GIVE YOUR BIKE THE LOVE IT DESERVES

IT WASN'T THE FIRST OR THE LAST TIME A BIKE left me stranded. At this point in my life, it's not about having "the legs" or endurance to sustain a ride, event, or race-but rather a transparent awareness of accepting what I have and who I am.

- GABE ORTIZ

Whether you have a carbon or steel frame, a mechanical or electronic drivetrain, understanding and accepting your bike's limitations are the keys to overcoming challenges.

Do I stop my ride and abandon my pursuit of joy temporarily because my bike's chain is broken and my spokes are dangling by the hub? Nope, that ain't me. Recognizing, respecting, and honoring the relationship you have with your bike is a process of growth, work, and commitment that will take you further than you can imagine.

On the physical side of riding, I recognize I will never manage the stress of being shoulder to shoulder in a crit. Nevertheless, I do it, understanding there are lessons to be learned and joys worth fighting to discover. The only way out is through, when it comes to endurance rides, when you're at mile 31 of 50, drained and confused from your unrelenting dedication to pursue the goal. I can understand the physical limitations, but it hurts when you realize your bike lets you down as a result of stubborn neglect or your inability to change the parts necessary to function in unison with it.