R.I.P. SI 2.0

The many parts that made up Superfly Interrobang 2.0 were likely manufactured in Taiwan and various other Asian countries with a cheap labor force. Once these parts were inexpensively but painstakingly manufactured, it can be assumed that SI 2.0 was assembled by Trek somewhere in the U.S., possibly at their hub in Madison, WI. It was here that she began her life as a Gary Fisher Superfly. Unfortunately, her life had a rather unceremonious beginning. Following a 2008 model year in which Superflys flew off the shelves, there were some changes. For 2009, Trek (Owner of the Gary Fisher Brand) raised the price of the Superfly and increased production, hoping to both meet demand and increase profit margin. This resulted in the failure of many of these beautiful bikes to sell. This particular Superfly was among the ones that slipped through the cracks and remained in the warehouse unwanted and unpurchased. Soon, desperate to find homes for sad, lonely Superflys everywhere, Trek put the remaining stock on clearance. This was where this Superfly's fate began to change. Curtis Prosser, one of the owners and managers of Haymarket Bicycles, informed me of this clearance. Although another new bike was the last thing I needed, my heart went out to this unwanted, unloved Superfly (and I like new stuff). Given a price that was tough to refuse, I parted with my old race steed, the Joker, in order to afford the much sought after Superfly.

(The Joker was a beautiful, well loved race bike with every part chosen to my exact specification. Unfortunately, it was not carbon and did not have 29" wheels, so it was sold. I miss it.)

(This is a stock Gary Fisher Superfly. Not nearly as purple and visually arresting as the Joker, but it has larger 29" wheels as opposed to standard 26" mountain bike wheels. Also, it is light, made of carbon and dead sexy.)

The Superfly and I felt an instant connection. Her bigger wheels and lighter, stiffer frame helped her to roll over logs and large rocks better than any bike I had ever ridden, while maintaining quick acceleration and climbing ability. As time went on and our relationship grew, I knew it was time to give this stock Superfly a new name to make her feel loved and reflect the mystery of her unparalleled awesomeness. Thus, she was named Interrobang. Interrobang and I had many adventures and a healthy relationship. We traveled throughout Virginia and Pennsylvania together to find and tame any available singletrack. When it was time for me to head to California to work for Amor, SI pledged her unwavering support and accompanied me on the journey here. Because of SI's willingness to support this life change, we were able to spend some very valuable, wonderful time together. We explored the trails around Colorado Springs, Co, enjoying flowing trails and wonderful views of the city.

(Exploring the roads, trails and mountains around Colorado Springs.)

We also spent time together in Moab, perhaps the highlight of our relationship. We enjoyed the world famous slickrock trail together as part of a 2 day stay that included three tremendous rides.

(The world famous slickrock trail, a must for any mountain biker that can make the trip. Shrimp Rock, beautiful snow capped mountains and red slick rock can be seen in this photo.)

(SI was always a lover of nature, here she takes a break from a ride in Moab to observe a beautiful desert flower.)

Although we didn't get to ride, we also enjoyed the incredible views of Lake Tahoe together. This trip across the U.S. did not come without it's challenges, though. We did have to travel through Kansas, where SI was blown about on her rack with impunity. We also had to travel on the relentless highways of Nevada. Finally, as a result of a mistake I made during our travels, SI was grievously injured. This was perhaps the low point in our relationship. Because I had so much going on both time wise and financially during my first three months in California, SI sat damaged and unused. Despite this dark time, I was soon able to repair her with new wheels and an improved, pink crankset, therefore making her SI 2.0. After putting so much work and thought into restoring our relationship, SI 2.0 quickly forgave me for the months of neglect, displaying her characteristic grace. We quickly resumed our relationship where it had left off, exploring unknown areas and forming a closer more intimate bond. Together, we found new trails in the San Diego area, Mexico and even completed a 50 mile Sunday ride, despite my lack of conditioning. Sadly, this ride would be our last. After that beautiful adventure was finished, I noticed a small crack in the head tube of SI 2.0.

(Just below the G2 decal, you can see a hairline crack in SI 2.0's headtube. If made worse with wear, it could cause me grievous injury.)

There is a chance this crack could just be cosmetic, but given the risk that it could give way and cause a catostrophic crash, the bike had to be put down. This was a painful decision for me. SI 2.0 and I have grown so close in such a brief time. Despite our love for one another, her biggest responsibility is to support my weight while riding down rocky descents at high speeds. Given that she can no longer be counted on to fulfill this responsibility, I had to make the hard call. Yesterday, SI 2.0's frame was sent to that great singletrack in the sky. She is survived by Sram X-O componentry, fox fork, bontrager RXL wheelset, seatpost, handlebars and stem, Truvativ noir crankset, Selle Italia saddle, Avid juicy ultimate brakes and me. We all ask that she be remembered for her adventurous spirit, love of the outdoors, unwavering support and sweet teal color scheme. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to http://www.amor.org/. It is what she would have wanted.

SUPERFLY INTERROBANG 2.0

OCTOBER 2009 - SEPTEMBER 2010

SHE LIVED, SHE LOVED, SHE SHOWED ME THE BEAUTY OF 29ER'S. IN THANKS, I BROKE HER WITH WITH MY EXCESSIVE WEIGHT AND POOR BIKE HANDLING SKILLS. MAY SHE FIND SOMEONE BETTER IN THE GREAT BEYOND. REST IN PEACE, YOU SLEEK, BEAUTIFUL, CARBON, AMERICAN RACING MACHINE.