Deconstructing the Bicycle

My one hour lesson on how to fix a flat at David's World Cycle gave me a new appreciation for my bicycle. I first learned how to take off the back tire and then completely deconstructed the front wheel, pulled out the tube, checked for my hypothetical hole in the tire, replaced it and put it all back together. Of course I watched the instructor do it first and then gave it a try. I never realized that the tire completely comes apart with a tube in the middle and little spoke holes all around the rim. How cool- now I can speak bicycle.

He also taught me a nifty trick that if there's a visible hole in the tire to use an empty gel packet wrapper or dollar bill before putting the tube back in so you can make it safely home without getting another flat before entirely replacing the tire. It's definitely reassuring to know that if I'm out cycling on my own that I can take care of a flat without freaking out or being stranded. I'm keeping my fingers crossed to stay lucky with no flats, but at least now I'm prepared for whatever comes my way.

There's no such thing as free lunch, so my free bike repair lesson turned into a shopping spree. I bought womens gloves and then tested them out on a short ride when I got home. They're very comfortable and cushony, but rather drab and ugly. I really wanted to buy the kids gloves because they were so cute and colorful, but that didn't work out. I also got an extra water bottle holder, so I'll have two for hot days, and another mini air pump. Last week at Orange Cycle I got a cycling jersey on the clearance rack for $34, marked down from $118. I can never turn down a good bargain, especially when it comes to cycling.

All the accessories really start adding up, so it's good to find the deals. It's especially nice when the local shops have decent sales because then I can still save and support local businesses. Although, I must say the Shimano pedals I bought awhile back were a to-die-for deal online. So, you never know where the bargains are, just keep your eyes peeled. The only item I've purchased for cycling and have regretted is my odometer. I really should have bought the wireless version that gives the average miles per hour for the entire ride instead of just the changing speed as you go. Not to mention the fact that I couldn't figure out how to change the clock after day light saving time, so I'm an hour off the rest of the world. It would be nice to know the average speed per ride and try to improve upon that instead of just guessing.

I'm looking forward to a sunny Memorial Day Weekend that will hopefully include a trip to the beach and lots of cycling. The past six days it has rained constantly. Rain, rain go away. Sunday I'll be trying out the Cady Way Trail with my sister's roommate.