Recovering from Bike Burnout...Tiny Habits

Thoughts on burning out on bikes and how I'm pulling out of it.
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[@neilchatterjee7644]

Russ, I don’t ride party pace. I’m a roadie. I don’t own a gravel bike. But it’s videos like this that make your channel one of my favorites. You engage with ideas that no other cycling KZbinr does. Great vid.

[@shawnwakeman6324]

At risk of over sharing, I have been so encouraged by your content. About eight years ago I was diagnosed as terminal and basically had my life fall apart. During years of being so sick I couldn’t leave the house my main hobby was building really inexpensive bicycles in my basement. I grew up around bicycle shops and had no concept of a “nice bicycle that is also comfortable“. The bikes I built I couldn’t even ride because they were so wildly uncomfortable, stretch out frames, low bars and aggressive seat height. But they looked dope like out of the magazines. My poor wife had to hear about you and your content basically every day as you slowly but surely changed my mind( I am still a work in progress) to be able to ride partypace and ride a comfortable bike. As funny as it sounds, no one ever had told me that my bike could be comfortable. So long comment aside. Thank you so very much for all the content that you have made, that has so encouraged me.

[@OriginalGabriel]

Eight years terminal, and you're still with us; sounds like bikes (whether you're riding them or not) are doing a damn fine job of keeping you fighting to stay with us. Stay with us brother, and I look forward to one day riding party pace with you.

[@BenitoAndito]

@Shawn Wakeman The humility and frankness of your comment is inspiring.

[@rollinrat4850]

Shawn, keep it up man. Never lose hope. I get why you build bikes. I might do the same in your shoes. My dad was 1/2 paralyzed from a stroke but never gave up hope. He went to a gym 3 days a week. He lived, (with Mom's angelic help) for another 8 years. They're my lifelong heroes. Just enjoy the time you spend on your bike and smile. Getting comfortable on the bike and practical about it is the key! It doesn't matter what THAT looks like! Vanity is meaningless! I spend enough time on really long rides that it's very difficult to find reliable riding partners. But I still can't ride enough! Its the RIDER, not the bike, never ever forget that!

[@ZachGallardo]

I've definitely experienced bike burnout both as a cyclist and as a KZbinr. When first starting as a "bike KZbinr," it became such a big part of my identity that I also felt effects of the impostor syndrome whenever I didn't want to ride my bike or make videos. I put a lot of pressure on myself, probably unhealthily so, to make my dream of riding bikes for a living a reality. I also felt burnout when riding became a chore, specifically when I tried riding 30 miles every day for 30 days for a video. Turning a bike ride into "training" is the quickest way to suck the fun out of riding and to start resenting the bike. Turns out, it's perfectly healthy to get sick of doing the same thing over and over even if you loved doing it before. Over the years, I've learned that one of the hardest things to do as a KZbinr is separate your personal from your professional life, but it's also one of the most important things to do to continue loving what you do. I also designate rides that are strictly for me and rides that are for making content. They're both fun, but they're completely different mentally and need separation. Cycling and KZbin are important parts of my life, but are not THE most important parts of my life. I have family; I have friends; I have a dog; these are more important. Now I just do whatever I find fun, for both riding and for KZbin, and my life is all the better for it. Delete Strava. Ride whatever puts a big, dumb smile on your face. Stay reasonably dangerous.

[@BartAnderson_writer]

Healthy attitude! You're another of my must-watch bike KZbinrs. All best wishes...

[@clacclackerson3678]

Love your work Zach!

[@brianbechtol7329]

Well said

[@emersoncardenas6899]

Russ and Zach are both inspirational. I don't agree with everything you guys post, but it's still a pleasure observing the experiences you have. Bravo gentlemen, and keep on keeping on.

[@aubreyxengland]

this is cool. we need more honest and personal bike journalism like this.

[@PumpkinVillage]

Party pace works not just in biking but life. Take care of yourself and Laura. Really like your channel. Take care, Al

[@ddcycleman]

That’s one reason why I have more than 1 hobby that I’m passionate about. Wether it be injury or just needing a break, when either situation happens, I just “shift gears”. If I have a nagging knee issue, I sea kayak, if my wrists bother me, I ride my bike.

[@jev2867]

As a cyclist I found my family, the PartyPace. I no longer have the desire to measure up to anyone. My only expectation is that I go out riding and exploring at my own happy party pace.

[@davidc544]

Party pace is where it’s at. Just peddle.

[@rollinrat4850]

You got it! When I was road racing, the guy who got me hooked on MTB often lagged way behind and rode his own pace. It took me 20 more years to realize why I respected that, way back when. It's ALL about maximizing fun and time spent rolling around on two wheels!

[@georgewachsmuth9201]

I totally agree. First off, let me say that I love bike riding. At 63, I have had a few burnouts. All of them happened when I turned this activity I loved into some sort of competition rather than doing something I love. I now ride 150 to 250+ miles a week in season. I just ride….check out nature….enjoy the open air…..etc. I get fit just doing it. I never do group rides (No…I. am not an introvert..lol)…I ride 6 days a week. It is the most holistic act that I do. It benefits me mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Excellent video and very relevant….

