Scott Martin

We're slouching toward the dog days of the cycling season here in the northern hemisphere, where getting up at 3 a.m. and driving 4 hours to a race or century doesn't seem quite as frolicsome as it did back in May.

In fact, just looking at a bike right now can make you break into a rash and start sobbing uncontrollably -- though the same can happen with exposure to the U.S. political scene.

Regardless, there are many trusted ways to beat bicycle burnout, some of which actually work. To help you determine what's right for you, I analyzed the pros and cons of these toasted chestnuts:

Buy a New Bicycle
Pro: Nothing spells motivation like a 13-pound carbon wonderbike.

Con: Divorce costs more. Way, way more.

Ride Your Favorite Routes Backward
Pro: Scenery, topography and everything else seem fresh. Mean dog has to cross an extra lane to bite you.

Con: It is very difficult to ride a bicycle backward.

Take Time Off
Pro: Recharges batteries, enables sore muscles and niggling injuries to heal, helps you recall first names of spouse and kids.

Con: Smart-mouth riding partner who never takes time off.

Go Off-Road
Pro: Explore new terrain, work on different skills, wear shorts that do not make people laugh at you.

Con: Must get tattoo(s), learn difference between "pre-load" and "damping," break multiple body parts.

Do Different Sports
Pro: Cross-training keeps you fit, builds neglected muscles, introduces you to new friends.

Con: You got into cycling because you have no social skills or hand-eye coordination, remember ?

une page mise en archives par

Consultez notre ENCYCLOPÉDIE sportive