The Trial Run

So, I got to take Phoebe out for about a five mile ride today. Not too long, but the cold was starting to get to me, as I didn't really prepare all that well for it. It was nice to be able to ride her for a bit to check out all the qualities of this newly acquired toy. Don't tell her I said this, but I still think Stuart is the bestest bike EVER! That said, Phoebe is pretty cool too. She's definitely pretty, as is easy to see, and even the guys working on the highway had to stop and stare as we rode by. I just smiled and waved. They probably were thinking that I am a lunatic for riding a bicycle in 30 degree weather, but that's okay. I didn't think it was too bad, just a bit of a breeze that was making my ears cold. I think she's a bit lighter than Stuart, and the thinner tires seem to both be a blessing and a curse. With Stuart, I don't worry about riding over anything, traversing rocks, dirt, whatever; with Phoebe, I find myself a little hesitant as she's a bit squirrelly up front. I'm guessing it's all of the weight being on the rear of the bicycle, but I suppose it's a similar geometry on Stuart, so I'm not certain. She is fun to ride, though I feel my posterior going numb after a couple of miles. I suppose this again is true of most bicycles though. She seems to handle hills a bit better than Stuart, meaning that it's easier to pedal in a higher gear, but I think this may also be due to the weight difference. I don't think there could be more than 5 pounds difference between them, but it's interesting the differences it makes.

My new panniers arrived today for the Novara, so I'll have to put those on. I suppose it wasn't the best color choice (yellow/brown on a blue bike?), but it was an amazing deal at nearly 65% off the normal price.

I guess I'm going to be doing a LOT of bicycle riding now with three bikes. If I don't, I have a feeling I may be hearing about it from someone (who shall remain nameless).