It is often said that the perfect number of bikes is N+1, where N is the number of bikes you currently have. I can attest to this, and I’m still in the early stages. I only have two (ridable) bikes. I do want more. I’d love to have a mountain bike. I’d like a single-speed. A fast road bike would be neat. A recumbent trike would be awesome.
Nermal (retired)
In April 2008, I bought the first real bike I’ve owned as an adult. It’s a Giant Cypress. It’s a good, solid, inexpensive, steel-framed hybrid bicycle. I have since christened him Nermal. Nermal has been a learning experience for me. I’ve swapped out many parts for comfort, reliability, and utility.
Nermal was put to rest in May 2010 after over 3000 miles of abuse. A cracked bottom bracket shell meant it wasn’t worth repairing. I stripped the good parts and hand-built wheels for my daughters bike.
Oria
In July 2008 I bought a recumbent bicycle. I had been looking at them for a while, but holding off due to cost.
I had stopped into the bike shop for other things, and was offered a test ride on a Bacchetta Agio, a long-wheelbase recumbent. After riding it around the parking lot, I was hooked, and I bought it then and there.
It took me until January 2009 to settle on a name. She shall be known as Oria.
(Surly) Sue (rhymes with Curly Q?)
I had been lusting over a Surly Long Haul Trucker pretty much as soon as I realized I didn’t actually need a recumbent to be comfortable. In January 2010, I bought this beauty of a bike. Sue has been outfitted for touring, which I intend to some of this year. Front and rear racks are also great for commuting and grocery runs.