Helen Wheels

Hi, I've been reading the forums for a few years now but had never posted a question until today. I've used cycling as transportation on and off from college to present -- 34 years. I bike commute to work everyday all year round, even when it's sunny -- ha ha

I used to ride recreationally 30-62 miles a day. I don't ride recreationally much anymore because I moved to rainy Portland from a high desert climate in Wash. state. A friend and I did a tour of Hell's Canyon in eastern Oregon several years ago. After I retire, I plan on doing a lot more touring.

I like old chromoly bikes but am planning to invest in a new steel bike by one of the many builders here in Portland. I just don't like the looks of the new bike frames, nor do I like the looks of plastic bikes.

zenith

Welcome to the forum!

Helen Wheels

zenith,
thanks a lot!
HW

CaptainHaddock

Hey Helen! Welcome to to the forum and welcome to Portland!

I'd only argue one point, you can ride just as much here & year 'round too. you've just got to be ok not only being cold, but wet too! I tend to ride out to Sauvi Island and back on all but the coldest / rainiest days. But i'm from here, and at some point, riding inside is boring!

Sixty Fiver

I visit Portland often and ride there daily... once you figure out how to deal with the wetness and a little cold you can ride almost everyday.

Although I admire many of the builders in Portland I find that the waiting time can be a little long and in some cases, you pay a much higher price than you would if you dealt with other established frame builders although there are exceptions.

One of my favourite builders and people is Tony Pierera... he does amazing and practical work.

Do order your bike with disc brakes... the rain and dirt are such that rim brakes are not the best choice if you want your rims to last.

It is a beautiful city with great people.