Winter
technically begins on the 21st of December. While the weather follows
the UK narrative (i.e. mild and wet), I’m prepping the fleet for the kind of
apocalyptic conditions predicted by our red top, tabloid press. Talking of
which, here’s our guide to winter, bike preparation https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/winter-wonderland-one
First up, I’ve replaced my fixed gear winter/trainer’s KMC Z1 inox
https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/kmc-inox-chain chain, which has served several thousand miles.
Why? Well I received this Passport Galvanised unit, which tips the
scales, at a reassuringly substantial 309g. 133 less than the KMC. Weight wasn’t
the motivating factor. Its also half the KMC’s asking price, so I’ll be keeping
a watchful eye on longevity/durability.
I’ve used “rustless” galvanised designs to good effect, on my
Univega. However, they still require regular, light lubrication. I also noticed
a tendency for them to succumb to the dreaded orange taint, once the galvanised
component, finally wore through. I say finally, since I racked up 2,000 wet,
grotty miles from a budget 8spd model.
Nigh on dry from the packet ensures fitment was a very clear
affair and proved the ideal opportunity, to start testing that chainsaw oil.
My hypothesis is that it will prove more durable, compared with
the 5w/40. After 285 miles, that applied to the KMC was almost spent. However, my
Univega’s electroplated Sram has cruised past 300 and at this rate, I reckon
its good for another 150.
Obviously, snowy, slushy conditions may well reduce this. Its
worth pointing out that the factory lubricant most chains are impregnated with,
is similarly tenacious. Makes sense to run that, get your money’s worth and then
use your chosen tipple.
Workstands make maintenance and repair considerably easier, since
machines are held securely, and at a convenient height.
Price dictates quality.
The needs of a home enthusiast, who may use theirs a few times
each week, are different to the demands of a shop/pro mechanic. My lightweight
Revolution (Edinburgh Bicycle Co-op) unit continues to serve me very well,
after 10 years.
There’s some tell-tale flex, apparent when tackling high torque applications,
such as bottom bracket replacement, or seized contact points. Otherwise, its
solid, convenient, and very portable.
Oxford products have sent me their Torque Workshop Stand. This
also retails at £99.99, employs a similar composite head but is considerably
heavier.
This translates as superior rigidity. Ideal when tackling those
more stubborn tasks. Less convenient for popping in the car, say for race day.
Several weeks of intensive fettling will provide more tangible
insight/conclusion.
Now for the rider. Oxford also sent us these Bright Gloves 3.0.
They’re a relatively slender, nimble waterproof design with a tech friendly index tip. I was slightly
surprised to discover the gloves have an operating range of between +5 and 10
degrees, less than the Lusso I’ve been testing. On the other hand, its more
typical of a milder, British winter. Oxford will be sending us the 4.0 too, which are theoretically windproof, too.
Temperature is also a very personal thing. An hour or so, at +4 hasn’t left me with chill
hands but crosswinds and other factors may say different, especially on longer
outings.
Some folks are more sensitive than others; or find temperature
harder to regulate. Wind chill can render numbers academic. Dexterous digits
are another definite plus when choosing winter gloves. I’ve had some “duvet”
types, which have been blissfully comfortable, when the mercury’s slipping
close to zero.
Unfortunately, a flat, mechanical, or phone call can dictate their
removal, resulting in precisely the numbness, and cold they were intended to
counter.
Staying with cold weather kit, Steve has also been very impressed
by these Stolen Goat Deep winter Bib Tights https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/stolen-goat-deep-winter-bib-tights
So, thoughts turn to Christmas. Any of these make decent
main/stocking filler presents but if you are struggling to buy for those riders
in your life. The sort who appear to have everything, then how about the
re-hook tool. Hardly essential but its designed to reclaim a dropped chain,
reputedly in three seconds. No mess, no fuss. www.rehook.bike/guide
Alternatively, Stenning Photographic Offers high quality 100x100cm
(Other sizes available on request) canvas prints https://michael-stenning.format.com/store
