Riding a restored, 27 lb. Nishiki with stem-mounted shifters for the last 2 weeks, I've really enjoyed the experience of riding and shifting a brand-new, 35-year-old racing bike. Move the hand. Grasp the lever, move decisively and then back off 2 mm. With practice, it becomes as positive and smooth as any pansy index brifter.

After 4 days it was second nature. After 2 weeks I didn't even think about it.

Alas, last night I had a pinch flat on that wonderful old steelie. Fortunately it occurred at the end of the ride, so I just loaded up the bike on the car and brought it home. I'll change the tube tonight.

And that's how I found myself on the carbon-framed Spesh Tarmac this morning. I needed to ride. I headed north along the ocean, happy to have 2 bikes to choose from.

But then it happened. A long gradual descent presented itself, demanding a smaller rear cog. My hand naturally moved to the right side of the stem.

There was nothing there.

I looked down and experienced a moment of puzzlement before realizing I only needed to push the right paddle inboard with my 3rd finger. Oh, YEAH!

This must be what it's like to drive an automatic after learning to drive on a manual. Easy enough . . . just a little creepy at first. DB