Highway550 - Bicycling!

2026-10-09T10:05:19.240-06:00

Surly LHT frame break:

2026-10-07T23:02:37.990-06:00

Revisiting the frame break discovered on a routine cleaning of the Surly Long Haul Trucker

after about 40k miles of riding.

HWY550 !

2026-09-28T21:53:23.258-06:00

https://apple.news/ALtxME3t2QkGbPVjiKAIrOw

Great article on Hwy550

2026-09-28T21:48:59.652-06:00

a storm is coming !~

2026-09-16T08:55:21.668-06:00

Montrose, CO

1974 MOTOBECANE GRAND JUBILEE R/T

2026-08-21T15:57:10.511-06:00

The Review in 1974!

MOTOBECANE GRAND JUBILE R/T !

By Richard Jow • Bicycling!

• May ’74 • Pages 26–27

(the above pictures are of my 1974 Motobecane Grand Jubilee
- 50 plus years later! Indeed it was/is a great touring bicycle)

The Article:

ROAD TEST: MOTOBECANE GRAND JUBILEE

Finish Rating

Paint. 2

Chrome. 1

Lug work. 1

Dropout & fork tip joining. 1

Detailing. 1

Overall finish & workmanship. 1

Handling. Rating

Steering. 2

Cornering. 1

Undesirable frame whip. 2

Ride. 1

Overall handling. 1

Rating scale: 1 = excellent; 2 = very good; 3 = good; 4 = acceptable; 5 = not acceptable.

The Grand Jubilee is the newest addition to the Motobecane line in the United States. So new, in fact, that unless you have their 1974 catalog, it isn’t listed. I understand from the importer, Lawee, Inc., that a similar model has been in production and has been sold in France for some time now, so it’s not coming to the United States unproven. The Grand Jubilee was introduced last year with the advent of the Huret Jubilee derailleur setup, from which the name was derived. Motobecane built this model as a high-quality touring machine, and I tested it with this in mind. Most of the time I carried baggage of one sort or another—large handlebar bag and/or a large saddlebag, with weight varying between 12–27 pounds. I could easily have carried 40–50 pounds with the addition of panniers, but I think the weights used gave me a fair indication of this bike’s characteristics. This is not a very fast machine as a competition machine is fast. It’s more inclined to a leisurely riding pace. This can be attributed to several things, the seat tube angle being paramount. The 70-degree frame angles place the bottom bracket much farther ahead of the seat position than is normal, so the riding position is a more comfortable one for longer rides. The seat tube stresses more in flexure and makes for more judicious use of the leg muscles. A 17½-inch chainstay and 2½-inch fork rake give this bike a 39½-inch wheelbase, relatively short for a touring bike. One might tend to think the 17½-inch chainstay would introduce a fair amount of flexure vertically in the rear triangle, especially when loaded down, but I didn’t find this to be true. The latter 70-degree angle also positions the top of the seat tube farther back in relation to the rear wheel. This, in turn, results in a more vertical seat stay, making the rear triangle more stiff in a vertical loading position. Lateral whip is not excessive, but it can be felt when there’s excess weight being carried. Cornering can be quite fast with this bike. The tighter cornering here is possible because of the shorter wheelbase. One thing unique to this touring frame is that it’s built with the close clearances usually associated with racing machines. As a result, the 610 model Weinmanns used provided a quicker reaction in braking response and a stiffer connection between brake and frame. However, with the narrower gap between the tire and bridge and fork crown, the installation of mudguards will be tight. The Nervex lugs are of the cutout variety, not being used too extensively today. Most manufacturers are using the more simple spearpoint type, which are said to dissipate the stresses built up in the joints more evenly and efficiently. This makes sense on competition frames, but for others I still prefer the cutout lugs. If nothing else, they look nice and lend class to the frame. Motobecane never disappoints me in their choice of hang-on equipment, and this model is no exception. Each component does what it’s supposed to without skyrocketing the bike’s cost out of sight. All of the components are lightweight alloy, except for the Ideale 80 leather saddle. The saddle in 1974 has been changed to Unica suede-type saddle. This bike is the first one equipped with the Huret Jubilee as stock equipment that I’ve been able to spend a bit of time with. I had my doubts about this unit, the lightest derailleur—6 ounces, total, for the rear and front units—on the market today. My doubts are gone, for touring this model is excellent. It’s outstanding in workmanship and finish. It didn’t give any trouble on the 14–28 Atom freewheel and shifted more positively than other Huret derailleurs I’ve used. I don’t think anything need be said about the Stronglight “49” crankset, other than that the 40/52 chainrings give good ratios for a touring machine. One part of the drive train was noticeably absent: toe clips and straps didn’t come as stock equipment. I’ve said this many times before, but until a rider actually tries clips and straps and gets used to them, he won’t know what efficiency is. I did notice that this model on the sales floor of Wheels Unlimited in San Rafael, California (whose owner was kind enough to provide me with this test bike) was equipped with clips and straps, courtesy of the dealer. My overall impression of this new model from Motobecane after three weeks and about 400 miles was a good one. It didn’t turn out to be one of those bikes I rode because I had a test to do, as sometimes happens. At $250, the Grand Jubilee’s cost is higher than average for a touring machine, but I feel that it’s well worth it. The bicycle does what its designer intended and is executed with fine workmanship, to boot. Photograph Captions “Detailing and lug work are some of the finest that I’ve seen on a bike of this class.” “The Huret Jubilee rear derailleur weighs only 6 oz.” Motobecane Grand Jubilee Specifications FRAME: Straight gauge Reynolds 531 main tubes, cut-away Nervex lugs, Campagnolo rear dropouts, stamped fork tips, chromed fork crown, semi-wrapover seat stays. Dimensions: Top tube: 21½ in. (55.2 cm); seat tube: 23 in. (58.4 cm); chainstay: 17¼ in. (43.8 cm); fork rake: 2½ in. (64 mm); bottom bracket height: 10½ in. (26.7 cm); wheelbase: 39¾ in. (101 cm); head tube angle: 70 degrees; seat tube angle: 70 degrees; weight: 25 lb. CHAINSET: Stronglight “49” with 40/52 chainrings and 170 mm-length cranks. DERAILLEURS: Front: Huret Jubilee (alloy). Rear: Huret Jubilee (alloy). Both with down-tube controls. WHEELS: Hub: Normandy “Sport” with quick-release. Rim: Weinmann alloy clinchers. Tires: Michelin “Fifty” high-pressure. Spokes: straight gauge, untreated. BRAKES: Weinmann Vainqueur 999 model 610 center pulls with hooded levers incorporating quick-release. PEDALS: Atom rat traps with steel cage and alloy barrel and reflectors. FREEWHEEL: Atom 14–28 tooth with Huret plastic spoke protector. SADDLE: Ideale leather “80” with alloy seat post. BAR & STEM: Pivo alloy. COST: $250.00. Original publication: Bicycling!, May 1974, pages 26–27.

