Screw cars. That new-car smell wears off and those stinky yellow trees are kind of annoying, dontcha think? Spring is here - time for a set of new wheels. Human-powered pedal style! I get a ton of questions from friends, blog readers, Oregonian readers, and general random strangers about how to go about buying a new bike. Last Sunday I laid down the basics in the Outdoors section of the O.

I knew I was in trouble when he brought me back to his apartment and she was there, waiting for us. Leaning up against the wall. Sleek, slender, sophisticated, exotic. She was polite upon meeting me, but quiet. He regarded her with a reverence and adoration I had not anticipated. It would have been easier if I’d hated her outright, but I didn’t. She was stunning. It was hard not to stare.

Thinking about joining a group ride? Start here. It's springtime - group rides are in full swing. Get in on one and watch what happens - you'll ride faster, further and have more fun than you've ever had on a bicycle. There are a few important things to know about riding in a group, but don't be intimidated - once you get the hang of it, you'll be glad you took the plunge. You don't have to be on a team to ride with a group. Ask your local bike shop if there are any standing rides you can join. Chances are, if they don't have one of their own, they'll know where you can find one.

A few juicy maintenance-related secrets to sweeten your shop life. Bortman also recently wrote a "Spring Cleaning Tips" article for BikePortland.org. Check it out for some extra goodness.

I keep a peripheral eye on the pro cycling scene these days, regarding the men of the pedals as impossible giants in a world much larger than I can stomach.  When I read that Hincapie (or whoever) averaged 340 watts for 4 hours, it’s incomprehensible to me.  They exist in a universe so far away [...]

Super easy, stupid-simple and seriously savory. This is going to become a regular snack around here for sure. As scary-good as kale is for your health, you should give it a shot, too. You may even be able to convert some non-believers. Thanks to Patrick and Michael for the roasting tip! There were a few other recipes mentioned that I plan to try in the next few weeks. Stay tuned, Kale Komandos.