I’ve never been quite comfortable inside Sunflower Outdoor and Bike in Lawrence, Kan. My best friend Cam worked in the bike part of the store, and the way he talked about it and the general atmosphere of the shop made me feel like this place was more than just a store that wanted my money; It was more credible, more elite, more… something. Better than every other bike store in the area. Whatever it was that set Sunflower apart, it was made very clear to me — though now I’m not sure how, or by whom — that I was not the target customer.

For a while, this bothered me. I hated feeling uncomfortable delivering a sandwich or stopping in to say hi to Cam. I hated feeling like any question I’d ask would later be cause for ridicule. My worst fear was that I’d leave and Cam would get shit for what I didn’t know.

So I stayed quiet. I’m sure his co-workers were aware that I was the girl who sometimes brought cookies, sandwiches or the dog. But I had no personality. No “me.”

When Cam and I stopped talking (Don’t ask.), I started actively avoiding Sunflower. Well, I guess actively is a little strong — I really didn’t have any reason to go in there anyway. This avoidance was working out pretty well until three things happened:

1. I started gaining weight because my roommates bring ice cream, cake and other things that taste good but are bad for you into the house, and I just can’t resist.

2. I rode in a car to Axtell, Kan., and back and fell in love with small country roads.

3. Gas hit $4 a gallon.

These three factors — along with some deep-seated emotional issues — combined and created an intense longing to be on a bicycle. A road bike. For hours. Every day.

It took me about two months to figure out where the money would come from and work up the courage to walk into the bike shop without Cam and ask for help. I wasn’t sure I should or could buy a bike without his advice, but another friend — Andrew — hooked me up with his friend Jesse who talked me through the first decisions about buying a bike.

Even though Jesse was polite and helpful, I was hesitant to ask all of the questions I was labeling in my head as “stupid.” Should I feel like I’m pushing my butt off the back of the seat? Because I do. Why should I buy a women’s bike instead of a non-gender-specific bike? Is there a difference that I’m going to notice between the Trek and the Specialized? Does it come in green? I debated with myself as to whether the embarrassment of having a question come back to haunt me (or Andrew) was worth not knowing. And I figured I could find some answers online when I got home.

During the three days it took for me to choose a bike, work up the courage to slap my credit card down on the counter and have the bike adjusted to fit my body, my view of the shop — and the people who work there — changed.

Jesse talked me through deciding how much money I should logically spend (even though the $1,700 bike was pretty impressive). He explained why and where I wanted carbon fiber components. He smiled. A lot. And then he introduced me to Thomas.

Thomas made hundreds of little adjustments to a bike I didn’t end up buying, and helped me pick out a helmet that comfortably fits my ponytail. He even put up with me bringing Kate along to help pick out the right “bike outfit.” And he told me I was wrong to feel like I didn’t deserve to be wearing a “bike outfit.” He explained that my butt would thank me for wearing padded shorts and that every cyclist — even amateur — should wear proper clothing. And he smiled. A lot.

Today I asked Jesse to be My Space friends with me (well, with my band), and tomorrow I will stop by the shop to deliver 12-packs of PBR for him and Thomas (because Andrew says that’s what makes a good tip at a bike shop). I might even be wearing my “bike outfit” when I stop in. Because I deserve it.

I’m pretty sure these guys know me as more than just “the girl who delivers sandwiches.” Now, I might just be “the girl who rides a Specialized Allez.” I like that. And I’m pretty excited that I know them well enough to know that they won’t make fun of me next time I ask (what is to me) the most important question: Does it come in green?

3 Responses to “Does it come in green?”

1. Erick Says:
   July 12th, 2008 at 7:48 pm

   I bought a bike at Sunflower, and was really afraid of sounding “dumb” at first. But I, too, got help from Thomas. That guy is incredible. He puts a lot of time into a customer, regardless of their previous bike knowledge. I hope your bike works out!

2. Jaimie Says:
   July 15th, 2008 at 8:06 pm

   I am so-o excited for you that you got a bike!! You definitely deserve your bike outfit. And you got a great bike, though I may be partial because I have a Specialized Allez as well. Have fun.

3. Kelly Says:
   July 17th, 2008 at 4:24 pm

   I love that your bike and your toes match.

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