2020 Summary

Putting a wrap on another year with meager cumulative mileage.  Intentions of local commuting and brevets in Minnesota gave way to a telework reality in mid-March.  As COVID  cases climbed through the year (with some of the highest per-capita rates in the country here in Bismarck) my aversion to risk kept me close to home, usually on foot via lengthy walks/hikes/jogs using nearby trails.

One new wrinkle of significance for 2020 were my two forays on the Volae recumbent late in the year. The experiences were humbling, as my start-stop and handling skills left much to be desired.  However, the comfort - or rather, the lack of discomfort - of recumbent riding was unmistakable.  No neck pain, numb hands, or sore knees and ankles.  Definitely looking forward to more miles on the Volae in 2021!

 

2019 Summary

No rides of any significance were attempted in 2019.  A convergence of limited free time and a general apathy towards distance cycling resulted in the lowest cumulative mileage in over 20 years of riding (10 rides, 146 miles).  I did not ride the Koga-Miyata this year.

After much reflection, I’ve decided to let my RUSA and Minnesota Randonneur memberships lapse.  Outdoor activities have transitioned to hiking and trail running, activities I find safer (away from the increasingly distracted and drug addled drivers) and less burdensome from a time management standpoint.  I plan to continue to ride, however.  Two recent acquisitions (Brompton M6R and a Volae Century recumbent) will open up new cycling opportunities, and I’ll certainly commute when it’s safe to do so.

This blog will continue, but without the brevet reports and annual summaries.  I’m sure some of the new outdoor activities will embody the randonneur spirit (i.e., “to ramble”), plus there’s always the chance I’ll return to distance cycling in some form once I have more free time.

Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday season and a happy and healthful 2020!