For the past three weeks, I’ve been meaning to get my bicycle down from the hooks in the garage and inspect it to see what condition it is in. I finally got it down tonight, aired up the tires, washed it off, degreased/lubed the chain, checked the brakes, and took it for a spin to make sure the derailleurs were still in good working order. Everything seemed fine, except for a possible slow leak in the rear tire. I’m going to let it sit for a few days and see if it goes flat, but after that, I think I’m good to go.
I haven’t ridden my bike at all for close to three years, in spite of being given an infant seat for it over a year ago. I never got around to getting it out last summer, so I’m glad I finally did this year.
I gave my front and rear lights to a friend last year, so I’m going to have to pick up replacements. Most of my bike rides will be in the evening, so I’d rather play it safe. I need to look at my helmet, as it probably needs to be replaced, along with my riding gloves. I have a feeling that this may get expensive.
The only thing I dislike about living here is the fact that there is no way to ride a bicycle outside of my neighborhood without putting myself at considerable risk. The underpass on Springfield involves riding on a road with no shoulder, as does the overpass on Kirby. I’d love to ride my bike to work, but I don’t feel confident that other drivers will be safe on those stretches. I could always buy a bike rack and take my bike closer, starting my trek from Daniel’s daycare, but I don’t really see a point to that.
For now, I’ll have to be content with riding around my neighborhood, praying that people don’t blow through stop signs. 🙂
