The Cycling Thread [Archive] - Page 15 - SV650.org

maviczap

23-07-11, 08:19 PM

You logged into the wrong thread! ;)

O)nly kidding I was glued to the TV watching it live in HD :p

Very happy with that result.

Have thought he's been a bit of a moaner in other years, but this years he's kept his head down and got on with it, unlike Andy Stiff Neck (as the French are now calling him). Only way for it to have been better would have been for Voeckler to have clawed back 3rd. (Or have had a couple of other British jerseys for G and brad - but that went out the window ages ago).

+1 Only downer is that Wiggo must have been in with a very good chance with his and Stiff Necks poor ability against the watch and the Dauphine form. We'll never know.

Chapau to Tommy V, I was watching the Galibier stage on the large TV monitor in a public cafe Euro Disney. Everyone cheered when he kept the jersey for another day.

Chapau to Cav, EBH & G. Hope Cav does keep the Green jersey.

Not keen on either Schleck as I read somewhere that their names were in the OP Puerto files, same goes for Alberto.

Great tour, as no one pre race favourite dominated the overall

:takeabow:

Wish I'd stuck a few quid on it at Ladbrooks :rolleyes:

I did have Cadel in my Halfrauds fantasy TDF team, and Tommy V, but I'm still down in 2900 place

Luckypants

24-07-11, 03:35 PM

Today's bike ride was the hardest I have ever done! Some of the steepest climbs ever and I admit to walking on a 20+% section of one. Bolloxed, off for bath! :(

Jackie_Black

24-07-11, 03:45 PM

I've just done a horrible 9 miles, the bike felt horrible and i felt horrible. So from this i have concluded my bike needs a wash and service, its first in 3 years and i need to stop using red wine as my energy drink!!

maviczap

24-07-11, 06:07 PM

Today's bike ride was the hardest I have ever done! Some of the steepest climbs ever and I admit to walking on a 20+% section of one. Bolloxed, off for bath! :(

20% thats not a climb, thats a rock face :mad: I would have got off and walked it ages before you LP :(

Luckypants

26-07-11, 11:21 AM

Well Mav, first steep one of the day was 1-in-6 (16%)

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=youtube+blue+october+chameleon+boy&hl=en&ll=52.949155,-3.99632&spn=0.008973,0.022724&sll=52.948108,-3.997436&sspn=0.008973,0.022724&filter=0&radius=0.57&z=16&layer=c&cbll=52.94914,-3.996519&panoid=nnhmkqwvrSeWsUcA2WCMDg&cbp=12,236.37,,0,0

Then the really steep one that was 1-in-5 or more in places, but the sign still said 1-in-6... take a look at this bad boy...

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=youtube+blue+october+chameleon+boy&hl=en&ll=52.952284,-4.107256&spn=0.008119,0.045447&sll=52.949129,-3.996491&sspn=0.008119,0.045447&filter=0&layer=c&cbll=52.952288,-4.107277&panoid=kzYMkSaYruhfPcSBX3BaBg&cbp=12,337.8,,0,0&radius=1.14&z=15

Then after the cafe stop, a gentle run at 20+mph to this little number...

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=youtube+blue+october+chameleon+boy&hl=en&ll=52.936845,-4.003916&spn=0.016243,0.090895&sll=52.942535,-4.05447&sspn=0.016241,0.090895&filter=0&layer=c&cbll=52.936928,-4.003959&panoid=GEMRKMUVBbkmN8tcgfQe7g&cbp=12,168.77,,0,0&radius=2.27&z=14

After which a decision was made to NOT go over the gated road (a long 10%+ climb with sections over 18%), but to go directly back on the A4212 to Bala as this was easier. I missed the break at the start and was dropped by the lead group. I couldn't reel them back so had to time trial back to the cars, even on this 'easy' route back there was a 10% climb to deal with. My lunch made a bid for freedom trying to bridge back to the breakaway and eventually it succeeded when I got back to the cars :(. A4212 saw a 21mph average (mainly downhill run back) but overall average was 14.5, an indication of the severity of the climbing.

Follow the climbs on the Streetview links to get an idea of demanding they were. The complete route (67.5 miles) if anyone is interested...
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/43023756 (http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/43023756)

And the real git of it? I have a new 28-11 cassette waiting to go on, but I was saving it for the Pyrenees to put some hard climbs into my legs at home first. So I could have made it up all of them on that I reckon...

Luckypants

26-07-11, 11:23 AM

Talking of the Pyrenees, after that ride me and my bro booked onto this (http://pyreneescycling.co.uk/holiday-packages/classic-tour-cols-weeks/) for the beginning of September. :D

http://pyreneescycling.co.uk/holiday-packages/classic-tour-cols-weeks/

Mav, you have an email!

krhall

26-07-11, 12:56 PM

Just dusted off my old hybrid and did 12 miles with my 6 & 10 year olds!!! I was really impressed by them!

