Cycling, (zaibatsu), 01/09/2019
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You thought my bike was in the garage rusting, didn't you?
While I haven't become a cyclist, I haven't forgotten my
little two-wheeled friend either. Thankfully, the winter
weather here in Missouri seems to be chaotic- which means
there are plenty of nice days interspersed with the cold
ones.
This week, on one of those nicer days, I decided to help my
youngest (10) get more comfortable with riding on the road.
He' small, and the idea terrifies him a bit, so we decided
on a little trip to the gas station together, where we could
buy a treat. He was still hesitant when we were getting
ready, so I told him we'd just ride over to the main road
and decide what to do from there.
We got our helmets on and made our way. At the main road, I
offered two options: we could ride across the road and join
the traffic, keeping to the right (we did go over other
issues before we left); or, we could walk our bikes on the
shoulder until we got to the sidewalk, then ride the
sidewalk to the gas station.
He just wasn't ready for the road yet. The sidewalk was a
good step, as it is on a busy-ish road, and gets him a
little used to the concept. We walked to where the sidewalk
starts, and got going.
Boom!
The poor little guy was too nervous, and cut the corner too
sharp when entering the sidewalk. The curb was high at that
particular entrance, and he hit it hard. Luckily, he didn't
fall off the bike, but he was a bit shaken. We talked it
over for a minute while he calmed down, then continued to
the gas station were we bought some Takis (he likes those
things) and some sport drink. We locked our bikes up while
we were inside, another first for him (he normally rides
around the neighborhood.)
Our youngest also happens to be the one most interested in
freedom of movement. He likes to walk to the store with me
or his siblings. He likes to be able to get around on his
own. He sees the value in it (I can't even get my 16yo
daughter to study for her license, on the other hand.) It
was fun, and I hope to make more trips with him. Eventually,
we'll get on the road as well.
