A while back, my dad and I picked up an old Schwinn bicycle at a garage sale. I don’t recall the exact price but it was practically pennies. The only thing we added were some new tires. For the past few years, the bike has been resting in my dad’s storage unit. Well, not anymore.
Before leaving Memphis, I grabbed the bike so I could ride it around Chicago. At first, the thought of riding a bike through Chicago traffic was a bit intimidating. But with some encouragement from my friend Trey, I was ready. So after working on the brakes and installing a new rear flashing reflector, I took to the road.
The new ride is a women’s Schwinn 1979 Collegiate 3. Yep, a female’s bicycle. The main difference between a men’s and a women’s bike is the crossbar. The fellow’s crossbar is straight while the lady’s slopes. Actually, there are advantage’s for a guy riding a female’s bike. The main one is that it’s easier to get on and off the bike. And there’s no threat of accidentally racking yourself in the crotch. Ouch!
Now, I’ve only been riding the bike for a few days but it’s already got me thinking why has it taken me this long to start riding a bike here. Not only is it quicker to get around but it’s a great way to see the neighborhood. As for the bike, I’ve given her a name: Lady Blue.
Check her out:
