know, I know—everyone is likely tired of hearing about my cycling collision. But the truth is, if it weren’t for that moment back in November, I wouldn't be sitting here with a new bike. My old one is only three years old and perfectly repairable, so why the upgrade?
It comes down to a bit of a stalemate. While I’m currently seeking redress from the driver, I’m not in a position to front the repair costs myself. However, I could manage a small, tax-free monthly payment. Enter the Cycle to Work scheme—and my unexpected new arrival.
It turned up the day after Boxing Day; I’d actually been expecting it around the New Year, so the early delivery was a pleasant surprise. The real issue was the frame. Contrary to the website description, it lacked eyelets on the seat stays for a rack, so I had to scramble to source an adapter.
After swapping the tyres for something more robust and puncture-resistant, I spent some time sorting the tech. I’ll be riding without the rear radar I’ve relied on for 15 years, and I’m still hoping to find an old camera to replace the one lost in the crash. With everything finally assembled, I was ready for the inaugural ride—I just hoped my back was up to the task.
The night before, it snowed—though only for a few minutes. As I lay in bed with my back screaming at me, I couldn't help but wonder: was the universe trying to tell me something?
When morning came, it was pitch black and the thermometer had dropped to a biting 1°C (with a feels like temperatureof -2°C). I was filled with doubt. I gave serious thought to cancelling. Was it too cold? Would my back hold up? I was completely undecided until the very last minute... and then, suddenly, I wasn't.
I set off gingerly into the freezing darkness, heading towards the neighbouring city and my workplace. My anxiety was high; every time a vehicle passed, I felt flashes of that night two months ago. I kept a steady pace, finding that the off-road sections were actually fun and—to my relief—my back felt fine despite the chill.
From the halfway point, the route begins a steady climb. Having not ridden for two months, and having fully enjoyed the excesses of the festive period, I questioned if I could manage the ascent. Thankfully, my legs still had it in them. I arrived at work on time and, more importantly, without incident.
The ride home was shadowed by similar fears, but I pushed through. When I finally pulled up to my front door, I couldn't help myself—I punched the air.
Getting back on the saddle felt like more than just a commute; it was a personal test of the path I’m travelling. My spiritual side gave me the resilience required to face a freezing morning, and those echoes of a past collision are exactly what fuels me.
If you appreciate the atmosphere of the northern landscape and the grit of the winter months, you'll find those same Norse echoes in my webcomic, Northman.
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Good for you! You are a true road warrior!
ReplyDeleteAt the moment I don't feel it but every day I'm hoping will be better.
DeleteDear friend, I echo Debra's comment!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much.
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