If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try, try, try, try… (Comments: 0)

As you know, the other day I detonated four tubes trying to change my first flat tire. Some very helpful folks gave me some tips, and today I tried it again. Within minutes, I had both new tires on and the tubes inflated (to a lower pressure this time) and the bike rides like a champ.

Not content with that victory, I decided to replace the 25-year-old bar tape on the Nomade. Scott at Full Moon Vista gave me some helpful guidance on removing the old tape and wrapping the new stuff. After the ordeal of the tires, I was more than a little worried, but I did it! The Nomade now sports some lovely new cork bar tape to go with the new tires.

Four months ago, I hadn’t ridden a bike in years. Since then, I’ve ridden 1,000 miles, purchased three bikes, learned some basic maintenance, and started this site. And I’ve made some wonderful new friends in the cycling community. What’s not to like?

Next up: The Xtracycle assembly party is happening this week. By the end of the week, Rochester will be home to an Xtracycle.