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1969 Raleigh Sports
This three-speed workhorse was my first restoration project. There is still plenty of work planned for it. More on this bicycle here...
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2002 Trek 7500FX
I can't say enough about this bike... it fits me like a glove! This is my primary commuting transportation. Stock, except for rear Blackburn Expedition rack, SKS P45 fenders and Time Atac pedals (not shown).
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2002 Bianchi Volpe
I acquired this leftover in 2003 for a great discount. Stock, except for rear Blackburn Expedition rack, SKS P45 fenders (presently removed), and Serratus, AquaNot46 panniers.
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2004 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Elite Disc
(see related story*)
It was time to hit the trails again and this was my final choice. Pictured is the male model (see below) Flat tire is the resultof improperly installed rim tape causing puncture five minutes into first ride. Judging by the condition of the tape, it was installed long before it ever arrived at the bike shop.
*My Stumpjumper purchase: I have a somewhat embarrassing story regarding this bike. After purchasing this bike, I had some questions regarding the rims being different from the manufacturer's specs. I was also curious about the color scheme difference from all the models I had seen and read about prior to my purchase. The LBS had me try an earlier model large so I could compare it to the medium. The large was definitely too big, so I did not question that the medium felt way smaller (too much so). It turns out that there was a good reason that the medium's geometry didn't feel right. The LBS had sold me a women's model medium, which has a completely different color scheme, geometry and some component differences from the men's medium.
Looking back, I find it telling that the LBS could not find owner's manuals for this newly assembled bike. I have to wonder if the manuals mentioned that it was a women's model. They did apologize and suggested that the salesperson "must not have known." They also offered a loaner to use while I wait for the men's model to arrive (hopefully in three to four days). I was most bothered by the three trips made back and forth from Sandwich to Falmouth in pursuit of this bicycle, and now the fourth trip upcoming to pick up the replacement when it arrives.
Being familiar with the inventory should be a prerequisite for selling bicycles. In my own defense, I had researched my purchase. I had never seen the feminine version of this model, as I had never looked for one. I assumed the color scheme was simply unique. Next time (if there is one) I will question when the floor model looks nothing like the catalog, web and magazine pictures. Another bicycle shopping lesson learned... unfortunately, the hard way.
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"The Muscle Buster"
In winter, fitted with the Specialized Ground Control tires, the Raleigh M50 "busts" muscle shells without mercy...
This serves as my "especially nasty weather" commuter. This is my "beater."
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"My Winter Garb"
Just returned from a windy, mid-January, 12 mile jaunt.
note: Headphones* provide music and double as ear muffs!
* To those who have rudely and irrationally condemned me for wearing headphones while cycling, I would refer them to expert opinion on the subject:
A Bicyclist's sense of hearing: how important?
© 1997, John S. Allen
I should not be so defensive on this subject, but I feel the need to express that with headphones on, I can hear far better than many drivers with their windows rolled up listening to music on their stereos. Equipped with the headphones, I can still hear the birds chirping as I ride... or is that the whines of those who would suggest I should be pulled over by police and "smacked around" for wearing headphones?
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This is winter in New England at its best... one of my S.U.V.s out in the elements!
Additional Tools & Gear I use for Commuting, Touring and Maintenance
Note: Images link to larger images. Descriptions link to
outlets where I purchased the item, or the manufacturer.
Blackburn Expedition Rack
Serratus AquaNot46 Panniers
SKS P45 Fender Set
Planet Bike: Freddy Fenders
JET Lites: Starfire Single Beam
Blackburn Rear Light
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My Workbench
Must Haves: Bicycle Specific Tool List
suggestions for a professionally equipped home shop
Now that you have seen my bikes, where is my favorite place to ride them?
The Cape Cod Canal