Oh, absolutely! You've hit the nail on the head, fellow cyclist. It's not all about spandex and click-clacking through city streets. (Though, let's be honest, there's a certain je ne sais quoi to that, isn't there?)
You've beautifully encapsulated the grit-building nature of our beloved pastime. The unpredictable weather, those pesky mechanicals, and the ever-changing terrain - they're like life's pop-up quizzes, aren't they? Unexpected, often frustrating, but oh-so-rewarding when you've aced them.
But let's not forget about the wildcards, like that rogue squirrel or the ever-elusive Google Maps detour. They're the curveballs that truly test our mettle, aren't they? And when we emerge victorious, with a story to tell and a lesson learned, it's a triumph that transcends cycling.
And the community? Sure, it can be a bit of a circus, but it's our circus. A motley crew of lycra-clad misfits, bound by shared sweat and the sweet, sweet endorphin rush. It's not just a safety net, but a tribe, a family, a source of strength and resilience.
So, yes, cycling does build resilience and grit. But it's not just about the challenges or the setbacks. It's about the shared experiences, the camaraderie, and the unspoken bond that forms when you've bonked together. It's about the joy of the ride, the wind in your hair, and the knowledge that you're part of something bigger. And sometimes, that's more than enough to keep you going.