Expresso! (Yes, I Spelled it Right)

At my gym they have these "virtual reality" stationary bikes.  They are called "Expresso" bikes.   As you ride, you see yourself on a video screen (well, your virtual hands on virtual handlebars) riding through scenic bike trails with other riders.  At first I thought it looked pretty stupid, but other cardio machines are so deadly dull, I thought I would give it a try.

You know?  I enjoyed riding through the scenic trails.  I also found that having other virtual bikers helped me to pick up the pace a bit, just like real other riders do.  "I have to catch up to her..."   "I can pass this guy."  I guess I have a tiny competitive streak.  I just wish the virtual bike would let you mess up.  If you take a turn too fast, you don't go into a skid and wipe out.  If you hit another cyclist, you don't both fall.  You can't even ride off the path because it bumps you back on.  Of course, I tried to do all these things.  I think it would be way more fun if it let you crash now and then, much more like the real thing.

Hey, wait?  Why don't I just ride my real bike with real dangers of crashes and road rashes?  I can't answer that question just now.  I think it has to with the fact that I feel like everything is somewhat on hold until I move.  It is hard to navigate my bike around Box Mountain to get it out the door these days.  Plus, I still haven't recovered mentally or physically from the school year. 

For the time being Expresso is where it's at!