the cycling symphony

this morning's ride was a symphony of cycling in three movements.

the first movement was slow and somber. the rhythmic spinning of the cranks took the rider into the dark. the clash of wind against cyclist, the clicking of the gears, the bump-bump of the seems in the road created a sense of suspense. the clouds overheaded hinted at a brewing storm which never fully developed. this movement, the longest of the three, covered 18.15 miles and lasted 1:12:10.

movement two had a lighter feel too it, a hint of hope. you could almost sun rising over the horizon as the rider tapped out the beat. the feeling was still a bit cold and the wind continued its assault, but even the least astute observer could sense the difference. this movement covered 6.35 miles and lasted 23:54.

the third and final movement was full of brightness and light. it was a swirling dervish. the rider danced on the pedals in the warmth of a brand new day. the speed of the spinning wheels created a sense of anticipation, of accomplishment, of victory. the brooding beginning of the symphony was forgotten as the wind was conquered and the miles engulfed. this final movement covered 8.34 miles in 30:52. the symphony in its entirety spanned 32.84 miles and was completed in 2:06:56. (32.84 miles @ 15.5mph)