[@chuckfrizzell8668]

Hello George, I’m 62 and have been a road cyclist since 1988. I think the biggest mistake I have made is becoming part of Strava. All the training and pressure to perform is too much. When I was younger I won a lot of local events. But now at my age, who am I going to race? What am I going to win? I recently started riding my mountain bike on bike paths and gravel. There’s no one to race and cycling is suddenly fun again. Thanks for listening. Chuck, Colorado Springs, CO.

[@srflan]

@@chuckfrizzell8668 agree about the negatives with strava, so much is lost when it's only the metrics

[@dcallan1]

You're the most intelligent and interesting bike content creator on KZbin. I enjoy and relate to this video myself.

[@alexdi1367]

Burnout found me when I was riding to improve my Strava times on uncomfortably aggressive bikes. The peak was when I bought a power meter. The idea of 'training' (for what?) at that level of accuracy was so discouraging that I didn't swing a leg over a bike in the two months following. Eventually I realized that not only don't I have to compete with anyone else, I don't even have to compete with younger me. I just got back from a ride I've done a hundred times; I don't know how fast I went and I don't care. But I enjoyed it.

[@TexasNightRider]

I just purchased a power meter and already have buyer's remorse.

[@bcmtnbka]

Thank you for sharing!! I have been riding bikes for 30 years and have experienced burn out a few times. I learnt that there is nothing wrong in taking breaks. I literally walked away a few times and did something else. Once I rediscover my passion for cycling, my love for this lifestyle/sport grows stronger every time. and your channel has been an inspiration during this pandemic!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks for getting real with us. I'm suffering really bad burn out now after a 1K tour north to south through Texas. I have a small channel that never grows even when you work your ass off to create content and that definitely takes the fun out of it. I decided when it comes to KZbin I will just watch and when it comes to my bikes, I will just ride. I love my bikes and it will come back. Keep it fun

[@ForeverDownByLaw]

Used to care about my speed and distance, then I took the computer off my bike. Now I ride without the constant performance metric and enjoy myself like when I was younger without the performance nanny. Makes me happier.

[@daveebert7747]

I am the same way. When I go for a ride people will ask, are you on Strava or how many miles did you do. I always answer " oh I had about 2 hours of fun".

[@cliffmcleroy8168]

I few years ago I switched from a plain computer to strava on my phone. With the mileage being recorded automatically, I set the goal of 5200 miles/year, 100/week average. Some years I've hit it and some I haven't but I have found it to be both motivating and discouraging. Also it seems to discourage me from mtb rides and more difficult road rides since it cuts into the mileage. I like a lot of the features on Strava, but I need to find a way to peel myself away from the 100 mile/week mindset.

[@daveebert7747]

Hey Cliff I know what you mean. A number of years ago I ran 10km races. I use to love running but then it became training. Everything was measured. Everything was time vs distance. Sucked the joy right out of running and I quit. I love bikepacking and the only goal is to make it to the predetermined campsite each night.

[@peglor]

Since the battery in my Garmin got too weak to last 5-6 hours with the screen on, I've been running it on power save where it turns the screen off, only activating it when I hit a button or touch the screen. It brought home to me how little all those numbers matter. It's still nice to have a log of the route, but I don't need all the information while I'm out. Previous to trying the Garmin I probably rode for 10 years without a speedometer of any description though, so it was almost like going back to an old habit I'd forgotten rather than any sense of missing out on something.

[@donhuber9131]

I love your term, "performance nanny"! I usually ride alone these days, but if somebody wants to ride with me, I tell them to choose between their computer or me.

[@OriginalGabriel]

Been a lifelong cyclist, everything by bike, my entire life (only bought a van last year, at 45, because I needed a means to camp solo ... got to love quarantine); everyone always asks me, since I toast so many people on rides, "why don't you race", and my answer is always the same "I don't want to take something I love to do, and turn it into a competition". Even the "social" rides are turning more and more competitive, so I don't do any of those either. I just ride. Some days I pack a hammock, and go in search of the perfect spot to take a nap; some days I pack my coffee kit, and head off to make a cup of coffee and stare at the water; this year, I'll be throwing fly fishing into the mix (and I can that you and Laura for that ... should have happened last year, but the rod I wanted was backordered for close to a year); with them all, I just ride. No racing, no chasing KOMs, just riding, and exploring.

[@bonbonflippers4298]

You sir is what I call a matured individual of the hobby you love to do. It's when you have fully understood the hobby and what it does for you and how it entertains or benefits you and not for anyone's interest or opinion. Something I learned after years of weightlifting...where everyone is comparing or counting numbers. Matured to the point where I see only myself in the gym mirror and focus the feeling of relieving stress :) Doing something for the wrong reasons will make anyone burnout.

