Hey All,

So, I am back on. Actually, I have been riding outside since last Saturday, but due to a myriad of excuses, I haven't written in the Blog.

My first ride out was on the city bike. I had to go into town last Saturday, and by far the easiest way to get there is on my trusty city bike. It was then that I experienced one of the worst road rage incidents I have had - with no where near as nasty ramifications as Sydney of course, but it left me shaking in my boots! A guy actually got out of his car and ran back up the road at me - I had nowhere to go as it was in the middle of the city on Collins street - and as I was stopped he stood about a foot away from me yelling and then proceeded to shake the back of my bike by holding the pannier rack. I was very frightened - mainly because I was hurting from ribs already (not that he knew that). Anyway, this was all because he thought I had spat on his car. It was a cool morning and I had done a bush blow that may have got his car when he had driven past rather closely earlier in the trip. Ok, so bush blows aren't very lady-like, but nor is a stream of water from your nose! (yes Mum, I could have used a hanky)

For those interested in commuter bikes, mine is a Giant city-pro: normally Giants aren't my favourite choice of frame as the geometry is not great for women, but there price is usually good for componentry. This one makes a great commuter with its 8-speed  hub gearing (Shimano Nexus) - for the fashion concious, it even looks like a single speed! The hub gearing makes maintenance a breeze and it comes in stealthy matt black that hides the dirt well - so I don't even have to wash it :)  The bike came with a pannier rack and mud guards as standard. I ride it everywhere (my car only comes out for trips that are out of town or where I need to carry my cool bikes - DISC, spin and MTBing). I try to tell my mates the advantages - parking anywhere, no petrol or parking fees, speed!, health ..... the list goes on (let's not mention road rage guy).

Back to the point ... So, I'm back on the bike and trying to get my fitness back to where it was before my little fall (and further!). I tested the ribs out at Disc on last Sunday where Carl put on a hard but very fun sesh. It all went well and as long as I don't try to use arms for extra power or go over too many bumps, I'm laughing (not too hard though!). I have been out of the road and I must say, the weather is delightful at the moment and riding during the day is just lovely. I am hoping to get out in the trees of Listerfield on Monday for a tester on the Yeti. Can't wait!

Wishing everyone a great weekend of riding. Take care out there!