I have been dreaming about getting a new bike. I’ve had my old Cramerotti for over 20 years. And while she is a lovely old steel bike, I wouldn’t mind something better suited for the terrain around these parts. But, as things go, the supply chain worldwide is still utterly choked and getting a new bike isn’t as easy as it used to be.
While trying to sort that option out, Jason came up with an excellent interim solution: an update to my drivetrain, with a bigger cassette for climbing the tough hills around here. I booked an appointment for the work as soon as I arrived and had the shop in town completely give the old girl an overhaul. New cables and housing, a new derailleur, and a new cassette. Et voilà, she’s like a whole new bike! Well, not entirely, no whizzy disk brakes or room for a comfy large tire, but it still made a world of difference. It will most certainly help my cycling while I search out a new steed.
Saint Jalle
And so, this week I cycled up all kinds of hills and routes to give it a good test. It’s been sunny, with blue skies and warm, perfect for spectacular cycling. I’ve gone to several spots with stunning lavender views, and it’s been magnificent. Today, I gave a guided bike tour to a fellow Canadian, and with over 1500 metres of elevation on our route, it was a good test of the new set-up. Sadly, I was shocked to see that so much of the lavender was harvested. Thank goodness I’ve been out and about to see it while I could. It’s been so warm, with another 10 days on the horizon of +35 to +40 degrees, it’s not surprising everything is done earlier than usual this year. I love the heat, but without any rain, this seems a bit too much and with it a high risk of fire.
Alas, I’d rather it be plus 35 than minus 35, so I am still very much in my happy place. I might just be needing a few more afternoon siestas. C’est pas mal.
Sault