[@tensaimon]

@@bonbonflippers4298 I hear you on the weightraining, took me a while to let go of the need to get stronger and just do it for the enjoyment, the challenge, the feeliing of using my muscles...

[@fayleya3865]

So glad it’s not just me! We were training with a friend for a bike tour (Paris to Spain), and our tall cycling buddy kept coaching me and insisting I pedaled at the same cadence as him. I’m tiny short and ride a small frame! My cranks going at his cadence isn’t going to work. It soured the whole experience for me and I was relieved when Clovid happened the week before we were flying out!

[@juliapoelstra3624]

That's tough. Friendships in cycling can get complicated sometimes eh? I've had to walk away or set boundaries with people who insist I'm not doing things "right".... I hope you can still do that tour or something even better.

[@ajoyce]

I've been biking for many years. I have 3 bikes I love where I bike all year. I decided to just go hiking instead this year. I'm not sure when I'll get back to bikes but I think it was due to me trying to beat my last years mileage goals. It became a job. I would love to do casual social rides but that is about all that seems appealing to me. This video hit home.

[@turn1210]

A few days ago I was watching one of your videos and thinking, this channel Is SO GOOD! Every few weeks you have an interesting bike for us all to look at. You may not be winning races or competing in everything going but In your own field of KZbin, you’re a world champion.

[@spectre9801]

Food for thought. When I saw the title of this video I figured I wouldn't make it through. In a flash it was over and I really enjoyed listening. You have a great way of speaking and articulating your thoughts, it just draws you in. Thanks for sharing and keep up the great work. Sometimes life is a grind regardless of what you do.

[@kylefitzgerald4616]

I felt like this when after I quit racing. I didn’t ride a bike for a year and got into motorcycles. I started to despise motorcycles, too much work and money. I started getting back into mtn bikes. I took up road riding too. It comes in cycles. ( no pun intended)

[@cobykluth1878]

Russ hitting all the right notes all we party pace cyclers need to hear, getting us back to basics. Needed this, thanks Russ.

[@smg222]

Hope both/and is ok. I am supremely inspired by your party-pace methodology, but I am equally inspired by grunting out an endurance event. Seems to me you didn’t fail in that event you did, you learned a ton about yourself and your intrinsic motivations.

[@astro61362]

Thanks Russ. We really enjoy your biking and fill in the blank. We love biking and coffee especially. We love your biking and fly fishing shows. We look forward to Laura's improved health as my wife and I really enjoy the shows where both of you are riding together.

[@0guiteo]

I love your videos, and they strike a cord for me. I'm not a You Tuber, or a big bike nut, but I am a psychologist, and am always paying attention to people's mood and motivation. This video is not (that much) about bicycling, but about being a person, and finding what's of value. Most of us (males) build our identity around our work/vocation/profession. And, it's really common for us to eventually not be sure that we like what we are doing. It's the sign of being an intelligent person to question our activities and the meaning of our lives. I honor your efforts - and agree with your suggestions to make small goals that are easy to attain as well as more difficult ones that challenge us. I like to ride party pace 30-50 miles a week on my Surly LHT - and try to go on the fun (easy) rail trails. I find your videos so entertaining. Keep it up. And, I will buy some merch to help.

[@johnstarky]

Thank you for being REAL and for REPRESENTING THE MAJORITY OF CYCLISTS!

[@BradWadeNL]

I found that when I became a father, priorities had to change, but I still identified as a cyclist. Luckily my wife recognized that cycling is a major passion of mine and a form of mediation. She encourages me to ride. I use that time wisely and really enjoy riding again.

[@rollinrat4850]

My wife is the same. She's always given me the space to ride or ski if we could afford it. Who we spend our lives with is one of life's greatest decisions. It just happens that today's our anniversary! 33 years went by in a blur!

[@BradWadeNL]

@@rollinrat4850 I agree! Congratulations on 33 years! I wish you many more happy years for you both!

[@andrewwilliamson4404]

Russ, was just listening to you today and heard you say “Laura got diagnosed with cancer”. I understand how this can change your perspective, especially when it is someone you can’t imagine your life without. Although I do not know you guys I appreciate your time and attention to cycling, which has been super helpful to me personally. I hope she is recovering and cancer free, and that you both will be enjoying each other in 5 years and beyond as much as you clearly do today. Thanks again, Russ. You are the rock.

