Chris rolled in from work a couple hours early this afternoon. Cash in hand, the whole family ventured to Downtown Denver to visit our favorite bike shop. Salvagetti Bicycle Workshop is a fabulous little place off Platte and 16th St. They just happen to be an Xtracycle and Kona dealer.
As we walked in, I heard angels sing. Pretty sure the light moved just enough to highlight the beauty of the Ute sitting along the left wall. Grinning like an idiot, I told Scott (the owner) I wanted to test ride the bike. I'm sure he was happy at the prospect of us actually spending money there.
I was instantly in love.
In the off chance it didn't work for me, we didn't have any great backup plans. I was sure it would work.
The guys dropped the seat lower for my little legs and handed me a helmet. It was so much lighter than I expected! I plotted the route I would take in my head--over the Highland Bridge to Commons Park and back. Off I went. Off I flew! The glorious seat--so comfortable. The gears, shifting smooth and easy. Brakes. Oh the brakes. Disc brakes that stopped on a dime. Needless to say, we bought it.
Did I mention, I am in love.
Coming home was interesting. We're going to have to modify the racks on the roof of our car, but I don't anticipate driving the bike much anyway.

A few tweaks at home and we were ready to go. Chris headed off first, since he hadn't had a chance to try it. Up and down our little street he flew. Then it was my turn. I decided I wanted to see how it would feel with a load on the back, so I convinced him to jump on the deck and I hauled him up and down the street. Not too bad at all! Groceries won't be a problem at all. We switched places and he gave it a try with me on the back. By then the kids realized we were giving rides and were eager to join in on the fun. Chris and Boone went first. I think the bike makes them as happy as it does me. Lily gave it a go and giggled like fiend.
We've probably given the bike a good 10 miles just bopping around the neighborhood. It is as awesome as I had imagined.