End of the Rack?

 Unless you’ve been living under a rock these past few years, you can’t help but notice the emergence of bike-packing, which swept in, alongside gravel and previously free road (an evolution of the cyclocross bike from 2008). These were characterised by Two or more sets of bottle, rack and mudguard mounts, so you could tour, commute and train on. Specialized’s Tri Cross was a very good example of this breed. 

There is a tendency for concepts to become dominant to the point of being the default, the only way of doing something. Back in the 80s/90s mountain bikes ruled supreme and I’d be the first to wax lyrical about a cross country mountain bike’s versatility. However, they’re not suited to all riding applications and every rider.

  

Now, bike packing luggage is designed to use the bike’s “empty spaces” and to some extent, turn the bike’s frame tubes into a giant rack. This also means you’re not limited by rack mounts or needing to add P-clips/similar, to run a 3/4point rack to attach panniers, top bags etc.  

Caveats about correct loading/weight distribution aside, decent bike packing luggage does not impair the bike’s handling, ort profile, say when tackling tight sections of trail/singletrack, which could also translate well to the urban jungle. However, certain configurations might be better for commuting.  

For example, a frame fit bag and something like this SQR Tour might be a more convenient setup than Bike packing seat packs. True, these are a good bit heavier (1390g. Compared with 450/500g) and you do need a decent amount of post exposed. However, the SQR Tour and Carradice Carradry remains my preferred option, when everything’s considered https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/carradice-carradry is more secure, laden with similar payloads.  

The quick-release system has a definite edge when it comes to convenience-removing them when locking up or heading home. The wide profile isn’t overly problematic when snaking through twisting forest trails, or indeed, lines of stationary traffic. I’m more conscious of the weight, when powering away from the lights, or winching along a climb.  

This also has a slight effect upon handling but not adversely so and something that didn’t take long to acclimatise to. Something like the Merida frame fit bag and the SQR Tour/Carradry, might be the perfect combination, with a small fuel tank bag riding on the top tube, or maybe a bar bag, such as this See Sense https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/see-sense-handlebar-bag if I was wanting to carry a little more within easy reach.  

No sooner had I thought this, Topeak’s UK importer sent me this 3 litre mid loader frame bag to play with.  Measuring 37.5 x 12 x 6 cm. The 3 litre is the smallest of the mid loader family-there are a 4.5 and a 6 litre siblings but my Univega’s 41cm frame means there’s little room in the main triangle.  Indeed, I may well need to switch the down tube cage around, or go for a Fidlock system.  

Apparently, the maximum payload is 6.5 kilos, which is impressive, especially given the 3 litre version weighs less than 197g. Staying with Topeak, courtesy of their Versamount, I’ve will also port the Apidura bolt on top tube bag to my Univega.  

Remember to wrap some clear “helicopter” tape or something similar, such as this Zefal Skin Armor Rollhttps://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-skin-armor-roll where the straps touch the frame, since some minor movement is inevitable, and this can leave unsightly “tan lines”/similar marks in the lacquer/paintwork, especially when wet mud/dirt and grit are involved.  

Obviously, the same applies to racks/pannier frames, where the luggage touches, although high quality electrical tape seems the best remedy. Doing so prevents premature and unsightly wear, which can also lead to corrosion and other problems. When all’s said and done, I like pack-packing luggage and its arguably the right solution for lightweight camping/touring.  

However, it’s not the only one, nor is it optimal for all conditions. A good quality rack and single 20 lite pannier can be a more practical, stable solution for commuting, or general riding where you want a rigid load-bearing system. One where the bag can detach and refit in seconds and carried conveniently, in one, to the office/destination.      

Given there’s no middle cable for the front mech, there’s sufficient room for the mount component, without it, or the bag fouling the brake and gear inner wires. The bag’s bolt on design also seems to eradicate any need for the Velcro stabiliser strap.  

