Akin to an ancient warrior
Akin to an ancient warrior, about to return to the field after decades of absence, I prepared myself. Laundered my garments, bathed in the local stream (of hot water). Prepared my armour, which came down to finding where my helmet had been packed and checking to see if the leather gauntlets still fit. Set aside coins, in case I had to pay due to the gods of the city (parking gods, in particular). With all in order, I set off for the metropolis, alone.
Today, I bought a bike. Think of a man buying a horse; I had decided on the dealer, and the acceptable breeds. Only the particulars of the individual mount remained to be chosen. Happily, the dealer was pretty much alone (at this time of year, the crowds are more interested in snow blowers). I had his undivided attention.
My short list was based on research. In fact, I have a much better understanding of the marketplace than just a week ago, as well as a calm spirit. If I didn’t find what I wanted, there would be another moment. Another dealer. Makes it easier to shop…
This is a good time of year for a bicycle purchaser. End of season stock, taking up space before year-end inventories. New orders due, soon. After some careful comparisons of weight and well, weight, I made my choice and checked on the “real price”. Which, as it turned out, didn’t cause me to fade from sticker shock. With a set of new rain guards, the final figure seemed very reasonable, and we sealed the deal, so to speak. I set off to handle a short errand list before returning for the “load it in the car and go”.
All the way home, the snow increased; by the time I crested the final rise, visibility was something from a “Star Wars” trailer, rushing through space. Oddly, I still haven’t taken a test ride on MY bike, as I now refer to it. And if you care, it’s red.
