The Cycling Thread

[phi-dan]

And the next challenge is buying a new BB, you have to scroll through a lot of a pages before reaching bike parts when you Google "replace ISIS"

Sent from my XT1068 using Tapatalk

[maviczap]

I jumped the Isis phase and i guess Shimano saw it coming when they introduced the external bb, and lost that system with religious connotations :-)

if you buy one, do you get the anti terrorism squad knocking at your door :-)

[carelesschucca]

ISIS??? What is this ISIS you speak of... You do realise this thread is now under close scrutiny from the government right now... Can the mods please encrypt it while we still can :)

Hoping to get out at some point over the weekend and been advised to try this (https://goo.gl/maps/Gyzpbp27d6B2)route. I know you guys don't know the area but can you give me rough opinions :)

[MattCollins]

The only thing I'd query is the exposure to traffic. Some look like main roads in your area.

When planning routes I try as much as possible to keep to roads with a 50mph or less limit, stay off the busiest roads and where I am on busy roads look for those with room to play nice with traffic.

[maviczap]

ISIS??? What is this ISIS you speak of... You do realise this thread is now under close scrutiny from the government right now... Can the mods please encrypt it while we still can :)

Just for the clarity of GCHQ, this is the ISIS we're reffering to

http://www.moruyabicycles.com.au/contents/media/truvativ%20howitzer%20xr.jpg

Shimano's attempt at forcing everyone to adopt their bottom bracket standard, which didn't really work, as it wasn't that much better than square taper axles.

In fact probably much more expensive to produce, than the square taper.

The new external standard is much simpler, cheaper & stiffer than the old stuff.

[andrewsmith]

Nope your all infidels and will be put on a glass plane!!

sent with all the fury of a clogged drain!!

[AJC]

Been considering picking up a cheap second hand road bike. So going to go have a look at this tomorrow night:

https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/trek-roadbike/1141530410

Thoughts?

[carelesschucca]

I wouldn't know how to fix the gear issue and it looks like its had quite a life :)

But thats coming from someone that knows what a bike looks like and not much more :)

[AJC]

Yeah I don't know a huge amount about it either, even with some googling. I do want something I don't have to care about. So long as the frame is decent and the wheels are true I am happy to fix the other bits.

[maviczap]

Been considering picking up a cheap second hand road bike. So going to go have a look at this tomorrow night:

https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/trek-roadbike/1141530410

Thoughts?

Apart from that disgusting stem, which wouldn't be allowed in 'The rules', it doesn't look too bad.

Gear issues, could be simple as a stuck cable or corrosion in the mech pivots

I wouldn't know how to fix the gear issue and it looks like its had quite a life :)

But thats coming from someone that knows what a bike looks like and not much more :)

:p

[carelesschucca]

You've answered you're question then... :)

I'm that bored being off ill that I had started checking out a route for a 4/5 day cycling holiday late next year. Idea was cycle to Malaig and get the Train back, or even do it the other way round. I'd certainly need to get my fitness levels up to even think about doing it...

[maviczap]

On closer inspection, I wouldn't give more than £50 for it. It isn't rare, Trek sold loads like that, and the frame is nothing special.

New cables all round, new chain, new handle bar tape and probably new headset bearings

[AJC]

On closer inspection, I wouldn't give more than £50 for it. It isn't rare, Trek sold loads like that, and the frame is nothing special.

New cables all round, new chain, new handle bar tape and probably new headset bearings

Cool thanks. After a good while of googling I was coming round to that conclusion. it looks like this:

http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?year=2001&brand=Trek&model=5200

But clearly isn't, being aluminium framed not carbon. I was thinking it is probably the base model of that series but I cant find it online.

[maviczap]

Cool thanks. After a good while of googling I was coming round to that conclusion. it looks like this:

http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?year=2001&brand=Trek&model=5200

But clearly isn't, being aluminium framed not carbon. I was thinking it is probably the base model of that series but I cant find it online.

No its not that one. Trek traded on the 'Armstrong' look, painted all their bikes the same as his team issue one, which was a good marketing ploy :)

Not so good now is it :p

If it was the OLCV carbon, it would have been a nice bike. But my guess it'll be 7005 alloy at best. As its got 105 groupset it must have been a mid range bike.

Those alloy frames can make your fillings fall out :)

[AJC]

You've answered you're question then... :)

I'm that bored being off ill that I had started checking out a route for a 4/5 day cycling holiday late next year. Idea was cycle to Malaig and get the Train back, or even do it the other way round. I'd certainly need to get my fitness levels up to even think about doing it...

