I bought this Trek in 2003 and rode it a bit but mostly garaged it because I had a new marriage and then 2 young kids. Now that they are old enough to be alone I decided to fall back in love with biking! I have lost 80 pounds, stopped taking most of my blood pressure meds, discovered smart trainers and how not boring it is to be inside now, and commute to work as much as possible and get away on my days off. I am almost at 1800 miles this year between the trainer and on the road.
That's really amazing. I'm losing weight myself and I can't imagine how good it feels to be 80 lbs lighter. Most importantly I'm happy that you've rekindled an old passion. I think those moments to yourself in joy are important. Keep kicking butt!!!
The weight loss is amazing! I am starting to hit the top 10's in strava and hopefully as I lose more I can get more/move up the list! I have a personal goal to complete a 100 mile ride before the end of summer and recently crossed off the 100km on my way to my goal!
As some motivation: if you can ride 100 km you can ride 100 miles. You have the fitness, the only difference is how long it takes and how much water and snacks you need.