Last night I finally took the opportunity to take my freshly tuned bike out for a real ride, as opposed to a quick little jaunt around the block. In Lawrence, there’s a several stage bike/walking trail that goes from behind the movie theaters on the south edge of town out to Clinton Lake and beyond. The first stage is a little over 5 miles. I wasn’t sure if I could, given how long it’s been since I rode any distance at all, but I made it the entire way there and back again for something between 10 and 11 miles. I was winded, but I wasn’t anywhere near exhausted. It really felt great!

I hope I can find some decent smoothe trails after I move. I’m thinking, at least for now, plans for a Cannondale are on the back burner. I have appliances to buy, insurance to set up, and a ton of little things that add up to deal with for the new house. I’ll deal with my old Giant for the time being. She’s done me right so far, and I’m sure I can stretch her for a few more miles.