Inspired by cycling friends

When life challenges us

Robert Thorpe, Editor in Chief

It’s been over two months since I rode a bike. To some people, that may not sound too bad. However, when I tell you that it’s because of a life-changing health issue that isn’t too good, then you may understand why it’s important for me to hopefully get riding again at some point in the New Year. In the interim, I’m catching up on reviews, blogs and cycle industry work, in my day job elsewhere, as editor and lead copywriter for global cycling brands. I work at home too, which helps with the current health issues. Basically, without the full details, my bladder will never function properly again, which is tough; and I’ll have to adapt – which I will. What I’ve learned recently, is not only how mentally strong I am, but also who are the true friends to me, and which people constantly inspire me. I need to be inspired right now. I’m going to have some mental challenges ahead.

As cyclists, we tend to fall into different categories. There are the club riders and fun lovers in groups; and then we have those who will often ride alone or with one or two friends. Being a professional writer and having to often stop to take images, it’s always been easier for me to ride either in my own, or with my amazing cousin, Ian; or with another friend, Jim on the mountain bike – or better still, rides with my son, which I cannot wait to be able to do once more by spring. Life will in many respects never be the same, and I will have certain adjustments and restrictions – but I will ride. It’s going to be emotional for me, I know.

I celebrate being 60 next year too and will be visiting the Italian Dolomites and spending time cycling for a few days with close friends. I damn well will be riding as much as I can. When not riding, I’ll rest with my wonderful wife and drink red wine with pasta. We need to enjoy life more and recognise how important it is to be happy. Going through this tough time, I’ve been drawn to one or two people who inspire me. Each has their own story and they’re different and yet similar in those important aspects of character. The similarities are in how real they are; how kind, warm and caring, and how they don’t try to be anything other than their true selves. I like how dedicated they are to simply riding a bike, however tired they are, or however cluttered their lives might be.

All too often, especially on social media, people wear a mask and try to be something opposite to their own reality. It’s as though image is all that matters to them, in a sad and somewhat narcissistic way. However, these few current inspirations simply show themselves and get on with life – especially their lives on two wheels.