The Cycling Thread [Archive] - Page 20 - SV650.org

Luckypants

16-01-12, 09:44 AM

Bally chilly 35 miles on Saturday! We rode into some freezing fog where the temperature was down to -4.5C, we all had frost on our clothes and ice on our helmets. :( I also fell off :(:(

It brightened up later in the ride though...

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_-k8mJCTLG8/TxMpzMPyqpI/AAAAAAAAAGk/I4eIgEwEE5M/s410/Winter%2Bride%2B14-01-12%2B2.jpg

krhall

16-01-12, 11:35 AM

Is your LBS trying to make a lot of money from you?

How long you had it?

Wheels, service the bearings & true them if buckled. Only replace them if the rims are worn out or beyond service

The bearing is a sealed unit and part of the wheels, aparently very cheap. Which sort of makes sense as the bike cost me £879 and has a full carbon frame.

I have got the deraileur on warranty and the headset bearings under warranty too. I think the guy was being straight with me. He said that there were places where it looked like it had never been greased, such as the seat post and the headset, where crystal grease should've been used.

I have done quite a few miles on it in all weathers, standing water etc.

stewie

16-01-12, 04:15 PM

Ey up guys, anyone know if the GT avalanche 1.0 is worth a punt, Ive been offered one for £150 in vgc, just had a weekend of walking and riding in the vale of the white horse and kinda fancy doing something other just running all the time, cheers
Stew

Drew Carey

16-01-12, 04:20 PM

Depending on what spec is on it etc they are good bikes. The Avalanche 1 is the mid range of hardtail they do, with the 1 being the best of the Avalanches. Current 2012 model comes with an entry level Rock Shox fork - the XC30 and mostly Diore groupset.

But for £150, I would say that it is a bit of a bargain / depending on age of course and providing it has been well looked after.

stewie

16-01-12, 04:24 PM

Drew Carey

16-01-12, 04:30 PM

Yeah the current Avalanche 1 is £799 new......so providing that the bike is from the last 3-4 years it should be ok spec'd. In fact, it may be better spec'd as companies have dropped spec's a lot rather than price increases this year I believe.

They used to come with RShox Tora's which IMHO are a very underated entry level fork. Either way, frames alone currently sale for about £80-£120 on evilbay.....so worth it me thinks.

This years Spec;

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/gt/avalanche-1-2012-mountain-bike-ec030571

stewie

16-01-12, 04:42 PM

Ive got an old GT Timberline atm, decent enough bike but used a Giant with suspension over the weekend and that was an eye opener in comparison, think I'll ring him :)

maviczap

16-01-12, 05:04 PM

Bally chilly 35 miles on Saturday! We rode into some freezing fog where the temperature was down to -4.5C, we all had frost on our clothes and ice on our helmets. :( I also fell off :(:(

It brightened up later in the ride though...

Sounds like you need some of these ;-)

That's twice

http://www.woollyhatshop.com/images/uploads/Edited%20photos/spokey_joe_stabalisers.jpg

Hope you weren't too bruised

maviczap

16-01-12, 05:11 PM

The bearing is a sealed unit and part of the wheels, aparently very cheap. Which sort of makes sense as the bike cost me £879 and has a full carbon frame. .

Seems a bit shizzle if you can't replace the wheel bearings, I don't really count wheels as a disposable item. :confused:

But as you say the bikes been built to a price, so corners have been cut to meet the price.

So what to go for as a replacement?

Depends if you're still commuting on it, in which case some Shimano or Mavic wheels are pretty good or some decent hand built wheels with stainless spokes.

Don't buy anything too fragile for commuting

EssexDave

16-01-12, 08:15 PM

Did two spin sessions tonight at the gym with a 20 minute break inbetween.

Knackered? Oh yes.

maviczap

16-01-12, 08:56 PM

Bally chilly 35 miles on Saturday! We rode into some freezing fog where the temperature was down to -4.5C, we all had frost on our clothes and ice on our helmets. :( I also fell off :(:(

Did two spin sessions tonight at the gym with a 20 minute break in between. Knackered? Oh yes.

Seems safer than riding on the road, any totty there ;-)

EssexDave

16-01-12, 09:32 PM

Seems safer than riding on the road, any totty there ;-)

You think I go for the cycling :confused::confused::confused:

maviczap

16-01-12, 09:34 PM

Ha Ha Ha

No dedication you young'uns :p

EssexDave

16-01-12, 09:35 PM

In all seriousness though, very very tough workout, was flailing for the last 10 minutes as the instructor wound up with 10 sprints.

