After replacing most of the drive chain of the High Sierra I feel like I have finally done right by a machine that’s been remarkably dependable, even after long periods of disuse and neglect. It wasn’t a big problem skipping the middle ring for short trips, but got to be tedious if I was out all day. With all three chain rings useable again it fits my around-town and commuter needs very well. With fair skies and a mild temperature it was a close-to-perfect ride.
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| Schwinn High Sierra and Burley Travoy Grocery Run |
The Safari’s
long wheelbase, extra large frame and rear rack make it a very close fit for
the Travoy, but on the Schwinn the fit is perfect. Recently, the Schwinn was at
the center of a brief discussion at Bikes and More where the question was asked
whether it qualified as mountain bike or had become a hybrid? Hybrid seems to define a bike intended to be a
hybrid and can include trekking, cross, commuter, city and comfort designs, The
distinctions and differences between and among these designs can be pretty
indistinct and more a matter of taste, or so it seems to me. I could put a set
of off road tires on the Schwinn and use it as a mountain bike taking it back
to its early heritage where it would easily outperform me. Its utilitarian
qualities and durability make it a good fit for this small urban community. My nomenclature,
therefore, is inexpensive transportation device.
