by Lori Kadin
Let me preface this by saying no humans or animals were harmed in this series of unfortunate events.
Dateline: Sunday, August 17, a warm and sunny day. Following a 45-mile ride with the medium group, I hobbled off my bike, suffering foot pain due to an annoying tailor’s bunion that generally makes its presence known around 40 miles into a ride in the heat.
I leaned my bike against my Kuat rack and quickly kicked off my shoes, changing into my most welcome sandals in the car (How do you spell relief?).
Now, to back up (and I’m sure you’ve figured out what’s coming, and this is a bit of a pun), I usually secure my bike in my Kuat rack immediately after a ride, before changing my shoes, but on that fateful Sunday, my foot discomfort changed things up.
I then proceeded to put my car in reverse. Then, much to the horror of several onlookers, came the crunching noise, followed by screams from my (now-traumatized) Venus sisters.
I knew right away that the bike was toast; just a simple crack in a carbon frame can render a bike useless, and this was far more than a crack.
Still in a bit of shock, I assured everyone I was fine, except for my bruised ego, and I drove straight home.
But here’s the lemons-to-lemonade part: Both of my bikes are insured! Having that rider on my homeowners’ insurance was a lifesaver for my sanity and bank account. Within days, I had money in hand and found the perfect used (and in immaculate condition) bike in my size (another Cervélo) that is built for endurance and comfort, not speed (like my now deceased R3 was) — better suited for my current riding style and goals. Thank you, Pro’s Closet!
So, my fellow cyclists, here’s my advice to you: Always, always, ensure your bike is in the rack BEFORE you start your car. And if you have a roof rack, perhaps consider having a system, a sticky note, or something to remind you it’s on there before you pull into the garage. And get that rider on your insurance.
This is dedicated to my now-deceased bike, Lewis (named for John Lewis because I got him on the day the civil rights leader was laid to rest). July 30, 2020 – August 17, 2025. RIP.
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