Google and other search engines have been throwing all manner of temptations my way, although specifically older road fixed gear framesets from the 50s, through to the 80s. Some needing more work than others. The latest being a Geoffrey Butler made from 531 throughout, track ends, mudguard eyes etc- a very practical winter cum trainer but then I remind myself, I already have my beloved Holdsworth and a nice, fixed gear/winter trainer that has been refined and tailored to my tastes, so indulging would be precisely that an unnecessary indulgence.
Left unchecked, window shopping is a dangerous thing, and the internet makes resistance all the harder Besides, I’ve got Ursula’s renewal to get on with before winter comes Since we’re on the subject, all our bikes become custom bikes in the end. Components wear and are replaced, depending on budget, personal taste, riding style.
Sometimes we may upgrade, sometimes stick with the same grade of drivetrain, brakes etc, especially if a bike is being recommissioned as winter/trainer. I’ve said this before, but I’m more interested in the sometimes more eclectic but reciprocal collection of components on people’s working bikes, rather than packet fresh, top-drawer playthings.
Same applied to motorcycles, although obviously, I can fully appreciate a sunny day’s, no expense spared plaything, bespoke tourer, tandem, tandem trike-whatever the build’s genre. As a childhood friend once commented, “Gotta have some want Mike, gotta indulge now and then.” Something my late father would also say and they’re right. The important thing is wanting what you have and enjoying it.
Talking of the past, I recognised the name on an accountants office, it was from school. They had a very distinctive surname, so I was confident it was the same person. They had a beautiful Rosso Red and chrome Olmo that was also dripping in top- flight Campagnolo components when we were seventeen. I recall him out riding it on a slushy January afternoon in 1991-I was returning from a day at FE college on my workhorse Holdsworthy Butler (sans chrome and with dynamo, full length guards, 28mm tyres and rack).
He and I weren’t close, just in the same form and frankly, for me, other than a pleasantry, or kind word, I’m not interested in talking with a stranger-unless it has some tangible relevance now. Smile, nod and move on. That’s not to say my curiosity isn’t sparked from time to time. Someone may pass through my thoughts but again, these are shared, fleeting histories, nothing more.
Whooosh! Back to 2024 and I’ve Ursula to package and send to Winston Vaz. I’ve also received these Grip Grab RC Max Short Finger Gloves, which promise to “excel in every aspect expected of summer cycling gloves”.
Padding is a mix of high-density and memory foam, promising superior protection from vibration and general fatigue. The ventilated palms are a micro suede (synthetic to you and I), while the backs continue this narrative, comprising of an elasticated mesh. The formative, mixed terrain 200 miles have proven very favourable- I've only noticed them in the most positive sense. Steve’s been impressed by these Sportful Matchy Gloves Sportful Matchy Gloves | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com)
There are many things my military motorcycle instructor said that have stayed with me. One was about eyes and that we only get one pair, so look after them. Decent quality glasses are our best defence against UV light, wind, dust, rain and of course, projectiles. I’ve been sent these.
Magicshine are most commonly associated with lighting, so given their experience with optics, it’s not that much of a quantum leap. These feature Broad 6 base curve, photochromic lenses for improved peripheral protection, rubberised anti-slip nose, temple tips for optimal fit.
The generous coverage seems to offer comprehensive protection and without attracting grime- the sort that transfers from fingers, along with the usual culprits- rain, spatter, and similar wet stuff. As I’m always saying everything feels “different” to begin with and the miles will reveal whether this difference is beneficial, detrimental, or something in between. I usually enjoy finding out. On that note, I’ll leave you with my review of the Maxxis Ravager Maxxis Ravager TR Tyres | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com)
