That’s what came and fought in my mind. Early the next morning, I took my old 'Trek' and started slowly, heading outside.
Yes, I had decided to take a long ride. An adventure tour. Unsupported. Just me, alone!
It’s not only nice to hear, but it was also truly a challenging trip! Time was on my side, yes it was. March 15th, the day I was born. I had reached sixty years old!
But what had I done? What proud achievement did I have until now?
Even though I had done many things, in this personal historic moment, I needed a mark to remember. There was no reason not to do it.
Because I still had strong hands and legs, good health and mind, and a proportional body shape.That spirit kept me pedaling far away from home. I had to push myself beyond the boundaries.The road was relatively flat, sometimes hilly, and rolling. I saw so many things along the way.
At the pit stops, there were vendors selling everything: meals, food, drinks, or just a place to relax with coffee. Whenever the speedometer on my handlebar showed a certain number of kilometers, I pulled aside to take a break. I felt very tired when I had to pass through 'Hutan Pinus' with its steep and winding road.
It drained all my power and energy. I felt exhausted.
Should I go back and enjoy precious time with a few good friends? The feeling of tiredness really made me want to return home. Every time my resolve wavered, I pictured myself and spurred myself onward. I had promised myself: no matter what challenges lay ahead, I would face them head-on. After climbing such a steep hill at Hutan Pinus, I got my reward.
Yes, there’s always a gift when you succeed. It was the beautiful scenery.
I lay down on the grass under a big tree. I felt tired and needed to recover, and it had been worth it.
So, once I hit the flat road again, I took a break every 20–30 km. Then, after more than 5 breaks, I finally reached Bandung, my homeland.
My family looked surprised. They didn’t even believe I had arrived there... by bike!
Even I couldn't believe myself. How could such a tiny vehicle carry me hundreds of kilometers from home? They knew this was a precious moment, so we had a simple celebration together.
We hugged and laughed. Now, I am going to be 65.
The next morning, I returned to Bekasi via Purwakarta.
If I had a chance to do it again, I would.
But I would prefer going to other destinations rather than the same place I’ve seen before.
Bali, Lombok, Labuan Bajo... they’re all on my mind. Every touring experience has taught me one thing:
No big problem or great obstacle can beat you or define you, unless you make your mind as big as the obstacle.
If you think you can, then you will. I believe it. Now, at 65, I prefer to be one of the sprightly seniors rather than lying bedridden in a hospital bed. Age is just a number. And cycling is just a choice!





















