The Bike Wishlist: An Orange-Colored Easy-Mount Mini Cargo Bike

Interesting concept: a step-through mini cargo bike. Paint it orange, and I'm in love. Photo credit unavailable.

I've long had a fascination with orange bikes, and I eventually want one. But it's difficult to justify a new purchase when I already own various styles. 

Enter the mini cargo bike idea. I love small-wheel bikes, so why not an orange-painted, easy-mounting, mini-velo-style? Pedal-powered only.

I've been eyeing the Tern Short Haul. On paper, it ticks all the boxes. It can be stored vertically in a garage, tipped onto its back rack. I had the opportunity to inspect one in our local bike shop. In person, the bike, to my eye, is clunky: thick tubing, moto-style tires, and overall, the length is longer than I had anticipated, especially when I sat on the saddle. It felt ungainly.

Tern Short Haul

There is always the Crust Clydesdale Fork or a similar Veloce Pick Up Fork that converts older mountain bikes into bombproof front loaders. I like this option, despite the hefty price, because it opens up various bikes for conversion. Add high-volume rear panniers, like Vincita's Skye Panniers, and, voila, lots of cargo space.

Photo credit: Veloce Pick Up fork.

What makes sense is eventually replacing my step-through commuter bike, or better yet, repainting it orange, because 20" step-throughs are hard to come by. Along with the fork conversion, I'd add Bullmoose-style bars, something else on my wishlist. They're at a similar angle to the Arc bar on my Peugeot commuter, so they'd work.

Whether or not these ideas come to fruition is anyone's guess. And honestly, I don't need a cargo bike - I just want one.

These are the musings that take up brain space. Tell me I'm not the only one.

Downtube Dyan Preliminary Review

Unexpected bonus: the Downtube Dyan's rack can hold a standard-sized panner.

Meet my new folder, a Downtube Dyan! 24" wheels, modern components, and most beneficial, the bicycle is upgradeable.

I've owned and loved my Dahon Boardwalk. It was an easy entry into the folding bike universe. It taught me that small wheels allow versatile travel. I've done many Amtrak adventures, folded the bike into the front seat of a Miata, cruised around Montreal with Adele, stuffed it many times inside our vehicle, opening up the rear rack to handle family bikes. I've embraced its comfortable steel geometry - the main reason I've ridden it for 8 years.

I was eventually ready for new small-wheeled horizons, something that handles a touring load on varied terrain, yet still falls under Amtrak's reservation-free dimensions. I missed snagging a used Dahon Archer, checked specifications on a Dahon Briza, Tern Node and their multigeared 20" counterparts, and even investigated a Bike Friday Diamond Llama. The latter was on a 20% discount, but I still couldn't swallow the price tag. The used market is elusive. There are numerous budget folders - like the Boardwalk - or Bromptons and Bike Fridays fetching premiums. I've known Downtube's brand for a while - they make lower-cost, well-equipped folders because they market and ship directly from Greensboro, NC. After the Rivendell Clem fiasco, I swore I'd never buy a bike untested, and yet here I am!

The handle post is adjustable - I have it slammed, in the shortest position. Slightly curved with some rise, handlebars can be pivoted to adjust position, plus included bar ends, clamped in a removable faceplate stem should I need a bar change. It's the thoughtful features that sold me. Click shifting, included bell, rubberized grip area on the brake lever - very comfortable! The list goes on.

There's a top tube-mounted braze-on for a waterbottle rack, a head tube 3-hole mount for baggage or a rack, quick-release wheels, an included rear rack, and fenders. I've verified through our bike mechanic that I can upgrade the 1.5" rubber to 1.75", with existing ample fender clearance. 

This pannier has a velcro-type attachment, securing the bag to the fender stay.

I was pleasantly surprised to have a sturdy rack that can hold a full-size pannier without heel strike. The rack's large tubing, however, fits only panniers with larger hooks. I presume the rack is set up more for top loads because of one axle stay with beefy tubing. With wider hook bags, a J-hook could be added to the bolt support for a typical connection.

Oh yeah, there's a derailleur hanger too, and a 10x cassette. I have 3 gears lower than the Dahon, and I've been assured we can go even lower.

