Welcoming Earl to my stable ...

This is Earl, my new trusty commuter. 

I decided that I would not subject my 'cross bike to a winter of salt and slush so I searched for a relatively inexpensive bike that could handle knobby 'cross tyres, fenders and eventually a rack. While a FX is a logical choice ... I've already had one of those. I needed to branch out. 

So, I ordered up an Earl. Earl is a bit on the bandwagon in terms of fixies etc... given its flip flop hub and semi-ridiculous handlebars. But, Earl also has a split top tube (carrying my u-lock), steel frame (comfy), can take 'cross tyres, fenders and a rack. As well, Earl is not a bike w/ track geometry so it is ultra stable. And, lastly, one gear. No, I don't ride a fixie ... I prefer to coast thank you very much but I do enjoy a single speed during the colder months. No gear cables freezing etc...

I've been riding him for ... 4 or 5 days? Today was the first ice/snow day and Earl tackled it with aplomb. The Schwalbe CX Pro tyres that I installed (took the slick tyres off) help alot as well. 

Lastly, the best thing about Earl? Chain guard. 

Tim.