[@matthewguenther6925]

Thanks for sharing Russ. I know the struggle. I have loved cycling/biking since I first learned on a Western Flyer "Miss Buzz Bike" that was handed down to me by my Aunt. Riding it also helped me deal with my Mother's struggle with and death from cancer two years later. My Dad long distance proposed to my (step)Mom (who had lived in Missoula for a bit) while she was bike touring around Europe with her brother (a Bikecentennial ride leader). I joined my jr/sr high school's bike touring club, later became president (for 3 years) organizing week long end of year tours, fun rides, overnighters, and even a couple "fun sized" triathlons. When I moved to SLO for college, I didn't do so well because I would skip class to go ride (Pismo & Avila Beach, Morro Bay, over Cuesta Grade, over "Poly Canyon Pass" on the Jeep trails through the sheep farms before they closed them off) It really cannot be overstated how much I love riding my bike (heck, I even feel joy sometimes when I am riding on an indoor trainer). Then I was nearly killed when I REALLY smashed up my bike against the side of a car. Afterwards I had a hard time feeling the love, even with a brand new "Holy Grail" Bridgestone road bike. I still rode but the pure joy I had previously felt was missing and eventually the riding stopped because I had gotten a car and the anxiety I felt getting ready to ride was sometimes overwhelming. 30-some years after that accident, I can still have a lot of anxiety before getting out the door and riding that first mile before the joy returns (or at least the existential dread fades). Honestly, your KZbin channel is one of the places that helped me get back into riding by reminding me of how much I enjoyed just riding "Hey, that was fun when I used to... -bring my rod and go fishing on some rides. -ride on some cool dirt/gravel trails. -bike tour. -just ride." So yeah, I get it, and I am totally on your side (even though I'm sure you probably think "Ugh, this a-hole again" when I comment :S ) On a separate note, do you have a fluorescent/neon fishing pole? The Sunday before last I saw someone on a nice bike with beefy tires and a front rack with one navigating the roundabouts north of 90 by the Albertsons (didn't get a good look because I was also navigating the roundabouts and it was pretty rainy). I was driving back from Bozeman (with a newly minted MSU alumni :) ) and was stopping for gas and food and thinking "It would be really funny if I saw Russ just biking around..." and then there was this guy riding a bike with a fishing pole, lol. Probably not you, but I thought I was a funny coincidence.

[@MaverickTube]

Thanks for sharing and not shying away from vulnerability.

[@ovash1]

This video really hit home because lately I've been, "dragging my axles" so to speak. I have wanted to ride and love doing it but just can't get motivated enough to get out the door. The thing that has helped me in the past is that my bike is on my home and lock screen on my phone. I have lots of pictures of it when it's under a tree or by the side of the road, or by the river. There are many pictures of it with my family. When I turn on my laptop or my home computer it's there on the desktop. It's a 1982 Trek 720, and I love that bike. When I look at it, it makes me happy, and that makes me want to ride. I have lots of bikes, but that one is my favorite. The only bike that I think I would want more is a Rivendell, Sam Hillborne. And that's your fault, Russ, because I had never heard of them until I started watching your videos. So thanks, and at the same time, how could you do that to me? Love the channel, keep up the good work.

[@davidmassey9589]

Great content! Really well differentiated from the normal cycling fare, and so relevant! Genuinely appreciated, as I routinely oscillate between mundane local routes and epic explorations. I'm on the bike pretty much every day, but still (sometimes) wonder if the commitment is one of love or obligation.

[@bonnefires5835]

Whatever it takes to keep you going! Some times it might feel like work, some times it might feel like fun. In either case, I love what you do and I am here for it.

[@slowwerthensnot]

It’s difficult when your passion and what pays the bills both involve bikes , as a mechanic for over 20 years it’s at times difficult to separate the motivations... Thanks for the vid! FD

[@eugenedebruin3694]

This content, like most of your episodes, is on point. Long live party pace!

[@thombatty1950]

You and I have this in common, we both decided to make a perfectly good hobby into our life's work. That adds additional pressure and can take the fun out of it. For me and at this time, party pace is more stressful, because that is usually how I am introducing new riders to the activity, so I feel a lot of pressure to make it fun and accessible, and I need to be the one capable of fixing anything that goes wrong on the ride. My stress relief is to go out solo and spend an hour plus in the pain cave. Keep it up, Russ, you creating great content.

[@kaffeemitcola6506]

For me as an older guy who always loved cycling and I am still a cyclist with passion, I look back on a life of changes. In the last century roadcycling was one of my bike-loves. The ages and health problems hit me hard and the infinite power in the legs the extreme wattage for hours went down and some things went their natural way. Not easy but I felt that I should not fight against resistances that no one can overcome. I think its always good to reflect from time to time about what you are doing and the reasons why you are doing something. And one thing that helped the most was seeing alternatives. Not every vacation hast to be on a bike. Hike in the mountains and after two weeks seeing and falling in love with the bike again. // A bike Burnout can also be caused by ignored warning signals from the body over long term. Liebe Grüße und ALLES GUTE RUSS. ...its a lot this time for you and Laura.

[@debbieschwartz3132]

The way I ride has completely changed from road, to all stats, pacelines, road rallies etc. It all went faded away when I suddenly lost my ride partner. He had introduced me to gravel and mtbing and riding to fun and exploration. So now riding to seeing beautiful areas and paths riding to pubs and cool coffee shop is way more my thing. Plus road riding is much more dangerous now and lost friends to motor vehicle/ bike accidents....im into partypace and having fun and enjoying the ride. Great video and I appreciate the realness.