The Jones LWB HD/e

2026-07-09T17:01:12.965-06:00

The replacement for the 2009 Surly Long Haul Trucker arrived, assembled, and converted using the Bafang BBS02 motor, wiring harness, Lekkie Buzz Bar cranks, Jones riser H-Bar and Brooks Flyer saddle.

I’m still “dialing it in” with fit, but it rides great. It seems like an extremely solid build… even more substantial than the Long Haul Trucker. The 50mm rims and lower pressure tires take a little to get used too, but first impressions are the bike isn’t slow.

It arrived!

2026-07-01T18:25:54.097-06:00

The replacement for the Surly Long Haul Trucker has arrived!

The Jones LWB Plus/e

Size medium, blue

Stay tuned for the Build!

HWY 55O fire

2026-06-28T10:55:01.122-06:00

Fire pushes evacuations in Ouray County, closes part of Hwy 550

Evacuations have been ordered for parts of Ouray County because of a fast-moving fire that broke out Saturday, June 27, and as of 9:30 p.m., U.S. 550 was closed between Ouray and Whispering Pines.

The Gold Mountain Fire began below Gold Mountain Ranch Saturday evening, near the Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour area, off of County Road 14. Ouray County Sheriff's Office and Ouray County Emergency Management said at the time that a tree had fallen on a powerline.

new bike coming!

2026-06-22T23:02:32.596-06:00

To replace the Surly Long Haul Trucker, a Jones LWB HD/e has been ordered !

What is the HD/e?

HD/e stands for heavy duty and electric and the frame is built stiffer, stronger, and longer.

The complete bike includes:

Jones Plus LWB HD/e Frameset.
Wheels with 50 mm wide rims, 36 spokes, Schrader valve stems.
Big 29” 29" x 2.8" smooth tires.
BB7 disk brakes with 203 mm rotors front and rear.
1 x 12 speed drivetrain with a single click shifter.
Steel chainring, cassette teeth, axles, and hub driver body.
Bigger seat with deeper padding and chromoly rails.

