Long live the Tour de France!  The 2020 version of the world’s greatest cycling event is later in the calendar this year, but it is still taking place--at least the initial stages.  The 107th edition of this grand tour is steeped in tradition, but this year some things will be different and some things will still be the same. 

The fact that Tracy and Peter Flucke bicycled across the country on a tandem 4,362 miles is amazing.  What enhances their recounting of the adventure is their willingness to share all the details,  from why they decided to do it, how they trained, the bicycle equipment, a day by day log of the cycling conditions and destinations, people they met along the way including some heartwarming acts of kindness towards them, and personal challenges and triumphs.  All of these are documented in their book, Coast to Coast on a Tandem.  They provided highlights as guest speakers at the Evanston Bicycle Club meeting on Tues. Aug. 18, 2020. 

For many people their bike is a prized possession and losing it as a result of theft is devastating.  If you’ve ever had a bike stolen you know the sense of loss you experience.  It is like going through the 5 stages of grief:

• Denial – where did I leave it?
• Anger – what dirt bag would dare take it?
• Bargaining – maybe I can get it back if I contact all the bike shops in Chicago
• Depression – I miss my bike!  Why did this happen to me?
• Acceptance – It’s gone.  I’ll do a better job taking care of it next time

When you leave your bike, there are best practices in terms of equipment and knowledge to protect it.  But even if you are vigilant by using a ulock with a high security rating, utilize proper locking, or rarely leave your bike locked in public places, the best precautions can still be foiled.  There are a few things you can do in advance to prepare for the unthinkable bike theft.