I didn’t have to be at work until noon today, so I took the opportunity to go for a ride on the new bike, tentatively named Jack. She’s a Surly Long Haul Trucker, a green steel beauty, a touring bike. I’ve been riding a big pink cruiser for the past year, so this is a huge upgrade in speed. I’ve already realized that there’s a lot more to riding this bike than Rhoda. There are gears to shift, hand grips to rotate, brakes to feather. It is so, so fun. Today was our first ride up to the levees on the Mississippi River bike path. I just wanted to get out there on the smooth pavement and jet. I stopped to take this picture of the river on the Fly. You can see the water and the wintry tree, but you can’t see the billowing industrial smoke on the other side. I hope, though, that this cell phone picture (the digital camera is still hiding) captures the oddly ugly beauty of this place. I got this new bicycle largely so I could train to ride tours up and down the river, like Huck Finn. I am officially In Training. I learned something else important on this ride: there’s a reason people wear those funny bike shorts. So I veered off the path and visited a bike shop, bought some cycling shorts, and wore them out of the store. Here’s hoping I get a chance to wear them tomorrow. But don’t worry about Rhoda–she’s still my everyday bike, and she will continue to get lots of attention. I think the two will get along famously. And for those of you curious about the new bike, here she is. You’ll be seeing a lot, lot more of her.
Oh yeah, we look *good* together.
What I Saw Riding My Bike Around Today 
Hey another example of synchronicity? Today I posted a pic of the Mississippi River (from my end of the country, crusted with ice).
I think the Long Haul Trucker is a great bike. In fact, when I was looking to replace my old aluminum touring bike, Winifred, I test rode the LHT. I loved it! However, I don’t tour anymore and my bicycle needs were changing so I opted for sturdy Gus (and do not regret my choice at all!)
I think you got a great bike for what you plan to do with it!
I love the color coordination between the bike and your sweater.
Congrats on the new bike. Ride it out to Denver, and I’ll show you around!
Lucky! You certainly look good together! Congratulations.
BTW, what’s the reason why people wear cycling shorts?
Congratulations on the new ride!
Yes, you are a natural pair. Many long happy miles of cycling. And Rhoda, you didn’t lose a cyclist. You gained a Jack.
awesome!!!! those surly’s are good looking bikes
loving the pictures with you+ jack, I couldnt agree more, you make a great duo -and matching cardigan?! sooo meant to be 😀
ahh, the cycling shorts. one of the major milestones in the transition to “cyclist.”
also, that’s a pretty sweet new ride.
finally, “the oddly ugly beauty of this place” is fantastic. that could be our state motto. or the title of the next drive by truckers album. or a statement about bike shorts.
Loving the writing as usual and that is a sweet bike. You will enjoy many, many happy miles with him.
judy