All,

Just got back from a week of camping up on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. Rode up Hurricane Ridge, if anybody is familiar with that climb. About 5200 feet, most of it in the last 17 miles. Whew...

Thanks for the thoughts on Ithaca in the winter. Looks like people are of accord when it comes to salt being tough on bicycles. I've got a rather small apartment, so I'm not sure that I'll have room for two bikes. Perhaps I can ride a my nice bike until it gets nasty, then find an old beater to abuse during the winter. Not sure where I'll put it though.

But moxfyre, I had a question: Wouldn't a MTB with road tires be geared pretty forgivingly for Ithaca hills? I've been riding a touring bicycle for the last few years, and it has MTB gearing, at least in the back. I've got some lingering knee issues from a fall in 2003, which is why I was leaning toward a MTB for general use. I'm curious to know how a touring bike worked better for you.

Oh, and you're right, Tim. X-country skis are also in my future. When life gives you snow, you just have to go out and play!

Thanks again everybody! Ride on,

-5john