They say that \”n + 1\” is the formula for how many \”rides\” a cyclist should have: \”n\” being the number of bicycles currently owned; and \”+ 1\” being the next bicycle that the cyclist has an eye on.

For me, n + 1 = 3. I have a road bike and a hybrid; so according to this formula I \”should\” want a — well, let me think.

Mountain bike? Around here a mole hill would be considered mountainous. An MTB\’s knobby tires, they say, take a lot of extra effort when riding on pavement; and I hardly need that.

Perhaps a cross bike? I prefer a bike that\’s in a good mood, thank you very much. I\’m not sure I\’d be in such a good mood myself after an event that leaves both me and my bike plastered with mud!

Touring bike? Maybe I\’ll get one, some day; IF I manage to put aside enough funds to both buy a touring bicycle and take one of Adventure Cycling\’s epic tours; and these trips can last for up to three months. That would mean a LOT of training!

Alas, one day we all reach the point where the budget and/or available storage room forces a halt to the \”+1\” part of the how-many-bicycles equation. My having \”only\” two bicycles would seem like bicycle poverty to the hardcore \”n+ 1\” camp. Two is my limit because I don\’t have room for any more.

But maybe one day I\’ll jump on the \”+ 1\” bandwagon. One never knows!