I really like riding my bike, and I thought it would be a good idea to share a little bit more about it.
First, the Hard Data:
Year: 2018
Manufacturer: Felt
Model: VR5
Size: 87
Color: Matte Black
Place Purchased: Spoke-n-Sport Sioux Falls, SD.
Nickname: The Felt
Now the Story:
I bought this bike in April of 2018. When I graduated Physical Therapy that January, I was given a referral to a local health gym. I started going almost every day and kept going. One of the benefits of the gym is that they have a certified triathlon coach on staff and she teaches a training course that culminates in a local sprint distance triathlon.
On the first day of the course it became rather apparent that I was immensely behind all of my other training mates. They were all capable of running, riding, and swimming. I was capable of sort of jogging, flailing in water, and riding my bike. However, I didn't let that stop me. This was a training course, and I was going to use it to increase my ability. I also never felt judgement from the others in class. Rather we all encouraged each other.
Now I could ride my bike but I had never ridden more than probably 10 miles in one go. My family really likes to ride bikes, and the farm has quite a collection of rummage sale and auction bikes. I found out quickly that my bike maybe wasn't up to the task of completing this race. So I rolled into a local bike shop and Mary was there to help.
This bike pretty quickly caught my eye, and it was the only one I test rode. The moment I got on it, my world shifted. I never knew that a bike could feel so smooth, so fast. Before this bike, I had never had a "new" new bike since probably 2nd grade, and the changes in technology are pretty darn amazing!
Don't get me wrong, this bike wasn't cheap. I also have had to put in a fair amount of upgrades including improved pedals, tires, and not one but two rear rim upgrades because I kept busting spokes. But now over 3000 miles, 8 flats, 2 chains, and innumerable wheel revolutions later, it is still my best bike (and only bike). I've stretched the limits of what this road bike can do including major off road gravel adventures and even a bit of cyclocross, and in the process I think I've stretched what I can do.
When I bought this bike, I don't think I had a clue of how it would be an enabler for me. It would enable me to meet new people and have new adventures. It is a thing an object, a tool, but it is a special tool to me. I'm excited to see what comes next. I just need to take it one pedal stroke at a time.
'till next time!
-Matt
Comments