Cycling

Recently I went to East Coast Park with some friends for cycling.

In retrospective - Do you still remember one of the many falls you had when you were still learning how to ride a bicycle? And that awesome feeling - when you got it right finally - the paddling, the speed and the perfect balance? I cycled a lot throughout my life, its something I cannot forget ... and moreover Its something I enjoy. Cycling is a lifelong skill.

Bikes here are high tech, with multiple gears both in front and rear and shock absorbers. The track for bicycles is well laid, well lit and separated from the track for walking and roller skating. Decent bicycles can be rented for as low as 4 SGD per hour.

Almost 40 km of cycling with three 5 min stops, pushes your limit. Its truly a test of mental and physical stamina. I observed the power of will playing a crucial role to keep the ball rolling. This applies to other sports also like marathon etc. This reminds me of the movie Run Fatboy Run. While cycling, I clearly understood what they meant by "hitting the wall". Its so true - and it feels really good to break through the "wall" and keep going.

Its amazing to see families, friends, kids and youths taking part in a healthy and fun activity of cycling. You also encounter - runners, skaters and other fellow cyclists. On the way you enjoy the beautiful beach side, people playing beach volley, groups having BBQ parties, young folks singing and playing guitar.. to old chaps angling with the LED lit tackle, couples lost in the mystique of their love, loners reading book, playing guitar. And of course people you overtake, and people who overtake you. Its a complete package!


My advice:
Choose your bike carefully, check the brakes,adjust the seat, ask for basket if needed. make sure shifting of gears is smooth. Check for air pressure in tubes. Check for bell. Ask for blinking backlight if you plan to cycle after sunset. Ask for helmet if you need one.
Do not carry any bags with you while cycling, sling bags - big NO. Bags with double straps for both shoulders are still bearable. But trust me, slings are demons while cycling.
Wear thick lowers, or wear special inners for cycling. You will need that especially when the seat is trying to make your bottom uncomfortable during long hours of cycling.
Carry a small bottle of lime juice/water.
Take a 5 minute stop every 45 minutes or 1 hour and maintain a healthy speed.
You may carry your iPod with you, but be careful around the crossings.
Be careful of small children and people with roller skates, its best to slow down in these circumstances.



I am looking forward for my next stint. May be a bit more this time, how about 80 km ?