View Full Version : So..... cycling
Having never fully recovered from having a large prop land on my awkwardly-positioned knee, I've had to ditch running in favour of cycling (40+ miles a day at the moment). Well, it's either that or see a doctor! :D
Does anyone else cycle much?
*wants to*
*doesn't have a cycle bike*
*leaves thread sad*
leowyatt
11-06-2009, 16:36
I'm trying to get a bike through the cycle2work scheme ;)
Good work. I try not to push these things too much (being a member of a local cycling organisation), but the cycle2work scheme is really good.
Our HR drag their feet too much, so I've bought a hybrid whilst I wait for them to make up their minds. Not sure whether a road bike is covered under the scheme though.
leowyatt
11-06-2009, 16:47
depending on the scheme they join you can buy whatever bike you like apart from unicycles :p
I've been pestering LeperousDust for advice, poor sod :p
hehe :D
Let me know how you get on, it'll be nice to hear of a business that actually does it.
leowyatt
11-06-2009, 16:52
Well it's currently with the directors to decide if they want to do it. I'll let you know how I get on though. Got my bike and gear picked out just need the voucher to go buy :D
What sort of price are reasonable road bikes nowadays? (racer type that is not road going mountain bikes)
Between £600 and £7000, depending on what you want. I have one somewhere in that range in my basket, just waiting for an excuse/bonus.
Wiggle have a nice sale on at the moment.
hmm bit expensive then... my last cycle cost me bout £65 :)
I'm trying to get a bike through the cycle2work scheme ;)
Ooh I wonder if I can do that ;)
hmm bit expensive then... my last cycle cost me bout £65 :)
Maybe Wiggle wasn't the best place to look, I'm sure you can get them cheeper. And £65 is a good price for a bike, as long as it doesn't try to kill you. ;)
leowyatt
11-06-2009, 18:33
Ooh I wonder if I can do that ;)
Doubt you'll get one from my work :p
Psymonkee
11-06-2009, 20:14
I have a lovely (when new) £500 quid Kona something or other in the garage waiting to be ridden - just need some motivation though :(
Got a decent mountain bike but it only sees a few trails a few times a month these days.
I got a hybrid bike through my bike to work scheme. I think it was about £400 on offer, carbon forks and 25mm tyres ent so bad, I hardly ever get overtaken! I've also got an ancient mountain bike that used to be the mutts nuts, its in need of some TLC now though.
We should have a BD bike meet. Something like This (http://www.osmountainmayhem.co.uk/).
I'm a fair weather biker, ride to work when the weather will let me get there dry :)
I really enjoy it, hope to do the London to Brighton next year so i've been upping my distance with that in mind but getting the time seems always a challenge
Used to cycle a lot when I was younger, I haven't touched my bike in over a year. Tried it out for the first time last week and felt like death after 4 miles. After 7 I couldn't move anymore, looks like I have a lot of work to do this summer :(
Yesterday, for the first time my clip-ons caused me to fall off.
Stopped by the band stand in Newbury, and forgot I had to unclip my feet from the bike. Nothing beats falling over for no apparent reason! :o Next time, unclip before stopping....
leowyatt
15-06-2009, 23:58
haha we have video footage of my boss falling off infront of the gates because he couldn't unclip his feet ;D
LeperousDust
16-06-2009, 12:40
Told you, you would enjoy clips for the first time leo :D Falling over at junctions because your mind wandered is hilarious, drivers wonder wtf you're doing ;D
leowyatt
16-06-2009, 14:08
I haven't fallen over yet as I'm still awaiting the green light but my boss was hilarious :D
I'm cycling to Strasbourg over the summer :)
Kell_ee001
16-06-2009, 22:13
I much prefer the thought of cycling to running ;D Don't really have anywhere to store a bike though and can't afford a decent one though which is a shame. I used to cycle absolutely everywhere when I was younger!
I'm cycling to Strasbourg over the summer :)
more info here :) (http://www.justgiving.com/rideforheroes2009/)
Treefrog
16-07-2009, 18:44
I much prefer the thought of cycling to running ;D Don't really have anywhere to store a bike though and can't afford a decent one though which is a shame. I used to cycle absolutely everywhere when I was younger!
Yep, you still have to run downhill ;)
Keep it indoors? Under the bed, in the bath, standing up in a corner, ...
Remember kids, always wear a helmet.
Yesteryday I (apparently) came off my bike whilst I was doing 30 down a hill. My helmet took muct of the impact, but it was about 20 minutes before I came to.
My head hurts today... :(
Ouch! Glad you're mostly ok.
Oouuch !
Lucky for you. I must admit, i've only just started wearing one due to more road cycling :o
I did a 50k ride for the nspcc yesterday, really enjoyed it :cool:
Rusty Shackleford
25-07-2009, 19:45
Remember kids, always wear a helmet.
Yesteryday I (apparently) came off my bike whilst I was doing 30 down a hill. My helmet took muct of the impact, but it was about 20 minutes before I came to.
My head hurts today... :(
So how did you come off?
Fairly new to cycling and don't have a helmet but, short of going over the bars (pretty unlikely?) I find it hard to imagine receiving an impact to my head when coming off.
LeperousDust
26-07-2009, 09:13
Remember kids, always wear a helmet.
Yesteryday I (apparently) came off my bike whilst I was doing 30 down a hill. My helmet took muct of the impact, but it was about 20 minutes before I came to.
My head hurts today... :(
I've done the same :) Although i came to almost instantly i'd forgotten what day and month it was, why the hell i was out in the first place and my mate was very very worried at the time since we were more than a fair few mile away from how. Walked it off thankfully and rode sensibly home, but yeah waking up to bent handlebars and a broken helmet was a little scary at the time! ;D
So how did you come off?
Fairly new to cycling and don't have a helmet but, short of going over the bars (pretty unlikely?) I find it hard to imagine receiving an impact to my head when coming off.
No idea, it's all a blank. From what the chaps tell me, it was a freshly-done road, in heavy rain, in a dusty area. I guess I touched my brakes and the back wheel slid away, but I don't know for sure. I didn't go over the handlebars though.
I caught my head on a flat end of a curb stone (we know this as a flake of the plastic from my helmet was wedged against it). I don't think it's that hard to imagine it, if you are going at any fast pace. If I wasn't wearing my helmet, I hate to think what would have happened. At best I'd be sat in hospital dribbling.
Treefrog
07-10-2009, 16:57
Just got some new forks for my GT - Rock Shox Judy J3s. And unlike the ones it came with these actually work! Chucking it into a corner and being confident that it will go where I want it to even at insane angles of lean is fun :D
They also have a useful little feature called 'lock-out' which turns them into (almost) rigid forks for on-road use and climbing steep hills.
I'm not a serious mountain biker or road rider but the more enjoyable it is to ride the more I ride it. Roads, cycle paths, towpaths, well-walked footpaths through fields and along old railway lines are all on my regular routes. And I've got a couple of gallons of elderberry wine brewing as we speak - foraged from alongside one of my regular runs :)
Good work! The Specialized I use for going to work (and touring) has lockable forks, they are very handy (if heavy), glad you are happy with them! Just make sure you maintain the forks properly, grit gets in and damages the moverment of the fork.
I'm not the most experienced with this kind of fork (I ride road in my spare time), but I hear the Rock Shox Judy J3 are universally loved.
One of my work colleagues participated in an event called "24 Hours of Hell in Paradise" this weekend.
The previous race I did a couple of weeks ago was a 6 hour format and it was fun to do (we finished 4th by the way), but this one is on a 24 hour format… That’s right, this is a cross country (XC) race that starts at 9 am on saturday and finishes at 9 am on sunday, the team with more laps wins. If 2 teams end up with the same number of laps they check the time it took them to finish and that is how they determine the winner. It will be painful and if the weather remains the same as this week most likely it will be raining back in the valley, which translates on a very soar Alex for next monday. For those of you that haven’t been to the Kualoa Ranch this is your chance. The gate is across from what they call the ’surf spot’ a bit after the main entrance (past the burnt church), once you are on that dirt road hang to the right and you will see all the racers/tents/trucks. We have a very good team and this time our chances to poduim are very high.
His team ended up 2nd, his first podium win in Hawaii. Some photos here: http://808.instaproofs.com/category.php?event=160774&id=402966
Kualoa Ranch, where the event took place, is where they filmed lots of Jurrasic Park.
Treefrog
07-10-2009, 18:48
I'm not the most experienced with this kind of fork (I ride road in my spare time), but I hear the Rock Shox Judy J3 are universally loved.
I know the Judys have a long pedigree and I can easily believe that others are as impressed with them as I am.
They were a bargain at £69 from Paddyland (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com) who had them in for about a week before selling out of them :D
And speaking of Paddyland, these (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=12607) are the tyres that I'm currently using in 1.5" size. Pump 'em up hard and they stick like poo to a blanket! ;)
One of my work colleagues participated in an event called "24 Hours of Hell in Paradise" this weekend.
I've done a few of these but never finished higher than about 60th! Teams of four (or two or one if you are insane) taking it in turns to do laps. Mountain Mayhem is the biggest one, great fun.
I ride to and from work at least 2 or 3 times a week (although am in a lazy patch this week and the weather hasn't convinced me it's worth the risk... rain is fine, strong winds BAD... scared of being blown under big heavy wheels).
It's around 8 miles each way, fairly undulating (i.e. ruddy great hill in the middle), and pretty good exercise.
Now it's dark out, I'm lit up to the eyeballs - 3 rear red lights (plus reflector), two forward lights (..plus reflector), hivis jacket, and lots of very clever black tape stuff all over the bike which reflects white :)
Bad luck on the crash, I wear my helmet at all times on the commute, but often won't bother when nipping into town to shop or pub...
Treefrog
28-11-2009, 17:24
I started wearing a cycle helmet full time for a couple of reasons:
1: A mate pointed out that at the speeds you tend to be travelling on a pushbike, a helmet makes a lot of sense due to less impact, etc from the lower speeds.
2: I was teaching the kids to ride and couldn't really tell them that they must wear helmets if I didn't wear one.
You don't say if your route is all lit or if there's any unlit sections sara. I've recently been using a single 1W LED front light on unlit roads and cycle paths and the light from it is superb! Worth considering if seeing rather than being seen is a priority at any point.
It's mostly lit by street lights, so no problem there really - I just try to be as well seen as possible! :)
On another lazy week as I did one thigh in on Sunday after a long dance class. Oops. Next week maybe... Think it might be time to crack out the winter tights though, brrrrr.
Flibster
02-12-2009, 01:49
I'm in the process of designing a bike. I can't use upright ones as it causes far too much pain, and I can't afford to buy one, so I'm going to build a recliner. :)
It's not easy. Last vehicle I designed was a carbon fibre monocoque based modern triumph three wheeler... This is quite a bit different. :D Tempted to make it a shaft driven trike for the hell of it. The less chain the better and it won't fall over. ;)
I'm about to crack out the old boneshaker again :D
Missed this thread first time round.
One of the bikes I scored on Freecycle is a Reynolds 531 framed racer and it's as light as a feather. It owes me all of about £35 for some handlebar wrap, pedals and a lick of paint but I'm too paranoid to leave it anywhere through fear of it being stolen so I never use it for regular journeys. So it won't be the one I use for getting from the station to work because I don't want to leave it at the station overnight and at weekends :(
So I might have to unchop my chopper for that duty and make something a little more er sensible that I can ride on the road.
A lad at work has some superb lights made by Blackburn which are very good value for money. Just got a MARS 3 rear light for £12.50 delivered and I'll probably buy a matching Voyager 3 front one from that range, since they have just superseded them and they are slashing the prices.
I'd hate to leave a bike at a station overnight. When I go cycling around the country, I lock my bike to my tent.
On the subject of lights, I recommend this light:
http://www.bestofferbuy.com/haiii-ssc-p7c-sxo-3mode-900lumen-led-bike-light-set-p-27282.html
Yes, they take ages to arrive but they've beaten the £300+ bike lights my co-cyclists use, every time. They last around 3 hours, and are perfect in unlit areas. You can really use the light in the town though.
I'd hate to leave a bike at a station overnight. When I go cycling around the country, I lock my bike to my tent.
