Kona ... Moan-a

I'm moaning right now.

I called by local bike shop (LBS) manager today and he informed me that he has the Kona Africabike Threes coming, but they won't be here until March/April 2009. For a measly $50 he'll reserve one for me. I think it is a done deal.

Wife will have her dream: a step-through, basket in the front, rack in the back, bicycle when the snow stops melting.

The big moan however is that he also has a 2008 Ute in the window that he is selling for an insanely cheap price. Its specifications are basically the same as the 2009, just a different color and one set of bags instead of the HUGE bags.

The price is so low (and he said he'd even go lower if I bought an Africabike Three), it is basically the same as the conversion cost for an ExtraCycle... I can buy this bike, a set of big bags, add a child seat to the deck and still pocket a few Benjamins for beer money with the difference.

Moan. Groan. Temptation.

Cold...

OK, I had some big "suit" type meetings early this week and the weather was Cleveland pre-winter slushy-snow-freezing-rain crap. I drove the car two days but slogged out in it today. I stayed really dry thanks to my Performance "Ultra" rain jacket and seam sealed pants.

The temp when I took off this morning was 34 Fahrenheit with a 20+ MPH wind at my side along with the freezing rain. I guess it is sort of like jumping into cold water - the first time is the hardest.

Also picked up some sweet new Ergon grips. Nummy (oh yeah, so my hands don't get numb-ey):

Four Sin Friday

lust, avarice, gluttony, envy = sweet bikes

KONA AFRICABIKE

OK, this consumerism desire has a "noble" purpose - providing bikes to African home health care workers. Bicycles allow these workers to reach many more patients in a given day - helping give care and comfort to those who don't have access to a hospital.

The project is especially important for HIV/AIDS patients who are stigmatized for being in public...

Plus it is a really nice looking around-town bike. Kona will donate one bicycle to the project for every two purchased through standard retail outlets. Or/and you can adopt a bicycle (below the production cost) for just $100!

Coaster brake in three speed for $449 USD or single speed for $375 USD - includes fenders, rear rack, front basket, and rear wheel lock.

The MOST IMPORTANT bicycle you may ever buy!