I've been riding my bike even though my bronchitis isn't completely gone. I can't help it; the new bike is beautiful and begs me to take it out in the cooler fall weather. On Tuesday I had a coughing fit during a ride that was reminiscent of a smoker with emphysema. This will pass.

I love showing off this beauty to fellow cyclists. Even bike shop employees are drooling over it, and one guy asked me if I spent fourteen grand. (14??? I am far from being THAT nuts.)

Next year I'm going to race a lot because I want to utilize the CR1 to its maximum capabilities. Buying a new bike is a huge motivator.