Jackie_Black

26-07-11, 02:17 PM

Went to the bike shop yesterday, bought some stuff to put in my bottles. SIS blackcurrant energise I believe it is. Just done this ride.

http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/b0de/8b46/4bf9/85f0/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110726-1156.html (http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/b0de/8b46/4bf9/85f0/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110726-1156.kml)

And that pink stuff is incredible!! I only took out one bottle as well as my camelback full of water and came home feeling just fine. top product cheers for the advice, I think i may need something a bit isotonic too for longer journeys though as I was getting a little headache towards the end. Conditions up here are windy and 13 degrees! in july!

maviczap

26-07-11, 04:11 PM

Just dusted off my old hybrid and did 12 miles with my 6 & 10 year olds!!! I was really impressed by them!

So who won the sprint to the line, 6 year old I bet ;)

krhall

26-07-11, 05:21 PM

So who won the sprint to the line, 6 year old I bet ;)

Hell yeah, he got the green jersey for sure...i still can't believe he actually managed 6 miles out and then the same back. Nice chance to try out the garmin edge 500 though.

454697819

28-07-11, 07:53 AM

quick update on the Kona Dew Duluxe 2010

Other than I believe the frame is the wrong size for me (thatll teach me to buy online) the bike is doing really well, I reckon a conservative estimate is 320 miles now commuting, which I am happy with as I dont ride at the weekends and only do my 12 mile daily commute 3 times a week.

I do need to re adjust all the gears but as they work at the moment I am reluctant to touch them, and I would like to change my tyres from 700 x 35 hybrid tyres to 700 x 25 semi slick tyres to give a little less rolling resistance.

Spd's and shoes will also be on the list having trashed a £60 pair of trainers thanks to the the spiked pedals I have on at the moment.

As for me, I have gone from 118.7 kg to 111.3 kg as of last night and my aim was 10kg by september, so If possible I have 3kg to loose by the end of august, however to be honest I am already feeling massive benifits, My jeans and work trousers are too big, my gut is reduced and I work much better when I have cycled in. I am not getting hung up on figures too much as I have built HUUUGE muscles in my legs since cycling which wont "help" with the numbers. I was pretty much a 42" waist but I now reckon I am 39" but I will find out for sure when I try and buy some new jeans on saturday, I quite like my clothes being baggy so going back to clothes that fit might make me feel fat still, hey ho might spur me on.

any way, hope everyone else is still enjoying their cycling however serious we each take it :-)

EssexDave

28-07-11, 08:00 AM

Hey folks,

I'm starting to look for turbo trainers for when winter comes.

Any recommendations? Preferably something cheap and reasonable for training :)

maviczap

28-07-11, 10:38 AM

Hey folks,

I'm starting to look for turbo trainers for when winter comes.

Any recommendations? Preferably something cheap and reasonable for training :)

Cheap and reasonable don't equate to a good trainer :D

I've got a fluid filled resistance trainer which is pretty good, nice and smooth and sort of replicated the feeling of the road.

Don't buy any of the ones with the wind resisatance fans, they're carp.

I had a magnetic resistance type, but the action of the magnets made pedalling action a bit 'choppy'

Best thing i did buy was a special turbo trainer tyre for the rear

rob13

28-07-11, 10:49 AM

I had a Cyclops Fluid 2 which was fairly decent. I fancied investing in an i-magic, but not sure if the gimmick might wear off and become just another trainer. Theyre not easy to motivate yourself onto as its a pretty boring affair just turning the wheel and getting nowhere.

Quiff Wichard

28-07-11, 11:55 AM

dont know if its been discussed but diggers at work on telly was interesting the other day .

Dalby forest in Yorkshire? mountain bike world cup held there.. showed you the digger man building the course..

was on 22.07 ... I think Lucky pants is on the clip.. a guy goes over the handlebars just the same as his famous clip - I may video it and pop it up here

Quiff Wichard

28-07-11, 11:58 AM

odd though - he tests the track himself after and leaves his digger there to crash in to.. ha

oh look in idle banter laters I am goin to pop up some vids from staffordshire bike show- was extreme mountain bike skills there.

krhall

28-07-11, 01:09 PM

Had my first, pleasure only, ride on the new Focus Cayo last night and went for a 32 mile blast with my Dad. To be honest I have commuted a few times on it and was disappointed not to notice a massive difference between it and my cacky old bike, but WOW the ride last night showed just what a mahooooooosive difference the bike makes, not least when tackling hills...

I absolutely flew up them (relative to normal) and felt strong the whole way round despite having a bad chest at the moment. I love it, what a great buy!

krhall

28-07-11, 07:52 PM

Anyone know of a decent couple of routes around Brighton/West Sussex University, might have a crack at ditchling beacon...