Pushed really hard but feel good for it!

krhall

17-01-12, 09:45 AM

Seems a bit shizzle if you can't replace the wheel bearings, I don't really count wheels as a disposable item. :confused:

But as you say the bikes been built to a price, so corners have been cut to meet the price.

So what to go for as a replacement?

Depends if you're still commuting on it, in which case some Shimano or Mavic wheels are pretty good or some decent hand built wheels with stainless spokes.

Don't buy anything too fragile for commuting

I got some Mavic Open wheels, which seem ok and I got a refund for the original wheels (valued at £80), I'm still out of pocket, but this has eased my pain somewhat.

Also had a new derailleur and headset sent to me.

I need to get the chain and cassette now, LBS are quoting £30 for chain and £50 for the cassette.

I have to say through the customer service from Wiggle is SUPERB and much better than I ever expected it to be. The one guy handling the case has kept me updated at every turn and has given me a lot of confidence in Wiggle.

Luckypants

17-01-12, 09:48 AM

Seems safer than riding on the road, <snip>
Really? Taken at our spin class Christmas do the night before (early morning of) that ride.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/405649_10150487923583214_677353213_8866635_9792778 63_n.jpg

maviczap

17-01-12, 05:16 PM

Really? Taken at our spin class Christmas do the night before (early morning of) that ride.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/405649_10150487923583214_677353213_8866635_9792778 63_n.jpg

Ha Ha Ha cracking picture Mike

Thems ain't genuine Oakleys for sure :D

the_lone_wolf

19-01-12, 04:46 PM

Any MTBers still around?

Fancy a little outing?

Could be the "Frozen February Foray" to the previous "Wet Welsh Weekend"

http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=174348

;)

EssexDave

19-01-12, 06:43 PM

Unfortunately I don't own a mountain bike so I believe that's me out :(

maviczap

19-01-12, 07:40 PM

You could ride my cross bike or my other MTB :cheers:

EssexDave

19-01-12, 09:49 PM

Oooh a cross bike :D

I also have almost no experience on the loose stuff :p

Could be fun though and if a bike was provided I may be tempted :D

Luckypants

26-01-12, 04:28 PM

EssexDave

26-01-12, 06:06 PM

That is pretty intense.

Dipper

26-01-12, 06:21 PM

That is pretty intense.

Does that beat your two spin sessions in a row Dave?;)

maviczap

26-01-12, 07:13 PM

I came across this the other day. Lance Armstrong is one of my cycling heroes (including the current mud-slinging) and I am in awe of the speed up this amazingly hard climb IMHO... I climbed this last year at a snail's pace with only 28 (mostly downhill) KM in my legs - These boys had 160 KM then did this!...

SOjm3aqD6V0

Still with signs like this and views like this to spur you on, you generally make it :smt078 <--- me on the big climbs...]

Aah its all familiar now,those bends,those buildings,I'm just glad the weather was much better when we did it.

Don't belittle your ride, as these guys so many km's in their legs by the time they get to the Tour, plus they don't have a job like you and me, all they do is cycling.

Also with the exception of Lance, every single one of those riders who I recognised has been caught or admitted using EPO, which having read David Millar's book, could make a race horses out of a donkey.

There's more than one rider who was a sensation one year and you never saw him again.

That is pretty intense.

Unfortunately my Garmin had a hissy fit on our Hautacam ride and didn't record any data, it would have shown how intense it was, although the Tourmalet was harder.

But I'd do it all again, there isn't anything like doing these climbs that you've seen year after year on the TV. For me it was the equivalent of a footie fan going to Wembley and having a game on the pitch

When I stepped off the plane at Loudes and saw the mountains I was excited & nervous at the same time, and it still gives me a buzz thinking about climbing those mountains.

maviczap

26-01-12, 10:06 PM

Anybody looking for a Garmin, Halfords have got an offer on Garmins, and this is a bargain i think

Includes HR & cadence sensor for £174 after discount

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_83 8429_categoryId_165741_langId_-1?cm_sp=Intelligent_Offer-_-Product_Details_Zone_1-_-Blank&iozone=PDPz1

Luckypants

26-01-12, 11:16 PM

Don't belittle your ride, as these guys so many km's in their legs by the time they get to the Tour, plus they don't have a job like you and me, all they do is cycling.Yeah that is fair enough and it is one of the hardest rides I've done, that day was a struggle...

