Hey there, y’all! I’m Brandon, and welcome to The Bike Explorer, my cozy corner of the internet where I share my passion for all things cycling. If you’re curious about my two-wheeled adventures or simply looking to learn more about the newest cycling gear and trends, you’ve landed in the right spot. So, let’s gear up and dive into the world of cycling, right here on thebikeexplorer.com!
Pedaling Through the Years: My Cycling Journey
My cycling story began back in 2004 with a casual visit to the local Bike Barn in Houston. My brother-in-law invited me along, as he was looking for a bike for that year’s MS 150. Well, to make a long story short, I ended up the one who left the shop with a new road bike – a 2004 Specialized Allez Elite Double! When the bike bug bites, it bites hard!
Flash forward 20 years, and I’ve done it all. I’ve raced competitively as a CAT 3 road cyclist, completed more centuries than I can count, sped down the tech and single-track trails outside of Seattle, and now I just enjoy riding the rural roads with my local cycling club. I’ve learned all about training and periodization and have almost 15 years of my training data in TrainingPeaks and Strava!
Reflecting on these last two decades, I realize that cycling is more than just a sport to me; it’s a way of life. It’s about the adrenaline of racing, the solitude and mind-clearing impact of a solo ride, and everything in between. These experiences have not only shaped my lifestyle but have also given me a wealth of knowledge and unforgettable memories.
Gearing Up: Tips and Tales from The Bike Explorer
After 20 years of cycling, I’ve learned a thing or two about bikes, gear, and the open road. I believe in sharing this knowledge to help y’all make informed decisions, whether you’re seeking training advice, building your dream bike, trying to find the lightest gear, or just looking to maintain your trusty steed.
Here at The Bike Explorer, I offer advice on everything from selecting the best cycling gear to DIY bike maintenance tips. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate through the myriad of cycling gear, bike, and component options. That’s why I’m here to streamline your cycling journey with practical, easy-to-understand content.
More Than Just a Cyclist: A Peek into My Personal Life
When I’m not on my bike, I wear the hat of a machine learning scientist at Microsoft. Balancing my professional and family life hasn’t always been an easy task, but it’s one that has brought me immense fulfillment. My family is my support system; my wonderful wife and daughters share in my adventures and are a constant source of inspiration.
But my love for staying active doesn’t stop at cycling. I embrace a lifestyle that keeps me moving, whether it’s rock climbing, hiking, or swimming laps at the gym. It’s all about finding joy in movement, in whatever form it takes.
I invite y’all to connect with me, not just as followers of The Bike Explorer, but as fellow adventurers in this exciting world of cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just starting out, I’m here to share my experiences, tips, and perhaps a few laughs along the way.
So, hop on, and let’s ride this journey together!
Cheers,
Brandon
The Bike Explorer
