It's been about two years since I moved to San Francisco and even before I got out here, one of my goals was to bike to work 1 or more times a week. However, I didn't end up buying a road bike until late June of last year (shortly after selling my extremely useful hipster bike), and I really didn't start biking consistently until I agreed to do the Death Ride in January.
Now, the Death Ride is only two weeks away - but I sold my ticket this past Tuesday. Why? Well, I went on my first century ride last Saturday and I came to a couple important conclusions.
First of all, I enjoy biking to work. The route I take is about 50 miles and it takes me about 3 hours to do. I'll typically get up at 5 or so and be out the door by 5:20am. It's very scenic, not too challenging, and is a good workout before starting the 9-5.
A century ride, on the other hand, practically takes an entire day - one of my two precious weekend days at that. And on top of that, it requires some more restraint and healthy eating habits the previous day. Training for the Death Ride requires a few century rides (as it a 130 mile ride with over 15,000 ft of climb), and those training days are very inconveniently positioned during a period with ample beer, sun, and summer dresses.
Furthermore, the ride I went on last weekend was a disaster. Around mile 73, I got two flats and ran out of C02 cartridges to refill the air in my tires. 2 hours later and a short trip in a squad car, Will picked me 30 miles outside of San Francisco. FML. Let's just say I was not happy with my bike and have yet to repair the tire.
I've made two important conclusions from this experience: One, I generally enjoy sports are more 'short duration'. And two, the incessant reminder of this Calvin and Hobbes piece on biking.