Unfortunately my Garmin had a hissy fit on our Hautacam ride and didn't record any data, it would have shown how intense it was, although the Tourmalet was harder.

My HR data for the ride does not look to impressive, but 72KM including a big climb is not to shabby :cool:

https://www.polarpersonaltrainer.com/shared/exercise.ftl?shareTag=016614edcca2d7814ad1a9195d16 4686

krhall

27-01-12, 09:24 AM

Long story short rear derailleur broke (totally) last night so I need to get a new one.

A) What is the difference between medium and short cage?
B) Will this suffice? http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sp/road-track-bike/105-Black-5700-10-Speed-Rear-Derailleur/SHIMGRRR530?utm_campaign=Googlebase&utm_medium=organic&utm_source=Googlebase

maviczap

27-01-12, 09:27 AM

Short cage will only cope with a maximum difference of sprocket sizes, ie a close ratio cassette (12 - 23) at the back and a double front

Medium cage will cope with a big casstte ie 12 - 28 & probably a triple front chainring

krhall

27-01-12, 09:31 AM

Oh...erm what do I have?

2 rings at the front and 10 at the back...

Am starting to think that a carbon fibre bike is the wrong tool for my commute, am I right? It is in the garage in an unrideable state at the moment!

maviczap

27-01-12, 09:34 AM

What size is the biggest sprocket at the back? I'm going to guess at 23.

The carbon frame will be up to it, but will probably have a shorter lifespan than a steeel or alu frame

krhall

27-01-12, 09:46 AM

I think 25T?

Will I need a new derailleur hanger too?

maviczap

27-01-12, 09:57 AM

Sorry just read the spec, the short cage will cope with a maximum of 16 teeth on the front so 53 - 39 or 50 - 34

You'll only need a new hanger if the original one is fubarred

krhall

27-01-12, 10:04 AM

So a medium is what I need...hanger is absolutely fubarred the derailleur ended up facing skywards!!!

Will any hanger do?

Drew Carey

27-01-12, 10:06 AM

Am starting to think that a carbon fibre bike is the wrong tool for my commute, am I right? It is in the garage in an unrideable state at the moment!

If you have fairly decent road conditions - ie not too many potholes etc, then provide its cleaned and maintained it should be fine to commute on.

However, if like me, the roads are cratered and really bad condition everywhere - may be worth contemplating changing and keeping the bike for fun weekend rides etc.

I tried Lily's Hybrid and with some of the road conditions even that was a nightmare to use. Therefore I now use my hardtail MTB. I have bought some semi-slick 26" tyres so still is quite quick. It has the added bonus that I don't have to swerve around potholes etc as can just go over them, plus the whole bike is more rugged so withstands the continual beating better than a race or Hybrid. Just my view though.

maviczap

27-01-12, 10:23 AM

So a medium is what I need...hanger is absolutely fubarred the derailleur ended up facing skywards!!!

Will any hanger do?

You won't have any issues with the medium.

You will need a new specific hanger for your frame. Its a Focus isn't it, so one for a Focus frame should do.

krhall

27-01-12, 11:04 AM

You won't have any issues with the medium.

You will need a new specific hanger for your frame. Its a Focus isn't it, so one for a Focus frame should do.

Guess what - rare as rocking horse poo!

Dipper

27-01-12, 11:29 AM

If you have fairly decent road conditions - ie not too many potholes etc, then provide its cleaned and maintained it should be fine to commute on.

However, if like me, the roads are cratered and really bad condition everywhere - may be worth contemplating changing and keeping the bike for fun weekend rides etc.

I tried Lily's Hybrid and with some of the road conditions even that was a nightmare to use. Therefore I now use my hardtail MTB. I have bought some semi-slick 26" tyres so still is quite quick. It has the added bonus that I don't have to swerve around potholes etc as can just go over them, plus the whole bike is more rugged so withstands the continual beating better than a race or Hybrid. Just my view though.

