For 35 years, bikes with two wheels were my world. Racing since childhood, inspired by legends like Greg Lemond and Bernard Hinault, cycling was deeply ingrained in my life. Two wheels were synonymous with cycling, until a recent turn of events broadened my horizons.
Sixteen months ago, a seemingly minor arm fracture occurred. However, the injury lingered, intensifying into persistent pain that baffled doctors. Almost a year later, the arm was re-fractured while trail running. This setback brought immense frustration. Regular bikes were out of the question, and so were running, yoga, hunting, and fly-fishing – activities that defined my active life.
In this period of frustration, an unexpected solution emerged: bikes with three wheels, specifically recumbent trikes designed for off-road adventures. For a seasoned cyclist, a trike might seem unconventional, even undesirable, like resorting to training wheels. Initially, the idea of riding a trike was far from appealing. However, my search led me to the Terra Trike Rambler All-Terrain, a new model that surprisingly arrived at my door shortly after discovery. Despite being out of shape and with a Jordan photography assignment looming in just a week, I impulsively planned a trikepacking tour through the backroads of New Mexico. Four days, three nights, and several hundred miles later, my perspective had completely transformed.
The Rambler revealed the essence of cycling enjoyment while eliminating the drawbacks. (More details on this to follow.) Coming straight from the couch, attempting such mileage on a two-wheeled bike would have been impossible. Yet, the three-wheeled bike granted me the liberty to explore and indulge in my passion. While my love for traditional bicycles remains, I anticipate a long-lasting and fulfilling relationship with the trike.