Jackie_Black

29-07-11, 03:43 PM

I just finished this!!

http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/b0de/8b46/4bf9/85f0/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110729-1229.kml

Just shy of my first half century so i'm rounding it up!!

mattSV

29-07-11, 06:55 PM

Anyone want a bargain TT bike - Planet X are knocking these (http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/CBPXSPRIV/planet-x-stealth-pro-carbon-sram-rival-time-trial-bike) out for £999 at the moment:-

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/imgs/products/440x380_constWH/CBPXSPRIV_P1.jpg

krhall

01-08-11, 09:01 AM

Arghhhhh...my &r5e!!!

Did my longest every ride on Saturday 70 miles, never even been close before, previous longest was sub-40 miles. Then followed it up with a 68 miler on Sunday, which included Beechy Head and some worse hills, felt pretty good, just a bit tired whe I woke up this morning. Then it dawned on me that I am currently cycling 5 days a week since selling M/bike and car...

Jackie_Black

01-08-11, 10:01 AM

70 miles is my target for this fri/sat. My training is going incredibly well for the c2c so far. I definitely need a new seat though!! Its amazing that you followed up your 70 with a 68, good going.

maviczap

02-08-11, 06:37 PM

krhall

02-08-11, 08:10 PM

Been sitting here with that stuff on my nipples for the last two nights - me and bib shorts do not get on!

I bought a Gore cycling top (contest I think) from Evans in London Bridge and it is the dogs danglies, compared to the DHB cr@p one I have...and it was cheaper! Just been on wiggle and bought another one, sadly it was £5 more than I paid in Evans, but they have no stock.

I am happy to report that even after the weekend I have commuted twice and my lower regions are not hurting...

I am finding it strange that I am not currently missing the motorbike or car, despite getting a soaking today. I love my new bike though.

krhall

02-08-11, 08:13 PM

70 miles is my target for this fri/sat. My training is going incredibly well for the c2c so far. I definitely need a new seat though!! Its amazing that you followed up your 70 with a 68, good going.

JB - they were total miles...and I had no choice really (well other than be bored) I had time to kill so stopped for a Wimpy on one day and a big lunch on the other day. If I hadn't had the time to kill and had carried some provisions with me I think I could have gone further...

How far away is the C2C?

What's wrong with the seat?

maviczap

02-08-11, 08:31 PM

Been sitting here with that stuff on my nipples for the last two nights - me and bib shorts do not get on!.

Do you wear an undershirt under your top? Either a thermal in the cool weather or a thin wicking top if its hot.

I've never suffered, but I always wear a top under my bib shorts braces

Bought a couple of bike specific ones at Lidl today for £6.99 each, which were left over from their bike stuff of last week

Jackie_Black

02-08-11, 08:45 PM

JB - they were total miles...and I had no choice really (well other than be bored) I had time to kill so stopped for a Wimpy on one day and a big lunch on the other day. If I hadn't had the time to kill and had carried some provisions with me I think I could have gone further...

How far away is the C2C?

What's wrong with the seat?

The c2c is 135 miles! We are apparently doing it to raise money for the British heart foundation through the night to make it a little more difficult!

The seat was uncomfortable after 30 miles so i've got a specialized avatar on there now and it doesn't get comfy until 20 miles! I did 42 miles today in the pouring rain on it and it was great.

Really enjoying cycling at the moment, especially as i've found some quiet roads to ride, although the finish of them does leave a lot to be desired and i'm terrified my carbon forks are just going to fail! In the last week or so i've come to realise how important the energy drinks and stuff are too, feel like i could pedal for ever when i drink that sis stuff.

krhall

03-08-11, 05:39 AM

I used squash on the weekend, although I did take a gel on each day which wasn't enough. I need to take a look at that stuff for longer rides. I used to use SIS Rego recovery drinks when I was marathon training and SIS Orange Carb Gels are about the only ones I can actually handle.

maviczap

03-08-11, 11:25 AM

All I'll say is 2.5 hours scorchio this morning :cyclopsani::cyclopsani:

SV-net

03-08-11, 01:04 PM

get one of these www.kudoscycles.com (http://www.kudoscycles.com)

Luckypants

12-08-11, 02:46 PM

Training for the Pyrenees goes apace... I've started doing laps on the Clwyd Gate (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=clwyd+gate+a494&hl=en&ll=53.123728,-3.275704&spn=0.035745,0.090895&sll=53.129591,-3.3176&sspn=0.571849,1.454315&z=14&layer=c&cbll=53.123728,-3.275704&panoid=701mxysAhaAyKui8hL98rw&cbp=12,139.04,,0,0) on Thursdays in place of a normal ride in addition to longer weekend rides with the Crapi Wheelers. This is a 3.3km climb at an average of 7%, so just about managing 10km of climbing each session, I then have another kilometre of climbing to get home from Ruthin. :smt051
(http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=clwyd+gate+a494&hl=en&ll=53.123728,-3.275704&spn=0.035745,0.090895&sll=53.129591,-3.3176&sspn=0.571849,1.454315&z=14&layer=c&cbll=53.123728,-3.275704&panoid=701mxysAhaAyKui8hL98rw&cbp=12,139.04,,0,0)

