Bicycle Diaries
30 years riding, 15 years writing
Finally, time to ride
Went for a short spin today, after finding the time.
Been working on the yard for the last couple of weeks, from dusk till dawn, not leaving any time to ride. This afternoon, even though I was tired, I felt the need for spin.
MTB: distance 7.97 miles, average speed 12.8 mph.
Came down with the flu
Spent the last couple of weeks drinking mass quantities of cough syrup. Thankfully I’m recovering in time to enjoy the great weather.
This afternoon it was nice and cool, temperatures in the low 70’s and a slight breeze to keep it interesting. I didn’t want to go too fast for fear of draining my resources and letting the flu get back at me, so I just maintained a steady pace.
MTB: distance 11.62 miles, average speed 12.9 mph.
More windy weather
Today, wasn’t as bad as yesterday but it was still a bit difficult to keep a constant cadence with gusts of wind kicking you around. I’m making it a habit to climb up to Boyce Park and top off the water bottles, my legs feel fine, so why not push myself a bit.
The city needs to repair the trail that leads down from Boyce along the back of the Christian school that’s on Sardis. Any more erosion and we’re not going to be able ride down it or even safely walk on it.
MTB: distance 19.40 miles, average speed 12.5 mph.
Windy today
Had a tail wind heading out towards the lake, which made it easy to keep the speed close to 20 mph for the 2 miles the main trail lasts for. It was the way back that was brutal, head down, aero position and sucking wind.
After the first 12 miles, I rode up to Boyce Park to refill my water bottles and snack on a banana. I wasn’t intending on doing a long ride, but I felt good and the temperature was agreeable, even though the wind was kicking my butt.
MTB: distance 25.54 miles, average speed 12.8 mph.
Muscle memory
Today, my muscles started getting some of their memory back. They knew how to keep a constant pace for a few miles, without giving out on me. Another week and I should be close to the shape I was before the Winter break.
All I can ask for when I go for a ride, is an hour of steady pedaling. I’m not breaking any speed records, just eyeing the average speed on my computer and making sure I stay above 12 for a good workout.
MTB: distance 15.41 miles, average speed 12.0 mph.
Spring like weather
With the temperature looking to crack the 70’s, I donned my gear and headed out towards the lake. Did it ever feel good to get out and ride, too bad my legs were crying for me to take it slow and easy.
The inner trails were soggy, but that didn’t deter anyone from heading out and going for a walk. The amount of dogs on leashes almost outnumbered the people walking them.
It was truly a nice afternoon, it came just in time cause cabin fever was settling in. I like the four seasons, but I’m ready for warmer weather.
MTB: distance 17.24 miles, average speed 11.6 mph.
Rain, warmth, check
Raining for the last couple of days, today we woke up to a very warm day.
Time to get the gear on and ride, even though the ground is moist and the McAlpine creek is overflowing, it was worth it. Did a couple of laps around the McAlpine then did some hill work in the neighborhood, legs felt good.
MTB: distance 16.50 miles, average speed 12.4 mph.
Southern Winds
The winds bringing rain this afternoon, brought warmer weather. With the temps in the mid 60’s, I headed off for a quick ride this morning. Hadn’t ridden in a couple of weeks, I missed it a lot. Walking, though good exercise, leaves me wanting more, even if I huff and puff it up the inclines.
MTB: distance 11.69 miles, average speed 13.2 mph.
More room
Arose in the morning, had a cup of coffee, still felt full.
After the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, I hopped on the bike for a quick ride. There were many people out, enjoying the bright sunny day, making room also.
MTB: distance 12.06 miles, average speed 12.7 mph.
Make room for Turkey
We went for an hour long walk this afternoon and then as soon as I got home, I put on my gear and rushed out for an hour ride before the sun dipped below the trees. I’ll know in the morning if it was enough, or else it’s another long walk tomorrow.
MTB: distance 11.70 miles, average speed 12.3 mph.
Charlotte, NC
Spent 10 years in Charlotte, a block away from an entrance to the McAlpine Creek Greenway.
Switched to a mountain bike from the road bikes I was accustomed to riding for 15 years.
The time spent on these trails was most appreciated.
Trek Fuel 70
