Today was the day. It was going to be great. The sun was shining, the roads were dry albeit full of canyons and covered with sand, and the temperature was a whopping 53 degrees! My husband said he could run home for 30 minutes so I could take my hard core new TT bike out for it's first spin on the *gasp* road!
I admit to feeling quite nervous. I also didn't want to freeze. It always feels colder the bike, as you know, and I was ill-prepared way too many times last year. So today I had winter socks and bike shoe covers, long cozy bike pants, 2 thick under armour shirts, a jacket over that, a neck warmer, a think under armour hat under the helmet and gloves!!! A little overkill. I paid for this preparation on the way back up the hill.
I have been spending hours and hours pedalling away on the bike this winter. I have done long rides, short rides, easy rides and very hard rides. I have worked very hard I must say.
But this was like a new sport!! I headed down the hill and immediately noticed how wobbly I was with this new "beauty bike." (that's a favorite family quote from my nephew. He's 12 now but when he was 4 he got a new bike and someone told him, "it's a real beauty." He called it his beauty bike. Very cute.) So, my beauty bike was tipsy. I had my hands on the brakes out of the aero position but to shift, I had to get down of course. I felt like I was flying across the road with no control. Help. I definitely can't crash again. No way.
I finally turned onto a road that wasn't one long down hill and was excited to really get the feel of the bike. I had to swallow hard and pray when several 18-wheelers whizzed by me with no care in the world. This road is super busy but the only one without Serious potholes.
Here in lies the problem I had today. My NECK!!!! OUCH!! My neck and shoulders were so so sore! My bike fit is so aggressive that it kills my neck to look up at the road! Not good. I have been practicing this on the trainer of course, but it's not the same. I guess I didn't realize just how far ahead I would feel I needed to see while outside. I'm not sure what to do. My bike specialist recently lowered the bars a hair because I was so comfortable he thought I could do it. It's been fine inside but today was not good. I am not sure if I'll adjust to it or if I should just go back to the old fit.
In addition to that, the wind was fierce and the hills were unforgiving. I was not happy with the way it felt. I am sure after more rides in the open air it'll feel better. But today I was fed a piece of humble pie.
6 comments:
IF that new bike is the right bike for you, you will know in just a few more rides. Then you will name him/her, you will feel "one" with it and most of all, you will trust him/her. Enjoy the ride!
I so, completely know what you're feeling. Your description fits exactly what I felt both times I've been out this spring. It's a whole new thing! so wobbly! The sand and the wind absolutely don't help matters.
I had to laugh at your outfit. Overkill! You crack me up. The booties are great, though, aren't they?
I hope it starts feeling more comfy soon...I bet it will!
It always takes awhile. Marn is right, a few more rides and you'll be comfortable hopefully! I had a chance to ride outside this weekend...what a nice break from the trainer.
Hey, e-mail me your address so I can send you some pink socks!
ironkatemonster@yahoo.com
I have been outside once this year. Good for you. I hope you did something special for hubby since he came home to give you that 30 minutes.
I LOVE my new bike, I only rode it 2x so far (once training and once on the race) but I knew I loved it and I think it's because it is comfy. You are a BRAVE woman for attacking a more aggresive position- I have yet to do that. Try your new bike in the old bikes position and remeber you will go fastest if you feel good. Best of luck with it and in no time you will be posting about your magical ride on your new baby!
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