Pedals, bells and brakes

So, first off, I've seen the bike fitter again, and we changed the pedals on my bike.  I was using Shimano 105 before, and have now switched to speedplay.  The hope is that the free float will work better with my knees.  So far, it feels good, but I haven't had a chance to ride a lot on it.  That will come soon, but I'm optimistic already.

Now, although I haven't got to ride outside yet this year, there are others that have.  Most notably, Spud and Sweetpea.  Spud is getting pretty good on his bike and I suspect the training wheels will soon be gone.

Here he is, trying out an aero position for his next triathlon

 Sweetpea is also getting better, but there's still some work to be done.  One area that could use some focus is paying attention.  Last summer, I picked up a couple bells for Spud and my husband's bike.  They didn't get put on until this weekend, so of course the bells instead graced Spud and Sweetpea's bikes.  I'll have to get another one for Beejay.

She likes to go fast

The problem with the bell is the fact that she started the ride off by looking at the bell instead of where she was going.  It took many reminders to get her focused on the direction the bike was moving instead of ringing the bell.

Then, there's the brakes.  Her bike has coaster brakes, which means she has to pedal backwards to make them work.  It's been a challenge to convince her that there is any point in stopping.  Today was a victory!  I managed to teach her how to use her brakes and she actually started using them.

Of course, the rest of the ride this is what was coming out of her mouth (with actions to match): "and stop!  Now go!  and... stop!  Now go...)  Rinse, repeat.  I think she practiced using those brakes about every 3 seconds for the rest of the ride.

I'm looking forward to getting out myself.  It won't be long now until the trainer stops getting so much use.