Meltdowns & Recoveries

A much-publicised heatwave hit on Monday 17th July (although arguably crept in over the weekend) meaning that my dawn outings were mandatory if I wanted any saddle time. 35-36 degrees is very typical for many Mediterranean countries, and I've experienced 37 plus in more tropical climes, but the UK isn’t geared up for extremes. For good reasons, dogs were either walked at 5ish or not at all, to protect their feet from blistering, not to mention heat exhaustion.

 

Signs had cropped up, warning of loose chippings along the lanes but I reasoned, given the heat, folks weren’t going to be laying these, or indeed tarmac. There’s no statutory maximum legal temperature before people can cease, or decline to work, in the UK. Given the present trajectory, the current administration would simply revoke it- on their much publicised “bonfire” of legislation.  

I found some new bridlepath to explore, which also cemented my feelings regarding Ursula’s saddle change.  

The Super Corsa was an inspired move and as these outings confirmed, surprisingly agreeable sans asphalt, too. I was pleasantly surprised to discover tarmac hadn’t turned to treacle (although some farm vehicles had left their calling card). Even at these times, the temperature was rising fast-from 11 to 19 degrees within an hour, 19 and 26 degrees, on subsequent mornings. Tarmac’s top layer begins to assume a softer state at 51 degrees but allowing for other factors, possible when the air temperature hits 25 degrees.   

Acceleration brought surprisingly cool, moist breeze, which was welcome and encouraged a faster than usual tempo. The Kask Protone Icon helmet also came into its own, rushing cooling air through my scalp. However, an oppressive heat was certainly promising. A muntjac deer pulled alongside, barking in a crude challenge, so we hustled along, rivaling each other for half a mile, before it exited right, into the undergrowth. 

Depending on mood and conditions, I generally alternate between Ursula and fixed gear winter/trainer.  I tweaked the latter’s chain tension while checking the tyre pressures and this ultimately resulted in a switch to the Halo White Line Classic & Shutter Precision PD8 HALO CLASSIC RIM & SHUTTER PRECISION DYNOHUB DISC WHEEL BUILD (sevendaycyclist.com). This also coincided with the security skewer’s implosion. I was torquing it to 10nms, when it sheared. Thankfully, I had a lightweight Halo skewer, so just switched.   

I’d recently switched the fixed’s stem, returning to the Kinekt which employs a very progressive spring/elastomer configuration. However, as I recall from testing, even with the stiffest spring, there’s too much travel for my tastes, resulting in a disconcerting knocking on the rebound.

A quick email to Evan at Cirrus cycles KINEKT Active Suspension Seatpost and Stem – KINEKT Store (cirruscycles.com) advised they’d produced a stiffer, aftermarket option and were happy to send me one. I didn’t need a second invitation. I also wanted to avoid delays, given the potential customs nightmare, which is looming in October.  

What are you spaffing about, Stenning? Well, on the present trajectory, the old CHIEF system is due to be decommissioned at September’s close, replaced by a CDS system, which appears to have been rushed and full of bugs. At present, pretty much everything is being waved through (hence goods are arriving quicker) and ample potential for smuggling.  

August onwards is the most active point of trading, whereas it bottoms out, come January. The other question is whether traders believe the new system will be rolled out and will migrate accordingly. This also affects imports I.e., goods coming into the UK. Shortages of produce and materials, including foodstuffs, will mean higher prices and grave consequences for many.    

Ending on a happier note, Carbon Cycles has graciously agreed to send me a carbon fork (aluminium alloy steerer) for testing. It’s designed for 26-inch MTB, which is in theory, an excellent candidate for older mountain bikes reinvented as gravel builds and/or those looking to trim the fat. At 918g (uncut) it’s a good bit lighter than the otherwise loveable 4130 “school chair” Cro-Moly pair, resurrected with the disc brake upgrade and will serve as default spares.  

Carbon Cycles set a suggested rider weight limit of 97.5 kilos (215lbs), so no problems there. I will be putting some Helicopter tape around the legs (Zefal Skin Armor Roll ZEFAL SKIN ARMOR ROLL | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com)  is a firm favourite of mine) to protect against cable tie bite and cable rub. Otherwise, no modifications, and I will continue to employ the Gusset Unilock, since it offers more security than the humble Star Fangled Nut.  Right, I'll leave you with my review of the Momum MIC Dry Momum Mic Dry Oil Lube | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com)  

 

Curly Carbon Bars & bust Butyl

With Co-editor, Steve enjoying a short tour of Belgium, I've been busily harvesting kit, while weaving rest and play into the mix. I also fitted these Coefficient The Wave Handlebars, to my Holdsworth. 

