Nanci (my Trek 2100 sister!) -

Interesting that you should bring up flats . . . had not had a flat in about a month and low and behold yesterday, I returned from my ride, and no sooner had I put my bike away when I hear this big pssssssss . . . . at first I thought it was the water heater blowing, but no, my rear wheel had done what it's so famous for doing, flatting!!! I checked out the tube and I had a tiny hole right near the valve. This is my theory . . . I think when I add a bit of air to my tires, I'm not careful enough with the stem (keeping it straight); hence, the small holes. Every time I've had a flat it's been around the stem, so I think I really need to pay more attention - I'm just so excited to go out riding I want to take care of my tires quick and get out the door - no more of that for me!!!! I've checked my tires inside and out and there are no other punctures or tears, so I really think it has a lot to do with my inflating the tires and my obviously shabby technique - although, I've gotten real good at changing tubes!! And speaking of which, I think getting a bit heavier tube will be helpful, as others have suggested - they've got some great deals right now at Performance on tubes, plus you can try biketiresdirect.com. I've tried patching tubes, sometimes it works, other times I've gotten frustrated and just tossed the tube and put a new one on.

With regards to the tires . . . did you stay with the Bontragers? My LBS said I should easily get a lot of miles on the tires - at least 2000-2500 as they're very durable. Girl, you've got some serious miles on your Trek. I'm nearing 800, but went 8 days without cycling due to Hurricane Wilma - talk about withdrawal. I was miserable - aside from not having electricity for 14 days, I missed riding.

Nanci, not sure if you use them, but surgical gloves are great for changing tubes - your hands don't get all dirty/greasy - nothing like grease under my fingernails - blech!!! I usually keep at least one glove in my pack and just replace it when needed.

I agree with you about riding . . . it's amazing how much I enjoy it, even if I do the same ride two consecutive days - it's this incredilbe feeling of empowerment (for me), and, it's also very freeing. It's funny, I can't imagine my life without it now. Oh, and I can't imagine my life without Ebay!!! I've gotten some great deals - geez, I thought I got some good deals, but that rack is a super deal.

Oh, I wanted to ask you Nanci . . . did you change out your pedals? I'm thinking about changing them out because I'd like a bigger platform for my foot and am wondering if you had any suggestions. I've looked at the Shimano Ultegra's as well as the Looks, but haven't made a final choice yet. And, I'm going to get myself a new pair of shoes too!!! Oh, this cycling is just sooooo addictive. After I placed an order with Performance today, I received a catalog in the mail from them and saw some really neat items I'd like to get - what I need is to win Lotto, right?!?!?!

Try getting some heavier tubes and see if that helps, and be careful with the stem when inflating your tube. As far as your tires, from what I was told by the LBS, and from everything I've read, our tires should last quite some time . . . just try to dodge those bottlenecks, girl!!!

Take care.

Kathryn