Who knew that cycling on two wheels could make someone happy?
Well, I was given a bike in November 2023, starting an adventure that has changed my life.
What first started as something enjoyable and new, quickly turned into a physical and mental health release. Fresh air, wind on the face, and just being in a space of calmness was refreshing.
Then as the days and months went on I became more invested in the idea of cycling. An obsession some would say.
Road cycling is unique, depending on what part of the world you are from, you are either loved or hated. No in between.
Australia has this real negative outlook on cyclist, which can be somewhat dangerous and violent. Nevertheless, I was committed to giving cycling a chance.
And as my road cycling journey started build so did the kit. From op-shop to op-shop, the task of finding gear to ride in was just as exciting as the cycling itself.
Maybe it was the post covid blues, the thought of exercise through a set of two wheels while restrictions were in place, quickly hit the backburner as we emerged from the pandemic and people discarded their cycling gear. The thrift bins were getting a lycra workout.
Each door I went through I found cycling gear on every rack. Bargains were had, clothing good as new, some slightly used but would do the trick.
Six months later and I have a wardrobe full, jerseys, bibs, shorts, helmet, and even some $10 shoes recently purchased. I actually started to look the part.
Every weekend the alarm goes off, I set the phone tracker and off I trek. The journeys have gotten longer, riding through different places to explore, and of course the usual coffee stop.
What started out as something fun and new, has transformed into a love of exercise, exploring and mental health. Not to mention cycling itself, thanks to SBS and its European coverage I have started keeping tabs on the pro circuit.
Nearly 40-years-old, yes I am a MAMIL (Middle Aged Man In Lycra), I have found a new hobby and sporting love.
Tour de France on Netflix, podcasts, and following accounts on Instagram dedicated to cycling life. I am hooked.
Living on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria helps the cycling life I have created. Open roads, coastal beach rides and farming scenario. I couldn’t be more blessed.
When I think about cycling and what it has meant to me in this short space of time, one thing pops into my head. Why didn’t I start this sooner?
My bike, a Reid Osprey, will do for now and I am forever grateful for it. However, thoughts of an upgrade have already crept into the mind as I look to the future.
Cycling has it’s own culture, uniqueness, and for some it is a way of life. Hitting all those cycling points in my life, it always rounds back to finding my happy place.
“Do what makes you happy” is a fitting quote when I think about cycling, because it sums up how I feel. It’s where it all started.
As I close this laptop and set the alarm for tomorrows ride, do one thing to find your happiness. Because I found mine.
Two wheels and lycra on a weekend morning ride.
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