Sooo.... for some strange reason, lately I've had the hankering for a single speed or fixed gear bike, and told my shop to put something together for me, starting with a Vigorelli frame. It caught my eye - what can I say?

I'd gotten the sense that such a bike would help me improve my technique and cycling abilities generally, and thought it would be nice, in any event, to have a different kind of ride now and then (I've tried, but just can't stop myself from shifting, pretending to have a single speed). But I was also starting to think maybe this was going to be an extravagant exercise in not much good.

So today I stopped by the shop. I told the owner that I was sure I'd want the bike set up as a single speed, but that I'd like to take a fixed gear bike out for a little spin, just to see. So, they have a Langster in my size and he sends me out on it, giving a few pointers first.

Well, it may come as no surprise to some, but the experience was rather awkward. I made some comical moves. I made it to the corner, then walked the bike back. Then rode it to the corner again. Fumbled to a stop again. Rode it at a creeping pace back to the shop. But WOW - I could hardly contain my glee - what an awesome feeling! I can't wait! Should be ready this time next week. I'll want to ride it home in SS mode, what with all the traffic and unfamiliarity (it will be challenging enough getting used to the lack of gearing, I think), but I'll flip it to fixed as soon as I get home. I want to ride it all day long like that!