Sunday, July 4, 2010

Out of the Shadows

When the Kogswell P/R was out of service, it was a dark time. My effort to provide for generator hubs on two bikes (instead of sharing), cause me to be months with the Kogswell sans front wheel. I had multiple bad experiences locally trying to get a wheel built. Then I considered buying/borrowing a stand, and building one myself. Research, deliberating, and real life activities happened, and time marched on. Local bike shop disillusionment, indecision, and no P/R. If it weren't for my A. Homer Hilsen, I would have thought I was living in Eeyore's gloomy place, rather boggy and sad.

But it was a lovely dawn. I picked up my newly built wheel yesterday, and am pleased to report that quality bike shops still exist. Bernie and Bryan at Trinity Bicycles in Fort Worth built it right the first time, and delivered on schedule. It's a long drive for me, but these guys are interested in long-term relationships, and I'll be back. Thanks, guys.

So, I've pedaled out of the shadows, and into the morning light. It was mighty fine to be rolling the fixed wheel again. In and out of the Clear Creek valley in northwest Denton County, my simple place.


  1. The b/w photo would make an interesting infrared, possibly.
    Bike: want!

  2. Chris,
    So glad to hear you got a nice front wheel built at Trinity. I see it is a dynamo wheel!

    There shall be light!

    Peace :)

  3. I am fairly disillusioned with the local shops here as well. I usually end up going up to Indianapolis if I need something beyond basic stuff. It's a shame, really, I'd love to support the local shops, but alas, my tastes run a little obscure, and most of the things that interest me they either aren't interested in carrying, consider antiquated, or can't find a market for in this small town. It sounds like you have a similar scenario.

    The Kogswell is a beautiful bicycle. I might need to invest in a single speed or fixed gear bicycle someday ... but not soon, given my recent road bike acquisition!

  4. Thanks for the kind words Chris. It was a pleasure to build such a fine wheel for a discerning customer, I hope you get lots of miles and smiles out of it. Please pass along my warmest regards to the country roads of Denton County.