After one ride, I swapped out the all-metal pedals and wide saddle for the Dahon's fine-tuned, comfortable arrangement.

I think I did pretty well with this 24" wonder. I've ridden the Dyan several times. It's zippy!

2022 Rewind

As I compile my year-end blogpost, a theme often emerges. Like 2020's "gratitude" and 2021's "forward momentum", 2022 will be remembered as a year of welcome changes to the number of bicycles in my possession, keeping a select few - the perfect amount for versatility - ultimately feeling liberated. The hardest part was admitting that a couple bicycles had to go, but once the decision was made - as is often the case - I didn't look back.

January to March was all about making 2022 intentions, investing in new studded tires, and working towards long-term bicycle choices. Spring is all about new beginnings. Feeling content with other parts of my life, it was time to follow through with other changes. As I grow older, accepting that some things are just more important than others, namely that experiences are important and not material accumulation, which includes too many bicycles, is key to my happiness.

April to June felt like I was moving forward at a rapid pace. Our young son - avid bike mechanic - simplified my commuter Peugeot, converting it to a single chainring. Later in the year he surprised me and upgraded it again! I thought about my overall bicycle journey and where it was heading, went on a bike overnight to a hotel, rode trails on Cape Cod, and perhaps the biggest decision, putting the Rivendell Clem-L for sale.

Dahon Boardwalk vs. Bike Friday's All-Packa

July to September continued the transitions. I purchased a Bassi Rachel frame (later built up); sold the Rivendell and my Peugeot UO-14, had an amazing opportunity to test an all-terrain folding bike: Bike Friday's All-Packa, which left a huge impression - something that continues to resonate with me. In late September, I went on a solitary and satisfying vacation, visiting part of the Empire State Trail.

The lovely bridges of the Northern Trail.

October to December unfolded in expected and unexpected ways. Adele and I resumed our Canadian adventures, visiting the lovely Ottawa region despite the chilly forecast. I inadvertently discovered New Hampshire's longest rail trail, the Northern Trail, during peak foliage. I completed 10 years of the Coffeeneuring Challenge, but understanding, contentedly, that it may be my last year of participation. I rounded out 2022 with 3300+ miles, pleased that for the second year working from home, I've kept the momentum going, riding year-round.

Are Practical Bicycles on the Rise?

2020, with all it's failings, has at least jumpstarted a cycling revolution! Inventory for almost every bike has sold out, or is non-existent. Bicycle companies are taking pre-orders (think Velo Orange, Rivendell, and quite possibly your local bike shop). Every business associated with cycling, from bike parts, to clothing, to cycling accessories, (like Po Campo and Terry Bicycles) has seen a phenomenal uptick in sales. Not to mention, e-bike riders that had been growing exponentially pre-pandemic. Just try and get a reasonable priced e-bike today! Folks are flocking to two-wheels.

Where are all the new riders coming from? Just take a look at your local rail trails. A three-fold increase in use! Enough to make most regular riders uncomfortable in unvaccinated heavy breathing crowds. It's obvious that cycling is a wonderful family activity. And at least one family member needs a new bike or service on existing bicycle. I also think more people are commuting, or if not, are squeezing in a fitness ride post home office hours (like myself).

Speaking from experience, pre-pandemic regular riders are also responsible for rising bicycle sales. I bought a mountain bike to get away from crowds, while my husband also purchased his own, in his case, to do future extended backcountry touring. I think many folks are treating themselves to new bicycles, because it's instant gratification, they make us happy at a time when travel is non-existent or unsafe. What better time - if you can get one - to add that unique plus one bike to your collection?

As the title of this blog post suggests, it appears practical bicycles are selling fast. Are there more people riding to the office? I'm not sure, considering how many people currently work from home. I wonder if people are buying what they can get their hands on. Does that explain why folding bikes have become extremely popular? Or are city dwellers escaping city crowds, heading to parks on a practical bicycle that's easily stored in limited spaces? At any rate, I'm fascinated with Dahon's limited stock and their new pandemic-inspired venture, the HIT, a low cost bicycle to meet the rising demand. The Marin Larkspur is also intriguing, and what explains the instant (15 minutes) near sell-out of pre-orders for a more expensive option, Rivendell's Platypus? And that's only the frame...

