So, it's been a couple of weeks on the new, improved bike.

I should've done the gear thing years ago. Losing my big gear didn't prove to be as much of a nuisance as I thought. I can get the 50x12 going pretty well down hills.

The real stunner has been the 30 tooth chain ring. I find that I routinely use all 10 cogs in the rear with my 30. I know, the 30x12 and probably the 30x13 should be off limits because of the massive chain deflection. But I don't listen very well.

My favorite climbing gears amazed me. Going up Lake City Way, I'm generally in my 30x16 or so. Ditto coming up 527. And it's pretty smooth spinning.

I'm thinkin that the dinky gears I had before and particularly the 28 tooth chain ring was hurting me more than helping me. I'd get into that little ring and just get stuck creeping up the hill.

On to something completely different. Well, sort of.

People here are still pussies. I've taken to riding Lake City Way vice the Burke Gilman to work. Why? First off, I'm just fucking sick of the BGT. Secondly, I am constantly hearing how dangerous it is with the Bus Lanes. Finally, it's hillier and therefore, better exercise.

The bus drivers here are about like drivers anywhere. Act predictably, give them room when you can and they'll give you room when they can. I have no complaints.

The motorists are about the same. Jill and I suspect I just have lower expectations. Maybe. But I'm not the one giving up on perfectly fun bike routes because I just don't trust the drivers.

Here's my latest theory. People up here are basically nice. A few assholes like anywhere else but that's about it. However, people around here don't seem to trust easily so they sit around and bitch about how dangerous everything is rather than just digging the ride.