Momentum, Spuds & Mounts

 

I knew THAT idea was becoming the ONLY idea...The urge to switch Ursula's bar, stem, and brake levers. However, I wanted to avoid being midway through the transplant only to be thwarted by a spacer, or control cable- I strongly suspected the Jagwire Road Elite Sealed Cable Jagwire Road Elite Sealed Brake Kit | cycling-not-racing outers would be a little short at key points. Happy to take my time but crucially get things bang on first time and as with so many things, forward planning is key. I was also trying to trace some Shimano M505 pedals. These had long been succeeded, some might say eclipsed by the legendary 520 but I was curious as to where mine had vanished to.

Presented a good time to strip and re-grease the legendary original 1990 Spuds and I knew precisely where these were.  Balmy weather had seen me spend several weeks racking up a few hundred miles aboard the Holdsworth, enjoying its minimalist, spirited charms.  Clearly, it didn't appreciate the Garmin light mount, which I discovered ejected to an inaccessible part of the garage. This prompted a switch from the ultra-compact Magicshine Allty 400 to Ravemen LR1000 Ravemen LR 1000 Curved Lens Front Light | cycling-not-racing, which is a similarly compact light with a lot more useable power and thanks to the clever optics, much brighter than numbers alone would suggest.

Same goes for its 500-lumen sibling RAVEMEN LR500S FRONT LIGHT | cycling-not-racing. However, the 1000lumens ensures I can navigate the darker lanes, should I find myself out longer than intended on a summer evening.  Staying with lights, Gaciron got in touch and sent me their recently launched Xiaoman 1000 Multifunctional All-in-One Professional Outdoor Front light.

Aside from being a bike light, it's designed for other outdoor activities, including night fishing and hiking. Thanks to the diffusers, it could double as a reading lamp-it may also prove useful in photographic applications- we'll see. The Xiaoman 1000 will also double as a power bank and features a 5000mAh battery.

The highest 1000 lumen mode is claimed to have an illumination range of 200 metres and 2 hours runtime. I was pleased by the sensible staircasing downwards- 600, 300, 100 lumens catering for most riding contexts-great news for urban riders who like to let their hair down along the backroads, or ride through a variety of environments.

There's also a 300-lumen day flash reckoned good for 35 hours between charges and a "Breathe" mode alternating between 50 and 100lumens. Characteristics that lend it nicely to dynamo companionship. IPX6 for weatherproofing and aluminium construction bodes well for durability. There are three colour options-I've gone for black, but white or pink are the alternatives.

It can be mounted atop, or beneath the bars for a sleek, uncluttered effect, courtesy of the symmetrical optics, which is increasingly standard but welcome, nonetheless. I was very slightly disappointed to note the remote is only offered as an aftermarket option- I'd rather see this thrown in with the package, even if it meant upping the price by a couple of quid. 

Gaciron aren't alone in this omission but it's a niggle of mine.  I’m not endeared to the OEM mount design, which is very similar to that employed by Cat-Eye and prone to slippage. I’m looking into a suitable out-front extension mount. The sort that attaches via the stem face, theoretically eliminating the slippage, especially when paired with this Coospo Real Road CS600 GPS Bike Computer Coospo CS600 GPS | cycling-not-racing

 Having popped the Holdsworth back on its hook, having racked up some proper miles and fully reacquainted myself with Cinelli’s Classic Cork Wrap, Muffin and I have settled to some serious miles with the Genetic H-Grip Handlebar Tape, which is proving grippy and supportive. The 18-tooth sprocket has given some welcome additional torque on the climbs-especially when traffic’s slower, or I’m stuck behind a tractor.

It has also led to contemplating a slightly lower ratio for the Holdsworth, but we are talking the contemplative phase, and I do like the taller ratio when belting along. Presently, we’re turning a 79.1-inch gear, switching to a 17tooth would mean 74.5. I’ll give it further thought and may take this route, should I ned to switch a tyre. The Freedom Thick Slick is a very durable slick with great puncture-repelling qualities, but I’ve noted some very subtle deterioration of the sidewall.

One that’s not setting my Lycra ablaze but will be monitored carefully. A blowout might be amusing for onlookers, but I’ve no intention of being the object of someone else’s ridicule. I’d also toyed with upgrading the bottom bracket for a Genetic Karyotype and indeed, taking that route with Muffin next time (although arguably the Karyotype’s minor weight savings don’t justify the additional cost on a trainer, or working bike). I’ll either go for another UN300, or Genetic Cromozone.

