A Journey Back to the Core of Cycling

In my late twenties, I used to ride with a group of friends in New Jersey. We would go out every Saturday, riding anywhere from 40 to 70 miles. Honestly, I never really considered myself a cyclist back then—it was more about hanging out with friends, making pit stops for food, and enjoying the time together. I wasn’t focused on pushing limits or tracking performance. We were just out there for the experience.

This routine ended in 2012 when I moved to Florida. Unfortunately, I didn’t find the right crowd, and some of the groups I rode with took the fun out of cycling. As a result, I stopped riding altogether for eight long years.

Fast forward to 2023, when, out of nowhere, I signed up for a 300-mile charity ride without any prior training. To say it was torture would be an understatement, but that event rekindled my interest in cycling. I started riding again, initially on my titanium and steel bikes, which did their job but eventually left me wanting more modern technology. That’s when I decided to get the Tarmac SL7.

The Tarmac was noticeably faster, but I quickly realized I missed the comfort of my metal bikes. Despite the speed, the long rides were taxing without the same comfort. So, one year after getting the Tarmac, I made the leap and bought a Santa Rosa Integrated Frame, and it’s been a game-changer.

Here’s the build I’m currently riding:

• Santa Rosa Integrated Frame
• 2024 Sram Red
• Princeton Carbon Peak 4550 Evolution with 28MM tubeless tires
• Specialized Mirror Saddle
• Enve Stem
• FSA Handlebar

This setup weighs about the same as my Tarmac, but it offers an aggressive and stiff ride while still being comfortable enough for both short, punchy rides and longer century days. The build feels flawless, and the paint job is stunning. Working with the team throughout the process was a satisfying experience.