*HAPPY TO RIDE HERE*
HAPPY TO RIDE HERE: A 170km Adventure at MAAP LaB Amsterdam
A ride to remember. That’s how the HAPPY TO RIDE HERE event, hosted at MAAP LaB in Amsterdam, will be etched into the memories of the 15 riders who participated in this adventure. This special ride wasn’t just about the kilo meters -though 170km is no small feat- but about friendship, perseverance, and the thrill of conquering the notorious Rondje Markermeer. All in winter; battling brutal temperature and relentless headwinds.
Kicking Off with Coffee
We gathered early at MAAP LaB, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. I definitely needed a nice coffee to wake up and be ready for the ride. It was a lovely pre-ride ritual, as everyone geared up and prepared for the challenge ahead.
The Route: 170km of Rondje Markermeer
The day’s ride covered the famous Rondje Markermeer, a stunning yet demanding route around the Markermeer lake. With views that stretch out for miles and a challenge that goes beyond just the distance, this was no casual ride. As we set off, the group was strong, riding in unison as the landscape slowly unfurled.
The route would test our endurance, taking us through stretches of flat terrain and windy paths.
Battling the Headwind on the Dijk
It wouldn’t be a proper ride without some serious headwinds and snackitos, right? The dijk section of the Rondje Markermeer is known for being exposed, and on this day, the wind didn’t hold back. It was like a wall, pressing against our front wheels with every turn of the pedals. Group morale stayed high, though, as we shared the struggle, finding strength in the collective effort. As tough as it was, the good vibe kept us going. It’s moments like these that remind you why cycling is such a powerful sport. When the going gets tough, the team gets tougher.
If the wind wasn’t enough of a challenge, the cold weather definitely added another layer. And despite the challenging weather, spirits stayed high, the laughter never stopped, and the sense of accomplishment grew with each kilometer.
A Ride That Will Be Remembered
The HAPPY TO RIDE HERE event wasn’t just about riding 170km. It was about embracing the discomfort, finding joy in the journey, and proving that when you push yourself to your limits, you’re capable of so much more than you think. And as the group rolled back into MAAP LaB at the end of the ride, the sense of achievement was palpable.
Thanks to MAAP and Bleachwerks design for organising this incredible experience. Here's to more rides like this, where the weather might be brutal but the sense of camaraderie and accomplishment is always worth it. Happy to ride here, indeed.
