Tricks & Treats

Yes, I know Halloween was last week. I have an academic interest in the occult and indeed, film. However, I loathe the commercialised American "door knocking" import. One that has seen a recent resurgence in popularity. 

Despite the K-lIte Bike Packer Ultra's prowess https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/k-lite-bikepacker-ultra-dynamo-ligh (and wearing the Pro Viz  360+ jacket) there were a couple of close calls. Drivers pulling out, without looking, at junctions. I've been riding for 33 years, so nothing new, though never a pleasant experience. 

The K-Lite Bike Packer Pro V2 Front Dynamo Light continues to impress with its power to size ratio. There are some minor shortcomings, but none I'd consider deal-breakers, especially given the design brief.
Here's some footage and a couple of stills. Both were captured using my Tom Tom Bandit. The stills contain a little grain but no shake. The seemingly rare-as-hens' teeth remote would come in really handy.  I'll manage without, unless one presents, at the right price. 

The Knog Cobber Mid Rear Light https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/knog-cobber-mid-rear-light has proven a good, tune able option for general riding. Sufficient bang for the back roads, and as a daylight running option, yet sensible for town and group riding. Run times are similarly favourable.  

Rains have also returned, after some brief respite. Univega and fixed gear winter/trainer remain grubbier than usual. However, gives an opportunity to really see how durable the Naked Bikes Wax holds up, long term. Its worth noting that all waxes are slowly eroded by salts and other chemicals over time.

Washing with sudsy household detergents being the fastest way of stripping. For best results, stick to a gentler shampoo and rinse machines down using cold water first. Especially during winter, since hot will simply accelerate the caustic properties of road salts. Waxes, sturdier tyres, lubes and mudguards (fenders) all extend ride to maintenance ratios, but laziness comes at a price.  Remember to grease contact points and of course, those little fasteners that often get forgotten. 

Waterproof luggage is another good investment. My Carradice Carradry SQR bag https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/carradice-carradry is doing the business handsomely. Steve's also been suitably impressed with Zefal Z Adventure F10 bar bag https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-z-adventure-f10-bar-bag

 
The Zefal Pro Wet Chain lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/zefal-pro-wet-chain-lube has certainly clung on, longer than I was expecting, from a relatively inexpensive wet blend. 375 miles from a single application isn't to be sneezed at, given the rainfall we've had here, in the UK. 

First sign of the lube's demise was on the fixed. Wondered why my little legs were struggling to winch us up the climbs. I had a rummage through my lubes box and plucked out Weldtite TF2 all weather chain lubricant. Another middleweight wet formula. One reckoned to cope in extremes of temperature. 

No sooner had I done so, a huge box of goodies arrived, from Juice Lubes.  This included their ceramic. Surprisingly enough, its designed for dusty to damp conditions, rather than winter per se. 

I'm told the Ceramic is a "100% synthetic lubricant containing special additives. Boron nitride features but without getting overly technical, the compound's lubricant properties are similar to graphite. Curiously, its reckoned resistant to salts and other contaminants.  On the plus side, its very straightforward to apply, and curing time is measured in minutes, not hours. 

I've also set aside time to brew up a fresh batch of wax-based corrosion inhibitor. Not that the weather has let up long enough, for me to consider applying it to the KA's underside. Frames also have plenty sloshing aroundtheir inner sanctums.  Nonetheless, its on hand when I need it. Cheap as the proverbial portion of chips, too. 

The Continued Joy of Full-Length Guards & High-End Dynamos

Travers Bikes  https://www.traversbikes.com    have graciously sent me K-lite Bike Packer Pro V2. In common with its Backpacker Ultra cousins, https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/k-lite-bikepacker-ultra-dynamo-ligh  it produces 1300lumens and runs from the same switchgear. However, its considerably smaller and is housed in an orange, CNC machined aluminium shell.

Aesthetically, it complements the excellent Acros Silicone Wrap Handlebar Tape https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/acros-silicone-wrap-handlebar-tape . Beautifully executed, the less “industrial” flavour has more obvious appeal to clutter-phobic riders of posh winter/Audax or fast touring rigs. The “med” beam pattern is also designed to bridge both worlds.

Relentless, torrential rains have turned lanes into lakes and reminded me just how useful full-length chrome plastic guards are. Not only do they keep corrosive, silty grot from a bike’s intricate parts, extending service intervals and component life. They also defend the rider from surprising amounts of dodgy, cold-baiting water, too.

Little surprise that I’ve defaulted to the Univega. With my fixed gear winter/trainer sporting the Bike Packer Pro V2, I’ve switched to the K-lite Bike Packer Ultra Road/Gravel version, which delivers a more focused, asphalt specific beam. This also presented the ideal opportunity to tidy and reorganise my Tom Tom Bandit. Even allowing for full-length guards, several rides in, the old girl was filthy.

