It's like riding a bike... Right?

Thus far, in my journey of becoming a cyclist, I have found myself thinking about the age old adage, "it's like riding a bike." I appreciate that this saying transcends cycling, and has become a cliche used in so many life situations. But on a literal level, I love the fact that riding a bike, a fun childhood experience for so many of us, is something that becomes ingrained in your brain once you learn how to do it. You never forget the basics -- what could be better?

Unfortunately, the basics are all I have going for me right now. The "little Johnnie Hurley" you see above, in the mid-to-late 1980's picture taken in my backyard with my injured father, knows about the same amount of information about cycling as the "not-so little" John Hurley of today (I promised myself I wouldn't refer to myself in the 3rd person on the blog -- whoops!). That said, I am proud to say that I am making progress.

I have been hammering away on my indoor trainer, and I feel great from a physical standpoint. I have enjoyed countless articles and websites about cycling and everything associated with it - you name it, I'll read it. I have bought some great books on bike training and long distance cycling. I have received more emails about road-bike trails in Massachusetts than I care to admit. I am on my way!

And, while I remain a rookie in all things cycling, I am having fun with the learning curve. I am eager to become an expert, but I am thoroughly enjoying the experience of working my way up.

The best part? Even if I don't learn everything there is to know -- if I am not sure whether I am producing enough wattage per pedal stroke, or I don't find out which bib shorts are best for my lanky, 6 foot 8 inch frame, nor do I discover what chamois cream is best for preventing and treating saddle sores (gross, I know. But what do you expect after hours and hours of sitting on this?) -- it won't matter that much in the grand scheme of things.

Because when I find myself on this challenge, in the middle of the country, exhausted from the day's ride, the only thing I will need to know to get me through are the basics -- and those you never forget. Again, I ask - what could be better?