
3,000 miles. That is (approximately) how far I rode my bicycle(s) in 2015. It’s an accomplishment many have surpassed with ease, but it’s one worth noting nonetheless. Worth noting to whom remains to be seen. But on this first evening of the new year, January 1, 2016, this web blog starts with not a bang, but a proud whisper, a simple note to self: “Hey, you really did that. Great job!”
To put that distance into some perspective: 3,000 miles (or 4828.04 kilometers) is the equivalent of going from San Diego, California to New York, New York. Or from Vancouver, British Columbia to Ottawa, Quebec. Or just a little less than from Tangier, Morocco to Moscow, Russia (maybe including the ferry ride). And so on. When thought of in those terms, it’s a very, very long way. I’m an average guy, not an elite cyclist, so I felt every mile.
So how did I do it? Why did I do it? What difference does it make? Can I inspire others to have an awesome year in whatever arena they choose? As I begin a new year of bicycling (4,000 miles, perhaps?), those are the sorts of questions I hope to explore. Along with some stories, personalities, maybe some tips and tricks, and whatever else seems relevant, interesting or worth (web)logging about.
While biking is the main fodder/food for thought, it is not the only one, just currently the main topic. I also do yoga, meditate, work, attempt to be in better shape, volunteer (currently at two bike groups), have friends, family, and soon again roommates, enjoy movies, tv and comedy, plus other stuff. Which if I write about may be by turns amusing, compelling, educational, or boring as hell. Hopefully not the last one. Boring is bad. Unless you’re a miner.
So let’s get to it: Today I biked 25 miles. Not a huge distance, but not a walk in the park either. It was cold (40’s), cloudy, a bit windy, but dry here. Here being the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin, Texas. (Feel free to visit, but please don’t move here – too many people already are doing that, rents are high, traffic’s horrible, summers are super hot and humid, and it’s full of bicyclists.) Anyway, I picked up my riding buddy and we intended to join a local bike advocacy group, Bike Austin, for their Chasing the New Year’s Baby ride. Well, my friend had left his tire at my place and I left it there too, so the group ride didn’t happen. First rule of cycling: plan ahead. But we went on our own ride, and that was fine. Continue reading →