yes, you should do more of these videos. Talking over footage about riding related stuff, Mental health, gear ratio, camera setup, backpacks, brakes, food, vintage road bikes, whatever, as long as it is riding related. just my 2cts, take care Mr Hotline
I’m 47, going through a messy divorce. I suffer from anxiety and depression and feel I needed something in my life to get my mojo back. Watching your videos Terry inspired me to buy a bike. Thanks man✊🏼.
Please take care of yourself, it will get better soon, I had suicidal thoughts a few years ago, now I'm back on track, new car, new job, I'm so excited!
I always look forward to the next ride.If I let a nice day go by with out getting out on one of my bikes I feel guilty somehow.Sometimes it’s hard to get motivated when it’s cold outside,but I should’nt say that cause I’m the ICE RIDER!🧊🥶❄️Thanks Terry 😎
Couple weeks ago, about halfway into a nice 50km, I just started shouting that I was in joy, like actually inside of joy, completely elated. As my legs continued their eternal rotations, the world and all my problems and worries melted away, every other thing ceased to exist and in that timeless space, it was just me and movement and breath and cadence, expanding n contracting again again.
At around the same time last year I crashed my bike and bruised the bones within both my forearms. I couldn't really use my arms for weeks because the most minute amount of stress lead to severe pain. So I wasn't able to cycle for a solid 4-5 weeks. I usually don't do long distance rides, it's mostly commuting. My girlfriend started complaining about me being aggressive all the time about two weeks into not being able to ride even the shortest distances. That was the very first time I noticed how much of an impact cycling has on my psychology. I really don't need to ride much, but just the effect of my everyday 10 mile commute seems massive.
Last year I broke my hand and as a result I was not able to cycle for about 8 weeks. Other sport activities like running were also not possible. To prevent getting completely mad I ended up doing a lot of hiking at that time.
I call it “Cycle-Therapy”. I have always loved to travel. Particularly on a bike. My happy place is definitely on 2 wheels. A few years ago i went on the best journey of my life when i donated a kidney to my brother. After the transplant we talked excitedly about what we were going to do. He was going to quit his job & go back to school, and I was going to bike around the world. But when he suddenly passed away from an unrelated stroke, I fell into a long funk. I forgot about my bike tour and isolated. Didn’t get out of bed. Had no motivation at all. Gain weight. Felt like total crap mentally & physically. I slowly started coming out of it this past Summer. I kept hearing my brother’s voice telling me to get moving. So i started taking short rides. There is a nice bike path here on Long island to the beach. It’s about 20 miles round trip. 35-50 miles if I did the full loop. It felt good to be on the bike again. I got stronger physically...but mentally I felt a lot better when I was riding. My thoughts could wander. I had positive conversations with my brother as I rode. And started socializing with the other riders i met on the path. Biking definitely saved me. I was heading down a very dark path when i was just laying in bed after my brother passed away. I plan to do some really long tours this Spring/Summer.
Hi Bike Tall, thanks for opening up. You mind if I'd ask you some questions about your story? I'm working on a project that's strongly related to this.
I'm very much into podcasts and this is exactly like that but with a visual to go along with the monlogue that matches it's continuous characteristic. I'm very much interested in seeing more of these kind of videos
I usually stay off the bike for days after my longer rides. When I raced for 5 days non stop I didn't ride for over a month. It's all about the endorphins. If you overdose you'll end up having to stop for a while until the urge to ride comes back. The social aspect of group rides is also important even though I prefer to go solo on my ultra endurance rides. Happy new year. Stay safe and healthy.
Definitely agree with you Terry. There's just something about this form of rolling meditation that we all love so much. Cycling for me has been one of the most transformative force's in my life. It's always the toughest days in the saddle that are the most memorable I think. I live in South Australia and I recall getting caught out in a summer thunderstorm right at the start of a long technical decent. It took every bit of concentration I could muster all the years of riding experience just to get home safe but I did it!!. The thrill I felt at acheiving that, there was no prize no first place as such but it changed me. I was having a tough time at that point in my life and it was like that thunderstorm washed my soul clean. Keep up the great work Terry what you do really makes the days I can't ride easier. Thanks.
Hi Owen, I'm working on a project that coincides with Terry'e video and some of the remarks made, including yours. You mind if I ask you some questions about your story?
So I bought a shitty vintage road bike around mid 2019 and it was some kind of amazing « ah ah ! » moment for me. I’ve been struggling with my mental health since I graduated from high school (around 2010) and while I’m not done with depression yet, commuting by bike has definitely helped me improve that side of things. This and finally taking steps to see a therapist (she’s amazing), are the best decisions I’ve made about my mental health in 2019. I recently got to build a fixed gear bike with an old Gitane Mexico (seriously cool Reynolds 531 vintage steel frame 100% recommended !!) track frame some dude sold me for cheap and it got even more fun. The amazing feeling of getting from point A to point B by using only the strength of my body (which I’ve always deemed as weak) and being able to ride further and longer than I could even imagine... all this on a bike that I built myself... when a year ago I didn’t even know I liked riding bikes... that’s the shit man. Also : endorphines might have a positive effect as as well, which is always a plus. On a more serious note : People, if you feel bad, please, seek the help of a professional and talk about it to your friends and/or family. I promise, it gets better, even though the path to getting better is really winding and involves some suffering at times. Don’t be ashamed of how you feel, tell people. Most of the people around me had no idea, and my first step towards getting better was telling them. If they know and do love you, they will listen. Also : healing from depression is not like the movies show it. You don’t gradually get better and better, it’s work, it can be difficult, sometimes you feel even shittier than before starting the process, but that’s ok, it’s perfectly normal. Take a step back and watch the bigger picture : you are getting better. Sorry that’s a really long comment, I got sidetracked ! I felt like someone may want to read that. Cheers from Paris ! Also Terry : your videos make me want to ride my bike even more. Thank you.
I have an organic brain disorder from a head injury, suffer from fight or flight and seizures. It causes depression too among other things. My wife was diagnosed with stage four metastatic colon cancer three years ago. It’s in her liver now and she is terminal. If I didn’t have my bike, I would not be able to cope. We had to stay in Seattle for radiation treatments. It took two months for the radiation, and I couldn’t ride because I was taking care of her. I sunk so low without my bike. I need that hour a day. The wind in your face, just you and the road/trail. It’s one of the best forms of meditation for me. Thanks for the videos. I think it’s really important to talk about mental health, and how to combat those feelings with exercise, mediation, eating well, and positive habits.
