Last week, my U lock popped off the bungee that holds it to the frame (those holders do not work with aluminium frames), and took out two spokes. My normal bike is now in the shop, and I am riding my"back-up" bike -- an old Specialized Crossroads. Those fenderless wheels are a strange sight, there is no rack, and I have to wear rubber bands around my trousers cuffs. The front derailleur only works on two gears, the seat is held together with duct tape, and the handlebar grips are worn and sticky. Not the most pleasant thing to ride, but less of a hassle than driving in DC traffic. All, in all, I rather enjoyed this warm, sunny morning.

I wrapped my raingear over the handlebars, as I am prepared, but I would rather it not rain during my commute. With luck, the rains will hold off until the return of my regular bike.

Paul