Determination

Someone said to me today that she admired my determination in cycle commuting all year round. I’m pretty sure she thought I was a little bit crazy as well but she managed not to mention that! I’ll admit to being crazy, but also agree that I have always been determined in nature.

It got me thinking on the way home: How much determination does it take to get on the bike day after day to get to work? In truth I think it definitely helps, especially when starting out. However, I would say there are lots of other reasons why I ride every day instead of the alternatives. Of which, the main one is enjoyment. The feeling of the air blowing against my face, clearing my head just can’t be matched.

This morning was one where I did actually need to be determined though. I awoke early so that I could get home on time for nursery pick up. It’s always difficult to get going at that time in the morning, but today my legs felt especially heavy. The weekend was very busy and I think the muscles were complaining at being put to work so soon. Also, a slightly damp start to the day did not help.

However, after 8 weeks of commutes in 2019 I was not going to let a bit of tiredness stop me. With my winter gear put back into service (damp and cold here this week) I set out and started spinning my way to work. It always feels better once you are out and moving and today was no different. Slowly I could feel my legs warming up and started to enjoy myself before long.

The Chase

I was only 3 miles into the ride when I could see a flashing red bike light up ahead. This gave me a little encouragement to push a bit harder and try to catch up. Surprisingly I closed in quickly and before I knew it was on his tail. Perhaps my legs were not too bad after all…

When we rolled up to the next set of lights, I could hear the crunching of his tyres on the road. He still had studded tyres on his bike, which was a lovely but heavy steel framed steed. That’s why I caught up so easily! After making acquaintances I enjoyed his company for a good 6 miles and was very impressed with how quick he could go on that setup.

It’s always good to bump into another cyclist on the commute. For starters it gives a bit of motivation to make chase. Then, you have the option of sharing the workload by taking turns on the front, or just chatting if able to ride side by side. Either way, it makes the time pass more quickly and takes your mind of any aches, pains or tiredness you might be feeling.

This morning it did that perfectly for me.

Return Journey

Although still a little tired on the ride home, I felt more refreshed and the sun had reappeared. I was back on the Vitus bike as the roads were wet this morning and it is the only one with guards on.

Weekend Test Ride

I mentioned at the start that we had been busy this weekend. Part of that was attending the Scottish Running Cycling and Outdoor Pursuits Show (SCROPS). This is a great exhibition where you get to see all the latest gear, clothing & bikes and take part in a whole host of hands on events and trials. We had a brilliant time looking at all the expensive bikes, going on the zip line, running track, climbing wall and bike test circuit.

I’m always aware of the need to look out for new commuting equipment though. With this in mind I got my daughter to give one of the bikes on show a good test drive. Here she is putting it through it’s paces (looking pretty determined as well!):