The Idle Biker

12-08-11, 03:19 PM

My new bike, plans available on ebay;)

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/OverKill-Bike-Chopper-DIY-PDF-Plan-AtomicZombie-/120735914108?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1c6bd87c#ht_4905wt_1139

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd400/IdleBiker/mybike.jpg

maviczap

12-08-11, 04:08 PM

I expect the handling would be interesting

Luckypants

18-08-11, 10:18 AM

Looks like the bike sales are starting early. Chain Reaction have up to 30% off Vitus bikes and many others are discounted. If you are looking for a new push-iron, now is a good time.

krhall

18-08-11, 07:18 PM

maviczap

18-08-11, 08:14 PM

I nearly came off early in the rain, wasn't going very fast either went round the corner and nearly went down.

Which has worried me about attempting to commute all winter, will different tyres help much?

Whats it got on it?

Reducing the pressures a bit will help a bit

I think most folk go for Continentals, I might be wrong.

I've got GP400's on my Wiler and Gatorskin's on the other bike. Very sure footed everywhere.

Luckypants

19-08-11, 08:56 AM

I have continental ultra gatorskins on my Trek winter bike and and giving serious consideration to fitting some to the Ribble summer bike too. Always surprises me the level of grip they offer in the wet.

+1 on reducing pressures in the wet, maybe down as low as 80psi.

fizzwheel

19-08-11, 09:17 AM

I've got GP400's on my Wiler and Gatorskin's on the other bike. Very sure footed everywhere.

Ditto I commute on those over winter as well and never had any grip issues on cold / wet mornings, including one where the road was frosty and frozen. Dropping the pressures is a good call to.

krhall

19-08-11, 02:39 PM

I got caught out on the way home last night 125psi and virtually slick continental something or others!

Luckypants

19-08-11, 02:42 PM

WOW 125psi! Generally run 110, 80-90 in the wet....

krhall

19-08-11, 02:59 PM

WOW 125psi! Generally run 110, 80-90 in the wet....

So you're saying too high then?

fizzwheel

19-08-11, 04:25 PM

So you're saying too high then?

Yep

Drop the pressures as per what Luckypants said and then try it again, you might also find the ride a little more comfortable as well.

maviczap

19-08-11, 04:53 PM

I got caught out on the way home last night 125psi and virtually slick continental something or others!

Some of the budget Continental don't use the same rubber compound as the expesive ones.

I've got some on a spare set of wheels, which I've not ridden, but definitely are different rubber compound.

But the GP400's & Ultra Gatorskins use the same black silica compound which is better for grip alround IMHO.

But if your ride hasn't had any rain on it for a while its going to be more slippery after some rain, plus a bit of oil or somemat to add to the reduced friction

EssexDave

20-08-11, 05:41 PM

Just went and bought myself a Moda interval sprint and Dawes Supergalaxy (10 years old but in decent nick with 1 year old tiaga front and deore rear mech/casette.

Had them change a lot of the stuff on the moda, and must say it is a very sexy looking bike.

maviczap

20-08-11, 05:49 PM

The Dawes has been an all time classic, I don't know the other one though

But having Googled it, it does look like a sexy mutha

http://www.cultracing.com/product_images/n/575/DSC02440__84416_zoom.JPG

EssexDave

21-08-11, 11:51 AM

That's the one, except I've opted for a shimano 105 groupset as I didn't really get on with the sham.

They just called and said it's ready - shame I've been out and done 45 miles already today!

maviczap

21-08-11, 11:54 AM

Nothing wrong with 105 at all.

I fiddled with a SRAM gear lever on a bike in Decathlon, I couldn't work out how it worked either

EssexDave

21-08-11, 12:03 PM

It's like one click for up and 2 clicks for down (or vice versa depending which side) but I wasn't impressed by the ride what not.

To be honest, it's probably the fact it wasn't set up properly, but with the 105 I'm lucky enough to have been offered a triple (and as a proper sissy I took it)

maviczap

22-08-11, 07:33 PM

Had an 'interesting' moment today as we were travelling to Norfolk, when my litespeed departed company with the roof rack. Luckily the rear wheel was strapped down tight so the bike was dangling off the side of the car, but it was a bit of a shock.

