So I started the week thinking I was getting chunky again. Not quite as bad as before, but the new scales made me realise just how inaccurate the old ones were; and boy were they bad.
As a scientist by training it’s always been within my mind that no equipment is good unless it is calibrated, and that calibration checked against a known good from time to time – so I am now weighing in on public scales as I can see the calibration labels on those and thus I’ll know if mine begin to fail again.
So, back to the bike. I decided I needed more exercise; and I needed both aerobic and anaerobic exercise. A bike delivers both of these to an extent and so I started making enquiries about exercise bikes. But then, I thought, exercise bikes are for the most part pointless and boring! It’s the same scenery all the time and unless you get a really expensive one they just simulate the same level of resistance.
Thus it was decided. I was going to get a real bike. But I always loved the simplicity of the BMX. No gears. A simple chain driven system. No fancy suspension. So I started looking around for BMX bikes.
Amazingly I discovered that they are now really popular! After virtually disappearing off the market 15 years ago they are now back in a big way and there were loads to choose from on Facebook Marketplace.
So I looked at sizes – a 6ft adult needs 20.5″ wheels and a 20 to 20.8″ crossbar for an optimum stunt performance whilst still being able to use the saddle if needed (not that you use the saddle much on a BMX).
I found this beauty.
20.5″ wheels and just over 20″ crossbar length. Not too far away either. So I went and collected it. I have to say I love the colour!
It’s official I now have a BMX! Last time I used a BMX was in about 1987 and it was my Diamond Back Silver Streak 2.
Yesterday we went out with them for the first time. I was reminded again that I’m not actually 16 as I finished off pretty much exhausted! But that’ll change. A gentle start to a regular exercise regime and I’ll soon start rebuilding my muscle structure.
Then again it was a -3°C day and with the wind it felt like -8°C! Definitely hard work there.
Today is Valentine’s Day. We’re going to have another short ride today. A couple of miles. Nothing too strenuous or hilly. Think of this as my couch to 10K…
I’m now looking at other exercises I can do to improve my muscle tone. I don’t want to be a beefcake; but a six pack would be lovely.
Tall Order is great. It’s worth watching the owner, Baz Keeps “Walls” video on YouTube.
A quick note though, the wheels are 20″.
Good luck, and to help inspire you more I’m currently with the NHS on a BMX programme for adults. We’ve got a load of folks already signed up.
Thanks! I saw they said 20.5 on the side and presumed otherwise. Thank for clearing that up.
I think when we had stock left they were 20 x 2.3″ tyres.
Anyway good luck on your adventures, and try and see if you have a pump track near you. They are great fun and a bit less of a testorone show than a skatepark.
We have better. We have lots of old clay spoil heaps. I used to use them back in the 80’s and I have already been for a look to see the condition. Still good.
Avoid hitting bumps or they could hear the KERPOW a mile away. If the temp gets below -23C, the tires will freeze and shatter as soon as you get on it. It will be a genuine Boris Johnson KERFUFFLE!