Pedalling Along

Hi, and welcome to my blog.  This is where my honest intention is to wax poetic about bicycles, but inevitably discussion veers off into such things as the meaning of life, politics, religion, and family.  But mostly, you’ll see that I write about bicycles and biking - especially country biking.

You see, I don’t ride to go fast.  I ride because it’s fun.  My main bike, a Surly Long Haul Trucker, has a heavy leather saddle because it helps keep my bum from getting sore; and it has big puffy tires because they soak up the potholes, stones, and other discomforts when I go exploring on the local roads and trails.  It also has fenders so I don’t get mud splattered up my back; and it has lights so I can enjoy the cool evening air on an otherwise hot summer day.  Finally, it has a big canvas bag on the back where I carry a few tools, some spare change, a camera, and anything else that I might need for a day in the country.  I also have an old Cannondale “gofer” bike, and a Marin 29er mountain bike.

I rarely wear lycra and have never worn cleated shoes.  In fact, my favorite biking shirt is an old cotton dress shirt with green armpits.  Why?  Because it’s comfortable, keeps me from getting sunburned; and because I’m an old fart who doesn’t care what other bikers think of my appearance.

Your comments are welcome, provided you’re the civilized type, not selling anything that I don’t want, and generally feel that I’m not a threat to your way of life.  I’m particularly opinionated; but that shouldn’t stop you from joining the fray.  On rare occasions, I have been known to change my mind.  Other topics that might get a rise out of me (and a peek into the window of my life): cutting firewood, rowing as in crew, soccer, home repair, firefighting, Winston Churchill, American History, Military History, European History, education, taxation, 1970’s-80’s music, playing the drums, talk radio, and popular culture.

Other than that, you should know that I live in Lewisberry, PA; and work in Harrisburg.  My political leanings are conservative/libetarian, but I’d just as soon throw all of the bums out.  I am very active in an evangelical Christian church, and I will respect your views as long as you respect mine.

Beyond that, be warned that I have a sarcastic wit that easily offends people if I don’t watch myself.  It’s nothing personal.