Good Bike Rides Can Make All the Difference

After the Crabtree debacle, I am so very thankful that I've had a few interesting and inspiring bike rides to put my spirit back on track.

The Urban Assault - Skirtboy planned a morning ride through the depths of Richmond - from the Huguenot Bridget to Forest Hill to the Nickel Bridge to the Carytown borders. At least he didn't take us through some areas he occasionally traverses that require bullet proof vests. I practiced lots of turning, stopping and riding in traffic - and almost toppled over from the dizziness of the Nickel Bridge grates.

The Ride of Many Rides - Starting with the Schnupp Loop (who is a traffic and hill connoisseur), the posse, Barricuda BL, SuperAnnn and I traveled the first segment that included Patterson Avenue and Lauderdale hills - as well as quiet, more rural stretches through West Creek and Manakin. I love the Schnupp Loop - as well as the opportunity to be with so many of my favorite bike buddies. SuperAnnn, Barricuda BL and I headed off to a second phase of the Ride of Many Rides to do a nice tour of West Creek. Then Barricuda BL and I tackled a ride through Goochland and Henrico, one we once found quite challenging, with a bit more confidence. We finished off my miles (not hers as she put in a bunch more) by looping again through West Creek, where we ran into Barricuda BN. I missed the bear sighting that everyone else noticed - but finished the Ride of Many Rides feeling stronger at the end than at the beginning.

The Ironwoman Canada Ride (part of it anyway) - Ironwoman Canada has a five county ride that we've modified for a few recent, shorter outings. The route combines long descents, steep and gradual climbs, technical curves and speed flats to practice important bike skills. My most recent outing had me finishing the ride faster than previous attempts, until getting dropped at a traffic light and relying on my poor directional instincts to catch up with the group. But I did get in a few extra miles!

These recent rides have boosted my attitude - by reminding me of why I love to ride, from the thrill of the challenge, to the joy of the ride, to sharing the experience with fellow bike lovers.

Luray is on tap for this weekend - which I hope will be a ride to add to this list!