+1 on that, I wouldn't use my road bike for the commute and use an old MTB with huge mudguards, looks cr*p but never have to clean it and use cheap 7 speed parts (though not poor quality) to maintain it. Still manage 15mph+ averages over an 11 mile commute on a bike that weighs 15- 20kg loaded.

Drew Carey

27-01-12, 11:37 AM

+1 on that, I wouldn't use my road bike for the commute and use an old MTB with huge mudguards, looks cr*p but never have to clean it and use cheap 7 speed parts (though not poor quality) to maintain it. Still manage 15mph+ averages over an 11 mile commute on a bike that weighs 15- 20kg loaded.

Yup, I have the added benefit of no gears - as converted mine to single speed. Thus cleaning and maintenance takes me 5-10 mins each weekend. I still average around 11mph on my 10mile commute, but thats only because I have a mahoosive hill to go up and over on way in and way out! lol

It was the same average as on the hybrid, I just work harder......I found having extra gears was making me lazy!!! :D

I found a Crud Catcher front and rear and a fork spray protector a god send too.

maviczap

27-01-12, 11:42 AM

Guess what - rare as rocking horse poo!

Surely your LBS can get you one :confused:

fizzwheel

27-01-12, 12:21 PM

Well my look stood up to a Summer of regular commutes / training rides with no problems at all. I'm using it again at the moment as I cant be bothered fishing the single speed out of the garage, All I've done is fit a set of crud guards to keep the cack off it and its much nicer to ride than my single speed is.

Dipper

27-01-12, 01:00 PM

The thing I found was even with full guards the chain was still getting a pounding with crud and not lasting. My commute's a bit mixed, nearly all paved but some of the lanes in a bad state. I made a rubber mudflap (don't laugh too hard:p) that nearly touches the ground at the front and now I can bomb through puddles and crud at full pelt, feet and bike stay clean and dry:D Huge plus side for me is bombing though puddles cleans the crud off.

.......I just couldn't bring myself to put my Tifosi though that sort of stuff, plus I'd be getting weekly punctures.

fizzwheel

27-01-12, 01:43 PM

The thing I found was even with full guards the chain was still getting a pounding with crud and not lasting.

The rear Crud Catcher 2 guard has a flap that extends behind the downtube that protects the front mech and it seems to direct alot of spray and crud away from the chain.

TBH I am a bit OCD with my stuff and in the winter I will clean the chain twice a week or sometimes after every ride if its been a particularly nasty.

Same sort of commute, mostly back lanes or country B roads so plenty of mud and grime on a wet day to contend with.

Its that same thing about looking after what you use, if you ride it every day you need to either stay on top of the maintenance or buy a hack that you dont care about...

Dipper

27-01-12, 01:59 PM

Its that same thing about looking after what you use, if you ride it every day you need to either stay on top of the maintenance or buy a hack that you dont care about...

Absolutely, unfortunately I've never been good at keeping things clean, good intentions and all that but likewise really anal about maintenance, IMO you have to be if you don't want it to let you down on a pitch black night in the middle of nowhere.

maviczap

27-01-12, 02:28 PM

Yes, back roads round here are covered in mud & cow poo from farm vehicles.

I usually spray everything with WD40 or Gt85 after a ride and give it a proper clean every so often.

My winter bike isn't getting abused like your commuter bikes are and the only way to really beat the muck is to have a sealed hub gear system, with a belt drive or fully enclosed chain

Dipper

27-01-12, 04:45 PM

I've heard WD40 isn't very good for chains, too much solvent, I've been using chainsaw oil and some say ATF is the best thing but not sure if I really want to enter into the whole chain lube debate:s

Drew Carey

27-01-12, 04:53 PM

I've heard that about WD40 also, I use the wet chain lube that comes in a little black and green bottle - can't remember the make. It gets everywhere and makes a mess - but, I find it easy to wash off with a good bucket of hot soapy water and a sponge. I just clean it down on a weekend in 5-10 mins and job done.

On the full sus however, I use the wax etc, as then I am not forever cleaning the MTB too much. When the salt goes away, I will probably then use wax on my commuter too - that way I won't have to clean every weekend but every so often in stead.

maviczap

27-01-12, 05:35 PM

I've heard WD40 isn't very good for chains, too much solvent, I've been using chainsaw oil and some say ATF is the best thing but not sure if I really want to enter into the whole chain lube debate:s

I've heard that about WD40 also, I use the wet chain lube that comes in a little black and green bottle - can't remember the make. It gets everywhere and makes a mess - but, I find it easy to wash off with a good bucket of hot soapy water and a sponge. I just clean it down on a weekend in 5-10 mins and job done.

