UBC REC Tri Du – My First Tri Blog

I’m beginning to resent my bike. I bought it off Craigslist for $150 after some extensive internet research to figure out what the hell I was looking for. I was really excited for it at the beginning, I even named him Lorenzo (his full name is Lorenzo Fiori). I got it back today from its first tune up and some repairs, the damage: $150 for a new back wheel and a bottom bracket (whatever that means). Including accessories, I have spent more on the bike than what it’s actually worth.

In order to like my bike a little bit more than I currently do, I went to MEC to get some more accessories. Believe it or not, I have never set foot in a MEC store before. I now feel like a true Vancouverite and I even understand some of the hype (they have a rock climbing wall!) I ended up spending less than $50 which, judging by the people at the checkouts around me is pretty rare when you visit MEC. My bike now has some shiny new pedals, a pouch for my phone and keys, and a headband to cover my ears.

I went on my first real bike ride last Sunday. By real I mean I wasn’t just riding from the bus loop to the stadium to play ultimate. I ended up riding 22km with one very painful uphill battle on Marine Drive from Spanish Banks up to UBC. Have I mentioned how much I hate hills??? Here are some things I wish I knew before I went on my ride: 1. WEAR GLOVES! Holy crap I cannot stress that enough. Ever been so cold that it actually causes pain? That’s was me on Sunday. 2. Invest in bike shorts. It’s not a purchase, it’s an investment. If you have any respect for your ass, you’ll buy bike shorts. 3. Wear a jacket that’s longer in the back. Little did I know, mostly due to numbness, my back was exposed for a good portion of my ride. Anyone have any tips for me?

I wish I could say that I like biking, but after last Sunday I was tempted to roll my bike off a cliff. Tomorrow I go for another long ride. Hopefully now that I have more bike expertise I’ll hate it a little bit less.