Month: January 2021

Bicycle Dreams

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Last April, I detailed the rebuild of my Kona Honky Tonk road bike. I swapped the modern components for a twenty year old, 9 speed drivetrain and silver wheelset. I really wanted to send the frame out to get painted, but the new realities of 2020, had me, like many other people focus not so much on material things, but more on life experiences.

Before

Since I’m sidelined with a foot injury this winter, I decided to dive head first into 3 bike projects that should keep me rolling for most of 2021. First, I stripped the Honky Tonk down to frame and fork and sent it out to The Color Factory for a fresh new look.

Painting a frame can get quite pricey. Some shops charge as much, if not more that the cost of a good steel frame. I found The Color Factory about 10 years ago, and have since had several frames painted. Bruce Risely, Owner-Operator, uses DuPont Emron two pack paint. His prices are very reasonable. One color, with a metallic, pearl finish and 3 layers of clear coat run about $200.

After

I’ve been extremely happy with the results. Bruce is always there to answer any questions and share unlimited photos of his amazing work. (609)242-0665. The frame has to be stripped of all parts and shipped to The Color Factory, 23 Main Street Waretown, NJ 08758.

So, if you have that old bike, that you love but really wish it could look new, give the color factory a try, you won’t be disappointed.

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Forging Forward

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With the new year upon us, resolutions, promises and hope are all around, encompassing us with the idea that we can do better, we can change. These days, the cool thing to say is, “I don’t do resolutions”. The truth is, this year I’ve sort of made a promise to myself.

While I am happy with my physical body, my nutritional intake, my family, my friends and where I see myself in this bizarro world, I can’t help feeling like something’s missing. So I ask myself: am I a good person? Maybe. Am I a little selfish? Probably. Am I missing the important things because I’m so focused on what I want to accomplish, that I lack the attention span to see the incredible gifts that those around me have to offer? Absolutely!

That said, my focus this year will be to slow down and listen. I’m also going to stop worrying about how many miles I ride and how much elevation I’ve gained. I’m going to ride because I love being on a bike. I’m going to look, listen and hopefully feel everything that Mother Nature has to offer. If I can’t ride because of other commitments or because of inclement weather or illness, so be it.

On Monday, I got out and played in the snow a little. It felt great. I still plan on doing some long rides this year as well as exploring, camping and adventuring on the bike. Hope to see you out there.

What’s Playing (What am I listening to while writing or what’s dancing around in my head while riding), today – The Best of Bread