Trike!

I debated putting this post on Fitness Jones, my other blog, but decided ultimately to put it here because a big part of riding my new recumbent trike is about living in a small town where biking is easier really. I live close to work, half mile, and do many things locally.

Here are some poor pictures of my awesome new trike. It's raining outside so the pictures are of the trike in the garage. Because I live in the world of the real (meaning I'm on a budget), I will tell you that selling a motorcycle financed this purchase. Thank you to Dee who has unwavering support of my efforts. We rented it one day at Tryathletics and couldn't give it back. It changed everything about riding a bicycle for me. I have balance issues typical for a person with MS and getting on this trike was like a miracle. I get on and off it with relative ease. I'm writing about it instead of riding right now because it is raining and the big cushioned seat would take forever to dry. I've been riding it all over town. I've been riding it to work. It attracts a lot of attention and if everyone knew how fun they are, Wal-Mart would be selling them. I could be the spokesmodel for Sun Bicycles with the number of conversations I have with people on the street. Kids follow me on their bikes - that is freaky. I have the dorky flag on it so people will hopefully see me if they aren't looking and the lights and reflectors don't catch their eyes. I hop on and off sidewalks for ease and perceived safety. I lock it up.

Note the cages on the pedals for holding my numb feet in place. Then I'm good to go! See my cool pannier basket on the back for carrying my stuff.



Dee has constructed a near dashboard setup for me. There is a headlight that is visible clear across town. The cup holds keys of other quick-grab items. The rear view mirror really works! And the gleaming bell is special too.


Dee gave me her New Belgium Brewing Company (makers of Fat Tire beer - awesome company) bell to use. I hope she doesn't want it back!


Here is the back view - with a blue reflective band on the pannier. There are two red lights that can be turned on and set to flash. Here you can see the dorky flag.

It's funny, when I ride it to work, I park it in my car parking space and lock it with a long lock to a pole nearby. There are no bike racks near my building despite our "go green" initiative. Maybe soon! It's an easy enough ride that I commute in my office attire.