fixie2botlek

	Fixie build done! Time for a longer test ride. Still not very experienced in riding a fixie and had some hairy moments already. Anyway, the weather is cold but nice, let's go!
	To the Botlek. Took my camera with me. This is such a photogenic place.

	On we go. A long moderately steep fly-over ahead.

	Doesn't look like much but had a hard time there a few times on my geared bike, in strong headwinds. Slight tailwind now, take some deep breaths and go.
	Well that went, eh, well! Very doable on 46x17. The lightness of the bike and the fixed gear keeps momentum, or something.
	Don't even have to take a rest, just having a look around from the 'top of the hill'. Like a science-fiction palace.
	Zooom
	Zooooom. The stuff is cooking away nicely.
	Graphic details.
	Continuing. Botlek bridge in the distance.
	Ha ha, paint it like a mushroom, wonder who actualy did that. And why not the one next to it? Maybe got caught in the act :)
	Looking back. Strange pipes and things growing out of the soggy grass.
	That must be trees, but you can't be sure here.
	Caged pipes and mysterious signs.
	Speaking of pipes. I imagine they just lay a new one when they can't find the schematics anymore.
	Never feel really safe near these huge tanks with probably highly flammable liquids in enormous quantities. That logo always reminds me of an explosion.
	A slice of industry
	The long road along the fence.


	Intrigued by the trees.
	I like the contrast of the black scrubby trees against the white silo's. Glad I did bring that camera. Some nice pictures resulted, if I may say so myself. (<-- Link to a series of B&W pisctures)
	Green is the good stuff, stay away from the red? Moving on.
	Luckily, there is an advanced system in place to protect you from the toxic gas.
	Turning back. Reminds me of a box of building blocks
	Hang on in there.
	Fairground attraction
	Framed
	I am taller
	It could just walk away
	Cool.
	Almost back home. Fixie behaved wonderful (by not killing me), what a joy to drive. Yes, some hairy moments: going downhill at 41 kmh with your feet strapped in, forced to go around at 120rpm, was... entertaining. Glad I had that front brake. Wonder if I could have 'unplugged' my feet at that speed... I use to stretch now and then by stopping pedalling and push my heels toward the ground. Does not work on a fixie. Nearly folded my foot in half. Stop pedalling and standing up for big bumps or holes in the road does not work. Nearly got launched over the handlebar. On the other hand: It is so simple. It is so light and responsive! The acceleration is amazing. You feel connected to the road. The ride is so much smoother than expected. Long rides seem to be no problem. You have to drive differently, more aware. Take nothing for granted. I love it.