Bombproof
go anywhere dependability https://www.facebook.com/Sevendaycyclistmagazine/posts/1885288428168746?notif_id=1523350698147526¬if_t=page_post_reaction&ref=notif and a super slick, low friction transmission
seemed a very alluring combination.
I go through “Garbo” phases of not wanting to speak, or otherwise engage with people, at least in a social context. This very much depends on their energies. Introverted by nature, professionally, I am quite loquacious but require periods of isolation, outside of working hours to recharge.
The
ability to deviate from metalled roads, be alone with my thoughts and whatever
kit I’m playing with, is imperative.
Not
that reflecting is wasted time but something, tangibly productive needs to come
from it. 400 miles on my beloved fixed gear winter/trainer hence, and I’ve
formed my conclusions, where the 32mm Panaracer T-serv PT and Vee Rubber Baldy
are concerned. Both are favourable, albeit with different charms.
Verdicts
reached, I wasted no time swapping over to the 42mm Zilent and following
behind, 33mm Soma Supple Vitesse. These are the EX (Extra wear) tread compound,
which as the name suggests, is designed with durability in mind.
Formative
(50 mile) impressions are of svelte, grippy and fast rolling rubber, yet with a
surprisingly compliant persona. Reminiscent of their Shikoro cousins https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/s but a fraction friskier. Clearance a bit
tighter? The Vee Tire co Rolldiac are another good choice, for general riding
and speed-biased commuting https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/vee-tire-rolldiac-tyres
Just
as well, given the pock marked and badly patched infrastructure. I was even
greeted with some impromptu “gravel” on Tuesday morning’s escape. The big, swoopy Soma Condor bars continue to
seduce me with their buxom charms, affording excellent control. A little narrower
than the midge, and this is apparent when out of the saddle (which is more
frequent on the fixed, say powering away from the lights, or along a gradient).
By
the same token the Condor feel markedly stiffer, resulting in a tighter feel up
front. The build’s portlier tyres, steel frame and carbon composite fork,
retain a very compliant ride quality.
I’m
often contemplating locations for photoshoots/scenarios. The Univega’s
all-terrain persona is perfect for scouting beyond the beaten track. Abandoned
buildings make fantastic settings but are fast in decline, thanks to demand for
redevelopment. They also present a wealth of potential hazards for models and
photographer alike.
Iconic
red phone boxes, most now left for prosperity (or as makeshift urinals for
those whose bladders, have reached the 500 odd millilitre capacities en route
home from the pub/a mate’s house) have scope for fashion/similar portraiture.
This
one was often frequented by yours truly, as a teenager. Calls home, advising of
impending lateness, due to a mechanical, or sheepishly requesting rescue. Provided
I got through to an Au Pair, not the cat, things were generally fine. Alas,
this one’s a bit exposed for anything vaguely arty and though temperatures have
mellowed somewhat, the climate is still sketchy for location work.
Hence,
I’m busy in the Studio. Here’s a few of Amelia Mary Instagram: @ameliamaryorvis another highly professional and
accomplished model. Photographed last week, at Mark Coventry’s Clacton Studio https://www.markcoventry.com/
