The Road Beckons

As many of you know, I am fond of autumn, and especially of bike trips in the autumn. Granted the days are shorter and cooler, but after the last few weeks of humidity, I am looking forward to cooler temperatures. I’m also eager to see the fall colours. I’ve planned a two week trip to explore the Finger Lakes, and to have a brief glimpse of the Adirondacks. In order to avoid traffic, I’m going to ride the Erie Canal Trail much of the way, including from Buffalo to Rochester, where I will head south to Lake Conesus.

One of the most appealing aspects of this trip is it begins from my own front door, with no need for trains, planes or automobiles to transport me to the start line.

Going to travel a little lighter this year and leave my camping gear at home, opting instead for motels, hotels, and cabins, all of which I have booked in advance. On past trips, I booked as I went along, but this year it gave me peace of mind to reserve in advance. I can always change my plans if necessary, but it makes long days on the bike less stressful knowing there is a nice room and shower awaiting me.

I will be riding my beloved Stigmata, but she has had quite the makeover; thanks to a paint job from VeloColour in Toronto, she is more beautiful than ever. I also had the bike rebuilt by Speed River Cycle in Guelph. With so much wear and tear, the drivetrain, bottom bracket and the brakes needed an overhaul.  Finally, I put on new tires on; the Schwalbe Marathon Mondial tires are the most puncture resilient tires I have ever seen. In essence, it is a new bike, but it feels as comfortable as ever, and the lavender purple makes me so happy.

My goals are as humble as ever: find inner peace, evolve into a laid back person, stop every few minutes to take photos. Well, I might manage to stop for photos, and do I hope to claim some peaceful moments for myself, but perhaps an entire personality makeover is a bit ambitious for a two week trip.

In the days before departure, I’ll continue to fuss over what to pack (lots of layers at this time of year), and on Sunday I am running my first race since covid—the Oakville Half Marathon. Monday will be a recovery day, and I’ll head out Tuesday morning at the first sign of light in the sky.

I am excited and nervous in equal measures, which feels just about right the week before departure.