I started riding when I was 14. At the time I was just a freaky fat kid on a bike. I dont' even remember why I got the idea that it would be a good idea to ride my bike all over the Portland (OR) metro area. After a while, it just became part of what I am.

Riding a bike has given me hypothermia twice, a couple of broken ribs, a spiral fracture in my left leg and a lot of time to wonder about why I ride.

But, I've also had a lot of time for introspection. I've ridden up and down several mountain passes screaming like a hyperactive adrenaline junkie. I've raced motorcycles through the streets of Nice and I've had a chance to just slow down and see the world at my own pace.

I hope it's also given me a fighting chance at the diabetes and aortic aneurisms that have killed or nearly killed a few men in my family.

Don't try to love riding bikes. It won't work. The bike is just a means of getting from one point to another. Try savoring the bike ride and all the things you see and experience while you ride.

And read Josie Dew.