I’ve slipped it inside the bag for safe keeping. About bars, here’s my long-term review of the Acros Silicone bar wrap handlebar tape https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/long-term-test-acros-silicone-bar-w       

Dark Skies & Dynamo Delights

Some very nice lighting has arrived for testing, including these 1300lumen Klite dynamo lamps. These are targeted at the Gravel/Bike packing and mtb market and built by hand, in Australia.  I've been sent the Bike Packer Ultra, which is beautifully made.  https://www.klite.com.au/product-page/klite-bikepacker-ultra

We've been given both the MTB and road versions. The mtb version has two flood and one spot, the road/gravel version one flood, two spot.  Apparently fully waterproof, everything oozes refinement. Aside from the Cree LEDs, SquareTECH optics and a 3D printed case, it can be mounted facing up, or down, without altering the beam pattern.  

The Mtb version is reckoned to negate any need for a helmet mounted light. I'll introduce that to the Univega in due course and disappear along the eeriest lanes and unmade roads. 

The Bike packer Pro V2, is probably the most apt for Audax, Randonees and similar road biased endurance events. 

Super compact dimensions are going to be a winner with riders who despise cluttered cockpits too. Oh and the  systems will cater for SON or Shimano/Shutter Precision dynohubs https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/halo-evura-shutter-precision-sl9-dy 

https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/halo-rim-and-shutter-dynohub-disc-b

In full blown " Child at Christmas" mode, at the moment, I calmed these impulses and examined the system carefully before introducing the road/gravel version to my fixed gear winter/trainer.  This had the added bonus of tidying  the  bars somewhat. 

Obviously, dynamos don't meet everyone's needs and no everyone needs this kind of  output. In terms of wallet-friendly, compact torch types,  we've been impressed by the RavemenLR500S

https://www.facebook.com/Sevendaycyclistmagazine/videos/384141872482792/?notif_id=1568633671050649&notif_t=notify_me_page and its CR500 cousin 

https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/ravemen-cr500-front-light 

Though I love dynamo lighting, and the concept of producing my own light, I've tended to run a single front lamp from hubs and battery powered blinkies at the rear. Much of this boils down to less cabling and marginally cleaner lines. 

This little ETC Mira rear light also arrived at my door. Using COB (chips on board) construction, where diodes are mounted directly on the boards, optimising available space and, in turn, offering a more intense light. The Mira is designed by Magic Shine, which comes as littler surprise, given it's a dead-ringer for their Seeme 20. 

The Mira boasts a maximum output of 20lumens and 9 modes. By my "rule of thumb" reckoning, 10lumens is fine for concrete jungle and suburban stretches, 15 for semi rural and 20 plus for unlit back roads. Initial impressions are favourable, although, thus far, I'm not convinced of its peripheral prowess. 

Another unit I'd be inclined to pair with a dome-shaped model, such as this Oxford Ultratorch  R50 Slimline Rear Light  https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/oxford-ultratorch-1, or indeed a AA/A type, which still have some distinct advantages. Specifically, replacement "dry" cells can be bought from roadside garages, supermarkets etc (assuming you'd forgotten to pack a stash). 

That said; some high power front lights including the Ravemen PR1200 
 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/ravemen-pr-1200-dual-lens-front-ligand this Knog PWR Lighthead 1000 are incorporating USB ports, specifically for charging lights, phones and other tech.

We can all get caught out, no matter how well organised, or maintained our machines. With this in mind, I was disappointed to spot an experienced rider completely unlit, pasty dusk.... 

Maybe he was having of of those Friday the 13ths. 

No knife wielding psychopaths wearing hockey masks, rather mine presented as sill rot, on my Ford KA. Seemed water had been tapped behind the door seal, causing it to nibble a 50 pence shaped hole in the inner. Thankfully, my friendly local garage performed a neat and easy fix-£65 all in.  

Back to bikes, the Holdsworth is still seeing plenty of asphalt action, and I've also switched that to Rock N' Roll Extreme LV chain lube, which is proving not only stoical, but surprisingly clean too. 

As the miles rack up, I'm forming the opinion that it might be one of the best lubes-the sort defaulted to, for year round, general riding. Middling curing times won't suit everyone but the ability to  just reapply without the cleansing ritual is a definite boon, especially during late Autumn/Winter.

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...