Getting ready for the long-haul.

Well, I just got back from my first day testing my new bike (and myself) for
its touring capabilities.  Just took a 12 mile loop around Seattle, trying
to tackle some hills and seeing how the gearing would work.  Today I rode
with a 73.5" fixed gearing and 50-60lbs of gear, though once I actually set
out on my "Manifest Destiny American Tour" (a planned 5k mile trip) I am
sure I will be riding primarily with a single speed cog.  I definitely took
the wind advisory in to account, but - as this was my first bike with
panniers - perhaps I did not fully figure in how much of a wall I would make
to cross winds.  I made it home in one piece, atleast, and had a blast
stopping at Gasworks Park to get out of the rain and make some trail soup
for myself and some of the day laborers who make their nights in the
sheltered buildings of the park.  Great fun.  I can't wait 'til April rolls
around and I roll out.

One peddle at a time.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/2oo/5439824813/


-- 
~Wendell~