I'm impressed that you were able to take a few months off riding. I started picking it back up about 4-5 years ago and since then I was never able to put it down. Something about it clears my head and always gives me something to look forward to. Even the friends and relationships you make from it are pretty wild. Nothing quite like going out with a few friends on a nice long ride and reminiscing about it after over food. Anyway, this video is a welcome addition and I hope you produce more of them. Keep up the great work!
I was biking to get to work 6 years ago when I stopped partying. It grew and I kept going farther and farther on my rides home. I then got into photography from snapping photos with my phone on rides. I owe changing my life for the better to cycling and the local bike shop for keeping me on two wheels.
I enjoyed your film, and agree with you about the benefits of cycling on mental health. I feel much more relaxed and positive after a cycle ride. The activity relieves my stress. The difficulty is getting out in the middle of winter. I smashed myself up when I hit a patch of ice before Christmas, so now I am reluctant to get out if it is very cold.
My mental health went downhill after losing work from covid, but I've fallen back in love with cycling which has helped me through this whole situation. It's great to get exercise and have a way to clear my mind by just jumping on a bike.
I feel this. When I stop riding, I feel like I lose a piece of myself... I can relate when I rode to Newport. There were hills around every corner, it was cold with a chance of rain, and I had to take the bus back because it took longer than I had planned. It was still something to learn from since I was able to see some amazing sites. I didnt realize how happy I was for doing it till I watched this. You're great Terry!
Yes it happened with me during covid! I got stressed out anxiety attacks whenever I don’t do sports or ride my bike! It really heals my mental health.. and after all its fun!!
I had same very bad times, junk life, food and so on. Thinking finishing my life by myself… Running and Riding have saved me, it has been kind of salvation, i need it to live now. Thanks for all your videos. If a day i go New York hope meet you !
I'd watch a rough cut of this ride, and yes, I enjoyed the visual of the ride with the overdub of your thought stream. I would watch more of your interviews if they were done in this format, maybe take a ride with the person and film it, then show clips while the interview is ongoing, that would be be an interesting format.
Huge love from Jakarta, Indonesia! God bless you Terry, love all your videos. Cause you're the only one who doing this stuff.. at first 20-60 mins just strolling and chasing a bike, just boring. But at second to.. maybe a 30th time right now i saw the video, it is fun, especially when i finally bought my first track bike a year ago. In short, you motivated me to be a healthy person, to be on a bike everyday. U know what, when i got covid and quarantined myself 14 days, not able to riding my bike, almost frustrating me, i was watching wolfbotts' hotline for 5x maybe, almost all cooper ray's video, helps me ease down my frustrations level. THANK YOU TERRY!
You do a great job, Terry! I’m more hyped about riding bikes and traveling after each time I find time to watch one of your videos. I feel it though, life gets in the way, and can take away from our individual passions. Cycling is a form of therapy, and I honestly could use finding a way to start challenging myself to ride more often / commute to work more frequently via bicycle. Anyway, happy New Years! Thank you.
im a programmer. year before last i was doing nothing but programming, alone, in a dark room. it really affected my psyche, i experienced some of things you talked about. i was biking to work here in nyc, but commuting was all i really did. i noticed i enjoyed riding though and figured i needed to balance the mental task of programming with something physical. so started going on rides for fun and in hopes to help my mental health. around the same time my MTB go stolen... a girl at a bike shop recommended i try a fixed gear, so i got one and fell in love. biking seriously helped pull me out of a dark place. wish i had some homies to ride with though. thanks for the video Terry!
FUCK! This is so true. I spent 2 months off the bike recently and felt terrible. I was being a jerk to people, I was eating like crap, and I just didn't like myself. I was amazed at how much cycling affected my mental health. And yeah, put up the whole video please.
I needed this video more than you can imagine. I lost my dad in July and since then I lost my motivation and drive. I haven’t really ridden since he passed and the fog/depression has really crept in and taken a negative toll on my life. My girlfriend has been my biggest supporter and has encouraged me to get back on my bike almost everyday and I just haven’t. Today she made a new suggestion “why don’t you watch that hotline guy you always used to watch maybe that will get you going again”. There was something so simple about that, before if I wasn’t actually riding I would be watching you ride and in a weird way it almost felt one in the same. To get back to the channel today and see this video staring at me almost felt like you had a message for me. I don’t wanna be to corny but I do want to thank you man. Thank you for your honesty and your clarity. Thank you for your vulnerability. This is why we’re all here, and it’s why I’m glad I’m back here. It’s all love brother
I can relate to this video so much right now. I've been struggling really hard mentally. Thank you for putting this out there. I look forward to visiting NYC and doing this trail.
Got knocked off my bike by a taxi couple days ago and hand in a splint for 10 days... 3 days in and already feeling mentally foggy, snappy etc and this vid helped give me some perspective. Huge fan of all your vids, part of a nightly routine for me :)
looking forward to seeing more content like this! I feel like this was done particularly well. The theme your message went very well with the ride that you were on!
Felt the same but today I rewrapped my handlebar tape and out on the bike later today, just a little ride around Liverpool to get my head back in it. It feels the time is right. Happy New Year and thanks for your videos are great, hope to see more in 2020
Terry, I recently broke my foot riding. I've been out of commission for about 6 weeks now. What you described has absolutely happened to me as well. Your videos have definitely been a bright spot in my time off a bike. When you're used to riding every day, even if it's just for a few miles to get to work and back, not having that activity that keeps you happy can be really hard. There are so many things I feel like I miss, but riding is definitely the top of the list.
bro thanks for doing this video and for putting on for cycling overall. i think all of us who love riding bikes have experienced this but maybe not recognized what it was. this is helpful food for thought thanks brother
Love this video. Very pure. Looks like a great place to ride. Great to talk about these things as well. I have a similar experience when I don't ride. Everything slowly starts to go to pieces. Best not to stop!
I really like these type of videos as I find it easier to listen to if I have a visual and I also like the ambient sounds of riding a bike off road. I hope you have had a good new years and I fully understand what you mean by not riding for fun but just enough to get by.
Terry, thanks for this video and yes, this is indeed a thing. I live in Buffalo, which has robust cycling community which I was actively apart of......until I had kids. I have a four and a one year old with a job that's in the suburbs. I love my kids with all my heart yet, this makes riding difficult and it's been three years since I haven't been riding daily which has been one of the most difficult adjustments to deal with mentally and physically. I've gained weight, lost contact with a bunch of friends and become more dependent on pot to reduce anxiety. I am currently working on finding a job closer to home that pays about the same that I can ride to and ditch my car, but it's difficult. When i do have to opportunity to ride, it's pure, unadulterated joy and it's like getting back a limb that you've lost up until that moment.