Sounds like fun, I would choose which way to go by working out the prevailing wind direction :)

[AJC]

No its not that one. Trek traded on the 'Armstrong' look, painted all their bikes the same as his team issue one, which was a good marketing ploy :)

Not so good now is it :p

If it was the OLCV carbon, it would have been a nice bike. But my guess it'll be 7005 alloy at best. As its got 105 groupset it must have been a mid range bike.

Those alloy frames can make your fillings fall out :)

Yeah, and I never liked Lance in the first place, but I do like the look of the frame/bike. Still no idea what model or year it is, guessing around 2001.

Thanks for the advice, now to tell the bloke I'm probably not going to bother :)

[carelesschucca]

Sounds like fun, I would choose which way to go by working out the prevailing wind direction :)

I'm trying to think about the blooming hills. Hadn't thought about wind, hadn't thought about trying to get over Rannoch Moor into a headwind :smt119

But I'm really just wasting time. Its better than looking at naughty things on the internet.

[AJC]

I'm trying to think about the blooming hills. Hadn't thought about wind, hadn't thought about trying to get over Rannoch Moor into a headwind :smt119

But I'm really just wasting time. Its better than looking at naughty things on the internet.

I always look at the wind. Hills don't bother me so much but cycling into the wind makes me want to cry! I thought looking at naughty things on the internet was pretty hard to beat!

Anyways closest I could find to being that bike originally is this:

http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?year=2001&brand=Trek&model=2200+Triple

except that one has carbon forks and the ad doesn't mention em. Mind you the ad says it has 21 gears when it clearly has 27 so I wouldn't massively trust the guys knowledge...

Will keep looking, Likely to spend up to £200 on a decent-ish used road bike.

[AJC]

Like this:

https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/btwin-triban-5-road-bike/1141556745

That seems decent. Cor I am being annoying tonight aren't I!? Haha

[carelesschucca]

I'd say yes to that, its a way better proposition than the Trek. I'll see you out on the roads then :)

[carelesschucca]

You're a bad man Alan, I've started looking at bikes but this did give me a laugh, I wonder how it handles :)

https://ssli.ebayimg.com/00/s/NzY4WDEwMjQ=/z/-YUAAOSwT5tWP45u/$_86.JPG

[AJC]

Oh man, haha. Took me a minute to work that out as well. Someone wants to tell em!

There are some great bargains to be had on the old Gumtree, plenty of good MTB's on there :p

[maviczap]

It'll turn quick with a bit of wheel/ toe overlap :D

[maviczap]

Like this:

https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/btwin-triban-5-road-bike/1141556745

That seems decent. Cor I am being annoying tonight aren't I!? Haha

Yes, that looks better value & looked after

[phi-dan]

That's the same road bike I have (aforementioned bottom bracket woes are on the mountain bike) and I really like it. Got rave reviews in the press when it was first launched on account of excellent value for money.

Sent from my XT1068 using Tapatalk

[MattCollins]

Like this:

https://www.gumtree.com/p/bicycles/btwin-triban-5-road-bike/1141556745

That seems decent. Cor I am being annoying tonight aren't I!? Haha



... so how tall are you?

[AJC]

Yeah seems good value and reviews also look good. I am somewhere between 5ft 10 and 11 :)

[MattCollins]

Okay, I am thinking that frame (57cm) will be a bit big for you - they are a short frame geometry and 53-55cm would be about right if you are proportioned normally.
It is the sort of bike to look for though.

[AJC]

Yeah I thought that but had a look at b'twins sizing guide and the 57 is apparently for 5ft 9 and up with 32-34 inch inside leg, I am 32 inside leg. So hopefully it should fit but if it don't I will keep looking. Cheers!

[maviczap]

Okay, I am thinking that frame (57cm) will be a bit big for you - they are a short frame geometry and 53-55cm would be about right if you are proportioned normally.
It is the sort of bike to look for though.

Agreed, I'm about 5' 10" but with long legs for the length of my torso

Biggest frame I can use is a 56, but all of my fleet are 54's, as the top tube are shorter, also about 54.

[AJC]

Yeah I would generally be looking for a 55cm or thereabouts but the sizing guide says 57 will fit:


http://www.btwin.com/notices/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Taille_Velo_EN.pdf


Looks like it should fit height from 175cm - 184cm and I am 179cm. But I won't buy if it feels like it doesn't fit :)


Edit: Also looking at that, the frame size might just be a number and pretty random. I have jeans which are 30" waist and some are 34" and they all seem to fit.

[maviczap]

57 may fit, although you might need to compromise by getting a shorter stem to get comfortable, which has an effect on the steering, but you won't be as aero, which can be more comfortable on longer rides.

All these generic frame sizes are always a bit of a compromise, because we're not all built the same, position is tuned by changing parts or lengths, to achieve the optimum position.

Even a custom bespoke frame will be built to your size, but using the thoughts of the frame builder dependant on what you tell him you want, so even then every frame will be different from the other.