Some folks have commented that the Stronglight track 2000 crankset is “made of cheese” citing stripped threads, specifically. I’ve not had any issues, although it’s worth saying I’m religious when it comes to re/greasing threaded components.  That said, should I ever need to retire it, I’d go for another Genetic Tibia GENETIC TIBIA TRACK CRANKS & RING | cycling-not-racing- in silver and possibly 165mm (they’re available in 165, 170 and 175mm).

 

Grabbing life By the Bars

 

Bar tapes (grips too) are very personal matters. Testing aside, my preference has changed over the years from the Bike Ribbon glossies and Grab-On foam touring pieces to polymers and more recently silicones. Some riders change seasonally, although this is often within racing circles, coinciding with cable switches and similar prep.

Makes good sense, given the demands of racing and ultimately the need to have everything bang-on. Arguably tapes should be more frequently on bikes regularly ridden on indoor trainers, since sweat can seep in and, ultimately, induce corrosion related damage.

 As I'm always saying, contact points are very personal things, but tape ranges from inexpensive to decidedly steep, depending on preference. I've been sent some Cinelli Classic Road Bar Tape, which retails at an uncharacteristically wallet-friendly £12. I recall a time-my early teens, specifically, where the only Cinelli I could afford was an Italian made water bottle emblazoned with the Cinelli logo. Ironically enough, this was 1987, the year Cinelli introduced their cork tape employing EVA for damping.

Corks offer warm, natural, wicking properties.  This is black, which arguably compliments, or contrasts pretty much any existing colourway, although there are eight alternatives.  It’s described as a medium thickness and at 2.5mm, I’m inclined to agree. At 250cm long, in theory there’s ample for most bars, including the big curly gravel types with generous amounts of overlap, or indeed gel underlays, which would be the route I’d go, if venturing off road.

 I returned from a ride on Denise, decided I’d “just” switch the Maxxis Ravager rear that was serving as a control (while I was gaining familiarity and comparison with the Continental Terra). However, this led to one of those infamous fettling orgies. Having switched the tyre, I found the rear mech’s inner wire was fraying, so replaced that and the final section of outer cable. Predictably, this cured some intermittent phantom shifting, led to a sudsy bucket wash and ultimately, me stripping and regreasing the Hollowtech II axle. Credit to the Zefal Pro II Grease, it was holding out well.

However, I wanted to see how effective the Muc-Off wax Chain Cleaner was on other, stubborn lubricant.  Surprisingly so, although warm water, stiff bristled brush and a couple of rinses were needed to strip the Zefal Pro II Grease Zefal Pro II Grease | cycling-not-racing.   dressing the Holdsworth’s bars in the Cinelli, adding two Garmin-type mounts since I was in the flow. One for the Coospo CS600 Coospo CS600 GPS | cycling-not-racing, the other for a compact light- Magicshine’s Allty 400 in this instance, since it has a very effective daylight flash.

The sun was shining and now was the time to enjoy my beloved sunny day’s plaything.  I’m arriving at the conclusion that corks have much wider horizons than 80’s road bikes with pencil thin stays. They’re very relevant for daily drivers, winter bikes, cyclo cross rigs and indeed, touring lorries. Nonetheless, they fit best with traditional drops with uniform diameters. Getting the Cinelli logos to line up on the Holdsworth’s Carbon Coefficient Wave Handlebar COEFFICIENT WAVE HANDLEBAR | cycling-not-racing which has plenty of curves and varying diameters proved a little challenging. Thankfully, the adhesive backing is tacky, rather than sticky, so very tolerant of being re-wound.

Cork responds best to a firm, uniform pressure, it also gives decent feedback before it comes close to tearing.  I had plenty left over, so used some to dress this Genetic Neuron Accessory Bar GENETIC NEURON ACCESSORY BAR | cycling-not-racing. The aim was to provide a grippy, secure host for action cameras and lamp mounts.

100psi apiece in the tyres, out on the Holdsworth, I’ve found the tape provides excellent grip and reasonable damping from low level vibration over washboard surfaces. Brilliant for charging hills and enjoying the bike’s spirited side, while improving comfort on rides exceeding three hours or so.