And more!

The Jones Plus LWB HD/e is based on the Jones Plus LWB, a design that has proven itself as one of the most versatile bikes around, winning awards for its abilities as a bikepacking bike, as well as praise for just about all other types of riding. Combine this with Jones Geometry, the upright riding position, big 29” 36 spoke wheels and plus size tires, drivetrain and brake parts selected for strength and durability, and we have a heavy duty bicycle that is efficient and comfortable!

The Jones Plus LWB HD/e frames and unicrown forks are made from heat treated 4130 chromoly steel and have a great feel to them that is stiffer, stronger and with a little more weight than the non HD/e version (~ 300 grams).

Perfect for heavy loads or an ebike conversion. If you’re in need of a heavy duty bike for loaded touring, bikepacking, mountain biking, commuting, gravel or road riding, the Jones Plus HD/e has you covered!

Features and Benefits

Jones Plus LWB HD/e Geometry for a great ride in a wide range of conditions.

Frame and fork designed to work together, a frameset.

Frame is compatible with Jones Truss Fork for Plus LWB

These steel frames have a great feel that is stiffer, stronger and with a little more weight, ~ 300 grams. Perfect for heavy loads.

Super tough heat treated 4130 chromoly steel frame and fork with butted tubing.

Longer chainstays, 20", provide a longer wheelbase with more stability, smoother ride, keeps the front end down on steep climbs. It also creates more chainring clearance and room for a center kickstand mount.

Big and tall Jones Spec. wheelset with 29" x 3.25"/700c x 82 mm tubeless ready knobby tires, or 29" x 2.8"/700c x 71 mm tubeless ready smooth tires on 50 mm wide rims allow you to run very low pressure for maximum suppleness, better traction, more flotation and comfort along with lower rolling resistance, less flats and more safety, on or off road!

36 spokes for ultimate strength and durability.

Schrader (automotive type) valves are easier to use and are more durable. More airflow for easier tubeless set up.

Big tire clearance.

Jones 710 mm Loop H-Bar and H-Grips.

Wide range 11 - 50 SRAM SX 1 x 12 drivetrain.

Single click shifter for quiet, reliable shifting with greater durability.

Mechanical disk brakes with large 203 mm rotors front and rear for more power and better cooling.

Multiple rear rack and fender braze-on mounts for the best rack/fender/tire size fit, or for mounting water bottles. The fork can hold two more water bottles.

Bosses located at top of seat stays for ease of mounting racks.

Chain: SRAM SX Eagle 12 speed

2026-06-06T10:37:35.750-06:00

Update June 2026:

2009 - 2026

At about 5,000 miles on it in e-bike configuration, my old Surly Long Haul Trucker developed a sporadic power loss issue that I hopefully thought might be resolved by replacing the motor controller.

In replacing the motor controller a frame break around the bottom bracket was discovered. It was determined that the frame was no longer safe. The frame was returned to the bicycle shop from where it was purchased. The team at the shop admired the length of service and mileage it had giving.

It may find a place on the shop wall.

But the old Surly Long Haul Trucker had been an awesome bike for me.
Lots of miles and smiles.

... stay tuned looking for a replacement ...

World Bicycle Day !

2026-06-03T16:11:09.040-06:00

Garmin Badge !

So long to my Surly LHT

2026-05-31T19:24:26.011-06:00

🚴‍♂️ End of an incredible era. 🚴‍♂️

upside down view of frame crack

After 17 years, 35,000 miles, countless heavy grocery runs, and unforgettable touring adventures, my trusty Surly Long Haul Trucker has officially earned its retirement.

The down tube finally gave out, cracking right above the bottom bracket joint from decades of hauling heavy loads and putting in the work. In the bike world, 17 years of heavy-duty riding is an honorable, full life for a steel frame. It went down doing exactly what it was built to do: working hard.

This bike carried me through thick and thin, millions of pedal strokes, and a lifetime of memories. Rain and Snow, Cold and Heat!

The frame is unsafe to ride now, so it’s destined to become a wall trophy to celebrate all those miles.

Time to salvage the parts, hang up the frame, and start looking for the next rig to handle the heavy hauling.

Rest easy, Trucker. Thanks for the ride. 🛠️📦🗺️

Final note:
I took the frame to the bicycle shop where the stock Surly Long Haul Trucker was purchased in 2009. The team examined it and we all celebrated the many miles of its service. One said. '"wow ! I've never seen a Surly frame break, we should hang it on the wall!"