This is great, and so relatable to many of us I'm sure. I went through very similar circumstances. I'm only at 7:40 of the video right now but I can definitely relate. It is also possible that THAT low point you went through was full out silver lining and needed that disruption as a reminder / maybe you needed a bit of a short break, etc... Anyway, thanks, this is hugely important.
I find that most of my efforts in life end up fruitless and feel Very Unfulfilling because they're So unlikely to produce a desirable result. I believe that's why most people distract themselves with games, entertainment, drugs, vices, etc. However .... riding my bike feels So Right: obstructions can be overcome because problems are Always solvable, endless options are available, effort pays off, money isn't a huge factor, and I feel an overall feeling of accomplishment, health and harmony
riding bikes at the define moment saved me from really bad situation in life and from that time cycling is crucial part of stayin in shape in mental and physical condition. sometimes i`m feeling its like running from problems but overall riding made me more patient, focused and hardened in all ways. and yes, cycling with buddies every time giving me a smile
Sounds to me Terry like you have discovered a bit about yourself. We all have down times, if you an't ride, sometimes going for a walk somewhere nice can also energize your spirit. Stay strong everyone!
to be really honest, this is the first video of you that got my full atention and/ or didn't skip any part. love the way you describe both your thoughts and the ride itself. la raja choro terry
This is why winter is always so hard for me, being off the bike and not enjoying time outside. I know with the right gear you can get some winter rides in but it doesn't even get close to comparing a nice summer night. When the sun is coming down and whipping down some trails or streets in a t shirt. Fuck, can't wait
Thanks for posting this. I'm not a hardcore cyclist like you... I'm a guy in my 50's who rides a fairly basic $1k Trek... try to get in a 10-20 mile ride a few times a week. With the cold weather the bike is collecting dust in the hallway and I am feeling like shite and chalking it up to the usual winter blues and blahs. But I believe you're on to something, and that even a casual rider like me is essentially mourning the loss of one of life's simple pleasures... a good brisk ride in the sunshine...
Damn man. Happens that I'm going through something pretty similar to that and I haven't thought about it, and then snapped right off when you said it. Thanks Terry! And definitely would appreciate more of these.
Most people where I live just put their bikes away in the winter season (Quebec, Canada). I used to do the same, as I thought that was the normal thing to do. This year, I discovered studded tires. They allow me to ride on the ice and the snow. This winter has been beautiful, as I bike to work everyday. My mental health has improved dramatically since a I grabbed my bike on a daily basis last August. Additionally, I have lost 20 pounds. It is amazing what a bike can do for you.
I feel this. Deeply. Broke my hand doing an endo early November last year. Was off the bike for two months. To compensate, I smoked too much weed, ate too much, was not as present or thoughtful a husband and father... was the longest I'd gone without riding since... I dislocated my foot (talus joint) in 2002. That didn't go well either. Riding is like the keystone in the arc of my life. Remove it and everything starts to crumble. Riding is my map, my compass and my daily meditation. In a way, I hope everyone groks the pure essence their keystone by its absence, reflects on it, then makes sure their life is full of what they need to love themselves and everyone else. LLAP 🖖
Thanks Terry for sharing this video! I feel the same way at times. I haven’t rode my bike in awhile and I noticed I get moody so for 2020 I’m make sure I ride my bike it helps. Just get out and ride people! It’s great therapy!
'''''' Hey Terry, Am a Big fan and a filmmaker myself. Used to lived in NY and just love your videos. I'm gg to write longer once I get off work. I'd love to see the whole parts of this ride+travel back tot he city. Great work.
absolutely loved this video. sweet footage, nice balance between city and 'offroad' vibes so it keeps looking interesting. you talking over (in the best voice-over voice ever, btw) is interesting, since you have time to think about the subject and can talk about the ride in between as well, so that is also more interesting. good serious subject too, nicely balanced with lighthearted riding talk. love it, please make more in this style :D
Thank you for the transparency. The spiral from not riding has been a heavy on me. Getting back on has been super difficult. Uncanny I should read this when I'm ready (desperate) to get out of the rut.
It’s always tough getting into the groove of riding when it’s cold. The more you do it the more it becomes habit and second nature. The equipment really plays a big part in keeping me out there. So weird because I never had to think of it when I lived in California
Absolutely feel the same. I get antsy and moody without riding my bike. It keeps my mental health in check. The endorphins do me a whole lot of good, but I think the part that benefits me the most is how meditative cycling is, it really centers and focuses me. Genuinely don't know if I could live without bikes.
I felt the mental health affects of not having the freedom of going out... because public transportation takes only certain routes and it usually just makes you walk unnecessary distances... I bought the bike, and I rode for a few months after riding, each time I have to go for maintenance it would be such an inconvenience so I wouldn't be able to ride it for a few weeks during the lockdown time in Sudan... Yes it is true it definitely makes a difference in your life and mental health... its part of your life... I've always rode bikes when younger and during my GAP year I decided to work and save up on transportation by riding the bike to and from work... around 10kms... I recently after 6 years got back ... and better because of your videos, they model and encourage best practices... when communiting...
A morning ride through the city cures a hangover or highover 100%. If you feel numb, slicing through traffic will ALWAYS give you the jolt of energy to keep going. Just like one of the guys in the 2001 documentary Pedal, when I can't ride, I'm having dreams in my sleep where I'm flying down the street on my bike and it feels amazing. You get to work on your bike and you're alive like it's mid-day when others are still rubbing their eyes. In the big city (London for me), you get a perspective on the city that nothing else will give you, you're not in a vehicle so you experience everything up-close like a pedestrian but you're crossing borders of different boroughs within minutes! May not be the fastest, may not be the safest but when you take all things into consideration, all at once, cycling is the single best way of transportation and even then, the best rides are the ones with no real destination and no time constraint. Respect to you all, happy new year EDIT: Killed an inner tube and waiting for puncture-proof tyres, can't wait to be back on two wheels. Will get a fixed gear in the future as a secondary bike for sure
Happened to me pretty heavy in October. Came out of summer exhausted and socially spent. Took me several weeks to get my shit together - and you know what - during that time I rebuilt and did maintenance on all my bikes, and even completed a refurbish on a old bike. Been back on the grind and it's revived my stoke. About to leave the east coast for some southwest desert riding for a few months. Change of scenery is needed.
I had a motorcycle accident recently, nothing serious but since I ride fixed and hurt my knees I stopped working out and cycling, and I climbed back on this morning, faded because I partied all week, but it was blissful. I completely agree and was so happy. This video came at the perfect time for me. Cycling gives a rhythm to life and I think it's a question of taste, but this video I think applies more broadly to sports. Very interesting video and everything you do is great. PS: I'm going to get a hotline sticker for my next build.
