Huffy Sea Pines, Burnt Orange, 19 inch step-through frame, 1 speed, new 26 inch wheels, coaster brake in back, side pull in front, fenders, chain guard, kickstand. $175
Do you have a friend, maybe a long time friend, who keeps her head when everyone else is freaking out? Someone who tells you the truth even if it stings a little? The friend who, when the party turns ugly & your boyfriend dumps you & you’re far from home & it’s all too much, shows up with some bottled water & gets you home safely? Not your flashy semi-famous drama queen friend. Not the activist raging with a righteous fury. Not the party animal who is always on on on. You know, that friend you don’t appreciate quite enough, because how could you?
Well, if ever she is reincarnated as a bicycle, this is what she might come back as. The fenders & chain guard will protect you from mud & oil. You can slam on the brakes standing back on the pedals, with that oddly satisfying kick that you may remember from childhood. (Just remember to also squeeze the front brake lever – the front wheel does most of the stopping.) The color scheme is unusual, beautiful, but not loud. & check out the 5-fold symmetry of the chain ring. Sweet!
You won’t win any races on this ride, but she’ll get you home safely.
OK, now go listen to Willie Dixon’s classic affirmation of self-acceptance: Build for Comfort, Not for Speed.
