The Cycling Thread

[maviczap]

That road vid is cool, my kind of bike porn

How fast, you seem to be zipping past those other bikes somewhat :p

[fizzwheel]

That road vid is cool, my kind of bike porn

Agreed, there is something completely mental about descending like that :cool:

[maviczap]

Cycling stuff at Aldi this week

http://uk.aldi.com/uk/html/offers/offers_week37Thursday10.htm?WT.z_src=main

[WicklowSV]

That road vid is cool, my kind of bike porn

How fast, you seem to be zipping past those other bikes somewhat :p

Ah, the downhill bits are what get me up the hills in the first place. Must confess I'm a bit of a loon on the downhills - the Garmin read 78.4kph (48mph) on that downhill section! There's no way I'd ride the SV at that speed without full leathers, lid, boots and gloves on and here I am fleecing it down a hill with a pair of shorts and a t-shirt on!! Mad, but a lot of fun too! :D

[maviczap]

Ah, the downhill bits are what get me up the hills in the first place. Must confess I'm a bit of a loon on the downhills - the Garmin read 78.4kph (48mph) on that downhill section! There's no way I'd ride the SV at that speed without full leathers, lid, boots and gloves on and here I am fleecing it down a hill with a pair of shorts and a t-shirt on!! Mad, but a lot of fun too! :D

Yes, we don't seem to give it a 2nd thought do we, hairing down hills just clad in lycra. 22mm of thin rubber at 48mph wicked :smt045


Mind you roads have big stoney objects at the side, which would hurt somewhat if you got it wrong

[Luckypants]

Cycling stuff at Aldi this week

http://uk.aldi.com/uk/html/offers/offers_week37Thursday10.htm?WT.z_src=main

Anyone used their stuff? I'm thinking of getting a long sleeve jersey and the thermal undies, arm warmers etc. Is it any good?

[Luckypants]

Yes, we don't seem to give it a 2nd thought do we, hairing down hills just clad in lycra. 22mm of thin rubber at 48mph wicked :smt045

Yeah, weird isn't it. I'm accused of being a loon on downhills, but my view is that as a motocyclist I tend to look further down the road and am used to the speed. or maybe being a biker lulls me into a false sense of security? :(

I know what happens if you spill on a road bike, just look at the state of Ivan Anton after his crash in the Vuelta, ripped to shreds. I once had a cyclist looking to overtake me on the VFR while descending off the Col de la Croix de Fer, we passed a red mark on the road that led to a cyclist in the bank being attended to by medics and Gendarmes: that made him back off! I guess we just don't think about it on the pedal cycle, it's the reward for all the hard work getting up there.

[fizzwheel]

Yes, we don't seem to give it a 2nd thought do we, hairing down hills just clad in lycra. 22mm of thin rubber at 48mph wicked :smt045

Nope I never do. Clocked 55mph down Contisbury Hill into Lynmouth on a sportive. thought about it afterwards and I reckon I went down it faster on the road bike than I would have done on my GSXR.

I climb like a brick but then I tend to descend like one as well.

Road furniture does hurt, I lost it on a descent when I was in my teens and have a nice big scar on my elbow for my troubles. I had to untangle myself and my bike from a metal 5 bar gate. I was a bit sore...

[maviczap]

Anyone used their stuff? I'm thinking of getting a long sleeve jersey and the thermal undies, arm warmers etc. Is it any good?

I've got 2 of their jersey's, I don't know if they're exactly the same as these but I've got no complaints for the price. I have a pair of the thermal gloves and they're ok too.

They tend to go quick from the stores mind.

I bought a short sleeved merino shirt and its pretty good too

[AndyBrad]

just a quick one for all you nutters on the push bikes. :)

the ones that ride to work. how do you stop from getting all sweaty?

[maviczap]

just a quick one for all you nutters on the push bikes. :)

the ones that ride to work. how do you stop from getting all sweaty?

Can't be helped, other than riding naked :p

Ride to work then shower (if you place has a shower)

[fizzwheel]

My work place has a shower so I bring a change of clothes with me and then get showered and changed once I get to work.

[Drew Carey]

+1, we have a shower.

There is no way to cycle to work without getting sweaty. If you don't your not trying hard enough to make it a worthwhile workout!!!!

[AndyBrad]

bugger,

[Drew Carey]

I did used to work many moos agi at a place in Worcester which had no showers etc. One of the guys there had a camping shower. Basically a posh bags with holes in it!!!

Every morning he would get to work, fill it, then have a cold shower in the car park.....all year round!!!! Apparently he did for approx 5 years!!!!

[AndyBrad]

knackers to that!

[the_lone_wolf]

Every morning he would get to work, fill it, then have a cold shower in the car park.....all year round!!!! Apparently he did for approx 5 years!!!!

