On friday night I was so excited about not using the car and going everywhere I needed to go on my bike that I went to bed early to get ready for the big event. Unfortunately my neighbor threw a crazy party that didn't stop till 4:30 A.M. I got up late but still destine to go to the grocery store in the morning. The day was beautiful and hot,by the time I got back home it was 86 degrees and that was 9:00 A.M. The trip to the grocery store and back was actually a lot easier than I thought.

Some things I realized were that I needed another pannier I quickly fill one and couldn't buy toilet paper because I had no room for it. Since you all told me to be careful about the extra weight on one side of the bike I took my bike to a secluded area to get back on and I am glad I did because I almost drop the bike trying to get on, I got home in no time and thinking that it was pretty pathetic that I normally drive a car to get to the grocery store. I decided when it got a little later I would go to the LBS and pick up another pannier and go to Whole foods to pick up some Tahini and stuff. The good thing about Whole foods is that they actually have a bike rack.

Sunday, was go to Home Depot and pick up some pluming supply this was an 8 mile ride to the store and a half mile section through some what I consider dangerous bike riding area. I walk through most it trying to figure out how to get to where I wanted to go and get there safe. I did find out a better way and used it on the way back. On the way back from Home Depot I decided for some reason to ride a small section on the sidewalk and you can see from the picture I try to cut through the grass and my tire got caught between the sidewalk and grass and the bike went down but I manage to land on my feet.

Now I just wish that I could go to work on my bike but unfortunately that is not possible because of the distance. I can see myself sticking with this.

more pictures

It was also very nice getting into my car this morning and having a full tank of gas.

Sweet look to your bike, what is it?

It is an old Japanese Bianchi. Original paint, just removed the stickers that were cracked and falling off.

I also would like to take this time to say thank you. You have no idea how much you have motivated me to ride and I appreciate it.

...I also would like to take this time to say thank you. You have no idea how much you have motivated me to ride and I appreciate it.

:blush2:

Nice bike and congratulations on going sans car. I've thought of getting that reflective bar tape for my commuter... does it ever annoy you when riding day or night though?

My two cents:
If you are going to do it more often and maybe leave your bike locked outside for longer - I'd suggest you splash out on a more substantial lock, something like a U-lock or chain with mini U-lock (Kryptonite, Abus etc). They're a lot heavier and harder to carry around, but offer far more protection than a cable lock. That thin-gauge cable lock would last about 4 min with decent wire cutters and it would take 5 sec with bike a thieves' tool of choice: bolt cutters.

Awesome post. I need to get a bike I can attach a trailer or panniers to. Everything is so close to my house I don't really have another excuse not to ride.

Nice bike and congratulations on going sans car. I've thought of getting that reflective bar tape for my commuter... does it ever annoy you when riding day or night though?

My two cents:
If you are going to do it more often and maybe leave your bike locked outside for longer - I'd suggest you splash out on a more substantial lock, something like a U-lock or chain with mini U-lock (Kryptonite, Abus etc). They're a lot heavier and harder to carry around, but offer far more protection than a cable lock. That thin-gauge cable lock would last about 4 min with decent wire cutters and it would take 5 sec with bike a thieves' tool of choice: bolt cutters.

I really don't notice the reflective tape, the only time I notice it is when I take pictures of the bike.

I have thought of getting a better lock but I figure this isn't a high crime area and that no one would want to steal an old bike. I did get concerned when I went to Home Depot, I was thinking you can buy a bolt cutter and steal the bike in no time flat. Since now you jinxed me, I have to buy a better lock.

Friday I plan to do some errands sans car. Need to get my hair cut and go to the local coffee roaster. Easy to do on the fixie. Guess I'll wear real shorts instead of lycra so as not to scare the customers. My wife goes shopping with me so grocery shopping isn't an option.

I am not even gonna ask how you got around without any toiler paper that weekend.:)

You the man!

What, toilet paper won't fit in your cycling jersey pockets? Couldn't you just spool the TP onto your bar ends?

I wanted to buy a 4 pack. You all will be happy to know I just came from buying TP. Also you will notice that I have a pack of baby wipes in my bag just in case.