#ThisIsMyRide by Andy Mailly-Pressoir
“This Is My Ride” is a series where we share the most memorable, unique, or challenging rides from our community. Maybe it’s a first century ride, an epic climb, or a regular Sunday ride with friends: we want to hear about that special something which makes this particular ride epic for you – and your Argon 18. Want to share your ride? Email us at marketing.web@argon18.com.
My first time on a road bike was four years ago. I had been approached to be part of the Veuve Clicquot x Argon 18 team for the Boucle du Défi Pierre Lavoie, a local fundraising ride in Montreal. I was riding on a bright yellow Krypton designed to reflect a brand of champagne - it didn't exactly go unnoticed... it’s a jewel that hangs today on my living room wall. That was also the first time I had ridden more than 100 km in one day. Every time I look at this bike it reminds me of that accomplishment.
Four years later, cycling has become much more than a hobby for me. Cycling is more than a sport, it is my therapy, my comfort zone, my little world on two wheels. We’re in a grueling and complicated time right now, but cycling gives me a bit of breathing room. This summer, I convinced my brother to buy a bike, and our favourite ride is a 115-120 km loop (3 Peak Loop) from my home (Saint-Lambert, Quebec) to Rougemont via La Route des Champs, to Mont Saint-Hilaire and Mont Saint-Bruno. It is the longest, most beautiful and most pleasant ride we have done this year. La Route des Champs is a journey through vineyards, orchards and country lanes. We always allow ourselves a little pit stop at the Cidrerie Michel Jodoin for a small cider. The scenery is magnificent, the Richelieu is always amazing and the Chocolaterie La Cabosse d'Or in the mountains at Otterburn Park is a must.
This summer, I had the chance to test ride a Krypton GF and a Krypton Pro. Comfort is the first word that comes to mind when referring to the Krypton. Its geometry and handling allow me to attack any surface without stress. For a rider who loves long rides like I do, this is the perfect bike. A real war machine.
Until the 4th of October I am riding for my sister Tamy. I am currently participating in the virtual edition of the Juritour to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Canada (Quebec Division), a cycling tour organized to help the 1200 Quebec children, adolescents and adults with cystic fibrosis.
I am doing it for Tamy who has the disease, but I am also doing it for my own wellbeing.
If you live in Quebec and would like to ride for the cause mentioned in Andy's story or make a donation, please click here.
Photos by Andy Mailly-Pressoir
