Texas Hill Country Bike Tour

Except for boring trips-to-nowhere on exercise bikes at the gym, I had not been biking for years. I would probably not have even dared to go on a ride except for several very special and dedicated folks. Thanks to Carlos, Beth, and our very own Micky Dee for making this trip a reality.

Carlos Richter owns Bent Wheel, and he was our guide for the Texas Hill Country tour. My guardian angel / sister Beth and I rented bikes at a local shop, and quickly and efficiently the seats and handlebars were adjusted. We also received a quick tutorial on shifting gears. I scoffed until the bike shop owner reminded me that the tour would include several hills. I imagined that it would take “doing” to really understand the principles involved and most importantly – when to shift to the low numbers. I borrowed a helmet, gloves, and bike shorts for the excursion. I am not a vain person, but a new definition for humility is born when wearing the tight, padded shorts. I kept thinking of Mickey Dee's hub picture and all of the wonderful trips he has shared with us. I can do that too! We are ready for an adventure!

We met in Comfort, Texas, a small German community off I-10 between San Antonio and Kerrville. Comfort is a charming town with several restaurants, bed and breakfasts, antique stores, etc. It is a wonderful destination for a long relaxing weekend vacation or a great place to spend the day. The folks are very warm and inviting. Before you even leave, you know you’ll be back for some more of their hospitality.

Since several of us were new to biking, the regular route was altered. Instead of the 30-mile trip, we would be biking just over 20 miles. The route would take us through the historic town and into the hilly country-side. In addition to cows, horses, goats, and chickens, we saw some beautiful wildlife including deer and turkey. The work of the farmers and ranchers was evident as we saw bailed and rolled hay and prepared fields.

Carlos and his teenage-aged son Hayden rode at either the front or back of the group all morning. The front duty was more or less pointing out landmarks and making the correct turns. The back duty was to support the last rider(s) and make him/her (them) feel progress was being made. I found myself at both places during the tour!! We did make several stops along the way, and Carlos was quick to inform us that a particular obstacle was coming up – cattle guard, one-lane bridge, etc. He also constantly encouraged us to follow the rules of the road and stay alert for cars. Hayden was truly the most delightful teenager I have ever been around. He was helpful picking up dropped water bottles and making sure our gear was in good shape. What a polite and mature young man!

As promised, there were several steep hills. I chanted to myself one-two-three-four – you-can-do-a-little-more and five-six-seven-eight – the top of the hill will be great. I made it! And the reward was both intrinsic and extrinsic. I congratulated myself on being healthy and in-shape to accomplish the challenges. The extrinsic incentive was knowing there were two wineries to visit towards the end of the trip.

Bending Brand Water is a lovely boutique vineyard and winery that rivals anything I have enjoyed in Napa, California. The landscaping and outdoor seating is breathtaking. We enjoyed the tasting menu with several delicious cheese and chocolate snacks. My favorite wine was Tannat, their signature red. The next and final stop was at Singing Water. Their production is all by hand, and they do not sell their product through a distributor. The tasting room is cozy, and the staff is very friendly. Freedom, a bold Syrah, was my favorite at this stop.

We mounted our bikes for the last time to cruise back into Comfort to celebrate our successes. I do plan to ride again soon, and this time it will be for 30 miles or more! If you are in the Texas Hill Country, I highly recommend Bent Wheel for a day you will always remember. Who knew you could have so much fun on two wheels!

Truckstop Sally