I am currently in Japan for work. And quite recently, I just finished my first ever bike touring after a couple of procrastination due to worries and fear of the unknown. This is my longest bike ride so far.
I initially planned to go to Kyoto and Osaka from Nishio (Aichi Prefecture) which will take about 1-2 days but due to unfavorable circumstances, it was cut short. There was a sudden downpour and my left leg started aching so bad that I felt like I was basically pedaling with just one leg. Regardless, it was a priceless and memorable experience. I was still able to reached Kyoto and Osaka via local train. Good thing Japan’s transport system is very convenient.
During my ride, a lot of times I wanted to quit and turn back. Riding alone made me overthink that made me question the purpose of my journey. Thanks to music, I was able to filter out those thoughts and cleared my mind. My go-to track when I’m riding is a song titled “Karera” by BINI. Karera means “Race” in English but the song message is “Life is not a race. Just take it slow, at your own pace.” Its melody is very soothing and dreamy. The song’s overall vibe is very chill which is perfect for long rides.
How about you? What’s your go-to playlist or song for your long ride?
P.S. Please don’t mind my bike 😅 I bought it cheap from Amazon. Unlike most of the bikes posted here, it’s very heavy (20kg). I bought it because it’s a folding mountain bike. For those who don’t know, you can actually bring your bike inside a train in Japan, including bullet trains. Provided, you have a bike bag. 🙂
by l0neher0
2 Comments
I believe you went for a long bike ride, not so much a bike tour.. touring is typically multi day and you carry everything you need to live in your in panniers. Tent (if camping), food, clothes, cookware etc.
As for music, I do not listen to anything when I’m on the side of the road. I like being spatially aware of what’s going on.
Usually I enjoy the birds and wind noise, but when I’m bored cycling I listen to podcasts or an audiobook. But only off the road, when there’s no traffic.