Given the bars unusual profiles, I’ve erred towards silicones, which can give a slightly chunkier look but offer phenomenal grip and damping.  The frameset is made from plain gauge 531 and coupled with the 28mm tyres, carbon bars and titanium stem suggest a sprightly, yet compliant ride. Broadly true, although tempered by the deep section rims and large flange hubs. These accelerate quickly but can also feel quite direct, given three hours or so.

Thus far, the pairing is proving a good fit, but we’ll see how the weeks and miles pass.  I also took the decision to introduce a Genetic Neuron Accessory Bar GENETIC NEURON ACCESSORY BAR | cycling-not-racing since I wanted a sleeker aesthetic. The 70mm “perch” was also wrapped in some leftover Cinelli Cork for grip. I stand by my statement regarding length, but have managed to mount the Allty 400 and ORP Smarthorn TESTED: ORP SMART HORN together and without issue.

I’d received an 18 tooth Halo fixed sprocket, so decided to whip Muffin’s wheel out and check how well the Zefal pro II Grease was faring after some very soggy, wintry months. Using the Feedback Sports Cassette Pliers Feeback Sports Cassette Pliers | cycling-not-racing both 16 and 17 tooth fixed sprockets released readily. Ample grease remained on the threads. A fresh lick of grease on the threads and I spun the 18 and 17 tooth sprockets fully home. This also presented the opportunity to give Muffin a deep clean. Yes, including beneath the Mudhugger Gravel Hugger Mudguard MUD HUGGER GRAVEL HUGGER MUDGURADS | cycling-not-racing and rear triangle.

Dried, I applied a quick dab of primer to two stone chips, reinstated the wheel and set the chain tension. Not done there, I noted the front brake needed a quick tweak and was suddenly gripped by the urge to substitute the 287 V for an Evo V. Before I knew it, the tape was off, cable disconnected, 287 on the bench. Ten minutes later, Evo V and new cable in situ. Modulation and feel were good with the 287 but seemingly superior with the Evo.  I’ve switched to this Genetic Hi-Grip Black tape, since it arrived on my test bench.  For time being, I’ll stick to enjoying some seriously spring-like weather on the Holdsworth.  I'll close here with my review of the Muc-Off Wax Chain Cleaner Muc-Off Chain Wax Cleaner 500ml | cycling-not-racing and Steve's review of the Castelli Espresso 2 Jersey Castelli Espresso2 Jersey | cycling-not-racing   

Reinvention, Regeneration & Reward

 

Genetic Neuron accessory mount in situ across both bikes, I've found a cheap but cheerful stem with 45- degree rise and wasted no time in slotting the Ridgeback Gravel drops in situ, followed by the Dia Compe EVO V levers. There's no getting away from the fact I knew this idea would gather momentum- I could see my mind's mechanisms turning and doubtless you could too. However, it will stay in this state of limbo for now- the existing setup is perfectly functional and in good aesthetic shape, so switching over at this point is not a good use of time and other resources.

However, the perpetual fettler in me is compelled by such urges...By contrast there is also comfort in the familiar and life can force us to adapt, which is ultimately a good thing and very empowering, provided one does not toss in the towel.

I have been left in charge of Seven Day Cyclist Touring Commuting Recreation Rides Tests | Seven Day Cyclist and am having to learn site maintenance and design. Layout was a crucial part of my Newspaper journalism studies and something I struggled with, back in the days of paper and spray-mount. Would certainly explain my anxiety, dare we say the odd mental block. "Come back to it" were the immortal words of sage-like wisdom imparted to me by an old carpenter.  In this instance, I was 17 and struggling to produce some nicely flowing copy in longhand.    

There have been some very stressful moments that teleported me straight back to the final year of my degree over three decades ago. However, in common with that era, there’s similar resolve and determination to overcome the barriers and hurdles. Riding helps with perspective in all facets of life, although particularly pouring over something in a stuck position. However, there is also a huge difference between a positive break and running away or otherwise putting things off.

