Let me take you back to two years ago.

A great co-worker roped me into RAGBRAI, a legendary bike ride across Iowa with over 30,000 riders. It is a rolling festival of endurance, sweat, and camaraderie. It’s a blast… and a grind.

But I didn’t just ride it; I rode it on a single-speed mountain bike.

One Gear.

Hundreds of miles.

No shortcuts.

Just long, hot days on two wheels with one choice: keep going.

I chose the challenge because I knew I could do it. And because there’s something powerful about committing to a goal that demands your full effort.

This summer, I’m heading back. But I’m facing a new decision.

Road Bike… or Single-Speed Again?

This time, I have options. I could ride a road bike with more gears, a smoother ride, and easier climbs, a wise choice.

But part of me wonders:

Would it still feel as fulfilling?

But I’m torn.

Do I take the smoother ride? Or rebuild my single-speed and test my resilience again?

I know I’ve got the mindset to finish.

I don’t know which route will help me grow the most.

A Question for You

Have you ever chosen the more challenging path not because you had to but because it made you better?

Would you go for a more leisurely ride?

Or chase the challenge, knowing it could change you?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

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Thank you for your time, and have a Fantastic Friday.