New Jersey, Bike, & Easter

Last weekend I made a quick trip to New Jersey to visit a good friend. The flights were cheap and flew direct so it was an easy decision to make. Although the trip was only for four days, we managed to pack a lot into that time. We visited The MET, the New Jersey shore, the Broadway production of 'Chicago', a jazz club, and a comedy club. Fantastic! All of it!

I bought the Trek 520 touring bike that I that wrote about earlier. Fortunately the size was correct and the test ride immediately impressed me. The bike is now leaning against a wall in my living room, and is slowly being modified and fitted for touring. I added a mount for a GPS receiver and fitted the Ortlieb touring bags for the rear carrier. Soon I'll get a front carrier and bags and downsize the crank. I definitely need a smaller crank for the mountains around here, but it's open whether I downsize just the lowest chain ring or the entire thing. The difference in price is not subtle.

Next weekend is Easter and I wish to use the four-day weekend to test the bike with a short tour. I hope to bike in Tessin, but this depends on the weather and if I get the chain ring modified in time. If not, I'll just need to find a flatter place to bike.