No damage done to either that I can see

EssexDave

22-08-11, 07:59 PM

Wow that is lucky!

maviczap

28-08-11, 07:40 PM

Couple of recommended reads

'How I won the yellow jumper' - Ned Boultings book about his Tour de France experiences. lots of funny stories

'Racing through the dark' David Millars book. Throughly interesting read about his rise and fall from grace and then back up to where he is now.

I've started reading 'Slaying the badger' which is also good and from my favourite TDF era the late 80's and the epic battle between Hianult & Lemond in the 1986 TDF.

Jabba

28-08-11, 08:00 PM

http://www.cultracing.com/product_images/n/575/DSC02440__84416_zoom.JPG

Good looking bike :thumbsup:

+1 for the Shimano vs SRAM.

Those American Classic wheels look good and the brand as whole have had some very positive press in the last few months.

Me saving for some new wheels. Hoping to get Ksyrium Elites during the winter (ready for the spring :-))

Jabba

28-08-11, 08:05 PM

+1 on reducing pressures in the wet, maybe down as low as 80psi.

That's a bit low if you're running 700/23s. I wouldn't go below 90-95psi.

I run Conti GP4000s and they are fab, wet or dry, when run at 110-120psi. Conti recommend 110psi, so I pump up to 120psi and lose a bit when removing the pump-head :thumbsup:

Luckypants

30-08-11, 11:17 AM

Rode the Wild Wales sportive this weekend, 75 miles up the nastiest hills the gits could find in my area! I so wish I had fitted my 27-11 cassette before this ride, I was walking some of the 20% hills. Fitted it yesterday, ready for France, but really needed it on this ride. Link to my mate's Garmin readout...

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/110090675

A good day really, marred by my brother coming off on a steep descent, going round a VERY slippery corner. I was lucky, a guy in front also came off at same place and flagged me down. Another guy came off there and broke his wrist and collar bone, then rode to A&E!!! hard as nails! There were many stories of folks falling on that hill, even those that elected to walk down slipped and fell on their ass. :(

EssexDave

30-08-11, 11:26 AM

Good looking bike :thumbsup:

+1 for the Shimano vs SRAM.

Those American Classic wheels look good and the brand as whole have had some very positive press in the last few months.

Me saving for some new wheels. Hoping to get Ksyrium Elites during the winter (ready for the spring :-))

I've now done about 150 miles on this beauty and it is loveeely!
The wheels yes very nice, lovely whoosing sound at good pace too! Mine are the 58mm clinchers rather than the 30s on that picture.

My pace is a bit better and I'm enjoying that. I also got a 9 year old Dawes Supergalaxy with tiagra/deore XT and have put 60 miles on that so far - but I considered it a bargin at £200 with handlebar bag, rack and panniers, mudguards, newish tyres (Schwalbe marathon front and marathon plus rear) - bit heavy but all in all a good buy.

Looking to get some road shoes/cleats for the Moda early next year as I'm currently using MTB cleats on both and I've heard there is still quite a difference in pedalling efficiency with the stiffer soles of road shoes.

Planning on riding through winter - my first it must be said, but I'm getting very excited looking at snow tyres/spare wheels and winter gear.

Roll on the cold!

Jabba

30-08-11, 12:39 PM

The wheels yes very nice, lovely whoosing sound at good pace too! Mine are the 58mm clinchers rather than the 30s on that picture.

Cycling Plus included the 420 Aero 3 wheels in a recent review and gave them 9/10 :thumbsup:

As for pedals, I started with SPDs and MTB-type shoes but found I was getting pressure-numbness in my toes. Changed to Shimano PD-R670 pedals (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=47601) with stiff-soled shoes and all is now well. The pedals are £80 now but I snapped them up for £45 in a sale ;-)

Viney

30-08-11, 01:57 PM

I went for a cycle ride yesterday. Downloaded Endomondo app for my phone adn according to that i did 9.4 miles in 40 mins. Not bad for someone who is out of shape...well, round is a shape i suppose.

EssexDave

30-08-11, 04:16 PM

Cycling Plus included the 420 Aero 3 wheels in a recent review and gave them 9/10 :thumbsup:

As for pedals, I started with SPDs and MTB-type shoes but found I was getting pressure-numbness in my toes. Changed to Shimano PD-R670 pedals (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=47601) with stiff-soled shoes and all is now well. The pedals are £80 now but I snapped them up for £45 in a sale ;-)

The wheels on mine aren't the 420 Aero 3 - It's...
http://www.rutlandcycling.com/34012/American-Classic-Carbon-58-Clincher-Wheel-Set---2011.html

They are very pretty, but I was concerned at first after my mate said they look like tubs, further investigation (online for an hour followed by 2 seconds looking at the wheel itself) have confirmed they are clinchers. (Phew) - Whilst tubs sound awesome, I don't fancy not being able to recover from a puncture without a complete spare tyre around.

