Ok, so I’ve had more difficult conversations with my mother, and I don’t mean VD. I am of course referring to that strange Thursday night phenomenon that is applauding keyworkers, during the UK lockdown. I understand this is well-intentioned and induces a sense of morale and cohesion. However, if people want the NHS and other front-line services to continue, they need to target politicians and lobby for proper, sustained investment.
Obviously, model portfolio-building https://stenningphotographic.blogspot.com/2020/ and similar, social photography is out just now, so I’m supplementing my other freelance income with some temping. In short, an agency rang to discuss my experience in a previous front-line trade, offered me some work (I needed the money) and here we are.
Spleen vented, back in the saddle...
Much as I predicted, after another 150 miles, the Giles Berthoud Saddle has conformed to my sit bones, church pew numbness a long and distant memory. Nonetheless, it’ll be another few hundred before it assumes the same, subtle support provided by this Ti railed Spa Aire but compliant enough for now. Some might say masochistic, though I’ve found strangely satisfying.
Checking my Univega’s chain, it’s in very good health, 600 miles in. On present form, I’m reckoning another 1200 before it passes on, to The Great Bike Shop in The Sky.
I’ve another KMC waiting in the winds and was tempted to load up on another, when I remembered seeing a packet fresh, gold Sun Race unit, during my last rationalisation of the garage. Unless I spot something suitable going for the proverbial song, I’ll use existing resources.
I’m sticking with a two-coat helping of Zefal Pro Dry lube for now, since the weather’s turned damp again. I’m also thinking in terms of switching to Weldtite TF2 Ultra Dry Chain Wax https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/weldtite-tf2-ultra-dry-chain-wax if conditions remain arid, Weldtite TF2 Performance All Weather Lubricant https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/weldtite-tf2-performance-all-weathe if the forecast favours precipitation.
It has this week, which has presented the ideal opportunity to put a budget waterproof commuter jacket through its paces. £70 generally buys a garment that is more waterproof, than breathable. That said; I’ve been able to bowl along for 20 miles or so, at a steady 18mph without feeling “boiled in the bag”.
Commuting continues to rise in popularity, given the present situation and desire to avoid crowded public spaces/transit. Brompton’s iconic small wheeler is a solid contender for those looking to ride shorter distances and wanting something that will go, stop and handle in good proportion. We’ve been putting their B75 through its paces. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/brompton-b75
Zefal has also kindly sent me these crank and paint armor, which should keep my mile munching mainstay looking fresh. I’ve gone over to these Continental Speed Reflex tyres, to see whether they’re any sprightlier than the mighty Schwalbe Marathon Mondial Double Defence https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/schwalbe-marathon-mondial-tyres .
Formative impressions are of a quick rolling, compliant tyre with decent grip but 400-500miles will give much better insight into their characteristics, pros, cons etc.
I’ve also switched to these long serving and slightly careworn Scott sport shoes. They’ve served 12 years, on and off. They’re a twin bolt road model with stiffer soles than the Triban 500 I’ve defaulted to, these past few months.
They've also got a set of specialist insoles which corrects the (minimal) femur imbalance, which can otherwise induce misalignment and shoulder pain, on longer rides. Took the opportunity to whip on some new, genuine Shimano cleats, too. Despite nylon washers and other, vibration thwarting goodies, mudguards and other little fasteners still work themselves loose.
Some low level but annoying chatter was traced to my Univega’s SKS Bluemels Shiny Mudguards. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/sks-blumels-shiny-mudguards Though most fasteners are now Allen, or Torx, mudguards are still 10mm nuts. I always carry a Y type socket wrench. (I’ve had it for 30 years) but Topeak Alien ii still has the 8,9 and 10mm ring types for these little jobs and I’m really pleased to see it, still in production.
