Bike Prep

My convalescence from surgery and the continued cold weather provided an ideal interlude to have my bike inspected and tuned-up. I took it to my long time favorite shop, Intown Bikes (http://www.intownbicycles.com), designated by Bicycling magazine as one of the top 50 bike shops in the United States.  Mike, the owner, and Rita, the chief mechanic, recommended a long list of repairs including replacing the rear wheel, re-tapeing the handlebars with an extra layer of gel, installing new rear cassette and chain, brake and gear cables, replacing a cracked front derailleur clamp and last, but unexpected, a full replacement of the front crank. So, along with the spare parts (spokes, tubes, tires and a chain) recommended by Chandler, the C2C mechanic, the bill came close to the cost of a new bike.

The time remaining before the tour begins did not leave enough time in my opinion to break-in and get used to a new bicycle. So, after asking to be assured that the frame remained sound I opted to have all the repairs carried out. The seat, also known as a saddle, was a bit worn but, again, I chose not to replace this item and undergo an adjustment period. Note: I may be the only rider who has not had a good experience with the all leather Brooks saddle, favored by many long distance cyclists.

Many thanks to Mike and Rita. Mike commented that he "would prepare the bike as if he were getting ready to ride across the United States." That kind of assurance is what I wanted to hear with now a little more than one month from departure.

Yahoo! Got out this afternoon (Sunday, Jan 23) for the first time since New Years Day and rode 22 miles on the Silver Comet Trail. NO discomfort from the surgery, just the usual getting used to riding again. The bike felt like a smooth rocket after the tune-up.