[@ridgewoodvarietytimelivefr9008]

Very cool and inspiring of you to be taking motivated steps through tough times and even cooler to share and communicate about it so clearly and honestly. I’d like to offer a small statement of gratitude that somehow communicates to you a kind of pressure release to help you not feel guilty or inadequate when reassessing/resting/relaxing/eating/sleeping to recharge and find a good work/content/life balance. Take your sweet time good sir! All paces welcome in life and bikes! 🙂 ❤️

[@TomasQuinones]

Woof. It's really a drag. Just dug myself out of that hole. This past weekend I ended a 50 day streak of at least 11 miles a day (Loop around Smith and Bybee Lakes) with some longer rides sprinkled in there, ended with a 124 mile epic mix surface ride that finally forced me to take a couple of rest days. So worth it. Now I'm amped about bikes again, getting fit, ready for more long rides.

[@cd6497]

This is deep. What you say about biking can be applied to all aspects of life where burnout is a potential. I work in a field (education) where burnout is a huge issue but no one will talk about it. Also, your observations about identity/identifying as a cyclist and burnout - great food for thought. Thank you for this.

[@davidcummings5826]

This isn’t just about bikes, it’s about life. Truly one of your best videos. I use your mantra of Partypace to keep myself from turning every ride into a PR-attempt. You help us slow down and smell the flowers. You are inspiring, Russ.

[@Joshua_Nikolai]

Yep, I worked at bike shops for years, and then moved on to a larger mountain bike company. I got totally burnt out on the industry and bikes and only now, like eight years later, am I hopping back on the bike. Only this time I’m sitting upright, have a Wald basket, and regular clothes. 😆 Having your hobby as a job call can be a drag for sure. Great video man!

[@pambikes6030]

Every bike is a fun machine. The problem with big events is the massive anticipation then the expectation. And it's so hard to accomplish. You be You! You inspire so many people. I love that you are human and like all of us. Not some uber athlete. You introduce so many people to the cool, new stuff and the useful, practical things that make it more fun. Thank you for what you do!

[@expeditionimmersive5053]

Thank you!!! This happened to me when I dropped out of the Race Across the West. My van broke down, which was also my house and support crew vehicle. I was completely exhausted and had so many people supporting me financially, spiritually and emotionally. I have no real desire to compete in a supported race again, something about being so emotionally controlled and fueled by seeing my van cruise past me on the back of a flatbed truck killed my mental strength.

[@josephredbeard2137]

for what it’s worth, this channel is probably one of the only things that kept me connected and in any way stoked about bikes when my first “burnout” came about a year ago. strangely, it was “training” for a ride across my state that year that got me stoked in it again. treating it like a tour of my state by bike instead of a lofty goal race feel made it all the more accessible in my brain AND allowed me to finish in good standing daily AND feel great every day. thanx y’all.

[@sheilastallard]

We had a bike burn out....it lasted 10 years, went dinghy sailing instead. Came back to it found you and other's. I have said in the past you and Laura helped us to choose our Bromptons. Keep Safe the two of you. Love from England xx

[@nickporter3531]

A very open description of burnout. Excellent

[@GMoneyLove]

I think there is something to be said, in general, for the mental stress we've all been under since the pandemic hit. Even if you aren't aware of it, it's there, and we are just beginning to see the other side, while still addressing different issues facing our society. Its a lot when added to jobs, families, relationships... and trying to stay passionate about something we love and enjoy like cycling. I watch, read, and take part in cycling and it has buoyed me over the last few years. Yet I too and feeling burnt out and unmotivated to jump on my bike at the moment. This video is timely and appreciated, Russ, because I hear where you are coming from. Finding those little things that remind you why you enjoy cycling and the energy that comes from is important, as is taking breaks when you need to. I'm hoping now that we are seeing the light get brighter at the end of the tunnel (and its not the train) that the social side of in-person cycling will develop back and feel normal and that will help make all the difference. Cheers.

[@MarcS4R]

As a Photographer, i have experienced it with Photography, specially with during covid...

[@Jeff.Slavich]

I appreciate the honesty. There isn't much of that out there these days, but it's one of the things that I've always loved about your channel.

[@nmcheese]

I appreciate your approach of bikes as enablers of other things - fishing, painting, coffee outside-ing. In the early days of the pandemic lockdown last year I set myself a minimum 10 miles a day work from home commute solo ride goal, as a way to safely see the world outside the house. It worked pretty well for a few months, but then the routes became stale and it was just a daily workout task. In the later half of the year I picked up an old mountain bike, which opened up a whole new set of trails and different skills, and allowed me to be a noob again and have to learn. I think variety, exploration and learning are key to not letting the brain define something as a routine event.

[@BarryJohnsonSC]

Thank you for doing this video! Your story makes me feel better about my own times of "burnout" with various hobbies and even my career. I appreciate you and Laura and all the good work you do!

[@Darkscipher]

I needed this today. Thank you for your honest heart and words, Russ.

