After developing a chronic case of plantar fasciitis, I had to stop running and find an aerobic exercise easier on the heel. The answer was to take up biking. First came the stationary exercise bike, which is fine for the winter months. Then this spring I decided to try a road bike, which I found I really enjoyed. I got a good but inexpensive bike at first, to see if I would stick to it. Then, after deciding that biking was really the answer to my long term aerobic exercise needs, I got serious and this new Surly Pacer bike is the result. This thing is smooth as silk and oozes quality. I went for the classic look instead of the more colorful, flashy look that's much more popular today (waddaya expect from a 70 year old geezer engineer.....). I equipped it for comfort and exercise rather than racing (32mm tires, all steel frame, Brooks leather seat, street shoe pedals, seat bag for photography stuff and spare tube, 18 gears, etc.).