The Cycling Bug.

I have known many cyclists who, after a long break from cyclists, get drawn back into the sport. Sometimes the gap is a few years, sometimes it can be a few decades. But, there is a mysterious pull for many former cyclists to get back into cycling. Personally, I had a long lay off, from the age of 21 to 26. It was precipitated by illness and then a knee injury. It is very frustrating to be unable to ride due to illness. But, when you finally get back into cycling you appreciate it a lot more.

There have also been times when cycling felt like an all consuming passion. In my second season of racing I was highly motivated; even when I was not training or racing I was thinking about cycling. -  how to get better equipment, how to get better times, reading training manuals. - Whatever, I did I couldn’t get enough cycling.

At the moment, I am enjoying cycling without becoming overly fanatical. I like training, but, don’t go out if it is raining. I enjoy racing, but generally prefer to do local races, which don’t involve a long drive.

However, if it is a good day, my first thoughts are - Will I be able to go cycling today? If I have to go to work, I can’t help but wish for early retirement.

There is some attraction of cycling that is hard to put the finger on. Maybe it is the motion of pedalling and speed of self propulsion. When you have been cycling along time, you can also feel a oneness with the bike; it is like the bike has become an extension of the body.