[@ronanmclaughlin4235]

I've been struggling with this for the first time ever the past few weeks. Very fortunate timing! Thanks for taking the time to make a video and talk about this!

[@jcsrst]

Thanks so much for sharing this! It's an important topic that is not discussed too often. As an older female cyclist I have struggled this year with burnout. I joined my local cycling club 2 years ago and with the pandemic and lack of races it's turned into an all out competitive challenge every weekend. Last year I pushed myself beyond what I thought I was capable of but I will never be as fast or strong as people half my age. I became so unhappy with riding with other people that I've quit the club. Right now I am working my way back to loving my bike. As Teddy Roosevelt said, "comparison is the thief of joy." I am almost 60 and have ridden bikes my entire life and they have always been a source of great joy, when I lost that for a moment I was heart broken. It became my mission to put the joy back into riding. So I ride alone and that's my happy place. I wish you all the happiness and love that cycling and life have to offer!!

[@davidklotz11]

Discovering your channel gave me a new lease on bike life. My life kinda fell apart over the past few years dealing with autoimmune issues, fatigue and heart palpitations. I had to change my entire view of what it meant to ride, and this channel was the perfect landing destination. I had to change my whole mindset from how fast and hard I could ride to just enjoying being able to get on a bike and ride whatever pace I could tolerate. I purchased the feedback sports stand you reviewed and started doing more of my own work on my bike, took the whole damn thing apart and put it back together, messed some stuff up along the way but learned so much. I've spent most of the past year riding on a trainer to avoid heart palpitations, but was able to get back outside recently and figure out how to manage outdoor riding on more of a "party pace" and it was a success. You really make a difference man, you've helped me find a manageable place in cycling and be ok with my limitations. Reading some of the other comments it looks like you've had a huge impact on lots of people. So just wanted to say a huge thank you, and lots of positive vibes to you and Laura.

[@twowheeler1662]

Every obsession eventually meets reality. The survival key is keeping what works and letting go of what doesn't. Accept that your life and responsibilities change with time due to no fault of your own. A job is just that. Its a role that pays you. Its okay to find new passions even if its something not as socially popular.

[@fotografamos4083]

Creative burnout (no just from bikes) is a real thing. I'm a photographer and I go through the winter blues every year and it's a real struggle to get out of the funk. Or it was, until I came across this channel and all the good content you put out. Learning to appreciate the ride and not just focus on metrics was a real game changer for me. Party pace is indeed a motto to live by on many aspects in life. Thank you Russ, for all your effort. We are here with you - even if only virtually.

[@barrybogart5436]

For a photographer, cycling is ideal. You go slow enough to SEE everything and can stop instantly anywhere to capture what you want. If you tour on a bike, there is nothing like riding into some small remote town, totally non-threatening and being surrounded by the locals, especially kids who are so thrilled just to see someone who cares enough about them to visit. It is magic.

[@roadbikecommuter5355]

that is exactly what happens to me as well from time to time, especially during the spring when I start preparing for a couple of sportives, then I start questioning everything , asking myself "why?" and then one day I discovered your youtube channel and was pleasently relieved to finally find someone who does not necessarily talk about cycling as a sport being exclusively reserved for those who intend to race, compete, take part in events, want to cycle as fast as possible, be as aero as possible, etc., which makes an average person feel outside and not even deserving to call himself/herself a cyclist in any context, so huge thanks to you and Laura for being a warm and pleasant surprise on youtube, I wish Laura and you all the best!

[@zachinsights]

Thank you for sharing, Russ. I also periodically get burned out and have to remind myself of that joy and my goals with my bike projects, but it always comes back and hopefully will continue to!

[@zepolekul]

Thanks Russ for your honesty. I have fully embraced your partypace mantra. Been following you two for a long time and you guys have helped me and my wife fall in love with bicycle/train travel and not being afraid of being 200lbs and throwing the leg over the steel frame and going out for a ride. All while wearing jorts and wearing Saucony’s on flat pedals. Thank you to you and Laura.

[@bobqzzi]

This is a really, really great video. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Often whether I ride a century or sit in my chair all day and eat ice cream has hinged having my clothes and bike right at hand to blast out the door as soon as I wake up. If I opened a computer, I was doomed.

[@dtbrooks7325]

Russ Biking became a key to clearing my mind when my wife was diagnosed with cancer. There were several episode important to me -- one was cranking out of the canyon after a ride on the White Rim Trail. I have never raced, never kept metrics, and never had so much as an odometer on my bike. I am sometimes caught off guard when asked how long a trail is or what speed I maintain. It is not how I define my sport.

[@MrGrenadeMcBoom]

I stopped racing and riding in college. Didn't touch the bike again for years. Then I saw my first Lucas Brunelle video and bought a single speed. Now I'm faster then when I was racing but still in love with it.

[@anniebikes7002]

I hear ya, and it's okay. Separation between work and play is healthy. Thanks for your honesty. We're all human.

