I don’t know if “disappointed” is the best word for my 2011 cycling season. The lack of miles this year was a chosen scenario. With a new job and some changing life priorities, I knew that the time in the saddle was going to suffer.
But, a mere 1,500 miles so far is pretty bleak.
My 2010 total was closer to 2,400 miles. That’s a big difference. It reflects a time commitment that I was not able to match this year. I don’t expect to reach those same numbers in future years, but 2,000 miles is both a realistic and desirable amount of yearly riding for me.
After a break of nearly two weeks and only some sporadic riding throughout September, it was tough to get back on the bike Friday afternoon. But, for any physical pain the I endured, the emotional joy made up for it. I rarely feel better than when I’m turning the pedals.
But, the lack of cycling time sure showed up in my pedal stroke. I work hard to have a smooth, circular motion – making for an even application of power for the whole 360 degrees of rotation. It allows you to ride a bike for a long period of time and at a decent speed. Friday’s ride did not exhibit any of those good traits. Instead, I was jerky and sloppy and seemed to only have power in a downstroke.
That’s what I get for only 1,500 miles.
Still – there are no bad days on a bike. Jerky days – sure. But no bad ones.