What has been your experience? Did you buy a new/used bike in the past year?

2020 Rewind

Rolling into 2020, I knew our lives would change - plans were underway to relocate to a new home by May/June, which eventually happened, so it has been a bittersweet year. In fact, for most of 2020 I've been full of gratitude.

I spent January and February bike commuting to work, per usual, not minding the cold but wary and careful of slick surfaces. Looking down the road, I was mentally and physically prepared for a future double-the-length commute, and in fact I applauded a challenge, primarily because of cycling on a flat, car-free path with Lake Champlain views.

"Furloughed" in March, I busied myself with old and new home tasks and regularly checked in with my mother's household. I exchanged regular commuting miles for bicycle challenges to keep the wheels turning - a savior in an upside down year: Burlington Historical signs, Visit Little Free Libraries, visit Burlington Parks, and my annual Coffeeneuring Challenge. 

2020 was also full of wrenching, getting to projects earlier than anticipated. In April I upgraded my Clementine, swapping handle bars and tires, and a bit later dismantled the Trek Antelope, plus swapped the Peugeot commuter's bars for a more swept back version.

Along with new home sewing projects, I took a deep dive into more creative bikey things. I researched and figured out how to repair old panniers, added a custom bar bag to the Dahon, sewed 3 stem bags, and had fun with a pink reflective vest.

Bicycles and the freedom they provide took on special meaning in a socially distant, brave new world. I was thankful to ride the folding bike for transportation and exercise - or any bike at all - due to a thumb injury, but the Dahon's grip shifters allowed me carefree miles. After a wonderful staycation, quite unexpectedly, I purchased my first hardtail mountain bike, a Trek Marlin 7, in September. The bike added a new dimension to fall foliage rides and avoiding crowded MUPs: meandering in nearby wooded trails alone or with my new dirt-loving, live-in buddy. I'm dreaming of future adventures aboard the Trek. It's bizarre (fortuitous?) that I replaced one Trek bicycle with another in the same year! I have the desire to keep on trucking throughout a Vermont winter - even without a regular commute - recently adding studded shoes on my Peugeot St. Laurent.

For so many, 2020 has been tough, We're fortunate to have secure housing and plenty of food. But it has taught us to be humble, to be giving, and be thankful. Though I'm still seeking a safe employment situation, learning and creativity has been my salvation on top of regular cycling. I've completed an intro to Excel class and have started a personal project, tailored to track my bicycle mileage and specific statistics. 

And, somewhere amidst all the life changes, I almost overlooked two milestones: I've been blogging for 10 years and surpassed 3000+ riding miles in 2020. 

Be well friends.

Dedicated Winter Bike 2.0

A dusting of snow has already coated our cycling paths. It has melted, but it's got me thinking about riding throughout the winter again because, at some point, snow will be here to stay - if we're lucky and I hope we are - it also means enough coverage to ski in local parks.

After getting rid of a too small Trek Antelope earlier in 2020 that served for two years as a practice winter bike, (never tried studded tires) I'm ready - I think - for the next step.

I've spent some time pondering exactly what that next bike should be: Do I want a lean maintenance-free machine, converting my step-through Peugeot into a 365 Bike and use currently owned 26" studded tires? I also have an extra wheelset, which means I could swap wheels when needed, though in reality the hassle wouldn't be worth it. Or, I could purchase a cheap single speed fat bike - I've always loved the comfort of cushiony 4" tires. But the coolest thing ever - to be honest I'm dreaming big - would be a 20" fatter tired bike like the Velo Orange Neutrino. which might cone in handy for multimodal commuting, using our local bus service. 

After all my internal ramblings, I've decided to slap the studded tires on the Peugeot St. Laurent and try it out for the snow season. If that's successful, then eventually I might have Old Spokes Home convert the bike into a 365 bike - the model is a perfect candidate.

