The CCIP Continues

CCIP = Cross Check Improvement Project

This time, it's the addition of a Velo Orange Porteur Rack.

I haven't tested it yet, other than a short jaunt down the street.  I know that having a load up front will affect handling, so we'll see how it goes.  The rack is so shiny that the sun's rays reflecting off it nearly blinded me.  Other than potentially charred retinas, I don't expect any other issues.

Thanks to Gregory at Chocolate Spokes (featured in the New York Times!) for the install.  Yes, it's a true testament to my ineptitude that I had to have the rack installed for me.  But I know how these things go with me, meaning that the rack would have languished in a box in the basement for at least a month before I mustered the gumption to attempt the install.  And then there would have been the inevitable install snafu, causing a trip to the bike shop and at the very least a frustrated tantrum.  This way is much easier, trust me.

Iowa!

I ordered my Iowa bike map yesterday.

Jeff Wignall photo

What I need

Contrary to the type of bike lust stuff I usually post on this blog, what I need isn't a thing, doohickey, gadget or something else that can be purchased.

What I need is a life-changer, an experience that will change me and shape me.  Get me out of this rut that I am in and give me some much-needed perspective.

Something like this.

All that's left is for me to muster up some gumption and go do it.