I took my cross bike out this morning before work for its maiden voyage. The bike performed flawlessly. I, on the other hand, had a hard time keeping the rubber down. I hit the deck more than a few times…but who’s counting. I laughed, got back on the rig, and shredded more trail (the usage of the word "shredded" is debatable). The dribble of blood coming from my knee only made me want to ride harder, get better. I could have ridden all day. Damn work was calling, though.
Cyclocross is a beast. Having a road biking mentality, my mind was bent as I tried to apply what I thought were the proper techniques to successfully navigate the terrain. On many occasions I was on the brink of disaster—overcooking turns, turning too sharply, even climbing out of the saddle was calamitous on the loose gravel (that’s where I obtained the trickle of aforementioned blood).
After I realized my tires were a tit over-inflated, I stopped, lessened the pressure, and was again on my way. It’s amazing the difference in ride-feel after releasing 5-10 psi. The road was instantly softer and more forgiving. I was carrying more speed through the turns. I felt steadier. "This rules", I thought. "I am totally into this".
*Sidenote* Dan Langlois is an animal. He tears through the woods like a rabid boar. I have a lot to learn, bigger balls to grow. I look forward to the challenges to come.
I omitted the part about Nathalie kicking my butt, which she did—all over the woods. She rocks!
I’m glad you set up tepid laps, Nathalie. It was an awakening experience. I now know what I’m getting myself into (bloody knees and falling in large nettle plants). It will be some time before I graduate to warm laps and beyond.
Stay radical!
0 comments:
Post a Comment