Dedicating the Peugeot to winter duty still allows a range of perfectly suitable bikes for the rest of the year: skinny-tired fender-less Peugeot UO 14 for fair weather rides, Dahon Boardwalk, and with safe bike parking, the Rivendell Clem could also work. All are unique bicycles that would be efficient commuters (plus give me a variety of riding styles).

I think I answered my own question.

After another snowfall that has lingered for days, I was ready to get out there. Today I mounted the studded tires and rode in more fresh snow that started the moment I left home and continued for the entire 8 miles I was outside! To be honest, it's helpful that I primarily ride on flat trails.

I had so much fun. I can do this!  

Le Peug with studded tires. I removed the front basket for better visibility while using a front mounted light, and sporting an older set of small panniers.

Ideas for 2019 and Beyond?

Inspired by last year's New York City adventure, I had a general idea to visit family in southern Connecticut, then board a ferry with the Dahon to explore Greenport and Montauk regions on the tip of Long Island. As I age, coastal communities - and of course sandy beaches - are appealing to me.

I'm also interested in attending the Philly Bike Expo and riding Philadelphia area trails. (Thank you MG for the ideas!) It would be my first attendance at a bike-related trade show plus an inaugural visit to Philadelphia, easily reached via Amtrak. I'm hoping a son or two might enjoy a long train excursion and weekend with mom.

But then my husband suggested a European hiking adventure, the Tour de Mont Blanc, which is too good to pass up! I picture rebonding with my husband on this famed, picturesque journey, a region we passed through during our 1990s around the world trip, then revisited 5 years later for day hikes near Chamonix. Though the  100+ mile circuit would eat up my meager two weeks vacation, now that our children are self sufficient, and if the logistics work out, that's where I'm headed this summer.

The Long Island foray make take a backseat, but I'm still considering the Philly Bike Expo vacation. And if not, either outing can be revisited another time. Plus, always at the back of my mind is to attend bike school in Colorado - some day! 

On the home front, I have visions of overnights 10-20 miles from home, plus an annual weekend visiting Canadian trails and back roads.

Bike wise, my primary focus this year is on the Dahon. I appreciate it's versatility and it's obvious benefits while traveling by train. Plus, with the right baggage setup the folder can do double-duty as a commuter.

Tasks/ideas/thoughts on the Dahon's makeover:

• Install new tires (that I bought last spring!)
• Sew/reuse material to create bags for the folder. I have ideas and I recently stripped, cleaned, and cut up an old backpack for this project.
• Explore how to easily lower the Dahon's gearing (new front chain ring?), while keeping the 1x set up.

Who knows how 2019 will turn out? At least I have some goals to work towards...

Dahon Boardwalk 6-Speed - An Opportune Purchase

Adding a Dahon Boardwalk to my bicycle quiver.

A folding bicycle has been on my radar for sometime, not because I need one, but because I've long admired their simplicity, lightness, and of course their utility. I'm the last person who could benefit from owning a folder: I fly infrequently, have ample workplace parking, sport bike racks on both our vehicles or otherwise have a specific need for folder, but I've been intrigued by the design. And, I freely admit, I think folding bicycles are cute!

When two multi-speed Dahons were advertised on Craigslist for 75.00 each, I followed up, test rode one of the 6 speeds, impressed with their impeccable condition, despite their 15 year old age, and bought it. My only prerequisites for a folder were multiple gears, 20" wheels, a reputable brand, and inexpensive cost. That the Boardwalk model came with fenders and a rack, a clean drive-train, and came with Dahon canvas bag and documentation, was like cream in my coffee! How could I pass up this opportunity? Interestingly, after talking with the owners, I'd seen their bikes before (scroll to end of post).

Of course, when my husband saw what I'd done, he rolled his eyes!

There are worse habits I countered...and he followed up with wondering if it would fit inside his Miata's trunk...

I test rode the bike on a Queen City Bicycle Club ride, a perfect low key stroll around the city. I'm impressed at the comfortable ride, low enough gearing, and frankly, how well the wheels roll!

What happens next?

