Heh, I've always wanted to say that I've been fixed :rolleyes:
(FYI: eek, long post! Sorry, ladies!)
Here's the slightly long version of my... er, ordeal. :D
About a month ago I walked into my lbs to order a Chrome bag for my so's birthday and *gasp* there's this beautiful kelly green bike inside the door. I am quite sure that the world stopped for this bike; I knew I was going to buy it. I checked the wooden info hang-tag, "Not for sale."
WHAT?!
I inquired, and found out that it was a special, city-edition of the Specialized Langster (needing to be ordered). This particular edition was the "Seattle", with NW specific details. The details were what sold me.
Besides the stunning emerald color (with matching hubs and rims), its got a coordinated seat, woodgrain fenders, and a mug holder! It also had paint details, signifying that it was NW inspired- rain, umbrellas, a coffee cup, and, on the underside of the bottom bracket, a no sun symbol (which I didn't see until I got it home and was fiddling with the pedals). http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=32829
I've been thinking about building a fixed for awhile. When I saw this bike, however, I knew that my junky side project wouldn't be finished until, at earliest, spring, most likely later. Why wait when I could get this gorgeous, perfect-for-my-commute-and-cruising-fast-around-town hunk of love?
So, I put some cash down and, two bonuses later, bought my lovely Langster (which I have tentatively named "Addie"). She rides like a dream, despite the fact that I'm slightly inept @ riding a fixie. Once I knew I was getting her, I tried practicing on my road (aka commute) bike, but it didn't do the act justice.
I am still surprised by one leg rotating up wildly in a way I hadn't planned, and I am glad that Eugene doesn't have too many daunting hills. I do, though, relish in the fact that I am constantly giving direct power to my bike- there is no passive riding on a fixed gear. I also enjoy that Addie makes me more conscious of my pedal strokes, and that I have to work a little bit harder to top the few hills and speed past cars on straights. I appreciate all the things this bike can't do.
~V
P.S. I've been lurking for a while- this is one of my first posts. I really love all of the advice and love and support that everyone gives! Please keep sparking riding fever in women. So many communities need something this positive and inspiring!
