Back in the Saddle, Again

Tuesday, October 23 was outstanding. The Santa Ana winds that drove all the fires in Southern California pushed the clouds and rain away and the temperatures back up to give us one more day of summer. So, it was a good day to hop on the bike again, do the Magnolia loop, and see if I am, as I wrote a week ago, getting old and snarly.

Not yet.

Lance was right. It's not about the bike. It's about mental attitude, being prepared, eating right, getting rest, and doing it. (And, yes, it's also about oiling the chain, cleaning the bike, making sure brakes work, wheels are true and the helmet is on.) But, the Magnolia loop ride was great. Strong all the way through. The sunshine and the warmth helped, as did all the fall colors, but a lot of everything else was in place too.

Came back home via the BGT under the Aurora Bridge for the first time since it reopened. As you clear the bridge, headed east, Lake Union opens up in your field of vision and the views of the city, the boats, houseboats, and yes, even I-5 as it cuts an auto-scar north/south across Capitol Hill and Eastlake, are spectacular. Lots of other bikes out today, including commuters, exercisers, and the normal collection of denizens.

2620 miles, year to date. Can I make 3,000 by year end? With enough dry pavement, yes I can!



So, last night I visited Cycle U for the first time, for a bike fit. Came away impressed. After spending the time to listen about how I rode, what goals (such as they are) I had, and The coach hooked me up to the Compu-Trainer and watched me ride. With lasers, levels and observation, Tammy compiled the information she needed.

She adjusted pedals (knee-savers to move them out from the crank) and shoes (shims to compensate for the angle of my feet), moved the saddle back and lowered it. The result was a more comfortable ride that will be put to the test later today and then again on Sunday.

Importantly for the pocketbook, she confirmed that the Lemond was a good choice for me and my riding.

The next step is to complete the Athlete Profile and to sit down for a training consultation on Halloween. Let's see where that leads.

One more thing. Yesterday at the gym, someone came up to me after my session on the hamstring torture machine and remarked, "You've got big calves for an old guy! Are you a mountain climber?"