Scott Martin

The recession's over, according to a bunch of economists who still have jobs.

The rest of us, however, have to keep scrimping. Which is not easy when there are electronic derailleurs to be coveted, wheels to be upgraded and carbon frames to be fondled.

Fear not. Here's an excerpt from my forthcoming A-to-Z recession-buster guide:

A. Forgo New Bike Purchase

Pro: With good bikes costing well into 4 figures these days, you could buy a new car -- well, at least a new Toyota -- for the price of a top-end Trek or Giant. Or one-quarter of a semester of junior's college education.

Con: If your current bike is more than a couple of years old, you could probably get a new one that's at least 2 pounds lighter. On a 3-mile climb with 6% grade, that translates to a savings of, oh, 14 seconds. But the look on your riding partner's face when you beat him by 13 seconds: priceless.

B. Do Own Repairs

Pro: Save on bike shop labor charges while gaining satisfaction of maintaining your equipment and working with own hands. Bonus: Get to crank favorite tunes in designated workspace, where annoying family members and/or housemates fear to tread because of toxic degreaser fumes.

Con: You can't tell a torque wrench from a tortellini.

C. Cancel Deluxe Cable Service

Pro: No more writing $129.99 monthly checks to cable company so you can watch obscure Flandrian semi-classics while waiting for July when the Tour de France airs. Bonus: Not tempted to buy $300 Stetson after getting hooked on coverage of Pro Bull Riding circuit.

Con: Complete bafflement when Phil Liggett-imitating riding buddies make "suitcase of courage" jokes.

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