Today was sunny, and warm (7 degrees Celsius).
Perfect for a road ride.
Because of the cold, icy weather we have been experiencing, I have not been on a bike in over a month. I had almost forgotten how good it feels.
I didn’t go far, or long – a thirty kilometre ride around the road in the park. This is one of my favourite rides. It includes 2 lengthy climbs with an average 5-6 % grade, a long, fast descent, and some flats. I didn’t work too hard. I had already done a workout in the gym including 50 minutes on the spinning bike.
Being in the gym for so long, I had forgotten several things. First, I had forgotten how much a headwind can affect a ride. There is no wind in the gym. As luck would have it, I had a strong one going out that slowed me more than I remembered. Second, I had forgotten how road bumps tire and bruise a tender, unsuspecting bottom. As much as I enjoyed the ride, my arse is sore tonight 🤕 And lastly, I had forgotten all the bike handling skills necessary to successfully avoid potholes, negotiate pedestrian and automobile traffic, and preferred aerodynamic body positioning for efficient descending.
You got it, I need more saddle time 🚴🏼 Fortunately, the weather forecast is improving. More sun and warmer temperatures than I’ve seen in months. During the next 4-6 weeks, I’ll make the transition back to the road, and out of the gym.
I need to if I’m going to be ready for the first century ride of the season, the 2017 Pacific Populaire.
PedalWORKS 
7° – seems positively balmy!
I don’t mind the cool weather. I suspended faster road rides when ice persisted on the streets here. We have had an unusually cold month here.
Ice is definitely a no-go.
Good for you! I’m about to head back inside as we weather another storm. Keep on writing so that I can live vicariously!
Where are you?
California… we’re now coming out of a 5 year drought. Loads of rain.
Ah … you are getting some of my Pacific Westcoast weather. Certainly not cycling weather.