It’s been a year since my Halfbike, affectionately nicknamed Penny, arrived at my doorstep. Just 45 minutes after unboxing, I was embarking on my very first ride. You can read about my initial months and experiences here. Over the past year, I’ve learned a lot, made a few mistakes, and discovered some great solutions to make the most of this unique ride.
One year on, and my love for riding my Halfbike hasn’t waned. In fact, the slight wear on the front tire is a welcome sign. It’s proof of the miles we’ve clocked together and the time I’ve dedicated to both my physical and mental well-being.
Penny, my trusty Halfbike, resides comfortably in my entryway, helmet hanging from the handlebars, always ready for our next adventure. With such easy access, excuses to skip a ride are few and far between.
We typically ride between 3 to 6 times a week, for sessions lasting 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the weather and my daily schedule.
Why Choose a Halfbike for Fitness?
Confession time: I’ve never enjoyed traditional workouts. The gym has never been my happy place. However, I do crave enjoyable and accessible ways to stay active, right from the convenience of my home.
Perhaps it was a touch of pandemic-era inspiration, but my decision to purchase a Halfbike was far from impulsive. I had been actively seeking a low-impact, enjoyable exercise method that I could consistently incorporate into my routine, ideally at least three times a week. As a minimalist, bulky gym equipment like treadmills or rowing machines were simply not appealing. Then, I encountered an advertisement for the Halfbike, and a wave of nostalgia for cycling washed over me. Traditional bike seats had become uncomfortable over the years, making regular bikes less appealing.
The concept of a stand-up bicycle was entirely new to me. After thorough research, I realized that the Halfbike perfectly aligned with my minimalist preferences and my love for cycling.
It’s important to note that the learning curve is real. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend a Halfbike for those who are particularly prone to accidents. Despite being a cautious rider, I’ve had my share of spills, returning home with scrapes, bruises, and a few colorful stories.
Finding Joy and Relaxation in My Daily Halfbike Rides
Despite the occasional tumble, I remain dedicated to my Halfbike rides. The sheer enjoyment I experience while riding far outweighs the minor setbacks. I’ve learned that I don’t need to push for speed or distance to get a satisfying workout. Short, regular rides are just as effective and much more sustainable for my lifestyle.
While I enjoy the feeling of speed, navigating city streets and narrow Japanese roads requires constant vigilance. The unpredictable nature of some pedestrians and cyclists in my neighborhood keeps me alert and focused.
A nearby park has become a favorite destination. Its seasonal flowering trees, lush green spaces, and iconic vending machines offering hot and cold drinks provide a constantly changing and refreshing backdrop for my rides.
Adjusting My Riding Style for the Halfbike
One of the biggest adjustments I had to make when transitioning to the Halfbike was foot placement on the pedals. Having cycled extensively on traditional bikes, including multi-day tours, I had ingrained habits about pedal position and seat height for optimal comfort and efficiency over long distances.
The Halfbike is a different beast altogether. Initially, I attempted longer rides and gradually increased my ride times, applying my conventional cycling knowledge. However, I soon realized that my ingrained foot positioning, perfect for traditional bikes, was not ideal for the Halfbike. Knee pain, a completely new sensation for me, started to develop. Despite being at a healthy weight and having no prior knee issues, it was clear something needed to change. Luckily, I found a solution.
My Biggest Mistake with the Halfbike: Overloading
Penny and I had started incorporating errands into our rides, picking up groceries and other items from local shops. While I am of a healthy weight, the added burden of a backpack full of groceries was likely a major contributor to my knee problems.
I made a simple but effective change: I stopped carrying extra weight on my back and opted for a handlebar bag instead.
Halfbike with a handlebar bag carrying groceries, parked outside a shop, showcasing a practical use for the halfbike.
Problem Solved: Rethinking My Riding Technique
I decided to take a break from riding during the coldest two months of the year. This allowed my knees ample time to recover and gave me a chance to reassess my riding approach. Returning to basic body mechanics principles, I consciously readjusted my pedaling technique and eliminated the extra weight on my back.
Keeping it simple, I now pedal with a flat foot, mostly centered on the pedal. Since making these adjustments, I’m happy to report that I’ve been riding pain-free.
Connecting with My Community Through the Halfbike
Most of my rides are local, exploring my neighborhood streets, nearby parks, and running quick errands. While I feel confident riding Penny, I still consider myself a cautious rider. I adopt a defensive riding style, much like defensive driving. Japan has a large elderly population, and their road habits – walking in the street, cycling without looking – require extra awareness.
Just the other day, I passed an older gentleman on an adult tricycle. We shared a knowing nod, a silent acknowledgment of our shared appreciation for three-wheeled cycling.
The woman who used to watch and laugh as I wobbled during my initial learning phase now offers a grudging nod as I pass.
The owner of the local tatami shop always greets me with a friendly wave.
Children often point and exclaim, “Nani ga . . .?”, their curiosity about the unusual bike evident, prompting their parents to hush them.
Halfbike parked in the snow, highlighting its all-weather capability and the author's dedication to riding in different conditions.
My Favorite Unexpected Benefit: Halfbike in the Rain!
One of the biggest surprises has been how well the Halfbike handles in wet conditions! During the rainy season in June, I had an urgent errand. A 15-minute walk each way in pouring rain versus a quick 5-minute ride on Penny? The choice was clear. Penny performed brilliantly! She navigated puddles and even bounced over slippery railroad tracks with ease, as if it were a sunny day. The brakes remained reliable throughout.
On particularly stressful days, Penny and I sometimes opt for a de-stressing puddle-jumping ride.
Today is another beautiful summer day, and I’m looking forward to my next ride with Penny Halfbike ❤️