[AJC]

Te be fair at this moment in time I will be after comfort more than aero position. I wouldn't mind a shorter lighter stem if I am feeling stretched. Who needs steering anyways! :p

As I was saying to Deano last night, I am after something I don't need to worry about too much over the winter and if I get back into it I will buy something else next summer. Still kinda wish I didn't sell my Bianchi 928 but it was the best thing to do at the time.

[maviczap]

Aye, comfort over speed is usually better :-)

[MattCollins]

Agreed, I'm about 5' 10" but with long legs for the length of my torso

Biggest frame I can use is a 56, but all of my fleet are 54's, as the top tube are shorter, also about 54.

Well, I'm 182cm with approximately 83-84cm inseam and I'm riding a 55cm frame. That is 55cm to the horizontal line through the front of the top tube. The actual seat tube length is 52cm centre to top. First thought might be that I have a lot of seat post or I'm riding low, but neither is the case.

Arguably the most important measurement with frame heights and design philosophies all over the shop these days is the top tube length and that was what was used to size the frame.
As you say, it is usually better to go for the slightly longer stem. It'll steer better and have better hands on stability than the shorter stem, plus the bike is going to be a hair lighter, stiffer and more responsive with a smaller frame.

[maviczap]

Okay, I am thinking that frame (57cm) will be a bit big for you - they are a short frame geometry and 53-55cm would be about right if you are proportioned normally.
It is the sort of bike to look for though.

Well, I'm 182cm with approximately 83-84cm inseam and I'm riding a 55cm frame. That is 55cm to the horizontal line through the front of the top tube. The actual seat tube length is 52cm centre to top. First thought might be that I have a lot of seat post or I'm riding low, but neither is the case.

Arguably the most important measurement with frame heights and design philosophies all over the shop these days is the top tube length and that was what was used to size the frame.
As you say, it is usually better to go for the slightly longer stem. It'll steer better and have better hands on stability than the shorter stem, plus the bike is going to be a hair lighter, stiffer and more responsive with a smaller frame.


I agree with that, but as I've found, a too smaller frame means a short headtube. Which means too much stack height with spacers to get your ideal handlebar height or if you can't get the height, you're too low & place a lot of weight on your wrists. So seat tube/frame height is also important.

I've got two 54cm frames which have the same headtube length & I'm comfy on both for miles. I have another, which has a racier geometry, with a shorter headtube, which I have to stack up with spacers & flip the stem to avoid backache. At 53 I'm not as flexible as I was :D

[AJC]

Well, I am a road bike owner once again! I went and bought it, it being this:

http://i1069.photobucket.com/albums/u472/fac83ajc/IMG_2389.jpg (http://s1069.photobucket.com/user/fac83ajc/media/IMG_2389.jpg.html)

It's pretty nice, and it fits! I guess b'twin sizing is odd as it defo says 57 on it, but it fits well. In fact the lad selling it was at least an inch shorter than me. Wheels are true(ish, back is a little wiggly), gears change well and he threw in a couple of tubes, a crank brothers multi-tool and the original pedals which fit my cleats/shoes.

Brakes are surprisingly good considering I heard they were a weak point, maybe has changed the pads. Also has spent the last year getting used on a turbo trainer in his summer house/posh shed so there is no corrosion etc.

Only downside... the headset is either loose or gubbed. It's not moving a huge amount but it's noticeable. I don't know much about them so could be a trip to the bike shop, after I go to Decathlon and ask which of these fits:

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/Buy/headset?brand=B%27TWIN

Any ideas? Are they hard to fit?

Cheers lads for your help so far :)

[maviczap]

Cool!

If the bearings are goosed, then they should just fall out of the headtube, no tools required. If you need to change the crown race on the forks, that's a bike shop job, although I've removed it carefully with a thin screwdriver.

To install I've used a Vax Hoover pipe which has a plastic end, doesn't damage the bearing surface! Plastic waste pipe does the same job.

But it maybe the headset needs adjusting, just a couple of minutes with an allen key.

[AJC]

Sounds not too bad, might have a go at it. The bike shop is less than 10 mins away if I get stuck!

I did have a quick check to see if it was just loose, it wasn't :(

[carelesschucca]

YAY!!! Road adventures ahead!!! :)

[AJC]

YAY!!! Road adventures ahead!!! :)

Yep need to get a run once I get the headset done. Prolly just take it to the local shop on Thursday.

[MattCollins]

That's sorted then...

[AJC]

That's sorted then...

It is now!

Reesuulltt! The headset and bearings are fine. I am a bit of an idiot but to be fair I worked it out in the end. Last night when I tried to just tighten the top bolt I didn't think to loosen the other clamps first.

