So it is with bicycle helmets. And when I noticed a long, thin crack in my helmet after only a year's use, I knew I had to replace it. The helmet I'd had, like most of its rpedecessors, was a quasi-racy affair with sleek lines, strategically-placed vents and a shark fin sort of thing gong on in back. The shape was never truly flattering but it did make me look a little like a racer.
With all the changes in my life, I decided something much simpler and less pretentious was in order. After considering my options and liking relatively few of them, I finally went for the Giro Reverb. Basically a throw-back to the color schemes of the early 90's Giro helmets, but with an even simpler shape and MUCH better fit.
I chose a sky blue/white color scheme, and removed the visor since I still prefer wearing cotton cycling caps under my helmet (reduces helmet hair significantly), but otherwise it looks like this. And you know what? I love it. My co-workers have told me it's perfect -- one says it's a "total beth helmet", which I take as high priase. (Sweetie thinks it's ugly and goofy looking, but she thinks this way of most bicycle helmets so I know it's not personal.)
Today, I began cleaning out the closet and drawrers of all the lycra I don't wear anymore -- mostly because a lot of it is now too big on me (I've kept off a good deal of the weight I lost last year through weightlifting -- I still don't eat huge portions and I still do ride most days, even if I couldn't afford the gym anymore). Some of it is extras from wehen I was getting into racing and trying to figure out what stuff worked best. And I don't really need any of it anymore.
Look for me this spring and summer in touring shorts, tee-shirts and sweaters, cotton crocheted gloves and flat shoes. And check eBay for some very affordable cycling togs if you need any.
Before too long I will probably take a serious look at thinnig the herd. Not sure which bikes I'll sell yet but figure at least one or maybe two. I am flrting with the idea of going to a smaller herd that uses all the same tire size, for durability and practicality. (Friends in the know are going to predict that I'm leaning towards an all-26" stable and they'd be right.)
Stay tuned, as my decision-making process on this is evolving.
Happy riding! Everything is blooming here -- go out and enjoy!
3 comments:
I did the same thing recently - all 26". It was a great space saver, and I wasn't really riding everything regularly anymore either. Best part though - I recently picked up a folding bike with 26" wheels...so it fits right in. So much for downsizing? But I think I'll get a lot of good use out of it.
How's the weight/ventilation/durability of the Giro stack up against a basic BMX helmet? I'm definitely drawn to the look (since I remember wearing the helmet that inspired it back in the day), but I wonder how it will hold up to the daily abuse of commuting.
Next, they need to offer Lycra/mesh covers to really capture the late-80s vibe. :-)
Jason "60 Dollar Helmet on a 5 Cent Head" Nunemaker, in Des Moines, IA
I have a very small head and it's been tough to find helmets that fit without mking me look like an angry insect or a mushroom. As for durability, it's too new to tell just yet. But I like it.
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