Bicycle Aikido

 

During the long and sometimes very hot summer of 1987, I acquired a copy of Bicycling Magazine’s Bicycle Repair. The opening chapter discussed Bicycle Aikido, which though a gross oversimplification, basically meant working with, rather than against components. Working things out and using appropriate force. Knowing how to hold the bike and tools correctly, for best effect. If you feel resistance, back off, if it’s coming together nicely, go with the flow.

Obviously, things like torque wrenches are far more prevalent, affordable to most home mechanics, so reduce the likelihood of component damage. That is, if they’re used correctly and with similar mechanical sympathy. I thought I’d long since consigned my copy to charity shops, or similar outlet. I was pleasantly surprised to discover it nestling between some other cycling publications from that decade, including Richard Balantine’s.

Black and white photographs, straightforward instructions/guidance. So straightforward, it led thirteen-year-old me, armed only with a spoke key into a false sense of security. I successfully turned a very minor wibble into a wildly wandering wheel. Fast forward 39 years and I’d been doing a fair bit of dirt road exploration aboard Ursula-one that led to me discovering a rave at 1030 in the morning, not to mention a chance encounter with Spiderman.  By this point, I’d reached my conclusions regarding Topeak’s Handleloc system and fancied quicker passage across metalled roads, so switched to Denise.

On one particularly hot afternoon, I decided it would be prudent to apply some Juice Lubes Slick Juice to the USE seat post and Hollowtech II axle. Two easy little jobs-regular “while I think of it” greasing keeps things mobile and happy. I found one of the pinch bolts unexpectedly arthritic, so gave that a more generous lick of grease and snugged both to 13nm, rather than the maximum 14. Seatpost removed, I took the opportunity to blast some more corrosion inhibitor inside the seat tube. Given temperatures exceeded thirty degrees, this would flow beautifully around the frames’ inner sanctum and cure rapidly.

Though friction is palpably lower than traditional greases when spinning the cranks, I’m not sure whether the Slick Juice is neck and neck with Peaty’s Speed Grease PEATY'S SPEED GREASE | cycling-not-racing, but I’ll reserve judgement for now. Will be interesting to compare their staying prowess, too. For context, I’ve needed to replenish Peaty’s Speed Grease every six months, rather than the 9-12 typical of stout lithium-based formulas.

Personally, I find partial stripping and re-greasing more convenient than wholesale, annual tear downs. However, I prioritise a stodgy, hell n’ high water blend for headsets and contact points-at least on winter bikes, mountain bikes, tourers and others serving in more challenging conditions.

Following on from my comments about subtle stockpiling of consumables, someone waved a KMC Z1 EPT chain under my nose along with some replacement Shimano pattern cleats-both at very favourable prices, so I snapped them up.  Chances are the Z1 EPT will replace the fixed’s Z5 come November when conditions will be wintrier and the Z5 will be due its pension. Staying with chains a moment, I’m still very impressed that the All Mountain Style Miami Glide Chain Wax’s temperature stability, even when temperatures have been in the mid to high thirties.

No gooeyness, nor does it transfer readily to hands and a consistent 250- 280 miles per application is similarly impressive by wax standards (150-180 miles is more typical) in generally arid conditions and allowing for the odd showery interval. I’m hopeful these qualities will increase drivetrain life, longer term and am planning on defaulting to it until October, unless conditions dictate otherwise.  

Sometimes the best products are the ones we default to, simply because they perform well and let us enjoy the ride. I am privately something of an obsessive, I’m intrigued by how stuff works, performance gains, that sort of thing but they’re the last thing I’d want to discuss during a ride, save for a casual aside, café’ stop break etc.

Other people’s machines, the human element, the stories behind them etc, yes, but I wouldn’t want the duration of a ride, or conversation to be rooted in component choice, or technical specifications.  Much the same goes for motorcycles, photography, and anything else I’m involved with.

Some technical chat is absolutely fine and often very relevant but quickly becomes tedious if it's someone’s only line of curiosity, or conversation. Then again, I’ve never needed to be centre of attention, nor do I talk about myself, although I am consistently told that I am intriguing and maybe I like that air of mystery…I’ll close here with my review of the Topeak Pannier Drybag 16 Litre The Topeak Pannier Dry Bag 16 litre | cycling-not-racing  and Castelli  Ultimate Sun Protection UPF Jersey The Castelli Ultimate Sun Protection UPF | cycling-not-racing

 

 

 

 

Sweet Spots, Holy Grails & More Spuds

 

 Aside from reducing the chain tension very slightly before setting out, Muffin’s gearing is perfect for my needs.  Providing the desired additional torque on the climbs without my legs going into overdrive on the descents.

I also needed to tweak the headset bearings slightly, having detected some play when engaging the front brake. An easy, two-minute fix- slacken the pinch bolts, snug the pre-load a fraction, test by rocking back and forth with the front brake engaged, then snug the pinch bolts to 5nm.  Having been somewhat underwhelmed by the Gaciron Xiaoman 1000’s handlebar mount, I discovered that belonging to the Ravemen LR1600 Ravemen LR1600 Front Light | cycling-not-racing was compatible and popped that in situ for a few rides.

