When can I expect riding to become enjoyable?
 

So I have been riding 8-10 miles for almost 3 weeks now, almost every day. I will be going to every other day primarily due to elbow pain issues, as well as thigh soreness. But I digress. In all honesty, there is nothing I enjoy all that much about it. I want to quit the first couple of miles almost every single time. Somehow, I've manage to always complete the predetermined route, usually with a bit of tiredness.

I thought I'd enjoy the scenery of streets and trails I've never seen before. Nope. I thought I enjoy getting out a lot more having been shuttered in during the pandemic. Not so much. And I genuinely hate with a passion every overpass and underpass that I have to go through. But even having said all that, I have a strong compulsion to keep going every single time and especially before the ride begins. I've never cut off a ride earlier than I planned. I feel forced to ride before the journey begins so it's certainly not a lack of motivation problem. Which is a bit unusual because knowing myself I could have easily given up for good after the first few days/a week.

I don't have any plans to quit any time soon. I'm not sure if I do it for the fitness. I think definitely to some extent. I don't think I do it just to play with the shiny new toy. So I guess all that is background for should I expect to get to a place where I like it more? Would a much better bike make it more enjoyable? I currently ride a 3 speed entry level bike. I think enjoy it for the most part but don't have a comparative basis.

Sell the bike and watch TV

Part of it could be a fitment issue. As for you not enjoying being out there, I'm not sure how to respond to that, as I have been cycling most of my life (from 3 years old). Not because of "fitness", but because I enjoy it. Maybe cycling just isn't for you?

But before you give up, go to someone who knows about bike fit (-ment). You probably have at least your saddle too low and too far forward or back, maybe your handlebars are too low/high, too far forward, or whatever. It's difficult to say much of anything without actually seeing you on the bike, and hopefully also to check if something is wrong with the wheel hubs or whatever.

Edit: Elbows hurting can either be because your handlebars are too straight, that they're too wide, that you cycle with straight arms and "locking them". Or all of the above.

Plan shorter rides and plan just to take it easy and "smell the roses" sounds like you are treating it as a chore instead of a treat. In my opinion a nice bike makes a big difference more enjoyable to ride.

Sounds like a plan.

I cant imagine participating in a hobby I dont enjoy.

Nobody here knows when you will start to enjoy your hobby.

Every time I get on a bike, it puts a ****-eating grin on my face. Even if it’s just to ride down the block for groceries.

Maybe cycling isn’t for you.

I tried fishing once. Bought some gear (not expensive), and quickly realised that although I liked the idea of fishing, I didn't actually like fishing. I'd rather be on my bike or out rowing or sailing. I'm not going fishing again ever. When I want fish, I buy some.

You may Like Pig walking?
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...6650e7e369.jpg

I wonder if that milky-coffee thing is for the pig or for her? "Here, walk the pig. And hold my cup too". Sort of like a reverse hold-my-beer moment.

Pig pee

:cheers:

Just guessing your conditioning is not that great so you are suffering too much to enjoy your short rides. It gets better so suck it up and stick with it. Try to find some local roads and trails you would find interesting. Find a local C group ride to cut your teeth and see if having some company might perk your enjoyment.

Try gravel riding on a FG or SS bike. :lol:

Maybe you got the wrong type of bike. How about a tadpole trike. The are absolutely fun to ride.

2010 When I was 68 y/o My First 2,000 Mile month.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...68a78aaaab.jpg

If you’re not lacking motivation, set some goals and make a plan

Don't always ride a predetermined route, explore your town/city and you may find something new that interest you....a park, store, restaurant, etc.

As mentioned above, If you ride solo join up with a friend or group of others... sometimes solo rides can get boring.

Assuming that your fit is correct....when you achieve fitness you will find cycling more enjoyable.

I don't think many here can empathize with your situation. We all come here because we love cycling, even if we don't treat each other very well.

You need to find something you enjoy.

Maybe bicycle racing, or at least "training" would be just the ticket for the OP; no need for smiling with that hobby. It seems as if a "Pain IS Gain" attitude and taste for masochism would put him in good stead with that crowd. ;)
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...d882719200.jpg

You may be going out too often. Give yourself a day off in between rides. Once you get a comfortable base, try alternating long and short days.

I will reiterate that you should go on smaller trips to places you'd like to see, or perhaps just pack a lunch, ride to somewhere that would be nice to eat your lunch at, and then go home. See if you can find some small stuff "to do" like that, where it doesn't matter just how long your trip is. Go for a short ride to pick up some small and lightweight thing, go for lunch, ride to a place to pick berries, ride to a harbour if you like boats and are nearby, or even just ride to a mail box nearby, post your letter and take the scenic route both ways.
But you should get someone to check your bike-fit. I'm quite confident it will help you immensely.

That's the same way with every aerobic sport. When you are running, the first mile is always the toughest. You feel like stopping and going back home. Once you get over that hump then you can continue on for miles.

The secret to planning a good route is this: always go out with the headwind in your face, and finish in the direction with the tailwind. That way you always finish the ride feeling great.

YES. I am guessing your 3 speed bike is a utility type bike. That style of bicycle is designed for sauntering down to the corner store or the subway station down the block. It's not for riding 10 miles at a time. Get yourself a proper drop bar bike where you can stretch out your legs and put down some power. Those overpasses and underpasses will be fast and fun instead of an exercise in frustration.