The Downsides to Owning a Bike

I thought about waiting another day to post this, but I feel I learned a lot in just my first day as a bicycle owner - mostly the things that I hadn't really anticipated. Hopefully some of the cons will go away after a while, like...

Being really, really out of shape.

I used to be an in-shape beast, because of marching band and then studying at a musical theatre school where I danced a minimum of 7 or 8 hours a week. Now, however, my most strenuous activity is hustling from the back of the store to the front to be complained at by unhappy customers. After working all day yesterday, my surprise 5hr long adventure, and the bike ride home (see previous posts), I was so tired on my bike today. My legs took a while to stop shaking once I got home tonight. My weariness is multiplied every time I remember I'm marching in two back-to-back parades in about 6 hours, and another one at night.

The seat is not built for comfort.

Who decided that was the optimal shape? I'm sure it's a lot better than others, but how certain are we that we have evolved as high as we're going to go, bicycle seat-wise? My tailbone is so bruised I had to stop riding and adjust the seat, because I didn't listen to myself when I said I should. It helped a little, but I think my bones are a little mushy today. Wow.

Hills.

Do I really need to say more? Whoever coined the term "making a mountain out of a molehill" and found it ridiculous was obviously not a bike rider. Grades that before may have been merely a slight annoyance - if noticed at all - are now daunting ramps to scale on a wheeled vehicle. It brings to mind being a child walking up a slippery slide, tackling a seemingly impossible task.

No. I do not approve.

Downhill.

Initially, this will seem awesome - a fun-filled breeze, taking you where you want to go with little effort, like those airport walking paths. Do not be fooled. Try to stop, or slow down without falling over or having your brakes make unnerving noises of protest. Also, you have to come back the same way. Didn't think of that, now didja.

It is really hard to drink while on a bicycle.

I haven't tried it yet, but I imagine this statement to be ridiculously true. Instead I just went thirsty the entire ride.

These are just the things I ran into today on one trip, but I can see other potential problems as well. My backpack isn't the most comfortable on a bike - I may have to give in and carry a messenger bag like a hipster. What if I decide to go grocery shopping? What if I meet up with people, then I'll have to walk my bike awkwardly and such.

Don't get me wrong, I'm really happy with my purchase, but I can see where some things will have to change. I shall return to this topic in a few months, after I have developed buns of steel and the sexiest legs on earth. For now, food! I love it so.