When can I expect riding to become enjoyable?
11-10-20, 07:59 AM
#76
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Hmmm. My thoughts are similar to others in this thread.
Riding the same streets and paths everyday, would bore me too. Unless I was a commuter, I would ride only every other day and mix in other activities in those non-bicycling days.
Riding to the local coffee shop or grocery store is a great reason to put in some bike miles with a purpose behind it. That's pretty much why I have a bike set up as a utility bike, so when I don't feel like riding I have the option to not take a car. I'm almost always happy after I complete that ride no matter how much I might not want to go to the store.
I'm with others in wanting to know what kind of 3-speed bike is being ridden. Nothing wrong with a 3-speed if you don't mind the wide gap in the gears, but it may bore a former BMXer to tears, unless it's an adult sized BMX style bike that happens to have a 3-speed hub on the rear wheel. Some imitation fixie/single speed bikes came like that, which is a pretty neat idea for those that want it.
Maybe it's a simple as keeping the 3-speed and adding a completely different type of bike to the stable? Ride every other day, instead of every day, and pick a different bike on the riding days. But don't pick another copy of what you have right now.
Riding the same streets and paths everyday, would bore me too. Unless I was a commuter, I would ride only every other day and mix in other activities in those non-bicycling days.
Riding to the local coffee shop or grocery store is a great reason to put in some bike miles with a purpose behind it. That's pretty much why I have a bike set up as a utility bike, so when I don't feel like riding I have the option to not take a car. I'm almost always happy after I complete that ride no matter how much I might not want to go to the store.
I'm with others in wanting to know what kind of 3-speed bike is being ridden. Nothing wrong with a 3-speed if you don't mind the wide gap in the gears, but it may bore a former BMXer to tears, unless it's an adult sized BMX style bike that happens to have a 3-speed hub on the rear wheel. Some imitation fixie/single speed bikes came like that, which is a pretty neat idea for those that want it.
Maybe it's a simple as keeping the 3-speed and adding a completely different type of bike to the stable? Ride every other day, instead of every day, and pick a different bike on the riding days. But don't pick another copy of what you have right now.
11-10-20, 11:20 AM
#77
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I definitely think getting up enough endurance is one of the main issues, which I anticipate will improve. The first couple of days were the toughest by far. Enjoy or not, I don't hate it by any means (except the short uphills) and considering that almost every human being spends most of their days doing plenty of things they'd rather not, it could be be much worse.
11-10-20, 11:42 AM
#78
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I've noticed that when I'm out in crappy weather, everybody who's out there has a big stupid grin on their face. Now during the winter it's because their faces are frozen solid, but still.
11-10-20, 11:48 AM
#79
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11-10-20, 12:00 PM
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Find someone to ride with.
Changes from focusing on the discomfort to chatting, and wanting to not look bad to the other person.
Eventually, fitness improves, and with it, enjoyment.
Changes from focusing on the discomfort to chatting, and wanting to not look bad to the other person.
Eventually, fitness improves, and with it, enjoyment.
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11-10-20, 12:29 PM
#81
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I'd like to know what the "3 speed entry level bike" is, and your general location. Please post some pics of what you're riding.
I know around here, there is no way I'd get any enjoyment out of riding a "3 speed entry level bike". I wouldn't even want to ride something like that to the end of my street, let alone 8+ miles.
I know around here, there is no way I'd get any enjoyment out of riding a "3 speed entry level bike". I wouldn't even want to ride something like that to the end of my street, let alone 8+ miles.
11-10-20, 12:52 PM
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And I too would love to see some pics. Proof of life pics.
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11-10-20, 01:22 PM
#83
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I'd like to know what the "3 speed entry level bike" is, and your general location. Please post some pics of what you're riding.
I know around here, there is no way I'd get any enjoyment out of riding a "3 speed entry level bike". I wouldn't even want to ride something like that to the end of my street, let alone 8+ miles.
I know around here, there is no way I'd get any enjoyment out of riding a "3 speed entry level bike". I wouldn't even want to ride something like that to the end of my street, let alone 8+ miles.
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11-10-20, 02:58 PM
#85
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Thinking of 3-speeds, this discontinued bike is pretty cool.
https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear...ectra-moto-3i/
Of course, an 8 speed IGH can be better.
https://www.trekbicyclesuperstore.co...i-350460-1.htm
Last edited by FiftySix; 11-10-20 at 03:02 PM. Reason: always fixin' links
11-10-20, 03:05 PM
#86
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For an even more BMX vibe, I'd be looking for a used Cannondale Hooligan. They're awesome. SOme have external gears, some are singlespeed, and some have 3 (5?) IGH.
https://www.google.com/search?q=cann...t=opera&hs=OKe
https://www.google.com/search?q=cann...t=opera&hs=OKe
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11-10-20, 03:15 PM
#88
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Interesting OP because I'm literally just taking a break from putting my first bike together (my wheel is rubbing against the disc pads, so if anyone can help me out with that I'd greatly appreciate it!)
I have many of the same questions you pose. I live in AZ where I swim in the summer because it's unimaginably hot and was looking for a winter activity other than hiking. I hate treadmills, running, or even walking. I thought I might enjoy some of the very things you mentioned that you now say does nothing for you. Really hope I'm different. I love fresh air and hoping that adding a little speed makes biking more fun than running for me. There are also tons of trails and bike paths to explore where I live. Otherwise, your post is utterly depressing for someone who's been totally amped to go on their first
Now if I can just get the front wheel to stop rubbing..
