Alright, so I've just spent the last five days being a bicycle salesperson. I've learnt more about bicycles in that week than I've known my entire life. And it's still not nearly enough. Bicycles are supposed to have a frame and two wheels, and a pair of brakes in case you need to stop in a hurry. But of course, it's always much more complicated than that. There are upwards of three different categories, each with their sub variations, in brakes alone.

 

The measurement standard is also somewhat of a redheaded step-child. In no other industry would inches be given in metric, yes, that's right, the width of a tire is 1.25 inches, not one and a quarter, but 1.25. Gotta love it.

 

Speaking of which, I am beginning to fall in love with the bikes. I have this funny feeling that my first few months wages will most likely go into a lazy cruiser or a nifty little racer. I guess it's true that if you spend enough time with anything you'll grow attached to it.

 

The customers are quite interesting as well. There is a surprisingly wide range of characters making their appearance at a bike shop, from laid back hippies to high flying execs sending their personal assistants on an errand.

 

All in all it has been a pleasant five days, certainly the most pleasant five working days. Though maybe not so much for my poor legs. A good couple of days off should sort that out.