Schwinn or lose

All of my life, I've had bicycles. At least, there's been a bike laying in the weeds somewhere at the nursery. However, all of our bikes are "grocery story specials." What I mean is that the bikes are all fat tire, straight handlebar, assembled-in-store types. Their a cross between a mountain bike and a motorless go kart. 

So, recently, I've been looking for something a little more specific. I decided that a bike would be a good investment for a number of reasons. First, I can't hit Dixon Rec Center and use the stationary bikes any more. Second, Anthony keeps encouraging me to "get a hobby." He wants me to find some activities that make me excited to get out of bed in the morning. We both know that only work can get me that excited, but, alas, I'm giving it a try.

In looking for a bike, I wanted something different than the one I sold for $50 more than a year ago. I wanted a road bike, and I came across a deal along the way. Fellow Oregonian intern Ellen Gilmer was preparing to drive back to Indiana because her internship was supposed to end. The internship, as it turns out, is not ending for Ellen. She's still in beautiful Portland and will be until February. However, she was still willing to sell her bike.





So, today was the epic first day for me to take the red, Schwinn "step-through" for a ride. Mom and I took a trip out to the bike path just behind our house and we made the loop from S Pine St., up to Township Rd and then to the logging road (bike/walking path). We took a left, heading southwest, and then hit 13th to return home.

The epic bike ride, which was a short jaunt that I later repeated after adjusting the seat, was really enjoyable. The road bike limited resistance to the road with skinny, low profile tires, and the seat/handlebar position put me comfortably pumping the pedals to fall behind, then pass Mom in a blur of comfortable speed.



I was just checking it out and the logging road ends in a loop on the north side. I think I'll make it my goal to loop it and back in the next few days. Also, Molalla is only 12 miles away. I think that this bike, and riding bikes in general, is something that I could get into if I don't try to overdue it. I have a tendency to burn myself out on things. I'll get into friendship-bracelet making or something and then I'll do it until I never want to look at the materials again. However, while the bike ride was somewhat difficult, it was also really enjoyable. And I can tell that I'm already more agile than I thought I'd be with a bike. I was seriously afraid I would fall on my face.

After the ride, a text went to Anthony, telling him how it went. He was happy that I was trying. While bicycling is an enjoyable hobby in its own right (yet to be seen for me), it's also one of Anthony's regular activities. There's a double whammy for the bike. A) It's active and b) It's something I can share with my hunny.



Crossing my fingers for more enjoyable rides! Wish me the best on the biketoberfest biking beginning.