Tracy Napier is Loving the Bike

We love to feature real life cyclists who are as passionate about cycling as we are, and have included the all in our “Look Who’s Loving the Bike” category of posts.

This time around, Tracy Napier is letting us know why she is Loving the Bike.

Tracy is Loving the Bike

by Tracy Napier

Well, I am so happy to share my most memorable experience ever because it was not only my best biking memory, but probably one of my most cherished memories of all time.

I am new to mountain biking.  I have been riding for one summer.  Prior to this year, I rode a pedal bike from the age of 5, until around 10 years old.  Otherwise, I am a complete newbie.

I have always wanted to get into the sport, but never could justify spending the money on myself, for a bike, when I had three little girls to raise on my own.  This year, my boyfriend of a year asked me if I wanted to start riding an extra one he had.  It was too small for me, but I made do with no complaints.

I fell in love with every aspect of mountain biking within three rides.  I loved the climb, the scenery, the freedom, the rush of the downhill descend, the pride I felt when I made improvements in my skills and endurance, and the fun I had every time I rode.  In addition to this…I cherished the quality time my boyfriend, Cory, and I had together, as we were both learning to ride.

Him, to improve himself.  Me to learn the basics and build upon them, quickly.  We grew together.  Well, two weeks ago, I came home from work early (used some vacation time) so Cory and I could go for a late afternoon ride before the girls came home from their dad’s house.  As we went to load the bikes, he asked if I wanted to take my “new one” for a spin.

Confused, I said I didn’t know what he was referring to.  That’s when he swung the shed door open to surprise me with my own brand new Trek Fuel Ex 6 bike!  I laughed.  I cried.  I refused to accept it.  I hugged it.  I hugged him.  I did the jumping seal clap, while squealing in happiness.

It was hands down, the biggest, the nicest and the most loving and thoughtful gift I had ever received from anyone…ever.  After a few weeks of riding it and breaking it in (100+ miles in a week and a half), he took me to Kellogg, Idaho to Silver Mountain Resort for two nights so we could go downhill riding at the ski hill.

This was, hands down, the most amazing weekend of my life.  We had so much fun!  We tore up the mountain, got a great weekend of thrills and fun, and grew even closer as a couple….all for the love of biking.