I’m in D.C. this week with my family. my wife very kindly took notice of a bike-rental operation in town and suggested I “scratch that itch” so I headed over. $30 later I had a Trek road bike which at least had a carbon fork and maybe more (not sure exactly which model it was). I’m not really the right shape for a road bike (yet!!), but it was either that or a leisurely “comfort” hybrid so i took the chance.

It was quite a pleasant surprise. Most of all, the bike seemed to get up to speed incredibly quickly (compared to my Trek Soho). I also liked the easy thumb press to upshift. and having a real “granny” gear again (vs. my 8-speed IGH) was nice. I didn’t like having to downshift at intersections though, and there are lots of them in D.C. But it makes me think I might want a road bike for longer and less-interrupted weekend excursions. Also made me wonder what sort of road-ish bike I could get that would take a rack and fenders…maybe the Trek Portland?

Anyway, here’s a picture with the rental (oops, it’s cut out) on the steps of the Capitol, overlooking the Washington Mall and Monument.