n + 11 Elements

Bicycle collectors lay claim to an unremarkable but no less wonderful algebraic expression that describes the ideal number of bikes one should own. Three linked characters, associated terms we might better call them, provide a framework to suit any collector's outlook. Its three terms are simple but malleable and, thereby, they describe the fundamental spirit binding a multitude of collections and collecting practices. This expression reveals a mindset shared by many bicycle enthusiasts -- or a compulsion, rationalization, obsession -- take your pick. It is a forward thinking mindset, yet is values history - its own or another's, even a collective one. It enshrines and preserves significant moments, connections, and experiences that can be tucked away, displayed, or used in whatever combination appeals. It is switched on by the arrival of the monthly magazine, a new model year (generally well under 365 days), and every new day of posts on eBay. Indeed, every day dawns with awesome possibility!

For the uninitiated, n + 1 defines the ideal number of bikes one should own, where n is the number of bikes currently owned and + 1 is the next bike.

I am one of the collectors who smile whenever n + 1 is mentioned. Then I know I'm among friends. Like-minded enthusiasts. Allies. Someone I get and who gets me. Of course, I respect and even admire those who only have one bike they love and ride constantly and those who choose to downsize their fleets. Life brings changes that sometimes necessitate that; or we evolve new attitudes, interests, and values. Adherents of the n - 1 + 1 approach may have a more justifiable practice, depending on the circumstances. When they decide to buy a new bike, they sell one first. For now, it's plain and simple n + 1 for me.

But the constant + 1 is anything but constant. Like the winds, it is ever-changing. It blows sometimes gently, sometimes like a gale. It arises from different points on the compass. It can return the collector to much loved times and places and well-trodden paths; and it can, as easily, steer them in unexpected directions. And in cycling, the future happens every day. This constant + 1 varies by the interplay of multiple dimensions that are always in flux, some more forceful than others. At the moment for me, n + 1 = n + 11. But n + 1 really does suffice. Such simplicity and elegance!

I have recently been listening to Ted Talks about collecting. I'm still gripped with childhood angst and guilt associated with wanting things I might not really need. Need is another word with many shades of meaning. Most of the Ted Talks describe evolutionary antecedents that quite plausibly explain the practices commonly seen among collectors of all ages. There seems to be agreement among health professional on the multiple benefits to wellbeing from many aspects of collecting, so long as it doesn't devolve into hoarding. The social, emotional, and physical benefits can only be encouraging. Terrific. Let's go!

This post collects the elements that would become part of my collection were the stars to align to make that happen. To be a "+ 1" candidate, the bike must be my size, in great condition, and a bargain price. I want to ride them, I don't like scratches, excessive wear that I didn't put on myself, or abuse and neglect of any kind, and funds are not unlimited. Such is life.

Proceed, if you wish...

Specialized Allez SE (1985)

This one was on eBay for a few weeks recently. I nearly bought it. Figuring out how to get it and store it, as we are away at the moment, was what stopped me. A little research on bike blogs suggests the asking price of $800 was really high. I do not agree. This one had everything just right to justify the price. (OK, now I'm regretting not buying it.) The components are Suntour Superbe in very good condition, with an NOS set of brake levers and hoods. The stem is engraved Specialized and filled with matching red paint. Nice touch. The bars are not original, but these have been swapped out for a better option for the aging cyclist -- shallow drop. The wheels are built with Mavic MA40 clincher rims rather than the original Specialized Saturne tubular rims. That's just a more practical option. Not only that, the rims are tagged with a shop sticker from Los Gatos. Indeed, one positive aspect of collecting is the connections it can make with people. The Los Gatos coincidence is a really lovely plus. (A dear friend and fellow enthusiast -- though I'm not sure he would label himself thus -- hails from that Bay Area town.) What's more, the fellow selling this bike is the same one who sold me my Bianchi TSX (see RT Collection). I picked it up from him directly, and so got to meet him. We had a really friendly chat about bikes that time, and I always remembered him fondly. So to buy a second bike from him and to say hello would have been very pleasant. This Allez is equipped with modern and fantastic Vittoria Corsa G+ tires in what appears to be a wider diameter. Perfect! The only change I would consider to improve the riding enjoyment of this bike might be the saddle. (OK, now I am really regretting not buying this one.)

The biggest appeal of this particular bike is the paint. The current owner had it repainted a slightly darker tint of red, with a sprinkle of metallic flake. He made the exactly best choice. That small difference moves what was a wonderfully fine color scheme very close to perfection. Kudos. So, this bike has been beautifully maintained and thoughtfully refined...in the same ways I would hope to do. Great that it is already done....and by a cool guy in Orange County.

Another personal connection: Clint Gardener, a colleague of my mother's at Farmers, was a very kind person who encouraged me in cycling in early years. He took me along on my first Century ride down to San Diego. He gave practical advice I still remember and paced us the whole of the 100 miles. He delivered me to the train station to get back to Santa Ana. An afternoon snooze on the Amtrak after that ride still ranks among the top ten sleeps I've ever had. Clint had decided to ride back the next day, to the chagrin of his knees, it would turn out. That was unfortunate. I always looked forward to Clint's occasional visits to our house. During one of those visits, he told me about the special bike he had decided to buy. With his modest salary and a keen sense of responsibility to his family, a new bike was decision that demanded reflection and introspection. But his well-worn Trek touring bike had seen better days. He told me (well, us....but I was the only one who got what he was talking about) that he had settled on a Dave Moulton Fuso with Suntour Superbe components. (Scroll down to see Fuso on my list here.) He explained how Suntour Superbe were a truly fine component group for the elegant profiles, exquisite polish, and near silent operation. The shifting was smooth, fast, and certain. The sure grip of the drilled levers and the robust calipers together inspired a sense of control and confidence. I appreciated and agreed with his view of these Japanese bike parts, even if I tended toward Europeans, myself.

Presenting the Specialized Allez SE! (These photos do not rightly belong to me. I will seek permission from the owner a.s.a.p.)

Enthusiasts will recognize this as the bike Marcus and David Sommers rode in American Flyers. That movie was a good attempt to follow up Breaking Away, though it might have done better to showcase the U.S. cycling scene as it was rather than to romanticize it with made up stuff. Ain't no way a guy who rides 35 miles a few times a week on the bike paths of Saint Louis is going to beat the Soviet team--at Rocky Mountain altitudes--with a week or two of extra training. Single handed, too. Nope, cycling is definitely a team sport when you're riding against a team. "Shake - n - Break"?!?!? Oh. That was too silly. Some might point out that there is no way Rae Dawn Chong would be able to do a rear wheel change in 8 seconds, faster than most professional mechanics--certainly the French ones. Well, that really happened. (I don't recall where I learned that...but that doesn't make me any less sure.) So, Rae Dawn Chong was a true groundbreaking player in this movie -- female mechanical support and faster than the fellows. Let the stereotypes fade into the past. "Bombed out Beirut, eh?" She allowed no nonsense. (She had to. She lived with a cyclist.)

Initiates will recognize this as one of Specialized's early entries into the bike frame market. The Allez had been around a few years, but changed every now and then, as Specialized worked with different manufacturers. I have read that their earliest frames were built in the Medici shop in San Marcos, but this is not certain. Miyata of Japan built the Allez SE in 1984-85, I believe. Given that Miyata made really nice frames, one could hope that this is the case. Enjoy.