Drivetrain Dramas & Rubbery Delights

 One thing led to another-we know how those sessions go. A chance inspection of Ursula’s chain revealed not one, but several crumbling links, which would explain some jumping at certain points along the cassette. Not the time I’d expected to replace it, but I decided this was the safest option, relegating the existing part-worn KMC to salvage/spares duties-into the SQR tour (via a resealable bag), it went.  

Now a skipping chain can be down to several things. Could be a stiff/damaged link, a worn cassette/sprocket, a kinked, or similarly worn cable, or a bent derailleur/hanger. I had recently replaced the inner and outer wire, we hadn’t been in a spill, so not a hanger issue.    

The Velo Orange Rubbery Bar tape is certainly making a positive impression.   

 

Reminiscent of the Lizard Skins DSP in terms of texture, it’s 3.5mm thick, yet weighs 147g (including plugs) and is markedly easier than most to wrap. I was seriously impressed by the Control Tech’s overall performance, but it wasn’t very malleable, thus required patience and very firm pressure to fit. No such problems with the Velo Orange and even the rubbery finishing strips were decent quality.   

Length is suitably generous too, a good six feet, so I had plenty left after dressing the Soma Condor 2. I was almost tempted to dress the right-hand chain stay, to protect it against accidental chain slap. However, this was a solution looking for a problem. I figured it would come in handy later down the line, so it went to the appropriate spares box.  I also decided to mix things up by switching from the K-Lite Bike Packer UltraK LITE BIKEPACKER ULTRA DYNAMO LIGHT | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com), to the K-Lite Bike Packer Pro V2 K LITE BIKEPACKER PRO V2 FRONT LIGHT | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) 

I am pleased, dare I say relieved that the new seat collar and binder bolt appear to have cured the fixed gear winter/trainer’s post slippage issue. 

Glad I bought another spare collar and hanger, since the price was keen, and these small parts always fail at the least opportune moment. The System EX Security SkewersSYSTEM EX SECURITY SKEWERS | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) have also been a useful addition. Sure, they’re not going to offer any real defence against a tea leaf wielding a 5mm Allen key, but they hold a disc wheel very securely, prevent opportunist theft and practical jokers.  

Cleats are another small but significant part that lead tough lives and only court attention when their hardware seizes, or they don’t engage/release reliably. I discovered two spare Shimano sets in the small parts drawer, while I was rooting around for post hardware. Existing cleats are OK, but I may pension off come October, as precautionary, seasonal maintenance.    

I also unearthed this Tern Vizy light, while rooting contemplating switching Ursula’s K-Lite Bike Packe Ultra for the Bike Packer Pro V2 K LITE BIKEPACKER PRO V2 FRONT LIGHT | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) since I was in the mood for mixing things up a bit and maximising handlebar real-estate. The Vizy is an interesting concept light. It pumps out a maximum of 60 lumens and combines a rear light with a big red arc around the bike and rider.  

It lacks the outright presence of Magicshine See Me 200, (presently adorning my fixed gear winter/trainer’s right-hand seat stay) but still has some charm. I’ve chosen to post, rather than wishbone mount, since this seems to project the light’s arc most effectively, so for now, it stays.   

Peaty’s Link Lube wet continues to impress me with its staying prowess. I’m easily 500 miles in and there’s no call to top up the fixed’s KMC chain. Contaminant is moderate, although less than typical of wet types-wiping the side plates every week hasn’t been necessary to date, although the depths of November may say different.  I remain impressed with the Peaty's Speed Grease, too PEATY'S SPEED GREASE | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com) 

I was also searching for a VDO sensor, so I could pair the second M3.1 head unit and run it on Ursula. This proved truly elusive. However, a few days later, some Sigma goodies arrived for testing.   

The BC9.16 wireless computer is aimed at those riders seeking to improve fitness but without online connectivity. It has 11 functions- current speed, average speed, comparison of current/average speed, maximum speed, distance, total distance, ride time, total ride time, clock, calories and total calories burned. All I will need, save perhaps for a backlight.  I was suddenly struck by just how similar the mount and sensor were compared with the VDO M3, so I tried pairing the VDO head unit and sensor, without success but satisfied my curiosity. 