Kind of like a "clean" protest..:D

[the_lone_wolf]

Well, at the risk of totally picture whoring myself out here...

She's finished!!!

Ordered the few bits from Wiggle last week and stopped by the shops to get the new saddle sorted:

LBS only had the Ti version so was a bit more than I wanted to spend but a quick test ride sold me, definitely a comfy, if perplexingly hard, saddle:

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0098-1.jpg

RaceFace stem and bars, stem +10mm, bars -1.0"

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0097-1.jpg

Also dropped a few mm on the stem

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0099.jpg

The finished article, very happy with it:

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0095-1.jpg

Definitely got more of a head down XC feel to it now the stem increase seems to have taken the edge off the slightly manic handling while remaining fun and it feels more comfy on the long climbs, found myself resting my forearms on the bars to lean forward more before

[Filipe M.]

I think I don't like you very much right now...


:lol:

[the_lone_wolf]

I think I don't like you very much right now...


:lol:

Doooo eeeet, you know you want to

Have to say I have the ultimate respect for the roadies with no suspension and comedy rubber band tyres, I locked out the fork and shock for a road climb today and forgot about it, went to bounce up a kerb and almost gave myself a white leather enema!!!

Perhaps I should be sticking to bouncy bouncy until I get less forgetful...;)

[maviczap]

New bars are better looking

Suspension on the road? Sacre bleau! Non!

[the_lone_wolf]

Suspension on the road? Sacre bleau! Non!
You have yet to experience the roads around here...

I use the term loosely...:p

[Tim in Belgium]

Cycled the sit up and beg dutch bike the 9 miles back from work straight into a Force 5 blowing across the polders. Hard work, it took an extra 15 minutes compared to the road bike.

[Drew Carey]

I couldn't get to work on a road bike round my way. There is some sections where the potholes are accross the whole road. Mental.

[Tim in Belgium]

I'm liking this too:

http://www.cycleexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/jeronimo-cycles-slutter-5.jpg

http://www.cycleexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/jeronimo-cycles-slutter-2.jpg

http://www.cycleexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/jeronimo-cycles-slutter-10.jpg

If only to have in the lounge!

[Filipe M.]

Doooo eeeet, you know you want to

Yup, seems like my frankenbike will have to come out the garage and see the light of day once more... might do it tomorrow if I'm feeling brave.

Have to say I have the ultimate respect for the roadies with no suspension and comedy rubber band tyres, I locked out the fork and shock for a road climb today and forgot about it, went to bounce up a kerb and almost gave myself a white leather enema!!!

Perhaps I should be sticking to bouncy bouncy until I get less forgetful...;)

I always rode hardtails, but I wouldn't do without suspension in the front end... it hurts too much otherwise! Mind you, the really crappy suspension forks without real damping hurt even more by amplifying the irregularities, so I'll make an exception for those!

Now if you could just stop talking about the bling bits and carry on with the riding, that would be really nice...

... because I really want some Juicy 5s but at the same time Nikon has just released the new D7000 and the D400 is due for next year, and that Tokina 11-16 is looking really good, and then my PC is getting a bit long in the tooth, and the new living room is begging for a new 40" screen, and...

... cr@p. :rolleyes:

[fizzwheel]

I'm liking this too

Oh that is nice :cool:

[fizzwheel]

I couldn't get to work on a road bike round my way. There is some sections where the potholes are accross the whole road. Mental.

You'd be surprised, but it does take an awful lot of forward planning and sometimes you have to bunny hop. Be surprised how much clearance you get with clipless pedals when carrying out the bunny hop ;)

[the_lone_wolf]

Now if you could just stop talking about the bling bits and carry on with the riding, that would be really nice...

I would, but I've decided to give SPDs a go so there may be some new pedals in a few days...;)

[Drew Carey]

Lol....sure one day I will expereince it.....but for now will use the hardtail I got. I find filtering sooooooooo much more fun on the mtb too!!!!

[Drew Carey]

I would, but I've decided to give SPDs a go so there may be some new pedals in a few days...;)

I find they are brill for commuting.....but yet to experience them off road. My worry is when going really slow they will be tricky to use. In fact, got two sets, Shimano and then a cheaper set that were already on the bike when bought.

[the_lone_wolf]

I find they are brill for commuting.....but yet to experience them off road. My worry is when going really slow they will be tricky to use. In fact, got two sets, Shimano and then a cheaper set that were already on the bike when bought.

I'll be giving them the test of my life on Sunday

Not sure about using them on something quite tight like the trails in Wales though, will have to see how we get on

On a related note, I've sourced a bike rack for the car, £30 for a barely used Revolution Shuttle, should do the trick taking the stuff up to Wales...