This proved a great union, but I subsequently replaced it with this auction site stem face special, meaning I could switch to the Xiaoman’s Go-Pro pattern under bar mount. Talking of lights, here’s my long-term test of the Zefal Supervision FL 1500 Front Light Zefal Supervision FL1500 front light | cycling-not-racing.  

 Modulation and feel from the Vevo V lever is smooth, progressive and basically I'd had everything dialled in to my taste. Well, it gave rise to some further tweaks. I’d added some off cuts of Cinelli Cork Wrap to the Genetic Neuron GENETIC NEURON ACCESSORY BAR | cycling-not-racing since I had some left and it was neater than the scraps of old butyl. This was employed to prevent slight, very gradual movement of the K-Lite Ultra Low Drag Dynamo Light K-LITE ULTRA LOW DRAG DYNAMO LIGHT | cycling-not-racing

Formative impressions of the Genetic Hi-Grip bar tape are similarly favourable, although the finishing strips have been creeping undone and will likely be substituted for decent quality electrical tape.  Having amassed some proper miles with Muffin's new bars and levers, I've concluded the switch was definitely inspired.

The shallower drop allows me to spend more time hunkered low, rather than cruising on the hoods (which is also a very comfortable stance). 44cm width continues this narrative, although tis came as a slightly greater surprise, given I default to 46cm. Being a tarmac-biased build, aerodynamics are subtly improved and I don't require the same degree of leverage beneficial on a gravel or drop bar mountain bike. 

Fairweather conditions put much less strain on components, so I switched Muffin to its other dynohub wheel, shod with the 42mm section Maxxis Roamer TESTED: MAXXIS ROAMER TYRES for some additional speed and compliance. There’s only 80g separating the Roamer and Vittoria Adventure Tech.

Both are cheap but crucially very cheerful. The Vittoria Adventure Tech are available in 700x 38, 35 and 32mm sections features a beefy 5mm puncture repelling belt, which inspires confidence during the darker months, and ride quality is better than 33tpi casings would suggest. Wear has been nominal too, continuing the stout narrative, meaning they’re a good choice for commuting and weekend touring.

The Roamer employs a Kevlar breaker strip along the centre. Consequently, puncture resistance is good, rather than great, which is why they’re my fair-weather choice. Again, there’s scope for exploring light, hardpack and lightweight, weekend touring but the Roamer’s 60tpi casings provide a more engaging, compliant ride.  

There are some components that I may not use very frequently but will never part with. Design classics and sentiment being the obvious attachments. These Shimano SPD from 1990 being prime examples. I’d stripped and serviced last year and found the internals in remarkably good shape.

Back then, I repacked them with Juice Lubes Bearing Juice, which is a synthetic blend with a putty-like consistency intended specifically for bearings.  I’ve used it to particularly good effect in hubs and headsets. Opening the mighty first-generation Spuds revealed a decent amount clinging to the bearings and axles. Simple Pedal Overhaul | cycling-not-racing

However, since I’d come this far, I decided I’d give them a deep clean using Motoverde Drivetrain Cleaner Motoverde Drivetrain Cleaner | cycling-not-racing before repacking them with Zefal Pro II Grease Zefal Pro II Grease | cycling-not-racing  . Pedals are nice things to work on, since you can sit at a bench and methodically clean, inspect, adjust and replace bearings etc as required.

There are a few schools of thought when it comes to clipless and fixed gear. I've used everything from the old "Lego-type" Look, through to Time ATAC, although have typically stuck with dual sided Shimano and Welgo, since they're inexpensive and very straightforward to service.

Single sided road designs, such as these Wellgo and indeed, Shimano Ultegra are quite pleasant and when packed with stiff grease, tend to align upright, ready for easy entry, say at the lights. Fine, if you're doing long, steady miles, or racing TTs, but lack a dual sided model's convenience-especially in stop-go traffic.

I've also run nickel-plated Exustar pedals- Look (Keo) pattern one side, SPD the other. Designed primarily for spinning/similar duties, they meant I never let the house with the "wrong" shoes, so an obvious choice for a trainer, or daily driver. However, there's some trade-off weight-wise given the steel, rather than alloy bodies.

They resisted corrosion pretty well too-waxed periodically, coupled with shots of maintenance spray to the mechanisms, which also gave the bodies a light, protective coating. Wellgo MO94B WELLGO MO94B SPD PEDALS | cycling-not-racing have proven very solid alternative to Shimano M520 thanks to the rugged silver finish and buttery smooth cartridge bearings. 

The WPD 823 are cheaper still and a good budget alternative-£30 but I've seen the version with loose ball bearings for £15 including cleats-new. Access to the bearings is via a simple press fit cover, which is convenient. These were a little squeaky, the grease looking closer to recycled chip fat. Subsequently, I’ve packed them with Peaty’s Speed Grease PEATY'S SPEED GREASE | cycling-not-racing

Minority Report (Pain in the Arse)

 

I have always been something of a minority and that doesn’t overly bother me, in any respect. Despite the very welcome resurgence in popularity, cycling remains a minority or less mainstream activity here in the UK.  

