Musing

Here’s a few shots from December’s shoot at the Cottage Studio http://www.thecottagestudio.co.uk/  with Elle Beth http://www.ellebethmodel.com/   .Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been commissioned by other models elsewhere in the UK, seeking to expand their port-folio in 2018.

Some follow the fine art narrative, others seeking something more visually dramatic, or indeed, provocative in tone. I’m happy doing either, considering each on their own merit. Nothing (legal) is off limits, save for gratuitously pornographic.

Salty and slippery stuff licked the first application of nasty lube clean after 300miles, so I topped it up and resumed testing. Cleanliness is better than I was expecting, although predictably, my chain’s outer plates were sporting a gungy beard. Less problematic on a fixed/hub/single speed transmission. However, I’d be wiping these weekly on a derailleur geared build to avert component consumption.

Those 38mm Soma are delivering precisely what I was expecting from a tyre marketed as for road and commuting duties. “Gravel” has been a big thing for a while and for me, has captured the original spirit of mountain biking. Vernier in hand, they actually came closer to 35mm, which didn’t surprise me, having learned they’re made for Soma by Panaracer. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover they’re also available in more traditional 23 and 28mm road sections too.

The Shikoro takes its name from the neck armour used by Samori warriors, inferring a tough, puncture repelling casing. The polyamide puncture repelling bead runs edge to edge, rather than simply covering the centre strip. Bodes well, given the roads can be decidedly unforgiving this time of year

Supple, leach like cornering prowess and a magic carpet ride. Unlike other vehicles, bicycle tyres needn’t have any tread. The Shikoro is basically a low-profile gravel pattern, which coupled with the puncture repelling qualities, suggest a tyre best suited to hard-pack/dry gravel/cross meets, interspersed with longer sections of asphalt.

A decent quality slick (not to be confused with bald) tyre, run at the correct pressures is arguably optimal for tarmac duties. Thus far, traversing the same roads littered with thorns and similar hedge clippings, hasn’t induced any nicks, or similar damage to the casings, let alone punctures.

I was surprised by the operating pressures, which range from 35-90psi, closer to that of a tubeless system. In theory at least, this should cover the entire zodiac of riding conditionals. Minimal rolling resistance on virgin asphalt, optimal traction on loose, icy surfaces.

Obviously, rider (and luggage) weight also play a part.  Current trends suggest an extra 1% pressure for every extra kilo. Working on this basis, 70-75psi should prove optimal. We’ll see. So far, run at their maximum, they don’t feel remotely harsh, although by my reckoning, big tyres should be compliant and comfortable at the upper end of their operating pressures.

The sudden resumption of wintry weather proved an ideal opportunity to see just how well Schwalbe Marathon 365 perform in the ice. Reassuringly well, it appears. Sure, spikes add another level of confidence but run at 65psi, their wide profiles hugged the tarmac, 15-17mph through the slushier stuff with no apparent skittishness.

In this context, their additional girth isn’t a hindrance. Admittedly, the machine’s more upright positioning also helps keep things on track.

This recent chill snap has also made me grateful for these Lake booties, which are far more convenient than overshoes when it comes to beating the brrr factor. These are MTB versions, which also provide scope for more adventurous outings sans asphalt. Not your bag but wanting a rugged set of boots that you can also do a day’s work in? Take a look at Steve Dyster’s test of these Chrome Storm 415 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/chrome-storm-415-cycling-work-boot . Happy New Year!