Finding balance between work and play is difficult in our modern world but in cycling I think I have found something that can tick nearly all the boxes ! Perhaps after the first best thing to do in the morning ?
Spinning alongside the northern beaches this morning with Michael, Dragon and the Captain I contemplated what is it that makes a good ride ?
For me it starts with the anticipation, the weather forecast looked promising, the bike has been singing along without a clunk and the distance to be covered and the speed of the group you plan to ride along with is not playing on your mind. The company is of course important as you soak up the fine views and indulge in a great coffee at a cafe, talking anything but work. New acquaintances are made and established one’s strengthened.
On this ride, new vistas and places were introduced with a wave of the arm above the roar of the near constant headwind but it wasn’t all sedate – a couple of Hail Mary’s and then we were off down the thrilling Mona Vale Road descent (no speed camera’s luckily !). We could indulge in the moment knowing everything at home could wait for at least a couple of hours ! Bring on those endorphins and smiles.
I’d like to tell you how far our ride was – and I could probably cheat using the Interweb – but I bailed out in Bilgola to do the boardwalk with Suzanne and the kids and returned by car. Suffice to say, this is a great outing for ER’s quick and slow – there is a reason why the Insular Peninsula is regarded so highly by those lucky enough to call it home.
Special thanks go to Michael for fixing my brakes, Dragon for the tools, tips and shelter and Captain for my new (old) ER’s shirt – look out for it tomorrow (clearly my Bogan look has gone on too long !). And I think we’ll leave the boardies at home next time …….. or maybe it was just too early for wolf-whistles?
Safe cycling,
Phil