My wife just got me a new mountain bike for my birthday, and I’ve been riding all weekend.  It’s been a long time since I rode on the trails.  My old bike was 19 years old, and I didn’t trust it beyond a mile or two from my house.

She will be missed. I still can't believe I got this bike when I was 11!

My new bike is a Trek 4300, and we got it at Pedal Power in Middletown, CT.  It’s not a racing bike, but it’s a big step up from my old Trek 800 “Antelope” (I don’t think the new ones carry that nickname).  Here’s my new bike just before entering the Wallingford Land Trust, where I often hike and go trail running.

Ready for my first trail ride.

I guess it's okay to ride here?

It’s been awhile since I’ve been out–probably since high school or college–and I definitely forgot how much fun mountain biking can be.  Here are a few shots of things I am no longer brave/stupid enough to attempt on a bike.

Ah . . . no.

I can barely walk up this hill, let alone ride it!

I definitely forgot how the fatigue of riding can sneak up on you; there were a few times where I was focusing on a climb (or just staying on the bike) when I was suddenly winded.  I also forgot how beautiful it can be to get out and ride–definitely worth stopping for a few pictures!

This field leads up to a farm.

Pretty. Inviting.

I saw a deer just before I stopped at this waterfall!

Riding is a lot of fun, and I’m glad to be back at it.  Going over the trails at speed, you have to be aware of everything beneath the bike and all that’s around you.  It’s very good training for agility, timing, and reflexes for martial arts!  Here are a few links to find rides in Connecticut.  I hope to see you out there!

Bike Rag

Crankfire

Do you know if any other good links or rides?  Let us know, and enjoy the rest of the long weekend.