I get a lot of grief from my co-workers because I go against the grain in most things. I work in a high end bike shop. We have the latest and greatest of everything. Now don’t get me wrong I embrace technology. But sometimes WOOL AND STEEL can’t be beat. So “On my Commute today” I wore Wool socks from ASSOS, Wool shorts from WOOLISTIC (which are freakin’ fantastic!), Wool arm and knee warmers from DEFEET. Wool short sleeve jersey from BROOKS, and a WOOL cycling cap from CASTELLI (which now my kids want one). I rode my STEEL FIXED GEAR made by Waterford under the Milwaukee Bicycle Co. badge.
I also get grief for my DETOUR BAG and my reflective vest from NATHAN SPORTS. But I don’t care. As you can see I have a change of clothes, my lunch (mmmm Penne and chicken) cell phone, flat repair, spare batteries for my tail light, cleat covers for walking at the train station and I still have plenty of room left over for my arm and leg warmers when it warms up. Get a Detour Bag so much less cumbersome than a backpack or courier bag for just a few items. And why have something on your body causing discomfort when you can put it on your bike and let the bike “carry” it for you?
As the Florida freeway signs used to say “Arrive Alive”. My modification to that is I’d rather arrive alive and ride again tomorrow. Don’t let peer pressure keep you from being safe and visible to cars. Wear reflective gear and put lights on your bike– yes even your “race bike”. Oh yeah you might not look “cool” to your friends but you’ll be alive to come home to your family. Now what’s more important? Go against the grain every now and then—be yourself!
George's Epic Adventures 