Longterm, I'm unsure how this bicycle will fit in my life, though I'm  currently dreaming of taking it on Amtrak for an overnight, or pedal around New York City, or Montreal, etc. Then there's hauling gear, which poses it's own set of challenges, which when I think about it, why not pay the extra baggage fee to bring a normal sized bike?

For now, it's an unforeseen but welcome addition to our varied fleet and takes up little space in our garage. If the novelty wears off, I can easily sell it.

Test Riding Possible Step-Through Touring Bicycles - The Beginning

Specialized Vita.

Last summer as I waited for my son's bike repair at a local shop, I began my search for my ideal bicycle, deciding to look at what was available on the shop floor. My basic requirements for a possible touring machine: fork eyelets, rear rack capability, low climbing gears, and clearance for fenders. Beyond that I was open to any type of shifting and braking system.

I test rode the Specialized Vita, climbing Burlington's hills and zipping along the flats. After 20 minutes of experiencing more road vibration than I've felt in years, I headed back to the shop. I'm not enamored with aluminum bikes in general - I know they present a rougher ride - but neither am I opposed to their looks. I don't mind the fatter tubing and they often come in snazzy metallic colors (Cannondale mountain bikes comes to mind). The Vita's gear system was just okay - I needed lower still. I'll give it kudos for a fast ride though. But another deal breaker was the upright posture and I kept wanting to reach about 4" further forward. It was then that I realized where my hunting difficulties would lie - fit will become a major obstacle. Any step-through bike would have to have a more elongated frame geometry (for lack of correct terminology) for me to consider as a possible touring machine.

And just because there was a Raleigh Eva 1 in my size, I took this one out for a spin. It's inexpensive, steel, and classified as a cruiser. After riding a stiff bicycle, the Eva was comfortable, more like my Ross Mt. Saint Helens. It was cushiony, but sluggish on hills. I could live with the fit, but would need to customize the handle bars. After further investigation, it would require major renovations, new fork to handle front panniers, specialized rear rack (frame doesn't have braze-ons), etc. I was excited at first, considered these renovations, but had to admit that drastically altering a bike might only unearth more problems. I was only beginning my search and accepted that this would be a long haul.

But as I'm slowly learning, variety of affordable (1500.00 or less), step through touring bikes available to US consumers is very hard to come by, especially if you want a true step-through* (I'm spoiled with the Ross's 22" step-over height) and not a Mixte, plus the ability to test ride your dream bike before spending money.

The hunt is on. However, I'm jealous of all the options available to Europeans.
____________________
*Step-through bike frame construction is supposed to be less stable than their Mixte counterparts, especially for loaded touring, however, with lighter racks and gear choices these days, I believe step-through design is adequate. One can always pack ultralight like this guy...

Fat Biking at Catamount

The first fat biking event of Le Grand Fat Tour series, was held at Catamount Outdoor Center, on Global Fat Bike Day, and thankfully, very close to home. There's growing interest in fat tire riding and these events, scattered throughout the state and just over the Canadian border, afford anyone the opportunity to demo bikes on various trail systems, enjoy a meal, local beer, and participate in races.

It's a low key, well organized adventure with one flat fee. Eat as much as you like, ride as many bikes as you like - a perfect thing to do as a family. Arriving at lunchtime, we fortified ourselves first, enjoying a very odd but stellar December day at a picnic table.

Husband, enjoying himself.

We followed a recommended route full of roller coaster singletrack, laughing, barreling through a few puddles. The first bike didn't fit me very well, especially the seat which was cocked backward, but my second run was aboard a Surly Pugsley, set up with slightly curved handlebars and thumb shifters, a rig that I instantly felt at home on.

On the Pugsley. I can understand the appeal of a fat bike!

We all got a little muddy. Tried out fun trails. Had full bellies. A perfect introduction to fat biking!

Appeal of the Velo Orange Camargue

There's something distinctive and familiar about the Camargue bicycle, especially the build used in Velo Orange's advertising in publications. Time and again, I turn a magazine page and the Camargue stops me. I must stare at the sage green color scheme, the gum wall mountain bike tires, the thin steel tubing, curved front forks, rear rack, low gearing, cantilever brakes, and from the vantage in the advertisement, the handle bars resemble flat bars with bar ends. I'm drawn to the Camargue because it appears this particular model has come full circle. Even with 29" wheels, the look is classic 1980s, early mountain bike. Bravo, Velo Orange, for re-introducing this beautiful species!