[@thielaut]

I had a bike burn out during a long tour around the world that last 4 years. I was feeling super anxious just looking at my bike in the morning. Took a year long break and now it's love again 🙂

[@SpelemanAfPipa]

Like the ”Iceman” say: ”Don’t think too much, just do it”... A good advice actually, if I start to overthink and plan a ride too much I wont come out, no matter if it is a bike ride or a outdoor run. And a good method that you pointed out, have your goals set in small steps as it makes the “Iceman” statement a whole lot of easier to achieve. Thank you Russ for the work you are doing with this channel! I appreciate it a lot.

[@scottcottontx]

Very timely, I've been suffering through bike burn out since Thanksgiving. I feel like I'm close to wanting to get back out there, but not quite there yet.

[@SlyNinja16]

This is such a necessary video, thank you for being so personal and comfortable with sharing all of this. I find it fitting how this video and Propel’s latest video came out at the same time, both of you spoke about similar topics. For me, cycling has always been a way to have fun and explore the world in a new way, but so much of the bike industry is catered towards competitive and race specific bikes, that it can really turn off new people from cycling. There’s a sort of pretentiousness that I’ve picked up by many cyclists in my area who brag about their 10,000$ bike but talk like this just discourages new riders from even taking up cycling. We have a long way to go in changing the overall image of cycling but videos like this one and Propel’s video give me hope that eventually people will look at cycling as a way of transportation that doesn’t have to be competitive or so damn expensive.

[@moderndroneman]

This video couldn't have come at a better time. Been cycling 100+km every week for the last year and suffering from a bit of bike burnout these last two weeks - haven't ridden once. Thanks for sharing.

[@gohome99]

Russ, Thank you for the work you do. Wishing you and Laura the best!

[@goodoleme747]

Make your own adventure. That's what I really like about cycling coming from a running background...You can plan a nice weekend, log tons of miles and make awesome memories.

[@Joshuakoffmansculpture]

Thanks Russ. Totally! I love bikes. I commute, as well as joy ride on the weekends. But I always find excuses not to commute. Then, as I drive to work and see all the people biking and running, I wish would have just “suited up” to ride. Thank you for sharing. You are an inspiration.

[@edinelsonramirez5656]

I solute you very much on all that you do. I can relate a little to your feelings...I love to plein air paint, fish, pan for gold and bike. Making the decision can leave me feeling a little guilty sometimes. I can only do one thing at a time! You have so much more on your plate ...pace yourself is all we can do! Hang in there!

[@mattkoulermos]

this might be my favorite video you've made so far. your words apply to so much in life, especially all things creative. thank you for sharing!

[@peglor]

What always gets me back on the bike is the process of thinking of certain scenic/challenging sections of the routes I ride and getting curious about how they're looking if I haven't been there in a while. Just thinking about when the last time I rode through a particular trail or past a certain landmark while I'm off the bike seems to act as an incentive to get out and have a look. I also love routes that can't be covered better by any other vehicle, so mixing road, forest trail, deer track and segregated singletrack with no motor vehicles allowed, all on the one spin means there is no better way to see all I can see in one day than by bike.

[@gicking3898]

Everything you said resonates with me at this moment. I think I'll be taking your advice and just setting little goals, small steps, to cycle again. Thanks for the video. Really appreciate it.

[@daveh5154]

Nicely recognised. Been riding for 42 years now, mostly road, and raced for lots of years. Enthusiasm ebbs and flows but accepting that as being ok really helps to stay in the flow of cycling. Cheers for all the vids.

[@ianmagnuson1626]

Spot on! I have definitely experienced bike burnout. When I first got into biking a few years ago, I went all in. I got a second hand Salsa El Mar, did a century, started learning how to wrench, and eventually got a job doing exactly that...but making your hobby your job is rarely a good idea. After spending my 9-5 talking bikes, I’d get off and not want to ride or even think about bikes because it felt like work. After that, I got burnt out because of an injury. After putting miles and miles down for several years, I found myself unable to climb even the smallest hill or just go a few miles, and it became obvious I needed to take a step back and give my body a rest. I am glad I had good friends and virtual outlets (like this channel) to get me through my burnouts and get me back to the basics!

[@e.con0210]

I was just getting into biking and was watching you prep for dk200 and saw your transformation. It helped confirm your joy for “party pace”. I think you’ve helped a lot of people understand the same through your experience and I’m grateful for what you shared. This last year has burned out a lot of people with all kinds of goals and other personal stressors. This video you made hopefully does help with the other things you’re doing to overcome the burnout. And best wishes to Laura.

[@AmarChadgar]

I really love abs appreciate this video. For me, when the burnout hits, the guilt of not putting in miles after having spent so much money, time, and identity/personality on it just cripples me mentally. Also very encouraging to see all these comments in here openly talking about it.

[@normdouglas]

Love your honesty. I’ve spent a lifetime in bikes and at times made a living from it. I still battle with this almost everyday yet I still ride often. Refreshing to hear you say this. I’m sure the pressure to create content only adds to it all.