Tonight, after watching a youtube video I balanced the bike hanging from the cat tree (worked surprisingly well!) and got to work. Decided to try and get the bearing out, see what size they were and order new ones. Once apart the bearings seemed solid (but could do with a clean/regrease) and didn't move with me giving em a pull with my fingers.

Decided to rebuild and see how it felt, but this time I was smart enough to think the top bolt would need tightened first to pull it all together before the clamp and stem bolts. Soon as I did this it's was solid with no movement at all. Yay!

Soo, I'll have it out tomorrow for a bit of a run (small run, seen the weather??), pick up some waterproof grease and rebuild it again.

Happy days

[MattCollins]

Good news then... I wouldn't worry about greasing them again if you managed to get some "ordinary" bearing grease into it. They're all waterproof, just varying resistance to washout. What's in there will last a couple of months of deluges (that'd be keen) when applied generously. Bicycle manufacturers share the same pot of grease with Suzuki and that'd be the first reason why the bearings were dry. Don't sweat it.


Different problem for me. The other week I got in to see the doc for another round of gas and this time the scalpel removing a bunch of spots from my legs and arms. The pathology has come back all clear, but the doc is adamant about covering up and I don't need the worry.

I'm back in lycra... bib tights, full sleeves (four of each), fingered gloves and I've treated myself to some new Sidi Drako shoes, Giro Synth lid, Brooks C15....

[maviczap]

Glad the diagnosis is clear, although not a big issue for us here, I'm always careful in the summer (scoffs to himself, what sumer) and always in the high mountains.

[carelesschucca]

OMG folks I need to feel better soon sitting in the house is dangerous. Nothing to do but look at bike parts (both types of bike)

Got the SKS XL's ordered today, then spent about 4 hours looking at better shoes, peddles and brake blocks, and as I said to Matt I've developed a penchant for Castelli clothing, I'm going to talk the gaffer into buying me either the white or red version (dunno if white is wise for me I'm a dirty little tramp)
http://www.wigglestatic.com/product-media/5360106918/Castelli-Criterium-Full-Zip-Jersey-Long-Sleeve-Jerseys-White-Grey-AW15-CS155281092.jpg?w=430&h=430&a=7http://www.wigglestatic.com/product-media/5360106918/Castelli-Criterium-Full-Zip-Jersey-Long-Sleeve-Jerseys-Black-Red-White-AW15-CS155282312.jpg?w=430&h=430&a=7

Whatcha think White or Red?

[maviczap]

Red, it'll match your bike, which is in the 'Rules' :-)

Don't overlook Sportful or Dhb (wiggles brand) both have the same Italian flair and design, and use the same fabrics.

I bought 2 Sportful jackets recently, the Fliandre light no rain, which fits in my back pocket, but also has a proper race fit, no flappy sleeves, its windproof too.

But better still is the R&D jersey, although its really a jacket. Really warm, ive just been wearing just a thin thermal layer underneath and i dont think I'll need much more throughout the winter.

[MattCollins]

Agreed... Red.

[MattCollins]

Well, I've come full circle on the saddle. The bike came with a San Marco Era saddle, the basic 145mm variant with a splash of hideous green. It is a very inexpensive (~$35) and not too bad, about 95% right, but there was some room for improvement.
I've bought an Selle SMP and borrowed a few different up market models, decided that spoon shaped saddles are not for me and others sloped too steeply laterally (I need a fairly flat seat) as I put the stock saddle back on. I bought a Brooks C15, decided that wasn't going to agree with me either (comfy at first, but bites hard as the ride progresses) after a week and 450km. It didn't even look like giving either which is something that I'd normally expect from a Brooks.
Third time lucky, but not holding out too much hope I bought an open 135mm San Marco Era after someone pointed out that the same seat is available in different widths... $35... what did I have to lose... I rode 100km on its first day after getting it set up on a Deda post (with much finer adjustment then the original FSA(?))... zero bite! Day two... zero bite! Sweet!

PS. I've already got my money back from a friend who liked the Selle SMP and another has his hand up for the C15. They get to ride them for a couple of weeks before making a decision and avoid throwing good money after bad on saddles that simply do not work for their anatomy.

[maviczap]

Heads up, Halfords have the rigid Gatorskin on offer for £18. I've just ordered a pair

One of, if not the best winter tyre out there?

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bike-parts/bike-tyres/continental-ultra-gatorskin-700-x-25-bike-tyre?_$ja=kw:drytinder|tsid:40392&cm_mmc=Affiliates-_-PerformanceHorizon-_-drytinder-_-TopLink

[carelesschucca]

Thanks Mav I've reserved myself a pair...