Good job Surly.

2026-05-26T12:26:31.750-06:00

Memorial Day Ride

A nice day to ride and remember.

Long Haul Trucker

2026-05-15T11:25:04.611-06:00

Shocking!
~ Making it your own! ~

Tube Wrap

Seat Tube Graphic

Logo

Surly Long Haul Trucker

2026-05-06T15:04:00.005-06:00

The old Surly Long Haul Trucker has went through numerous configurations. Different racks, both front and rear, handlebars, saddles and tires. But it has been a solid comfortable bicycle that lives up to the Surly name.

It indeed has the "Make it your own" feel that has evolved to my needs over many years and miles.

I still like the rim braking. I know that the Surly Bridge Club might be considered a similar configured bicycle. I have given some though about getting one just to treat myself to a new bicycle. But for now, this configured Old School Long Haul Trucker just works fine.

Although I may have a new rear wheel built for it,
since my rear wheel with an indestructible White Hub broke!

White Industry M15 Rear Hub

Nice hub.
It lasted 10 years and lots or miles and pound of hauling.

Transit Connect Weekend Bicycle hauler and camper

2026-04-14T09:58:00.003-06:00

This 2016 vehicle has been great for weekend bicycling adventures.
Small and easy on fuel. The Bicycle(s) can be transported inside, as well as on the outside rack.

Having the ability to haul/store the bicycle(s) in the vehicle is a great option in bad weather as well as for security.

It is not getting as much use as it did before, and might be time to sell it.
If interested in buying this Weekend Bicycle hauler and camper, please leave a comment.

My Surly Long Haul Trucker

2026-03-11T13:15:00.008-06:00

I bought My Surly Long Haul Trucker, well it seems like yesterday, but it was in 2009.
It was a huge change from my Classic 1974 Motobecane Grand Jubilee (that I bought new, years before).

The Long Haul Trucker was awesome as a touring bike. A few transformations were done over time as the years dictated more upright positions. Then as age came for me, I obtained a Felt E-Bike. It was a good bicycle that I put more that 5,000 miles on,... but the Surly Long Haul Trucker always seem a better ride. So I decide to try a conversion and bring my Long Haul Trucker back as a daily rider.

This conversion was done a few years and many, many miles ago. It was my first E-Bike conversion.

Since this conversion, I have converted Fat Tire Surly bikes and a semi-recumbent RANS Fusion. (see E-Bike Touring for details)

This Surly Long Haul Trucker (LHT) conversion was so successful that I sold my factory Felt E-Bike so I could continue to ride my Surly LHT. The Bafang BBS02 motor is the perfect fit for a touring bicycle. If you have an old LHT, the conversion is straight forward and the results will be a very nice touring or commuting bicycle.

As riders get a little older, they just might find, that the bike they love, when converted to an e-bike, will just keep them riding.. and smiling.

Motobecane Grand Jubilee 1974

2026-03-04T11:30:00.006-07:00

A Motobecane work of art.

This Motobecane Grand Jubilee bicycle has been great. I have had it for over 50 years and ridden it many - many miles. The lugged frame joints are beautiful.

I added the wine cork bar end stops, which I think compliment this French bicycle.

The Huret Jubilee derailleur works perfect.

As I watched the Bike Farmer work on a Vintage Gitane (see video below)

... My mind drifted back to purchasing my Motobecane Grand Jubilee in 1974. It was pricey, I saved up, and missed a few college day meals to purchase it. I visited the bike shop across the street from the College Campus often to see if they had sold it before I was able to save enough money to buy it.
Over the years it provided lots of commuting, touring, and racing miles. I still cannot part with it. It seems like it is a tie to my past...

2026-01-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

Amtrak - Katy Trail Ride Remembered.

2025-12-14T14:56:00.003-07:00

Amtrak–Katy Trail Ride

Remembering a Rolling Missouri Adventure

A few years back, I decided that springtime in Missouri was calling my name—and that the best way to answer was with a bicycle, a train ticket, and just enough optimism to believe the weather forecast might be wrong. Thus began my Amtrak–Katy Trail Ride, an adventure that combined passenger trains, crushed limestone trails, historic towns, good food, minor mechanical drama, and a healthy amount of smiling at my own good fortune.

This ride was later written up by Adventure Cycling, which made it feel slightly more official than it probably deserved—but I’ll take it.