On the subject of lights, I recommend this light:
http://www.bestofferbuy.com/haiii-ssc-p7c-sxo-3mode-900lumen-led-bike-light-set-p-27282.html
Yes, they take ages to arrive but they've beaten the £300+ bike lights my co-cyclists use, every time. They last around 3 hours, and are perfect in unlit areas. You can really use the light in the town though.
Nice, I paid £40 for some 10w Cateyes ages ago for night rides, technology has moved on somewhat!
Should be getting my new bike soon, insurance company have offered me a Giant hybrid but I don't like the look of it so I'm waiting to see if they'll accept £100 and give me a Specialized Allez 16 (I think). Won't be any time soon I can get a new mountain bike.....
Treefrog
03-12-2009, 17:02
I'm in the process of designing a bike. I can't use upright ones as it causes far too much pain, and I can't afford to buy one, so I'm going to build a recliner. :)
It's not easy. Last vehicle I designed was a carbon fibre monocoque based modern triumph three wheeler... This is quite a bit different. :D Tempted to make it a shaft driven trike for the hell of it. The less chain the better and it won't fall over. ;)
Hmm, you may end up with something quite a bit heavier than anticipated there Si, due to the way they alter the tubing thickness and diameter in relation to the stress at any point in the frame. That's why carbon fibre is proving such an ideal material for recumbent frames, because they can tailor it as a single unit rather than a welded collection of tubes. Two wheels front or rear btw? Just wondering which is easier - a diff or two wheels steering :)
One of the bikes I scored on Freecycle is a Reynolds 531 framed racer and it's as light as a feather. It owes me all of about £35 for some handlebar wrap, pedals and a lick of paint but I'm too paranoid to leave it anywhere through fear of it being stolen so I never use it for regular journeys. So it won't be the one I use for getting from the station to work because I don't want to leave it at the station overnight and at weekends :(
A lad at work has some superb lights made by Blackburn which are very good value for money. Just got a MARS 3 rear light for £12.50 delivered and I'll probably buy a matching Voyager 3 front one from that range, since they have just superseded them and they are slashing the prices.
Nice stuff, that 531 :)
Buy an old cheap mountain bike with rigid forks, stick some V-brakes, cheap road tyres and a comfy quick-release saddle on it? Nothing will ever be totally idiot-proof but something like that is not going to attract any covetous glances while chained up at a railway station :)
I've been looking at higher powered LED lights recently, the 1W is fine almost everywhere but a bit more never hurts ;)
I like the look of this (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=31361) but the price is way out of my league, no matter how tempting 5W/240 lumens is!
However, this (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=31361) is the business end of it and only needs a suitable power source wiring in, all bits available from Maplins for less than a tenner - including a 6V 4.5Ah sealed lead acid battery to make up a power pack which I can recharge from my standard 6V/12V car battery charger. Shining the 1W light onto a white painted surface from ~3' away is bright, but shining the 5W light onto the same surface from about 12' away totally eclipsed the patch of light thrown by the 1W light! It's that good!
I know I've mentioned Chain Reaction Cycles (aka Paddyland ;)) before and that is because I can wholeheartedly recommend them. Very good quality stock (ranges from "yes, it works", to "wow, this should be in the Tate Modern", free delivery in 24-48 hours usually, helpful staff and no problems with returns either personally or reported.
Internet shopping as it should be.
Flibster
03-12-2009, 18:31
Hmm, you may end up with something quite a bit heavier than anticipated there Si, due to the way they alter the tubing thickness and diameter in relation to the stress at any point in the frame. That's why carbon fibre is proving such an ideal material for recumbent frames, because they can tailor it as a single unit rather than a welded collection of tubes. Two wheels front or rear btw? Just wondering which is easier - a diff or two wheels steering :)
Current design relies on my experience of monocoques - it's only in rough sketches and some fairly complex maths at the moment. Was leaning towards fibreglass and aluminium/paper honeycomb monocoque with 2 wheels at the front. Steering is very easy to do - essentially copy and bolt on front end from a gokart. ;)
I could go with a tubular frame, but then I'd have to reply on my welding skills which are less than spectacular. Add to that welding aluminium... Well I'm useless at that. ;) I can still use it as strengthening members though.
Carbon fibre would be perfect, but I can only do wet lay stuff here so it's barely better than fibreglass, but much prettier I suppose. ;)
On the subject of lights, I recommend this light:
http://www.bestofferbuy.com/haiii-ssc-p7c-sxo-3mode-900lumen-led-bike-light-set-p-27282.html
Yes, they take ages to arrive but they've beaten the £300+ bike lights my co-cyclists use, every time. They last around 3 hours, and are perfect in unlit areas. You can really use the light in the town though.
They look pretty good for the money. I ended up going for a Fenix L2D and a lockblock to mount it on the handlebars. Not the cheapest option but it seemed to bridge the gap between cheaper end of the market plastic lights and the tougher more expensive metal ones, which is quite important to me as I'll bash it about I expect.
What does everyone use as a locking device? I have a thick braided lock thing with built in padlock that I got from the local motorbike shop. The only problem in my mind is I think you could eventually nibble through it with a pair of side cutters, so maybe I should consider something more solid.
What does everyone use as a locking device? I have a thick braided lock thing with built in padlock that I got from the local motorbike shop. The only problem in my mind is I think you could eventually nibble through it with a pair of side cutters, so maybe I should consider something more solid.
I have an Abus D-Lock, its 'Sold Secure' silver standard which is the requirement for my insurance. It was about £40. I figured almost anything can be broken into so as long as I can get the insurance for it I'm happy.
Getting my new bike delivered to work today, no more do I have to travel on the tube!!!
I can't remember the make of my lock, shall check when I get home.
I bought it for 2 reasons. 1, the standard (see above) and 2, it's long enough for me to lock my wheels too. My hybrid isn't the fanciest bike in the work, but the wheels are worth a few bob.
Treefrog
08-12-2009, 17:41
What does everyone use as a locking device? I have a thick braided lock thing with built in padlock that I got from the local motorbike shop. The only problem in my mind is I think you could eventually nibble through it with a pair of side cutters, so maybe I should consider something more solid.
That's a possibility I hadn't considered. But lock it up with that somewhere public and it's very unlikely that a thief would want to spend that much time being observed while trying to steal it.
I've got an 8mm case-hardened steel chain (http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/8mm-security-chain-1-2m-long) and a hefty padlock which I used to use on the motorcycle as well. A good visual deterrent too.
Girl's chain, Tf :p
I've got a 16mm chain immobilising my car. It's a bit impractical for a bicycle though, weighing in at about 15kg :D
Actually I've had an idea. If I have a look at what the facilities are like at the station I can buy a chain to suit. No point buying an utter beast if it's easier to cut through whatever I've chained it to...
Admiral Huddy
09-12-2009, 09:30
yay back cycling - On a gym bike though! Hoped on my pyush bike this weekend and didn't feel too bad. Still going to give it after christmas.
I'm looking for a new bike though.
Treefrog
17-12-2009, 16:37
Girl's chain, Tf :p
I've got a 16mm chain immobilising my car. It's a bit impractical for a bicycle though, weighing in at about 15kg :D
Hehe, practical girls chain ftw! ;D
Actually I've had an idea. If I have a look at what the facilities are like at the station I can buy a chain to suit. No point buying an utter beast if it's easier to cut through whatever I've chained it to...
Too true! I've heard of people locking bikes to washing line posts and being surprised in the morning to find that there's a washing line on the ground and the bike and chain has been lifted over the post and carried off!
Got an email earlier to say that my bike will be despatched, so should be with me tomorrow. First bike I've had since I was 14 (14 years ago) so should be fun. It's only a cheapy from Halfords, but it's a start and I won't be riding it too hard, if push comes to shove hopefully I can swap bits over for slightly better ones.
Good work!
As it's from Halfords, make sure you check the tightness of the handlebars, handlebar stem, brake levers, cables and callipers, wheel tightness and spokes. The gears will take some time to settle, so don't be surprised if you find yourself adjusting them occasionally.
Give the spokes a tap, too. If they don't go 'ting', take it to Halfords and get them to tighten the spoke(s) a bit. If they are loose, they may brake and it can cause problems with the wheel/brakes.
Oh, and wear a helmet. I'm proof that they save lives. :)
Well I'm assuming I'll have to build most of it as it's being shipped direct to me. But I'll check it all out anyway to be safe, I'll give Halfords that at least, for the first 13 weeks they look after it. Still need a helmet and gloves and something warm for my legs, but the helmet I need to go and try and few on to get the right size and fit.
I was thinking of getting some of those cycling tights for the cold weather and was wondering if they were worth it? Was going to wear them and some 3/4 length trousers over the top, but if they aren't, then I'll just stick to combats that can be pulled tight at the cuffs.
I've never tried them. I wear shorts, and carry overtrousers/overshoes when it gets cold. In fact, I don't mind the cold on my legs, it's when things start getting very wet and very cold. I can't stand cycling with the feeling that my feet are solid blocks of ice.
Plus, I'm afraid to wear tights. :D
Told my sister about them and she called me gay and asked if I was going to audition for the ballet next. A cushion thrown at her head stopped her though, that and threatening to stop her playing Rock Band. She soon saw the error of her ways.
Justice should always be swift!
Bike and most of the other stuff I ordered have turned up at work :D now have to wait till I get home before building it all up. The only thing that hasn't turned up is the lock, apparently that was put on the HDN van while the bike was sent with DHL and the lights/pump/multi tool were sent with RM :huh:
Will get some piccies up later after I get my haircut and cooked dinner for tomorrow :D
Nice to see they split orders up! This is my baby (for travel, that is, not for racing).
http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/9976/imag0019m.jpg
I regret the front forks, I had to spend a fortune getting a device that lets me put a pannier rack on the front. The disc brakes have nearly killed me a few times too.
She's a good bike, though. She got me down to the Isle of White with ease, even with all the camping gear.
Built it all up and had a part spare and couldn't figure where it went, so had some dinner came back to look at it and realised that it was the quick release for the front wheel, was wondering where the nuts where for it :(
All built up now, excuse the slightly crappy pics and the slightly messy room. Haven't cleaned up this evening yet:
http://www.wossi.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=3176&g2_serialNumber=1
http://www.wossi.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=3179&g2_serialNumber=1
As I say, only a Halfords special, but it'll do for now at least.
Nothing beats a fresh bike!: D Looks very nice, £10 says it's covered in poo after the first ride. :D
Careful on the brakes, they will be very very on/off when you first ride it. :)
Finally got a helmet and was wondering if you were supposed to look a bit daft while wearing it? It looks my head is almost twice the size :D
I'm afraid so! My Giro isn't too bad, it's nice and slim/light/airy, however there seems to be a price/looks thing going on. Mine was over £100, which is just silly. I hate the price thing, because I think it puts people off wearing them.
I'm proof that they save lives though, I'd be brown bread without one.
I may look slightly daft but it's not going to stop me wearing it though.
My replacement Fenix L2D turned up. Very impressed.
REALLY bright compared to any bike light at that price and very good quality but at £50 it's not a budget option. It does light up the whole road though :D
Took these shining into the garage. Nothing scientific, just all taken at the same F5.6@1/8 ISO1600 camera setting in daytime.
First shot is from a 4xAA Energizer Duo torch like this one (http://www.needbatteries.co.uk/energizer-duo-4aa-flashlight-135-p.asp), that I take camping:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/random/l2d-beams/energizer.JPG
Then the L2D on low, mid, high and turbo mode:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/random/l2d-beams/1-low.JPGhttp://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/random/l2d-beams/2-mid.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/random/l2d-beams/3-high.JPGhttp://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/random/l2d-beams/4-turbo.JPG
Tomsk on OcUK did some as well: http://forums.overclockers.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10067495&postcount=46
Very nice. :) I'm never sure how to photo the brightness of a bike light. :confused:
Well that's sort of misleading because it's daytime and it looks darker in the garage than it actually is, so all the lights are brighter if you 'see' them. A comparison is the best you can get. Basically set the camera so it takes an identical picture each time rather than adjusting itself.
