I found a great deal on a used Lemonde Big Sky SL roadbike. The bike has Shimano 105 derailleur, shifters and brakes, Ultegra 735 crank, Bontrager wheels and headstock. The frame is aluminum with carbon fiber fork and the seat post has a shock in it to absorb the sharper bumps . The bars are a bit wider than some and are wrapped in a very soft gel tape and it also came with a cycle computer.

Before buying I checked reviews online and they were all extremely positive explaining the bike was a light, fast,  comfortable ride that climbs like a goat. The bike shop explained it has a slightly longer rake than some bikes so it would be less twitchy, a bit more stable and comfortable particularly on long rides. The headstock is fully adjustable with an extra knuckle allowing for it to be lowered and provides a lot of adjustment.  The bike shop fit the bike for me and changed out the seat from a Bontrager spring casual seat to a Fusik racer. I went with a recommendation of a friend and purchased clip pedals and shoes. I was a bit worried about the pedals fearing the obvious (forget to unclip and fall) but riding last night it was second nature and the disengage motion is easy. I particularly like the fact they ensure my feet stay in proper position, but also allow some wiggle room while pedaling.

I likely will move my rear rack from my mountain bike over to it. I like the idea of the rack and pack to carry spare tube, pump, and other stuff. A rear fender doesn’t hurt in the rain either. Although I may end up using my camel back for carrying water along with trip odds and ends. The Lemonde brand is designed by legendary Gregg Lemonde and was manufactured by Trek.

So I am officially in training for my first century and crusing the tarmak!….Lookout!.

I am writing today for a very special purpose. I am going to ride in the Seacoast Bike Tour™ for Breathe New Hampshire. I lost my father in 2007 due to lung cancer and also know many who suffer Asthma and Lung Disease; therefore, I have committed myself to this very special cause and am looking for sponsors. This is a two day Bike Tour to be held on May 16 – May 17. All proceeds from this 24^th Annual Seacoast Bike Tour™ will benefit lung health education programs in New Hampshire.

Since I have volunteered to do the hard work, I am asking my family, friends, coworkers, and business associates to sponsor me in my efforts on behalf of a great cause! I need to raise a minimum of $350.00; however, my goal is $1200.00!!    Every single dollar counts!

Anyone who pledges me $20.00 or more and enters their pledge online via credit card will be entered in a raffle for three great raffle prizes!

Winners will be notified by June 16, 2009.

Prizes will be listed shortly on the Seacoast Bike Tour page of the Breathe New Hampshire website at www.breathenh.org

Contributions may be made by check (made out to Breathe New Hampshire), or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). I will gladly pick up any contributions. For your convenience you can also pledge me directly using your credit card by going online to www.breathenh.org and visiting my official Bike Tour site at http://www.breathenh.org/stadig

If you are unable to sponsor me for this event, but would like to support Breathe New Hampshire, I would be glad to provide you with other opportunities such as volunteering or joining my team. I am really looking forward to participating in this fundraising event and will let you know about my experience when it’s all over.

Your support is greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Glen R Stadig