Described as "The Ultimate Road, Gravel & Endurance Handlebar"; its a curly carbon fibre design. One that bears passing resemblance to Genetic D-Riser 16 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/genetic-d-riser-bars and to a lesser extent, Soma Condor 2 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma-condor-2-shallow-drop-bars

In common with these aluminium alloy models, the wave is reckoned an ergonomic design for riders seeking "The speed of drops, and the long ride comfort of the bar tops". Apparently, the sloping top section provides a hand position mimicking the wrist's natural alignment.  

A slight, 1.5 degree flare reputedly offers a more solid stance, meaning you can remain on the drops for longer, even off road. The grip diameter varies proportionately, to reflect different hand sizes  

Some traditional drop features remain, including 77mm reach and 120mm drop. I've gone for the 44cm, which would seem the best fit, given I'm broader across the shoulders than my height and build would otherwise imply. 

Fully compatible with Di2, there's the option of routing brake and gear cables internally. However, they can be run and taped beneath the bars, as I have here. I've reused the Holdsworth's silicone bar wrap, which also compliments the bars' matt black finish rather well. 

Some folks might be tempted to bolt tri bars atop. Don't! To some extent this would detract from pattern's unique selling points but more importantly, doing so runs the very real risk of potentially fatal, structural damage. Since we're here, maximum recommended torque settings are 6nms. 

Forgo torque wrench at your peril. 

My maiden voyage confirmed I needed to move the bike's Tektro brake lever down a few centimetres but some 220 miles in, I'm suitably smitten. There's sensible scope for torch type lights, computers and similar creature comforts, too.

Given carbon composites should be more readily inspected for signs of fatigue, a naturally grippy, reusable wrap, such as this ACROS Silicone Wrap Handlebar Tape https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/acros-silicone-wrap-handlebar-tape  is an obvious choice. Its also rather nice, in its own right.  

Low weight and wow factor are two obvious draws to carbon but while I wouldn't entertain touring on a carbon frameset (even with a YAK type trailer trundling behind) its nice for other genres of endurance riding. 

Compliance reduces fatigue, especially on longer rides. Said bar swap has shaved 130g but has introduced a more compliant feel to the Holdsworth's front end. On paper, it shouldn't feel that way, given the 531 tubes and carbon composite blades but large flange hubs and relatively deep section rims give a brisk, though slightly direct ride. 

The Coefficient Wave are springy, compared with the otherwise loveable Soma and its quite noticable (though not unpleasant or unsettling) when powering along a climb, from a junction etc. 

Carbon fibre is also very conductive, so when it comes to frames, remember to grease the aluminium alloy bottom bracket sleeve liberally, using an appropriate prep. Assuming of course, you wanted to avert galvanic seizures. White Lightning Crystal High Performance Grease https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/white-lightning-crystal-grease or Muc Off Bio Grease (which could easily pass for strawberry jam) https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/muc-off-bio-grease-long-term-test seem effective.

Contrary to popular misconception, carbon composite frames are repairable, even when seemingly beyond redemption. That said; this is only economically viable, on high-end, rather than budget variants. They can also be refinished using 2k automotive paints and either air, or flash cured at 120 degrees. Had a mishap? Have a word with Carbon Fibre Repair in Leatherhead, Surrey. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/a-visit-to-carbon-fibre-bike-repair 

Summer jerseys have become not only lighter, but longer and er, tighter, I mean figure hugging. Thus far, I've only felt the benefits in terms of improved temperature regulation, and indeed, reduced drag. I've only been able to measure this anecdotally (being bereft of wind tunnel facilities) but there's markedly less flutter when hustling along breezy backroads, and screaming along the descents. 

Even with the zipper drawn to half-mast, for additional, physical airflow. This thinner, second skin close genre aren't the most accepting of Lycra arm warmers, base layers etc, which may be a turn off for early spring and Autumn duties. However, they translate well to indoor trainer slavery, I mean service, during the darker months.    

Talking of which, I've also been doing some long, steady night miles with the Ravemen PR1200 USB Rechargeable Dual Lens Front Light https://www.facebook.com/sevenday.cyclist/videos/pcb.2109616222667497/2109613026001150/?type=3&theater  We're also awaiting some rather nice Trelock lights. I'm keen to test another, higher power front dynamo lamp, for my fixed gear winter/trainer (100 lux upwards). 

That said;  I'm not overly keen on the German beam pattern as dictated by their StVZO/TA standards.Yes, there's no doubt it provides enough punch in the seen-by sense. However, on UK roads (Especially unlit ones) its less effective than my beloved Exposure MK1 Revo and indeed, high power rechargeable systems.. 

With Parliament (and some would argue, democracy) in meltdown, the late summer heatwave returned. What better opportunity to get some serious miles on the Holdsworth... 

While fitting those new bars, I nipped the chain tension up a notch, ressurecting these MKS chain tugs, while I was about it. 

