Ha! Yes, I know what you mean... I went for a whole new bike recently! I also went all out with the pedals and accessories. And I'm STILL slow... I bet you pass me in the park all the time. Look for me and wave next time! I'll be riding a bike that says BLUE on it, and I'll be wearing a blue top. Oh, and my helmet is partially blue. Hmmmm.... maybe I should try a complementary color? Will that make me faster?

I really need to get on board with doing things "by the book" as you say. I'm not improving as quickly as I'd like to, though I am improving...