Easy Sunday Ride

First day on the bike in several months.  Took some time to dust the bike off, and lube the chain and cleats.  Luckily, I live close to a trail, so I just hopped on the bike and headed down the street and onto the trail.  So, whats my gear?

I'm riding a Cannondale CAAD9-6 w/Shimano Tiagra Components thanks to the knowledgeable and friendly folks at Conte's Bikes in Arlington.  I wanted to get a bike that was versatile and a good performer.  I also wanted a bike that I could grow into.  At the time of my purchase, about 1.5 years ago, I was just getting into cycling and triathlons, and Jody (one of the owners) suggested the Cannondale over the Specialized.  I tested both, and felt like there was less pressure on my hands and wrist, and I felt more stable on the Cannondale.  I'm really glad I purchased the Cannondale.  I don't see any new bike purchases anytime soon, though I do wish I could upgrade the components.

Speedplay Zero Pedals which I got on sale at Spokes in Vienna.  I purchased these because I could clip in however the pedal is oriented.  I do like the pedals, the only downside is, if I wanted to take the bike out without the cleats on, I can't.  The pedal is just too small, I can't wear sneakers with the bike.  I'm still mixed on the float, I think I may play around with decreasing the float on these pedals.

I only have one additional add-on which is a set of Profile Designs Carbon Fiber Aero Bars, not much to say here, I did have to swap out my drop bars because the stock drop bars were not aero bar friendly.

Since much of the training will be in the winter, I need some winter riding gear, which I still need to find.  If anyone has any suggestions for pants and/or a winter riding jacket, I am all ears.  I picked up a pair of wool socks and winter riding gloves.

My ride today was good except half way into my ride, whenever I tried to push it hard, my gears kept switching on me, unsolicited.  Luckily for me, Spokes was not far off the trail.  I dropped in, and they were kind enough to check out my problem, which turned out to be loose chain tension.

My ride stats:

Approximately 36:13 minutes, 8.68 miles, 14.3 AvS

This is just the beginning, hopefully we'll see some serious improvement over the next five months! Next up, the pool! I just need to figure out where I can swim, and figure out how to get my butt out of bed at 0500 :)  In the next few weeks, I'll post up my training schedule, for anyone interested.