...for providing this thread. My GMC Denali is currently on a Fedex truck somewhere between Bell, CA and my apartment here in Marina Del Rey, CA.

After reading your story, I am really excited about receiving my 1st bike in over two decades.

I hope to be able to ride it to/from work 21 miles roundtrip, as well as to the beach which is less than a mile away on weekends.

I was wondering what kind of replacement seat you ended up purchasing?

I noticed the Vitesse Deluxe Cruiser Seat for $20 bucks looks pretty comfy, but it is large, and might be weird on a road bike.

I really don't care what the snobby riders think, I just want a comfortable outdoor experience. 162 Reviewers give it 4.5 out of 5 stars too!

It looks like you've done a great job modding your bike, I'm not mechanically inclined, but what you've done doesn't seem too difficult.

I'm sure I'll need a LBS to perform my 1st few tuneups.

I'm surprised you didn't have a spare tube for that blow out you had during one of your group rides.

I plan to pack a spare in my backpack, along with the following items:

helmet

gloves

air pump

chain repair kit

tool kit

first aid kit

I'm a total newbie, so I don't know what other repair/emergency items I might need yet!

What is the deal with the Bell Sports No-Mor Flats inner tubes? Are they any good? I notice they are only available in 26" x 1.75" - 1.95" size.

How does that convert to the 700 x 32 on the Denali?

Sorry for all the questions, just excited!

The more bikes on the road, the better. Maybe drivers will become more aware!