Trailing Behind but Following the Plot

 

No, I’ve not taken the recumbent trike route, I’m referring to my mighty Bob Yak homage. I acquired mine in 2008 and ultimately sold my genuine Yak in 2009. Main reason being I preferred the homage’s hitch mount, which seemed more secure and less faffy than the Yak’s. The homage's grey finish wasn't bad by factory standards, but the boys at Maldon Shot Blasting & Powder Coating blasted and treated it to a chrome effect powder coat makeover back in 2019.

Single-wheel designs with swing arms track very nicely, so impact upon handling is minimal-although don’t forget its there-especially if you’re navigating rush hour town centre traffic.

Both designs employ bargain basement, but serviceable wheels. Replacing the OEM knobbly tyre for something better quality and road-centric also makes a huge difference in terms of handling and rolling resistance.

I also needed to check the pattern skewer purchased a few months back was a precise fit. Spoiler alert, it was. Much to my relief, the trailer’s spring mechanism mated perfectly. Patterns have improved considerably- cleats being prime examples. However, they can still prove a lottery in the “fit where they touch” sense.  Ursula usually does the tugging duties and handsomely. However, Denise is a little sprightlier and aside from testing the pattern skewer, I was keen to see whether my theoretically optimal gearing held up in practice.

55psi all round, everything securely attached, I headed out in search of some dung- I’d spotted bags of the garden elixir dotting the roadsides at various points on earlier rides. Didn’t want to make a special trip, rather combine collection with a longer meander. Big ring and middle of the 11-25 block provided sufficient torque for 17mph cruising and save for some additional weight and the odd bounce when crossing battle-scarred tarmac, I wasn’t conscious of the trailer. 

I should also point out that I’d applied some Juice Lubes Slick Juice to the swing arm bearings and also took this opportunity to apply some Zefal Pro ii Grease Zefal Pro II Grease | cycling-not-racing to the wheel’s quick-release skewer.  I was never keen on the mudguard-same applied to those fitted to Bob Yak’s, so removed it. I’m wondering whether a zip-tie “Arse Saver” type might be the way forward. I know there’s a couple in the spares boxes…

Huge bag of equine dung spotted, grabbed and carefully settled into the trailer; I about turned and set off along the lanes.  For the most part, the 36x26 and 11-28 block provide a decent amount of torque. However, a lower bottom gear-30-32 sprocket would be good insurance for the knees and longer ascents. I’d noted a couple of medium cage Tiagra Mechs, so indulged, since prices were favourable.

 Oh, that reminds me, a parking brake of some description is always a good bet when pulling over to stop. Scrap inner tube isn’t glamourous but easily carried and very effective.  A rubber O-ring mount-typically found on lights, computers etc is a more discreet option for engaging a brake and holding the plot steady.   

I’d been getting some decent miles in with the Leatt Trail 6.0 Clip In shoes and have been pleasantly surprised by their blend of power transfer, walkability and breathability. However, they are a little hefty. While comparing their soles with some others loosely of the trail genre, I decided it was time to compare and contrast, so switched to these FLR MXT Vibram Trail Shoes    FLR MXT Vibram Trail Shoes | cycling-not-racing .

These are a narrower design with slightly stiffer soles, which translates as improved power transfer. Trail in this instance is closer to gravel and rough stuff touring rather than mountain biking ( That said; I’ve used them to good effect in the latter context). Continuing this narrative, the soles perform equally well on narrower pedal platforms, such as these Shimano XTShimano Deore XT PD-M8100 Pedals | cycling-not-racing  and Wellgo MO94B WELLGO MO94B SPD PEDALS | cycling-not-racing  and Leatt’s Endurance 6.0 Clip In Pedals Leatt Endurance 6.0 Clip in Pedals | cycling-not-racing.

The Leatt and similarly broad models with more compliant soles are arguably the best union with designs such as this M530 and PED ED500 Shimano PD ED 500 Pedals | cycling-not-racing  . Temperatures in the mid-thirties lead me to conclude the Leatt Trail 6.0 have an edge on the breathability and comfort front, but I’ve never felt unduly toasty in either. No hot-spots or similar discomfort, for that matter.

