Hooked on Bike Riding

At the end of February this year, I bought a new bicycle. It is black crossbike made by Giant. In New Zealand I had a mountain bike. When I came to Japan this time I needed a bike to ride to my schools. I bought a one-speed beach cruiser style bike. It is very comfortable to ride.

However, I always wanted to ride more than just a few kilometers in town. So, finally this year I decided to buy a new bike. I decided to ride to work everyday to save money and get in shape. After I started riding my new bike, I was invited by hillclimb champion Naokki to come along to a team ride on Saturday mornings.

The first team ride was tough. I had never been so fast on a bike before. The others soon disappeared far ahead of me. Luckily, one other rider stayed with me and showed me the way back. Although that first team ride was hard work, I had a great time. Now each Saturday I try my best to stay with the others.

I also started looking for longer routes to get to my office, as well as riding at lunchtimes with another company worker. Now I am hooked on bike riding and travel about 300km a week. In September, I am going to take part in the Suzuka 8hour Enduro, so I need to keep training even though it is getting hot and sticky these days. If you see me on the road, please wave or give me some ice.

Vocabulary

hooked on - like to do something very much; addicted to; crazy about

crossbike - mountain bike frame with flat style handlebar, but has thinner tires for street riding

get in shape - do exercise to become healthy and/or lose weight

route - a way to get from one place to another

take part in - join; participate in

sticky - humid weather; your clothes stick to your body