Branson, a committed mountain biker, recently found herself reluctantly delving into the world of road biking. Despite identifying firmly as a mountain enthusiast, she admitted to owning a road bike primarily for rest days and recovery from injuries. She humorously mentioned the idea of using it for lunch outings, albeit with little intention to do so.
Expressing deep affection for singletrack trails and the thrill of uphill climbs, Branson conceded a respectful nod to road biking as a sport but confessed her lack of enthusiasm for riding alongside traffic in tight spandex. A recent injury sustained near her home had her undergoing physical therapy, prompting a temporary halt to her beloved mountain biking adventures.
Facing limited options due to increased work commitments and therapeutic needs, Branson reluctantly dusted off her old road bike, recently tuned for action. She humorously recounted upgrading to a lighter road bike from a friend, highlighting its technological advancement despite its age.
Branson’s return to road biking took her on a journey to Maroon Bells, a familiar route she hadn’t tackled in years. Despite starting late and enduring the mid-July heat, she navigated the bike path with renewed familiarity, encountering fellow cyclists along the way. Her trip, however, hit a snag upon arrival, as recent policy changes restricted bikes from certain areas, leading to an unexpected confrontation.
Reflecting on the incident with wry humor, Branson described the unexpected clash with a local elder and the subsequent awkwardness, emphasizing the sometimes tense relationship between road bikers and other trail users. Despite the setback, her descent back home provided a serene conclusion to the day, reaffirming her love for early morning outdoor excursions.
Ultimately, Branson’s experience underscored her preference for the tranquility of mountain biking, even as she acknowledged the occasional necessity of road biking for fitness and recovery. As she concluded her adventure, Branson hinted at future rides on her newly acquired road bike, albeit with a hint of reluctance.
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