Damp and perpetually gloomy November weather seems ideal testing ground
for the unsung heroes-lubes, greases, polishes for our bikes, waterproof socks,
gloves and of course beanies to keep us churning away in relative comfort.
However, my tempo along the lanes is dictated by an advancing black dog called
D. Depression is an overused term but in its real forms, a genuinely horrible,
debilitating condition that I am determined to avoid. Right now I am very low
and see this as the body’s way of communicating a need to confront some fairly
fundamental stuff festering unchecked for some time.
A major component of this is professional frustration. My journalism/photography
brings immense satisfaction and defines me on so many levels. Contrast this
with an incessant tide of nondescript temporary roles in unrelated fields with
people whom I share little, or no common ground. Therefore, strident efforts
are being made to secure a relevant vocational opportunity that would have
deeply empowering effect upon my outlook right now…Hmm, I’ve got a great face
for radio…Anyone need a slot filling?
Meanwhile, back at the test bench... Motorex bike shine is a spray
formula designed to keep winter’s silt, slurry and spatter from clinging to
polished, painted, plated and even plastic surfaces. However, steer clear of
contact points and braking surfaces, for reasons, which should be obvious… I
was surprised to learn it’s actually silicone based since while these usually
deliver a protective showroom shine fine for bikes in seasonal hibernation,
they generally attract, rather than repel dirt.
Talk of the devil; its solvent carrier gobbles dilute spatter and
similarly light road grime on contact but salt encrusted winter hacks and muddy
crossers will need a good old fashioned bucket wash n’ dry first (cold in the
first context since hot only serves to accelerate the chemically corrosive
reaction). From here, it’s simply a question of spraying short bursts into a
clean lint-free cloth and buffing to a jewelled effect. Previous blends have
been really handy for my cyclo crosser, although several tins of beeswax
furniture polish can e had for the same money and do broadly the same thing,
although admittedly require more frequent application.
Their dry lube is another curiosity, not least since it’s actually a
hybrid, supposedly offering the cleanliness of dry and wets tenacity. Since the
brand specialises in petrochemical products, I expected it to perform well but
hadn’t bargained for the speed at which the chain and to a lesser extent,
cassette looked grubby.
Having cleaned the chain thoroughly to rule out cross contamination,
simply twist the spout and apply, holding some more clean rag or kitchen towel
beneath since it literally races into every link. Initial impressions are
favourable- slick, silent and very tenacious but side plates are demanding
weekly wiping. This sounds ideal for Joshua, since he’s suddenly spread wings
and begun riding to school, although I’ve discovered he’s be sneaking out sans
lights-hence these Torch/One23 have found themselves tethered to handlebars and
helmet.
Soggy feet are another unwelcome winter experience. Overshoes are the
obvious solution since they also protect expensive race slippers from the salt
monster. However, I find them cumbersome at the best of times so was suitably
cheered by the arrival of these thin, calf length Seal Skinz Socks. Fully
waterproof when immersed to the elasticated cuff, they’re incredibly
comfortable worn with all genres of riding footwear and an obvious choice for
mountain biking and cross antics. Odour control seems generally good but
washing’s no more complicated than popping them on a cool, machine cycle.
