I fell in love all over again… it’s taken this break to realize that I’ve been missing out, missing the point and ignoring my heart. I had taken advantage of her and given nothing back. No, I wasn’t cheating on her, although others had said I should change her out for an “upgrade”. Don’t get me wrong, I had definitely looked.
I simply hadn’t given her the TLC she deserves- she was neglected. I had taken her for granted and she sat forlorn in the corner. Today, I went over to her and ran my hands over her and pulled her close. I stripped her down and lovingly washed every inch of her.
Some speak of bike lust, some speak of bike love- I fell in love with my bike again. She was dirty after Cascade. The drivetrain was grimy and dried Cytomax covered her top and down tubes.
I took one look at the rear derailleur and was disgusted with myself. I scrubbed her carefully- I lovingly washed her down and removed every little bit of dirt. I sprayed her down with a fine mist. She was clean but I needed to do more. I brought out the cleaner and removed all the oxidation. Following up with polish- her true color came out. I took the next step and waxed her. Gleaming.
I never had a close relationship with a bike- I never understood how someone could love their bike, but today I changed my mind.
She cleaned up well- she is gorgeous- she’s my Dame.
Sam Johnson wrote,
Oh Shiny Ridley —
Your Bike Lust gleam, well lubed chain;
Chills run up my spine.
Link | July 19th, 2008 at 10:40 pm