I have neglected my bike since we have lived in France.  I thought I would ride every day, but it has been more like once a week or once every two weeks with sputters and spurts of activity.  The only bright spot is really that I have been riding 30-50km once a month or so with a neighbor.  He is 20 and like 6’2″ and lanky – built like a proper cyclist.  The first time he showed up at our garden gate to ride he had a full local team kit (matching jersey, socks, shorts) on and was astride a very clean, full carbon bike.  My first reaction was ‘Shit…  This kid is going to KILL me …’

Turns out that even in my current chubby condition and at my advanced age, I still have a little something when riding and I had no problem staying with him on the flats and can take him in the hills.

We have been riding off and on for about 18 months and recently I had a friend from Germany in town that I used to ride with there.  A mini-tour of the local country side from atop a two wheeled stead was in order, but he didn’t bring a bike.  No Worries, I loaned him my road bike and I took one for the team and rode my single speed.  I just knew that they were going to kill me, but I needed the workout.

I am happy to report, that I stayed with theme both of them for the whole ride, and blasted by both up a moderate hill.  I was super proud of my self after – I am not saying I didn’t hurt or didn’t want to puke, but I was still proud of the showing I managed.  Not too shabby for a chubby bearded grandfather.