On a more bikey subject I swapped my quick release skewers for some fixed ones so I don't have to chain it up so hard when I'm at the shops. Went into Evans and had a look at a Brompton for the commute. Working from home tomorrow and might have to visit the garage to knock up a temporary work hack out of the bits I've got down there. Should have enough to make a Frankenbike with welded scars and all :)
Flipping.......brrrrrrrrrrrrrr! Numb hands + broken bike bits = worst repair job ever.
http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/8474/imag0024c.jpg
Treefrog
12-02-2010, 14:42
Ouchies! Been there, done that too. Getting a patch to stick in torrential rain is not fun either.
It is just a puncture isn't it?
Yeap. Took a look at the repair job when I left this morning, glue everywhere and the patch was only just covering the hole. It was like I had done it blindfolded.
Rain I don't mind, it's when you can use your fingers properly. Took me ages to get the tire back on.
Treefrog
12-02-2010, 15:36
Speaking of tyres, a lad down my street was getting shot of 2 MTB wheels for a tenner. When I saw they had good condition 1.95" Swalbe City Jets (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=24629) on I had them like a shot! ;D
They're not as awesomely grippy or confidence inspiring when leant over as the 1.5" Maxxis Detonators (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=1260) I was running around on last summer - although that could be due to the road conditions, at least partially - but they do feel very, very nice to ride on.
A totally unquantifiable and subjective quality I know, but I can't really describe it any other way.
After cycling to me parents to help dad fit some fascia boards, I now have a new hatred of car drivers, even though I tend to drive everywhere myself. Some pillock on the way back decided to overtake just as I got to a roundabout to turn right :angry: Also noticed that nobody in a car actually indicates on roundabouts and turns making it great fun trying to cycle.
On another note on only my 3rd time on the bike I managed to cycle 2.5 miles in 15 minutes, most of that was slightly uphill. Very proud of myself by currently unable to move much.
:D
Cool, we should keep this thread running since I cycle a chunk of my commute regularly now :)
My racer is in for a new spoke. The wheel wasn't running 100% true so I decided to get a spoke wrench. I ended up making it worse so got the bike shop to do it properly and they did a good job. Unfortunately I think someone put a boot into the wheel while it was parked up and snapped a spoke at the hub, so it's back in to get that done. I'm on the temporary bike today which is an interesting ride, jacked up at the back and low at the front:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_5451.JPG
It was fun at first but it's a bit grating to live with. Might flip the bars back over tonight to make it a bit more comfortable. I do 5.74km in just over 15 minutes on the racer and a bit slower on this.
Briggykins
16-06-2010, 13:55
Gah, stupid bike. I've had the front wheel trued twice now by two different places, and each time it lasts about three rides (nice smooth rides of less than 10 miles) before it starts going wobbly again. Going to take it back to the shop again but don't see why it keeps doing this.
Tysonator
16-06-2010, 14:18
I love cycling and have been cycling since I was a small child. I try to cycle to work when I can and weather permitting really.
I currently own a Boardman Team hybrid cycle.
Well today I went out for my first ride in years! I'm still getting used to the thing but I think I covered in the region of 2-3miles total. As I get my confidence (and fitness) back I think that will quickly start racking up.
I'll get a bike computer so I can track what I am doing properly. Although I am very tempted to start looking at proper trikes, but these could only be used at the weekend.
I currently own a Boardman Team hybrid cycle.
Ive just got one of those through C2W, though havent ridden it yet as I dont want to get it dirty :evil: (that and the fact I smashed my big toe up at the weekend kite surfing)
Will stick a couple of pics up later on, will be fun as I havent ridden in ages (used to think nothing of doing 70/80 miles a day....but that was like, 18+ years ago!!)
Possibly a silly question. The brake handles, how level are they supposed to be with the handlebars? Or are they supposed to be slightly lower down if you get what I mean.
After riding my wrists were killing me and I think it's to do with that. Also, I've got a Halfords bike and was wondering if It's possible for me to change the seat as mine is not comfy at all :(
Well today I went out for my first ride in years! I'm still getting used to the thing but I think I covered in the region of 2-3miles total. As I get my confidence (and fitness) back I think that will quickly start racking up.
What are you riding Matt? Are you on two or three wheels at the moment?
Possibly a silly question. The brake handles, how level are they supposed to be with the handlebars? Or are they supposed to be slightly lower down if you get what I mean.
After riding my wrists were killing me and I think it's to do with that. Also, I've got a Halfords bike and was wondering if It's possible for me to change the seat as mine is not comfy at all :(
Put the brakes where they are comfortable. Slacken them off, sit on the bike and see where your hands naturally go to when you go to grab for the brake. That's a good place to start. Depends on your seated position really.
It's harder with drop bars because they are at the front and whether you've got aero levers etc. Some of the current ones have got great big grips on them and the levers point right up in the air.
Saddle wise, yes you can change it. Standard fitment. What's the problem, is it rubbing, too hard or the wrong shape? What sort of bike?
It's an Apollo and the seat feels a bit hard after a mile or so. Not sure if it's the seat or the fact I've not really ridden a bike since I was about 14.
LeperousDust
17-06-2010, 18:15
It's more likely you've not riden for ages. Get some lycra padding that makes anything instantly comfortable :)
It's an Apollo and the seat feels a bit hard after a mile or so. Not sure if it's the seat or the fact I've not really ridden a bike since I was about 14.
When I started using mine again it felt like I'd been kicked up the backside. I was thinking about getting a new saddle but after a week or so it stopped hurting.
Mine is a Selle Flite, which is like a narrow piece of wood :D
What are you riding Matt? Are you on two or three wheels at the moment?
Three wheels at the moment. I'm currently looking at a TW-BENTS frame from China/TW which will fold into the boot. The current trike isn't suited to longer riding but the other frame will be. They are a lot of cash though :(
It'll be a nice bit of kit though and you'll be pleased with it. I'm rarely dissatisfied with something I've spent a lot on :)
I got to ride a low slung trike round an oval dirt track, it looked a LOT like TW's Trident. I have to say I was surprised by how easy it was to get quite some speed out of it. Power sliding it was easy too :D
New spoke, all nice and tight, rode nicely yesterday. Hot dang, my racer is a lot faster and smoother than the Viscount :D
It's cycle to work day at work today and we've got a group photo session, so I'm taking it all the way in on the train for the photo. Gave the bike a rub down with WD40 to clean it up 'n everything :D
LeperousDust
22-06-2010, 14:37
I bet everyone on the train hated you for it :p I might be getting an old school peugeot tomorrow, he's asking £80 but i'll see what i can do. Looks sweet from the gumtree ad though, and i need something old school and fast for my (very short but still cba walking) route to work :)
http://is.gumtree.com/image/extrabig/14038362.jpg
£80 is a bit steep for that, unless the frame is something special.
Team rounders game last night which I was crap at, followed by beer, followed by 6k on the bike. Ugh. Trouble was, it turned into a novelty ride. Because it was dark I put the light on and spent most of the ride admiring how bright it was rather than paying attention, so ended up nearly crashing into the kerb at one point :D
Did you go to look at the bike Alex?
LeperousDust
26-06-2010, 14:37
Yeah took it for £40 as i thought it was a different model to what it really was. "Carbolite 103" doesn't cut it for me as a decent frame, but it's well built old stuff, and £40 will do me :) Something to play with other than my mtb :D
I'm going to have a go at riding the route to work tomorrow, I reckon it'll be about 15 miles using country lanes. If it's not too dreadful it'll save me fortunes on diesel :)
Brave distance on a not particularly cycle-friendly route. Be careful :)
Tysonator
20-07-2010, 22:32
strange how the bum adjusts !
Parents have both bought bikes, and having the usual 'issues' with the saddles.
Wish I could join them, but I don't see any way. :(
So. Every day I return to my bike it has been moved. Every morning I return to my lock, which I leave there overnight, it is in a different position to when I left it. I have put these both to the test by positioning them in a way that it would not move if it were knocked, you'd have to deliberately shift it out of position. There are more bike racks than bikes and only one bicycle is ever on one of the racks at a time so it's not other cyclists.
I can only conclude that there are so many scumbags in Croydon that every day somebody is having a go. I'm pretty glad I use the lock I do now. It was a pain in the butt before because it was too chunky to carry around easily but my bike is there, complete, every time I come back, unlike some of the others unfortunately.
LeperousDust
23-07-2010, 17:16
What lock have you got Jonny? Hope its a fairly nice chain? I just invested in a "lock" the other week for my mountain bike now i can't keep it indoors so its "chained" to the railings in the public part of the building. But i don't think its doing anywhere, considering its a 2m 10mm chain, locked with an 80 rolling barrel (no drilling) and sliding/rolling locking pin (no cutting) lock wrapped through both quick release wheels my suspension and chain all tightly to the railings. All's anyone can take are my bars and seat, and they can have them :p
My lock of my cheap bike is a little "oxford hercules" chain lock that helpfully quickly clips to my bike as well :)
It's a fairly chunky braid, a motorbike one, so it's adequate for all day use for my bike. Not quite as good as a chain or a D lock in my eyes though, because I'm sure you can nibble through a braid with a pair of sidecutters.
I am now the proud owner of my first cycle helmet. Went for a £50 Specialized one which seemed like a decent compromise between safety and cost. Fit is absolutely spot on, which is the priority, but it's slim and looks good too. I'm pleased :)
Treefrog
26-07-2010, 14:07
FAO Flibster:
Still considering designing and buiding a recumbent trike Si?
Check out http://www.atomiczombie.com/main.aspx?click=plans for some ideas, the Marauder is looking very tempting as a way to get rid of a load of old BMX and MTB bits ;)
I did see another recumbent bike made from fibreglass over a urethane foam core which looked very well done but sadly I can't remember where it was now :/
I saw a really nice racer on the train. Red frame with chrome forks, battered Rolls saddle. I really liked it and I think I am going to build the Viscount frame into something like this since it's got chrome forks. Currently collecting bits including brakes, drop bars and schtuff. Only annoyance is the 27" wheels which limits my rim and tyre choice, as the ones on there aren't very straight.
LeperousDust
29-07-2010, 14:24
Just get them straightened, shop round the corner from me charges a fiver (and tbh its not very difficult if you have the equipment). My mate just bought a gorgeous old british falcon bike, reynolds 531 steel frame porsche red, all recently been stripped down by the guy who owned it and rebuilt up with decent components, its so smooth yet retro, i'm so ****ing jealous of him right now! Although he did spend 5 times as much as me on the bike, so i guess i should keep telling myself this!
Yeah I probably will do that. One of them isn't round though; got a big dent in the rim and they are those textured chrome rims, which make the brakes rubbish.
LeperousDust
30-07-2010, 16:00
Ahhhhh i seee, ok well maybe your best bet is looking for another free/cheap bike and stealing wheels, or getting some nice second hand rims :) I picked up two lovely wheels with hubs cassette tyres and all for £90 for my mountain bike two years back, and they were easily worth double or more than that. They're still doing me very well today (although i have a suspicious i've snapped the axle in the rear, haven't quite got round to checking that still...)
Tysonator
31-07-2010, 10:14
A friend of mind I knew nearly 20 years ago had a Reynolds, and it cost them a packet !
I had a racer I purchased from Halfords when I was 15 and it cost me £199.00 for a 21 speed racer. It was so fast, howver my m8's Rennolds just handled so much smoother !
I still the racer, it is bit past it and battered now. So a few years back I purchase a Boardman Hybrid Team cycle. Again it is a fast bike and to get a Canadale with the same spec would have cost me an extra £350 !
Flibster
31-07-2010, 10:59
FAO Flibster:
Still considering designing and buiding a recumbent trike Si?
Check out http://www.atomiczombie.com/main.aspx?click=plans for some ideas, the Marauder is looking very tempting as a way to get rid of a load of old BMX and MTB bits ;)
I did see another recumbent bike made from fibreglass over a urethane foam core which looked very well done but sadly I can't remember where it was now :/
Cool. Thanks a lot. Love that overkill phat chopper. Very silly. :D
Could be useful getting some of those plans to take a look at and see how things are done.
daniel parker
11-08-2010, 13:13
Thanks Treefrog, I was also thinking about the same for the past few months and you did it.
