Double Secret Probation

Well, the 29 and Single has acquired a new look and a new feel. It is unbelievable what a few new components can do for the ride of a bike. Number one on the list was the fork.

The heavy steel fork was replaced with a White Brothers Rock Solid ultra-light rigid carbon fork. I can't believe how much this has improved the ride and handling of the bike.Next on the list are the wheels. Custom built by Travis at MG Cycle and Fitness. They consist of WTB Laser Light Hubs, DT Swiss double butted spokes, Salsa Delgado Cross rims, and blue nipples to match the paint on the frame.The wheels are phenomenally light and ride really nice. I put the old Maxxis Ignitor tires on. These are pretty heavy tires, but they will do for now. Eventually I'll throw on a set of Larsen TT's. These are lighter, have a narrower profile, and roll with a bit less resistance.The final touch was the Bontrager Race X Light riser handlebars and matching seatpost. I also have a very nice looking FSA OS-99 stem that I will putting on to replace the Ritchey Pro.Overall I'm very pleased and excited with how the bike turned out. I could immediately feel the difference in the handling and performance of the bike and I can hardly wait to hit the trails with it.

Now, I never in a million years figured that Patti would notice any changes in the looks of the bike. I just figured that she really didn't pay very close attention to how any of my bikes looked.
So, I really didn't do any consulting with her on what my plans were and what I actually purchased.

However, last night while I was in the basement stretching and doing some conditioning work, Patti came down and immediately walked over to the bike. She examined it very carefully...like a detective looking for clues. My stomach immediately developed butterflies. Slowly she bent over and touched the shiny new carbon fork and said, "Hmmm honey, this looks new." Oh no dear, that's always been there. I just shined it up." I was totally busted. She then touched the handlebars and seatpost and said, "Bill...these look new also. Now I was really busted. I didn't say a word...I couldn't because I was in a state of total shock. How in the hell could she have noticed? I guess Patti pays way more attention then I had imagined.

Thank God she didn't notice the wheels or even ask how much money I spent. You see, Patti has a way about her. She can communicate things to me without so much as a word or even a look. She quietly left the basement and never said another word about it the rest of the evening. She didn't have to because I know exactly what she is thinking...I will now be on "double secret probation" for the rest of the year. So, I guess those fancy looking brake levers I was so admiring will have to go on the back burner.

Maybe I will have to get a second job...