I am now the proud owner of a Dahon D7 folding bicycle! It's compact, has seven speeds and only has one major dent. It does not have a bell yet, but you can't expect everything at once. Cruisers often use folding bikes because for one they are compact and for two you generally can't take your car with you on a 36-foot sailboat. I guess we could tow the Altima behind us in the dinghy, but it might have a slight effect on our speed.
I've been trolling Craigslist for a variety of items that we either need but can in no way afford or want but can't justify purchasing, and folding bikes were high on the want list. The Dahon D7 retails for about $600, and I bought it from some guy named Darryl in the Clear Lake Target parking lot for $175. Love that underground economy!
Unfortunately, Vlad is still sans bike, so my dreams of a romantic ride through the French countryside while carrying a bag of baguettes and wearing a beret will have to wait. Until then, it's Craiglist and persistence.
You throw your desire into the universe, and the universe provides! I'm betting you will not sail into the sunset without a bike for Vlad. Excellent! Meanwhile, he can still row you in the dinghy while you read poetry.
ReplyDeleteIf you're looking for a folding bike to take on a boat trip, I would recommend a Montague. They fold down really easily and small enough to go in a bulk head, plus they ride great. People tend to hang onto them though, so I'm not sure if you'll find one on Craig's List...you might though
DeleteMelissa, we've definitely worked to make this dream a reality, but it's funny how things have just kind of fallen into place. One minute we're on the job track and the next I'm getting rowed around in a dinghy and working as a carousel operator. Who knew!?
ReplyDeleteAnd Will, those bikes look amazing! I will keep an eye out for them on the used market, but I can see why people don't let them go very often. Too bad they're out of our price range new.
I love hearing that! It gives me hope that things will be falling into place for us, too.
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