The Specialized Hard Rock with the Best Bag Setup

The Specialized Hard Rock has become my alternative winter ride during Vermont's periodic dry spells. While the Peugeot step-through, bedecked with studded tires, always takes precedence on snowy surfaces, I've learned to keep a backup bike handy. The Hard Rock's wider tires strike the right balance for safety; handlebars easily support my lights; and two racks allow ample carrying capacity.

The best use for this bag.

Recently, I moved a favorite, versatile bag behind the seat, using it like a quasi-seat pack. Straps are secured to rails with buckles looping around the rack. Any weight is fully supported on the rack. It has been perfect: extra cargo space for a few tools, my purse, a lock, and room for other things. If I plan to pick up a few groceries, I bring an additional bag, attached to the front rack. In the past, all my bikes had panniers - the more space, the merrier! - but for once, just enough space seems like a better arrangement. It's also been much easier to clean the drive train.

I've thoroughly enjoyed riding the Hard Rock this winter.

The more I ride the Hard Rock, the more this bike makes me smile.  

I'm Considering Buying Another Dahon

Dahon Archer.

I continue to love my Dahon Boardwalk, but I wanted to experiment with a different model, seeking another riding experience. Astute readers know I picked up an Eco 3 not too long ago, but I rehomed it because it wasn't vastly different from the Boardwalk. Most bike lovers continually search for something else - it must be wired into our brains - and while I've searched online locally for years, I broadened to our son's Colorado community (I'm visiting in May), scoring on a couple fronts.

I liked the double chainring Dahon Archer, not sold in the US. The owner brought it back from Asia a few years ago. At a steal of a price, I hoped our son could investigate, but the bike sold fast. 

Dahons are good value  - ultimately I'd like a Bike Friday at some point, but I'm not ready for a big investment. I hope to find a used Dahon with features like a broader gear range, and the ability to swap handlebars, possibly in a lighter-weight package. Our bike mechanic son could likely update anything I find.

Dahon Briza

Then I came across a Dahon Briza. I like the 24" wheels and curved frame. This bike strikes a balance between a small wheeled folder and a full-sized bike yet weighs 32lbs. - about the same as my steel Dahon! Folded dimensions are 34"x17"x32", a bit larger of course due to 24" wheels, but should still fall under Amtrak's radar, guaranteeing hassle-free boarding. Disguised in a bag, the folded bike shouldn't be larger than any of the roller suitcases travelers tote on board. While the Briza is available to purchase new, I'll continue looking for a used model.

The fold-and-go, fold-and-stow lifestyle appeals to me as a solitary traveler. Whether pedaling directly to/from an Amtrak station or storing the bicycle inside accommodations, it all adds up to freedom and security. Freedom to hop on a train with a bike without reserving a bicycle slot (folding bikes are treated like luggage); freedom to leave the car at home; freedom to visit a new area - this is the kind of mindset fueling my small wheel adventures.

Coffeeneuring 2024 - More Gouache Exploration, Rides 1-4

 #1 Latte at Specs Coffee in Winooski. It's difficult to take art photos with a phone camera...the paper is white.

Learning to Paint with Gouache

In my twelfth year of the Coffeeneuring Challenge, I've been inspired by Mary's current theme: latte art.  I was successful with last year's simple mug art because I could focus on one image. I want to learn painting but not be overwhelmed by 7 complicated pieces of art. I struggle with what my style should be. Whimsical, realistic, detailed, or how about using unusual colors? I have enjoyed gouache's bold, flat colors so whatever I come up with it's sure to be colorful!

Since my theme requires latte art, I also see this year's challenge as a return to coffee shops. It's been since 2014! For many years, plus during the pandemic, I embraced the Coffee Shop Without Walls opportunities for it's flexibility, where I drank more tea because it was easier and I often went out after work where drinking caffeine was not feasible, nor were coffee shops generally open. Weekend outings are required, though I see this year as an opportunity to try other beverages. What's a cortado? Will I like matcha? One thing I know: a yummy pumpkin beverage is on the agenda. 

1. The Place: Specs Coffee in Winooski

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Latte
Observation: What a beautiful fall day! It was sunny and 55F. 
Total Miles: 16

Wouldn't it be great to request your own latte art? Since I didn't receive any, I painted my own. I also like the addition of a simple, colorful background

I tried out a double-thick poncho I'd created last year. It worked well - my rendition of Vermont chic.

