The Importance of Recording Annual Miles

December conditions in Vermont: snow covered bike path or clear after a big melt.

 
I keep track of annual bike mileage, generally, penning basic numbers into a date book, then transcribing them monthly into a self-made spreadsheet. It's not logged with accuracy though because I don't use a GPS specific computer  - Google Maps, and on occasion when I ride a unique route, Strava fills in the gaps, rounded to the nearest whole number. Most of my rides are repetitive and easy to count, so computerized tracking is rare and not the norm.

I have found consistent motivation to ride frequently upon computer shutdown at my home office - Work and home life balance has been important since 2020. Nothing like fresh air to crank out miles! I don't put much stock in the annual number, yet, if early December's total is close to a significant milestone, then I try for the end game. The result is wholly dependent on weather, bike path conditions - remember, I often ride in darkness - bumpy, packed snow is difficult and exhausting on studded tires, yet satisfying because cold is no longer a deterrent - I stay warm in 10-15F. Clear paths mean a faster 10-15 miles in 1.5 hours. With late December's big melt, I was able to surpass 3500 miles, treating myself to a well deserved restaurant lunch!