Yesterday I took my bicycle in for some much needed maintenance. One of my front break pads was missing and the back pads were wearing out... The back tire was worn down enough for a replacement. I have had the bike for two years now. Thousands of miles without one flat! The front tire is still in great condition and the back one is good enough to keep as a spare.
While I was in the shop, here in Burlingame, I decided to look at some of the bikes and dream about my next upgrade. While looking one of the employees at Summit Bicycles approached me with an abundance of helpful information and we found the perfect bike. Something a little lighter than what I have now, but solid enough for long tours with heavy loads. Something that I plan on doing here in the near future. My goal is next year for another state to state or maybe even cross country. We'll see how things go.
Not only did I find a couple bikes that I want to add to my collection, I have no intention of getting rid of my current bicycle it has great sentimental value, I learned about clip in pedals and why they are so useful. The up stroke! I had never thought of it before.. Long rides and hills will be a lot more manageable using my legs to their full potential. Something basic and un-thought of, I'm sure, to the experienced rider. But something that had never crossed my mind (or my budget). Even cage peddles are a step up from what I am using now. The stock black plastic peddles.
Another necessary upgrade has to do with my straight handle bars. I am contemplating how to handle that. Either a new set of handle bars or extensions. It is important to change the position of my hands on long rides. One for comfort and two for health, especially with extra weight carried in a back pack. Before upgrading what I have now though, I want to save up for the new frame.
Now one thing to remember is that I can build off of the bike that I have now. Add handle bar extensions, buy a new seat, new peddles and so on. These items will make for a more comfortable ride.
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