No, no it isn't.
I am the pround new owner of and SE Draft lite, but riding a bike terrifies me.
(source)
You see, I've been on a bike 5 times in the last 15 years, and all were not pleasant experiences:
1. 1999 - The Incident
My face + tree branch = broken nose. You fill in the blanks.
2. 2004 - Ireland
Rented bikes on the Aran Islands so we could get around. First off, bike rental guy asked me if I needed a push. We didn't get far, and missed about half the attractions on the island (that were uphill) since I was so shaky, unsure and stopped any time I hear a car coming.
3. 2006 - Race Training
I was training for a duathlon* so I took my cousins childhood bike for a spin. 5'8" adult on bike for a 12 year old - not good. Not fun, not comfortable.
4. 2006 - Race Day
Took same childhood bike for a 12 mile ride - mostly uphill. Note: I only had one training ride on said bike - see experience #3. (which would be my own fault, but still.....)
5. 2010 - Japan
Why just last year! I misjudged the sidewalk and dumped the bike...about 15 minutes into our ride. The picture below is deceiving, it was before I even got on the bike.
Why just last year! I misjudged the sidewalk and dumped the bike...about 15 minutes into our ride. The picture below is deceiving, it was before I even got on the bike.
 |
| nervous smile. |
Despite all of these less than stellar experiences, I still purchased a bike. I haven't had a car for close to a year now, and while walking everywhere is great, it's nice to have an alternate mode of transportation. So I started researching bikes. I knew what I wanted (urban, affordable) and what I didn't (pink/purple, expensive). I wanted something easy to ride and comfortable.
While I am slow to start and still getting over my fear, I am having fun. I'm re-learning to ride a bike - literally.
While I am slow to start and still getting over my fear, I am having fun. I'm re-learning to ride a bike - literally.
A special thanks to the guys at Landry's Bicycles who were helpful and patient. I'm looking forward to exploring new places on my two wheels!
*WTF is a duathlon? A duathlon is a race where you run-bike-run. Kind of like a triathlon, without swimming.
Sweet single speed. Congrats, good luck, wear a helmet!
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed you still went for it. I actually don't know how to ride a bike and have been thinking about learning this summer. No bike purchases in my future though ;) Have fun! Now you're committed so you'll become a pro, I'm sure :)
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