Is there a particular bicycle that you find yourself repeatedly drawn to?

Why Surely, I'm Looking for a Surly

A Surly LHT, drawing cannibalized to suit my needs.

Pedaling home today, it occurred to me that what I really want is a step-through Surly. According to Surly's fans it's the functional beauty, durability, hauling capabilities, reputation, and bang for the buck that keeps it's riders happy. That's exactly what I'm looking for in a step through bicycle. I also want a touring machine, the bicycle that will take me into my later years. Unfortunately, Surly fails to offer anything remotely close.

Truthfully, neither does Soma or Velo Orange, two other highly regarded companies that have similar reputations. Soma offers a Mixte style, but it's cost and untested touring potential, or for that matter without an opportunity to swing my leg over a frame, are factors that have me looking elsewhere. And frankly, I'm afraid any Mixte will not have the step-over height like I'm currently used to. And as tempting as the Rivendell's Clementine is, again, if I can't take it for a spin I would be silly to purchasing it sight unseen.

With my purse, a custom bicycle is not an option. The Rodriguez Makeshift is pretty. I love the step over height of the Pilen Lyx (more transportation than long distance tourer, but mass produced frame) and style of True North's version. Well beyond what I can afford; however it's fun to look.

Photo credit: Specialized

But hey, what about the aluminum Specialized Source Step Through Bike (phew, what a name!) so new that it's not yet reviewed? I'm not fond of straight forks (and ugh, it's available in only black) but it sports braze on for a low rider rack, supplied with fenders, rear rack, triple crankset and comes in a large size. Intriguing. I am giddy to think manufacturers may offer more step through machines. Or is it only a glorified commuter bike? I suppose only a test ride will tell.

Test rides are the crux of the problem. In our little city, burgeoning with riders, there is limited bicycle supply, and with the variety of bikes offered, as G.E. succinctly describes, that are so many styles offered that new riders are confused, but of course, bike shops must handpick what they think will sell, while experienced riders like myself are searching for a specific niche product.

So, as I pedal my Ross Mt. Saint Helens homeward my thoughts eventually drift back to the 1980's...where early mountain bikes boasted rugged frames, some with fork braze-ons as standard equipment. A few companies offered the step through frame.

If my readers ever spy the Peugeot Saint Laurent Express Step-through in 21" (white frame). A rarity for sure, but at the moment I'm in dreamland anyway, Give me your best shot.

Rivendell's Clementine - Now We're Talking!

All picture credits: Rivendell on Tumblr

A Rivendell to please loop-frame lovers: the Clementine. It will be available in black, blue, and orange.

If there was ever a Rivendell to please me, this would be it. 700.00 frame (if you pre-order) with overall pricing at approximately 1400.00. Complete with classic Riv braze-ons and lugs.

If the barebones frame excites me, can you imagine my response when Rivendell releases the Clementine in late 2015? Not that I've pre-ordered...but it's the closest bike in speck, with quality componentry, and potential to be the ultimate touring machine of my dreams. The Clementine is everything my Ross isn't.
___________________________________________________________________________
Update: in April 2016, I ordered the "Clementine" now called a "Clem-L". As of July 2016, I am awaiting the "Clementine's" arrival. First order of business: adding fenders and racks so I can do an autumn bike overnight.

Dreaming of Spring

Photo credit: Local Motion's Facebook page

I stumbled on these photos of last year's Cycle the City event. That's me in pink fleece top, grinning from ear to ear as I ride beside my husband (in blue).

Photo credit: Local Motion's Facebook page

With an approaching storm, forecasting 2-6" of heavy snow in our region, I'm dreaming of warm, sunny days to come.

The Ideal Bicycle

If you could only own one bicycle, what would it be?

For those who own a cornucopia of bikes it's inevitable to entertain the possibility of culling the fleet, retaining one all-around bicycle. It would certainly clear out our garage—which isn't a bad thing—though I'm unwilling to break down and do such a ghastly thing quite yet. However, owning a singular bike has its appeal.

