The summer of 1976, I bought this new Motobecane Super Mirage. Since that day, it has been my primary bicycle. Sure, today you can buy much lighter, faster, and more tricked out bikes. I highly doubt you will find one that is more reliable than this bike has been.
It has been my companion on roads in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and California. For two years when I lived in California, it was my only transportation. It is possible I will purchase a sleeker, lighter bike some day, but I will have this one till the day it dies or I do. I’m guessing it will out last me.
Admittedly, there have been years when I didn’t ride as much. Life just kind of got in the way. Now, this bike is an important part of my new healthy life style.
In early May I had Covid. It wasn’t too terrible. The worst part was having a cough that didn’t let me sleep for three nights in a row. I had a video conference with my doctor. He said that my two risk factors were my age, and my weight. Well, I can not do anything about my age. I will 65 in August. As far as I know it beats the alternative. I think that I’m a pretty healthy person. I don’t have any major issues.
Back to what my doctor said. My weight? First of all, I’m 6’ 4” tall. I can carry more weight than the average person. I think that those of you who know me, probably would not have considered me to be overweight. In fact most of my life, I have been skinny. I certainly was in my younger years. Looking at the charts, my ideal weight is between 195 and 205. After Covid, I was at 220.
I decided to get healthier. At first, I tried some working out on my own, and was having some good progress, but I felt like I could do more. I broke down, and purchased an Apple Watch. This device has been a life changer for me. It tracks so many of my health aspects, and helps me keep on track. I purchased some apps that I’ve really liked. The apps I’m using the most are BetterMe, Kettlebell, and Cyclemeter.
BetterMe helps me track my exercise, eating habits, water intake, sleep, and some other good things. Kettlebell is simply some workouts with kettlebells. Cyclemeter tracks my bike riding.
As of today, I’m at 207.5. My goal is 200. I do believe I can reach that.
Back to my Motobecane. I could not even tell you how many miles the two of us have traveled. I’m certain it is in the thousands. Just this month, we have gone over 150 miles. Today alone, we did 30 miles, and had a top speed of just over 30 mph. I’m certain younger legs could push it faster. Although, we pass far more bikes, than bikes that pass us. We even usually pass those silly electric bikes.
My advice to you, get out there and move. Life is too short to not take care of your body.
What a special relationship you have with your bike! I hope you will never have to sell or stop using your bike because of its golden age. Thanks for reminding us all to get our bodies moving and to prioritize our health.
Wonderful post, Rick!