[maviczap]

If you have trouble fitting tyres, get one of these

http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/simson-tyre-mate-prod22353/

Or this copy

http://www.pedal-pedal.co.uk/koolstop-tyre-mate.html?gclid=Cj0KEQiApruyBRCFqoDu1pbk9rkBEiQAF8 EFdeNLYfKUYlTjuGcaoAtbaViLEu6tUuPb-cYAYRePwY0aAiTZ8P8HAQ

[carelesschucca]

If after I get bloody fingers giving one of those bad boys a try... As said in the PM I need to get well again and soon... If I don't its gonna cost me a fortune and I'm gonna have more cycling shoes than any man needs... And I suppose all shoes need matching pedals :)

[MattCollins]

I thought you'd be feeling better by now. The humour is still there at least... How many pairs of shoes now?

No riding for me today... It was another good week with just over 580km and 13,400m. 21 laps, 10 CW / 11 CCW of this in 6 days... https://goo.gl/maps/gMs3CPKyHSs I'm doing the climbs in about 25 minutes and each lap in about 48 minutes.
The climbs... https://goo.gl/maps/4AwJ2HJZrfF2 and https://goo.gl/maps/2GJByH12qbU2
[/URL] [URL="https://goo.gl/maps/9EbND3q9nHP2"]
(https://goo.gl/maps/9EbND3q9nHP2)

[carelesschucca]

I thought I'd be better too, I got sent home by my boss on Wednesday whose first words to me were, Oft you look contagious and awful.

I've been looking at these shoes Shimano R107's (white) Louis Garneau Revo XR3's (black) I also like the more touring based shimano RT82, I'm going to pop into Evans when I got back to work and try them on.

I also was advised to have a look at a pair of SiDI levels but they don't have both types of pedal fitment. The gaffer has said I'm just getting money for my Christmas so I can spend it where I like :)

I'm desperate to get out and I've found a wee short sharp climb that I want to do that gets me up to Stirling Castle via Ballengeich Pass. Strava says it averages 10% but its only 1km long, but its so worth it to get up to the Castle.

[MattCollins]

Hey Dean,

Which cleat system do you plan to use?

[carelesschucca]

I was thinking about going for SPD-A520 touring pedals. But I'm not 100% the SiDI's would mean a change to a more race oriented pedal.

[MattCollins]

Any particular reason for that particular style of pedal?

I'd have suggested PD-M520 pedals and mountain shoes. They work the same, but the shoes are easier to walk on.

You're right, the Sidis will want something like PD-R550L pedals with SPD-SL cleats. Some of the other shoes you mention look like they are compatible with both.
This cleat style will give you better foot stability which is a very strong reason for choosing them.

...If it was me looking for road gear and wanting to avoid MTB gear, I'd take the Sidis with R550 road pedals.

[carelesschucca]

I'll be honest I'm going round and round in circles, I like the SPD touring type pedals for the walking part and the fact I'll still be able to use the shoes I have, but I don't do much in the way of walking when I'm out riding.
As I don't know personally what the benefits of the more road type pedals. Its that way I'd like to give them a try and make my choice.

But I'll admit I'm tying myself in knots with it all. There are too many options and even reading Cyclingweekly's (http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/fitness/bike-fit/pedal-system-best-133105)info is confusing :)

[maviczap]

Yes, it can be like that. When I went clipless there was only Look pedals, so I've stayed with that system.

I haven't even changed to Look Keo's, I'm still using the original Look Delta system with the red cleats!

SPd's are fine, but the road pedals, such as look Keo, Look delta, Shimano Spd SL (bloody confusing giving it the same name!), etc etc give you a broader platform to pedal on, so might give you more comfort over longer distances.

But with a stiffer soled shoe, you probably wouldn't notice the difference?

With the road based SPd system, it's easy to engage, as the pedals are double sided. I wouldn't buy any of those Spd pedals that only have the mechanism on one side, you'll be forever flicking your pedal over to get the SPD side up.

I haven't included Speedplay pedals, as they are too expensive for your needs!

[maviczap]

Yes, it can be like that. When I went clipless there was only Look pedals, so I've stayed with that system.

I haven't even changed to Look Keo's, I'm still using the original Look Delta system with the red cleats!

SPd's are fine, but the road pedals, such as look Keo, Look delta, Shimano Spd SL (bloody confusing giving it the same name!), etc etc give you a broader platform to pedal on, so might give you more comfort over longer distances.

But with a stiffer soled shoe, you probably wouldn't notice the difference?

With the road based SPd (with the mountain bike cleat) system, it's easy to engage, as the pedals are double sided. I wouldn't buy any of those Spd pedals that only have the mechanism on one side, you'll be forever flicking your pedal over to get the SPD side up.

I haven't included Speedplay pedals, as they are too expensive for your needs!

