Monday, February 20, 2012

Bike Updates (or, my laziness has set in, so I'm combining posts into a quick update)

I don't know what has happened to my blogging schedule. Somehow, I've found myself in near melt-down mode over the last several weeks, and have been avoiding any "unnecessary" activities, which apparently includes writing here. Oddly, I have little to say these days, so I thought perhaps a simple update on the bicycle happenings would be an appropriate catch up for today.

First, like many areas across the States, it's been fairly mild weather-wise. It does make it a lot easier to get out and ride because it generally means simply adding an extra layer (or two) depending on the temperature. We have had a few dumpings, but fortunately, they have (mostly) melted quickly. I am quite certain we are in for a good snow bath sometime in the next 1-2 months, but that remains to be seen. Temperatures, however, have been on the warm side, staying fairly consistently in the 25-40 degree Fahrenheit temperature range.
The Bella Ciao is in the process of being sold to a lovely woman in Chicago who is excited about getting the bike. If all goes well, she should be riding it around very soon. I am happy that it's going to someone who will enjoy it, and that it will get regular use... and if it doesn't go to her, I remain positive that the right individual will come along.
Although it went largely unreported here, I actually purchased a Soma Buena Vista mixte frame some time ago and have been attempting to get that built up; however, it's yet another project that has gone by the way side with too many non-bike projects taking place these days. So, it will be sold to avoid the gathering of "extra" stuff around the house. It was just one of those projects that started strong and then, unfortunately, fizzled out. I am trying my best to avoid these "deals" that seem to come my way. It seems I am quite incapable of saying no to a project when the price is right. I'm working on it, but I believe it is some sort of personality flaw that needs some repair.  Secretly (or not so - as I've just typed it out here), I have hopes of another project bike, but I think I need to wait and make sure it's the right one, and that there is the time/funds to devote to it.
So, the bicycle herd is dwindling once again, and not too many changes have taken place with the remaining rides. One fun change was the handlebar tape on the Hillborne. I felt that it was looking to masculine, and needed a bit of a feminine splash of some sort, so a couple of months ago I decided to switch out to a raspberry colored bar tape. I have to admit, it's a bit of a different look, but it's growing on me. What do you think?

Other than these few changes, life continues on. Hopefully, your winter rides are going smoothly. Before we know it, spring and warmer weather will be here. Happy riding!

15 comments:

  1. Man, I wish I could take that Soma off your hands! I'm glad to see you back writing again, no matter how infrequently.

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    1. Thanks, Cecily. It's amazing how quickly time flies by!

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  2. What size is the Soma and how much?

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    1. The Soma is a 42cm (so pretty small). Probably suitable for someone no taller than 5'3.

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  3. I never would have thought to put pink and orange together, but it makes for a cheerful combination.

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    1. I have to admit, it's a little odd, but it makes me feel like the bike is slightly more feminine - for good or for bad. :O)

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  4. Did you chose the "Mixte' frame over your "Step-through" for reasons of weight ? Is a "Mixte" frame more rigid and lighter ?

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    1. Honestly, it was just a frame I've admired for awhile and happened to find one incredibly discounted so I thought it would be fun to try to build it up. Under normal circumstances, it would likely have been a great project, but because of time constraints, and too many other things happening, I just can't find the time to get it together.

      I don't think it's really any lighter than a loop frame of equal size - at least not anything that's noticeable. It's actually an interesting frame though, and the subtle details that are unseen in photos are interesting. Since it was never completely built up, I can't speak to the rigidity of the frame, but I believe it would be a faster feeling bike as opposed to most loop frame bicycles on the market.

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  5. Just found your blog! (I'm the "lovely woman in Chicago" - thank you! :) Yes, very excited! Nice to see your comparison to the Electra, too... will have to see how I feel about the constant drag issue of the light-generator. But even looking at La Bella's picture here, my heart skips a bit. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out for me.

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    1. Honestly, depending on the day, I don't notice a drag. I've wondered more than once if it's in my head. There likely is some but I think if it becomes bothersome a different hub might help. Hoping to get this finished as far as packing tonight to get it off to you. It would be great to get your feedback/report on your thoughts when you've had a chance to ride.

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    2. Hey K, I hope to see you ride that beauty to a Women Who Bike brunch or Critical Lass soon.

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    3. Hi Ash! Having been customized by Lovely Bicycle's Velouria, I'm sure it will be magnetically drawn to all sorts of Bike-Centric activities around town.

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  6. I like the pink tape :) I'm feeling very tempted to brighten up my road bike in the same way.

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  7. Hi G.E. -

    Miss you... Hope all is going well. You're probably super busy with school, huh?

    I wanted to let you know that my first issue of Momentum arrived and, when I am able to pry it away from my husband, I look forward to reading it. Thanks so much for the subscription!

    Cheers,
    Melanie

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  8. Hi Melanie... I miss you all too! It has been a bit crazy, and I believe it's only going to get worse before it gets better! I'm so glad to see that your first issue of Momentum arrived. I believe I got my copy recently too, but just haven't had a chance to go through it yet. I am very happy I could share a few issues with you, and hopefully, it will be something to enjoy throughout the year. Hope all is well, and thanks for letting me know. :O)

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