The Basement and Beyond

The last 2-months I have been able to ride consistently a few nights a week in the basement staring out a small window into the darkness. In 2009, I first rode outdoors again on the boat bike but often that was too much stress on damaged joints. In 2010, the bulk of my outdoor riding was again with Gavin at the helm. Much to my enjoyment our family rides grew longer and faster but I was still far from putting the kind of pressure onto the pedals I have taken for granted over the years.

So it has been rewarding in a weird way to see progress of how hard I can ride going nowhere. Almost enjoyable enough to lull me into thinking riding inside is fun. But sweating in place while staring out a window is not nearly the same as being knackered from a ride traveled beyond what can be seen from the comfort of home.

Skiing has been great, but even G has been asking to go for rides. He talks about riding along the river, going to the velodrome, watching cyclocross and cheering at racers flash by in a criterium. He's as parched and hungry as any racer just before a new season. He's even taken to asking to watch bike races I've DVR'd instead of Mickey's Club House.