Ride 21 - Back in the saddle
It’s good to be back. For those that didn’t see my other post, I had to take a week off the bike due to burning my hand pretty bad a week ago. I could hardly grip anything for a few days and the pain didn’t really go away until Sunday. I was able to get back on the bike yesterday and go for my normal weekday ride.
As usual for my weekday rides, the alarm was blaring at 5:00 am and I rolled on out. Thankfully, I had layed everything out and prepped the bike the night before. After taking a week off, everything was in disarray and getting ready the night before probably saved me 20 minutes.
Once I got the garage door open I was glad to feel a slight coolness in the air. The weather this past week has been scorching here in Jacksonville. Everyday has been in the low-to-mid 90s (32-35 C) with high humidity. I couldn’t imagine riding during those conditions during the day. There was still some humidity in the air but it wasn’t bad.
I was worried about how I would ride after taking a week off. My worries were unfounded as I seemed to pick up right where I had left off. The legs felt good and there seemed to be no “troubles down below” if you catch my meaning.
Upon reaching the first long straightaway I almost immediately saw three runners over on the sidewalk. This particular area is very popular with the runners and walkers but I rarely see more than one or two during my entire ride this early in the morning. Five minutes in and I’ve already seen three. My guess is that these may be folks that usually exercise later in the day but the heat has forced them to workout earlier. That’s fine by me. It gives me a chance to say “Goodmorning” and see other health conscious people.
As I continued on I couldn’t help but notice how dark it was. There were no clouds but no moon either. I also seemed to be hitting the streetlights as they cycled off periodically. At leat I think that’s what they’re doing. I’m going to have to ask some of the engineers/designers here at work if that’s how they are designed to operate.
As far as my riding went, everything felt really good. I was maintaining a good average speed and riding with no problems. I continued past my normal turnaround point and decided to add a little extra. I finally turned around when I did because I was running short on time. I really felt like I could have ridden much further but it was probably best to not overdue it with this my first ride in a week.
Here’s the numbers: 52 minutes, 13.33 miles, 15.4 mph avg
I want to thank everyone who continued to visit and comment on Biking To Live, even while I wasn’t posting for the last week, and for your words of encouragement as I healed from the burn. It’s very much appreciated.
Carolyn on Tue, 10th Jun 2008 1:14 pm
I am glad you were able to get back on your bike and go for a ride. Sounds like you had a great ride.
Cyclingred on Tue, 10th Jun 2008 1:29 pm
Heat indexes here over the last couple of days have been over 100. And since I commute by bike I am out in it at the end of the day. You just learn to live with it and take it easy.
I have never in all my years of cycling had any major problems in the nether regions. Knock on wood. I read about it all the time but have never had a problem.
I am completely sold on Brooks leather saddles which I think help. They weigh a little more but I can even knock out a good hours ride in regular jockey briefs and shorts and do fine on a Brooks.
daveydave on Tue, 10th Jun 2008 4:03 pm
@Bryan - glad to see a new ride summary. Always enjoyed!
@CyclingRed - I wish I could say the same. I think I finally found a bib that really works well and isn’t extremely heavy. Nalini Brand over at http://www.probikekit.com. We’ll see how they work after a month of rides.
dave
jaxgtr on Tue, 10th Jun 2008 10:22 pm
Brother, Monday nights ride was brutal, believe it was 92 when we left. Got to the bridge and was only able to do one loop as the heat and humidity was really playing havoc with my HR. On the way back, we were in 10-15 mph headwind, but the sun was behind the trees and it was much cooler.
Riding in the morning is a better way to go, but I just can’t get comfortable doing it. Looks like I am stuck doing night rides.
thePig on Wed, 11th Jun 2008 3:48 am
Good to hear you are back on the bike. I find if I take a week off there are no ill effects but any more than that and I definitely feel lethargic and weak on the first ride.
Bryan on Wed, 11th Jun 2008 8:06 pm
@Carolyn: Thanks!
@Cyclingred: You’re right. I’m sure acclimitization is key. I just had a little discomfort down below when I re-started about two months ago but since then, and a new pair of bibs later, I’m much better. I’ll have to check out those Brooks saddles.
@jaxgtr: You guys are insane riding the bridge in this heat. I guess I’m ok with the mornings because I had to get up early for so long while I was in the military.
@thePig: Thanks. No ill effects that I could tell either.
jaxgtr on Wed, 11th Jun 2008 10:55 pm
just to let you know, bridge work is not required. we had couple people not ride the bridge loop, but it’s an obsession with me on getting my fat butt over atleast once.
Arlyn on Thu, 12th Jun 2008 7:27 pm
Welcome back on the saddle Bryan! Sometimes taking a week off can allow your body to catch up with your previous training. You’re probably stronger now than before.
Bryan on Thu, 12th Jun 2008 9:13 pm
@jaxgtr: I need the bridge work, let me tell’ya. Now that my daughters ballet is done on Monday’s for the summer, I might be able to make this ride at some point.
@Arlyn: Thanks! It felt good to be back. I rode Monday, couldn’t ride Wednesday or Thursday, but should be able to ride tomorrow morning. It feels good to be back.