A break in the rain allowed a proper wash and thorough waxing. I’ve been testing Naked Bikes Pro Bike Wax for a few months now and am reaching some, definite conclusions. In common with Velo 21 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/velo-21  it’s blended to cater for gloss, satin and matt finishes. Only a light layer is required to deliver a lasting, protective barrier too, which means it should work out very economical, in the long run.

I’m also pleased to discover plenty of Zefal Pro Wet Lube clinging to the chain, with refreshingly little contaminant. Having run it through a changeable Spring/Summer, I was also surprised to note it’s assumed a markedly higher viscosity, with the pronounced drop in temperature. I am wondering whether this is positively impacting upon its staying prowess. I’d be disappointed if it didn’t cross the 300mile mark.

Obvious conditions for testing wet weather attire. I’ve not gone over to water repellent tights yet but these ten- year- old Lake booties have been plucked from seasonal hibernation and given a liberal helping of leather “food”. This will keep the hides nourished and protected from the elements.

The Prendas Cyclismo caps are also proving pretty good on the water resistant, yet breathable front. 90 minutes continuous, heavy rain, and they’ll be suitably soggy.

I’d sooner that, than drowning in my own sweat. In terms of breathability, when it’s been dry, the steady flow of air through my scalp is very palpable. Following a soaking, they’ve dried in around (1hr) at room temperature.  

Ultimately, no matter how generous your guards, or weather repellent your garments, the elements will ultimately make inroads. I like tights with water-repelling top layers and highly water repellent, rather than those with impervious TPU mid layers. I can also appreciate neoprene’s benefits, when wet and cold are relentless. However, the clamminess is a turn-off for me.

Another turn off, is riders who pass too close. Though thankfully quite rare, I’ve had a few groups who have insisted on riding within stroking difference of my bar wrap. I even had one rider, hanging off the back of his group, complaining that I had the audacity to run two rear lights!

This little ETC Mira 20 Lumen Rear Light being one of them. Admittedly, there’s plenty of punch but I had it in the medium flashing mode, and it can be seen from a good distance. However, peripheral prowess means it’s best as a contingency/secondary, rather than primary model.

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.... 

  

Remember Tomorrow

Widespread, seasonal resurfacing has turned local roads to gravel tracks. Perfect conditions for the Univega, and its Scwalbe Marathon Mondial tyres. Rubber designed for the demands of unmade roads and track, without feeling overly ponderous. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/schwalbe-marathon-mondial-tyres

Every so often, a rogue chipping will embed itself into the grooves, resulting in that faintly annoying, intermittent whirr, when you’ve reached smooth tarmac. However, I’ve appreciated their superior traction.

Full length chrome plastic guards are another boon in these contexts, protecting rider and paintwork from being shot-blasted by stray aggregate. Once these have been impacted by trucks, vans and similarly hefty vehicles, the roads will resemble a huge cat-litter tray.

At that point. I’ll switch back over to my fixed and 700x35c.  Meantime, these conditions have presented the ideal opportunity to reflect upon the build. Sheer mileage, in all conditions have meant a revolving door of components. Specifically, chains, cassettes, braking, cables, bearings.

Frame aside; only the front cable guide remains of the original build. Lighting and other accessories have evolved to meet need but ultimately, it has morphed into precisely the all-terrain machine I lusted (and day- dreamed over) during my school daze.

Arguably a custom build might be lighter, dare I say better and I occasionally toy with the idea of a titanium fork (At the right price) and even with the new 1x10 setup, there’s some very minor compromise. Nonetheless, compromises that can be eradicated with use.

A change of cassette-within 3,000 miles, front ring/both. Oh, and the new Microshift Centos setup is behaving impeccably, across the range. We’ve had some very wet spells recently, which has meant Steve’s been keeping these Oxford Bright 2.0 Overshoes close by. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/oxford-bright-2-0-overshoe , That said; I’ve opted for touring shoes and these Prendas Ciclismo Bordeaux-Paris Coolmax socks  https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/prendas-ciclismo-1

Wax type lubes have become much “stiffer”, so a more realistic option for more changeable conditions. Univega’s FSA chain dressed in the Zefal Extra Dry Premium Chain Wax, I managed forty-five miles along waterlogged roads, by which point, these had flushed the lubricant properties out, and the orange taint set in.

Interestingly, the Zefal is reckoned to cure, ride ready in an hour (4-8 is more typical in my experience). Potentially a practical choice for touring and commuting. Having dried the chain, I have since reintroduced three thin coats, leaving thirty minutes between each coat.

In common with other, low friction, super hygienic blends, such as Weldtite TF2 Ultra dry chain wax, it makes easy transition to Jockey wheels and other metal to metal interfaces. However, I don’t find wax, or emulsion types the best options for hesitant cleat/mechanisms.

This cured to a very rich, white state before turning a scuzzy black, within the first (predominantly dry) road miles. Once compounded with crap, it scabs away, leaving a protectant layer behind. Thus far, we’re only 65 miles in but this seems the way forward. 300 the number to beat https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/squirt-long-lasting-dry-chain-lube . Friction and cleanliness are pretty much what I’ve come to expect from this genre, so we’ll see.