 

Then we have the German marques Blaze and Infinity Rear Lights. The Blaze promises visibility up to 500metres, daytime running modes and a “braking function”. The Infinity, promises 16hour run time, StVZO approval and claimed visibility to 500metres.  

Autumn is creeping ever closer.  With it, another sequence of shortages. The hospitality industry is not only struggling to find suitably qualified staff but supplies of beer and CO2 gas are also in increasingly short supply. This also bodes badly for welders/metal fabricators, since CO2 is a commonly used in shielding gas. Argon/CO2 being a blend I am particularly fond of.    

 

Cantering Along

Another 120 miles on my tubby tourer, pleased with the recent revisions, I decided it was time to dial in the Genetic CX cantilevers. There was a little too much lever travel, for my tastes. Thankfully, they’re much easier to hone, than the otherwise impressive IRD CAFAM2. Pull cable and straddle wires through a few mm, tweak balance screws-Result!

Switched to The Muc-Off Dry Lube, since opportunity presented. A freshly cleaned and lubricated chain always makes the drivetrain feel that bit fresher. However, 100 miles or so later, I'm increasingly forming the opinion that friction is lower than the Zefal Pro Dry Chain Lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-pro-dry-lube and Finish Line Dry lubes https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/finish-line-dry-bike-lube  which is going some.  

Shifting feels almost instantaneous, in both directions across the block, even under load. The pronounced lack of friction just encouraged me to increase my temp. I’ve also concluded gearing is bang on, for the riding contexts intended.

Admittedly, I could go slightly lower, for heavier trailer loads, but for time being I’ll leave be. Durability is another consideration (especially given the Muc-Off Dry Lube’s relatively long curing period).

However, I’ve gone past the 160-mile stage without any hint of waning. In common with some wax formulas, several days at 23-28 degrees, and its assumed that fluid consistency. Lubricant has seeped deep within the chain, and a filmy, residual layer is clinging to the cassette. It’s also quite tacky to touch, though transfer to fingers/clothing hasn’t proved overly problematic, thus far.

For some folks, the lube debate is binary i.e. if you’re riding in wet/changeable weather, stick to a wet formula. Dry, for arid, dusty conditions. However, given the UK’s notoriously changeable climate, I like something that can bridge the gap, resisting those unpredictable showery periods, without attracting a gungy beard. 

That said and testing aside; chances are you’ll find my chains running a stoical wet formula, such as Weldtite TF2 Extreme wet chain lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/weldtite-tf2-extreme-wet-chain-lubr  or, if I want to keep maintenance times down, something like SKS lube your chain, which locks the grot within the top layer. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/sks-lube-your-chain

This might look unsightly but is “embalming” the chain. Crap eventually flakes away in chunks, leaving only a layer of lubricant behind.  Here’s an overview to lubes, if you’re new to riding, or want to explore the best option(s), for you. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/blank-ao363

Elsewhere, I’m also warming to the Oxford Contour flow saddle. 120 mixed terrain miles in, the relatively narrow profile and sensibly proportioned padding density are proving a winner for my derriere. I was slightly surprised to discover the rails are a solid steel, which would probably explain the weight differential, compared with those sporting hollow Cro-moly. 

4130 is common at this price point too, and my preference.

Is it a deal breaker? Not necessarily, why bemoan a few grams, if the saddle fits your shape and goes unnoticed, in the most positive sense. Will give it another 250 miles before reaching a conclusive verdict, mind.

Those seeking a wallet friendly 6061 post, with classic lines might be interested in Steve’s review of the Genetic Heritage II sea tposthttps://www.sevendaycyclist.com/genetic-heritage-ii-seat-post  . Right, off to play with the Ravemen PR1200 USB Rechargeable Dual lens Front Light.

Lights & Spikes

Winter is fun, provided you prepare properly. No such thing as the wrong weather, provided you’ve the right kit. Dependable tyres, durable lubes, and decent lighting being three obvious bike specific requirements. 

Thanks to high quality li-on and li-polymer cells, run to charging ratios are very favourable these days.

