So..... it's now OFFICIAL. I took my first road bike ride.... ever, with experienced riders.... Doug Pfeffer and Ben Beltromo of Team RWB. It was... in a word, AWESOME.
As I mentioned before, I dabbled in bike riding some years ago; and even a year ago in Mesa, AZ.... getting my daily exercise riding a mountain bike along the city bike lanes. But I had never ridden a decent road bike, in the company of other riders, who were experience. So.... I was the newbie.
One thing about being the Newbie... the guys didn't make me feel like it. They held the pace down, and kept it comfortable for me, but otherwise made me feel like I was a part of the ride. That is a common attitude in Team RWB events and the top reason I enjoy the club.
So anyway... back to this idea of organized bike riding: Clearly it is a popular sport. One that, just as with golf, I wish I had taken more serious a lot earlier in life. But, no matter; like golf age is not a deterrent. You get started at your pace; you learn the particulars about your bike, the gears, cadence and riding.... and you work to increase your pace without overworking. What could be easier than that? The Wednesday Night Eagle Pride Ride is marked on my calendar every week for the foreseeable future.
I still have much to learn. I'll do some bike clinic stuff, lots of reading, and lots of riding leading up to Wednesday. And I will continue my Tuesday morning indoor bike class at McChord Fitness Center, main gym annex. And my 5k runs will continue, building on my cardio.
Next on my biking agenda are some decent pedals and shoes. I rode with my drop foot brace and it started feeling uncomfortable after about forty minutes. I probably don't need it, as not much power is being generated by my ankle or lower foot. It's really coming from my upper leg and my knee. Plus, I am guessing that a clip-on bike shoe will give me added up-lift, that I am not getting
Here's a tip for you older guys out there... You know who you are. Those of you sharing your 60th and 70th decade with me and others. Those of you riding an easy chair in front of your TV. Get Up. Go down and buy you a bike. And start riding it. You'll still have time for your daily couch potato marathon. Just not quite as much time. Best of all... you will feel better physically, and you'll like it mentally. It's not like you have to worry about those knee and hip replacements. Ride easy. Start with 30 minutes; increase to an hour. I promise you... it won't be long before you are riding for an hour, three and four days a week.
now.
The Eagle Pride Ride will be a permanent habit for me. As my riding experience comes together, I will add blogs... so stay tuned, and if you can... Come Ride With Me.
As always.... if you enjoyed this Blog, or have questions, or have a particular subject you'd like me to Blog about, please leave your comments below.
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