Viney - Practice practice practice. The first time I road a bike (since I was a kid) was September last year and that was a mountain I rented, I think I did 13 miles in about 2 and a half hours (included lots of stops and fag breaks)

Now I'm doing about 100-150 miles a week, sometimes more and loving it!

maviczap

30-08-11, 07:21 PM

maviczap

30-08-11, 07:51 PM

Few useful bits and bobs at Lidl on Monday

http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg//lidl_uk/hs.xsl/offerdate.htm?offerdate=23877&idcheck=true&ar2=&id=1117&country=GB&zipcode=Felixstowe&city=Suffolk&district=IP11+2BU&street=Langer+Road&ar=2&nf=True

EssexDave

30-08-11, 10:48 PM

krhall

01-09-11, 12:10 PM

Nice bike!

Can anyone suggest a good set of lights for winter commuting?

EssexDave

01-09-11, 02:07 PM

Nice bike!

Can anyone suggest a good set of lights for winter commuting?

I can, they are from China but cheap as chips, I've thrown mine on the road at 25mph and they still work, really bright - gotta be careful not to dazzle other road users...

They do do a wired set which are very good (which I have just ordered for my touring bike as Dipper has them and they are truely astonishing for the cost)

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/ultrafire-th-t60-ha-ii-xm-lt60-5-mode-1200-lumen-white-led-flashlight-with-strap-1-x-18650-57007

That above is a 1200 lumen light - it's a flashlight like all the rest I will like and you need batteries/charger separate.

The 1200 lumen has a very strong beam but quite focused so not a huge spread.

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/fandyfire-501b-ssc-p7-3-mode-900-lumen-white-led-flashlight-with-strap-black-1-x-18650-57985

The 900 lumen enough is what I was using to see where I was going - supeerb coverage and if you want a 1200 - get one of the 900s too for the spread. 2x 900s would see you fine on the road (and you will be mistaken for a motorbike at times) If you're offroad you may want to consider a 1200 too.

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/18650-rechargeable-lithium-lifepo4-battery-2-pack-1350mah-1879

They are the battiers - universal to all the torches. Never had any issues but at that price, I always order more than I need.

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/oem-2-18650-lithium-battery-charger-110v-240v-ac-13820

The battery charger

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/universal-bicycle-mount-8274
Mount for the torches. If you have big handlebars they may not fit but they do another velcro mount which will fit fine.

I just did an order for 2 friends, one purchase a cycling computer, 2x 900 lumen lights, 2 batteries, charger, adapter (as plug on charger is 2 pin) 2 mounts and it came to about £40.

There is ONE issue we've found with the torches which is the soldering is not excellent and we think 2/6 torches have had this issue. Easily fixable and have had no issues since.

Milky Bar Kid

02-09-11, 12:53 PM

OK, my friend has started up a business dealing in all things two-wheeled but engineless.....

I fancy a road bike, not a super duper fancy pants road bike like a lot of you lot have and he has suggest this:

http://www.formebikes.co.uk/bikes/road/preen.php

Firstly, is this a decent bike for the £599 he wants for it? If not, is this:

http://www.raleigh.co.uk/ProductType/ProductRange/Product/Default.aspx?pc=1&pt=14&pg=331.

Answers on a post card please!

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 01:53 PM

Neither of those are road bikes, to qualify as a road bike it must have dropped bars, which neither of those dont, yes I know I am being pedantic, but there you go. Those are hybrids with flat bars on them like that.

Both are entry level and have entry level kit on them, Shimano Sora gears are OK as long as they are setup correctly, but that goes for any groupset.

I'd go to another bike shop and have a look around and compare the bikes they have with what you friend is suggesting. I've never heard of the first manufacturer, but Raleigh are a well known brand...

Mind you I'd reckon you'd get more for your money if you looked at one of the Boardmans from Halfords...

Luckypants

02-09-11, 02:25 PM

Mind you I'd reckon you'd get more for your money if you looked at one of the Boardmans from Halfords...Quite likely or any of the large retailers...

It is end of season sale time and there are bargains to be had...

E.g. two nice Treks from Evans

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/73-fx-2011-hybrid-bike-ec023963

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/7500-2011-hybrid-bike-ec023958#features

Better components and a quality frame for the same sort of money...

Google will come up with some real bargains if you look... I got my MTB half price this time last year...

Milky Bar Kid

02-09-11, 02:41 PM

Well to be honest, I didn't specify to him that I wanted flat bars, he just said that's what I should get. I don't really know a lot about bikes so it's not an easy decision to make. I also thought £600 was a bit much for a first time road bike. I would have been happier with a bit of a smaller budget too.

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 05:46 PM

Well first things first then. What do you actually want to do with it ?

Do you want something to commute / pootle about on or do you want the riding position of a full on road bike with dropped bars ?