You said it’s good to be flexible, like getting the train when you can’t do your ride. I wish I could be more flexible with my need for riding. I know if I only rely on my bike to make me happy I will not have anything to go to if it’s taken away from me. This is a concept I struggle with, letting go of attachments and what not.
I totally connect with your experience!!! I haven't ridden in the last... 3-4 weeks... And I can totally feel the difference. Ok... It's cold here in Montreal, but I always ride through winter and this year I got lazy (for several reasons) and I can totally see the difference!!! Thanks for sharing!!!! I'm a fan do your work and I hope we'll ride together one day! Cheers bro!
An excellent video Terry! I know I feel 'Less Depressed' after a ride. If I don't ride (due to heavy smoke in the air) I feel mentally Off and I know its Not a coincidence-Ride Every day, Terry!!
Riding solves my problems and clears my mind (lets me run away and forget?). If I go too long without feeling my legs burn, nose run and hands go numb, I question my worth. Seeing familiar riders on the road or at the LBS is a plus. A bicycle-friend in town is the same way. We are from different scenes, but still enjoy meeting on the street, just rolling along, airing our problems. Then one of us gets a call for work. What else is there? (your videos, of course!)
Man I was in this exact same spot for basically the past year until a month ago, but for me it stemmed from getting a shitty persistent ankle injury that stopped me from skateboarding. I started isolating myself, becoming grumpy and irritable, pushing people away. I started self medicating more and more, drinking and smoking weed till I got the spins, eating like shit, just generally not taking care of myself at all. A year later my ankle still isn't 100% healed and one bail on the board could set me back weeks so I mostly just avoid it now, but the positive side is that it led me to be more serious about cycling! It still feels like a huge part of me was ripped out of my chest, but cycling is starting to fill that gap back in. I've been in the best mental health state of my life for the past 4-5 weeks because I've been riding as much as I can, becoming more social as I meet other riders and talk about bikes with people, pushing and challenging myself to go faster and further. No matter the sport, getting out and being active and social is always good for your mental health, even when the negative little snake in your brain makes you think it's not.
Thank you for making this video Terry. I have suffered from clinical depression ever since I was a teenager and also in the last few years fibromyalgia. I used to ride (and race a little) when I was younger but after I had a foot injury over a decade ago I quit cycling for a long time. About 18 months ago I got back into cycling again - very slow at first - but in 2019 I did more cycling than I've done in years. I've struggled motivation wise because of the depression over the years so some days I have to really push myself to go out. When I do though I feel so alive. I can't explain it. It's like a plant getting light and water being on the bike. My depression lifts when I'm on the bike. Also, my fibromyalgia got better over the summer last year when I was on the bike so I was able to start coming off the pain killers for the first time in years. I also lost 3.5 stones (I think that's about 49lbs) in weight. Sadly, I have been off the bike for over 3 months. I had some time off the bike for a few weeks from the end of September and then I suffered an unexpected seizure mid-October and I've had terrible head, neck and shoulder pain since. I suffer from SAD as well (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and that has a massive effect on my mood during the winter months so not being out on the bike now is having severe implications in that respect too. I'm hoping that all this pain passes soon because I know being on the bike is where I need to be right now. All the best for 2020 and keep hitting us with the rad videos.
Thank you for this - I've come to rely on riding as an emotional grounding. I have a hard time tapering before races and feel awful when I don't get out to ride. Also, I've seen a lot of the trails in the video while driving through New York and am psyched to seem them form a handlebar perspective.
Yeah, major vibes. I’m 28 and think I’m experiencing a bit of depression currently but I went out today for a solid 20 mile ride for the first time in a very very long time. When you were talking about it being tough to get out of bed on a day off I can totally relate, but the ride today really put things into perspective. Your videos are crazy man. To say they’re a major source of inspiration to me would be an understatement. Keep doing your thing, it lights a fire under my ass 🔥🔥🔥🙏🏼
My work sometimes keeps me off my bike for weeks. I definitely get snappy. I do yoga or swim at the hotel to keep myself on even keel when I can't ride.
2020 so far has been tough for me. Really like hearing your thoughts and totally relate. Been riding constantly for over a decade now and in 2016 i took 4 months off. It was funny to hear your only 2 months. But yeah only to realize i love and need bikes like forever. I was pro rad for a few years and thru training and racing i lost touch with friends, relationships and also I’m pretty introverted so it made it easy. But after turning to cx and just knobby tires and dirt/gravel riding i re found my love for bikes. I dont however have too many close friends anymore and want more of that. I’m in sacramento and honesty I’m over it here. I just need to change and switch it up. It was cool to hear your honesty and perspective and I’m with you man. My mental health at the moment could be better and it will. Sorry so long thanks for the video
yes, you should do more of these videos. Talking over footage about riding related stuff, Mental health, gear ratio, camera setup, backpacks, brakes, food, vintage road bikes, whatever, as long as it is riding related. just my 2cts, take care Mr Hotline
Food would be good!
I agree with that. All bike related.
I’m 47, going through a messy divorce. I suffer from anxiety and depression and feel I needed something in my life to get my mojo back. Watching your videos Terry inspired me to buy a bike. Thanks man✊🏼.
Please take care of yourself, it will get better soon, I had suicidal thoughts a few years ago, now I'm back on track, new car, new job, I'm so excited!
Also had broken with my GF and got my first bike. It helps, happy for you
Cycling saved my life Bro. Do it!
Hope you got that bike. I just turned 50 and cycling is the only thing that brings me joy in life. If i couldn't ride I'd probably off myself.
I still remember the day I got into riding. I found myself smiling and feeling extremely positive. This video reminds me of that day.
It's a great feeling to get on that bike
I always look forward to the next ride.If I let a nice day go by with out getting out on one of my bikes I feel guilty somehow.Sometimes it’s hard to get motivated when it’s cold outside,but I should’nt say that cause I’m the ICE RIDER!🧊🥶❄️Thanks Terry 😎
Couple weeks ago, about halfway into a nice 50km, I just started shouting that I was in joy, like actually inside of joy, completely elated. As my legs continued their eternal rotations, the world and all my problems and worries melted away, every other thing ceased to exist and in that timeless space, it was just me and movement and breath and cadence, expanding n contracting again again.
