Marcus drove our bikes down from the Massachusetts based Dutch Bicycle Company in a van today. I knew they were coming but couldn't blog about it because I didn't want to spoil the surprise for Gregory's birthday! When Marcus called to let me know that they were here, I went downstairs to meet him and we carried them up the stairs and rolled them into the hall so I could bring Gregory's in and surprise him with it.
Marcus then made some adjustments to Gregory's rear wheel - and helped us get the seats set at the right height. He was great. We chatted a little - I asked him what kind of bike he rides - and you guessed it, he's a fixie fan.
Now, on to my bike. The Velorbis Churchill Classic. Completely upright riding posture, totally comfortable, sturdy and solid. Gregory and I took our Churchill bikes (his Balloon and my Classic) out for a test ride across the Williamsburg Bridge tonight. We coasted over metal plates, pot holes, gaps and cracks.
Everyone on foot and wheels looked in awe at the sight of our bikes. I know that sounds crazy, but it's true. We got lots of looks. I especially enjoyed the road bikers racing past, straining to look up and see what they were passing and trying to figure out why we looked so comfortable....The 7 speeds were perfect, shifting was smooth and easy - braking (both front and rear) was smooth and solid.
Gregory is totally in love with his fat tired, totally pimped out Churchill Balloon. I'll admit to being a little jealous of how hot it looks and how smooth those balloon tires are to ride on. And he especially like his brooks saddle bag. But my Classic is exactly what I wanted in a bike.
There's nothing like riding across a bridge, in the evening - the beauty of a sun setting - the light and energy of the city in that state of flux... Our test ride across the bridge was so invigorating. I only took one photo while riding - I'm going to have to practice that... And I'm getting a new camera this week, so the photos will get much better...
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10 comments:
so exciting!
What?!!!! How did I miss this?!!!! Stupid work, I missed all the excitement. It all happened so fast - I can't believe it! Glad I tuned in.
I have chills of excitement for all of you and can't wait to see the upcoming posts - this was a great one! Love the slightly cheese-ball, slightly arty-cool shot of the bike on the bridge with the sun setting and coming through the frame. Could I use more exclamation points?!!!!!!
I like Steven - so unexpected and unpretentious. But I know Sleipnir will win the day.
Thanks ehouse!
Sigrid - It happened even faster on this end. Suddenly they were here and we were riding across the bridge!
It's ok, you can call it totally cheese-ball. : ) It is proudly choose-ball.
Now, anyone know how to pronounce "Sleipnir"?
Congrats! They look great! I love the balloon tyres... i have them on my Velorbis Scrap Deluxe. they were actually very popular back in the 1920's so a bit of retro cooliciousness never hurts.
Pronounce it: "Slep - near"
Even in bike saturated Copenhagen my Scrap Deluxe with it's beige balloon tyres never ceases to draw glances from all sexes and all cyclists. Enjoy the envy.
a hunched over riding position is so unnatural and rather silly. Sit up proudly and pity the 'hunchies'
congratulations, michael. they're beautiful. i know how you agonized over this decision - i am so glad that you are happy! enjoy your rides today!
What gorgeous bikes, and what a beautiful city to ride in.
Alex - Thanks! I can't wait for the weekend to do lots of riding!
Krista - Thank you! They are incredible machines... And NYC has it's moments...
Congrats! They're beautiful bikes. It's great that you broke them in right away.
Freewheel - thank you! yeah - at first, I wasn't sure because it had been raining and they were so shiny and new, and then i thought 'what am I doing' we MUST ride these now, or forever be plagued with 'first scratch fear'. Needless to say, they are sturdy and strong bikes - and I can't wait for the first ding, dirt and rust. A used bike is always more natural looking...
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