EVER since the GranFondo Whistler came about, I've noticed more and more people going gaga over road biking!
This is amazing, awesome and inspiring.
I've logged more than 20 years of riding on the road, up endless hills, down magical descents and even during some rainstorms that chilled me to the bone. While some were more challenging than others, every one of those kilometres has truly been amazing.
A road bike is fast, smooth and it makes you feel well, super!
Since I stopped racing five years ago, I pretty much hung up my road bike in favour of more quiet off-road destinations away from busy roads and cars. Sure, I missed it, but sometimes in life you need to take a break from things.
This year however, Marin sent me a swanky new Stelvio Carbon Road bike equipped with the latest Shimano Electronic Di2 shifting that just oozes coolness.
The moment I pulled it from the box I was in love and I couldn't wait to take it for its maiden voyage.
The day turned out to be a gorgeous one. A Sunday morning, Kim and I were headed up to Squamish to go trials dirt biking. As soon as I opened my eyes and saw the bright sunlight creeping through our curtains I knew how I was going to get there.
Once the van and bikes were loaded, I filled my water bottles, grabbed a PowerBar and some Girl Guide cookies and sped off into the crisp morning air on my new steed.
Unfortunately, my warmup was the 29th Street hill. I grabbed for the easy gears and soon I was cruising down the other side and onto the highway towards Whistler.
The magic of this ride continued to unfold and as I rounded towards Horseshoe Bay, I was greeted with the most incredible view of the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound.
The road was quiet and the morning sun warmed the air as I nestled into a perfect pace. My bike and I danced up the hills and after each ascent I was rewarded with a flowy decent where I just spun and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery.
Soon I was near Britannia and the long hills that came before and after the town were a time to spin on an easy gear and I focused on my breathing and technique. I have always loved climbing and there is something special when doing it on a road bike, it just seems naturally good for your body.
Once past Murrin Park, the long descents into Squamish brought a smile to my face, especially since I knew Kim would be there to greet me with a giant cookie, chai latte and her beautiful smile!
We spent the rest of the afternoon riding slick rock and loam on our trials dirt bikes with great friends in Crumpit Woods.
Adventurer Dave Norona hopes you get out and enjoy our beautiful backyard by bike, and remember to share the road with all cyclists! His escapades are supported by Marin Bikes, Columbia Sportswear and Comor Sports.
