Trek Steel mixte

[Cataboo]

It's okay, you guilt trip me whenever I wanna sell the flaming surly.

[Jaclyn]

Earlier this year I bought a Soma Buena Vista frame, but I haven't had the time to decide on components to build it up. My DH recently "retired" and immediately took a new job in NC, and I'm carless during my extended visits to our temporary second home.

So I decided to buy the Trek Belleville and ride it here for awhile to learn what I like and don't like. I'll then finish building the Buena Vista and sell the Belleville.

My first impressions after its intro ride last night and a longer 14 mile recreational cycle today ...

Likes:
- Dynamo powered front and back lights are great and are actually bright enough (although I am likely to use additional lights).
- Upright riding position for urban, recreational cycling
- Moustache style handlebars
- Cream & grey color scheme, brown leather accents

Dislikes:
- Did I mention heavy? As in, heavier than one of our tandems ...
- Only three gears ... I will need more for the hills
- Wish they had figured out a clever way to include storage for a lock and essential tools

I haven't had a chance to try the front and rear racks ... or how effective the fenders are in keeping me dry in the rain.