Elsewhere, I was surprised to discover that the Cyclo Advanced Tyre Removal Tool has ceased production. Definitely one of my favourites and all the more disappointing since I’ve lost the head on mine. However, Weldite had one doing something close to nothing, so graciously sent one my way. Just as well, since I found the Nutrak Swift Frenzy impossible to fit with traditional levers. By contrast, the Cyclo steamrollered them aboard effortlessly.

I’m running Specialized’s Crossroads EX at the rear as a control for now and will go this route for 150 miles or so. At 683g, they’re slightly lighter than the 2.25 section CST patrol but rolling resistance, especially on metalled road is palpably lower.  The tread pattern is very gravel-specific and reminiscent of WTB Nano TCS  WTB Nano TCS Tyre | cycling-not-racing, so it’ll be interesting to see how they cope across the board, particularly in muddy conditions...

 

 

  

Self Containment

 The present state of siege is presenting opportunities and threats in equal measure. Social distancing has been an ideal opportunity to get out and test kit, fettle the fleet’s specification and forward plan. I’ve been startled by the Pro Gold chain lube’s friction busting prowess.  

Even allowing for the new chain, the transmission and shifting feels that bit snappier. A notch better than the otherwise likeable Zefal Pro Dry lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-pro-dry-lube and marginally cleaner, thus far. Then again, its nearly twice the Zefal’s ticket price, so I’d hope so. 

Little surprise to learn the bond between my posterior and the Cycles Berthoud Soulor Saddle continues to grow. I’m still feeding the hide every few rides to accelerate perfection and there’s a definite patina forming, so all good.  

A puncture (traced to a faulty valve stem) coupled with sunnier, drier conditions prompted a switch to my fixed. The Sugru Mouldable Glue Original Formula https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/sugru-mouldable-glue-original-formu appears to have solved the Tom Tom Bandit’s wibbly bracket and I’m enjoying the Soma Condor 2 again https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma-condor-2-shallow-drop-bars   

Now the weather’s more spring-like, I’ve reinstated the Apeman A80 Action camera https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/apeman to the Univega’s bars. The switching of my fixed gear winter/trainer’s Titanium Torus post, back to the very likeable Genetic Syngenic Seatpost https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/genetic-syngenic-seatpost may raise a few eyebrows.  I’ve also reverted to the Spa Cycles Aire titanium saddle- it was already in situ, so why not? It’d long assumed my shape-bliss! 

However, look closely and you’ll note the Torus has a relatively pronounced layback. The Genetic is nigh on inline. The most obvious benefit of an inline model is it brings the rider in line with the bottom bracket and theoretically improves power transfer.  

It also brings me closer to the bars. The Torus’ layback also made fitting/removal of the Carradice Carradry SQR bag https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/carradice-carradry awkward, which the switch has also solved. This also presented an opportunity to put the Juice Lubes Bearing Grease through its paces. After all, if it's designed to keep bearings smooth and happy, so should last a good while on contact points.  

Ah, but then it’s also lithium-based, which can conspire with the elements, creating the chemical reaction more commonly known as a galvanic seizure. Suffice to say I will be keeping a very close eye on things. Lithium-based preps will also scoff seals and other rubberised components.   

  

When it comes to greases, we tend to test on a mid-long-term basis. This allows us to make a proper evaluation of its staying prowess, reactions to changing environments and riding contexts etc. 

Talking of contact points, here’s our clipless pedal overview https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/stepping-in-a-guide-to-going-cliple  

While social distancing is paramount, some human contact is unavoidable. Last Friday, while my helpful local garage was sorting the KA’s puncture, Maldon Shot Blasting & Powder Coating rescued the slightly scabby spare wheel holder.   

Though generally solid, upon blasting, we discovered the salt monster had been nibbling, resulting in some pitting and a small hole. Little surprise, given it was the original, thus 13 years old.  

However, we decided it wasn’t a structural weakness, so no call for plug welding. Besides, I’d come to them unannounced with a “could you blast and fit in” request.   

