May 19, 2021
For today's interview, I met with a satisfied Maglia Rosa customer. Not very talkative, rather laconic, and wishing to remain anonymous, he nevertheless agreed to be temporarily nicknamed Max Powers for the purposes of this interview. He also answered a few of my questions, adding his own two cents...
Agnès M. Croteau : So, dear Max, thank you for agreeing to speak with me today. Now: basically, would you describe yourself as an athlete?
Max Powers : No.
AMC : Those who know you know that you've maintained a weight loss of at least 60 pounds for years. Do you attribute this to cycling?
MP : Yes.
AMC: ... Okay, but what else? What led you to practice this particular sport?
MP : Saving gas to get to work. It's expensive to repair a BMW.

AMC: 10-4 . Understood. So, not particularly athletic to begin with, you still went to Maglia Rosa to buy your first bike a few years ago. How would you describe your experience there? Did you enjoy it?
MP : I wanted to support a local business near us. Impeccable service.
AMC: You also appreciated it when they offered your girlfriend a free tune-up at the very beginning of the pandemic because she was a healthcare professional... It's worth following them on social media, isn't it? ;)
MP : Yes, it was a nice initiative on their part.
AMC: Tell us about your bike. Do you still love it? Do you think it rides like it did on day one? Would you ever consider getting another one?
MP: The bike is very good for my needs. [Editor's note: Norco VFR 2.] I plan to buy a road bike in a few years for longer journeys.
AMC: With your Norco, what are your best cycling trips to date?
MP: Go to the Ice Cream Master.
AMC: …
MP: Seriously, I like going to and from work.
AMC: Otherwise, where would you like to ride at the end of the pandemic ( psst : it can be anywhere in the world!)?
MP : To cycle around the Magdalen Islands.
AMC: Perfect! And, a final word for those who, like you, don't feel they have a particular predisposition for regular physical activity?
MP: You have to do sports to afford a good poutine at Claudette's afterwards!
You know what? I agree with you, dear Max. Wisdom is summed up in a few words.
With that, have a good trip! ;)
Cycling Chronicle by Agnès CroteauHealthcare professional and cycling journalist
I share with you my local discoveries, my chance encounters & the joys of being a cyclist!