The Big Picture

Route: Kansas City to Jefferson City, MO… then back again
Trail: One hundred miles of the Katy Trail along the Missouri River
Riding Days: Two days of roughly fifty miles each
Overnights: A charming bed & breakfast and a historic downtown hotel
Bonus Points: Amtrak’s walk-on bicycle service
Weather: Occasional rain (because of course)

Day One: Trains, Trails, and Tire Trouble

The journey began at the grand and familiar Union Station in Kansas City, a place that somehow makes even a solo cyclist feel like they’re embarking on a Very Important Expedition. Armed with coffee, panniers, and a healthy appreciation for modern conveniences, I rolled my bike toward the Amtrak platform.

This trip featured Amtrak’s roll-on bicycle service, which deserves a standing ovation. A rail worker flagged me toward my car, I pushed my bike directly onto the train, secured it in its designated space, and—this was the real luxury—sat right next to it.

This was a huge upgrade from the old days.

Previously, traveling with a bike meant stuffing it into a cardboard bike box, watching it disappear into a baggage car, and later reassembling it on a platform while pretending not to panic about missing parts. Compared to that? This felt like first-class travel for both me and my bike.

I was so impressed that I immediately pulled out my iPhone and sent Amtrak a message expressing my appreciation. Not all heroes wear capes—some design bike-friendly train policies.

The ride to Jefferson City was smooth and relaxing. I watched the Missouri countryside roll by while silently negotiating with the weather gods, hoping the forecasted rain would at least wait until I was good and tired.

As we passed through Sedalia, I noticed the depot and made a mental note: In two days, if all goes well, I’ll be back here boarding this same train. Adventure always feels better when you have a plan—and a return ticket.

We arrived in Jefferson City around noon. The depot sits just a few blocks from the State Capitol, which made the disembarkation feel appropriately official. Amtrak prefers a speedy unload, so as the train rolled in, I sprang into action. A helpful rail worker assisted me down the stairs with the bike, and just like that, I was officially rolling.

It was raining lightly—but I was prepared. Or at least dressed like someone who thought they were prepared.

I pedaled past the Capitol, following my route toward the Katy Trail.

Along the way, I stopped at a local bike shop to confirm directions (and, naturally, to browse). I walked out with a new pair of gloves and a few shop stickers—souvenirs that every proper cycling adventure requires.Soon after, I crossed the Missouri River, and not long after that, I found it: the Katy Trail North Jefferson Trailhead. Mission officially underway.

The Katy Trail delivers beauty in abundance. I was heading toward Rocheport, my stop for the night, but progress was… leisurely. Not because of the trail surface—it was excellent—but because every few minutes demanded another photo. Trees, river views, old rail remnants—it all added up to a comfortable 12 mph pace and zero regrets.

Eventually, I rolled into Cooper’s Landing,

which offers fantastic views and exceptional food. It’s the kind of place that convinces you stopping was not optional but morally required.

Back on the trail and feeling good, I continued toward Rocheport—until my rear tire decided to introduce itself to the story.

Yes. The rear tire.

It’s always the rear tire.

With about eight miles left in the day, I noticed it slowly losing air. Rather than stopping immediately, I opted for a strategy best described as “optimistic denial”: stopping every couple of miles to add air and promising myself I’d deal with it properly once I arrived.

Miraculously, this worked.

I found my lodging in Rocheport

without issue and was thrilled to discover a dedicated bike repair shed. The tube was patched, dinner was consumed, and I enjoyed a well-earned night of sleep.

Day Two: Tunnels, Pie, and Persistent Rain

I woke early, energized and ready for another fifty-ish miles. Today’s destination was Sedalia, MO, where I had reservations at the Historic Bothwell Hotel downtown. Once again, rain was in the forecast—but hope springs eternal.

Leaving Rocheport, I rolled past one of the town’s highlights: a fantastic tunnel that practically demands a photograph. After fulfilling my photographic duties, I continued on.

The stretch from Rocheport to Boonville is especially delightful. Birds chirped, small animals scurried, and for a while—victory!—no rain fell. The trail felt alive and peaceful all at once.

In Boonville, I stopped at a downtown café for breakfast before heading back onto the trail toward Pilot Grove—one of my favorite sections. The scenery is lovely, the trail is a bit hillier than usual, and it includes both an overpass and a tunnel, which always feels like a bonus.

Pilot Grove also features something critically important: excellent pie. I stopped at the trailhead, where a thoughtfully placed bicycle workstation allowed me to check tire pressure and make sure everything was still behaving.

(Then I went for the pie.)

The next stretch of trail grew quieter and more remote, perfect for reflection and photography. One of my favorite sights was an old train signal, standing as a reminder of the route’s railroad history.