[fizzwheel]

Not sure about using them on something quite tight like the trails in Wales though, will have to see how we get on

Back the tension right off then, SPD's unclip really easy. Well compared to full on road pedals anyway.

[Drew Carey]

Yeah my SPD's are dead easy to get out of. But I think I may carry in my back pack the standard pedals of Lily's bike and a pedal spanner!!!! lol

Edit - in fact.....thinking of making them harder as sometimes when I twist a little I pop out.

[fizzwheel]

Yeah my SPD's are dead easy to get out of. But I think I may carry in my back pack the standard pedals of Lily's bike and a pedal spanner!!!! lol

You need to MTFU ;) Thing is, if you are riding off road and climbing, you'll miss the extra thing of being able to pull up with flat pedals.

Now clipless with a fixie thats chuffin scarey.

[the_lone_wolf]

Now clipless with a fixie thats chuffin scarey.

I saw an awesome looking single speeder in the LBS today, frame painted in wood finish, same as the bars / saddle etc

Looked proper bo I tell thee:smt109

As for SPDs, and these are the famous last words, I don't think I'll have a problem picking up the technique, but it remains to be seen if I prefer them to my tried and tested ankle destroyers...

[fizzwheel]

I love my fixie.

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e344/fizzwheel/DSC_0008-1.jpg

[Filipe M.]

As for SPDs, and these are the famous last words, I don't think I'll have a problem picking up the technique, but it remains to be seen if I prefer them to my tried and tested ankle destroyers...

SPDs rule. End of. :p

[the_lone_wolf]

SPDs rule. End of. :p

We'll see

Expect lots of tempting pics...


;)

[Filipe M.]

I already own a set of SPDs!


... that said, they're quite old now and up for a change...

... cr@p.

[Luckypants]

I've used SPDs for years on my MTBs (OK OK I know I've hardly ridden it for years) and wouldn't go from a clipless system now. I've got Shimano SPD-SL road pedals (cheaper than Look) on my road bike and find them just as easy to use.

[WicklowSV]

Aye - same here. Have SPD's on the mountain bike and am really happy with them. First few times I was out I hadn't reduced the tension and kept on keeling over at low speed!! But once I adjusted them to be easy to pop out of they were the business. Wouldn't go back to normal pedals now...

[pookie]

aldi doing bicycle gear in today..

http://aldi.co.uk/uk/html/offers/offers_week37Thursday10.htm?WT.z_src=main

Bought the Fluro rain jacket and cycling trousers and shorts. Trousers are padded which is nice.

[Luckypants]

What do you think of the quality? Is it worth buying these cheap items or getting something more expensive from Wiggle/CRC? I'll have to make a special journey to Aldi tonight, but it is kinda on my way to spin class - worth the trip?



PS What are the sizes like? Normal or a bit big/small?

[maviczap]

You'd be surprised, but it does take an awful lot of forward planning and sometimes you have to bunny hop. Be surprised how much clearance you get with clipless pedals when carrying out the bunny hop ;)

Yep, check out Cav's cheeky bunny hop when he won that last stage in the Vuelta. Most of the cross riders can bunny hop some of the smaller obstacles easy, although I remember Dave Baker stacking it big time at the last obstacle before the sprint finish for the National title.

SPds rule on and off road,can't imagine riding without them

[WicklowSV]

What do you think of the quality? Is it worth buying these cheap items or getting something more expensive from Wiggle/CRC? I'll have to make a special journey to Aldi tonight, but it is kinda on my way to spin class - worth the trip?

PS What are the sizes like? Normal or a bit big/small?


I have had the winter cycling jacket for a good while now and the quality is on a par with the (way) more expensive stuff on Wiggle/ay my local bikeshop. I paid under 30 euro for it and the one in the bikeshop (which is almost identical) was selling for almost 90 euro. Even the rubber tabs on the cuffs are the same! Bought herself another one this morning for when were out cycling together and have no doubts about the quality. And no, I don't have shares in Aldi! :D

Also picked up the waterproof trousers this morning - will mostly use them for hillwalking but they have some nice features like velcro straps to tighten the lower leg (handy when on the bike) and reflective piping too. I'm a 36" waist and went for the large size which fits fine. Am tempted to nip back later and pick up an XL pair for over my bike leathers.

The sizes seem to be about average - not overly large or small. Sure just try them on in the shop before buying - everyone else was doing the same this morning!

[pookie]

Just tried the fluro jacket and its a medium and tight across the shoulders and baggy at the bottom. It may have to go back.

The trousers are really good. Padding and material felt good. Nice rubberised ankle hoops and reflective spots on the side. I went for slightly larger size and it was very comfortable fit.

