w2f,

Even though Victoria has all the hallmarks of civilization,(McDonald's, 7-11, Starbucks) we are actually a small town. From the shop it is just a little over a mile to water in almost every direction. Even old decrepit me can walk from the shop to downtown 1.1mi. in less than 30 min. And that includes stopping for a coffee on one block, and a fresh bagel on the next.

Too bad you have a thing against 'bent bikes. I have a long wheel base, under seat steering aluminum "Infinity" at the house. Gear ratio from 18.5" to 115". 64 gears. I chickened out when I hit 85mph on level ground drafting behind a semi.

Bikes are everywhere here and I'm sure we can find you something in a coaster brake, wicker basket, streamers from the handlebars & balloon tired kind of bike.

For those who still haven't found lodging I still have one sofa bed, a guest room across the street and a chunk of floor under the shop layout table free.