I had a little spill today taking a turn too fast while pedaling (it caught in the pavement). I didn't break my ass, but I broke my nice new-to-me seat, the nicest part on the bike. This is why steel frames are good for commuter bikes.
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I had a little spill today taking a turn too fast while pedaling (it caught in the pavement). I didn't break my ass, but I broke my nice new-to-me seat, the nicest part on the bike. This is why steel frames are good for commuter bikes.
Could have been a lot worse. Trust me. Physical Therapy sucks.
Borrowed one of the school's mountain bikes and spent about an hour on their trails today. I had a blast; a fresh change after always riding on pavement. I definitely don't need yet another hobby, though.
Edit: And I just fixed my seat that was damaged on Tuesday's spill. I at least have the small satisfaction that if my bike is ever stolen, every part is a little messed up in some way.
So, another question: any opinions on the smaller "folding" types of bikes, such as this? I love the style of them (wanted to get one while I was in Japan, but didn't end up doing so), and also would be able to justify spending more on one as I could take it more places and easily pack it if I move. But, I'm not sure how good they really are for more than quick trips around the block or whatnot.
Anybody own one / rode one enough to have opinions?
It's pretty cute, boshi. If you think you'll love it, a folding bike would be fun, just don't buy a bike that you'll end up selling at a yard sale in 10 years after you realize you haven't ridden it in 9 and a half.
http://www.bikeforums.net/forumdisplay.php?f=221 <- These guys know what they're talking about.
i used to post on the fixie/single speed forum, but they're really rude elitist jerks, even more so than TNL
They are pretty sweet, and the advantages to them are obvious (easy to take with you, don't take up much space). They seem to be becoming more of a trend lately, too, so if you want one, now is the time to get it. IMO, the best ones are the old French military folding bikes, but I don't see those very often anymore. If you're actually looking to commute on it, or to get exercise, I'd still recommend a standard frame just because the larger wheel size is more comfortable and efficient. The other downside is simply that the nature of a folding frame isn't as rugged or rigid, obviously, as the folding sections create weak points.
By the way, there were like 3 really nice ones at my local bike shop last time I was there, and I remember them having good prices. I'll check and see if they're still there in the next couple of days.
After destroying a few backpacks and a cheap over the shoulder bag over the past few years, I broke down and ordered the stereotypical messenger wannabe bag. $61 and free shipping for the black one in medium, and they are supposedly very well made and comfortable. I would prefer a lefty version, but no way am I spending over $100 buying from the manufacturer.
Well, so, I'd say my wanting of a bike is about 30% transportation, 70% getting me outside and getting some exercise. One of my concerns was, indeed, being smaller they might not be as comfortable or versatile as your typical bike. But, like I said, mentally I can justify spending more on one of those than I could a regular bike.
Hmm. Maybe I'll see if I can find one to try and see what I think.
I'd say it's 3% transportation, 7% exercise, and 90% you wanting to buy something cute and funky instead of reasonable and useful because you're a woman.
The ONLY reason to have a folding bike is so that you can take it on a train during peak hours.
It would be 100% DUMB for anything else.