Full Cycle

Town Mouse has written movingly here about the departure of an old friend. Thanks to Shunters of Berwick " From Anywhere to Anywhere-eventually" my old bike, like the Ashes, has come home. It is good to see it again.

It is, in the correct sense of the word,unique. Put together by a craftsman in north London who created his machines from the remains of others-half nicked (in the sense that the chained bit defeated the thief who made of with the rest and then dumped it)
partial survivors of an argument with a car or a bollard; tossed out unloved Raleigh surplus to requirements and in the pre Freecycle (npi) era what else could you do?-'Bring me your muddled messes yearning to be reconditioned-and I'll lovingly do it. And I did. Cheque will do nicely guvnor' Although it never graced the corridors of the Old Admiralty Building as my other Foreign Office Bike did propelling me, one legged virtually, around a department 120 yards long and 50 wide it has seen honourable service and was the star of Disgruntled Commuter now replaced with another purpose built but so- this -century model. So to Duns and a quiet retirement.

One problem. Unique bikes need unique tools. Saddle (12" too high)needs lowering. My huge collection of tools for most occasions is incomplete so technical assistance required. The Other Half of Town Mouse is now in receipt of close up images of the appropriate mechanisms (sample above) and electronic advice will soon be forthcoming

The bike boasts an air-powered klaxon horn (disguised as a water bottle). I am told that it is VERY LOUD To use this I must very carefully wait my moment.

Duns may not be ready.

It is usually a quiet place

I may have to wait for the next Jim Clarke Rally

Labels: Bike., Cycling in Duns

  ¶ 10:40 AM