[carelesschucca]

I've just decided I know the pedals I'm going for THESE BAD BOYS (http://www.bikeinn.com/bike/look-keo-power-complete-kit/40451/p) are the business :)

The pedals I have the now are single sided but they're that carp they don't spin so if I wait for them to come back round I can clip back in, its the reason I want to change them. if they don't spin on their own and they're already making grinding noises they ain't right.

[maviczap]

I've just decided I know the pedals I'm going for THESE BAD BOYS (http://www.bikeinn.com/bike/look-keo-power-complete-kit/40451/p) are the business :)
.

A grands worth of pedal on a sub £500 bike. You're pulling our legs for sure :santa:

[MattCollins]

Power kits... Now matter how sweetly she smiled my girlfriend couldn't convince me to put $$$$ Vectors on her road bike. Pedals are a part that cop knocks and abuse and the money is obscene. I had no problems putting them on her trainer bike though and her road bike just has to make do with a Powertap hub... I wouldn't mind one myself.

Dean, SPD-SL, Look and other road pedals "hang" in the correct position to take the nose of the cleat and as the foot pushes forward the pedal levels and engages the back of the cleat. It is a very natural engagement action. Once you're used to them getting the cleat in is a half second job, first time, every time.
MTB/touring double sided SPD pedals don't rotate or hang like road pedals either - I have only been using mid-range Shimano pedals (XTR M9000 now) which have been stiff on the seals and when they're not they are finished. They're not as nice to get into as dedicated road pedals... they're actually quite fiddly in comparison, but not as bad as some single sided pedals.

[MattCollins]

This morning a group of us rode a few laps of a modified version of the route I've been riding all week. It is 27.5km, 740m per lap and the main climb is 10.4km and 590m.

The course: https://goo.gl/maps/DY6jQp3f1c92
The climb: https://goo.gl/maps/6mcuTVbhVV22
The decent: https://goo.gl/maps/Z7RXxtPgwGN2
The new bit: https://goo.gl/maps/KJqpwnJSTeD2

[carelesschucca]

Just watched Pantani: the accidental death of a cyclist on Netflixs. I know its only from his supporters side but have any of you guys watched it? Its quite sad (not the film per say) he was the first pro-cyclist that I really remember watching on C4's coverage of the tour. I thought he was brilliant, just don't know the full truth of what happened.

Oh, the gaffer has bought me some of my Christmas, so I'll be getting a Quadlock and a pair of Shimano SPD-A520's, as I've decided to go for the more practical route in shoes and pedals at the moment.

[maviczap]

Its a great movie, sad yes and all his results were EPO fuelled, but to watch, very exciting.

Another eye opener is Lance Armstrong - Stop at nothing

[fizzwheel]

Just watched Pantani: the accidental death of a cyclist on Netflixs. I know its only from his supporters side but have any of you guys watched it? Its quite sad (not the film per say) he was the first pro-cyclist that I really remember watching on C4's coverage of the tour. I thought he was brilliant, just don't know the full truth of what happened.

Yes watched that a few times also this is worth a read

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Marco-Pantani-Biography-ebook/dp/B009S8AV2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448314740&sr=8-1&keywords=marco+pantani

Fantastic story, but ultimately I think incredibly sad, Pantani paid a massive price for his EPO fuelled victories IMHO.

IIRC one of the few riders that Armstrong was really afraid of and one of the few to really make him suffer. His attacking flamboyant style used to really light up the races and thats why I loved watching him race. It was attack and succeed or completely fail and I loved him for it.

[carelesschucca]

Yes watched that a few times also this is worth a read

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Marco-Pantani-Biography-ebook/dp/B009S8AV2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448314740&sr=8-1&keywords=marco+pantani

I'm guessing that's the book the film was based on... Its the kind of book I read, I'm not one for stories but a good Biography is always worth reading.

[carelesschucca]

Well Mav I hope you're luckier than me with the tyres. Just had a lovely email saying that you ain't getting the tyres because we don't have any. Well thanks very much ya bunch of

[maviczap]

No email yet mate, but I'm not surprised. A lot of Halfrauds deals tend to be empty promises, I wonder if its just a technique of gathering mass email addresses, so they can bombard you with lots of useless offers. :smt068

Had a similar experience with B&Q, but I'd paid for the item, so they offered a refund or the next model up at a discount.

Bargains at Halfrauds tend to be the ones I see in store & buy there and then.

I can't remember any Halfrauds online offer that I've managed to buy the product. :confused:

Which is why I buy elsewhere :)

[carelesschucca]

Already been looking at Michelin Pro4 Endurance 28's so I might go down that route again.

Oh Halfords emailed me less than an hour later offering more deals, I'll be getting them on spam filter. I now seem to have more cycling emails everyday than motorbike.

Tomorrow the pedals turn up so hopefully I'm allowed them as an early Christmas, because if not we'll be getting a very late dinner because I ain't cooking no duck till they've been well tested.

