WINDY!

Well, I got my wish this morning and it was windy in every direction.  However, it was cooler today, but that didn't last.  The 102 temperature makes for a long ride home, but still worth the effort. 

In an effort to educate non-cyclists, I would like to discuss the type of bike Im using and some of the options out there for those who wish to commute.

My bike is a 2009 Fuji Cross Pro.  It is equipped with Shimano Ultegra shifters and derailleurs.  Basically, these are second from the top of the line parts from Shimano's road component line.  The gearing, though, is not the same as a regular road bike.  It has a 34-46 chanring up front and a ten speed 12-28 cassette in the back.  These are not EASY climbing gears, but make the hills quite doable with steady power.  The frame is all aluminum with drilled boss mounts for my pannier rack.  The fork is carbon fiber and soaks up the vibrations and makes the body a lot happier.  Currently, I am using Hutchinson Bulldog CX tires in a 700x38c configuration with Specialized Airlock tubes.  The larger tire width allows me to run with goop in the tubes to resist flats and keep things rolling along without incident. 

The panniers fully loaded make the bike VERY heavy.  Unloaded, with no racks on it, this Fuji weighs in right at 19 pounds.  But with the bags, it comes in at 45 pounds.  That sucks, however, the bike is so well-made, you don't necessarily notice the extra heft due to the stiffness of the frame and balance that provides. 

So, that's my bike.  I'm not sure it's a good idea to use a racing bike as a commuter, but it's what I have, so there. 

In the upcoming posts, I will dispense advice for loading the bags and maintaining balance and the obstacles you might run across, other than cars whilst commuting.

Have a wonderful evening!