Commute Transformation

It started two years ago. I noticed a guy riding his bike east on 133 in Rowley, MA. Given we both travel opposite ways, at about the same time, over a 6 mile stretch, I'm bound to see him a lot. Given cycling is a hobby of mine naturaly I started paying attention.

What i noticed early on was how out of his element he seemed. His atire, bike and handling were all in a constant state of struggle and it reaked of a chore to move forward. I would wonder why he was communing (the bags were a give away) on a bike. The thinking got deeper when i saw him in inclement weather, was it a goal, a dare, a bet, or maybe loss of license or change income? The only thing I did know was his dedication.

Over the months the kinks worked their way out, his outfit became more condusive to the ride. His fit, gate or handeling of the bike went from awkard to pushing the limites of the bike, and then one day he was on an actual road bike. His clothing was better but you could tell his body had changed and he was putting a lot of power into his effort.

Checking out his progress has be come part of my subconscious daily check list, what would be different today?

Well today, the butterfly spread it's wings. This morning he had a full on matching kit (bike shorts, shirt, etc) and he was hammering the peddles. It was a pretty cool site. Now it's just a matter of time before he gets a bike upgrade.