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Anyone else ever feel a pang of bike envy when riding with others, or even just scrolling through bike-related subreddits? It's tough seeing someone ripping on a brand new carbon dream machine when you're on your trusty, but definitely aging, steel steed.
I've found that a good way to combat this is focusing on what I can control: my own fitness and skills. I might not have the shiniest new components, but working on my hill climbs or cornering technique makes me feel way better than just wishing I had someone else's bike. It also makes me appreciate my current ride more for what it can do.
Another tip is to remember that a lot of the beauty of cycling is the shared experience,not necessarily the equipment. Offering a helping hand with a mechanical issue, or just sharing a funny story from the ride, can strengthen the community and overshadow any equipment disparities. What are some of your strategies for dealing with bike envy, whether you're the one feeling it or witnessing it in others?