My New Addiction-Gertrude

I've looked back on my posts about biking. I can say, it's almost been a month in which I have been biking or thinking about biking. I have read a lot over the summer and I have also practiced quite a bit on my bike. Today was the first time I've ridden to work. I actually used my pannier to carry stuff. On the way home, I got caught in a rain shower. Gertrude, my bike, got me home. I was able to use my strob, reflective light on the back and I used my headlight. I think I want to get a larger headlight for my bike. When I start getting a regular paycheck, I will start adding new accesories to my bike. People at my job were surprised that I biked in. It's sad to see our soceity is such that bikes are seen as recreation or a kid's toy and not a form of transportation. As me and Gertie were riding home, I wondered what my state would be like if half of it would ride their bikes to work instead of their gas guzzling SUVs for a day. It was actually cool to be out in the elements and to hear the rain falling. I think the last time I used my car was last Friday- I wonder if it's jealous?

My Summer Reading!!

Well, I have actually been using my bike to get me to places that I've never thought of before. After reading this book which is currently displayed on the side, I really started thinking about the use of my car. Most of the time, I use my car for only 5 minute rides. Which using your car for only 5 minute rides, not really a good idea because of the whole thing contributing to pollution. Also the short trips are just bad for the car because it doesn't have enough time to heat up before you have to turn it off again. If your car is running cold, then it puts off more pollution. My husband who has like an hour commute obviously can't get ride of his car. But this book has really made me rethink the use of my car and the use of my bike. I get really cranking when I can't use my bike. Like this whole weekend because of the heat advisory, my hubby didn't want me to ride my bike. So tomorrow, I'm really looking to ride. I'm learning many different things about my bike which I didn't know before. For example, I learned how to clean my chain and my front and rear derailleur as well as the cassette on the back wheel. I'm also in the process of learning how to true tires. I've been referring to the Bike Repair book by Todd Downs. I'm not used to reading mechanical books, so I really need help. My husband who used to ride a lot and who is just mechanically inclined, has helped me to apply what I've read to action. My hands have gotten really greasy over the summer and I love it!!! I've also looked into some bicycle clubs in my area. Plus I've read another great book this summer...the Art of Urban Cycling! What an awesome awesome book and very comprehensive. I still keep it close so I can refer to the various tips in it.