Would I keep a bike from my current stable? Or, is there another type that's a more appropriate fit?

For purposes of this exercise I'll consider my current bicycles and their attributes. I won't include the Peugeot UO 14; it's new (to me) and therefore is untested.

What stands out? 
To narrow my thinking process, I've made a concise list of each bike's striking feature(s), in order of personal value.

Ross Mt. Saint Helens - Step-through ease, stable and solid frame, versatile front rack

Trek 830 Antelope - broadest gear range - I use all three chainrings, rock solid frame, best bike for hilly rides

Miyata 610 Grand Touring - most comfortable ride, frame soaks up road surfaces, lightweight frame

Increasingly, I have some discomfort, lifting my leg over traditional diamond frames—even more so with Miyata's higher top tube. Once I'm out riding, however, it becomes a moot point, as long as I refrain from constantly getting on and off the bicycle.

It's never an issue when I ride the Ross. In fact, even with handlebars that are too low, it's pure joy to climb aboard her frame. It's clear that I will—and perhaps already have—gravitate towards step-through style bicycle in the future.

For my ultimate ride, I envision a lightweight frame, ultra low gears (like my Trek with 34t freewheel), ample fork and drop-out clearance to accommodate wide tires and fenders, a simple front rack, plus multi-position handlebars for touring.

For now, the Ross is the closest in my bicycle closet—my go to bike. For sure it's a bit on the hefty side and could use lower gears, but for now it's a bike I can continue tinkering with, and with the ability to raise handlebars, it might suffice as an interim ideal bicycle.

Growth in Winter

With a foot of snow on the ground I often stare past my burgeoning hyacinths, taking in the outdoor whiteness. There are 4-foot snowbanks, people walking dogs, neighbors hiking up the street to work at the hospital or university. My current exercise consists of brisk walks with my husband to his bus stop, trudging through slush or squeaky salt-crusted sidewalks. I love the quietness too, winter's cloak concealing brown grass, absorbing sound, masking naked trees while birds sleep in or have gone south like my in-laws.

I've come to realize that winter is an obligatory cycling rest for me. I watch others, bravely negotiating single digit weather, often taking the lane on a four lane busy highway. As I waited in slippery traffic conditions one morning while driving our children to school, I point out a cyclist inching past the line of cars. It's my husband's doctor. I cringe, afraid for his safety, though I'm sure he'd proclaim, "I'm fine!" To be fair, he's commuted year-round for as long as I can remember. He has fortitude I will never possess. And as much as my brain and heart desire two wheels, winter is my opportunity to ponder, to write, watch lots of movies, peruse maps, and rekindle my bicycle-love by remotely exploring possible adventures for the upcoming warmer months.

My husband and I converse on those morning walks about everything and anything, and invariably the subject swings around to bikes. He mentioned how he's intrigued by the simple single-speed, hinting that a third bike would make his stable complete. I smile, knowing the allure of one-more-bike syndrome all too well. While I love the premise of fixie-style, a three or five speed is more practical for me, what with the hills around here, and I tell him so. Though neither of us have immediate plans to add another bike.

On the contrary, I decided one morning that the red Schwinn I took in a couple months ago that set my emotions on fire, must find another home. The passion to restore a 40-year-old rusty bike—one that didn't fit me nor did I need—finally withered and died. It makes more sense, when I'm ready, to dally with my brother's old 12-speed Peugeot, a dark blue beauty that is in spectacular condition for its age and stored in a dry shed, already mine and plum for the taking.

It's funny how some decisions become clear when viewed on a snowy winter's walk.

The Attraction

For a number of years I've admired a handful of bike models. And like a true aficionado, of course, they are not bicycles I currently own. Nor are the picks exactly similar either, so it's really confounding what I find especially alluring about these four styles.

1. Raleigh One-Way
2. Breezer Uptown LS series (upper right)
3. Jamis Commuter
4. Betty Foy (lower right)

I used to think that all were bikes with great utility, resembling a mountain bike in some form. In other words, they'd make great commuters, which after looking at the grid above you easily could see that's true. Each example could be outfitted to ride to work or haul groceries. In fact, there are endless bikes that would fit the mold. So it must be more than that, I think.