Shorts have a removable padded pant thing. and seem functional as water resistant hard wearing material.



What do you think of the quality? Is it worth buying these cheap items or getting something more expensive from Wiggle/CRC? I'll have to make a special journey to Aldi tonight, but it is kinda on my way to spin class - worth the trip?



PS What are the sizes like? Normal or a bit big/small?

[maviczap]

What do you think of the quality? Is it worth buying these cheap items or getting something more expensive from Wiggle/CRC? I'll have to make a special journey to Aldi tonight, but it is kinda on my way to spin class - worth the trip?

PS What are the sizes like? Normal or a bit big/small?

Jackets and jersey's are comparabale with Wiggle's DHB own brand stuff.

I wouldn't buy shorts from Aldi, the chamois inserts aren't great

[the_lone_wolf]

So these SPDs, how on earth do people fall off them? It's so easy I'd happily teach my 60yr old mother how to use them

Back the adjusters off two clicks and it's actually easier getting going than with the DMRs, as when the shoe touches them it won't move...

Wasn't particularly impressed on the test ride until I hit a hill, then it's a great improvement being able to balance the downward stroke with an upward one on the other leg

Wearing them in today, we'll see how they fair after 50 odd miles on Sunday...

[Filipe M.]

So these SPDs, how on earth do people fall off them? It's so easy I'd happily teach my 60yr old mother how to use them

Easy: get them full of mud and don't clean them for a while ;) As a rule of thumb, the bigger the platform, the easier it is on your feet, but it'll store a lot more crud inside them which will block the system at some point. If you're lucky, they won't even click in, forcing you to clean them before you can't click out...

...and yes, this "ooops can't click out" thing happened to me twice. First one in front of a bus stop full of people in rush hour. As you try and take your foot out of the pedal you just realise that it's not going anywhere, so you pull harder to the side, which makes the bike even more unstable, and when you're already at a stand still, that's not good news. Dropped like a brick on my right hand side.
As for the second time, I was almost getting home and managed to identify the symptoms a bit earlier, so just coasted my way into a low fence in front of my house, leaned into it, managed to take my shoes off while on the bike and then went inside to get some tools and WD40... :rolleyes:



Wasn't particularly impressed on the test ride until I hit a hill, then it's a great improvement being able to balance the downward stroke with an upward one on the other leg


They're brilliant for that kind of stuff. I find that I work the pedals in a more fluid rotation, instead of mashing down on them. Much easier! :smt045

[the_lone_wolf]

Easy: get them full of mud and don't clean them for a while ;) As a rule of thumb, the bigger the platform, the easier it is on your feet, but it'll store a lot more crud inside them which will block the system at some point. If you're lucky, they won't even click in, forcing you to clean them before you can't click out...

Ah, good thing I tend to give the bike a good hose down after any long ride or if it starts tio get really covered in crap, the pedals are on the list of bits that get a spray with dry chain lube as well


And, seeing as I know you love it when I post photos... :-dd

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0100.jpg

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0101.jpg

http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/ktm_wolf/Kona%20Cycling/DSC_0102.jpg

;)

[Drew Carey]

Agree with Filipe....even though I is only a novice being able to use both up and down movement whilst peddaling means my legs dont hurt anywhere near as much.

Also agree it is easy to fall over. I have had a couple of "episodes" both as a result of emergency braking. As something occurs in front of you and you are focused solely on avoiding a collision or hitting an object, the last thing in your mind is clipping out.....by then you have bought your speed down too much and it is too late. :D

[Drew Carey]

Same as mine, except mine are all silver, so not sure if same model or not. Nice and easy to use though.

[Filipe M.]

LOL
Can't see those pedals getting blocked any time soon, though the dry chain lube is always a good idea to keep them working properly.

... need to replace mine, I can't even remember how old they are now, must be over 10 years old now... Shimano SPD-535, anyone remember those?! :shock:

[Luckypants]

Jackets and jersey's are comparabale with Wiggle's DHB own brand stuff.

Bought a load of it, one of their long sleeved jerseys, winter riding jacket and the thermal undies. Will certainly do me for the winter, well happy at that price.

[the_lone_wolf]

Same as mine, except mine are all silver, so not sure if same model or not. Nice and easy to use though.

M520s, basically the same design shimano use for their entire PD range at a slight weight disadvantage, only £20 from wiggle, combined with some surprisingly comfy and high quality bargain basement dbh shoes they seem to work very well

Almost went over when I hopped up a ~12" patio edge, forgot that the Racing Ralph has no grip and span the back wheel, managed to unclip without thinking about it so hopefully the learning curve shan't be too steep

[Drew Carey]

Quick Q that I was wanting to ask. Over winter, when it is cold and wet, what do peeps tend to wear? Only ask as I was thinking of just wearing a pair of waterproof trousers I have, but then thinking about it, they are likely to snag in the chain.

