I have a new bicycle.
It's red.
It has 18 gears - Shimano, no less.
It has everything - bell, lock, pump, mud guards (very important on those lovely muddy roads), lights, etc. I think you get the picture - I like to be prepared you know.
The only thing.....and it's only a small thing, hardly a concern at all.....the last time I rode a bike was 25 years ago and that bike only had 3 gears.
It was a very wobbly start, let me tell you. I tried to go forward but that didn't work too well at first and I had to brake before I wobbled and fell off. I couldn't give up though as I needed to get home quick to pick up Bucket jnr from his holiday activity club.
So I set off, clunking through the gears (will really need to practice them), hoping to get home. On the way I passed some school kids doing a cycling proficiency course and they were all watching me as I sped past, didn't signal into my road and tried not to fall off. Hopefully they didn't learn too many bad habits from me.
And now I ache. I'm discovering muscles that have long been forgotten and I'm feeling every single one of my years.
I'm sure the next go will be a bit easier (I hope). Sam xx
I havent been on a bike in years! In fact I doubt I Could still ride. I take my hat off to you.I really could do with some form of exercise, I feel so unfit.
ReplyDeleteThanks Anne. Talking of hats, the kids loved how I looked in my cycling helmet - at least I think that's what the hysterical laughter meant.
DeleteGood for you for giving it a try! Keep practicing and you'll be flying by everyone on the road :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you, I'm going out this weekend to practice a bit more so hopefully wont look like a complete beginner going past people on the way to work.
DeleteI had exactly the same experience a couple of years ago when, after about 20 years, I got a bike. The last one I had only had three gears so I understand where you are coming from. Since when did bikes get so technical? Have fun with it :-)
ReplyDeleteHi Dawn, thanks for the comment. Getting along fine with the bike now, I even think I DON'T have enough gears as the bike doesn't go fast enough for me. Sam x
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