Raleigh One Way, Photo credit: Raleigh Bicycles

The above iteration of the Raleigh One Way certainly doesn't fit my idea of a practical commuter. One speed bikes are not ideal for hilly Burlington, yet I'm repeatedly drawn to this machine. And, to be fair, I've seen this bike with a front rack and upright handlebars, which adds more functionality. After checking out the Raleigh website, and admiring a few more models, I believe it's the simple, and beautifully retro paint scheme that does it for me.

Case in point:

Raleigh Port Townsend, Photo credit: Raleigh Bicycles

Like the One-Way, the Port Townsend is black—my least favorite color—yet I still find it irresistible. Sweet front rack, too. Single gear or multi-gear, I'm in love.

Raleigh Clubman Mixte, Photo credit: Raleigh Bicycles

Even the Clubman Mixte is appealing in boring white. I'm definitely smitten with Raleigh's paint job, plus fenders, and leather toe straps with clips that round out the overall retro look.

Uptown 8 LS in Gloss Port Wine, Photo credit: Breezer Bikes

Uptown Fleet LS in Gloss Silver Slate, Photo credit: Breezer Bikes

And it's not only the thin steel-tubing frame that has its appeal. The Breezer line is based on fatter aluminum frames with chromoly fork. I'm attracted to their Uptown step-through models. I like the upright style, the complimentary fenders, the nice-looking chain guard. And, you can get internally geared options and lighting. All models come with a rack. There's something about the short bracing above the crank that not only, I presume, provides frame strength, but visually enhances the stylish curve, similar to a loop frame bike. I also like the 26" wide wheels, testament to Joe Breezer's roots in mountain bikes. I'm pleased they are once again offering sporty colors, though I'd like to see kelly green and orange added for more variety.

Jamis Commuter 1, Photo credit: Jamis Bikes

Jamis Commuter 1 step-over, Photo credit: Jamis Bikes

I normally shy away from sloping top tube models. It's more difficult to fit fenders, racks, and have ample space for large water bottles—not to mention two containers. But that's because I usually compare these models to my Trek or my husband's Bridgestones—older mountain bikes that we've adapted for touring. When I throw out that line of thinking and study the Jamis Commuter bicycles with an eye towards style and function, I now understand why I admire this bike. It comes equipped with rack, fenders, easy grip shifting, a simple front crank shield, and larger wheels for zippy commutes. With it's seemingly longer wheel base, it looks like a comfortable ride. The sloping frames are common around Burlington, sold at nearby shops. I definitely prefer this to the step-over model, for style. Jamis offers 4 models in their commuter line, a testament to the growing popularity of bikes for the commuting masses.

LGRAB's Betty Foy. Photo credit: Let's Go Ride a Bike

I like that the Betty Foy fits taller women. With my 5'8" leggy height, it's the one caveat with my current step through bike—the Ross's 19" frame is a tad small. I'm not especially tall compared with many women, but older step-over mountain bikes were not made to fit comfortably for longer rides. The Betty Foy is designed for a broad spectrum, and because it's made in the U.S. you can build it with components of your choosing for a proper fit. I love the color. Much like the Bianchi mint green that is a recognizable brand, aqua defines the Betty Foy. But make no mistake, this is a well-built bike too, one of many Rivendell signature styles. I especially like its Mixte style, swept back bars, ability to handle beefy tires. Racks and mustache bars are a must on a Betty Foy of my choosing, plus cream Schwalbe tires.

What do all these have in common?
In retrospect, all these bikes are equipped with racks, fenders, wider tires—my preference for sure. It's not a major revelation, but it's the style of each that time and time again I come back to. Each of these models—and in many cases more than one from the same brand—has panache that speaks to me. I presume my impressions would change, if I ever jump on for a ride, but it's an interesting concept to ponder. With so many designs to choose from, initial responses are very important and hold the power to sway multitudes.

Are there certain bicycles that captivate your psyche?