Today I read an article pertaining to one commuter's experience that riding his new expensive carbon fiber 30% lighter bike to work was no faster then riding his old bike. It made me realize that everyone has different expectations about buying bikes. This one was a little misleading and I feel bad that he ended up disappointed with his new bike purchase.
If the person commuting is restricting their speed because their bike has mechanical problems, is sized wrong, has design and construction quality flaws or is not intended to be used as a commuter bike, then fixing even one of these problems will increase the speed or ease with which you complete your commute.....especially at the distances that this person was commuting. I guess i have to question how bad his original ride was, or ask how hard this person was trying to ride. Was he pushing the limits of either bicycle? It may have taken the same amount or more time because he was riding a bike that required less effort and therefore he rode with less effort.....thus resulting in not feeling as tired when you get to your location. What other important possibilities are there where a higher quality commuter bike results in a higher quality of life? This made me want to start writing again. Put out there a more complete viewpoint on cycling, more variables and options to talk realistically about cycling and bicycles.
For all my transportation needs for work I ride my bike. My new commutes take me all over the DC area. Mostly riding within a 10 mile radius, my commutes are not as long as the article's author. I ride through dirt paths, grass fields, paved paths, wood bridges, side streets, main streets and 6 lane "oh my goodness" streets.
Recently it came to my attention that my bike needed some serious attention. I break 9speed chains easy and this one was pushing a year. The rear tire had squishy spots where the tire's layers were separating from the fiber cord core. I spent Saturday morning changing the tires and the chain, cleaned all the surfaces and inspected the now aging frame and fork. They are way beyond their 10yr intended lifespan. All good though. No cracks. No flaking paint.
Check out future articles for pictures of the maintenance procedures,
my innovative commuter rig, and our adventures.
Ride Hard
Words by Raymond J. Heinsman
Photos found on the google
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