At around the same time last year I crashed my bike and bruised the bones within both my forearms. I couldn't really use my arms for weeks because the most minute amount of stress lead to severe pain. So I wasn't able to cycle for a solid 4-5 weeks. I usually don't do long distance rides, it's mostly commuting. My girlfriend started complaining about me being aggressive all the time about two weeks into not being able to ride even the shortest distances. That was the very first time I noticed how much of an impact cycling has on my psychology. I really don't need to ride much, but just the effect of my everyday 10 mile commute seems massive.
Last year I broke my hand and as a result I was not able to cycle for about 8 weeks. Other sport activities like running were also not possible. To prevent getting completely mad I ended up doing a lot of hiking at that time.
I call it “Cycle-Therapy”. I have always loved to travel. Particularly on a bike. My happy place is definitely on 2 wheels. A few years ago i went on the best journey of my life when i donated a kidney to my brother. After the transplant we talked excitedly about what we were going to do. He was going to quit his job & go back to school, and I was going to bike around the world. But when he suddenly passed away from an unrelated stroke, I fell into a long funk. I forgot about my bike tour and isolated. Didn’t get out of bed. Had no motivation at all. Gain weight. Felt like total crap mentally & physically. I slowly started coming out of it this past Summer. I kept hearing my brother’s voice telling me to get moving. So i started taking short rides. There is a nice bike path here on Long island to the beach. It’s about 20 miles round trip. 35-50 miles if I did the full loop. It felt good to be on the bike again. I got stronger physically...but mentally I felt a lot better when I was riding. My thoughts could wander. I had positive conversations with my brother as I rode. And started socializing with the other riders i met on the path. Biking definitely saved me. I was heading down a very dark path when i was just laying in bed after my brother passed away. I plan to do some really long tours this Spring/Summer.
Hi Bike Tall, thanks for opening up. You mind if I'd ask you some questions about your story? I'm working on a project that's strongly related to this.
I'm very much into podcasts and this is exactly like that but with a visual to go along with the monlogue that matches it's continuous characteristic. I'm very much interested in seeing more of these kind of videos
I think this video maybe saved my life today.
15 days travelling, i spent everyday thinking "damn i really miss my bike" and missing my daily commute and feeling the same things you described
I usually stay off the bike for days after my longer rides. When I raced for 5 days non stop I didn't ride for over a month. It's all about the endorphins. If you overdose you'll end up having to stop for a while until the urge to ride comes back.
The social aspect of group rides is also important even though I prefer to go solo on my ultra endurance rides.
Happy new year. Stay safe and healthy.
Definitely agree with you Terry. There's just something about this form of rolling meditation that we all love so much. Cycling for me has been one of the most transformative force's in my life. It's always the toughest days in the saddle that are the most memorable I think. I live in South Australia and I recall getting caught out in a summer thunderstorm right at the start of a long technical decent. It took every bit of concentration I could muster all the years of riding experience just to get home safe but I did it!!. The thrill I felt at acheiving that, there was no prize no first place as such but it changed me. I was having a tough time at that point in my life and it was like that thunderstorm washed my soul clean. Keep up the great work Terry what you do really makes the days I can't ride easier. Thanks.
Hi Owen, I'm working on a project that coincides with Terry'e video and some of the remarks made, including yours. You mind if I ask you some questions about your story?
So I bought a shitty vintage road bike around mid 2019 and it was some kind of amazing « ah ah ! » moment for me. I’ve been struggling with my mental health since I graduated from high school (around 2010) and while I’m not done with depression yet, commuting by bike has definitely helped me improve that side of things. This and finally taking steps to see a therapist (she’s amazing), are the best decisions I’ve made about my mental health in 2019.
I recently got to build a fixed gear bike with an old Gitane Mexico (seriously cool Reynolds 531 vintage steel frame 100% recommended !!) track frame some dude sold me for cheap and it got even more fun. The amazing feeling of getting from point A to point B by using only the strength of my body (which I’ve always deemed as weak) and being able to ride further and longer than I could even imagine... all this on a bike that I built myself... when a year ago I didn’t even know I liked riding bikes... that’s the shit man.
Also : endorphines might have a positive effect as as well, which is always a plus.
On a more serious note :
People, if you feel bad, please, seek the help of a professional and talk about it to your friends and/or family. I promise, it gets better, even though the path to getting better is really winding and involves some suffering at times. Don’t be ashamed of how you feel, tell people. Most of the people around me had no idea, and my first step towards getting better was telling them. If they know and do love you, they will listen.
Also : healing from depression is not like the movies show it. You don’t gradually get better and better, it’s work, it can be difficult, sometimes you feel even shittier than before starting the process, but that’s ok, it’s perfectly normal. Take a step back and watch the bigger picture : you are getting better.
Sorry that’s a really long comment, I got sidetracked ! I felt like someone may want to read that.
Cheers from Paris ! Also Terry : your videos make me want to ride my bike even more. Thank you.
Hope you’re doing better now! Thanks for the feedback and the advises! I may be the only one responding but IT HELPS!
Cheers from Paris also 😉
I have an organic brain disorder from a head injury, suffer from fight or flight and seizures. It causes depression too among other things. My wife was diagnosed with stage four metastatic colon cancer three years ago. It’s in her liver now and she is terminal. If I didn’t have my bike, I would not be able to cope. We had to stay in Seattle for radiation treatments. It took two months for the radiation, and I couldn’t ride because I was taking care of her. I sunk so low without my bike. I need that hour a day. The wind in your face, just you and the road/trail. It’s one of the best forms of meditation for me. Thanks for the videos. I think it’s really important to talk about mental health, and how to combat those feelings with exercise, mediation, eating well, and positive habits.
Thanks for sharing this.
Yup going though this stage right now
I've had a hard time with my mental health and I'm starting to think biking might be the answer
same
I'm impressed that you were able to take a few months off riding. I started picking it back up about 4-5 years ago and since then I was never able to put it down. Something about it clears my head and always gives me something to look forward to. Even the friends and relationships you make from it are pretty wild. Nothing quite like going out with a few friends on a nice long ride and reminiscing about it after over food. Anyway, this video is a welcome addition and I hope you produce more of them. Keep up the great work!
I was biking to get to work 6 years ago when I stopped partying. It grew and I kept going farther and farther on my rides home. I then got into photography from snapping photos with my phone on rides. I owe changing my life for the better to cycling and the local bike shop for keeping me on two wheels.
I enjoyed your film, and agree with you about the benefits of cycling on mental health. I feel much more relaxed and positive after a cycle ride. The activity relieves my stress. The difficulty is getting out in the middle of winter. I smashed myself up when I hit a patch of ice before Christmas, so now I am reluctant to get out if it is very cold.
