I rode 112 miles with 4300' of climbing yesterday - my first century since I hurt my hip. It felt great. It took nine hours, which is a bit on the long side, but I'm very happy.
I was cleaning my Brompton and it occurred to me that I should clean my Parks chain cleaning tool. I thought simmering in hot, soapy water would clean it really well.
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| I've had better ideas |
Now it looks like it was designed by Dali. So I just ordered a new one. LOL
Amber has been having a lot of truck problems lately and has been thinking about buying a Brompton as her commute is only 8.5 miles and fairly bicycle friendly. REI has good prices on a limited range of Bromptons and if that range includes one you want, it's a good deal. Plus, if you're a member you get 10% back. That makes the price less than $1700 (plus tax).
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| Amber's green M6R |
She surprised me with it yesterday. Edgar was riding my Brompton so we were two Bromptons and a Serotta to the Bistro St Germain and back. Edgar drives a tiny Toyota FRS so carrying two adults and two bicycles is quite impressive.
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| Two bicycles and two adults in this car |
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| Two bicycles not in the car |
After the 50 mile ride, Amber is making new grips a high priority. I recommended the Ergon GP4 grips. After that comes clip-in pedals. As she doesn't need a compact fold, I suggested getting a regular pair of SPDs. She's OK with the saddle at this point, but might upgrade to a Selle Anatomica at some point.
She also needs to practice removing and installing the rear wheel. Even with Schwalbe Marathon tires, flats can still happen. If this bike can extend the life of her truck by a year, it will pay for itself.
