I went on another ride today, and it was wonderful. My body wasn’t so happy about it…20 miles in two days is a lot when you’re not used to it! But it will get used to it. I am getting an itch for a newer and faster one though. If I use it as a commuter, I will probably start looking into it.

We will have to go on a ride when you visit!!!!

i don’t know what it is, that hesitation. i had it for years before i got my new bike. there was nothing wrong with my old bike, but every time i wanted to go somewhere it seemed i had to fight thru these mental obstacles or something. of course once i finally convinced myself to ride i NEVER regretted it. but that was then. with my new bike, which i absolutely adore, every time i leave i have to talk myself out of riding. my rule has become “if the amount of time it takes to lock up and unlock is longer than the ride there and back, i should probably just walk.”

and it’s not just you and me. i think everyone has this initial anti-biking thing, and most people never end up riding at all because of it. it’s really a shame, because as much as i try to “sell” people on the joys of riding a bike, singing the virtues you described so well (ie. “it just FEELS great once you’re going!”) people are still so hesitant. but of the ones who have finally taken me up on it, without exception, they have all absolutely loved it and are so glad they did.

it truly is such a great experience, and on top of the way it makes you feel, it has all of these other huge advantages: being cheaper, not polluting, getting exercise, being faster than most other forms of transit (not commuting in from the suburbs, but for getting around a city i mean), and so on. it’s just such a fantastic way to get around!

i hope people read your post and feel inspired to give it a try themselves. i’m positive they’ll be glad they did.