I’d introduced a Genetic Neuron Accessory MountGENETIC NEURON ACCESSORY BAR | cycling-not-racing to Denise  but then discovered I hadn’t a "Goldilocks" shim that would achieve vice-like tenure with the auction site special camera mount and Neuron’s 22.2mm extension tube. Some lateral thought, a rummage through the scraps box unearthed  some scrap  Ergon Orthocell Handlebar Tape Ergon Orthocell Handlebar Tape | cycling-not-racing, which is 3mm thick, thus double as a shim, offer some damping, while protecting the Neuron’s finish. Got me thinking about Scott’s Drop In Bar from the late 1980s- I recall someone running a set on their winter bike, mounting lights on the lower sections. However. They appear to be 26.4 and there’s no way I’d be paying classic prices for them, either.

 Though not inflexible, the Orthocell’s density means its tricker to bind evenly-at least over 70mm, and I’ve needed to apply electrical tape to both ends. Not as neat as I envisaged but passable aesthetically and very functional. I had toyed with mounting the camera lower, but experimentation confirmed brake and gear cable runs precluded this. It would’ve also meant less control when dis/engaging the camera. Presented an opportunity to grease the mounting hardware using some of the Zefal Pro Grease Zefal Pro II Grease | cycling-not-racing, which seems very effective, durable and seriously good value. Superb for hubs, headsets and contact points-especially on working bikes. I’d opt for Peaty’s Speed Grease PEATY'S SPEED GREASE | cycling-not-racing on Hollowtech II axles, and I’d steer away from suspension components but as general use workshop staples go, the Zefal seems hard to beat.

Muc Off Dark Energy Chain Wax continues to impress with its friction busting and seemingly durable properties, which will hopefully extend chain and other component life into the bargain.  Traditionally, dry and wax formulas have been great for cleanliness, low friction and responsive shifting in dry and dusty conditions, but required regular reapplication, especially when things turned showery, let alone wet. 

This is changing and while the Dark Energy is relatively pricey compared with some other waxes, performance is reassuringly good and then of course, this could be recouped courtesy of lower maintenance. The lack of dirt, grime and contaminant should also mean you're replacing sensitive, not to mention expensive drivetrain components less frequently. 

Horses for Courses is a phrase that still holds sway in my world. Someone recently substituted a healthy 105 group set for RX100, which might seem a strange choice, but they felt it made the bike more practical as a regular driver. I recall some folks saying they "Wouldn't put RX100 on a pram" when it was released back in the 90s.  

However, the 7/8 speed group is less exotic, thus less immediately attractive to casual thieves when locking up in the street, on an errand and 7/8 speed chains tend to wear better. I've had 2,000 miles, maybe a little more from a KMC fed a middleweight wet lube, such as Weldtite's All Conditions Lube Weldtite All Weather Lube | cycling-not-racing By contrast, a typical ten-speed chain has been bin fodder come 1400miles, like-for-like.   

Panniers & Other Practicalities

 

Decent panniers are not simply for touring, they're great for commuting and general lugging duties. I've been particularly impressed by the Lomo Zephyr, which seem rugged, and well organised, without being overly prescriptive. The roll top closure, welded seams and fully waterproof construction are ultra-practical and impressive for the price. Waterproof is a term begging for contradiction, and nothing is truly totally impermeable. For these reasons, I often line panniers with a bin liner to keep clothes, or anything potentially perishable from getting damp in a torrential storm, or should a visually shallow crossing prove otherwise.

 

In the more mundane sense, the last thing you want is to arrive at work with soggy clothes and food, reinforcing the unkempt cyclist narrative. Halfords have sent their Advanced Waterproof Pannier. Another budget model at £30, it boasts a twenty-litre capacity, roll top closure welded seams, reflective detailing and a carry strap. The single compartment might seem a little low rent on the one hand and won't suit those looking to segregate laptops, folders and other stuff but also means you can just bung stuff in and scoot off.

 

There's the usual Rixen-Kaul pattern mounting hardware and it feels reassuringly solid.  Let's see what the lanes and trails say... For loads exceeding 10 kilos, I err towards the trailer. However, it's worth noting that panniers can be more practical for extended touring, as Teagan Philips outlined in an interview some ten years back MY BIKE : TEGAN PHILLIPS' SURLY DISC TRUCKER.  Similarly, some folks prefer frame mounted for improved aerodynamics. I can appreciate that, especially in a more competitive gravel, or bike packing context. When it comes to trailers, single wheel designs are the most practical for singletrack and generally speaking, track better behind the bike, thus have less impact upon handling.