That's my Peugeot on the right.

Wow, a chewy, airy donut!

2 . The Place: Scout Coffee on North Ave. Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Chai Tea Latte
Observation: Another sunny day, chai apparently isn't served with latte art, but I created what I wanted to see!
Total Miles: 11

Meh, day-old almond croissant.

I like the misshapen mug rim.

The autumn colors were still brilliant, even evident across Lake Champlain in New York.

3 . The Place: Barrio Bakery in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 26

Drink: Cappuccino
Observation: Uber quiet shop. Weird vibe, so definitely wouldn't return. Tasty cappuccino. I bought a small bag of day old pastries.
Total Miles: 16

I need to go back to a simpler, one-color background. Painting is always a work in progress.

This was a tasty, grainy pumpkin latte.

Kru Coffee is one of my favorite coffee shops because of varied clientele, and old building location, with the most interesting art and lighting.

Coffee cup lights!

I stopped by to visit #2 son, who showed me his recent single-speed bike build. I thought 5 bikes in my own stable was sufficient, but I've lost count of how many he has.

4 . The Place: Kru Coffee in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 27

Drink: Pumpkin Spice Latte
Observation: Kru is known for great pastries. Unfortunately, when I show up at noon they are sold out! A swirl of color in the cup instead of art. 
Total Miles: 12

Coffeeneuring 2023 - Learning to Paint with Gouache, Rides 5-7

 

#5 - This mug was a hostess gift at wedding shower - the hostess was a potter.

To recap, I'm learning to paint with gouache by completing mini paintings of special mugs used in the challenge. A complete painting usually takes two days; one for sketching and painting a base layer color: the second for completing the mug portion, then adding a complimentary background color. I'm happy with the results - love bold colors - and plan to hang a framed collage in our kitchen.

Coffeeneuring #5 was a special event, heading out for my first ride on my newly built Specialized Hard Rock. I set up the Jack-the-Bike-Rack for immediate utility so I could carry coffeeneuring supplies. 

Stunning afternoon light at Bayside Park.

5. The Place: Bayside Park, Colchester

Date: Sunday, November 12

Drink: English Breakfast Tea with maple sugar & milk
Observation: The maiden voyage of my Specialized Hard Rock. It's fun!

Total Miles: 12

#6 - a 2019 gift from a dear friend. The petroglyph characters are throwing spears at a SUV (out of view)

This was my only evening ride of the challenge. With high winds, I pedaled around a bit and finally found a well-lit, sheltered spot behind a community center. 

6. The Place: Picnic tables behind the Miller Center, Burlington

Date: Wednesday, November 15

Drink: Green Tea with honey
Observation: I rode around for a while, seeking a well-lit spot sheltered from the strong breeze.

Total Miles: 10

#7 - a pottery mug adorned with three dimensional maple leaf, a gift from my brother.

On the last day of the challenge, I rode to the nearest beach at lunchtime and sat for a moment on a log, sipping tea and admiring the view. It was very peaceful.

7. The Place: Rossetti Park Beach

Date: Monday, November 20

Drink: Tulsi Tea
Observation: Lunchtime scamper to the nearest quiet beach, avoiding a cold, dark evening ride, just making the event deadline.
Total Miles: 3

Specialized Hard Rock Ultra - Great Utility, and Then Some!

1993 Specialized Hard Rock Ultra: unique pink and purple fade.

I didn't know I would replace my much loved Trek Antelope so soon! I have always admired 1980-1990s rigid mountain bikes for their relaxed geometry and utility - they make great all around bikes, whether that's commuting, touring, riding with family or, in colder climates are adept as winter beaters - add studded tires and don't worry too much because it's an old bike. Added bonus: frames are upgradeable with new components.

Amazing shape for a 30 year old frame! I feel very lucky.

Our youngest son is a bike mechanic at a shop that accepts bikes and parts donations - they rehab older bikes for resale or to help lower income folks get decent transportation at nominal cost. I happened to mention months ago that if he ever came across a certain model and color in my preferred 20" size, then give a holler, expecting it was like finding a needle in a haystack.

Granola handle bars set a little higher than my seat. Stem is at maximum height. I expect there will be tweaks down the road like a taller stem or bars with more rise, non-traditional fenders, etc.