My mental health went downhill after losing work from covid, but I've fallen back in love with cycling which has helped me through this whole situation. It's great to get exercise and have a way to clear my mind by just jumping on a bike.
I feel this. When I stop riding, I feel like I lose a piece of myself... I can relate when I rode to Newport. There were hills around every corner, it was cold with a chance of rain, and I had to take the bus back because it took longer than I had planned. It was still something to learn from since I was able to see some amazing sites. I didnt realize how happy I was for doing it till I watched this. You're great Terry!
Yes it happened with me during covid! I got stressed out anxiety attacks whenever I don’t do sports or ride my bike! It really heals my mental health.. and after all its fun!!
I had same very bad times, junk life, food and so on. Thinking finishing my life by myself… Running and Riding have saved me, it has been kind of salvation, i need it to live now. Thanks for all your videos. If a day i go New York hope meet you !
I'd watch a rough cut of this ride, and yes, I enjoyed the visual of the ride with the overdub of your thought stream. I would watch more of your interviews if they were done in this format, maybe take a ride with the person and film it, then show clips while the interview is ongoing, that would be be an interesting format.
Yes! That is a good idea!
Huge love from Jakarta, Indonesia! God bless you Terry, love all your videos. Cause you're the only one who doing this stuff.. at first 20-60 mins just strolling and chasing a bike, just boring. But at second to.. maybe a 30th time right now i saw the video, it is fun, especially when i finally bought my first track bike a year ago.
In short, you motivated me to be a healthy person, to be on a bike everyday.
U know what, when i got covid and quarantined myself 14 days, not able to riding my bike, almost frustrating me, i was watching wolfbotts' hotline for 5x maybe, almost all cooper ray's video, helps me ease down my frustrations level. THANK YOU TERRY!
More please. You need to get to Liverpool. Peaks and troughs Terry.
Have a great 2020.
Would be great to have a pint with Terry in Liverpool
Yes Terry! Whole video, please.
Definitely more of this. I have a lot of your stuff playing while I'm at work, and I could listen to you talk over riding footage all day.
You do a great job, Terry! I’m more hyped about riding bikes and traveling after each time I find time to watch one of your videos. I feel it though, life gets in the way, and can take away from our individual passions. Cycling is a form of therapy, and I honestly could use finding a way to start challenging myself to ride more often / commute to work more frequently via bicycle.
Anyway, happy New Years! Thank you.
Beautiful filming and important information, thanks.
im a programmer. year before last i was doing nothing but programming, alone, in a dark room. it really affected my psyche, i experienced some of things you talked about. i was biking to work here in nyc, but commuting was all i really did. i noticed i enjoyed riding though and figured i needed to balance the mental task of programming with something physical. so started going on rides for fun and in hopes to help my mental health. around the same time my MTB go stolen... a girl at a bike shop recommended i try a fixed gear, so i got one and fell in love. biking seriously helped pull me out of a dark place. wish i had some homies to ride with though. thanks for the video Terry!
FUCK! This is so true. I spent 2 months off the bike recently and felt terrible. I was being a jerk to people, I was eating like crap, and I just didn't like myself. I was amazed at how much cycling affected my mental health.
And yeah, put up the whole video please.
I needed this video more than you can imagine. I lost my dad in July and since then I lost my motivation and drive. I haven’t really ridden since he passed and the fog/depression has really crept in and taken a negative toll on my life. My girlfriend has been my biggest supporter and has encouraged me to get back on my bike almost everyday and I just haven’t. Today she made a new suggestion “why don’t you watch that hotline guy you always used to watch maybe that will get you going again”. There was something so simple about that, before if I wasn’t actually riding I would be watching you ride and in a weird way it almost felt one in the same. To get back to the channel today and see this video staring at me almost felt like you had a message for me. I don’t wanna be to corny but I do want to thank you man. Thank you for your honesty and your clarity. Thank you for your vulnerability. This is why we’re all here, and it’s why I’m glad I’m back here. It’s all love brother
I can relate to this video so much right now. I've been struggling really hard mentally. Thank you for putting this out there. I look forward to visiting NYC and doing this trail.
Got knocked off my bike by a taxi couple days ago and hand in a splint for 10 days... 3 days in and already feeling mentally foggy, snappy etc and this vid helped give me some perspective. Huge fan of all your vids, part of a nightly routine for me :)
looking forward to seeing more content like this! I feel like this was done particularly well. The theme your message went very well with the ride that you were on!
Felt the same but today I rewrapped my handlebar tape and out on the bike later today, just a little ride around Liverpool to get my head back in it. It feels the time is right. Happy New Year and thanks for your videos are great, hope to see more in 2020
Thanks for sharing man. Great first video for the year. Really refreshing and unaffected way of speaking. Cool looking route. All the best for 2020.
I absolutely loved this video, real life talk, and amazing trail riding. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for this video! Have a wonderful 2020
Thanks for this perspective Terry!
You got it!
Terry, I recently broke my foot riding. I've been out of commission for about 6 weeks now. What you described has absolutely happened to me as well. Your videos have definitely been a bright spot in my time off a bike. When you're used to riding every day, even if it's just for a few miles to get to work and back, not having that activity that keeps you happy can be really hard. There are so many things I feel like I miss, but riding is definitely the top of the list.
bro thanks for doing this video and for putting on for cycling overall. i think all of us who love riding bikes have experienced this but maybe not recognized what it was. this is helpful food for thought thanks brother
Love this video. Very pure. Looks like a great place to ride. Great to talk about these things as well. I have a similar experience when I don't ride. Everything slowly starts to go to pieces. Best not to stop!
I really like these type of videos as I find it easier to listen to if I have a visual and I also like the ambient sounds of riding a bike off road. I hope you have had a good new years and I fully understand what you mean by not riding for fun but just enough to get by.
Really dig this video! Thanks for sharing the ride and your thoughts. Happy new year!
So relatable. For me it’s cycling and weightlifting. Hang in there.
Terry, thanks for this video and yes, this is indeed a thing. I live in Buffalo, which has robust cycling community which I was actively apart of......until I had kids. I have a four and a one year old with a job that's in the suburbs. I love my kids with all my heart yet, this makes riding difficult and it's been three years since I haven't been riding daily which has been one of the most difficult adjustments to deal with mentally and physically. I've gained weight, lost contact with a bunch of friends and become more dependent on pot to reduce anxiety. I am currently working on finding a job closer to home that pays about the same that I can ride to and ditch my car, but it's difficult. When i do have to opportunity to ride, it's pure, unadulterated joy and it's like getting back a limb that you've lost up until that moment.
