Music Makes the Ride

by: Robert Sawyer

Through the last 25+ years we have spent a lot of time on bicycles.  I had to learn how to not hammer through the ride, but to actually slow down and enjoy riding. Bliss had to learn that sometimes you can push yourself a little and still have a good time. We’ve found that sweet spot where we both enjoy cycling very much! Having said that, spending hours at a time on a bike can get quite tedious. Somewhere along the line we started taking a bluetooth speaker with us, and music has become a huge part of our cycling life. 

We still ride a lot without music, enjoying the scenery and just being out in nature. But there are times when it’s monotonous that we can sing along with our favorite songs and pass the time. Sometimes, when the wind is relentless or the climb unending, the music helps give that extra push. Best of all, there are times when we’re all alone out there, and a song comes on that heightens our senses or emotions, it can feel like we’re flying. A very memorable example was riding the Hogback Ridge near Escalante Utah. Up on the ridge looking down on the white rock that spread as far as we could see, a Craig Chaquiso song came on; it’s hard to explain, but it was such a magical feeling, enhancing the whole experience. 

We have very different tastes in music, so I have the task of finding songs that are acceptable to both of us and with a good enough tempo for cycling. Luckily we both like a lot of classic rock, blues, and Motown.  I created the BnR playlist on Spotify where I put all the songs that might fit our needs. I try to make the first couple songs appropriate to the trip. On our east coast trip we started with songs like “On the Road Again” by Willy Nelson. Entering South Carolina we played “Going to Carolina” by James Taylor. Starting off in England we had a lot of Beatles, and for Norway, Ahah.

Along the way I’ve expanded my musical interests, and introduced Bliss to some bands that she now likes (like Caamp, Avett Brothers, ALO). In Richmond VA we went to a concert to see the Dead South. Now Bliss loves it when their songs comes on. The opening act was Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, which was new to both of us, but now gives us a good giggle when their songs come on.

I always sprinkle in some tolerable pop songs for Bliss, and I’ll sneak in a Zeppelin or Alice in Chains tune for me. I also made a Sunday playlist with mellow, inspirational, and instrumental songs. It’s a peaceful change from the rockin’ out on weekdays.

Sidenote:

Bliss usually rides behind me so I carry the speaker in my jersey pocket or strapped to my gear. We’re on our 5th speaker right now. They either got broken, lost, or borrowed and not returned. Our last one was accidentally donated to a chinese restaurant in Haines Junction, Yukon last July.