I got a text and photo while I was just starting a solitary mountain bike weekend. "Hey mom, look what I found." When he said it was in great shape, it didn't take long to give him the green light. I was ecstatic of course, thinking about the possibilities, then, if I'm honest, wondering how I could personally justify this new addition, bringing what I thought was a perfect number of bicycles from 4 back to 5.

From August to November we started collecting parts. I bought the VO Granola bars as an alternative, though aligning width-wise with much loved Soma Oxford and Ritchey Kyote bars. Had the VO Crazy bars been narrower, that would've been my first choice. I also chose a loved saddle - the Terry Topo - at least for starters. 

Between our son's knowhow, sourcing new and used parts, and my industry discount - I work for Terry Bicycles - we saved money, and honestly I wouldn't have considered this project on my own otherwise. 
 

He put together a 2X assortment of components that would play nice together. The only hiccup was configuring the V-Brake setup, necessitating ordering a top tube clamp to correctly guide the rear brake cable. He also added his signature two colored spoke nipples, bordering the valve, when building wheels.

Immediate riding impression: I felt at home! I've missed this kind of comfort, 2" plush tires, and diamond frame. I immediately transferred the Jack-the-Bike-Rack for needed utility, and more recently, repainted an older, discontinued Blackburn Mountain rack, installing it fairly easily - saved from the Trek Antelope, so that old beauty lives on through this recent reincarnation. And, I have now fulfilled a dream of owning a purple bike!

Rack and my commuter pannier makes this bike more useful.

And I shouldn't have worried about the Hard Rock's place in my collection. Shortly after acquiring the frame, my husband and I rode a rugged Northern Rail Trail where my Rachel, unfortunately in her current setup, wasn't the best choice. I kept thinking how the Hard Rock would be a perfect complement, lending comfort to rough terrain.

For those seeking build details...

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.

Getting to Know the Bassi Rachel

CL Cycles is a Montreal shop and develops their own brand of Bassi steel frames and complete bikes.

CL Cycles' Bassi Rachel frame caught my eye a couple years ago. It was their 2021 model updates, however: ability to accommodate wider tires, a second water bottle cage mount, and V-brake compatibility, that made me take a second look.

I test rode two sizes to determine which fit best.

What I initially liked about the Rachel was its shorter wheelbase and sparkly Beaujolais paint color. I could start from scratch and pay attention to overall bike weight. Our bike mechanic son built wheels, set them up tubeless for starters, working after hours to help keep my costs down. I checked in periodically to watch the build progress. I specified 2 X Low Gearing (love that about the Clem), easy shifting, and it was fine to go with used parts if it made sense. I am picky about handlebars though, so I bought Nitto's Dove bar, a comparable equivalent to the much loved but out-of-stock Soma Oxford's that graced the Clem. 

I vacillated over the housing color - too many choices - and my son suggested grey because it was classy.

Components include Nitto's Dove handle bar, a new Light & Motion coordinated headlight, and used, grimy Ergon Cork Grips, a Velo Orange stem (though I asked for removable faceplate style), SRAM drivetrain and Shimano silver and black click shifters (used?), which are brilliant for my arthritic hands! 

One day, Simple Green and I attacked the grips and I whittled corks for bar end plugs. 

Riding the the Rachel is like night and day from it's predecessor! 

Simply put, it's fast. Our son explained that lightweight wheels, set up tubeless, make a big difference, so I'm glad I sprang for whatever he suggested. I am leery of touring with this setup because it's foreign, and as much as I love 1980's bikes, new bicycle technology has advantages. At any rate, the rims and Rene Herse tires can accommodate tubes, should I wish to go that route in the future.

I have always loved this simply styled English-made steel rack. It graced my husband's 1970's Peugeot when we rode across the country, then I adopted it on my skinny-tired Peugeot, and now with an extension (refitted by Old Spokes Home) it's a perfect complement on Rachel.

Rachel's 55cm frame has 700c wheels.

With a rear rack, I've gained some functionality - something I require of all my bikes. A kickstand is next, along with a setback seat post. Since Rachel (pronounced Ra-CHEL in Canada) is my touring bicycle, fenders and a front rack are on the agenda. I'd like to explore Velo Orange or PDW black fenders, and investigate Jack the Bike Rack as a removable front rack option - made available to the public soon.

Anything I'm missing?