Learning Curve Benefits

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

The care that you take for the fitting
Of clothing in which you’ll be sitting,
May take you some time.
So, find what is fine,
Then you can keep riding, not quitting.

What “learning curve” benefits are you enjoying?

Here in Northfield, MN,
Currently pedaling on a stationary bike,
Reading as I spin through digital miles,
I recall 25 years ago.

Then preparing / training to bike
Across U.S. southern bike route, CA -> FL,
I was seated on my bike trainer-rig,
Spinning the wheels,
Listening on tape,
To “Secret Life of Bees.”

First time ever on a long trip,
My preparation included
What-you-wear-while-riding.

First introduction to bike-specific clothing,
I was aghast at the cost!

I’m not going to add
More expense to this adventure!
I will make my own!

Primary feature of bike shorts/pants:
A thick padded crotch area.
Surely, I could replicate that.

I took a pair of old sweatpants,
Cut off lower legs, made them into a pad,
Sewed pad into crotch of the sweatpants.

Now I had padded shorts!
Yes, it did look like I was wearing diaper —
Bulky, bulging, ill-fitting.
Still, padded nevertheless.

Fortunately, trusted friend, Carla said,
“Lin, you may not understand why—
And you can be sure your ride will be
More efficient, more comfortable with
BIKE SHORTS, designed for the task.”

I gave in, bought the specific-sport designed,
Unforgivingly-Form-Fitting bike shorts.
At the end of each bike day, I think …
“Thank you, Carla!”

I wore that pair of shorts every day
60 consecutive days.
Another attribute of real bike shorts —
They dry incredibly fast after a wash.

I’ve learned lots over the years,
Big essentials,
Little tweaks.
Still on the learning curve;
I imagine being here forever.

Hugs,
Lin