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.