 

However, be mindful of not going into autopilot, forgetting the trailer. Especially when tackling roundabouts, more densely trafficked areas, or tighter sections of trail. I've had my Yak homage trundling behind the fixed from time to time, the lack of a steadying rear brake gave food for thought when negotiating descents. Oh, and momentum's a must on the climbs! Reminds me, I've been contemplating an 18tooth sprocket for Muffin, which would smooth out the climb without inducing spin-out on the descents. Halo produces a very affordable example. 

 

Staying with brakes and solos, discs are great (hydraulic the best) but so are well-honed cantilever, or V brakes. Gearing is also a consideration of derailleur setups. Largely a moot point on contemporary touring lorries and gravel grinders but ensure you've a bail-out option, should you find yourself needing to winch along a one in four with twenty kilos trundling behind.

 

While I've found both genuine Yak and homage's wheels to be rather low-rent, they're functional enough- although I'd upgrade the tyre at the earliest available opportunity and be inclined toward getting a better wheel built ahead of a big tour My homage's mudguard was trickier to get along with, hence I dispensed with it early on.  The dry sack is another one of those useful-gets-you-going offerings that will pay for itself. However, while the fabric is waterproof, stitched construction means it will allow water to penetrate. Again, I'd upgrade to something like this Lomo but as an interim measure, taping, or indeed gluing the seams might serve. 

 

I've found this, coupled with the bin liner method reasonably effective. Though by no means essential, radar-type technology comes in very handy with trailers-at least along open roads, giving audible and visual proximity of an approaching vehicle. The Coospo TR70 Radar Tail Light Coospo TR70 Radar Taillight | cycling-not-racing  will communicate with a head unit, whether a computer, such as their CS600, or a handlebar mounted smartphone up to a distance of 10 metres (30 feet) practical for tandem and trailer duties, too.

As an aside, the Coospo TR70 appears to have an edge over the BBB Signal Radar, when it comes to accuracy, although both are genuinely useful. No substitute for regular glances over the shoulder, but particularly welcome when battling rain and wind.   Another product that has impressed me long term is the Orp Smart horn TESTED: ORP SMART HORN. Mine are still very functional almost nine years down the line, although the "whale tail" buzzer is wearing, thus only capable of producing the louder 94 decibel option-although when deployed at a sensible distance, ideal for alerting dog walkers and others of my approach. Again, particularly in blustery conditions.  

 

Elsewhere, I've been running the Continental Terra at the upper end of their pressure range-65psi (34-72psi) and have been impressed by their swift acceleration and seemingly low rolling resistance. Cornering prowess and dry weather grip are also reassuringly good, but I wonder how they'll perform when the rains come-especially since they're primarily intended for dry hardpack. Puncture resistance is another area I'm yet to explore. We're at that formative "getting to know you" dare I say, honeymoon phase, so their true persona and limitations are yet to be revealed. I’ll leave you with my thoughts on Ursula’s makeover eighteen months along…Ursula Makeover & Mod Pt IV | cycling-not-racing

Easter Treats

Easter is usually associated with biblical matters, eggs, bunnies and similar festivities. I've always wanted to visit the Czech Republic to witness the Pomlazka, sometimes referred to as the "Easter Beatings" but thus far this too has eluded me. Must do better.

Easter is also traditionally a time when the temperature drops, and this year has been no exception. However, changeable conditions are relatively easy to navigate with the right kit. Arm, leg and neck warmers extend the horizons of shorts and short-sleeve jerseys and pack down small, so easily stowed away in jersey pockets, or wedge packs. Same goes for gilets, glove liners (slip these beneath mitts for some additional warmth and protection).

However, the gusty winds have brought the temperatures closer to single digits, hence I’ve been sticking to long sleeve middleweight jerseys, ¾ lengths, technical jackets, and middleweight full finger gloves.  Merino/Polyester mixes are my chosen fabrics for arm and neck warmers, socks too, for the most part unless conditions dictate waterproof models, although when monsoon conditions strike, I’ve donned booties, such as these venerable Shimano Shimano MW7 (MW702) Gore Tex MTB Shoes | cycling-not-racing, which though primarily aimed at mountain bike audiences, make excellent transition to gravel and general riding-assuming you’re riding in twin bolt (SPD, Time Etc) cleats, since you can also walk comfortably in them, while still enjoying excellent power transfer. 