Finally got a pic of the bike :)
Went for a little ride whilst in Norfolk and found THE best beach Ive been on in ages....so thought I would try and ride it....it didnt happen :evil: tiny road tyres and soft sand is fun, hard work and makes people laugh when you fall off ;D
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/iain.burns/boardman.jpg
LeperousDust
14-08-2010, 02:08
Just got back from camping, and had a session at kirroughtree, only the blue route as i'm getting my girl into it, or at least trying, so i'm trying not to scare her off too much. Still its what you make of it, pushing yourself hard on the blue route means you can still have lots of fun. The scenery is just something else. Love love love 7stanes cycling :)
Project progress: got some really light secondhand alloy drop bars and some retro Weinmann non-aero alloy drop brakes with suicide levers. I noticed that Wilkinson do black brake cables for about £1 each, which is a steal, so I'll be going there for the small bits.
Also got some secondhand Shimano 105 SLR brake levers for my racer and some brand new hoods. Cost me a bit more than I ought to have justified but they are 20 year old sex on a bent alloy bar, frankly, to replace the knackered levers I've got on there.
The new alloy drops angle out slightly which make the suicide levers point downwards, so I'm thinking because they are so light and my other ones on the racer are upright they will end up on the racer. It'll be a straight swap. I think the ones on the racer are steel anyway, so I'll shave another few grammes at the same time :)
I stuck the drop bars on the Viscount last night and rode it in today. Hard work with a round cog on the front :D
Got some other vintage alloy goodies on their way to complete the look. Just got to be careful not to let the budget run away.
I also trial fitted my 700c wheels in place of the 27" ones. The brakes reach which is a bonus. That really opens up my wheel choice when the 'right' set come up at the right price :)
LeperousDust
18-08-2010, 14:12
Just got to be careful not to let the budget run away.
Always a problem ;D
Sounds like you're doing a grand job jonny :)
I've been thinking about getting a bike recently, even more so since I started seeing a girl who is always out cycling with her dad in the lakes & yorks.
Things seem to have changed since I last had a bike - back when the Raleigh max was the bike to own.
Any tips on where to find the best bike now?
LeperousDust
18-08-2010, 21:06
Was the raleigh max ever the bike to have? :p
LeperousDust
18-08-2010, 21:14
Was the raleigh max ever the bike to have? :p
haha, my mates all had them and we thought they were ace :P
but I was looking around the other day on a random website and couldn't even see a Raleigh listed!?
Most of what I've seen seems to suggest that one of the best options would be one of these... http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/hardrock-disc-2010-mountain-bike-ec019400
LeperousDust
19-08-2010, 07:56
Yeah that's pretty much standard really :) Make sure you get good use out of it though, i see so many "unused" mountain bikes cycled round by people buying them on work schemes or because they think they'll use it. Waste of money if you won't get a ssecond hand commuter if so.
I'd suggest a second hand mountain bike but its a minefield really to someone new, and i'm not about to start looking for you :p
I do suggest going to your local bike shop talking to them and at least trying on different bikes for size guides though :)
Any tips on where to find the best bike now?
Freecycle ;D
Seriously though, I see a lot of people spend big money on their bikes on other forums and I know they are taking it a bit too seriously and not having the fun/£ that it deserves. Best thing to do in my opinion is to think about what you want out of it and maybe get a cheapy second hand one to see if that's what you want. Then you're not £600 out of pocket when you decide you wanted a road bike rather than a mountain bike.
Back in my project log I got some cables from Wilkinsons last night and fitted up the drop brakes with suicide bars. Old school or what! Rode it in this morning in one gear so I can pick a ratio for my single speed. Looks like the cogs at the back are on a freewheel which makes the swap a lot easier :)
Went down to the garage and took some pics for the project logs...
The Raleigh isn't looking much different:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6071.JPG
In fact I've changed nothing since I first rebuilt it apart from a few tweaks. I came off the RSW and hurt my wrists so I've got the handlebars cranked up so I can hold the sides. I know it's all a bit Chris what's-hisface but it turns out I really like this riding position so they are staying in that position and only look a bit strange because of the white brake hoods. Come to them in a minute...
New tyres all round. I went for these Michelin Pro 3's at extravagant expense but they are excellent, slick, loads of grip and shaved over 300g in weight:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6075.JPG
I mentioned the brakes. Well I've never been happy with the manky white hoods, the blue anodised finish and one of the lever mechs is missing the plastic piece on the front. With the all-black look they really stick out like a sore thumb:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6076.JPG
I managed to score some Shimano 105 SLR aero levers in fab condition and bought some new black hoods:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6077.JPG
For the price of these I could have actualy just bought some brand new Tektro aero levers, but these SLR's really are the nuts. They have cast alloy bodies with proper bearings and the movement is solid and smooth. Can't wait to fit them up with some black cables, a long awaited well deserved upgrade for this bike :)
Onto the Viscount. This has really turned into a late 70's period build. Retro frames are all the rage in London right now, so anything vintage alloy, Shimano or Campagnolo is going for silly money on eBay. Luckily, all the sought-after stuff is 80's and early 90's, which leaves me to scoop up the cool looking late 70's bargains for my bike :D
The plan was to keep the frame and fork, which are pretty, and work around that. I was thinking of swapping the wheels because they aren't very straight, handlebars to alloy drops, brakes to bare alloy drops, single speed, alloy seat post and new saddle.
It's sort of gone to plan apart from a few things. This is what it's looking like so far:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6066.JPG
Alloy seat post is hiding under there. Really light unknown-make alloy drop bars are cranked up slightly with Weinmann bare alloy drop brakes and suicide bars:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6067.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6069.JPG
My commute is uphill all the way in and downhill all the way home. I tried it in one gear but couldn't do it, then I couldn't get the freewheel to come undone, so chose to keep the 5 gears at the back! It's a 5-speed screw-on freewheel, so not like the modern cassette setups:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6070.JPG
I've already got rid of the smaller ratio at the front to tidy things up and I'm going to lose the nasty black plastic derailleur that's been put on at some point and swap on this nice old Huret one I got cheap on eBay. It's technically not as good as a Campag or a Shimano but it'll look right, do the job and cost 99p rather than £30+ for the more popular brands:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6081.JPG
Those of you with the better eyes may have spotted I've got some toeclips on the Raleigh. I'm keeping my eye out for some alloy pedals that can take toeclips and I've just been trying them out on the other bike to see whether I get on with them...
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6072.JPG
Yeah, I know. Metal toeclips with no straps. Scene. I've been hanging around with the fixie brigade in central London too much etc ;D
I do have straps:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6078.JPG
I don't think I'm liking toeclips to be honest. They don't fit well and are uncomfortable so I might not use them after all.
And that just leaves the saddle and some bar tape to find. I'd quite like brown leather all round, but to be honest it's going to be a matter of what comes up at the right price. I was tempted to go for a Charge Spoon saddle and matching bar tape in brown, but I've got to be careful not to let the budget run away. So far it owes me less than £40 with a bit of spannering and grease and that's it. Expensive saddles and fashionable bar tape could nearly double that :shocked:
I got bored and put the Huret derailleur on. Never changed one before so it was a bit of a faff but it's on and it works. Set the chain length, limits top and bottom, took it out for a test ride and it's ready to roll.
Love the Shimano 105 stuff :)
Back (a long time ago) when I was a wee lad of 14/15 I used to save all my money up for thatstuff.....helping out in the workshop at Charlie Coles in Dunstable helped....aah the days of building up a rim from scratch :evil:
I did Critical Mass on Friday night and rode the Viscount back to Kent from St. Pauls in central London. Have to say it rides very nicely now, despite losing a rear brake block on the journey. They needed replacing anyway...
Aw, these were too pretty to not have...
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/3015/pedals.jpg
I *think* it's just a saddle needed to complete the project now ;D
LeperousDust
01-09-2010, 14:52
I'm still lovin' this jonny :)
Wasn't sure if anyone was actually following this any more ;D
I am, massively. I sooo want an old racer now...
Things seem to have changed since I last had a bike - back when the Raleigh max was the bike to own.
You know what, it's all got a bit overly complicated. There was a day when you could go buy a bit for your bike and it would just bolt on. Now there are umpteen different sizes for everything :D
Did the Skyride in London today.
Was quite fun, if a little slow. A bit like an organised Critical Mass for kids :D
Took a few detours and saw a bit of the back of the city, saw someone from work, had some lunch, joined in again and headed home before the rush.
Well worth doing next time if anyone is up for it. Some serious bike pr0n rolling around as well ;).
Shame I didn't have the camera :(
What is it they say, when the cat is away the mice will play?
So I'm working in the living room. I've fitted my Shimano 105 SLR brake levers and re-wrapped the handlebars in red. I'm not 100% sure I like them and I think I might go back to black, what do you think?
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6094.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_6095.JPG
And my god, are Forello/Silva stingy with their handlebar wrap length or what? I had to unwrap them twice to get them to reach :D
LeperousDust
13-09-2010, 15:34
They look sweet man, dont worry about them :)
I've got bright yellow ones, since im a bit of an extrovert at times ;D To match the yellow tyres and seat ;)
Pedals are on with the Viscount with some chrome toeclips and I do have to say I quite like them! They are a little narrow but my commute isn't long enough for it to bother me. I also borrowed the black handlebar wrap off my Raleigh. Just need that ideal saddle now. Pics:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6105.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6106.JPG
Ignore this one, it's me trying to be arty and failing:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6107.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6108.JPG
Double annoyance, I went down this morning to find it's got a puncture. No doubt from the road laying works that remain unfinished after 6 weeks now. Sadly, I'm surprised I haven't had a puncture from it already.
LeperousDust
15-09-2010, 10:28
I had a terrifying front blow out yesterday, on a similar note. After having my rear wheel pinch flatted. Yesterday was not good for me in relation to riding a bike...
I can't believe this. Went to go to work (late) and my other bike has got a busted spoke in the back wheel. Poxy roadworks. I'm really annoyed and have complained to the council for compensation.
I've been pining for a Raleigh Twenty recently, all stripped down, smoothed and running some period speed equipment. I chopped up another bike and scratch built this frame tonight:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/shopper/IMG_6120.JPG
I've been pining for a Raleigh Twenty recently, all stripped down, smoothed and running some period speed equipment. I chopped up another bike and scratch built this frame tonight
That is COOL as **** :evil: :)
Cheers Iain :D
Finished it off this evening. First stripped it all naked:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/shopper/IMG_6125.JPG
Then made a makeshift "spraybooth" on the floor lol:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/shopper/IMG_6127.JPG
And a bit of paint drying, bearing repacking and spannering later, voila:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/shopper/IMG_6134.JPG
I had some old white pedals somewhere but I lost them almost immediately after I found them, so I nicked the toeclip pedals off my Viscount. I think they might have to stay! The saddle is an eBay cheapy but turns out to be dead comfy on this bike. Just need to add a couple of links to the chain so I can get the rear wheel right to the back of the dropouts. I'm going to ride this to work on Monday :)
And now I present to you last week's top score: the Yellow Peril ;D
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/yellow_peril/IMG_6135.JPG
A chap at work wanted a new mountain bike and his wife wouldn't let him have a new bike until he got rid of one. He'd been pestering me for ages about it and I finally backed down and agreed to take it last Thursday. Monday morning there was a brand new bike in the bike shed at work and this one at my house ;D
Under the ridiculously thick yellow paint it's a 1979-1981 Peugeot with 40-spoke 27" wheels and a single speed flip-flop hub at the back, so I can run single or fixed:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/yellow_peril/IMG_6136.JPG
Why is it called the Yellow Peril? Well, aside from the very keen steering geometry it seems to have, at some point a previous owner decided it would be a great idea to paint the rims yellow as well. So that meant no brakes, basically. Coupled with a very distorted tyre, brakes round the wrong way and very low front bars it was quite a mission to ride. I've sorted all that, got some new tyres on their way and hoiked the bars up a bit:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/yellow_peril/IMG_6137.JPG
It rides really nicely. I have to say I do like single speed :)
I also scored a cheap, very old, battered Brooks saddle for the Viscount. Slathered on loads of clear polish top and bottom and gave it a shine, here's what it looks like:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6145.JPG
They say these can be uncomfortable but I quite like it :)
I need to buy a bike from you, methinks! :D
I borrowed my girlfriend's bike today when popping into town, as I'm yet to ship my bike over. Coaster brakes are the worst inventions ever! I was zipping along, thinking that if the chain comes off (which still happens these days), I'm toast! Who invented these terrible things!