The thick zinc-rich epoxy primer and polyester colour coat would lock the elements, and further corrosion out. 

A big thank you to Graham, Chris and the team at Maldon Shot Blasting & Powder Coating for their kindness, can-do approach and exemplary standards. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/aluminium-frame-refurbishment 

https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/after-the-gritters-went-home 

https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/two-tone-frame-makeover 

Ironing out the imperfections

Third time lucky, they say. Bribed with biscuits, Maldon Shot Blasting & Powder Coating https://ctc-powder-coating.co.uk/ kindly slotted in my beloved "ironing board", and the Univega's original forks. 

Ironing board??? Well, that's Carl, their shot blaster's affectionate nickname, for my beloved Bob Yak homage. One I reckon's rather fitting. Anyhow, like most of my refurbs, there were a few surprises along the way. 

First; the forks. These were chased through with industrial alcohol, to remove any frame preserve. Otherwise (this goes for anything oily, especially OIF motorcycle frames) it will turn molten during the curing phases, ruining the new finish and potentially scalding the sprayer. Not cool.  

Graham then whipped them over to the chilled iron grit cabinet. This media, is extremely effective and more durable, than others. However, for flawless results, he gave them a final tidying, using glass bead. Unlike the frame, there wasn't a nickle plated layer, beneath the flamboyant red enamel. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/after-the-gritters-went-home   

Nonetheless, brazing and TIG work was to the stereotypically clean, uniform Taiwanese standard.  

By contrast, the trailer was submerged in the methyl chloride tank, for twenty minutes. Much as we'd anticipate, the unsealed 2K factory finish began to lift, and was coming away in grey ribbons. This revealed a phosphate rich primer, which I wasn't expecting, given the budget, yet serviceable top coat. 

From here, it went to their main blasting cabinet. One that has echos of Leatherface's cutting room, in Texas Chainsaw Massacre. After performing some remedial surgery on "the pot"; Carl stripped the remaining mulchy mess using cast iron grit. Blasting, regardless of media, provides the lightly dimpled key, for primer and subsequent coats. 

This also reveals the item's true structural integrity. I recommend asking your finisher to give you a call, once they've blasted the frame (or other item). At this point, any remedial works (and their cost implications) can be discussed and, where appropriate, commissioned. 

So, with the fork given its zinc rich, epoxy primer, I had toyed with the idea of having the trailer's swing arm finished in gloss black and the trailer (sorry, ironing board) chrome silver. However, this would be adding mischief to the mix, for no good reason. 

This still received the epoxy base coat, oven cured at 150 degrees, for 15 minutes. The faint tackiness encourages better adhesion, of the colour and clear coats. Chrome silver was then applied, and returned to the curing oven for a further fifteen minutes. 

Graham advised me against touching the colour finish, since this requires an acrylic lacquer. Oils from the skin, however slight, can cause oily patches to bleed through. 

Curiously, there was no call for lacquering the forks, since the gloss black was described as particularly hardy. Besides a small fracture in the clear coat's surface (caused by a quick release "bite mark") could result in blistering and in turn, unsightly peeling.  

Given their attention to detail, and exemplary standards of workmanship, I wasn't remotely surprised (although still delighted) by the impeccable results. Rebuilding took longer than first envisaged. Thankfully I always take photos, of disassembly. 

However, I forgot to take my own advice, when it came to two plastic sleeves. These were hidden deep within the swing arm. More by luck than judgement, I managed to reinstate them correctly, first time. 

Aside from blowing some Green Oil Eco spray lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/green-oil-eco-spray-lube inside the chassis, I applied liberal slatherings of Pure Bike Grease https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/pure-bike-grease to the swing arm's plastic bushing cum bearings, which will hopefully protect and lubricate.  

Despite thorough masking, some residual specs of powder can sneak in, thus the hitch assembly required a bit of bedding in, and a shot of Green Oil ECo-Spray lube before they'd connect and release smoothly. 

Bob Elliot & Co LTD https://www.bob-elliot.co.uk/ have sent us some lovely Ravemen and Smart lights, so you'll excuse me. Time to pop them on charge, and go out to play.