Love at First Sight

It had been ten years and I was still recovering from a bad relationship.  For a long time, I was not even sure that I would want to give it another try.  However, this year, I decided to get over my fear and give love a chance.  And then, I met her...yes, HER....  I was reluctant at first, but I was encouraged to give it a shot. 

Meet my 2011 Trek Madone 3.1 WSD Womens Road Bike.

As a child, a new bike was the biggest treat.  It was the big gift you got for a momentous birthday.  It meant you were a big kid when you got to move up to the bigger bike.  It brought a sense of freedom and independence.  I would spin my wheels as fast as I could so I could come tearing down a hill as if it was my own personal roller coaster. 
But then, as a poor adult just having graduated from college, I "splurged" on a cheap mountain bike.  It made my quads ache from the inefficient pedaling, my hands hurt from the vibration, and my frustration grow because riding just no fun.

So, when it was time to purchase a bike to get me through this new stage of triathlons, I went ahead and sprung out for a full carbon performance bike.  I didn't mean to.  I had originally budgeted for half the cost and planned to get a decent aluminum bike.  But when I took her out for a test spin...  Drool...  LOVE.

I instantly LOVED riding again!

I noticed how smooth of a ride I had.  She was amazingly responsive when I took her quickly around tight turns.  In addition, when I had to climb a hill, it was no big deal.  And lastly, I was comfortable. 

The Madone 3.1 is the newest entry-level carbon bike by Trek.  The geometry of the bike is set that it's between "comfortable" and "aggressive."  The Shimano 105 groupset comes standard on the bike and is very well received for beginner to intermediate riders.  The cables in the front of the handlebars were wrapped in nice and tightly compared to some of the other bikes.  In addition, it was offered in a women-specific design, which I took advantage of because of my proportions (long legs, short torso).

I wanted to make sure that I was getting a bike that I wouldn't outgrow too soon considering the chance that I am eyeing a potential Ironman sometime in my future.  On other words, this may be a serious lifestyle change.  For all this, I think I got the best bang for my buck.  And best yet, unlike swimming, I am looking forward to my next bike ride.