Not long after passing it, the rain arrived—right on schedule. It followed me faithfully all the way into Sedalia, proving once again that forecasts should never be ignored.

Downtown Sedalia was just a short ride away, and soon I arrived at the Historic Bothwell Hotel. The building sits proudly in the old downtown district, surrounded by history—including another beautiful structure across the street that was undergoing renovation and absolutely required a photo.

The hotel staff welcomed both me and my bicycle. I was allowed to bring it into the historic lobby, and they stored it safely in the basement for the night.

The hotel itself was wonderful—comfortable, full of character, and exactly what tired cyclists dream about. I chose to dine at the hotel restaurant, which turned out to be an excellent decision. Warm food, dry clothes, and a sense of accomplishment are hard to beat.

Day Three: Coffee, Pastries, and the Ride Home

The next morning, I woke early and checked out. The staff retrieved my bike, and I rolled the few blocks to the Sedalia train station I’d spotted days earlier. With time to spare, I stopped for coffee and a pastry—because no good train ride should begin without one.

Back at the station, the train arrived right on time. A rail worker waved me toward the correct car, helped lift my bike onboard, and once again I secured it in its space. I took my seat beside it, leaned back, and enjoyed the ride back to Kansas City.

As the countryside rolled by, I reflected on the trip: trains that welcomed bikes, trails that followed rivers, towns full of character, and just enough rain and mechanical drama to make it a true adventure.

All in all, it was exactly the kind of journey that reminds you why mixing bicycles, trains, and a sense of humor is always a good idea.

Tip so brake levers do not break when bicycle falls.

2025-12-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

Loaded touring bikes have a good chance of falling over. This can result in a broken brake lever.

It is advisable to NOT attach the brake lever too tight to the handlebar. Tighten it so the lever can be moved/twister slightly by hand. If and when the bicycle falls and lands on the brake lever, the lever will just twist and will not break and need to be replaced.

You can then just twist it back into the proper position.

note: I also did this adjustment years ago when mountain biking after breaking a brake lever or two.

Another benefit, from this: I often slightly twist/adjust the brake levers to change the resting place of my fingers. The position change help the 'blood flow' to the hands.

Enjoying November nice weather

2025-11-14T21:23:00.001-07:00

Every year, November seems to try to make up its mind. Gray and grumpy one day, bright and generous the next.

Today it had clearly chosen generosity. The air was crisp but not cold, the sun low but warm enough to draw you outside. It was the kind of day that felt like a gift, quietly wrapped and waiting on the doorstep.

The RANS Fusion, has now passed the testing period. It is humming with the confidence with its new Bafang heart. The e-bike conversion has changed the character of the ride—not easier, exactly, but lighter, as if the bike knows when a body needs help, and does indeed help with a wink and a nudge. The pedal assist just does it's thing and the RANS Fusion rolls forward effortlessly, eager for the miles.

Now riding it time to enjoy trees that are still hanging onto their leaves, stubborn splashes of orange and gold fluttering overhead. The off beaten roads carry the scent of the lake, and every now and then a breeze kicks up a little swirl of leaves that chased the Fusion down the trail.

Settling into that mid-pedal fourteen mph pace felt great with that half workout, half meditation feeling. The motor whispered along, quietly never stealing the moment, only smoothing it out the hills.

Out on the open stretch, I stop to take a quick picture. Then once again, back on the bicycle. Retirement doesn't mean slowing down. It means choosing your pace, and days like this made the choice easy. The calendar reminds that winter is coming.

November may not always be kind—but today, being old felt alright with the RANS Fusion e-bike. It felt like a perfect companion.

2025-10-07T13:26:00.002-06:00

The operation of the inflator.

This is a must have to carry with you on your bicycle.

Out of the box, it is set-up for Presta valves. But can be adapted for Schrader valves. The days of carrying hand pumps is over. This little small hand held device easily fits into a bike bag of jersey pocket. It charges with a USB cord.

I hated getting flats on the road having to use those little hand pumps that took forever to inflate the tire. Always wearing your hands out and bumping your knuckles into the spokes.

I pack the RockBros Tire Inflator & cord in my front handlebar tool bag. I also carry a small battery charging unit that is used to charge up devices. (Garmin, Varia, phone, and now pump)

Durango, Purgatory land mountain biking world championships in 2030

2025-10-04T10:03:00.001-06:00

Durango, Purgatory land mountain biking world championships in 2030 | The Colorado Sun