As you progress you might find the flat bar bike holds you back a bit, and despite what you might think personally and I'm not the only one who thinks this, is that the drop bars are more comfortable as you have two or three different ways of holding onto the bars.

If your not used to cycling then you want a tripe ( 3 cogs on the front ) or a compact ( 2 chain rings on the front but with low gear range ) either of those will help with climbing / going up hills. You dont want a standard double. Well not just yet anyway.

Sora or Tiagra would be what I would recommend in terms of gears, but theres nothing really that bad with the bottom of the range shimano 2300 it just might take a little more fine tuning to set it up.

Trouble is with bikes is you do get what you pay for, if you buy cheap and get into cycling you might find yourself regretting your choice and wishing you had spent more money. IMHO buy something that has a decent frame to start with, that way you can upgrade stuff later on but keep the frame, rather than having to buy a new bike all over again.

If I were you I would look for something buy one of the big names as Mike suggests, especially this time of year with the bike shops wanting to clear the shelves of 2011 spec bikes to make way for next years models you might find a bargain

So as Mike has suggested

Trek
Specialised
Giant - Giant frames are good and you often get alot of bike for your money
Boardman as I suggested earlier.

Unfortunately with the state of our economy the price of bikes has gone up compared to a couple of years ago.

I would think a reasonable quality starter road bike that you'll actually enjoy and want to ride is unfortunately going to be around the £400 to £500 mark.

Depends how much you actually want to spend, once you've worked out a figure it'll be easier to recommend something to you.

Dont forget because with respect IIRC you are a short ass, you want to find something that fits you and TBH thats more important than anything else. Which is why I said to go to a bike shop and sit of a few bikes and see what the feel like etc etc.

Remember a full on road bike will feel twitchy, unstable and perhaps a litle weird / uncomfortable at first, you will get used to it.

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 05:50 PM

Just so you have something to compare the hybrids / flat bar bikes with

This is Liz's Giant Defy, which is something I would recommend you consider looking at purchasing.

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e344/fizzwheel/DSC_0003-2.jpg

This is my Look, ( you really dont want to go mad with something like this to start with and I am not suggesting you do, its just to give you an idea of what I mean when I say "Road bike" )

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e344/fizzwheel/look/DSC_0289.jpg

Milky Bar Kid

02-09-11, 06:04 PM

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 06:18 PM

Of course your other option in the interim is to fit some slick tyres to your MTB, it'll be easier and faster to ride on the road that way and its much cheaper than spending money on a road bike...

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 06:22 PM

Giant Defy 3 - £494

http://www.ashcycles.com/site/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=3120&language=en

Spes Sectaur - very decent entry level bike but a bit more money than you wanted to spend, but worth the extra IMHO.

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/secteur-sport-2011-road-bike-ec025005

I think the boardman is out of your price range at £699 although the spec is very good for that money.

IMHO the Carrera is worth looking at, but it wouldnt be my first choice TBH.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_81 0601_langId_-1_categoryId_165710

Specialised Allez is also in your price range

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/allez-16-2011-road-bike-ec025025

Trek 1.2 also worth considering albeit a bit more money

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/12-compact-2011-road-bike-ec023940

All these are good starter bikes, I see plenty of them on Sportives, which is the draw back, they are common as everybody has one, but then theres a reason for that i.e. they are good for the money that they retail for.

maviczap

02-09-11, 06:24 PM

Thanks Fizz, that's really helpful. And I'm not that much of a short ****! 5ft6!!!

I think £500 mark is reasonable and I would be willing to spend roughly around that mark. I am trying to get my fitness levels up and I enjoy cycling. Was never off bikes when I was younger. I just fancy a road bike as I already have a MTB.....

I'm in agreement with Fizz & Mike on the selection of bikes, and I would prefer one with drop handlebars, rather than flat handlebars, as it gives you more hand positions, whereas flat only gives you one.

I'd see if your Force does a bike to work scheme, as I know my lot do. Its not as good as it used to be, but still means you can get a better bike, but spread the cost.

Reeder

02-09-11, 06:27 PM

Only thing about the bike to work
Scheme is you lease it. They decide a 'fair market price' at the end of the year for you to buy it don't they? Could it work out more expensive?

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 06:41 PM

Meh, cant believe I left a Ribble of that list. OK a bit over your price range, but definately worth the extra

http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/specialedition.asp?action=GenerateConstructor&part=SERIBB7005RACESHIM&sub=conf_SERC&bike=1

fizzwheel

02-09-11, 06:42 PM

Only thing about the bike to work
Scheme is you lease it. They decide a 'fair market price' at the end of the year for you to buy it don't they? Could it work out more expensive?