Is there such thing as a set of full length waterproof trousers which are the tightness of say a pair of leggings?

[the_lone_wolf]

I find if I wear anything waterproof I just steam in the bag and get severely uncomfortable, until it drops below zero I'm usually in shorts, but something like a merino wool base layer will keep the core and less active body parts warm - then keep a cag in a bag for the downpours...

[Filipe M.]

M520s, basically the same design shimano use for their entire PD range at a slight weight disadvantage, only £20 from wiggle, combined with some surprisingly comfy and high quality bargain basement dbh shoes they seem to work very well

Almost went over when I hopped up a ~12" patio edge, forgot that the Racing Ralph has no grip and span the back wheel, managed to unclip without thinking about it so hopefully the learning curve shan't be too steep

Unclipping is surprisingly easy under those conditions because the bike twists from under you... if you happen to be twisting to the other side to counteract it or even just because of the squatting motion for the bunny hop, you might twist your feet just enough to hit the limiters and off they come. That's one of the reasons why I actually prefer using them a bit tighter than normal...

[Luckypants]

Quick Q that I was wanting to ask. Over winter, when it is cold and wet, what do peeps tend to wear? Only ask as I was thinking of just wearing a pair of waterproof trousers I have, but then thinking about it, they are likely to snag in the chain.

Is there such thing as a set of full length waterproof trousers which are the tightness of say a pair of leggings?

aldi doing bicycle gear in today..

http://aldi.co.uk/uk/html/offers/offers_week37Thursday10.htm?WT.z_src=main

Bought the Fluro rain jacket and cycling trousers and shorts. Trousers are padded which is nice.

Should have got yourself to Aldi yesterday Drew, all their winter gear on offer for not much cash. There might be some left, but the popular sizes were thin on the ground yesterday evening.

FWIW When really cold I wear thermal bib cycling tights, base layer, long sleeved top, overshoes (on the road bike), winter gloves and a jacket (new one from Aldi to replace the kona team jacket from years ago). Lightweight rain coat for the wet, needs to be breathable, leave legs to steam.

[Drew Carey]

Yup, should have gone to Aldi.....but nevermind. I have a very good thin flourescent waterproof jacket that is also breathable. As wearing it already but with thin layer. So on top will just add more base layers.

But for the bottom half I am currently wearing padded shorts. May just add leggins to that and if legs get wet they get wet.

[embee]

Slight tangent, but anyone watch Ride of my life... (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00t6ylx/Ride_of_My_Life_The_Story_of_the_Bicycle/) on Beeb2 last night. Good prog for anyone interested in bicycles.

[fizzwheel]

Slight tangent, but anyone watch Ride of my life... (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00t6ylx/Ride_of_My_Life_The_Story_of_the_Bicycle/) on Beeb2 last night. Good prog for anyone interested in bicycles.

No, but I've seen it before, good program :cool:

[maviczap]

Bought a load of it, one of their long sleeved jerseys, winter riding jacket and the thermal undies. Will certainly do me for the winter, well happy at that price.

Cool, well warm actually :p For the money their stuff is ok :smt045

[Ruffy]

Quick Q that I was wanting to ask. Over winter, when it is cold and wet, what do peeps tend to wear? Only ask as I was thinking of just wearing a pair of waterproof trousers I have, but then thinking about it, they are likely to snag in the chain.

Is there such thing as a set of full length waterproof trousers which are the tightness of say a pair of leggings?
In the worst of last winter I was wearing the following for my (7.5 mile each way) commute:
Body Top: Short sleeve base layer T, long sleeve mid layer, fleece gilet and windproof or gore-tex outer shell depending on actual weather conditions. Waterproof ski gloves for hands, 'cos I loathe cold and/or wet hands.
Body Lower: 3/4 length thermal bib tights (with double layer extra protection for the knees) under full length running leggings, neoprene overshoes - may look weird but great for avoiding frozen toes!
To combast the wind chill, I also wear a thin neck tube under my helmet - around my head to cover forehead and ears. ( To protect my face, I have occasionally worn a thin balaclava as well, but only on the odd few occasions when it's been well below freezing.)

That's about it - if you pedal at pace it's surprising how much heat you generate and how little you clothing need.

I will mix and match layers according to temperature. I've worn waterproof overtrousers (just cheap overtrousers in my case) only two or three times in the last 3+ years of cycle commuting, in the most torrential downpours - although waterproof cycling trousers do exist to buy, I find it's easier to keep spinning and just get damp as I have shower facilities at each end of the ride. Also, even thought it's gore-tex, my waterproof jacket tends to stay partially unzipped to minimise condensation issues, unless it's really tipping it down.