This is great, and so relatable to many of us I'm sure. I went through very similar circumstances. I'm only at 7:40 of the video right now but I can definitely relate. It is also possible that THAT low point you went through was full out silver lining and needed that disruption as a reminder / maybe you needed a bit of a short break, etc... Anyway, thanks, this is hugely important.
I find that most of my efforts in life end up fruitless and feel Very Unfulfilling because they're So unlikely to produce a desirable result. I believe that's why most people distract themselves with games, entertainment, drugs, vices, etc. However .... riding my bike feels So Right: obstructions can be overcome because problems are Always solvable, endless options are available, effort pays off, money isn't a huge factor, and I feel an overall feeling of accomplishment, health and harmony
Not only ride, ride aggressive, this sets the tone for your life
Completely agree, a 15 mile ride on my Trek Clears my mind of so many issues.
riding bikes at the define moment saved me from really bad situation in life and from that time cycling is crucial part of stayin in shape in mental and physical condition. sometimes i`m feeling its like running from problems but overall riding made me more patient, focused and hardened in all ways. and yes, cycling with buddies every time giving me a smile
Sounds to me Terry like you have discovered a bit about yourself. We all have down times, if you an't ride, sometimes going for a walk somewhere nice can also energize your spirit. Stay strong everyone!
Cycling is dope, the feel good vibe you get riding g outside.
to be really honest, this is the first video of you that got my full atention and/ or didn't skip any part. love the way you describe both your thoughts and the ride itself.
la raja choro terry
This is why winter is always so hard for me, being off the bike and not enjoying time outside. I know with the right gear you can get some winter rides in but it doesn't even get close to comparing a nice summer night. When the sun is coming down and whipping down some trails or streets in a t shirt. Fuck, can't wait
Thanks for posting this. I'm not a hardcore cyclist like you... I'm a guy in my 50's who rides a fairly basic $1k Trek... try to get in a 10-20 mile ride a few times a week. With the cold weather the bike is collecting dust in the hallway and I am feeling like shite and chalking it up to the usual winter blues and blahs. But I believe you're on to something, and that even a casual rider like me is essentially mourning the loss of one of life's simple pleasures... a good brisk ride in the sunshine...
I love cycling. and also, I love this channel.
Damn man. Happens that I'm going through something pretty similar to that and I haven't thought about it, and then snapped right off when you said it. Thanks Terry!
And definitely would appreciate more of these.
this video was actually really refreshing. thanks Terry
Dude, thanks for talking about stuff like this. I love the style of video too
Most people where I live just put their bikes away in the winter season (Quebec, Canada). I used to do the same, as I thought that was the normal thing to do. This year, I discovered studded tires. They allow me to ride on the ice and the snow. This winter has been beautiful, as I bike to work everyday. My mental health has improved dramatically since a I grabbed my bike on a daily basis last August. Additionally, I have lost 20 pounds. It is amazing what a bike can do for you.
I think that illnesses and injuries start that downward spiral and when you are over it physically it can be very hard to get back mentally
I feel this. Deeply. Broke my hand doing an endo early November last year. Was off the bike for two months. To compensate, I smoked too much weed, ate too much, was not as present or thoughtful a husband and father... was the longest I'd gone without riding since... I dislocated my foot (talus joint) in 2002. That didn't go well either. Riding is like the keystone in the arc of my life. Remove it and everything starts to crumble. Riding is my map, my compass and my daily meditation.
In a way, I hope everyone groks the pure essence their keystone by its absence, reflects on it, then makes sure their life is full of what they need to love themselves and everyone else.
LLAP 🖖
Going on a few months of something similar to this. Good to know the people I look up to aren't just machines in all regards. Thanks for this Terry
Thanks Terry for sharing this video! I feel the same way at times. I haven’t rode my bike in awhile and I noticed I get moody so for 2020 I’m make sure I ride my bike it helps. Just get out and ride people! It’s great therapy!
Yes!
''''''
Hey Terry, Am a Big fan and a filmmaker myself. Used to lived in NY and just love your videos. I'm gg to write longer once I get off work. I'd love to see the whole parts of this ride+travel back tot he city. Great work.
absolutely loved this video. sweet footage, nice balance between city and 'offroad' vibes so it keeps looking interesting. you talking over (in the best voice-over voice ever, btw) is interesting, since you have time to think about the subject and can talk about the ride in between as well, so that is also more interesting. good serious subject too, nicely balanced with lighthearted riding talk. love it, please make more in this style :D
Thank you for the transparency.
The spiral from not riding has been a heavy on me. Getting back on has been super difficult. Uncanny I should read this when I'm ready (desperate) to get out of the rut.
It’s always tough getting into the groove of riding when it’s cold. The more you do it the more it becomes habit and second nature. The equipment really plays a big part in keeping me out there. So weird because I never had to think of it when I lived in California
Absolutely feel the same. I get antsy and moody without riding my bike. It keeps my mental health in check. The endorphins do me a whole lot of good, but I think the part that benefits me the most is how meditative cycling is, it really centers and focuses me. Genuinely don't know if I could live without bikes.
I felt the mental health affects of not having the freedom of going out... because public transportation takes only certain routes and it usually just makes you walk unnecessary distances... I bought the bike, and I rode for a few months after riding, each time I have to go for maintenance it would be such an inconvenience so I wouldn't be able to ride it for a few weeks during the lockdown time in Sudan... Yes it is true it definitely makes a difference in your life and mental health... its part of your life... I've always rode bikes when younger and during my GAP year I decided to work and save up on transportation by riding the bike to and from work... around 10kms... I recently after 6 years got back ... and better because of your videos, they model and encourage best practices... when communiting...
Thanks for sharing. Cheers and happy 2020.
A morning ride through the city cures a hangover or highover 100%. If you feel numb, slicing through traffic will ALWAYS give you the jolt of energy to keep going. Just like one of the guys in the 2001 documentary Pedal, when I can't ride, I'm having dreams in my sleep where I'm flying down the street on my bike and it feels amazing.
You get to work on your bike and you're alive like it's mid-day when others are still rubbing their eyes. In the big city (London for me), you get a perspective on the city that nothing else will give you, you're not in a vehicle so you experience everything up-close like a pedestrian but you're crossing borders of different boroughs within minutes!