On the full sus however, I use the wax etc, as then I am not forever cleaning the MTB too much. When the salt goes away, I will probably then use wax on my commuter too - that way I won't have to clean every weekend but every so often in stead.

WD is only bad for chains with O rings, and cycle chains don't have O rings, so its not too bad & its a water dispersant. But I prefer GT85, depends what's nearest to hand when I get into the garage. :D

ATF is a little too thick and will gum up the works & grit will stick to it.

Wax based lubes are the best, wet or dry versions

But I've found wax is best applied to a clean chain, so i don't apply it after every ride

maviczap

27-01-12, 09:12 PM

Ok, just caught this on the Tv tonight

'On Hannibal's trail'

3 guys cycling Hannibal's trail from Spain to Rome. Tonight's was a bit of the Pyrenees, but next week its Mount Ventoux and the Alps.

Better than most of the Friday night Tv

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00t6skb

Luckypants

28-01-12, 05:21 PM

Winter rides are starting to get some hills in them ready for summer :( 50 miles today including the horrible drag up Butterfly Hill on the A5 and then back over the Horseshoe Pass. Then to cap it all as I had ridden from home today I had the hill back up to mine at the end of the ride.... burning thighs today!

Must be feeling frisky though, I cleaned the bike and ordered some stuff from Wiggle as well!

EssexDave

28-01-12, 05:38 PM

Good effort.

Day off for me today, will be out tomorrow with Dipper though. :)

pookie

29-01-12, 10:36 AM

I 'm just putting together a road bike and was wondering what your views are on rear cassettes.
I'm using shimano drivetrain and this will be the first time in a while since I rode a "racer". I see they have 12t 25 and 12t 28 teeth. I'm have a double up front and reasonably unfit. I was wondering what I should consider when choosing the rear cassette? any help gratefully received.

EssexDave

29-01-12, 10:59 AM

12-25.

Might find it a bit harder for the first few rides, but I have a bike with compact up front and a 12-28 and it's hell when you start shifting, can never find the right gear and I rarely need the 28.

I'd definately go for a 12-25

fizzwheel

29-01-12, 11:32 AM

I was wondering what I should consider when choosing the rear cassette? any help gratefully received.

How hilly is it where you live and how good are you at climbing ?

I run a 12-27 on the back with a 39 - 53 on the front, its enough so I can get up all the local hills in my area.

For Sportives, especially the ones I have done over Dartmoor and Exmoor I swap the front double for a compact which is a 50 - 34, so my lowest gear then is 34 x 27 which is enough to get me up a 25% gradient.

12 - 25 in a flat area with a double gives a nice close spread of gears and as EssexDave says, avoids playiing the front chainring two step where you keep shifting all the time to find the "right" gear.

12 - 27 is almost as good, but gives a slightly lower top gear and its hilly where I live so thats why I run that.

EssexDave

29-01-12, 11:34 AM

How hilly is it where you live and how good are you at climbing ?

I run a 12-27 on the back with a 39 - 53 on the front, its enough so I can get up all the local hills in my area.

For Sportives, especially the ones I have done over Dartmoor and Exmoor I swap the front double for a compact which is a 50 - 34, so my lowest gear then is 34 x 27 which is enough to get me up a 25% gradient.

12 - 25 in a flat area with a double gives a nice close spread of gears and as EssexDave says, avoids playiing the front chainring two step where you keep shifting all the time to find the "right" gear.

12 - 27 is almost as good, but gives a slightly lower top gear and its hilly where I live so thats why I run that.

He's in Essex so I assumed (maybe incorrectly) that most of your riding will be relatively flat.

I know we have some hills, but nothing 25% :D

I should say, I have a triple on the front with a 11-23. (I know it's not cool)

I do not need it anymore. It was back when I started cycling and couldn't get up a 0.00005% incline without struggling out of the saddle in my lowest gear. Now I rarely use the 34T on the front and have a 39/50 that I basically use.

When I upgrade I will get a 34/50 and a 39/53.

maviczap

29-01-12, 11:43 AM

Yep, 12 - 25 would be the way to go, there's less big gaps between the ratio's making it easier to find a comfortable gear.

