Bike 'brothers'

It's pretty much a given that most things in life are more enjoyable with other people. Going for a walk. Taking in a movie. Sharing a dessert. Attending a concert. Blasting off on a vacation trip. Discovering a new restaurant. Having a cup of tea. Or even a beer.

And, it goes without saying, topping my "doing things together" list would be hitting the road or trail for a bicycle ride. Unfortunately, for various reasons, I'm very guilty of not undertaking such a practice on a regular basis. I wish it were otherwise, because cycling solo surely lacks a certain amount of the fun factor.

Vern on his Pinarello.

One of the highlights of May that I failed to mention in last week's posting was having the opportunity to go for a spin with my very good friend, Vern. Years ago, it was a common occurrence, but nowadays he usually rides with his wife, Betsy, on their tandem bike.

Perusing my logbook, I was surprised — actually, almost dumbfounded — to learn that Vern and I hadn't gone for a pedal together since October 31, 2020. So, it was nice finally pairing up.

My friendship with Vern started because of a bicycle. He was one of those people I knew of — in fact, he only lives a couple of blocks away from me — but we never actually met until we both participated in an L.L. Bean bike workshop. At the time, I was preparing for my North Carolina-to-Texas ride in 2002 and, as it turned out, Vern was instrumental in the success of that journey — lining up motel reservations and encouraging me to keep rolling down the road.

Vern and I began joining up for rides, often two to three times per week. I vividly recall that on one of our first rides together, I was on my brand-new Trek road machine. I ended up dropping my chain and didn't get clipped out of my pedals fast enough. Over I went, crashing heavily onto the pavement. I was thinking how embarrassing, this guy isn't going to go cycling with me again.

But we have gone on to ride thousands of miles together. I even rode my first century with Vern, the Fall Frolic here in Maine in 2002. I like riding with him; his pace and style are similar to mine. He's strong on the hills and flat terrain finds him not afraid to stomp on the pedals. And we always have good conversation.

As it happens, we have been out riding twice already this season. Hopefully, there will be many more outings during the remainder of 2023.

I believe I've told you about my Trek tea mug, the one that displays the Wisconsin-based bicycle company's motto of "Ride bikes ... Have fun ... Feel good." Sound advice for everyone, just try to do it with a friend or two whenever there is an opportunity. Stay safe!

Vern cruising along the mighty Kennebec River.