I have many of the same questions you pose. I live in AZ where I swim in the summer because it's unimaginably hot and was looking for a winter activity other than hiking. I hate treadmills, running, or even walking. I thought I might enjoy some of the very things you mentioned that you now say does nothing for you. Really hope I'm different. I love fresh air and hoping that adding a little speed makes biking more fun than running for me. There are also tons of trails and bike paths to explore where I live. Otherwise, your post is utterly depressing for someone who's been totally amped to go on their first
Now if I can just get the front wheel to stop rubbing..
11-10-20, 03:23 PM
#89
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I have many of the same questions you pose. I live in AZ where I swim in the summer because it's unimaginably hot and was looking for a winter activity other than hiking. I hate treadmills, running, or even walking. I thought I might enjoy some of the very things you mentioned that you now say does nothing for you. Really hope I'm different. I love fresh air and hoping that adding a little speed makes biking more fun than running for me. There are also tons of trails and bike paths to explore where I live. Otherwise, your post is utterly depressing for someone who's been totally amped to go on their first
11-10-20, 03:31 PM
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It's easier to show you than explain in writing, but I bet there is some YT video of it out there.
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11-10-20, 03:40 PM
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11-10-20, 03:42 PM
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11-10-20, 03:46 PM
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So I have been riding 8-10 miles for almost 3 weeks now, almost every day. I will be going to every other day primarily due to elbow pain issues, as well as thigh soreness. But I digress. In all honesty, there is nothing I enjoy all that much about it. I want to quit the first couple of miles almost every single time. Somehow, I've manage to always complete the predetermined route, usually with a bit of tiredness.
I thought I'd enjoy the scenery of streets and trails I've never seen before. Nope. I thought I enjoy getting out a lot more having been shuttered in during the pandemic. Not so much. And I genuinely hate with a passion every overpass and underpass that I have to go through. But even having said all that, I have a strong compulsion to keep going every single time and especially before the ride begins. I've never cut off a ride earlier than I planned. I feel forced to ride before the journey begins so it's certainly not a lack of motivation problem. Which is a bit unusual because knowing myself I could have easily given up for good after the first few days/a week.
I don't have any plans to quit any time soon. I'm not sure if I do it for the fitness. I think definitely to some extent. I don't think I do it just to play with the shiny new toy. So I guess all that is background for should I expect to get to a place where I like it more? Would a much better bike make it more enjoyable? I currently ride a 3 speed entry level bike. I think enjoy it for the most part but don't have a comparative basis.
I thought I'd enjoy the scenery of streets and trails I've never seen before. Nope. I thought I enjoy getting out a lot more having been shuttered in during the pandemic. Not so much. And I genuinely hate with a passion every overpass and underpass that I have to go through. But even having said all that, I have a strong compulsion to keep going every single time and especially before the ride begins. I've never cut off a ride earlier than I planned. I feel forced to ride before the journey begins so it's certainly not a lack of motivation problem. Which is a bit unusual because knowing myself I could have easily given up for good after the first few days/a week.
I don't have any plans to quit any time soon. I'm not sure if I do it for the fitness. I think definitely to some extent. I don't think I do it just to play with the shiny new toy. So I guess all that is background for should I expect to get to a place where I like it more? Would a much better bike make it more enjoyable? I currently ride a 3 speed entry level bike. I think enjoy it for the most part but don't have a comparative basis.
All of this is to say, life's too short to engage in a hobby that doesn't bring you joy. If it's just the pain that bothers you, then try bike fit adjustments. But if you don't find it enjoyable and satisfying in its own right, maybe find another hobby.
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11-10-20, 04:14 PM
#95
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This is what I'm thinking. When I started riding it was on a heavy Walmart mountain bike which didn't exactly fit me correctly. When I bought a skinny tire bike which actually fit me it was like the difference between night and day. Riding wasn't a chore any more, it was a heck of a lot more fun.
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11-10-20, 05:47 PM
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11-10-20, 06:00 PM
#98
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Interesting OP because I'm literally just taking a break from putting my first bike together (my wheel is rubbing against the disc pads, so if anyone can help me out with that I'd greatly appreciate it!)
I have many of the same questions you pose. I live in AZ where I swim in the summer because it's unimaginably hot and was looking for a winter activity other than hiking. I hate treadmills, running, or even walking. I thought I might enjoy some of the very things you mentioned that you now say does nothing for you. Really hope I'm different. I love fresh air and hoping that adding a little speed makes biking more fun than running for me. There are also tons of trails and bike paths to explore where I live. Otherwise, your post is utterly depressing for someone who's been totally amped to go on their first
Now if I can just get the front wheel to stop rubbing..
I have many of the same questions you pose. I live in AZ where I swim in the summer because it's unimaginably hot and was looking for a winter activity other than hiking. I hate treadmills, running, or even walking. I thought I might enjoy some of the very things you mentioned that you now say does nothing for you. Really hope I'm different. I love fresh air and hoping that adding a little speed makes biking more fun than running for me. There are also tons of trails and bike paths to explore where I live. Otherwise, your post is utterly depressing for someone who's been totally amped to go on their first
Now if I can just get the front wheel to stop rubbing..
So far as I know there are good online tutorials about adjusting disc brakes. All I can really suggest is that there is no rule for how long it will take to get over your muscles getting used to a new activity, so be patient with yourself.
11-10-20, 06:27 PM
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