Cheating on the Bike… December 1, 2005
The 
weather is turning and the bike is locked tightly into the confines of the computrainer. It seems like such a waste to see such a purely elegant machine strapped into that grotesque chastity belt. It is a beast of necessity, but it certainly reminds me every time I am on it that I am being robbed of the true pleasure of “the ride”. It suits the purpose but how does an avid cyclist fulfill himself when the pleasure of the ride is stolen away by the winds of winter…dare I seek comfort in the arms of a not so confined mistress???
This is the exact road I have traveled of late. Sure I still pay the appropriate attention to my other half. But I have lately begun to find solace in the company of another. As a cyclist I feel wrong just saying this, like I am out running around with a big scarlet letter on my chest. That is not so far from the truth. After all I have always said triathlon is the best way to ruin a perfectly good bike ride. But each step takes me closer to a precipice of hypocrisy. Running truly is a cruel mistress. I have returned now both times, heart racing, totally spent. But the euphoria soon wears off and the pain and aguish soon takes over. My legs feel as though they have been torn inside out. My biceps even got soar, what the heck; my biceps??? I mean I am no runner but how is that even physically possible?
The best thing about this whole experience is how it reminds me. It reminds me of why I am a cyclist. Why I am not a runner, or a tri-athlete. It reminds me that in spite of it all I love cycling above any other cruel training mistress that may be available. After all, cycling can usher me to more fantastic places. The bike is pure and exciting. After a ride I don’t feel as if my joints have been violated, turned inside out. I feel…at home on the bike.
Winter means we become acquainted with new activities, but ultimately I would argue that if you are a cyclist at heart, this time of year just refreshes your desire to be on the bike. So I will wait out the cold…hopefully I will be in a warmer climate or on an indoor track in the New Year. Check out my new web site…have a happy holiday.
3 Responses to “Cheating on the Bike…”
Hey kid,
I can’t believe this is the same kid who used to take the 2 metre long strides down the Alaska Higway when he was only ten. Syl still talks about what a beautiful runner you are. That being said I always regarded it as more of a necessary evil then a pleasure. Suffering one was destined to endure that they might be better at the things they really loved.
I have to say the word SOAR never was something I could use when I described my running experience although I was often SORE.
Have a great day,
Dad
YUKON DO IT!
Awe! Hey Zach! It’s awesome that you’ve become such a radd cyclist!! Gosh,I remember seeing you race in 2003, in Edmonton ;D And when I met you in the Yukon…Years ago..and we walked to the Bowling Ally…Anyways,keep in touch