My experience is that the cold is the bigger enemy (especially with windchill) than the wet.

[the_lone_wolf]

Well, I started the 14 Killer Hills today, but didn't finish

Made it to the half way point though, still 30.35 miles and 1154m total ascent off-road

SPDs performed beautifully, tightened them down before I started so they were as stock and only had one moment, never fell over

7 hills next year I think...

;)

[Jabba]

Made it to the half way point though, still 30.35 miles and 1154m total ascent off-road

Well done fella - great effort. Is that your first event?

I'm off to Tenby next for The Wales Sportive (http://www.thewalessportive.com/) - doing the 80-and-a-bit miler. Not sure how much climbing there will be, hopefully not too much as I'm not as fit as I was at the beginning of June for the Dragon Ride :-(

[the_lone_wolf]

Well done fella - great effort. Is that your first event?

Yep, first event ever but certainly not going to be the last, just need a bit more fitness before I attack something like the 14 hills!! Dead chuffed I made it as far as I did, even if I did have to walk the last major climb and then chant the "1, 2, 3, 4, I love Marine Corps" to get me up the final gentle slope before the huge descent into Freshwater...;) Managed a new Vmax off-road as well, 32.5 is bloody fast when you're squinting so hard into the prevailing wind you can't see the jumps coming. So yeah, great fun...:cool:

80 miles sounds epic though, no way could I make it that far over the kind of terrain we had today, the checkpoints were deliberately arranged so you had to take the most ridiculous climbs :mrgreen:

[Jabba]

80 miles sounds epic though, no way could I make it that far over the kind of terrain we had today, the checkpoints were deliberately arranged so you had to take the most ridiculous climbs :mrgreen:

It's a fair way, but all on roads and on a road-bike so should be doable. Sounded easy when me and mate booked our places :lol:

Did the Dragon on 6th June and then 240-odd miles in a weekend (Fri afternoon to Monday afternoon) at the end of that month. Some big hills in that around the coast of Pembs, inc a 75-mile day from Tenby to The Gower. Hoping that this will be easier.

Your 30-odd miler sounds far tougher :thumbsup:

[the_lone_wolf]

It's a fair way, but all on roads and on a road-bike so should be doable. Sounded easy when me and mate booked our places :lol:

Ah, me being a spanner there, failed to click the link and assumed it was an off-road event :o

Blame the tiredness, I could put my head down and fall asleep now, felt like it since ~19:00:-dd

[maviczap]

Ah, me being a spanner there, failed to click the link and assumed it was an off-road event :o

Blame the tiredness, I could put my head down and fall asleep now, felt like it since ~19:00:-dd

Go to bed then :p

[the_lone_wolf]

Go to bed then :p

I would, but I can't work up the energy to get out of the chair...

[Luckypants]

Top banana TLW, first event popped. I put an event number on my bike for the first time in 15 years today myself. Looked good I have to say. I did the half-marathon distance of the CRC MTB Marathon in Ruthin today.

I even saw Law at finish line :D so another competitor right there.

[the_lone_wolf]

Top banana TLW, first event popped. I put an event number on my bike for the first time in 15 years today myself. Looked good I have to say. I did the half-marathon distance of the CRC MTB Marathon in Ruthin today.

I even saw Law at finish line :D so another competitor right there.

Nice one, hopefully the Welsh trails aren't quite as hilly as it was today - downhill's fun though...;)

[maviczap]

Cycling stuff at Lidl next week, not great stuff, although I might see what the repair stand is like.

I've been looking for one, as I'm fed up with kneeling down to do any work on my bikes. For £29.99 itmight be ok, although I'm not going to trust that clamp on my Carbon frame.

http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg//lidl_uk/hs.xsl/offerdate.htm?offerdate=14166&idcheck=true&ar2=&id=1056&country=GB&zipcode=Dovercourt&city=Harwich&district=CO12+4NX&street=Parkeston+Road&ar=2&nf=True

Plus if you've just ridden your first serious event like TLW, then there's other stuff to check your health or make you feel better :p

http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/lidl_uk/hs.xsl/offerdate.htm?offerdate=14211

http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/lidl_uk/hs.xsl/offerdate.htm?offerdate=14194

[Luckypants]

hopefully the Welsh trails aren't quite as hilly as it was today

*Guffaws*

[maviczap]

I watched the highlights of Saturdays Vuelta stage the other night and what a great stage to finish the race proper.

But what impressed me was the complete lack of Knob heads dressed in mankini's, indian headresses, buda suits etc. Ok, there were groups of enthusiastic fans, but nothing too serious for the riders to worry about.

