Now that the summer is finally here (was there even a spring this year?) we plan to enjoy it fully before it fades away. Other than hiking, we’re planning to go fish and also get some cycling in this year. Thing is, both of us haven’t ridden bikes for a long time.
So we went to a few LBSes (Local Bike Store in cyclist’s parlance as we have recently learned) and Walmart to check out how modern bicycles look like these days. There have been so many new advancements recently we can hardly recognize them: Automatic gear shifters, micro-adjustable seats, hybrid bikes. Prices also vary widely, with Walmart bikes that have quick front wheel releases starting at $140, and entry level quality brands at $350.
Good thing Ian’s co-worker told us about the local bike swap. There were a few going on this past weekend, all starting at 9:00am, so we got up and went to the closest one. We got there at around 9:05am and the place was already swamped. Cars were filling up adjacent parking lots and families were rushing towards the large canvas tent where the supposed treasures were lined up under. We quickly got a spot and weaved into the crowd. At first it was a bit confusing since there seemed to be no order to the way the bikes were placed. People were navigating the crowds with their chosen steed and children in tow. Some were obviously experts, but many were like us, just trying to find something that we could see ourselves on. Despite it all, people were courteous and friendly.
Seriously, this Bike Swap is wicked!!! Don’t miss it!!
You can find your local bike swaps just by googling or looking in your local paper.
After trying on a few bikes, we found an older mountain bike with 90’s graphics for Ian (cause it was made in the 90’s) and a comfort bike with fat tires for me. All told, we spent $205 for both. It was a great deal and a great experience!
So we went to a few LBSes (Local Bike Store in cyclist’s parlance as we have recently learned) and Walmart to check out how modern bicycles look like these days. There have been so many new advancements recently we can hardly recognize them: Automatic gear shifters, micro-adjustable seats, hybrid bikes. Prices also vary widely, with Walmart bikes that have quick front wheel releases starting at $140, and entry level quality brands at $350.
Good thing Ian’s co-worker told us about the local bike swap. There were a few going on this past weekend, all starting at 9:00am, so we got up and went to the closest one. We got there at around 9:05am and the place was already swamped. Cars were filling up adjacent parking lots and families were rushing towards the large canvas tent where the supposed treasures were lined up under. We quickly got a spot and weaved into the crowd. At first it was a bit confusing since there seemed to be no order to the way the bikes were placed. People were navigating the crowds with their chosen steed and children in tow. Some were obviously experts, but many were like us, just trying to find something that we could see ourselves on. Despite it all, people were courteous and friendly.
Seriously, this Bike Swap is wicked!!! Don’t miss it!!
You can find your local bike swaps just by googling or looking in your local paper.
After trying on a few bikes, we found an older mountain bike with 90’s graphics for Ian (cause it was made in the 90’s) and a comfort bike with fat tires for me. All told, we spent $205 for both. It was a great deal and a great experience!
2 comments:
Please invest in a helmet.
don't worry, we will!!
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