I ended up having to part with my bike at the end of last year, and it really made me sad. I spent most of the winter longing for a new ride. I think it shows how much I really miss motorcycling, and before you go on about how “dangerous” it is, I obviously know that, which is why I am lusting after a bike … sans motor.
Anyway, though, a series of failed yard sale attempts, botched craigslist connects, and various other “find cheap bike” methods; I have finally come upon a very nice new ride. New to me anyway. Precisley 24 years new. It’s a 1984 Centurion, and perhaps the best looking bike that I have ever laid eyes on. Classic Japanese lugged steel, by no means light, but oh so smooth. It of course came with some slightly beat up (keep in mind the 24 year old thing) parts, but thanks to my good friend who works for an un-named bicycle company (tip of the old hat to him, for setting me up) I was able to address the safety bits, and now have a really ridable, lovely, NEW bike!
So, last week, with my new trusty steed under my but, I ventured out with the commuting bikers of Seattle. Leaving the house at about 7:15 on a very chilly Thursday morning for my first commute to our Wallingford office. 11 miles one way. It was awesome! The ride home left my back side a little sore, but I can’t wait to be doing it every day. I save $2.48 per day in gas, and nearly 14lbs of CO2 won’t be emitted by my car. (You can look up your savings here.)
Love all. D. š
Leave a Reply