About eight years ago a friend of mine suggested that we start riding bicycles for exercise. As an orthopedic surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery, I was receptive to the idea of maintaining my health, though a bit wary of the possibility of injury while moving so quickly. Little did I know that this was the start of a major transformation in my life. I was hooked immediately! Cycling is a low impact exercise. Health benefits include cardiac conditioning, improved pulmonary function, muscular development, reduction in body fat, cholesterol and blood pressure. The benefits extend well beyond physiology. One can ride in a fast-paced group or can leisurely ‘cruise’ through a quiet community on the weekend. As for the competitive nature of the sport, you can compete against your friends or attempt to beat your last best time from seasons past.