Fall Sonoma rides

This weekend, did two leisurely rides with my girlfriend in Sonoma County. Although my gf has done a few triathlons, she doesn't ride as much as myself, so when we do rides I try to find a reasonable route. My solution: I ride a vintage touring bike with pannier bags. It's a good compromise. We enjoy the day and I get my fill as far as riding with my handicapped loaded touring bike. I set her up with a very nice vintage Bridgestone RB-1 with a Nitto riser stem that's easier on her back as far as riding position.

The best rides are those you discover

I've had a few exceptional rides this year I hadn't done before, that when I did were a discovery. They were rides that I'd thought about, checked the general route and the terrain, but didn't really know what it would be like. On rides like this, I've been the most motivated. Although, I come prepared on these rides I often start and say to myself, "can I do this?", "will the weather be ok?". When you do the ride and it all works out, it is an awesome experience.

Get out of your environment and take rides you wouldn't normally do, the rewards and experience are great.