However, complacency almost got the better of me. Over the past few weeks, I’ve really warmed to this Lightrider PHASE rear light, reckoned to pump out 50 lumens and go 36 hours between charges.

It did, or within a few minutes first time round. However, 20 odd hours through the second charge, the charge light began flashing and it promptly powered down…Eight miles from home.

Thankfully, I always run two bike mounted lights, with this Revolution COB rear LED on my helmet, ready for contingencies. Now, I’d been a little remiss with charging my Univega’s Moon Nebula, which I had been running in super frugal, slow flash.

This also began flashing its low charge indicator, but this and The Revolution’s 15 lumen flash, were enough to cruise the remaining eight miles home on. All were suckling from my mains chargers, before I’d popped the tubby tourer back in the workshop.

This is another reminder that AA/A fuelled units remain extremely relevant. While spare cells should always be carried, worse case scenario, they’re easily bought from supermarkets, convenience shops and petrol stations.

Staying with lights, this Oxford Products Ultratotrch 2K front light. Tipping the scales at 338g It’s a gram heavier than their Ugoe 2000 lumen headlight, which feeds from a 7.4volt, 6000mAh li-polymer, external battery https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/ugoe-2000  the 2K also retails at £99.99 and seems very well made. Inside the hard-anodized aluminium alloy casing we have three Cree XM-L2 LEDs, a 9000mAh lithium ion battery (which takes a full eight hours to charge).

I am pleased by the six modes, which staircasing power options, which start at a retina tickling 2000lumens, then downwards to 1500,1000, 500, 250 and 125lumens respectively. Some (me included) will be slightly disappointed to discover there’s no SOS, or flash mode, should reserves take a tumble, miles from home.

At the higher end, Oxford cites 2 hrs, 3 hours and 4 hours respectively, which bodes well for sustained speedwork through the sticks. However, whether optics rival firepower, in the useful, navigational sense, remains to be seen.

The machined aluminium handlebar mount makes a nice change, from the otherwise serviceable composites. It comes complete with an aluminium unit for 25.4 diameters.

Remove this, and theoretically it’ll bolt straight aboard oversized (31.8) bars. Rubber shims will be required for traditional road bars. I’ve had to raid the salvage box for something suitable, so it would accommodate these Soma Condor https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma

So, if you’re without pick a couple up from your friendly local bike shop and (assuming you haven’t bought from them, at least have the decency to buy them some biscuits, or contribute to their tea and cake fund.

Elsewhere, I’ve exhausted the helping of chainsaw oil, used to lubricate the Passport elements chain. So returned to Weldtite TF2 Extreme wet https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/weldtite-tf2-extreme-wet-chain-lubr , which has a very similar consistency.

The temperature has finally dropped, though not plunged, as sensationally predicted by the red top tabloid press. Clear skies have meant greasy, slightly slippery roads but nothing taxing the Schwalbe Marathon Mondial, yet. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/schwalbe-marathon-mondial-tyres

However, I can sense ice and more challenging weather coming in the coming weeks. Enter these Schwalbe Marathon Winter Plus. The winter, which I’ve used for several, icy and snowbound seasons are good but only have 120 spikes. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/schwalbe-winter-spiked-tyre

Fine for tackling icy backroads and moderate snowfall, at 17mph. However, last year’s so called “Beast from the East”; threatened to get the better of them. https://www.facebook.com/Sevendaycyclistmagazine/videos/1846747668689489/ We’re talking minor slides, with a bit of warning, nothing more serious/expensive, or indeed, undignified.  

The Schwalbe Marathon Winter plus have 200, which should elevate grip and control to a new level. Staying with temperature, conditions have called for liner gloves. While the Oxford Bright gloves (and several similar designs are fine to 3 degrees), when the mercury slides into minus figures, finger tips can get painfully chill.

A rummage through my gloves’ drawer, unearthed these BBB liners. Liner gloves are designed to slip inside and provide additional warmth, and, in some cases, they can also be worn on their own, during spring.

On your Marks, Get Set…Winter

Winter technically begins on the 21^st 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