LeperousDust
29-09-2010, 17:02
Jonny you do score some beauts you ********. Thats a decent single speed. I do and don't want a single speed. I want one for sheer love of their simplicity. But Edinburgh is far from flat, and i live over the other side of a massive hill. I've tried cycling in the same gear and although i can do it. It would fast **** me off... Either way the frame on that is probably something gorgeous :)
Interestingly it's easier to get up hills with a single-speed than it is with a geared bike in the same gear. I couldn't work it out at first when someone told me, but it is definitely easier. I can only guess that the derailleur and the chain angle saps a lot more energy than you think it does. I've been told that running fixed is even more efficient again, because there's no lash from the freewheel or anything.
LeperousDust
30-09-2010, 22:50
No seriously thats what people with fixed and single speed tell you because theyre delusional, it cant possibly be easier. But you generally do get on with it! Im sure i'd manage but im trying to work out why id really want one except that theyre cool...
I've just got a bit carried away on eBay. Got some NOS alloy 36H and 40H (rare as wotsits) 700c rims on their way which I can lace up to the hubs on the Yellow Peril, 700x20c Michelin tan-wall tyres and an alloy seatpost to replace the cracked chrome one. This just got WAY too expensive and out of hand :D
I think, more sensibly, I wanted 27" rims so I could use the same tyres. The rims need replacing anyway because they aren't straight and the braking surface is knackered, but this way they can outlive the bike because they will fit everything else. Plus I get to use ultra narrow tyres that you can't get for 27" wheels :evil:
LeperousDust
03-10-2010, 01:31
I have 23c tyres and i can feel evvvvverything ;D Still uber jealous. But i still keep telling myself i REALLY don't need a bike that isn't dirt cheap. Its just too easy to get carried away though...!
I know. The wheels and tyres now owe me the best part of £100. I wasn't intending for that to happen :shocked:
I took a ride out in London shopping with the wheel on the fixed gear for the first time. It's pretty strange to ride. The bit I can't explain is why the bike doesn't slow down when you stop pedalling. Normally if you want to shave off a tiny amount of speed you just coast, but I felt myself grabbing for the brake quite a lot because it didn't slow by itself.
LeperousDust
03-10-2010, 14:48
Fixed is just wrong man! I can understand single, and kinda want that myself. But fixed is silly/dangerous! ;D
£100 for just rims and tyres is steep. I've not even paid anything like that for my mtb! Worst was £90 for front and rear mavic 717 disc rims with hope pro II hubs and some nice maxxiss tyres. Although i've since cracked the rear hub me thinks :(
I thought it was quite reasonable! Road rims can get very expensive with entry level cheapies at about £20 each, then tyres can be quite a bit if you want performance and puncture resistance. I had to find a 40-hole rim which are basically non-existant but a NOS at £30 didn't seem too bad. Matched it with a NOS Mavic that looks like it might have the same profile. Like I said, they are more of an investment, so won't go with the bike if I sell it. Plus there will be the luurve of lacing them up myself, which I'm dead excited about [getting wrong] ;D
I've seen sense. The rims and tyres are going back. The rims are too contemporary looking for the bike, being anodised aluminium, and I couldn't get a matched pair. I do need new rims, but I think I'm going to try and find some vintage ones so they look right.
LeperousDust
06-10-2010, 16:44
:p
You were right though, £100 for rims and tyres is too steep for an old hack :D
LeperousDust
06-10-2010, 18:53
I'm a tight fisted ******* like yourself at times, i think were fairly similar except you have a lot more hands on experience with the oily bits of a car... It's funny how quickly you can get carried away with "projects" and its always nice to have an outside perspective telling you to calm down! I know i need that at times. I find i can be too passionate about things ;D
Bah I keep coming in here reading and it's making me very green! I haven't been able to get on my bike for the last three months due back/hip issues, and I really miss not having my daily ride, not only for the fitness side but also the convenience of not having to worry about parking places etc...
but on the plus side I now have a freecycled wire basket for the front... can't wait to get back on it! I'm also keeping an eye out for any cool bike up for grabs on freecycle.. but it seems they are all in Jonny's group!
I usually have to ask for them Lozza. Ask for old junk bikes and you'll be surprised what turns up. They normally need a new set of tyres and bit of an oil.
Pox. I tried to swap the pedals on the Yellow Peril today. The left hand pedal (the one with the left handed thread) needed some serious cranking and pulled out a lot of the thread from the crank with it. The new pedal went on and tightened up ok though, so all not lost. The right hand pedal was another story and simply wouldn't budge. I'm left with a rounded off pedal axle and a mangled 17mm spanner which I'm not too happy about. I'll have to cut that pedal off and use a Stilson if I want to use the new pedals :(
I accidently put a bid in on a flip-flop hub on eBay and surprisingly won it at a sensible price. Let the wheel building begin :)
http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/3170/flipflop.jpg
So I just need to find a pair of narrow classic-looking polished alloy rims with 36 holes and I'm good to go.
I've sorted out what I want to do with my fixed wheels. The flip-flop hub is an oldie looking chrome item and wouldn't have matched the large flange alloy front hub on the Yellow Peril. It will, however, look absolutely spot on on my Viscount which has a matching chrome front hub and good chrome rims. So the Viscount is going fixed/freewheel.
I've wanted to build some slightly more special wheels for some time and I think if I'm going to do it I'll do it properly with new everything. I've nabbed a pair of matching alloy 32H hubs:
http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/6316/hub0.jpg
And I'm going for some very sexy polished Velo Orange rims:
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/8620/vopbp700crim1.jpg
I'll lace those up with stainless spokes and wrap them in some 700x20c tanwalls and it should look pretty special on any of my bikes but keep that classic look.
I relaced the chrome flip-flop hub into the Viscount chrome rim last night. Hahaha, it's not even close :D
I've done two things wrong. My local bike shop doesn't have any spokes that long so I had to reuse the old ones. Basically, when I followed the lacing guide I found they all stuck out and wouldn't nip up enough because it had originally been laced with a strange pattern, so I had to redo it. It's very difficult to get a wheel initially true with old spokes and tight nipples. Second mistake I made was winding them all up the same amount assuming it would pull the wheel somewhere close to being true. Wrong :D
So do yourselves a favour and start with new spokes :D
My local bike shop were good though. Since they didn't have the spokes they managed to get the 5-speed freewheel off the old hub so I could get the spokes off it and they gave me a chrome 18T fixed sprocket for nothing :)
I relaced a wheel last night. Chrome flip-flop hub into chrome 27" rim. Hahaha, it wasn't even close :D
I've done two things wrong. My local bike shop doesn't have any spokes that long so I had to reuse the old ones. Basically, when I followed the lacing guide I found they all stuck out and wouldn't nip up enough because it had originally been laced with a strange pattern, so I had to redo it. It's very difficult to get a wheel initially true with old spokes and tight nipples. Second mistake I made was winding them all up the same amount assuming it would pull the wheel somewhere close to being true. Wrong :D
So do yourselves a favour and start with new spokes :D
My local bike shop were good though. Since they didn't have the spokes they managed to get the 5-speed freewheel off the old hub so I could get the spokes off it and they gave me a chrome 18T fixed sprocket for nothing :)
I persevered with the wheel today and it's straighter and truer running now than it's ever been before! I just built my first wheel :D
I had to make up a little spacer out of some tube to go behind the sprocket to get the chain line straight but I have now officially built my first fixie. I've taken it round the block and it rides nice, just about to go out on it for the night. Gad damn is it hard to get your feet in toeclips when they're moving or what :p
I feel like a Viscount week next week if it doesn't snow again over the weekend. Made a few modifications:
http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/1074/img6495.jpg
http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/8859/img6496m.jpg
Lost the mudguards and if you look closely....
http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/1467/img6499h.jpg
The single speed fixed :cool:
Havent had the Boardman out for a while, as Ive made it my 'good' bike, so started to look for an oldskool mountain bike...and this came up :)
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/iain.burns/Marin.jpg
Its a Marin Quake 9.0 and cost silly money when new, with the frame designed by a F1 engineer and made out of sheet metal - muchos cool :evil: going to use it as a bit of a hack, then slowly bring it up to date with some new forks and a disc setup, though I must admit, im looking for another frame as this is so original!!
I looked that thing up for a bit more background. What a mad bit of machinery! I think it would make quite a good ride with contemporary running gear on it. Like you said though, depends how original you want to keep it if it's complete and good.
I think it would make quite a good ride with contemporary running gear on it.
Took the Marin out for a proper ride....im going to keep it 'as is' I think, its more capable than I am ;D Had really wanted to go to a longer travel fork and discs, but having stuck this on its nose when I had to grab a load of brake....I dont think it needs them!!
Time to explore its limits over the coming months :evil:
This entered service today:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/richmond_mixte/IMG_6705.JPG
It's the girl's 1980 Raleigh Richmond mixte in Reynolds 531 tubing. I've given it an overhaul with the wheels off my Viscount and a 5-speed freewheel. It's not a bad little bike; very light. It could do with a set of drop bars in my opinion, and the centre pull brakes really highlight the dent in the wheel, so I'll have to do something about that.
The Viscount is currently in full South London combat mode. Trying the bars down and saddle forwards for a bit of serious purchase on those pedals:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6690.JPG
Packing a Fenix L2D up front for plenty of light or strobe the whole road out:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6691.JPG
New rims are the 32 spoke 700c Velo Orange with fixed gear at the back (52/18) and 700x20 tyres:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/Viscount/IMG_6695.JPG
I still think they look a bit skinny, so might change them for some 25's at some point. And why do Raleigh insist on using those spazzy blue valve caps?
Well, not much has been going on in the bike world. I brought the RSW home to work on the Sturmey Archer because it's not dropping into third, but I haven't got around to doing it yet. I've put some miles on the Viscount (which currently has a puncture) and even more miles on the Raleigh, which is due a rebuild because the winter has taken its toll on the poor thing. The girl still hasn't ridden hers and I've got some plans to re-do the back wheel for it with a different hub. It's currently got my flip-flop spaced out with a 5-speed freewheel on it. Not ideal and it's a bit wide for the frame.
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/shopper/IMG_6134.JPG
The Twenty got a bit of a beating at Critical Mass. First the brake cable broke and I nearly ended up crashing :o ;D, then the crank worked loose and mashed up the axle in the bottom bracket.
It's got a very soft axle in the bottom bracket and the cotter pins have a habit of working loose. I had to cycle it quite some distance to get home and it's mangled it up a bit. I've tried shimming the cotter pins and everything but it's basically worn past the point of no return.
Tonight I fixed it back up with a few modifications/improvements. New brake cable. Lost the little ferrule thing, so I modified a Stomberg 94 carburettor jet to fit. I shamfered the axle and inside of the crank with the mind to welding it on, but I had the idea of putting the cotter pin in round the wrong way and really hammering it in. Seems to have worked, but it's ready to weld if I need to. The main mod tonight though is I've taken off the 18-tooth freewheel and replaced it with a 13 tooth fixed cog, so now it has some sensible gearing and it's fixie as I orginally wanted it :D
Havent had the Boardman out for a while, as Ive made it my 'good' bike, so started to look for an oldskool mountain bike...and this came up :)
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/iain.burns/Marin.jpg
Its a Marin Quake 9.0 and cost silly money when new, with the frame designed by a F1 engineer and made out of sheet metal - muchos cool :evil: going to use it as a bit of a hack, then slowly bring it up to date with some new forks and a disc setup, though I must admit, im looking for another frame as this is so original!!
I saw someone on one of these yesterday.
It looks absolutely mad as a box of frogs going down the road! You'd never know it was over a decade old :D
Oh god, I just accidentally won some really retro looking rims on eBay. Now I'm going to have to build another bike...
http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/9850/98135864.jpg (http://img695.imageshack.us/i/98135864.jpg/)
I saw someone on one of these yesterday.
