Do you actually ride all of those bikes?
You've probably heard that question from the non-cyclists in your life. I try to explain that even though each of my rides might look similar, they actually offer different kinds of rides, based on their geometry, frame material and components (especially wheels and tires).
So, my answer is, yes--though, if I'm feeling a bit snarky, I might add, "but not at the same time. I'm working on that."
Well, last weekend I did manage to ride three of my bikes in three days. On Friday afternoon, I took Tosca, my Mercian fixed gear, for a spin along the waterfronts of Queens and Brooklyn.
Saturday was the sort of gloriously sunny and brisk early fall-day that riding dreams are made of. What better day to ride to Connecticut--on Dee-Lilah, my delightful Mercian Vincitore Special.
And yesterday I took another ride along the waterfronts, mainly because I didn't want to turn it into an all-day (or even all-morning or all-afternoon) ride, as I'd promised to spend some time with someone who can't ride--and some quality time to Marlee. I didn't take any photos of the bike I rode--Negrosa, my vintage Mercian Olympic, but she's pretty much how you remember her if you've seen her in some earlier posts.
So, while I didn't ride all of my bikes, I think I varied my rides enough to feel justified in having, well, more than one bike!
Your Mercian must have toe overlap despite being at least a size 55cm. As both Lovely Bicycle and Dave Moulton have written about toe overlap as non-issues, I find riding one with no or at least minimal overlap easier to climb steep roads with.
ReplyDeleteJustine's passion for cycling is inspiring! It's great to see her enjoying different bikes for various riding experiences. Perhaps she could explore group Rides for Seniors, where she can connect with other enthusiasts and enjoy safe, social cycling adventures.
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