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One more folding bike
Mar. 2nd, 2009 06:58 pm
I'm now the proud possessor of another folding/ed bike.
On my way home from work this evening, I pulled out of the bus lane into the centre of the car lane to pass a stopped bus. As I came level with the front of the bus, a cyclist pulled out perpendicular to the traffic, from my left - i.e. behind the front of the bus. I collided with some force, which bent my forks back at the 90 degree angle you can see in the picture. Fortunately, I appear relatively undamaged, though I will be keeping an eye on sore bits tomorrow. I did land rather hard on my right knee. I don't think I even had time to brake. There may have been some rather furious effing and blinding, for which I later apologised. With a reiterated suggestion that he might like to cycle more prudently in future.
Cost of repair seems to depend on whether the frame is damaged. The main tubes appear OK, but the damage to the rear derailleur guard and the fact that the rear wheel is no longer true to the direction of travel doesn't bode well.
After a dismissive response from my local bike shop, I called Walton St Cycles, who were most helpful despite the closeness to closing time, and suggested I bring it in for a look-over.
The perpetrator, who after prompting provided his first name and phone number (should have asked for more, doh) appeared unharmed, as did his bike. He claimed to be a poor student. We shall see. Fortunately, I have a witness.
More photos of my poor bike here
