Our great Guest Steve Levin shares some of his passion with us. We hope it inspires you to keep riding on lot's of adventures.
What's your favorite place to ride?
I ride the trails at Lake Hodges. Since I’m still relatively new, I ride from the trailhead on Sunset (across from Westfield North County). I go east about 4 ½ miles (almost all flat) and stop just before Raptor Ridge. I turn around then go under the freeway about 3.5 miles west (a little more challenging) and turn around. It’s about 16 miles and takes me about 90 minutes.
What bike do you ride?
I have a Giant Anthem SX with Mavic tubeless wheelset
Where do you work?
I recently sold my company, Sterling Rose Transportation and I’m currently working on starting my consulting company, Sterling Rose Consulting.
Why do you ride?
It’s a great way to get into shape and have fun. It doesn’t feel like drudgery as it does on a treadmill or elliptical. I find I can get my heart rate up higher and for longer on the bike.
What started your weight loss journey?
I’ve spent my whole life challenged by my weight. A couple of years ago, I’d gotten to a point (once again) that I felt I had to do something and needed help to do it. I attended a weight loss boot camp in Denver for a week to get me started.
What inspires you to ride?
Having a friend to ride with is a great inspiration. Also, I track my progress using the Strava app and it’s been great fun to see my progression. I just purchased a road bike (Giant Defy Advanced 1) as well and I’m looking forward to adding that to my routing for a little variety.
What's the best piece of advice that you have for any new rider?
Just get out and give it a try. Don’t be frustrated at your initial performance. You will be amazed at how quickly you will progress and be able to extend your ride and take on new challenges. My rides started at 7 miles, then 9, 12 and now 16. At this point, my longest is 20 miles. Use an app or bike computer to keep track. Soon you will be out there trying to beat your times and get segment awards (Strava). If anyone is looking for a beginning riding partner, just contact me. I’m happy to get out there and get new riders hooked on the sport.
What's on your bucket list?
My oldest son left for college this year and I have one more son that’s a sophomore in high school. We travel every year as a family, but I look forward to taking some trips with just my wife for a change. We will be celebrating our 30th anniversary this year but are still talking about a family vacation.
What encouraging words do you have for the world?
Just get out and give it a try. You would probably be surprised to know that you have friends that are riding right now. I ride every Thursday with my friend Bob. He has been so patient with me as I’ve gotten into better shape and could take on more challenging terrain. It’s a little scary going out into new areas alone. One of my favorite sayings is “there’s only one first time for anything”. Just take that first ride and you will see, it’s not so scary.
Thanks Steve for your business, encouraging words and inspiration.