Topped up  the Zefal Extra Dry Premium Quality Chain Wax https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-extra-dry-chain-wax  which returned 120 miles, before ultimately stripping with  Naked Bikes Chain Cleaner https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/naked-bikes 

I've since switched to  Rock n' roll Gold LV. Despite some wet spells, the moderate helping delivered to my other chains, is still going very strong after 250miles. 

So then, busted butyl. Well, while prepping my fixed gear winter trainer for a late night saunter and light test, the front wheel's presta valve literally disintegrated in my hand. 

Undeterred, I switched to the Halo Evua And Shutter Precision SL9 Dynohub Wheel https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/halo-evura-shutter-precision-sl9-dy, whacked some wind in the Soma Shikoro tyre https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/s, and replaced the other tube, on my return. The old tube lives on, as a brace for my Nicotina plants, whicxh are doing rather well, all things considered...

Trailer & Transmission Fettling

Well, I've made time to strip the TW Bents Yak homage trailer, ready for some modifying and makeover magic. Disassembly was remarkably straightforward. Once I 'd worked out how the press fitted bushing/bearings were instated. 

I prefer the single wheel designs, since they track with the bike's movement but all systems have their pros, and indeed cons. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/tug-jobs 

It was a welcome surprise to discover they'd been treated to some plastic-friendly grease, which assisted their, undamaged extraction. Only modest amounts of controlled force and primal grunting ensued.

Formative discussions with Maldon Shot Blasting & Powder Coating erred toward a chrome effect swing arm, top rail and either a buttermilk (Interpon 610) or  gloss black base/frame. The chrome effect providing some reflective safety, the gloss black timeless, and easy to touch up, as required.  

However, I've since decided that chrome throughout, is the best option.

Keeps things uniform and is arguably the most efficient use of time and other resources.  

Chris was doing some more wet spray work, this time on what appears to be an old De Rosa, and this carbon fork, which will be matt blue, once the lacquer is applied. 

Seems  good quality. mass-produced (26 inch mtb) forks are now rarer than hen's teeth. Given my Univega's design brief, Carbon's a non-starter. A bespoke steel set, was another option. Disc and canti, mudguard and front rack mounts... 

However, while I'm a firm believer in paying skilled people appropriately, there had to be another option. Especially since I was only looking to save a few grams...Lo and behold!  

While rummaging through my spares stash, seeking inspiration, I rediscovered it's original pair. 

The original flamboyant red enamel was showing some cosmetic damage. 

Otherwise, not rot or other nastiness. Crown race liberated, Graham has kindly agreed to blast and refinish them, in gloss black powder coat. Note to self. Mus remind them to soak in methyl chloride tank, as they've been Waxoyled.  Be interesting to see, if  these also sport a nickel plated layer beneath the paint... https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/after-the-gritters-went-home 

Too much Mad Max, at an impressionable age, perhaps but  I have a quiet appreciation of matt black, and indeed other, slightly distressed effects. Nonetheless, gloss and satins rule my roost. 

A curious rattle, experienced when traversing washboard tarmac suggested my fixed gear winter/trainer's chain needed tensioning again. Closer inspection revealed it was the Halo Fix G Track hub's https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/halo-fixed cassette style lockring. I was surprised by just how loose it was. Note to self! Check more frequently! 

Wheel out, tool in, 40nm torque-sorted. Presented the ideal opportunity to instate the threaded side's cover, along with a light lick of grease. Keeps things looking sleek, and sheltered from grot. I also decided to swap to a Sram chain, since I was about it. 

Nothing wrong with the Passport Elements Single Speed Chain https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/passport-elements-single-speed-chai  whatsoever. However, my long term experience suggests it's best for single-speed and hub geared, rather than fixed builds forgoing a rear brake. Especially, if you live/ride in hillier regions.  For many, simplicity is fixed's main draw. 

However, its important to remember the stresses placed upon a fixed setup, doesn't permit sloppy maintenance. For me cheap chain, hubs and sprockets are false economy. I'd still be inclined towards a 1/8th chain- even on 3/32 sprockets.

Despite the persistent, showery conditions I'm still running the Zefal Pro-Dry Chain Lube. Love the low friction, serene swoosh and indeed, its penetrant qualities. It literally seeps into the chain's inner sanctum, which made removing the joining pins, a breeze. 

Not quite so clean-at least compared with long cure, barely there ceramics, including Weldtite TF2 Ultra Dry Chain Wax https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/weldtite-tf2-ultra-dry-chain-wax ; or indeed Rock n' Roll Absolute Dry Chain Lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/rock-n-roll-absolute-dry-chain-lubr 

The SRAM does seem a bit meatier, although I'll keep the Passport. According to my digital gauge, it's only a quarter worn, and could still come in handy... Muc-Off sent us some interesting samples of their lubes and polishes, this week. Well, keeps me out of mischief....