They say you never forget how to ride a bike, and boy, were they right! About five years ago, my wife and I decided to get a couple of bikes and explore our local surroundings. Little did we know that it would open up a whole new world of cycling that we had never anticipated.
Our initial bike purchase was impulsive, driven by the desire for comfort and leisurely rides. We wanted something that would allow us to cruise around and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We opted for Townie bikes from Trek, equipped with lights and fenders for safety and a larger seat for added comfort.
However, as we started riding, we realized that the bikes felt heavy and cumbersome. They weren’t delivering the fun and excitement we had hoped for. Life got busy, and the Townies began collecting dust in the garage until a wake-up call prompted us to take action.
Concerned about my weight and overall health, I decided it was time for a change. We dusted off the Townies, took them to a local bike shop for a tune-up, and embarked on our first ride in a long while. To my surprise, we covered over 20 miles, feeling tired yet incredibly rewarded. Exploring Jekyll Island’s trails and roads added to the excitement, offering diverse options for both novice and experienced riders.
Motivated by my wife’s workplace health campaign, which tracked activities using a fitness app, we invested in Garmin Fitness Watches to better monitor our cycling progress. Not only did these devices help Tracye with her step count competition, but they also brought additional health benefits into focus.
With each ride, we realized we wanted more from our cycling experience: increased fitness, speed, and the ability to cover longer distances. Avoiding impulsive decisions this time, we sought guidance from Fred, a seasoned cycling expert at Griffin’s Bike Shop. He recommended the Active Bike from Specialized’s Sirus Model line, providing the upgrades we desired at a reasonable price point.
Test riding the bikes confirmed their suitability, and we made them our Christmas presents that year. Since then, we’ve spent countless hours on our Sirus Active Bikes, pushing ourselves further than ever before. From cycling 80 miles in a day in the Florida Keys to participating in group rides like Party Gras On The Coast, BRAGG Spring Tune Up, and Pedal Hilton Head, we’ve embraced the thrill of the sport.
The Sirus Bikes have proven to be reliable companions, requiring only basic maintenance. With nearly 1,000 miles on mine, I haven’t encountered any major issues. However, we do plan to invest in road bikes this year, seeking additional gears, lighter frames, and improved hand positioning for comfort on longer rides.
Choosing the right bike is crucial, so remember to define your purpose before making a purchase. Don’t hesitate to research sizing and consider online options, including used bikes, for better value and quality. Cycling is an adventure that rewards both body and mind, so get out there and ride, starting with what suits your purpose and budget.
Every revolution of the pedals brings newfound joy and fulfillment. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
