Eleanor hopped on her balance bike at just a year and a half old. In those early days, it was all about a few cautious steps at a time — but by summer, she was confidently rolling off curbs, hunting for tree stumps to roll over, and giving her parents more than a few grey hairs!
As a tall-for-her-age kiddo who’s always ready for her next adventure, it didn’t take long before she was ready to pedal. Even with training wheels, Eleanor was tackling 4 to 5 mile rides like a champ. Some of her favorite spots include Lakeside Park and the section of the Loop behind the high school — she especially loves the rumbly sound the bridge makes under her wheels.
She’s had plenty of two-wheeled time with her parents, Alyssa and Bart, riding along in their cargo bike (aka the family minivan) or tagging along in the Burley Trailer or Tag-along. But this summer marks a big milestone: Eleanor is ready to ride on her very own mountain bike! For the past year, she’s been completely captivated by her parents’ “muddy bikes,” and will walk around the shop and confidently declaring, “That’s the helmet I’m going to wear when I’m a mountain biker!” or “I’m going to wash my bike here after it gets muddy!”
Growing up in a bike shop has been a special experience for Eleanor. The team knows her as “The Big Boss,” and they’ve all become like family. She asks about them if it’s been a while since she’s seen them and has a unique bond with each one.
When you ask her what she loves most about biking, the answer is easy: Pizza Rides, going “super speedy,” and sharing it all with friends.
