I've been in the market for a new bike for a few months now. I even had high hopes when I went home in early May of being able to fly my bike back to DC with me. Alas, in every configuration possible, my bike is still longer than 62 linear inches. Cragislist WDC didn't provide any more promising leads.
Fortunately, I was graced by a bit of good luck which was partly a result of genetics. I always make it a habit of doing rounds at the dumpsters on my way home from work. You never know what people are going to throw away. A few weeks back, there was a bike leaning against one of the dumpsters. Granted, it was in tough shape, missing a seat and a few bolts here and there, but it was a bike.
After a few bucks and a bit of creative repair, I now have a bike in full working order. One of the bike shops I took it to even had a bit of pity and gave me some parts for free. I rode the now functional bike in to town last night, and I made it far faster than any public transportation can get me around. Considering the state of traffic in the area, I'm certain I can make it to work faster than if I were to drive. All that, and my carbon emissions are even lower. I'll hit zero one of these days.
So, tomorrow morning I'm going to strap on my helmet and hit the pavement. I'll time it and let you know how I do.
Flown by Mark Mislivec at 05:25 PM on June 06, 2007
