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Cycle Bike

9 April 2007
Written by: Amy Posted under Life

I got a new bicycle a few weeks ago from REI - the Novara Forza. It’s the first bike I’ve had since I was old enough to drive and I’m enjoying my slow return to riding.

I rode religiously as a child…to friends houses, to the library, around the neighborhood. My crowning achievement was to ride all the way up Chelsea Hills without stopping. Those familiar with Benicia know what a beast that hill can be.

This weekend we drove out to Berkeley and did 8+ miles along the waterfront and Point Isabel. It was a beautiful day to get some sunshine in my soul.


3 Responses to ' Cycle Bike '

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  1. Matt said,

    on May 7th, 2007 at 12:45 pm

    Just curious as to how well you still like this bike. I’m thinking about getting one myself, as soon as REI gets them back in stock.

    Peace

  2. Amy said,

    on May 7th, 2007 at 1:28 pm

    Hi Matt - I’m digging it. I haven’t done much riding the last few week but when I do get out I enjoy it.

    It’s pretty hilly where we live which means I’m constantly either working too hard or not hard enough. Throwing it on the back of the truck and going someplace else is much more enjoyable, but takes more coordination … harder to just pick up and go.

    I like that it has the right blend between a mountain bike and a road bike. Mountain bike horizontal handlebars with additional vertical holds give you some options (sorry - I don’t know the terminology). The shocks can be turned on or off depending on the terrain.

    My husband noticed the difference in breaking between his bike and mine…with his you have to almost plan ahead a bit to come to a stop, where the Forza is pretty responsive in a shorter amount of time.

    I put a wider Terry saddle on, and I may swap out the pedals because one side is set up for clips, and I’m not buying cycling shoes any time soon.

    I have no complaints. It’s a really good cross-over bike, and by all accounts REI gives you a lot of bike for your money. I don’t plan on doing more then weekend rides, and I expect it to last many years.

    HTH,
    Amy

  3. Matt said,

    on May 8th, 2007 at 8:26 am

    Thank you for that update. As a Bay Area native myself, I understand the problems that living in a hilly area can present. Wife, son, and I all bailed out from the East Bay several years ago, and now live in a small mountain town. Son will want Dad to ride with him, and this bike seems to fit the bill.

    Best of Luck, and Peace

    Matt

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