Trail Blazer: Chain Grease, Not Skin Grease

FORGET THE ACID-WASHED JEANS and chronic acne. Cherish the good: You know, that awkward slow dance with the guy from your chemistry class with the wandering hands. (Shudder.) Or give history another spin this Friday at the Washington Area Bicyclist Association's Bike Prom Dance Party ($5, 9:30 p.m.) at the Black Cat (1811 14th St. NW; 202-667-7960).

"I have a pink '80s prom dress I'm going to wear," says WABA membership and development assistant Jennifer Bress, who's DJing. "It's got a heart-shaped neckline with a couple rosettes on top, short ruffles. It's hot pink." Instead of splurging on a limo, she and date Matt Castelhano will cycle there themselves. While her dress is short enough to avoid damage, Bress advises other prom-goers to "stay away from long flowy dresses that could get caught in your wheels."

Upon arrival, couples can lock up their Fujis and Schwinns at extra WABA-provided racks outside. Next, they'll stop in a photo booth for formal photos before walking into the Cat's Backstage area, festooned with streamers. There will be punch and a crowning of a "best dressed" prom queen and king. Even if those honors elude you, there's still a chance to win raffle prizes from Fabric Horse (Fabrichorse.com) and Chrome Bags (Chromebags.com). Or just revel in the tunes Bress spins. Guaranteed on her set list is Montell Jordan's "This Is How We Do It," for starters.

And since the party goes past curfew, remember to bring cycling lights for your ride home. More importantly, fellas: Don't forget your date's corsage. "I'm going to do that today," says Castelhano. Just pin it on after you cycle there.

Photo by Chris Combs/Express