It looks absolutely mad as a box of frogs going down the road! You'd never know it was over a decade old :D
For an 'old' bike they ride brilliant....and have a very distinctive look....love it :)
Will be selling the Boardman come June/July as im just not using it
Bah. Tried to rebuild the wheels on my Raleigh at the weekend but found I'd got completely the wrong length spokes :D
No matter, because they were just right for the rear wheel on my Viscount, so that has a nicely rebuilt shiny 27" wheel with nice shiny stainless spokes. They were slightly too short for the front wheel, so I've ordered some the right length so I can have matching front and back.
No sign of the new rims yet, but they are coming from France. Hoping I've not been scammed...
Ooops - I appear to have somehow purchased a errr BMX ;)
A calculated purchase on E-Bay, very poor description and 40 minutes up the road, turns out its a Super Tuff Burner so Skyway Mags and a full CroMo frame / fork combo (but stripped of its gold finish).
Have purchased a few items tyres, tubes, grips (as the tyres were shot) and its now in its total component parts ready to be cleaned and assembled.
(the calculated purchase now showing a profit if I sell each part individually, original skyways with alloy hubs still hit £60+)
Also watched a Marin Quake (with some dubious upgrades) go for more than my total original one cost me when I bought it, so the market is still there ;)
camerajuan
08-05-2011, 19:08
Now I've figured this out, my new wheels.
http://i1142.photobucket.com/albums/n617/camerajuan/DSCF1155.jpg
http://i1142.photobucket.com/albums/n617/camerajuan/DSCF1156.jpg
Scott Yecora Mountain Bike
17.5 inch frame
21 speed
Front Suspension
Raw as they come. The seller gave me a front light for free - which was nice. Bought some mudguards & blue alloy pedals to make it look a bit more swish.
£70. Couldn't believe it!
I think that's a £30 front light :D
I've bought a bike!!!
http://www.evanscycles.com/product_image/image/7c2/90e/fb2/56787/large/kona-lanai-deluxe-2011-mountain-bike.jpg
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/kona/lanai-deluxe-2011-mountain-bike-ec026529?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=froogle&utm_campaign=froogle
It is yet to arrive (ordered last Friday) but I got the email on Monday night that it was entering the assembly & testing phase so *fingers crossed* it'll get delivered on friday/saturday!
Can't wait! Already got involved in a bike trip with some of the guys from work which coincidentally happens to be on my birthday :eek:
Should be arriving soon then :cool:
I knocked this up on Friday:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/stuff/handlebarprop1.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/stuff/handlebarprop2.JPG
Should help steady the bike when I'm working on it. Otherwise it wobbles about all over the place and sits on the brake cables, which partially applies the brake. Annoying when trying to true wheels!
Cycling in has absolutely shagged me this week :D
Been on the single-speed for the last few weeks because my geared bike is out of action while I give it a rebuild. I was going to use the time to build up some strength for the London to Brighton ride, but I've been warned that Ditchling Beacon will be impossible with my gearing. So I've got to get the other bike built back up and get some miles on it to bed the brakes in, work out any teething troubles and true the wheels after the rebuild. Also decided to replace my tyres. Two lots of significant roadworks has left them shredded and they seem to be prone to punctures.
I may as well tear the whole bike down now and repaint it while I'm at it. Will be returning the cut down handlebars to drops again and returning everything to black, for the stealth look.
I really need to buy myself a bike.
I've put a wanted out on Freecycle for a junk mountain bike. I've been roped into the Isle of Wight challenge and the cycling part is off road. I think even with knobblies it might be asking a bit too much from my slender racing bike forks. Tempting though :D
Done 35.3 miles this month, hard work on mtb
Crikey, I just had a count up and I do about 160 miles a month :shocked:
No wonder my legs hurt ;D
Picking up two bikes over the weekend. One is a mountain bike, the other is I'm not sure what yet :)
camerajuan
04-06-2011, 15:31
I'm sitting on 80-90 miles a month right now. 2 more shifts a week & I'll edge towards 200 miles a month if I'm lucky.
Bigger wage too!
Another 10.4 miles polished off this afternoon on bike, 45.7 miles in 4 days, chill out day tomorrow
http://k.min.us/jcJ03s.JPG
http://k.min.us/j7Ngk.JPG
:woot:
Not done that since I was a 12, ruined that back wheel.
Steed
http://k.min.us/jcNNhG.JPG
Semi slick on mtb = fun but those specialized armadilloshave lasted me nearly 3 years so cant complain
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/iain.burns/boardman.jpg
Just in case anyone is interested (and it saves me the hassle of E-Bay) this will very soon be up for sale.....im guessing Ive done less than 50 miles on it, as the Marin gets used a hell of a lot more
Im 6'1 if it helps with the frame size, bike is currently in Dunstable
Posted this on OcUK:
Tonight's effort. Extra pic quality for 4:23am on a Saturday night, listening to Le Mans :D
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_7016.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/racer/IMG_7017.JPG
Bit of a mini rebuild: new jockey wheels in the derailleur with ball bearings, clean and repack of all the bearings including bb, wheel rebuild with stainless double butted spokes, new black Michelin Pro 3's and tubes, new cables, drop bars with black wraps, polished stem, polished seatpost.
Gone with all the bright red stuff, in with stealth black kit. Should suitably disappear into the background in this guise, which is the intention. Only giveaway is the 531 sticker near the bb.
She was getting a bit tired and needed the rebuild. Now it's ready for some mileage. Just need to put a few miles on next week so I can give the wheels a final tweak before L2B next weekend.
LeperousDust
11-09-2011, 02:34
Right, so it was a while back that my road bike was stolen (hilarious since the lock they broke was worth more than the bike) Anyway that's another story since i've seen it around town since and found the guy on facebook after seeing it in a local advert on gumtree (for £120!) but it's just not worth the hassle.
I'm now seriously debating dropping a serious wad of cash on a new (second hand) road bike for probably around £300 tomorrow just for playing about commuting and everything else inbetween. It's a 2003 beautiful litespeed frame with 105's all over and just generally well looked after, something that if kept well would last a lifetime i hope. I hope its an investment basically!
Albeit i'll definitely not be leaving it in the same places i left it overnight (for days sometimes) previously. But the point of a cheap bike was not to really worry. This would be very much different...
What lock was it out of interest, and how did they break it?
LeperousDust
11-09-2011, 20:15
Oxford chain lock, and most likely just cut, but they either took it with them or it was cleaned up by cleaners, i didn't actually know the bike was "stolen" for about a week because i'd left (abandoned) it outside for a while... I blamed the council first, until i saw it on sale!
Anyway, it's done £420 a little more (understatement!) than i really bargained for but still a good deal no doubt and will last a lifetime:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/270809524336?ssPageName=STRK:MESINDXX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1436.l2649&autorefresh=true#ht_1440wt_889
I'm going to try and talk you into spending more money to make sure this one doesn't get stolen. Let me recommend these chains:
http://www.almax-security-chains.co.uk/ofcmje75/All-Products/c-1-73/
They might be expensive but they are peace of mind and you'll not regret buying it.
LeperousDust
12-09-2011, 23:46
It's fine i understand security mate, i have a 2m 12mm chain (http://www.toolstation.com/shop/Safety+Security/Security+Cables+Chains/Hardened+Hex+Link+Security+Chain+12mm+x+20m/d200/sd2949/p61192) secured by an Anti Drill/Saw Armoured 80 mill lock (http://www.toolstation.com/shop/Safety+Security/Padlocks/Armoured+Shutter+Lock+80+mm/d200/sd2540/p40002) for my mountain bike, which is worth a pretty penny. But when it came to a road bike worth nothing, then i doubt it was worth the money, i wasn't sad to see it go, nor did i really bother to chase it up with the police wasn't worth the time or money.
For a bike it sensible to spend a minimum of 10% realistically on a lock for "insurance" ish i'd say, although the chain and lock above are actually less than 10% of my MTB bike but adequate i'd say.
A road bike worth 10x more than my last will clearly deserve a better chain, don't worry, i will just hate lugging round something that weighs almost as much as my bike i'm sure... The oxford lock was maybe 9mm at best i think, and tbh it was a deterrant for a cheap bike not a theft proof solution, i still can't believe someone went to the trouble of cutting a chain that big (compared to the **** out there) on a bike worth next to nothing clearly (i just looked nice and well kept, but CLEARLY very old!)...
People will steal anything. The second hand market for bikes is quite strong though, which doesn't help.
I tend to ride to the same place every day so I leave my locks there. I use two locks because it means having to use two types of tools to cut through them, or having to pick two different types of lock. Basically I've got a thick motorcycle braid, which is about twice as thick as a bicycle one, and a D lock. The braid lives at my commuting destination and I take the D lock with me if I'm going somewhere else.
If you can bear it, stealthing the bike up with street camo can work too. Terrible hand-brushed paint jobs and electrical tape are very common in London. I guess it's a two-fold thing; firstly it hides what the bike is and second it destroys any resale value because you've made it instantly recognisable as your bike.
LeperousDust
13-09-2011, 08:31
The last bike really wasn't a looker, it was alternative and *mine* most important, but as you say people will steal anything. This new bike is going to be loved and never left outside long enough to attract attention (i hope).
I won't really be commuting anywhere with enough regularity to invest in a lock at a single location. I guess i'll have to put up and shut up though, the new bike is gorgeous and cannot be cammo'd at all, no compromise :p
I was thinking maybe a double lock combo would save a bit of weight and make it much more hassle to a would be thief in the short oppurtunity they'd get.
D-Lock and sturdy chain would probably save weight on a motorbike super-sized chain but give me the same level of protection. D-locks are surprisingly strong (as long as a lock itself is decent) barring the bottle jack approach.
I suspect thieves won't really be carrying round croppers and bottle jacks all at once unless they have some kind of inside knowledge etc...
Either way i've ring fenced a good £50+ on another (shorter for weight saving) chain probably 10-12mm i can obviously reuse my exisiting armoured lock from the MTB and i'll grab a decent D-lock and also start crossing everything and wearing lucky charms. :)
//Edit: Oooooofft this looks good, yet expensive!
£85! Need to find similar D-Lock without the Kryptonite brand...
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Images/Models/Full/18394.jpg (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=18394)
LeperousDust
13-09-2011, 09:14
And done:
GRP Superdeals 18mm U-Lock @ £16.50 with a square barrel
http://www.allinlondon.co.uk/directory/1284/52272.php (Wilson Cycles, Peckham)
Now apart from the location it means i just need to do a bit of leg work locally but there are cheaper decent U-Locks out there without kryptonite written on them.
See here (http://www.lfgss.com/thread17938.html) these guys seem to swear by it :)
I've got a couple of these:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kryptonite-S2-Std-U-Lock-4ft-Kryptoflex-Cable-Cycle-/190571999762
Can't fault them and they come with a handy mount for on the bike. You don't have to justify buying another chain. In my opinion you can't have too many security options :p
LeperousDust
13-09-2011, 14:17
I dunno for a u-lock i was thinking i want more than 13mm standard, 16/17/18 which really inflated the price agreed, but i think makes a much meaner U-Lock, also the mini i posted has a very small footprint, which means it only fits around a few things but importantly weighs less.
Ah right, didn't realise it was a mini. Ouch at the price then! What's the plan for the mini? 6" long will only be long enough to D lock the front or back wheel to the frame. I don't think it will be long enough to go round anything as well.
After being inspired by all of the road bikes in Berlin I've been wanting to pick up an old one and get myself a nice cheap bike for short journeys. Bit of a project like yours Jonny, but with nowhere near the expertise!
Any tips on where to find a bike to fit the bill?
LeperousDust
14-09-2011, 01:42
Joe check ebay gumtree and freecycle type websites, things come and go all the time, its just a matter of waiting long enough for what your after in your size.
Jonny, these show you correct locking with a U-lock even small ones just about fit without leverage room:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/73/161211403_3d9b27d496.jpg
http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh167/edscoble/5816b496.jpg?t=1286637587
http://a1608.g.akamai.net/7/1608/1365/b0d80055fc131f/away.com/images/outside/200910/how-to-lock-a-bike.jpg
Ah yes, gumtree. I'd forgotten about that one.
I've been watching ebay, I'll have to be patient I guess. Thanks.
LeperousDust
19-09-2011, 02:38
Ooooohhh, parents picked the bike up today, mega excited, but i don't go home to visit my parents until the October 8th, so still some waiting unfortunately!