Even if you have to do some/part of the rides in the little front chainring 12 - 25 will be fine for Essex

pookie

29-01-12, 01:39 PM

cheers for the info guys..will get the rest of the parts over the week and get on with riding the thing :)

Dipper

29-01-12, 07:46 PM

cheers for the info guys..will get the rest of the parts over the week and get on with riding the thing :)
When you do you you're welcome to join me and Dave:D

PM if you're interested.

Jabba

29-01-12, 08:08 PM

I have a compact 50-34 on the front and an Ultegra 28-11 (10sp) cassette on the rear. I swapped to that rear cassette from a 25-11 105 cassette.

The highest 8 gears on the two cassettes are the same. The second lowest gear is 24-teeth, so only a midge's wotsit higher than the lowest on the other cassette. The 28-tooth cog gives a bail-out gear ratio of 1.214 which isn't a lot different from the 1.2 ratio which a 30-tooth front triple with a 25-tooth rear would give (but without the extra weight of the triple).

I'm not the strongest rider and there are proper hills in Wales. It works for me ;-)

pookie

30-01-12, 09:32 AM

Dipper

30-01-12, 10:07 AM

not sure if its already been posted but came across ribble when looking for bits for my build.. They have extended the jan sale til 31st jan. http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/

Seems to be good prices when they take off addition 25%.

You coluld try http://www.rosebikes.co.uk/ £4 carriage, 2-3 day delivery from Germany, their standard pricing on most components is in general cheaper than the best special offers you can get here.

pookie

30-01-12, 10:41 AM

cheers will have a looky

maviczap

30-01-12, 06:47 PM

You coluld try http://www.rosebikes.co.uk/ £4 carriage, 2-3 day delivery from Germany, their standard pricing on most components is in general cheaper than the best special offers you can get here.

And you can order a big fat catalogue, although its all in German.

Aber das sind kein problem fur mich :p

Luckypants

31-01-12, 12:12 PM

Any recommendations of a new chain to fit my Ultegra 6700 equipped summer steed?

Also need one for my winter bike, think it's got 10-speed Sora on it.

EDIT: Anyone got feedback on KMC chains?

EssexDave

31-01-12, 01:59 PM

Talking of recommendations:

I'm considering a fast touring bike.

Ideally, Ally frame, lugs for a rack, drop bars. Mudguard clearance a bonus but can live without.

maviczap

31-01-12, 07:18 PM

Any recommendations of a new chain to fit my Ultegra 6700 equipped summer steed?
Also need one for my winter bike, think it's got 10-speed Sora on it.

EDIT: Anyone got feedback on KMC chains?

Sora will be 9 speed LP

I've used the Clarkes self lubing chains from Halfrauds, in fact I changed one on the litespeed not long ago.

Certainly seems to glide nicely over the sprockets, and change smoothly plus its a nice blingy goldish colour. :cool:

Its as good if not slightly better than the Ultegra that came with the groupset that I fitted to the Wilier.

I brought a couple of 9 speed ones and a 10 speed one off evilbay for a lot less than I paid at Halfrauds, or any of the other on line retailers. They come with a quicklink, so I've got no complaints.

I've got some KMC quick links and their chains must be ok, but these Clarkes ones are fine.

maviczap

31-01-12, 07:19 PM

Talking of recommendations:

I'm considering a fast touring bike.

Ideally, Ally frame, lugs for a rack, drop bars. Mudguard clearance a bonus but can live without.

Ribble Audax frame?

EssexDave

01-02-12, 10:33 AM

Ribble Audax frame?

I've heard it's quite poor and that a lot of people don't get on with the geometry? Could be making it up..

Luckypants

01-02-12, 11:10 AM

One of my riding buddies bought one for a winter bike. He loves it and it is a solid thing, with full mud guards and braze ones for racks. Seems to work very well.

Drew Carey

03-02-12, 09:54 AM

Grrrrrrrrrrr.......rant time, why is it people are so impatient!!!

Riding along, up hill on a 40mph dual carriageway with a cycle lane. Halfway up the hill is a burst water pipe within the pavement that has been going for ages - with water spilling out into the cycle lane and going down the cycle lane downhill. As I knew what was coming up, I put my arm out, looked over my shoulder - to which the car behind me kindly realised why I was going to pull out of the cycle lane and pulled into the outside lane.........

