It all started with my 10 year anniversary bonus.
I had been lusting for a new frame for some time, but I was content to just enjoy the new fork for a while. The bonus changed all that in a heartbeat.
Thursday was the day of purchase which, as many of you know, was not an easy decision for me. After about an hour at SVB I finally make my choice (with some help) and anticipate the pick up on Saturday.
Due to the Easter weekend I have no time to ride Saturday or Sunday being committed to family functions and church and all the things associated for the Irish Italian Catholic that I am. Curse my heritage, doesn't it know I have a brand new Heckler waiting at home to be unleashed.
Finally, Monday arrives and I am filled with excitement. Salisbury will be the backdrop for the Maiden Voyage.
It's cool out, but not cold. It's sunny with a gentle breeze. The Liquid Blue frame glistens happily as I gear up. It is as if Beowulf (that's what I call it, wikipedia it!) is eager to conquer all and to please it's King.
We set out with the energy of 30 riders and it only takes a short climb up to the Orange trail from the parking lot at St. Luke's to notice the dream beneath me. Beowulf powers up with no hesitation almost laughing at the earth. It's gonna be a good morning.
Lower Orange was exhilerating at the speeds we reached. Lower Red, "please, challenge me already" Beowulf taunts. Climb up to the ridge...silly sweet. Beowulf mocks the earth with it's handling in the switchbacks and tight turns. Time for the big test, the Boulder Trail. I have been mentally preparing and anticipating this section since the parking lot.
In the past the VT I used to go to battle with was adequate, but was never able to complete the task without some sort of flaws like a tiny dab to regain balance or stopping to regroup after being bounced off line.
Beowulf barrelled in without fear and without hesitation. I decide to follow with equal aggression. One by one we slay the menacing granite, flowing and charging. NO DABS, NO STOPS.
Never before have I felt the surge of adrenaline that accompanies the taste of victory. (well maybe once during my soccer days, but that's different)
The remainder of the ride was pure bliss, because now I knew that my life was going to be different aboard this warrior, this hero of a bike. I rode 9 miles and needed more. Curse the life I live with schedules and responsibilities, I just want to ride, I want to go to battle, I want to evolve.