After I ran around the Chatt State parking lot enough to feel comfortable, confirming that this was, indeed, the starter bike for me, David and I decided to head over to the local Cycle Gear shop. David had brought his old helmet for my test ride, but, now I was going need my own helmet and some other protective gear. The only place left to ride now was… gulp, out on the road!!
It seems like anytime you learn something new, there are all these additional, tangential arenas you are required to navigate. This can also cause a great deal of stress. But, as you’ve done with everything so far, you simply game the situation in your favor. You find a way to sneak up on it!
For me it was having to go into the shop and face the fact that I know nothing about what it is that I need to be able to ride out on the open road, to protect myself well.
Fortunately, Christian, the super-nice, super-helpful, super-experienced guy working there (he rides his bike every day of the year!!), helped me understand a lot of the considerations associated with various pieces of clothing, helped guide my choices, all while taking my financial considerations into account.
I learned about the different rating organizations for the safety of helmets, protective armor in jackets, pants and gloves, the different types of materials, such as leather and fabrics and their tradeoffs in comfort and protection, and so, so much more!
Came home with a new helmet, jacket and gloves, a great start to suiting up for my next stretch goal… taking a little ride out on the streets.
Stretch: That even things that you think won’t be stressful, can be – eg navigating a store, because it contains all sorts of things that you know you know nothing about.
Lessons: It’s helpful to have someone go with you that can help ease the transition. Also, look for a sales associate who is friendly and knowledgeable, so that you have someone on your side as you’re learning new distinctions, in this case about clothing and gear.
Smarter-Not-Harder U 