May not be the fastest, may not be the safest but when you take all things into consideration, all at once, cycling is the single best way of transportation and even then, the best rides are the ones with no real destination and no time constraint. Respect to you all, happy new year
EDIT: Killed an inner tube and waiting for puncture-proof tyres, can't wait to be back on two wheels. Will get a fixed gear in the future as a secondary bike for sure
Happened to me pretty heavy in October. Came out of summer exhausted and socially spent. Took me several weeks to get my shit together - and you know what - during that time I rebuilt and did maintenance on all my bikes, and even completed a refurbish on a old bike. Been back on the grind and it's revived my stoke. About to leave the east coast for some southwest desert riding for a few months. Change of scenery is needed.
This is lovely footage. And talking about MH stuff helps to destigmatize. Looking forward to more in this vein.
I had a motorcycle accident recently, nothing serious but since I ride fixed and hurt my knees I stopped working out and cycling, and I climbed back on this morning, faded because I partied all week, but it was blissful. I completely agree and was so happy. This video came at the perfect time for me. Cycling gives a rhythm to life and I think it's a question of taste, but this video I think applies more broadly to sports. Very interesting video and everything you do is great.
PS: I'm going to get a hotline sticker for my next build.
You said it’s good to be flexible, like getting the train when you can’t do your ride. I wish I could be more flexible with my need for riding. I know if I only rely on my bike to make me happy I will not have anything to go to if it’s taken away from me. This is a concept I struggle with, letting go of attachments and what not.
I totally connect with your experience!!! I haven't ridden in the last... 3-4 weeks... And I can totally feel the difference.
Ok... It's cold here in Montreal, but I always ride through winter and this year I got lazy (for several reasons) and I can totally see the difference!!!
Thanks for sharing!!!! I'm a fan do your work and I hope we'll ride together one day! Cheers bro!
I really like the commentary on top of the rides.
Also the juxtaposition between the trail and Yonkers was nice to see in one ride lol
Love the commentaries Terry. Happy New Year!
thaks for sharig ad i eed to get my bike out for sure eed wrap up but get back out it sure does feel diffret ive ot rode for amoth at least
What a great video and such an important topic!
Appreciate your attention :)
Would love to see full ride
this is such a pretty trail.
An excellent video Terry! I know I feel 'Less Depressed' after a ride. If I don't ride (due to heavy smoke in the air) I feel mentally Off and I know its Not a coincidence-Ride Every day, Terry!!
Thank you so much for this honest video, I really felt it. You should definitely do more videos like this if you feel like tackling such issues.
Riding solves my problems and clears my mind (lets me run away and forget?). If I go too long without feeling my legs burn, nose run and hands go numb, I question my worth. Seeing familiar riders on the road or at the LBS is a plus. A bicycle-friend in town is the same way. We are from different scenes, but still enjoy meeting on the street, just rolling along, airing our problems. Then one of us gets a call for work. What else is there? (your videos, of course!)
Thanks Terry. I wish you all the best for 2020. Keep up riding and your great skillfull work. Many greetings from Berlin 👍🍻
I do agree that cycling changes our mental state and physical state as well. Thank for sharing your experiences about cycling with us , keep it up.
Man I was in this exact same spot for basically the past year until a month ago, but for me it stemmed from getting a shitty persistent ankle injury that stopped me from skateboarding. I started isolating myself, becoming grumpy and irritable, pushing people away. I started self medicating more and more, drinking and smoking weed till I got the spins, eating like shit, just generally not taking care of myself at all. A year later my ankle still isn't 100% healed and one bail on the board could set me back weeks so I mostly just avoid it now, but the positive side is that it led me to be more serious about cycling! It still feels like a huge part of me was ripped out of my chest, but cycling is starting to fill that gap back in. I've been in the best mental health state of my life for the past 4-5 weeks because I've been riding as much as I can, becoming more social as I meet other riders and talk about bikes with people, pushing and challenging myself to go faster and further. No matter the sport, getting out and being active and social is always good for your mental health, even when the negative little snake in your brain makes you think it's not.
Thank you for making this video Terry. I have suffered from clinical depression ever since I was a teenager and also in the last few years fibromyalgia. I used to ride (and race a little) when I was younger but after I had a foot injury over a decade ago I quit cycling for a long time. About 18 months ago I got back into cycling again - very slow at first - but in 2019 I did more cycling than I've done in years. I've struggled motivation wise because of the depression over the years so some days I have to really push myself to go out. When I do though I feel so alive. I can't explain it. It's like a plant getting light and water being on the bike. My depression lifts when I'm on the bike. Also, my fibromyalgia got better over the summer last year when I was on the bike so I was able to start coming off the pain killers for the first time in years. I also lost 3.5 stones (I think that's about 49lbs) in weight. Sadly, I have been off the bike for over 3 months. I had some time off the bike for a few weeks from the end of September and then I suffered an unexpected seizure mid-October and I've had terrible head, neck and shoulder pain since. I suffer from SAD as well (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and that has a massive effect on my mood during the winter months so not being out on the bike now is having severe implications in that respect too. I'm hoping that all this pain passes soon because I know being on the bike is where I need to be right now. All the best for 2020 and keep hitting us with the rad videos.
I just came out of a two month low-cycling phase, this description of the transformation is perfect.
Thank you for this - I've come to rely on riding as an emotional grounding. I have a hard time tapering before races and feel awful when I don't get out to ride. Also, I've seen a lot of the trails in the video while driving through New York and am psyched to seem them form a handlebar perspective.
broke my foot and travelled after. had the same feelings when I came back. it feels like depression
True words!
Yeah, major vibes. I’m 28 and think I’m experiencing a bit of depression currently but I went out today for a solid 20 mile ride for the first time in a very very long time. When you were talking about it being tough to get out of bed on a day off I can totally relate, but the ride today really put things into perspective. Your videos are crazy man. To say they’re a major source of inspiration to me would be an understatement. Keep doing your thing, it lights a fire under my ass 🔥🔥🔥🙏🏼
No matter what has happened in the past day, week, or month, I can't help but smile when I go cycle.
My work sometimes keeps me off my bike for weeks. I definitely get snappy. I do yoga or swim at the hotel to keep myself on even keel when I can't ride.
2020 so far has been tough for me. Really like hearing your thoughts and totally relate. Been riding constantly for over a decade now and in 2016 i took 4 months off. It was funny to hear your only 2 months. But yeah only to realize i love and need bikes like forever. I was pro rad for a few years and thru training and racing i lost touch with friends, relationships and also I’m pretty introverted so it made it easy. But after turning to cx and just knobby tires and dirt/gravel riding i re found my love for bikes. I dont however have too many close friends anymore and want more of that. I’m in sacramento and honesty I’m over it here. I just need to change and switch it up. It was cool to hear your honesty and perspective and I’m with you man. My mental health at the moment could be better and it will. Sorry so long thanks for the video