I love cycling. It’s not that I hate walking or taking transit, it’s just flying along the road on my own two wheels is so much fun, and lets me keep my own schedule. So when I started planning a trip, it was just natural to assume that I’d bring along a bike. I thought about bringing my trusty companion; along. I’ve taken it along on bus, plane, and train trips before, but after seeing the dents in the front forks after sending it on the bus, I didn’t really want to do that again. With careful consideration, I realised that the bus leg couldn’t be avoided.

So, I needed a bike that was tough, one I wouldn’t have to worry about getting crushed. It would also be an advantage if this bike could pack into the size of checked baggage, since I wasn’t sure if bikes could even go on the bus. With the help of Juergen and the rest of the folks on the HPVOoO mailing list I decided that a Raleigh 20 folder would do the trick. Juergen had one that he was willing to sell. He’d lent the bike to a friend of his who was driving across the country to Seattle. Perhaps it was time for the bike to make another trip?

Here’s the bike shortly after I got it.

Since this photo was taken, I’ve replaced the seat, gotten the front forks spread, the front wheel replaced with a standard 20 inch wheel, replaced the front tire again with a smaller tire, and gotten the front brake housing and pads replaced. I can now actually stop the bicycle in less than 50 feet, which is nice. Stuff I plan on doing includes cleaning the rear brakes and rims, replacing the rear tire, and installing new fenders. The chrome fenders look nice but they make lots of noise.

I’m really enjoying zipping to school, the library, and the market on it. The longest ride I’ve been on with it so far was a short 30k ride around Wolfe Island, which was a very fun ride. I’m looking forward to travelling with my new companion!

Posted in Cycling, My Fleet |

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