Day 257, Bike rehab, it's come to this

As a cyclist for many years it has been my unfortunate experience to have known some right old tearaways of bicycles.

Some of them would stop out all night chained to railings, some of them would appear to be doing a good job and then one end or the other would suddenly let you down, and some while gearing up or down would leave you stuck after a cable snap.

Perhaps it's the nature of their upbringing, maybe poverty, or neglect, mistreatment, abuse, who knows what has had the effect of disrupting what could have been a satisfactory life.  These poor devices may sometimes turn to drinking light oils, or prescription lubricants or even the abuse of substances in the puncture repair kit, after that it is a bumpy ride downhill.

But there are avenues of escape - yes it's true that the formerly shiny mode of transport has to reach a point of recognition, of willingness to change course - therapy (wheel-truing), counselling (neuro-linguistic pedalling), and other forms of rehabilitation, repainting and re-chroming, are all available to those that are willing to change and have the requisite support and funding.

These things are much more visible than they used to be, no longer a sign of weakness or cause for shame.  So it should be no surprise to see this new bold initiative to advertise the bike rehab services available in a city centre near you.

And what delightful surroundings too.

Just behind the bins.

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