 Continental have sent me some new rubber- their Terra trail in 700x40c, which was an unexpected and very welcome surprise. Not that I’ve had any issues with the Maxxis Ravager Maxxis Ravager TR Tyres | cycling-not-racing, or Rambler Maxxis Rambler Tubeless Ready Tyres | cycling-not-racing, save for the odd thorn invading the casing, inducing a flat but that’s to be expected during the darker months where hedge clipping is pretty routine (and wet mud serves as a very effective lubricant).

I’ve also resurrected my action camera, which required Ursula’s Garmin pattern and auction site camera mount trading places but proved a blessing in disguise. This also prompted me to reflect upon future developments.

There's much to like about Tektro's RL520. Nice modulation and feel, shapely levers, great hoods for cruising comfort, inbuilt quick release and wallet-friendly price. However, the use of composites, especially the cable routing eventually ovalizes, hindering cable pull and ultimately brake function. I've also broken one in a tumble back in January '25. 

Having opted for Dia Compe's long serving 287 with Muffin and found the modulation, feel and overall performance pleasing but based on this experience, fancied something with a little more refinement for Ursula, once the RL520 turn sloppy.

I'd had my eye on their shapelier Evo V for a while, but wanted assurances the price differential was not simply down to aesthetics. Ison Distribution confirmed the region beneath the hood is also aluminium alloy, so a suitably robust choice long term.

I've toyed with going the full hydraulic route on several occasions but cannot justify the price differential. Besides, the Spyre SLC perform rather well, so long as you've opted for good quality compression less cable sets, such as this Jagwire Road Elite Jagwire Road Elite Sealed Brake Kit | cycling-not-racing. 

After much deliberation, I indulged in the Evo V as an Easter gift to Ursula but had no intention of fitting until the Tektro RL520 start turning sloppy, or a cable replacement and fresh bar tape are called for. The Wolf Tooth Supple Lite Wolf Tooth Supple Lite Bar Tape | cycling-not-racing is still in great shape, offers excellent grip and surprising levels of comfort, despite being relatively thin (2.5mm) although as many will point out, Ursula sports portly rubber and a compliant carbon fork which significantly dampen rougher sections of trail.

I've decided to add a Genetic Neuron Bar Mount GENETIC NEURON ACCESSORY BAR | cycling-not-racing to host additional light and indeed action camera. Though I would prefer a slightly broader mount (100mm, rather than the 70mm to be specific) its accurately machined and the mount can sit flush against the stem, or at least, close to.  

I'll tuck it underneath to keep things relatively clean, in turn overcoming some of the minor shortcomings of the Soma II SOMA CONDOR 2 SHALLOW DROP BARS |. I have no intention of running a bar bag, so no issues with fouling - panniers and rack top luggage, or Yak homage trailer give ample load lugging options.  For the record, I'm fond of smaller bar bags, such as this Cycology See Me Pink Cycology See Me Pink Handlebar Bag | cycling-not-racing and indeed, the Oxford Aqua Evo Adventure since they have nominal impact upon handling and in the Cycology's case, doesn't rest against the head tube.    

While hunting for something else, I found a few packets of anodised aluminium bottle screws, two were ported over with a blob of grease to muffin’s cages, the other to Ursula and prompted me to forgo the Topeak  2 Stage Gravel Mini Pump Topeak Gravel 2 Stage Mini Pump | cycling-not-racing  its left the frame and now sits in a Lomo Zephyr Lomo Zephyr Waterproof Panniers | cycling-not-racing along with some spare tubes, multi tool etc, should a stricken rider need to borrow it.

By no means a “white knight”, I’ve been stranded myself and will help if someone is struggling. I will often carry a contingency 700c, or 26-inch tube. Old, and maybe patched to my limit, that I wouldn’t worry about passing on, but good enough to get someone home. I've been there once or twice myself, when a spare has failed, or something more serious has struck. It's easy to be self-righteous, but we can all succumb to a mechanical, and while I'd never let anyone take kindness as weakness, I'd rather lend a hand than leave someone stranded.I'll leave you with Steve's review of the POC Ventral Air MIPS Helmet POC Ventral Air MIPS Helmet | cycling-not-racing