Lol. My mountain bike took a pasting yesterday. I was amazed it stood up to that much punishment :D
LeperousDust
19-09-2011, 08:52
Mine will this Saturday :D Can't wait frankly; haven't been out properly in ages, in fact i'm slightly scared of my fitness its that long!
Black Route (http://thehubintheforest.co.uk/trails/glentress/black-route) (if we are that brave, i doubt it will happen this saturday)
Red Route (http://thehubintheforest.co.uk/trails/glentress/red-route) (much more likely since there are 7 or more of us and it probably better suits us all together)
5 hours for 29km sounds epic. Black route!
LeperousDust
20-09-2011, 00:12
It is truly epic, i love it, it inter twines with the red route so you can chop and choose and still do the distance without some of the mammoth drop offs and truly deadly terrain :D But i fear i don't think i can pull ~30km off road right now! :( It's been forever properly... Poor show by me, but we'll see what the group wants on saturday at the end of the day i'll do whatever really, its all fun.
I've done the blue route many times with friends trying to get them into biking and tbh if you *really* push yourself its quite silly! :D
LeperousDust
24-09-2011, 17:29
I'm a broken man! Half way round the black route and bailed for the red, i had to give up! It was still fun, and i actually had far more serious accident(s) coming down the red route ;D Love that place so much, it fires me up every time i go! :)
LeperousDust
05-10-2011, 04:24
I think i've been possibly convinced to start some night cycling which would fit in with my backwards sleep pattern due to working strange hours. Not too sure about riding on my own just properly in the dark just yet, but we'll see. I've done the odd trip out in blackness around Arthur's Seat, which was enough to be fair it gets prettttty isolated up there at night! But i might try and head out a bit further. Just short listed under~£60 (delivered) worth of lights from DX, slight overkill, but i don't plan to run them on max much, and just hopefully stretch battery life from them.
TrustFire Protected 18650 Lithium Battery (2500mAh 2-Pack Blue) (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/5790)
Digital Li-Ion 18650 Battery Charger (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/6105)
Universal Nylon Mount for Flashlights and Lasers (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/12000)
Universal Adjustable Bicycle Mount for Flashlights (2cm~4cm Diameter) (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/31871)
UltraFire TH-T60 HA-II XM-LT60 2-Mode 1000-Lumen White LED Flashlight with Strap (1 x 18650) (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/55908)
T6 Water Resistant XML-T6 3-Mode 1200-Lumen White LED Bike Light with Battery Pack Set (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/82510)
So one bike mounted light and one directional helmet mounted light, and a whole lot of lumens. Quite shocking how cheap BRIGHT LED torches are now days!
Wow. I'm impressed. Might have to get some of that gear for myself. Although I've still never actually used my cateye lights!!
I've also been wanting the daddy of all maglites for years as a friend of mine has one - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Maglite-Blister-Cell-Flashlight-Black/dp/tech-data/B000056BME/ref=de_a_smtd
Thats a seriously powerful bulb, but lumen wise looks amateur in comparison!
Just for reference my Fenix L2D is 180 lumens and it's awesome on unlit roads. It's undeniable that that torch will be very bright but I'd take 1000 lumens with a pinch of salt because it's that cheap. It certainly won't have a regulated output, so it'll start bright and fade away, whereas a regulated output stays constant until the battery is empty (edit: ok I take that back, the advert says it's regulated). 18650 cells are the way to get big outputs though and I find the torch option both cheaper and more flexible than dedicated bike lights. I use my torch as a torch quite regularly now I've got it. Very handy :)
Lights are like locks. You wince at the price but you never regret it once they arrive :)
LeperousDust
07-10-2011, 00:25
It's note quite the same Jonny, also that torch definitely isn't regulated at that price, DX are just monkeys. But you'll get 1-1.5 hours out of it on max per cell, which is more than enough, given it'll be getting turned up and down. I could spend more indeed, but actually considering the torch/LED market, you can't invest right now, that's like saying i'll invest in computer memory (of any sort! :p), whereas lock technology hasn't really "improved" (they've just got thicker/bigger in most cases). Prices are plummeting, and even in the next few months, even these will probably be half the price! I know when i priced up a decent ghetto install back in 2008 it was looking like easily over £100.
Check out MTBBritain Lights (http://www.mtbbritain.co.uk/forum/index.php?showforum=19) sub forum, yes i could spend more i agree, but for what it's worth right now it's really not necessary. I also agree it won't be 5gazillion lumens, but i do know it's ****ing bright, brighter and more efficient than the CREE P7's their using (they've been lumen price king for a long time). So however many lumens it is, enough is the real answer. :)
Finally found an old bike. A friend's dad has quite a lot of bikes & has let me borrow this, not sure yet if he'll let me keep it but I've got a feeling he might *fingers crossed*
http://a.yfrog.com/img807/8536/9tps.jpg
It doesn't look much but I'm told its got good parts, all old campagnolo stuff. It was also caked in the most grease I've ever seen. I'd already spent a few hours cleaning it up for this photo but I'll need to spend a few more before its got the chrome finish back!!
Very nice, you can't beat retro - especially where Campag is concerned... that rear mech is awesome. Ooooh and check out the large flange hubs!
Give us some close-ups of those components!
I'll get some more photos when I get back to work on it.
The rear mech is pretty nice, it'll look great when it's clean!
What's the easiest way to remove serious grease? Currently been using degreasing foam & spray with a toothbrush & cloths but it takes forever!
That looks well cool. Are you like 7ft tall though? :D
Best way to degrease is to take it all apart and clean it in petrol or paraffin, next best is to get a can of spray brake cleaner from the local car spares place. It'll just blast it all off. Don't forget to oil it back up again though :D
Looks like I didn't post any pictures of my Bob Jackson. Built this up over the last few months and it's now in regular duty:
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/bobjackson/IMG_7444.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/bobjackson/IMG_7317.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/bobjackson/IMG_7322.JPG
http://www.jonny69.co.uk/uploads/bikes/bobjackson/IMG_7453.JPG
It's a late 70's Bob Jackson frame in Columbus steel, 32-spoke VO rims I made up myself with large-flange alloy track hubs and double-butted stainless spokes, Andele cranks, MKS Sylvan quill pedals with chrome toeclips and cut down drop handle bars ala track bars. Saddle is a late 70's nylon jobbie with an aero stem. Total weight is just over 8kg.
Ha, not quite. 6'2" but do need to raise the seat a bit!
I don't have petrol or paraffin but did think that taking things apart would be best. However I've never dismantled a bike before so didn't go any further than simply taking the wheel off to get better access to the rear mech & cassette. Might have a look towards YouTube though to see if I can find some disassembly videos.
I've been using a degreaser spray & foam, although not my disc break cleaner as I've not got a lot left so using what I have - it needs a lot though!!
Right, got some photos as I've had a go at cleaning it up some more & getting it ready to ride.
Hopefully making this album public means you can all see it; http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.640681834103.144769.279200026&type=3
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/307706_640681893983_279200026_5400328_1602836426_n .jpg
What's the easiest way to remove serious grease?
Petrol. Get an old baking tray and dump the components in, then brush with a toothbrush. Just bear in mind that it doesn't take long for the petrol to react with the glue holding the bristles in and they start falling out ;D
It does work well, but you don't get many miles per gallon... *badoom tish*
camerajuan
26-10-2011, 23:55
Has anyone used the cycle to work scheme?
I just sold my Scott Yecora and I am now riding a very heavy Magna Equator to work. I am looking to use the ctw scheme to get a lighter & prettier ride for my commute but not sure how it works. Are there any restrictions on how many hours you work or is it just up to you what bike you get & how much you pay each month into the fund from your wage?
LeperousDust
27-10-2011, 00:15
As far as i know the discounts are real, and decent, but the T&C's are a nightmare, they are over a long term contract i think with your company if you leave the bike isnt yours. So i think it's kinda leased until paid for in small amounts from your wage?
Last person to talk to me about it said it was good, but in a lot of cases a decent deal on the internet or second it usually less hassle and can easily be better value for money.
But since my work don't offer it, i have no actual first hand knowledge with it myself, my friend just didn't seem so impressed with it after really looking in to it. And if i'm honest i've forgotten the intricacies of his explanation ;D
camerajuan
27-10-2011, 11:47
Yeah that sounds similar to the guy from my works payment scheme. He got a £350 bike plus accessories for something like £15 a month. After 18 months the contract was up and he gave the company £40 or something like that and the whole lot was his.
It sounds great when its laid out that way but if it goes deeper I may just slog it out on the heavy bike for a month & get a good one later on. Its at least twice the weight of my old bike and has narrow handlebars, like a fist width to the gear stick(no twisty).
I reckon a deep look into it at a bike shop is going to be worth it.
yeah we have it, loads do it here. Saves them a fortune in the long run as you dont pay tax on it, so if it's an expensive bike, you save more.
camerajuan
27-10-2011, 13:54
Soooo, just called HR and my company (a well known quasi billion pound industry giant that rhymes with "free and flu") is not part of the cycle to work scheme and has no plans to join it.
Steps from now to get them to see sense??
LeperousDust
27-10-2011, 14:05
How much are you willing to spend? Anything around entry level bikes 300-600 probably won't benefit so much, because you're tied to certain shops (evens cycles for instance) which have inflated prices. So you save VAT on a bad deal. Whereas if you shop around you could get the same bike "off" the scheme for probably the same price. I don't think i'm doing my explanation any justice though ;D
camerajuan
27-10-2011, 14:44
Put simply I don't have the cash to buy even an entry level bike right now as my work refuse to up my hours past 23 per week.
In one of the shops that I'm tied to theres an awesome lookin bike I found for £315. That plus lock, pump & muds would be perfect for my commute. If my work decides its a good idea then I can go for that.
Other option - I need to sell my heavyweight on wheels & trawl gumtree & ebay to get a decent lightweight bike for under £100 if I can. Got the Scott Yecora for £70(MUG sold me it)but I imagine that to be a flash in the pan!
LeperousDust
27-10-2011, 15:09
Put simply I don't have the cash to buy even an entry level bike right now as my work refuse to up my hours past 23 per week.
Ha I hear you! I average about 21.5 hours a week it seems ;D
Other option - I need to sell my heavyweight on wheels & trawl gumtree & ebay to get a decent lightweight bike for under £100 if I can. Got the Scott Yecora for £70(MUG sold me it)but I imagine that to be a flash in the pan!
I'd be watching gumtree, the price of bikes on gumtree seems a little inflated around Edinburgh compared to what i'd get in Liverpool (hence why i bought my last bike in Liverpool and brought it up on the train). But you see some lovely old school racers got from between £20-£100 fairly often on gumtree. Waiting it out and getting a decent second hander would be my choice. I have a slight problem with buying new though :D
In related news, i've finally taken the bike i bought over a month ago out, and it's smoooooooooth. I'm in love. Just need to buy a fahgettaboudit (maybe mini) and some light clips (use the same lights as my mountain bike). Woohooooo :)
camerajuan
28-10-2011, 11:33
I'd be watching gumtree, the price of bikes on gumtree seems a little inflated around Edinburgh compared to what i'd get in Liverpool (hence why i bought my last bike in Liverpool and brought it up on the train). But you see some lovely old school racers got from between £20-£100 fairly often on gumtree. Waiting it out and getting a decent second hander would be my choice. I have a slight problem with buying new though :D
Yeah seen a few on there around my area - which right now is Hampshire! I bought my Scott Yecora on there and hopefully someone will be as generous and stick up a Marin/Saracen for £60 ono!
Couple of racers seen on there which I've thought about but aren't they a bit fragile? I ride 5 miles to work and its not the smoothest terrain, in fact the last part has a cabbage patch to go through as a shortcut!
Just gotta wait until payday then sell the Boheimath & get something!
LeperousDust
29-10-2011, 00:23
My last racer was a tank compared to modern racer bikes. "Carbolite" something Peugeot ; weighed a ton ;D! But i wouldn't be cyclocrossing on it! A reall cyclocross bike would do you well though! If it's off road defo cheaper to stick to MTB, but depends my last racer suffered loooooong stretched of cobbles every day of its life!