[@williambuckett2147]

Agree that winter in colder climates can make it difficult to get back into it. Got around this winter by getting a Pelaton. Made a big difference, almost seamless when the good weather came around. Good for rainy days too. Decided not to worry about races, speed and just smell the roses, Trying to be content and find joy in the simple act of riding.

[@lisagraham943]

It's like you have been saying on me here in Pdx. After being on the trainer all winter and committing to a 545 mile ride with 29k of climbing next, I have bike burnout!! Trying to pull myself out of the hole, yesterday was sunny and 80 and I didn't even ride. Tomorrow is a new day. Thank you for sharing!

[@wesleywright7322]

Love honesty like in this video . Sometimes being real is so much more interesting than just the content.

[@ashleybrownau]

Thanks so much for sharing - I’ve been grappling with this myself for the past few years too. Slowly getting my bike mojo back, especially having gotten into gravel riding and more ‘party pace adventures with friends’ over the past 6 months or so, and have found your channel really inspiring and motivational as I’ve worked my way through my own bike burnout.

[@mmau]

I had it too! I then switched from my road bike to a Midnight Special and started Bikepacking and all was good! Also party pace helps! Love M

[@kathardt-holoch4361]

Thanks for this. Very interesting and heartfelt. My main goal in riding is to get out of the house, take a break from work, smell plants blooming, see some small change or new thing on the ride (if I am riding my normal "weekday" ride), and feel the breeze. There have been days when I lack motivation, but then I remember that I generally don't feel as good on days I don't ride and regret not going. Just that reminder gets me out on the bike. By the time I get to the end of the street, I'm already glad that I'm riding.

[@darrylengel5738]

Russ, I only follow a couple of bike sites, yours being one. I am in my late 50’s and a heart attack survivor at the age of 49. Your channel has kept me motivated to take those regular rides. Sure I have a wimpy 4 mile commute, but I take longer rides and try to make the. fun rather than a death ride. Sometimes hard to do in hilly Seattle. Thanks for being their for us!

[@dougnevitt2257]

Thank You for the honesty. I rode hard in race training mode for years, and started to dread it, it hurt more as I got older, and at the same time I couldn’t ride as fast. Bought a gravel bike, and a MTB, and quit training and looking at cyclometer all the time, and, low and behold, I’m having fun again. It’s not my identity anymore, it’s my play time

[@ginacicotello404]

Yes yes, great topic! I had to reject the “gotta do” thinking and find the joy again. Now I go for frequent 5-10 mile rides to meet people for coffee, and longer trips when I want a challenge.

[@broganbeam]

What a great video. Thank you for being so open and honest about your experience.

[@ritjobbie]

I’m training for DK200 right now. I am soooo over it. Riding on the trainer all winter sucked. Today I ignored my training plan and rode my bike for me. And now I’m a little more excited about riding again. Thank you for awesome, honest, and genuine content.

[@afinch91]

Really enjoyed this video, Russ. I go through periods of lacking cycling motivation in waves. Losing bike commuting/group rides in 2020 and continuing into 2021 really impacted how often I rode, and I had to reframe my cycling habits. Urban cycling can also be such a grind with hostile drivers. Some days it is still hard to get the gear on and get out of the house, but I know riding always makes me feel so much better. Very relatable video and love the honesty 💕

[@robinankeny9105]

Really enjoyed this video... love the honesty! The small steps/goals idea hit home. Need to continually remind myself to just get out there. Thanks for the channel.

[@bobmartin2447]

Wow. I can replace ‘cycling’ with other passion I have too. Photography and music. Thank you for this video. One of your best!

[@wsmvolunteers8588]

Thank you for your honesty, I respect what you do with your life and appreciate that you share so much of yourself with subscribers. I returned to cycling about a year ago when the pandemic closed the gym where I did cardio and resistance work. I haven't experienced bicycle burnout but I have with other things that became a burden instead of a source of joy. Life is short, do what you love.

[@flyryguy]

This video was super well timed for me, thank you. I had a crash at the end of last summer and an unrelated surgery that followed, keeping me off the bike for most of the back half of 2020. Since getting back on the bike I hadn't really been feeling the same love for it that I remembered. I had been tracking all my numbers and pushing myself to my max on most rides to try to regain some of the fitness I lost while on the mend, and in the process I had really been sucking the fun out of it. A few weeks ago I finally remembered to stop and take some breaks, watch the river and the birds for a while... reconnect with what I really loved about cycling in the first place. It's really been helping and it helped even more to hear you, someone that inspires me, describe going through something similar. It's not just me! Phew...

[@raphaelcastro3673]

Perfect timing. 🙏 I appreciate this and you.

[@smailsteve]

These are the party pace words of learned wisdom we all need to hear, for bikes and for life. Thank you for digging in and sharing this introspective part of your journey.

[@sw8536]

Great conversation, Russ. Honest, mature, real. Thank you for sharing what we all experience no matter the subject.