Bicycles

Are bikes like their owners?

Some bikes are top of the line, aerodynamic carbon fiber bikes with titanium components. They are the fastest of all the bikes, but whole identity is wrapped up in their appearance. Soon they will be an old hand-me-down and cease to have identity in their own minds.

Some bikes just want to have fun. Bright colored cruisers with baskets and horns, and chrome fenders. They do not move with a purpose though, and don't get used often. They get to go parks and participate in parades, but they don't get to do real work.

The family bike is usually moderately priced, sturdy, able to pull a baby wagon, hybrid, not really good at anything but pretty good at a lot of things. After all, bikes have to make some sacrifices when they have a family.

Adventure bikes have huge shocks to tolerate a lot of pain. They are only happy on the edge, and get worn out the quickest. Joint replacements are common. These adrenaline junkies who were made for the edges of cliffs.

Recycled bikes make the best of whats around. "It is what it is" is their motto. There is no sense reaching for the stars. Instead of needing to be the best, recycled bikes do the best with what they have.

Vintage classics get cooler with age. They are slow, and don't try to impress anyone, but get along with all bikes. They are not always excited about getting out of the house, but when they do, they get the job done. They often get passed down. They are interested in their legacy.

Track bikes are hip and impractial. I tried one for a while, but I ran into a missionary riding one downtown. I guess I am not that hip.

My bike is a fancy frankenstine bike with half mountain bike and half road bike components. It cost my life's savings. It can fold up into a suitcase, and likes to travel abroad. It is ridden every day of the year. When you look at it its not much to see. But it is the only one of its kind, and very unique and special.