^^^ what he said was right!
A pure road bike will start to suffer if it has to deal with too much rough stuff. It won't just the be the forks that take the punishment, the tyres will be too narrow to soak up th ebumps and the rims will start to get hit. Cyclocross bikes have many of the advantages of a road bike but are a bit tougher and have clearance for bigger tyres, so you can take them off road. Something else to consider is a rigid frame mountain bike, i.e. no suspension. I took on on my off-road event and had a massive advantage most of the time. I had a huge adventage unless it was high speed downhill stuff on really rough ground, where I really had to hold on tight and took a battering but the suspension bikes soaked it up. For most of the rest of the event, suspension just looked like added weight and was slowing people down by soaking up their pedalling power. Ideally I'd go for front suspension only, that can lock off, so on the roads you don't have the spring sapping all your energy.
camerajuan
03-11-2011, 14:55
Well its a 5 mile ride, very up and downy, through residential streets and up a VERY long shopping high street, then through an even worse up and down council estate with a 200m ride through a dirt tracked farm to reach the overpass, uphill & down the other side to my work. If I get my new job, it'll be the same with a mile flat road to the new location. (B&Q to Delta Force Paintball. Step UP!).
All the roads are fairly even tarmac except the council estate, where I pick my route to avoid the bad-golfer-esque divots in the road. The Scott Yecora handled all terrains awesomely. It had front suspension only and a very light frame(pics further back in this thread). Looking for something similar to that in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire or London. Need wheels for work!
I was a bit gutted to lose my trusty Gore Windstopper gloves the other week. The closest I could find to replace them were some Louis Garneau Sotchis. Really nice but £45!!! :shocked:
I managed to score a pair on eBay for £27 delivered and I'm dead chuffed :cool:
LeperousDust
16-11-2011, 19:57
Not quite getting on my my cheapo cages, and the compact frame geometry is definitely stranger to ride. I never would have thought i'd say that. Hard to put a finger on what it is, but i find it eternally harder to balance stopped at lights, not helped by the fact i hate these cheap cages as mentioned! But otherwise my little bike is a dream :) Perfect for scooting about town again. I seem to be far to lazy to walk anywhere (it just takes too damn long!) ;D
camerajuan
17-11-2011, 12:17
My gumtree bike turned out to be a lemon.
Apollo XC26, rusty in parts which didn't bother me. Seat had paint splatter on it, didn't bother me. Front sus worked fine, wheels spin true and brakes nice & tight. £35.
Fortnight in, sus stopped working, back tyre flat overnight and back wheel loosens if I cycle too far. Strip. Tighten. Respray. Clean. Sell.
Paid on the 30th & buying the nicest thing I can find on gumtree for £100 or less. Unless my new "employer" gets registered with cyclescheme tonight and I can score a shiny new Scott Sportster from Hargroves. Hoping this will be the end of my woes!
LeperousDust
22-11-2011, 12:42
Oooooft, just remembered how much a pain in the ass fresh new tyres are to fit! But old worn that came with my bike are replaced, some new rim tape applied one both wheels, since one tube exploded at 100psi due to poor rim tape after closer inspection I think, and two nice new Bontrager tubes fitted. Nice new white Schwalbe Blizzard tyres looks lovely with the rest of the white/blue on the bike as well. I've bought some bar tape to replace to old grimey white stuff on here but i detest replacing tape with a passion, so it can wait for now ;D
Pictures hopefully soon if i'm more motivated to find a camera and faff! Looks sschhweeet though. Kryptonite mini lock turned out to be a star buy as well it's solid as anything and beautiful to use, fits perfect on most railings and bike pole thingys™ but not around lampposts and bigger things which isn't really a problem for me :)
Happier still with the bike itself though so glad i bought it! :) I have noticed that my feet can get in the way balancing at lights if i swing the front wheel too far either direction, i'm fairly sure this hasn't happened on any previous bikes, so i guess that's another little niggle of the compact frame geometry!
Yep, my Bob is ultra short at the front and you can't turn far if your foot is in the forward position! I think I've only clipped my foot once while riding though, and that was this evening ;D
LeperousDust
23-11-2011, 05:20
What about stopped at lights? I seem to have immense trouble not clipping myself if i'm ultra (lazy) balancing.... quite annoying really!
I always put a foot down at the lights. I'm not clever enough to do track stands and stuff like you crazy kids ;D
LeperousDust
24-11-2011, 04:59
I'm gonna stack it hilarious style sooner or later at the lights i see it coming! It's out of sheer laziness though, getting in and out of cages at every damn set of lights is an utter paint in the ***!
Since I didn't get in on the Hell of the Ashdown I've booked myself on the Kentish Killer instead. 70 mile ride with 7000ft of climbing. On the singlespeed? Ok then, why not :D
LeperousDust
26-11-2011, 02:33
Jesus, I don't envy you mate! Well done though! :)
LeperousDust
27-11-2011, 04:04
Hmmmmmm, so first really wet day, it seems i've had it pretty easy recently with weather. Arse is a sodden affair when i arrived at work (and later arriving home!). Need a nice mudguard solution that fits my bike practically and aesthetically... Narrowed it down to:
Crud's (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=54934) - Which seem to have the lions share of users, yet do seem very marmite, some people definitely think they are flimsy mofo's other's swear by them. Seems a gamble to me...
SKS Race Blade (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=25796) - Basically seem to be "the other one" in terms of recommendations, and most people berating the crud's advise these.
Topeak Defender (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=28844&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Shopping&utm_name=UnitedKingdom) - Don't really seem to have so much presence online as the other two, but do seem to me to be a viable alternative.
In the end they all seem quite a gamble though, since they're all designed to be lightweight (read: flimsy). But i do need to sort this out, tonight was a wash out...
//Also yet to take any pictures, but did have a nice chap stop and talk to me just last night interested with my bike, whilst i was stopped with a mate who was having a nosey. Honestly couldn't have put bigger smile on my face and definitely makes me think it was worth the monies :) It is pretty sweet to ride now growing around the frame...
I've used shorty mudguards like the Topeak ones before and they don't do a lot. You need to cover the wheel a lot more for them to be effective.
LeperousDust
28-11-2011, 00:20
Hmmmm i have tomorrow off so i might pop down the bike shop and try some on for size if they're nice enough :) I'll buy from them if they're the right price too, sadly even though CRC isn't that cheap comparatively online the highstreet bike shops really can't compare to even them!
Think i'm swaying to SKS, not really sure why though ;D
LeperousDust
29-11-2011, 17:34
Hmmm the blades seem quite short in comparison and the crud's feel as flimsy as anything although i'm assured they're good, but i can't quite imagine it....
In other news i've lost one of my gloves (probably from the pocket of my coat), i have an awful reputation with gloves. Equally i get cold hands very easier due to apparently poor blood circulation round my hands!
camerajuan
30-11-2011, 19:18
New wheels!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150429007343936&set=a.170102018935.122566.502853935&type=1&theater
I believe its about 3/4 years old.
21" frame
26" Wheels with red trims.
Its pretty much an awesome flying machine to get to work & back! The price? £35 from a guy on gumtree! BARGAIN!
Any tips for add ons? I'm getting a new saddle already as the existing one HURTS!
LeperousDust
01-12-2011, 01:34
Nice :)
I always have a lock attached somewhere, light clips front and back (i always buy these (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=14517) two (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=14407)because my bikes share lights it might say 2012 but they've been the same since 2008 at least!), a bottle rack, and maybe a little bag somewhere to hold little things depending on time of year and how big i want it... Little things like spare tube, levers, multi tool minimum. Possibly space for lights a shower cap (for he saddle when it's raining). Then i have to make sure i have a pump somewhere on the bike or me :)
Think that's everything.
I just bought the SKS blades today from my LBS and they said money back if they don't fit nicely or i'm really not happy with them, as long as i keep the box and them in decent condition, which is superb (why i love my LBS'!), had a look today and fitting the back blade will be 'mare so it can wait until tomorrow :p
camerajuan
01-12-2011, 15:17
The Scott bike I had definitely had both of those on when I bought it, guess previous owner had the same faith.
Pump is sorted I got a compact one from Hargroves along with a couple of valve lights too. New saddle is a must tho this thing is so slim & so firm. I had pelivis surgery(metal plates, screws & wires holding right side together)when I was 15 & the saddle sits right on the bones which got operated on & it still hurts today after riding home Tuesday night.
Picked up an AWESOME little multitool from TK Maxx for £5 and had levers & spare tubes lying around that thankfully fit this bikes wheels also.
Mudguards. Should I colour match with red/yellow ones or play it safe with black?
LeperousDust
01-12-2011, 16:37
I'll say now pick up levers that arent part of a multi tool. Like three levers that click together style, you'll always want at least one levers and locked against a spoke. And it's just so much easier when they're separate :)
That multi tool also might have been cheap, but a few good hard twists and abuse and it'll likely fall apart or become loose and pain in the ass. I may be wrong but i've been through far too many cheap ones myself. I've stuck to paying for real chunky decent branded ones now. Can't remember the make of mine right now but i'll check when i'm home. Park Tools you can't really go wrong with though (albeit expensive).
Mudguards personally i stick to black, i think colour matched always looks a bit bling, but i guess it depends. When i manage to fit mine properly, they will be easily detachable though so i can remove the unsightly blighters for summer :D
camerajuan
01-12-2011, 16:57
Its a JCB multitool which retails at my work(B&Q)for close to £20. Dunno how it made its way into TK Maxx just thankful it did! Don't wanna end up spending too much on the tools before Christmas.
I had white guards on my blue & white Scott Yecora but I think red/yellow may look a bit dickish. Shiny black ones I think. Safe option.
No wonder I'm knackered. Christmas shopping all day, but I've managed to cover over 40 miles on my bike and visited a total of three counties in the process! That includes the Bromley hill and twice up and down the Crystal Palace hill. Beckenham-Bromley-Beckenham-Richmond-Teddington-Clapham-Central London-Beckenham on the fixed gear. I'm going to sleep well if my knees don't explode.
LeperousDust
15-01-2012, 19:31
Ahhhhhh, well really truly settled into my bike, and i LOVE love love it! :)
All the little niggles are working themselves out (well after i've spent some money but has to be done).
Got some genius little A530 pedals (http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/components/pedals/product/review-shimano-pd-a530-pedals-10-39698) which still mean i can jump on and off my bike where and when i please. But also allows me to use my shoes if i've got a longer planned cycle somewhere for comfort :)
Put some SKS RaceBlade (http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/accessories/mudguards/product/raceblades-30859) mudguards on, which so far i can say are superb, but i have read some horror stories of the rubber working loose and perishing etc... so time will tell with these. But right now they've done me very proud, and judging by he total state of the bike when i cleaned it yesterday (more on that) they've definitely been shielding me!
Also bought some nice new winter gloves (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/sealskinz-thermal-performance-road-cycle-glove/), which apart from today (-a million) have kept my usually poorly circulated hands very toasty, which make my commute SO SO SO much nicer it's untrue.
A decent Bspoke Holbourn jacket (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/green-living-blog/2010/mar/15/bspoke-cycling-menswear) (not at its RRP though!) which i wasn't too sure about, but was sick of my general £18 regatta outdoor coat being fairly **** at assuming the cycling position.
And finally i fit the Wippermann Connex Chain Link (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/wippermann-connex-chain-link-8-9-speed/) yesterday which was the start of my bikes first real clean since it was caked in road crud massively. I realised when i went to adjust the front derailer and realised i couldn't even find the screws ;D So took the chain apart fit the quick release link and soaked all the components in some nice Swarfega degreaser striped everything back nicely and re-greased and lubed up lovely. All smooth and clean again now, quite happy about it all :)
Honestly my commute is a dream no matter what the weather now, literally nothing could bother me :D
I've got mudguards on one of mine at the moment. I really enjoyed not spraying the frame and running gear with sticky black salty crud this morning ;D
LeperousDust
16-01-2012, 17:04
The SKS Race blades don't really seem to stop that, but they don't spray me which i quite like. I took a LOT of crud off the other day, especially just around the guards. They're pretty short, just enough to get the job done in my opinion but no more definitely!
vBulletin® v3.7.4, Copyright ©2000-2025, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.