So I have been looking for a bike. Remember that I am extremely clueless as to what I actually need. My attempts so far have taken me to:
- Nakumatt Junction and to the 50% off basement sale. There was such a rush there. I admit I got distracted a little bit and wandered towards scented candles but I eventually got to the bikes. My friend E was with me. Her first comment was “These bikes put me off. They are very racing bike-like”. Yes. Not pink and fluffy these bikes. The price wasn’t too bad. Since they were going at 50% off they were roughly between Kshs. 13,000-15,000.
- A bike hiring outfit. They will charge Kshs. 1,500 per day.
- Begging C for a bike he’s been promised. Since he might be on my team I don’t see that coming through. But he tells me he is going to a sports shop to look around.
Maina’s cheeky suggestion that we use bodaboda’s has been given some considerable thought. I saw something about a “black mambas” start off on the programme – note to self: Ask Lillian what this is.
I have also gone to bicycling.com (Mountain Bike Magazine) for suggestions on a good bike. They have good stuff under sections like; Gear For Girls – Women’s Cycling Shorts Reviews: Best Women’s Shorts Under $100; Women’s Bike Saddle Reviews; and Ibex Balance Sports Bra. And a very useful “which bike should I buy”. FYI Bikes are in the $2k and above range. Eeek!
This morning, my friend Bernard wrote from the states to say, “I wish I could be there to cheer you on or be part of your crew. Nevertheless, I’ll see what I can do…may be send you a spare chain, tyre, spoke….for your bike! How’s that?
Bernard is joking. But he doesn’t know how close he is to the truth. At this rate, I might have to do a home assembly.
