Road bike tire and Surly N+1-Epilogue
Since several people suggested that I try wider tires on my Dolce for a more comfortable ride, I went online this weekend, read some reviews and picked out a pair of 25s-Continental Gatorskins.
I almost sprang for the Continental Grand Prix 4000 S because the store had them for a decent price, but ultimately decided the Gatorskins would be a good place for me to start. (Tires eventually wear out-if they don't prove to be the right choice, I can buy something else next time around. Picking the wrong bike is a more inconvenient mistake.)
If anyone is looking for tires, check out Westernbikeworks.com; not only did I stumble upon a sale, but received an additional discount for being a new customer-AND a coupon for 15% off my next purchase (within 30 days). I got the Gatorskins for $42.49 each-with free shipping.
I think this is going to help make the Dolce more fun to ride. As for the Surly: I still would like a Cross-Check but somehow managed to talk myself out of a trip to the LBS yesterday. It wasn't easy. After riding with a friend through the woods on packed trails Friday, I have been inspired to ride off-road more. There are several State parks near me that would be fun to explore...(Does N+1 ever end??)