“Eye of Sauron” Autumn yells every time I walk my bike into Bikes on the Drive. The first couple of times I just did the smile and nod, thinking she was maybe a little soft, or at least just highly excitable. But I got my bike from a friend who tricked it out with all kinds of goodies including, it turns out, an eye of Sauron over the rear brakes.

When I explained that I got my bike from a friend she looked me pointedly in the eye and said, “that’s a nice friend.” I hoped my nice friend would also be able to tell me what the heck an Eye of Sauron was so that Autumn wouldn’t keep thinking I was a fool, but it turns out the internet does a rather good job of that anyways.

While I was busy learning about LOTR symbology, the kindly bike mechanics overhauled my bike, made sure I tested it and brought it back if there was anything awry, let me know which parts were liable to need maintenance next and wished me some happy riding. I walked out of there with a happily tuned up bike as well as having learned a thing or two.

Bikes on the Drive is located at 1350 Commercial Drive.