New Bike

[friedlbug]

I got a new (to me) bike today. A Schwinn Avenue It's almost new. I'm quite happy about it.

[Daox]

Will this allow you to commute back and forth to work? If not, what will you be using it for? Just riding for fun?

[RobertSmalls]

Hmm, a hybrid (road/mountain) bike? I like that. I recommend a few additions: a rear rack with two large saddlebags enables me to carry a week's worth of groceries on the bike, or to commute without a sweaty backpack on. Toebaskets on the pedals are good for +1mph and comfort by enabling you to spin the crankshaft with different muscles on the *upstroke* as well. A water bottle cage with cold gatorade will make you want to ride longer, faster, and more often.

[friedlbug]

Thanks!

Daox - I wish it was for the commute, as it's only four miles, but i have a mountain in the way. For now, it's for fun and errands.

Robert - The "hybrid" is mostly because I prefer a mountain bike but need a road bike. It won't see much off-road use. The waterbottle cage is already on this one, and the rack is probably next.

[NiHaoMike]

Convert the bike to a proper hybrid (EV conversion and keep the pedals) and the mountain won't be a problem. (Think of it as currently a hybrid *ready* bike.)

[SVOboy]

Nice deep Vs on there

[igo]

I am glad to see that wal-mart is selling bikes that are useful for everyday use now. Seems like that bike would be great for running errands.

I am not sure why they went with the low spoke count. I guess wal-mart doesn't know everything about bikes. lol.

[friedlbug]

Igo, I noticed that you're from my neck of the woods. The mountain I mentioned above is Mount Washington, and I'd love to commute to town (the Strip) from Dormont. Bikes aren't permitted in any of the tunnels (that I know of). You don't happen to know a better way (than Becks Run Rd, S. 18th St, Arlington Ave, or McGardell Roadway) do you?

[igo]

Wow, another ecomodder form the 'burg I didn't even notice your location.

It is tough bike riding out that way and I have only ridden out thesre a few times. Have you checked out forum on bikepgh.org ? The guys out there are great for route advice. I regularly commuted from highland park to etna. It was only 3.5 miles but mostly uphill on the way back (at least it make for an easy ride in the morning).

[rainyday]

Bikes are a great way to get around. Unfortunately so many US cities, including Fort Worth, are almost impossible to get around in without a car. But if you have the chance then a nice Schwinn would do the trick.