Changes for change's sake and indirectly “adding to the pile” is a temptation I fight hard. Anecdotally, I’m not the only one vulnerable to this urge…I’d acquired a Tiagra long-reach dual pivot brake calliper for the Holdsworth. It looked to offer superior rigidity and therefore, stopping prowess compared to a Tektro R38. It also meant I could complete the revamp in one run, should the XLC unit prove too short. I was also relieved to discover the steerers were identical lengths, so my measuring was reliable. This means there’s no call to prune the new steerer.
One inch Star Fangled Nut unearthed, I pondered a small round file, rather than a drill and 8mm bit to widen the rear crown drilling so it will accept a recessed brake bolt.
I reasoned it was quicker to go slow. You can always shave a little more off, you can’t put metal back. Impatience is perilous at this stage. I added a drop of Muc-Off Wet Lube MUC-OFF WET LUBE | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) to the bit and commenced at a moderate speed. A few minutes later and periodic checking, the recessed bolt slid in beautifully. Relieved, I fitted the Tiagra, which confirmed I needed a longer reach than the XLC. On a roll, I installed a new SFN and ended the session there, while I was ahead, psychologically and otherwise. Theoretically, it's just a matter of switching the crown race and removing a spacer or two.
While on this search and rescue mission, I unearthed Topeak Alien ii multitool.
One of the best pocket workshop models I’ve used and with functions, such as ring spanners missing from most contemporary multi tools. These also lock, for convenience and efficiency. The Passport CDW PASSPORT CDW MULTITOOL | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) is a very charming homage. It’s joined the fixed gear winter/trainer’s Carradice Super C Rack Bag. The long-serving Carradice is made from “Cotton duck” and, since it attaches via four Velcro straps, so arguably a universal, possibly future-proof fit. I’m a huge fan of Carradice luggage-the SQR range of bags, which are particularly good for day riding, if you didn’t want, or like racks and the host bike had a metal post.
I have the Super C SQR Tour and the Carradry SQR bag. Both will manage a whopping 10 kilos, but the Carradry is the way forward, if you’re looking to venture off road since it's incredibly easy to wipe clean. Being suspended away from the bike, they’re a safer bet for those electricals I was referring to earlier.
However, when heavily laden, the high centre of gravity becomes apparent-especially when climbing out of the saddle on a windy day. I’d ported the Cycology bar bagCycology See Me Pink Handlebar Bag | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) over to the fixed gear winter/trainer’s Genetic Riser 4 GENETIC DRISER 4 HANDLEBARS | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) for a bit.
Rack top bags are very convenient but even those that have a lined base should not host cameras, or other sensitive electrical equipment, since vibrations are transmitted from the rack-regardless of material. I’ve noticed some percussion when riding across washboard tarmac with the Carradice en tow.
Hot on the heels of Ursula’s chain were the brake pads. I’d thought the slight squeal might be attributable to glaze, but the pads were worn close to 1mm. Not surprising, given sustained exposure to flooding and generally adverse wintry conditions. During the treasure hunt, I’d discovered two sets of Disco Brakes, so took this as my cue Disco Disc Brake Pads and Wavey Rotors | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com), so took a post-ride opportunity to switch.
Pads, regardless of whether rim, or disc brake can wear very quickly and beyond a certain point, will eat into rotors and rims- much like a worn chain will chomp through rings, derailleurs, and cassettes. I’m also impressed by the Carbon Cycles SPD pattern cleats, which engage and release very snappily with Shimano and homage designs and are proving refreshingly durable.
Talking of one-does-all, Steve has replaced his recently deceased Dawes Galaxy with Surly’s Long Haul Trucker. It’s always been one of those “from the crate” Beasts of Burden that always fired my imagination. 26-inch wheels might be a little dated nowadays but there’s still plenty of choice tyre and rim-wise and the frame has sufficient clearance for 26x2.1 sans guards. A generous wheelbase and double-butted 4130 main triangle bodes well for stability when hauling the kitchen sink. Yes, I’d certainly give one a home, if space allowed, although, I’d probably indulge in a Grappler too. You know, to keep it company... Ah, hedge clipping season's in full swing...
