limit,
though I have taken 15 MPH turns at 55 MPH. (My GTI laughs at turn speed
limits) =)
So I started to ponder how to see more of those beautiful
open roads, all while maintaining fitness, when the idea of a road bike popped
into my head. Now, I know nothing about road cycling, except they wear colorful
outfits and a most dedicated shave their legs (out of tradition I guess).
When I started researching road bikes I was immediately overwhelmed.
First of all, the price is pretty crazy, and of course the number of bikes and
components to choose from is downright intimidating to a newbie. After resisting
the urging from my brother-in-law to but a more expensive all carbon fiber
bike, I settled on a Giant Defy 1. It was the best new entry level road bike
that wasn’t too outrageous in price, but seemed to get as good as reviews as
the more expensive bikes. Sure it doesn’t have the bling factor for a bike
geek, but I am not a bike geek (just a geek).
So I get my bike, and my shoes, and my pretty biking cloths
and my padded biking shorts that make me feel like I have poo in them from the
padding, and set off for my first 10+ mile ride. Despite repeating in my head
over and over to unclip my pedals before I stopped, of course I forgot and fell
over sideways. No big injuries, just some blood and scratches on my bike.
And if that wasn’t enough to show what a biking newbie I am,
it took me one month to finally figure out I had to unscrew the little cap on a
presta value to get air into the tire. Compared to running, biking is
complicated! =)
I am working my butt up to longer rides (literally… my butt
has to get used to being in the ‘saddle’ as bikers call it). I completed a 26
mile ride and though, yeah, cycling is easier in many ways than running, but it
can be a great and enjoyable way to maintain fitness, without as much wear and
tear on your body (well… except you bum). Riding up hills is definitely good
for fitness, and honestly keeping up 16+ MPH speed for a whole ride is a good
workout.
As I ease back into running, I have another secret weapon
helping my fitness… cycling.