[maviczap]

Already been looking at Michelin Pro4 Endurance 28's so I might go down that route again.

Oh Halfords emailed me less than an hour later offering more deals, I'll be getting them on spam filter. I now seem to have more cycling emails everyday than motorbike.

Tomorrow the pedals turn up so hopefully I'm allowed them as an early Christmas, because if not we'll be getting a very late dinner because I ain't cooking no duck till they've been well tested.

What a surprise, just a marketing tool :smt071 What they don't get, is that folk remember these unfulfilled deals (well I do), so don't tend to lend Halfrauds any loyalty and spend their dosh there. [-X[-X

So back to my favourites Merlin, Wiggle etc etc. At least they tell you its in stock or not.

Them Michelins got good reviews

[MattCollins]

Seems we shop in the same places... ie Wiggle, Merlin, Evans, etc... These are where I get the best bang for the buck and they're all good with out of stock items which happens occasionally - seems that's sometimes caused by discrepancies between their stock and online ordering system. I'm expecting some back ordered bits from Wiggle this morning and they're only four days behind the rest of the order.
Halfords... I haven't had a successful order with that mob yet...

Anyway... 5am, 16C and first light... I'm going for a ride.

[maviczap]

Enjoy!

Its 8 degs here and v dark

[maviczap]

A bit more light hearted, Micky Flanagan's Detour De France Sky 1 now

[carelesschucca]

Anyway... 5am, 16C and first light... I'm going for a ride.

You can go off people rapidly, hope you've had a good ride. BTW its been pitch black here for about 5 hours and its almost at freezing point. BRRR!!!!

[MattCollins]

I'm back... 145km in 4.5hrs and feeling good. It was quite warm, hitting 30C before I got in at about 11am, 33C by lunch, but solid overcast.
While it's not as bad as the UK it does get cold, wet and miserable here too and there are days during the summer when it is not a good idea to get on a pushie.

BTW, I got home just in time to catch the courier. Six days to get a package from the UK... most local stores can't get stuff to me inside two weeks.

[MattCollins]

I found a pic of my bike floating around...

Don't know what is up with the rendering. Site software seems to have compressed it by a third. 72kB to 52kB.

[carelesschucca]

Get that sprayed the right colour, looks nice from what I cam see... I love their bikes in the aquamarine (if thats the right name)

Well I've officially become that man that is all the gear no idea. Just spent *cough* amount on 3 items of clothing from Sumattory in the Sportpursuit sale.

Got a top, a pair of shorts (blue) and winter bib leggings (black) hopefully with Maviczaps help and advice I've picked the right size (I went for large) and thats my Christmas to me sorted...

now need to hide how much I spent from the gaffer, especially as I won't get to wear the shorts and top for about 5 months, unless I got to the Chris Hoy Veladrome with AJC.

[MattCollins]

Hell no, all celeste is too much! The silver is smart and/or elegant, not something to assault the senses.
https://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-bikes/bianchi/wa/perth/bianchi-impulso-ultegra-11s-silver/102392217


Welcome to the club... it's a slippery slope. Fortunately I don't have to hide it from or justify it to the lady. She's all in...

[MattCollins]

Another good week. 6 days, 25 laps (https://goo.gl/maps/DY6jQp3f1c92), 720km, 18,980m at 48-50min per lap and I'm getting over that 10.5km/600m climb in 22-24.5min with a best of 19:35 and a worst of 28:40. RHR is in the mid 50's and I dropped another 2kg this week to take my weight to 70kg even.
The weight loss was unintended indicating an imbalance... I was happy with 72kg and I don't want to be below 70kg. I'm enjoying the climbs, but I need to back off a little and spend a bit of time down on the flat... Something like this: https://goo.gl/maps/RomzqqReTSk

[maviczap]

53 miles in Belgain like conditions yesterday, and hanging on to my mates wheel for the last 10 miles. He's just under 70, and he made my 54 year old legs hurt. A loss of fitness since September.

[carelesschucca]

I've got a flat(ish) 40km ride planned for tomorrow, but we'll see how things go it'll be my first ride since being ill. But I'm SO looking forward to it been nearly three weeks since I've been out.

[pookie]

I only hope I'm still riding at 70 :) .. enjoy the rides .. must try harder in getting out on the bike!

[maviczap]

In my Thursday group 2 are over 70 (ones nearly 80), my mate is nearly 70. I'm the youngest at 54!

If we meet the CTC mob, 99.9% are over 70.

So keep it up, its good for you

[Dipper]

Photo from this morning's commute 44 miles, 11 miles direct but I love getting lost in the lanes....