Price is normally a "nominal value" based on the fact that its depreciated over the time you've owned it, so no it shouldnt work out more expensive, but it isnt the bargain that its sometimes protrayed as especially now the inland revenue are clamping down on people buying bikes for £1 at the end of the lease period.

But as said its a good way of spreading the cost over time, if you cant afford to buy the bike out right.

Reeder

02-09-11, 06:46 PM

Yeah very good as there's no interest charged I believe? I would like to do it but my company won't join the scheme. I'd like to save up enough for a nice bike by next spring.

maviczap

02-09-11, 07:27 PM

Yeah very good as there's no interest charged I believe? I would like to do it but my company won't join the scheme. I'd like to save up enough for a nice bike by next spring.

You work in accounts I'm sure you can 'invent' your own bike to work scheme ;)

Reeder

02-09-11, 07:37 PM

I doubt it's worth the risk though :P

mattSV

03-09-11, 02:13 PM

Just back from only my second 'proper' ride this year :rolleyes:

38.76 miles in 2:30:06, ave 15.49 mph, max 46.9 mph, 2729 calories burned, 2000 ft climbed.

Left calf started cramping up on the way back so had to stop and stretch it out, and my legs feel like lead now - time for food and a soak in the bath me thinks.

mattSV

03-09-11, 02:14 PM

Price is normally a "nominal value" based on the fact that its depreciated over the time you've owned it, so no it shouldnt work out more expensive, but it isnt the bargain that its sometimes protrayed as especially now the inland revenue are clamping down on people buying bikes for £1 at the end of the lease period.

But as said its a good way of spreading the cost over time, if you cant afford to buy the bike out right.

My last two bikes (Planet X carbon road biked and Boardman full sus mountain bike) I have not had to pay anything at all at the end :cool:

Jabba

03-09-11, 05:01 PM

My last two bikes (Planet X carbon road biked and Boardman full sus mountain bike) I have not had to pay anything at all at the end :cool:

Just had the bill from my employer for my bike at the end of an 18-month CTWS period. £207 :shock:

Fizz is right, HMRC had tighened the rules and there's two "residual value" bands in terms of the % od list price, i.e. sub-£500 and plus £500.

Still cheaper though. My £1100 road bike has cost me about £800 all in. Mind you, I got a 10% discount on the selling price so the starting figure was £987. Still a significant saving, i.e ~20%, even with discounted price. And I didn't have to fork out up front for it.

Jabba

03-09-11, 05:41 PM

Please could someone post a picture of their Ultegra (6700 series) rear mech directly from behind? I have a funny feeling that mine might be bent.

Jockey wheels seem to line up under the sprockets okay but I'm have the devil's own job to set the mech properly. Used to be silent running but I can't seem to adjust it "just right" atm :(

maviczap

03-09-11, 05:42 PM

Give me 5 mins

maviczap

03-09-11, 05:57 PM

Here you go

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-822G_OBNhhY/TmJqVlfhksI/AAAAAAAAARA/p0XhjfJ4eMU/s512/003.JPG

Jabba

03-09-11, 07:18 PM

Hmm...... mine don't look like that :-(

Will post piccy in a few mins.......

Jabba

03-09-11, 07:29 PM

Outside cage don't look straigh, but jockey wheels seem to be inline :confused:

9825

maviczap

03-09-11, 07:45 PM

Yes, it doesn't look right at all. But difficult to know whats happed to it.

I had a similar problem on another bike which I corrected using an adjustable spanner on the cage.

Jockey wheels are in line, but perhaps the mech is twisted,so thats why its noisey now

maviczap

03-09-11, 07:46 PM

looking at the rear mech hanger is that straight?

Had to bend one of those straight on my winter bike, as it wasn't straight when I built the bike up.

Jabba

03-09-11, 08:00 PM

Cheers mate - will let the LBS have a look at it and give a second opinion :thumbsup:

maviczap

03-09-11, 08:04 PM

Aye, the old SIS can be a bit fussy & noisey if the hanger isn't straight, plus that mech isn't right for sure

LBS will have the alignment tools need to check the frame and hanger.

Might need a new mech :(

Jabba

03-09-11, 10:43 PM

LBS will have the alignment tools need to check the frame and hanger.

Might need a new mech :(

The hanger has been straighened once before, after Jabba-jnr knocked the bike over.

I'm thinking new hanger and mech. DIY job as sorting out the shifting isn't so hard :thumbsup:

JamesMio

04-09-11, 10:50 PM

Anyone want a pair of Altura Baggy shorts?

Ok, I've got to admit defeat on these... Bought at the AR (long story, but I had no dry clothes left!), worn that day and once more on the bike, both times with the padding bit out... They just don't fit me!!

Size Large

Cost me a bit more than Wiggle are selling them for (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/altura-ascent-baggy-cycling-short/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=base&utm_campaign=products), but if anyone wants them for £30 posted I'll cut my losses at that?