My Bicycles

Here is a list of bicycles that I own:

Bajrang (Specialized Rockhopper Comp Xtracycle)

Mountain bike from the mid 1980s, this bike was once fitted with slick road tires, fenders, high load bearing rack and hitch for a dog carrier. It has since been converted to an Xtracycle by Brooklyn. The heavy rack has gone but everything else remains. The quick release rear axle has been converted to a fixed to accomodate the dog trailer hitch. It is still my long ride and short errand bicycle. The long rides are just as effortless as before the conversion. The Banjo Brother’s waterproof panniers did an excellent job for grocery shopping and panera-bread-bulk-pastry-buying. They have been given away.

Katrien (Amsterdam Dutch Style City Bike)

This is from the 1960’s or 1970s. I bought it from a colleague. This bike was made in Europe and brought over here by a German gentleman. It has parts made in W. Germany and Italy. I dont know which country this bike is made in. The logo has a french flag on it. This is my primary commute-to-work bike. The upright ride and chain guard makes it a favorite for commuting in my dressy work clothes. A Minnehaha Small Canvas Bag carries necessary tools and a spare tube. The front wheel is missing its fender and I dont know if I can find a matching fender. This is a perfect bicycle to put on your aviators and cruise along quietly, until you have a flat in the rear tire. Then it is a major pain in the butt. This bicycle is my contribution to the Slow Bicycle Movement.

Hercules (Roadster from India)

I bought this bike during my India trip in december 2008. It cost me $60 USD. The shop owner packed it in a box and I brought it over as checked-in luggage. It was within dimension and within the weight limits. It has a generator hub, the headlight of which is pretty bright and has three settings. I had to put a longer seat post on. The grips on the handlebar are very skinny, so they will be replaced soon. It comes with 28 X 1.5 inch tires. I have seen these bikes growing up and they are very sturdy frames. They last decades considering the beating they take on indian roads and climate conditions. I am slowly getting used to it. This should be fun.