However, prat head driver behind the nice driver clearly thought they could squeeze through.......proceding to floor it, clipping my wheel with their bumper and speeding off......

This left me being flung onto the ice, bike going from under me and me struggling like bambi to get up before anyone runs me over in their morning dozeyness.

Never got the reg number and all the other cars just carried on driving by. Luckily only grazes and stiff arm / leg, no damage to bike. Just really got me fuming that some people can be that impatient.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Rant over.

Dipper

03-02-12, 10:31 AM

Sorry to hear that Drew, glad you're OK, what a complete t**t! May be worth reporting it to the Police, they have to take it seriously as there was contact, you were injured and the driver left the scene. With any luck you'll recognise the car another day and get the number.

Jabba

03-02-12, 10:40 AM

Oh man..... there are some a-holes about. Glad you're relatively ok.

Report the water leak? Gonna be a death-trap in this weather :thumbsup:

Drew Carey

03-02-12, 10:44 AM

Cheers.....If I had been hurt worse, or damage to bike / gear - would have called police, but was more worried about a meeting at work @ 9am!!! How sad is that!!! lol

I was thinking about the leak, who should I go to? Council or Water Co?

The thing is, even if he had waited - would have held him up for approx 2 seconds......is that really worth it?!?!? Makes no sense - idiots like that should not be on the road in my view.

Dipper

03-02-12, 11:55 AM

The thing is, even if he had waited - would have held him up for approx 2 seconds......is that really worth it?!?!? Makes no sense - idiots like that should not be on the road in my view.
Indeed but unfortunatly they are, here's one that happened to me a year or so ago, overtook approaching a blind bend, over double whites forcing the oncoming 4x4 onto the pavement.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOuSESgkDY0&list=FLd3WRuhy_P74sPpPIEgm-NA&feature=mh_lolz

maviczap

03-02-12, 05:19 PM

EssexDave

03-02-12, 05:41 PM

Sorry to hear this Drew, if it was me I'd be looking to sue for the damaged clothing as the burst pipe is someone's responsibility.

Its where you need CTC membership to engage one of their lawyers to fight your cause.

If you aren't member of the CTC its a good idea, because I think their legal services are free for members, worth it, if you commute regularly on yoour bike

Option two is British cycling - I think they offer the same level or insurance and legal service (but check first!)

Their membership is £24per year, but you can get £10 cashback from www.topcashback.com but if you sign up please let me know and I can get you a referal link so I can get some money too :D

maviczap

03-02-12, 06:32 PM

Option two is British cycling - I think they offer the same level or insurance and legal service (but check first!)

Their membership is £24per year, but you can get £10 cashback from www.topcashback.com but if you sign up please let me know and I can get you a referal link so I can get some money too :D

Good post Dave, I need to sort some insurance out & I've got a topcash back account.

For £14 you'd be daft not to have some insurance

Send me your link, plus I'll see if any of my colleagues want to sign up

maviczap

04-02-12, 05:01 PM

Right as Dave's a bit slow in posting up the link, here it is

http://www.topcashback.co.uk/british-cycling/

There's various levels of insurance cover, starting at £13.50, but don't know if you get £10 back on that. If you do, that £3.50 for free legal advice, which all the levels of membership have.

Plus discount of 12.5 at Wiggle & 40% off AA membership

Luckypants

06-02-12, 12:01 PM

Contador has been given a 2 year ban and stripped of 2010 TDF title.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/feb/06/alberto-contador-ban-tour-cycling

maviczap

06-02-12, 01:01 PM

So Wiggo moves up to 3rd by default, the highest placed Brit ever.

I doubt he'd have wanted it this way, but another cheat out the door?

I'm sure he'll appeal though

Luckypants

06-02-12, 01:27 PM

Can't see an appeal going anywhere, this must have all been worked out behind closed doors as this has rumbled on for 12 months longer than necessary...

maviczap

06-02-12, 01:32 PM

Yep, gone on far too long

Maybe he wasn't doped up this year, so didn't go as well in TDF.

Never mind, we've got Valverde back on the scene, unrepentant. He's going to be as popular as Vino

EssexDave

06-02-12, 07:49 PM

So if anybody does want to sign up for topcashback - http://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/svdave

I think I get £10 if you sign up and buy something :)

maviczap

06-02-12, 07:55 PM

EssexDave

08-02-12, 01:11 PM

Sunday 12th Feb - CTC reliability ride 75 miles from Wickford (Essex)

I will be going subject to a lack of ice on our roads.

