Back in the Saddle

A Windy Ride Through the Desert

Today marked my first real ride in quite a while—and Arizona made sure I remembered what it’s like. Nearly 100 degrees and a steady wind out of the southeast made it feel more like a resistance training session than a ride. I could barely push 15 miles an hour on the flats, which is humbling when you’re used to cruising through the desert with ease.

Still, there’s something incredible about cycling here. Arizona is a cyclist’s dream—bike lanes just about everywhere, smooth roads, and usually very little wind (today being the rare exception). My route is one I’ve ridden many times before: weaving through Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and Scottsdale, climbing past Mummy Mountain, skirting around Camelback, and cruising along stretches of quiet canal paths. It’s a mix of suburban scenery, desert views, and the occasional glimpse of the mountains that frame the city.

There are a few climbs that always get me. On a good day, I might eke out 7 mph near the summit, lungs burning, legs screaming. But the payoff is real—on the descent, I’ve hit speeds over 40 mph. There’s nothing quite like flying down a hill with the wind rushing past, especially after a hard-fought climb.

What I love most about riding isn’t just the workout—it’s the space to think. Sometimes I ride in silence for an hour or two, no music, no distractions. It’s therapeutic. Today’s ride, even with the wind and heat, reminded me why I keep coming back to the bike. It’s a rhythm, a reset, a reminder of what my body and mind can still do.

If you’re curious what the route looks like, here it is from my March ride when it was much cooler.

Here’s to more miles, stronger legs, and maybe a little less wind next time.