Saturday, February 14, 2009

Returning to the Dark Side







After more than a decade of recumbent riding, I reached out for the dark side.
I have been following Alan's Ecovelo site for quite some time and have been itching to get back to my roots of riding.
I purchased a 2008 leftover Fuji Tourer off Ebay and have made my own desired modifications. It is a work in progress and is not completed. I will save all the technical data when I have satisfactorily completed my project. As of now I have done numerous 30 mile spins and must confess, they have been quite enjoyable.
My legs have had no problem adjusting. Back, neck, and wrist pain have not been an issue. My Cloud 9 seat although not perfect is pretty comfortable. The long wheelbase steel frame is quite forgiving and the ride reminds me of my old Status. It was an easy adjustment going back. It was harder getting my bent legs than my DF legs. It is certainly different than recumbent riding, but maintains it's deja vu as to why I love riding.
It will probably take me a few more months to tweak things out, but at least I am enjoying the ride.
KEEP RIDING!!!

Monday, February 9, 2009

Why I Ride

Cycling gives me a spiritual calmness and a oneness with nature.
It gives me short term and long term achievable goals.
Riding 15 miles on January 1st just to get my 1st mileage logged, on a blistering cold day, warms my heart.
I get excited when I complete my age in miles on my winter birthday week.
Writing my BLOG sipping a glass of wine after a great cycling day makes me feel serene.
Commuting to and from work makes that day special.
Realizing after a few days off, my car has not moved, amazes me.
I have become more foot print conscious.
I recycle, I use home filtered water instead of store bought, I use fluorescent bulbs, and I drive a fuel efficient sub-compact, but that is not why I ride.
I just ride because it makes me feel good.