Getting the bike sounds like a good reward for all that training and then, doing the Century. Maybe, by that time, you can get the bike at a discount since the summer will be over and stores will be making way for the '08 models.

Other reasons: you always need a spare bike in case your main ride is in the hospital. And, one bike must be designated the "beater," for riding in bad weather.

The bike matches your dog. It's fate.