The Right Seat

Years ago, I biked up the magnificent Mount Tam in California.

I left from an idyllic mountain town, Mill Valley, and began a journey through an old-growth forest. I still remember the smell of those redwoods and long to return.

It was an arduous journey, and although I thought I was in good shape, I was clearly not in good biking shape.

I couldn’t believe how hard it was, and it seemed like everyone on the trail passed me.

Exhausted, I stopped at a small cascade where other bikers were drinking directly from mother earth. An experienced biker noticed my seat was too low, and instructed me to raise the height.

I learned the hard way that I limited my leverage by sitting low, unable to fully extend my legs. The ride was much harder than it could have been.

I was able to make it to the top for an unforgettable view.

On the way down, the height of my seat didn’t matter. There was no need to peddle.

I learned my lesson.

There’s a natural leverage that comes with being in the right seat.

I wondered what else I could accomplish.