 So, where does “Remember tomorrow” tie in with all this? I am referring to a song, from Iron Maiden’s first album. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RiWRHNXswQ  One that I acquired in 1990 (during the height of this bike lusting in class business.). I was sitting my GCSEs at the time and aside from all things two-wheeled, I was contemplating my life, love and the road to happiness-in a holistic sense.  

In some respects, it’s interesting to see where I have been, what I have done in the years since. 29 years hence, my son also finds himself at the close of his school career. Neither of us were “Star Students”, we certainly didn’t mirror the school’s definition.

Learning, attainment and development have always been held dear. However, school was not the right environment. I’m hoping he can plough through this final phase, secure his provisional college placements, and continue to expand his horizons. An end of an era too, for John & Jane’s Tandem Trike https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/love-resurrection-john-moss-s-tandem  After almost 40 years in their ownership, it’s found a new and hopefully, loving home. No, not with me. My elderly feline might move out in protest!

  

Command Centre

Having recovered from crank extracting efforts, I switched to my Univega and away from the increasingly maddening crowd. An ideal opportunity to see how well Squirt Chain Lube copes, in changeable conditions. This Apeman A80 Action camera had also arrived for testing. Initial impressions are favourable, relative to price point.

It seems intuitive to use, and image quality broadly comparable, with this Geonaute I’ve owned for a few years.  The Apeman A80 comes with a lot, as standard, including 2^nd battery, weatherproof casing and several mounting options. I’ve opted to fit ours via this nicely finished Minoura VC100 Quick Release Camera Mount. Works well with compact cameras and Go-Pro homages.

This Genetic Neuron Accessory Bar arrived and prompted some tidying of my fixed gear winter/trainer’s cockpit. The old resin accessory mount had served me well, but was slowly falling apart and ultimately, consuming unnecessary space.

I simply mounted the Trelock LS906 Bike-I PRIO Dynamo Front Light https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/trelock-ls906-dynamo-front-light  and bracket to the Soma Condor 2 bars https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma-condor-2-shallow-drop-bars , then ported “Frankenpute” and Xeccon Spear 900 front light https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/xeccon-spear-900-front-light  aboard the CNC machined Genetic. The 22.5mm bar is designed to accommodate computers/GPS and other “lightweight” accessories.

In real terms, it seems perfectly happy with a 200g payload. Standards of construction and detailing are impressive, especially for the money. CNC machining and anodised finish aside, it comes complete with aluminium spacers (rather than the crude, but generally effective rubber type), to achieve rock solid, scratch-free tenure to 26.0 bars.

Alas, my beloved Frankenpute, then decided it no longer wanted to live. Mysteriously ejecting itself from its mounting bracket, and beneath a following SUV. Sentimental soul I am, I retrieved what remained and was astonished to discover some functionality.

A few days later, this very simple, lollipop shaped Cat Eye Quick Computer arrived for review.  Professionally, I’m interested in the latest “Make the tea” technology but personally, lean towards simpler stuff.

The Quick is a five function, wireless model. We’re talking current, average and maximum speed, trip distance, total distance, total distance, moving time, and clock.

I’ve had plenty capable of scrutinising every scrap of ride data, and I understand how useful that can be. However, though I love riding, racing hasn’t been part of that diet some years.

So then, the Genetic Tibia Track Cranks. Well, any component change generally makes a bike feel different. Ours were the 165mm versions but there are 170 and 175mm alternatives.

These are arguably better suited to taller riders and/or road biased builds. With this in mind; my working fixed, originally sported 175mm SRAM cranks. Given the frame’s lofty bottom bracket, spirited cornering didn’t lead to “grounding” or similar fun-disruptive nastiness.

Some studies suggest moving to a shorter crank, can improve comfort. These cite reduced scope of motion at the knee, hips and lower back. Sounds good to me, all things being equal.

However, if you’re not sure, or suffering discomfort, go for a bike fitting consultation and solicit medical advice/as appropriate.

I wasn’t surprised to find myself turning a slightly higher cadence during my formative twenty-mile test runs. Neither do I run knee-popping ratios, in any case. Nonetheless, a good fit, now feels that bit better. Not that I have any intention of wholesale fleet conversion.

Squirt chain lube is proving clean and relatively stoical. Both tubby tourer and fixed gear winter/trainer are still on their first helping, 180 miles in. To be frank, given the relatively dry climate these past few weeks, I’d expect even the most basic formulas to last 200miles.

However, cleanliness seems excellent, with little evidence of contaminant. In common with other emulsion types, I wasn’t surprised to discover my Univega’s cassette cultivating a waxy patina. One that will hopefully, protect the bright electroplating from light tarnish and can be reclaimed by the chain in due course.

Despite incessant promises of balmy days, the mercury is still struggling to nudge 12/13 degrees during the day, so I’ll have to wait before I can do these Primal Onyx aero gloves justice.