The same goes for several interests and passions I hold dear. I’ve touched on this and my introversion before. In commercial (and indeed other social contexts) I am perfectly capable. Borderline loquacious, given the right variables. However, I deftly swerve introspection and beyond the quality of my work, feel no need to seek attention.  

Provided I’ve done nothing to elicit a negative experience, I care little about whether people like me or not. Something I find very empowering and I’m very selective about those I allow beyond my veneer. Those who genuinely know me, describe me as a unique person, an acquired taste. I’d much sooner this, than a two-dimensional cardboard cut-out.  

January can be a long, austere month. Long forgotten are December’s festivities and cosy glow, often replaced by dull skies, unexpected expenditure and longing. Distractions can also take hold. These are fine, so long as they don't detract from physical, mental or emotional energies that would be better employed elsewhere. This typically strikes me in the workshop. Left unchecked, experimentation with gearing and other component changes can develop lives of their own. I’ll just...Is an extremely dangerous thought. One that can see ideas rapidly assuming lives of their own.  

Yes, winter can be a pain in the arse... 

Having ruled out saddle misalignments and similar issues, I am doing some trial-and-error miles with fresh longs and pads. My hypothesis is that some favourite bib tights and ¾ lengths are coming to the end of their service life, resulting in discomfort. 

  

While I felt able and had the grease out, I decided it was time to give my fixed gear winter/trainer a seriously good wash and perform the fork switch. I’ve stuck with the TRP Spyre SLC calliper for now since it was just a question of switching it over and the existing cable was fine. Annoyingly, unlike the basic Spyre, the SLC’s clamp seems more prone to fraying inner wires. Especially since I’ve always used a correctly calibrated torque wrench to snug everything down.  

Mercifully, the fork switch was plain sailing. I decided not to prune the steerer any shorter and simply added another 5mm spacer. I also gave the Stronglight headset bearings a clean and liberal helping of Juice Lubes Bearing Juice. This is closer to a putty than a traditional grease.  

Buttery smooth, friction is higher compared with preps like Park Tool Poly lube 1000 TESTED: PARK TOOL POLYLUBE 1000 LUBRICANT FOR BICYCLES (sevendaycyclist.com), not to mention, Peaty’s Speed Grease PEATY'S SPEED GREASE | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com). However, during the depths of winter, I’m more concerned with a grease’s ability to protect against water, ingress and corrosion.  

Closer inspection revealed some structural deterioration of the Kinesis fork. I whipped out the hacksaw and cut it up before I forgot about this and inadvertently passed it to a friend.  

Credit where it’s due, this took more effort than I was expecting. I’ve kept the crown and steerer, so it will live on as a drift for headset cups etc, since (a) waste not, want not (b) I believe my scrap piece of downtube met the skip during 2020’s pre-move, garage rationalisation.   

Since I was there, I switched to the Halo White Line/PD8 HALO CLASSIC RIM & SHUTTER PRECISION DYNOHUB DISC WHEEL BUILD (sevendaycyclist.com) wheel, with the CST Pika tyre, for aesthetic uniformity and improved clearance. I was surprised to discover the rim shod with a narrow, 559 (mtb) rim tape, not the 622 I’d expected to see. Testament to Schwalbe that it’s stretched so far without snapping or losing shape.  

The new fork is closer to a traditional cyclocross design, with slightly tighter clearances than the DC7 it replaces. 35mm tyres. If you’re prepared to ditch a front guard, 38 tops.  

Fixed gear winter/trainer freshly washed and waxed, it was time to pop it away and go for a formative shakedown ride the following morning. Unforgiving headwind aside, the fixed flew and everything felt exactly as it should, especially at the front end. Fate intervened in a positive sense, again. Talking of which, here’s my review of the Vecnum FreeQuence Suspension Stem https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/vecnum-freeqence-suspension-stem 

Roads and clear, starry skies to myself (save for the odd rabbit) I just sat back and cruised as fast as my legs could carry me- ejecting meaty chunks of phlegm as need presented. I am strong but vulnerable to chest infections, which linger painfully- long after the other markers of cold, or flu have passed. 

 

I am also very aware that old practices such as “running a cold out on the road” are potentially extremely dangerous. Certainly not something I’d advocate, but I do find that having recovered from a lurgi, riding is a great expectorant. Stubborn, residual nastiness that otherwise lingers and settles on my chest, shifts and is more readily expelled.  

Not something I’d want to subject others to, but fine on solo outings. Given the typically wet, mucky conditions, I was rather pleased Weldtite sent me this fabulous bundle of bike cleaning and protectant goodies, for testing. Oh, and here’s my review of the CST Pika Gravel Tyres CST Pika Gravel Tyres | cycling-not-racing (sevendaycyclist.com)