Greetings, all. I'm a 45 year-old professor living with my wife, two cats, and about 2000 books in a tiny apartment in Chicago, Illinois.

About four weeks ago, my MD read me the riot act about diabetes, being overweight, and exercise. A day later, a dermatologist examining me from head to toe for melanomas asked if I was a cyclist. I told him I hadn't been on a bike in 30 years and he replied that I definitely had the legs for it. Just then, the lightbulb went on above my head and I started looking into folders (the only kind of bikes that can peaceably coexist with 2000 books in a 900 sq ft apartment) - beginning by lurking on this forum.

As of this past Tuesday, I am the proud owner of a red Strida LT that earns me admiring glances and frequent requests to fold and unfold from passersby as I ride along the lakefront and through River North's busy streets. Also as of this past Tuesday, due to a test ride at Rapid Transit Cycle Shop (Chicago's folding and recumbent bike specialists), I have a huge jones for a single speed Brompton. (This jones is encouraged by my wife, who has designs on the Strida.)

I have learned a lot from the many posters on this forum and hope to give as good as I've gotten once I've gained the experience to say something worthwhile. My thanks and good wishes to the folding gang.