Biker Chick!

Josh decided to spoil me on Memorial Day after we got back from hiking at Taylors Falls, MN by taking me to my favorite store...REI! I've wanted a nice bike ever since college but haven't been able to fork up the money and just do it. I test rode a couple bikes and decided on the Novara Metro bike. It's a hybrid urban bike, so it is both comfortable and fairly fast. That same week there was a free class at REI just for women covering basic bike maintenance. Of course, I ended up spending more money because I was told of all these things I needed if I get a flat tire or need to clean my chain! Then on top of that, I needed a little seat bag to put those things in so I would have the extra tube, patch kit, and tire levers with me when I get a flat. I'm sure it's bound to happen someday. I've been commuting by bike to work quite a bit and usually see shards of glass everywhere, so it's only a matter of time. My commute is only 4 miles. There are a couple roads with bike lanes and a bike trail that I take under the highway. Don't worry, I do wear a helmet. The picture was taken right after we got home from REI, and I just had to try it out in the alleyway before searching the basement for my helmet. I've biked to work at least twice a week since getting the bike, and I'm going to try to bike every day I don't work at REI in the evening. My next bike purchase will be a back rack and either an awesome basket or panniers. I also need to get a bike computer, but I've been tallying my miles and am at 63 miles so far!