Why does the TDF attrect so many knob heads now? I blame the Devil, he started it. Spoils my enjoyment of the mountains, same as the ****ed up Dane's when I went to see the TDF in the mountains in 1997. Shame old Bjarne hadn't taken enough EPO and had a **** poor Tour

[the_lone_wolf]

*Guffaws*

Oh honey pleeeease

At least I keep it upright on the tarmac...

;)

[Luckypants]

I watched the highlights of Saturdays Vuelta stage the other night and what a great stage to finish the race proper.Yep that was an epic final climb and really was a true racing finish. Do you think Nibali could have passed Mosquera right at the end and gave him the stage victory in acknowledgement of a great effort to win the race? Or did he just not have it in the tank?

I agree about the lack of mad cap fools in mankinis etc on the stages, makes the event seem more 'serious'. However, I think the Spanish crowd is overly keen, really crowding in at the top of the climbs, patting the riders backs, even giving some a surreptitious push. It may just be my perception, but they seem more in the riders faces than at the TDF.

[Luckypants]

Oh honey pleeeease

At least I keep it upright on the tarmac...

;)

Touché! Actually it was the thought that the South Downs are hillier than Wales made me laugh, but of course the trails chosen may not be.

[the_lone_wolf]

Touché! Actually it was the thought that the South Downs are hillier than Wales made me laugh, but of course the trails chosen may not be.

Yeah, I figured as much...

If I hadn't forgotten to turn the GPS trace on I'd upload the graph, the route we did as it was deliberately done to maximise the up+down.

Still, I'm raring to go again today and could probably have managed a short one yesterday so it's not like I'm out of action for a week...;)

[maviczap]

Yep that was an epic final climb and really was a true racing finish. Do you think Nibali could have passed Mosquera right at the end and gave him the stage victory in acknowledgement of a great effort to win the race? Or did he just not have it in the tank? .

I think he gave him the win

I agree about the lack of mad cap fools in mankinis etc on the stages, makes the event seem more 'serious'. However, I think the Spanish crowd is overly keen, really crowding in at the top of the climbs, patting the riders backs, even giving some a surreptitious push. It may just be my perception, but they seem more in the riders faces than at the TDF.

I think there's probably just a much pushing and 'In their faces'
spectators in the Tour, although in the Tour there's usually a Police bike ahead of any lead group, which stops spectators getting too close?

Having said that I've given Eros Poli & Gerrard Rue a big push in 1997, but they were in the gruppetto on the climb :p

[Drew Carey]

Quick Q all. Do any of you use Insurance for your bicycles?

Just wondered whether seperate insurance is worthwhile....found one for £70 that covers both mine and Lily's bikes, £1m third party liability, accident recovery, 45 days use in Europe....excess is £25.

Just thought would ask what different peeps do. I know we can get it added to contents insurance, but that would only cover theft, damage 3rd party. Wouldn't be covered abroad and wouldn't have breakdown. Plus excess is £25 on our contents anyhow.

[maviczap]

Quick Q all. Do any of you use Insurance for your bicycles?

Just wondered whether seperate insurance is worthwhile....found one for £70 that covers both mine and Lily's bikes, £1m third party liability, accident recovery, 45 days use in Europe....excess is £25.

Just thought would ask what different peeps do. I know we can get it added to contents insurance, but that would only cover theft, damage 3rd party. Wouldn't be covered abroad and wouldn't have breakdown. Plus excess is £25 on our contents anyhow.

At the moment mines just on the household policy, but in the past I had a CTC policy, which was very useful if you got hit, as their lawyers were useful as they knew about cycling. The policy was cheap, although I'm not sure if it is these days.

[Luckypants]

Neither of my bikes are worth a great deal, a 13/14 year old Marin MTB and 8 year old Trek road bike, so are not even declared on my household policy, I'll rely on the unspecified items insurance if it comes to it. I'm looking at something better though and will investigate proper insurance if I spend out.

In the past I found that declaring on my household insurances was cost effective, even for high value race MTBs. They paid up when my daughter's Stumpjumper was stolen without any argument.

[maviczap]

Had a Schleck 'chaingate' moment yesterday. Grinding up a hill (well more of a bump) in the big ring, all of a sudden there's a clic,clac,clic,clac noise from the front chainring. stoppeed when I stopped pedelling.

Continued on the next 2 bumps, but I could put up no more with the noise. I'd fiddled with the cable adjuster, as I thought it was the front mech rubbing on the chain.

Got off, and the penny dropped. My liitle chain saver device had moved slightly and was rubbing on the little ring. Allen keys out and adjust said device. Good job Alberto wasn't riding with me yesterday :p

[pookie]

Just wondering if anyone is doing the biggin hill ride this weekend run by evan cycles?

