I didn't receive a huge financial settlement after being nearly killed by a distracted driver, but my medical costs have largely been paid for and I came away with a replacement bike and enough money to buy a new car. In choosing a car to replace the ten-year old beater in my driveway, I was searching for the perfect rando vehicle. I needed something that's great on gas (to get back and forth from brevets and ultra races) and something that would fit my bike and gear in the back. Knowing myself well, I've pledged NEVER to mount a bike on the roof. The sound of a custom frame being mangled by a low-hanging obstacle would be the end of me.
With all of this in mind, this past August I bought a 2011 Toyota Prius which, I will argue, is the PERFECT rando vehicle. With gas mileage hovering around 55 mpg, I've cut my fuel costs in half and feel much better about driving hundreds of miles to ride my bike.
As you can see, there is also PLENTY of room in the back to store my fully kitted out rando bike. In fact, I don't even need to remove the front wheel! Everything fits beautifully.
Other amenities include a great sound system (complete with iPod cable) and heated leather seats.
Finally, after a lifetime of mocking people with vanity license plates, I decided it was time to let the world know about my major long-term cycling goal. I've always found that being public about goals is not only great motivation, but it also helps us reach them. After being sidelined in 2011, I WILL ride Paris-Brest-Paris in 2015. I just won't drive there in this car.
From bicycle to car, so how’s the change? What’s much better? Looks like you got yourself a good ride. It perfectly fits your active life. Drive safely!
ReplyDelete-Brittanie Holderness
Good thing is you have survived from that car accident. Almost all car accident cases are caused by distracted drivers, such those that are texting while driving. I suggest that everyone should be educated about the dangers of neglecting such safety reminders. But anyway, I like your new car because this car comes with a protection system against the driver and passengers’ whiplash. I bet that’s why you chose this car, so that to prevent any other accidents to happen again.
ReplyDeleteClint Moore