Anybody care to join?

maviczap

08-02-12, 01:17 PM

Fraid not, as I'm working

I chickened out yesterday, I was going to go out for a ride on my MTB, but the thought of country lanes and frozen spikey melted then frozen snow, did not appeal.

So did about 40 mins in the garage on the turbo, and that was pretty bloody cold mind.

EssexDave

08-02-12, 01:21 PM

maviczap

08-02-12, 01:25 PM

that sounds pretty good dave

EssexDave

08-02-12, 01:39 PM

Trying my best! I would struggle to keep that up for any longer than the 7 miles and is a relatively flat course.

Once the weather clears up I'm looking forward to some longer rides. I'm bored of being cold on every ride now!

maviczap

08-02-12, 01:56 PM

Once the weather clears up I'm looking forward to some longer rides. I'm bored of being cold on every ride now!

Me too, although I fancy Lanzerote right now, as I'm fed up with this cold & damp weather :(

EssexDave

08-02-12, 01:57 PM

Org training camp?

Luckypants

08-02-12, 02:05 PM

I went out saturday just gone to test the waters on my speed.

Did a 3 mile warm up, then started going on an out and back course. Was 7 miles total, after the first half, I was averaging 24.9mph, but slowing to turn around, and lagging a bit on the way back took my overall average to 22ish (can't remember quite off the top of my head).

Was pretty please - but still want to get fasterrr!

Roll on summer.

That's good on your own Dave. :D

By contrast I went out for a 50 miler on Sunday with an average 22.4kph (14mph) over a hilly course. It was pretty slow but good to get on some hills, 700m total climbing. My best average for this course is 26.4kph (16.5mph). I'll be looking for a better PB this summer...

Dipper

08-02-12, 02:37 PM

Looks as though the weather is going to warm up but be unsettled for the last part of February in this part of the country so there could be some good days to get out ahead.......fingers crossed.

Anyone fancy meeting up for an "Essex Boys" ride sometime soon?

maviczap

08-02-12, 02:40 PM

Busy busy busy

Off to Wales for the MTB weekend, so long as the weather ain't tooooooo bad

EssexDave

15-02-12, 07:49 AM

Cycled in to work today - was lovely! Temperature just right, and pretty quick pace.

My friend was behind me and only downside was to (apparently) nearly being hit by a mondeo driver from behind. I was sitting at 26/27ish behind a Ka with a car spaced gap (but no space for another car in this gap)

Mondeo floors it, to realise there is no gap, I can hear him doing this and start to think about where I'm going to but but he brakes quite hard and just nearly hits me instead.

Idiot.

Jabba

15-02-12, 04:18 PM

Sounds to me like you guys are doing well - those speeds are better than mine at the best of times :-)

I'm off the bike until end of next month. Double-fracture of the middle toe on my right foot 10 days ago :-( Accident in the bedroom ;) Can hardly walk let alone cycle :rolleyes:

Will be commuting to work by bike from 1st April - not far (3.5miles each way) but I'll do it on a heavy hybrid with fat tyres so I have to work a bit :-)

Enjoy your bikes and stay safe

maviczap

15-02-12, 04:25 PM

Accident in the bedroom ;)

Over doing it in the bedroom Olympics :)

GWS, at least its not the nicest time of year to be biking, although all the snow has gone & its a bit warmer today.

Jabba

15-02-12, 04:36 PM

Over doing it in the bedroom Olympics :)

Unfortunately not! Kicked the leg of the bed (rather hard) after turning the light out. Honest ;-)

GWS, at least its not the nicest time of year to be biking, although all the snow has gone & its a bit warmer today.

That point is not lost on me :-)

Have been off work for last two weeks so taken the opportunity to fettle the "noble steed" (clean, polish, lube, fit new SwissStop GHPII pads, put new cassette and Schwalbe Ultremo ZX HDs onto new ProLite Bracciano Wheels (can't wait to give 'em a go - they're soooo light :-)) and generally tweak everything). First ride hopefully on Good Friday :-)

Need to train for Dragon Ride, a long weekend away with the lads and maybe The Etape du Cymru...