and today's ride was pleasant (no foam, no smells). finally getting some proper september coolness in the air. still waiting for a little rain, though.

i put a rack and panniers on the bike, instead of wearing a backpack, and while i appreciate having a less sweaty back, i have noticed it takes more effort, in the form of engine braking, to slow my fixed gear on the downhills and to stop at traffic lights. i'm probably using the front brake more than i was before.