[Luckypants]

Has Contador been a naughty boy?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11441045

The concentration is so low, could this have been picked up by other means? Will wait for his press conference with interest...

[Filipe M.]

Has Contador been a naughty boy?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11441045

The concentration is so low, could this have been picked up by other means? Will wait for his press conference with interest...

It's not the first time his name has been linked to this kind of stuff, albeit it's never been proved. Does anyone remember the doping scandal that blew up in Spain a few years ago? The initials "A. C." where found in the doctor's list, but nobody could trace them back with any degree of certainty... :rolleyes:

[maviczap]

It's not the first time his name has been linked to this kind of stuff, albeit it's never been proved. Does anyone remember the doping scandal that blew up in Spain a few years ago? The initials "A. C." where found in the doctor's list, but nobody could trace them back with any degree of certainty... :rolleyes:

Yep, wern't the Schleck's tarnished with similar un proven dodgy goings on?

[Drew Carey]

Just by way of an update, deffo getting fitter. Been cycling now for 4 weeks to work and have got my times now down from 55 minutes on the first run........down to 40 minutes flat now. Happy Days.

[Jabba]

Drew - that's impressive :thumbsup:

Feeling sorry for myself :-(

Had to bail out of The Wales Sportive on Saturday after >2 miles, i.e. on the first hill. Fighting my second chest infection of the year and my lungs felt like they were on fire. Still, managed to blag a medal at the finish line :lol:

Had an email with the provisional route for next year's Dragon Ride; change from previous years and includes some of the Vale of Glamorgan Coast. Looking forward to that :thumbsup:

[rob13]

Drew what mileage was that? Ive covered my 8.5 miles in about 25-26 minutes

[Drew Carey]

Drew what mileage was that? Ive covered my 8.5 miles in about 25-26 minutes

Now I feel bad!!! lol

Its 8.1 miles. However, to add, I am 17stone and have done pretty much nothing physically for a long long time until now.

Plus lots of hills.....biguns too. :D

[maviczap]

What about David Millar coming second to Spartacus in the Worlds TT. No one was going to beat Spartacus, so coming 2nd was impressive.

Millar looked done in at the end, Spartacus hardley looked out of breath

[maviczap]

Now I feel bad!!! lol

Its 8.1 miles. However, to add, I am 17stone and have done pretty much nothing physically for a long long time until now.

Plus lots of hills.....biguns too. :D

Don't feel bad, you're doing great.

A good test of your fitness is your waking resting heart rate. So test it a couple of times a week. You should see it drop little by little as your fitness improves. A general rule of thumb

I had a fitness test a work today 56bpm for my resting pulse, not bad for a 48 year old. My aerobic fitness was double what it should be for my age.

Which is good, as I ain't done any serious training since the begining of August

[Luckypants]

A good test of your fitness is your waking resting heart rate. So test it a couple of times a week. You should see it drop little by little as your fitness improves. A general rule of thumb

I take it you mean the resting rate immediately after you wake up? I check mine once a month to see if I am getting fitter, but TBH I'm still at the stage where I see gains on regular rides.

[rob13]

I was toying with the idea of buying a road bike, and joining a club

I dont however, fancy time trials. I guess there is that competition of catching rider in front and avoiding rider from rear but I do prefer competing against someone else rather than just myself.

[maviczap]

I take it you mean the resting rate immediately after you wake up? I check mine once a month to see if I am getting fitter, but TBH I'm still at the stage where I see gains on regular rides.

Yep, check your pulse on waking up. Can also warn if you're over tired or about to get ill. But its only a rough guide.

But I see Drew making big gains quickly

[maviczap]

I was toying with the idea of buying a road bike, and joining a club

I dont however, fancy time trials. I guess there is that competition of catching rider in front and avoiding rider from rear but I do prefer competing against someone else rather than just myself.

Having done both, the time trial is not just about trying to catch the rider in front or avoiding being caught by your back marker. Its your own race to beat your best time against that distance or particular course.

In a TT if you don't have a time you'll be seeded as a normal rider. The riders with a number ending with 0 on a start sheet are the fast men, with the fastest on paper starting last. Riders seeded with a 5 as the last number aren't as fast, but are faster on paper than most of the average riders.

So in a TT you'll quite often be caught by an 0 or 5 depending where you're placed on the start sheet. So you ride your own race, if you catch someone or get caught so what, its your time that counts.

There's no hiding in the bunch, sheltering from the wind.

Road races tend to start really fast, blowing out any unfit or not so good riders. Which means your race is over before it starts, which can be very demoralising :(

Try both disciplines