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/12308372_1083808684984790_961449146355944345_n.jpg ?oh=990cc20e0af34ebb2de908251799bf76&oe=56AE9EED

[MattCollins]

There's a 67yo in our Sunday group. Every day for the past 20 or 30 years he has commuted about 40km through the hills into the CBD.
His wife is in her early 60's, but looks a lot younger (I'm guessing... not polite to ask, maybe she is younger) and we see her a few times a week when she comes down to train with the ladies.
Age doesn't seem to be much of an impediment for people who look after themselves.

[MattCollins]

I've got a flat(ish) 40km ride planned for tomorrow, but we'll see how things go it'll be my first ride since being ill. But I'm SO looking forward to it been nearly three weeks since I've been out.

All the best with that Dean.

[carelesschucca]

Thanks Matt, the weather is to be awful but I'm still going. Forecast is heavy rain, 7c and 17 mph winds. But I'm giving it a try, if I end up crying at the side of the road then so be it :)

This afternoon I'm heading down to my old mans to get a extra pair of hands to help change the pedals, why do so many jobs in anything require 3 hands?

[maviczap]

Just grit your teeth and grind it out. Normally i wouldnt start out in heavy rain these days, but i dont mind if i get caught out in the rain, no matter how hard, although not too cold please. I find it more uncomfortable to cycle with cold feet, than getting wet.

[MattCollins]

This afternoon I'm heading down to my old mans to get a extra pair of hands to help change the pedals, why do so many jobs in anything require 3 hands?


Haha... Yeah, skinning knuckles on a chainring is usually accompanied by tears and a lot of cursing.

That is what large cable ties or toe straps are for.

[carelesschucca]

We've given up even following instructions we couldn't get the bl00dy things off. The inside allen Key socket has rounded on the left pedal even when we were going clockwise. Going to the local shop early tomorrow so here's hoping.

[MattCollins]

Dean, the cost of the labour will probably be about the same as the cost of the right spanner...

I thought about mentioning it earlier, but I didn't want to be "that" guy. Maybe you'll find it useful.

Even Shimano workshop documents (worth the download btw) tell us that a 6mm Allen key is insufficient to apply the correct torque (about 35Nm IIRC). There is no hope with a pedal that has corrosion (dissimilar metals) or has been jammed - which seems to happen a lot if there is insufficient torque.
If the pedal is greased and torqued correctly with a spanner it will be a lot less trouble to get off later.

Mine went on with a $5 multi tool at the bike shop. You'd think a decent Allen key would have been enough to get them off, but it took a pedal spanner.

[carelesschucca]

I went to Solidrock Cycles after calling the guy.

it took him a minute to loosen the pedal and he wouldn't take a penny, and started cursing Allen Key pedals and told me to try and avoid using them on pedals. The shop is small but jam packed with good gear, the guys were great, sales guy talked tyres for ages and said I'd be daft to go out today. It was snowing when I arrived and the roads were puddled and poor.

I will go back and see them again.

[MattCollins]

That was easy then. Did you get a spanner to put the new pedals on? :)

I know a couple of guys like that in local shops... colourful characters who are passionate and they'll shoot sh!! for hours if I let them. They actually have a clue about the gear they have on the shelves.

[maviczap]

I dont understand why factories or people overtighten pedal spindles so tight. I just tighten them up so they're snug.

The only ones ive had come loose, are ones ive forgotten to tighten.

[carelesschucca]

Matt, I had a Pedal Spanner but it wasn't budging, my old man and I rounded the inside allen key trying to get it off and unfortunately my old man stripped some skin off his fingers.

Talking tools I have £30 left in my Christmas budget so was thinking about getting The Bike hand Shimano tool kit (http://www.wheelies.co.uk/p41164/Bike-Hand-Bicycle-Maintenance-Tool-Kit-Shimano-Fit.aspx?sku=104644&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=AdwordsProductAds&utm_campaign=Adwords&gclid=Cj0KEQiA4eqyBRDUh7Omv9vCtsoBEiQAspfs8gJgL5-qDFGB0nqfIrWcSbu59HneG6w3jv2yjPqgwz0aAkjT8P8HAQ) from the gaffer, but I don't know how much of it I'd use...

If I wasn't going to get the tool kit what would you guys get for £30???

[MattCollins]

You must have loosened it for the bike shop. :lol

I can't say anything to the quality of the kit, but that is the sort of thing you'd want for servicing.
If you ride regularly over winter I'd suggest at least the basics... BB spanner, cassette socket and chain whip, cone spanners and chain breaker. Individual tools will burn through that money quickly.

Failing that, work out what you need. If there is nothing immediate, buy a gift voucher for yourself or treat the wife.

[phi-dan]

I've got that same toolkit. It's not bad quality. I'm sure the really expensive stuff is better, but for home maintenance it's ideal.