rolling along with lena

And so folks, it is time.  I would like to introduce you to Lena—my moderately attractive two-wheeled friend who is eager for exploration and has an easy-going temperament.  Lena has been and will likely continue to be my main mode of transportation here in Borås.  She is my bicycle.

To give you a little history on her, I found Lena after looking at both new and used bikes in several shops around town.  With three gears, two fenders, and a remarkably practical basket, I knew Lena should be the one to accompany me on my adventures in Borås.  She has a frame the color of dusty strawberries, and a seat that rivals the springs of a sofa. 

Since bringing her home, I have equipped her with some lights and a bell.  Not an obnoxious bell.  Just a little ting, ting bell.  Some of the locals have informed me that, come wintertime, I may also need to outfit Lena with a pair of studded tires so she can better handle the ice.  However, I figure we will cross that bridge when we get there.

In the week and a half I have ridden her, I have found that Lena enjoys exploring rain or shine.  Together, we have learned that Borås has a rather mountainous terrain.  While Lena prefers going downhill, she can be coaxed into going uphill with a few words of encouragement.  But, you must remember that Lena only speaks Swedish.  So, until my Swedish improves (and my legs get stronger), we sometimes need to stop for little breather halfway up the hills. 

Lena has told me that she also prefers when I avoid the slugs on the trail.  On the few occasions when a slug has unexpectedly leapt out in front of us, I appreciated how Lena generously volunteered to use her fenders to contain the slug spray.  That’s just the type of bike she is.  And so, there you have it.  Lena. 
Min cykel.  

The other day, Lena and I enjoyed a nice evening by the lake.