Austin Vince Interview now live on Seven Day Cyclist http://www.sevendaycyclist.com/austin-vince-world-view , replacement forks and headset
behaving impeccably, I’ve been able to sit back and enjoy some serious fun on
the Ilpompino. However, despite recent battery replenishments, its’ otherwise
seriously cheerful, Revolution Velocity 20 function bar mounted computer has
been delivering some frustratingly erratic readings.
Close proximity to pylons, electricity substations and other sources of
current were once notorious for sending wireless units haywire. Some pros still
prefer wired systems for absolute accuracy. Standalone heart rate monitors and
more recently, GPS based tech have also been linked to this kind of disruption.
These were non issues with both Geonaute escape series action cameras
and their remote triggers. Thoughts turned to the Tom Tom Bandit but leaving it
at home for a few rides ruled this out.
Given the Velocity was a tester and Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative are
now offering them for £10; after eighteen months’ faithful service; a quick
rummage in my gizmo box unearthed this fuchsia/pink Knog Nerd. Fresh batteries,
lick of Vaseline on the battery contacts and a quick bit of recalibration
later-job done.
Elsewhere, new, heavy duty tubeless rim tape coupled with a fresh
delivery of tubes cured the Holdsworth’s butyl munching tendencies. Timely then
since a set of 26mm Bontrager R3 TLR (Tubless Ready) tyres had been sent my
way...
There is little doubt in my mind that tubeless will become the dominant
system, although rather akin to tubulars, I don’t expect tubes to become
obsolete. Tubeless tyres have been around for a good decade or so and have
several advantages.
Puncture resistance, especially at lower pressures explains why they
caught on with mountain bike and ‘cross audiences. Additional traction through
the gloop makes all the difference.
The R3 also employ a “lightweight sub tread” material for additional
puncture resistance, which is welcomed, whether you’ve gone for wholesale
conversion or want a slower, tubes first transition. There’s a definite knack
to getting them aboard-some rims are easier than others but having nearly
succumbed to a full blown, lever hurling meltdown; I’d recommend watching the
Bontrager you tube tutorial first. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PR6e065lFn0
Operating pressures are decidedly modest by traditional wire on/tubular
standards, although run at 105psi; they’re responsive with leach-like cornering
prowess through saturated S bends, yet deliver a very compliant ride over
washboard surfaces. Punctures have been a moot point to date and I’m fast
forming the opinion these are excellent choices for for winter/trainers and
other situations where you want to stick with one set of tyres year round.
While out in the Ka, I found myself following the TFB (Tadworth Fat
boys) team. http://www.tadworthfatboys.co.uk/tadworth-fat-boys-social-cycle-group/
Having overtaken them a couple of miles earlier, I drew into a clearing
and took a chance on my CSC’s lithium ion battery. Luckily, 40% charge remained
and the 50-200 5.6 lens was already fitted; so I ran off a few shots from a
comfortable distance.
Returning home, I decided to give the Univega a good clean, degrease the
drivetrain and re-lube. Click, grumble, whirr...Rear wheel bearings fine, cassette
snug, freehub mechanism...On the way out.
This is another loyal, wallet friendly servant that doesn’t owe me
anything. Detractors suggest it can’t cope with poor weather, let alone trail
duties. Granted, it’s a very simple cup n’ cone model, one up from Alivio with
similarly basic weather seals; nonetheless with basic care, mine has racked up
20,000 miles through snow and high water.
Machine built hoop with higher quality Deore hub can be had for £60 from
reputable suppliers, so I have a very clear write-off figure in mind. Short on
time; I got in touch with Alan at Riverside Cycle Centre, who agreed to do a
strip n’ service on Tuesday, since I was in his neck of the woods. That’s about
it for this week, off to familiarise myself with this remote trigger for Sony
SLR/CSC systems...
