Dynamos

As the nights start creeping in, lighting becomes a greater priority, although like many, good lighting’s a must, year-round. The days of bottle dynamo and glimmer-type halogen lamps are long gone. Riders are spoilt for choice, when it comes to powerful and affordable systems.

For me, navigational prowess and “seen with” safety is equally important. I don’t like anything that might dilute this, hence only my front light is powered by the hub. LEDs at the rear, for me. Keeps things clean and simple too, no wiring to snag.

This is particularly important on a build, such as my Univega, which traverses unmade roads and forest trails. Its Exposure revo lamp will produce 800 lumens, at very slow speeds and to date, the only credible alternative to uber lumen rechargeable systems. 

Fed by a Shimano Ultegra hub, resistance is nominal too, although there’s a weight penalty- around 350g above a standard, high quality front hub.

With this in mind, and being impressed by Shutter Precision’s 403g PD8 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/halo-rim-and-shutter-dynohub-disc-b  I was delighted to take delivery of this Halo Evaura/ Shutter Precision SL9. To my surprise, this is 80g heavier than the Halo White Line and PD8 pairing.

The SV9 is cited as being 309g and though the family resemblance is obvious, looks as if it has been put through a matter-shrinking device, a serious plus, if you want a really, sleek, unobtrusive unit for a winter, or audax build.

Ours was machined to accept centre-lock discs, such as this Shimano but I went the machined sidewall route, so its easily swapped between my fixed gear winter/trainer and 

more traditional 700c ‘cross and touring lorries.

A lack of Shimano lock-ring has stalled testing, although there’s one on order. Meantime, I’ve checked the weights, added rim tape and mounted the Soma Fabrications Shikoro https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/s .

Riding, whether it’s lightweight bicycles, or middleweight motorcycles has always been about freedom. The ability to escape, disappear and be “at one” with machine and surroundings. High quality lighting simply enhances the experience.

Long obsolete now, but the first generation of high-power lead acid systems, such as Night Sun and BLT were game changing. Run times weren’t overly generous and output was much less tuneable, compared with contemporary setups, thus not the best round town.

However, these systems allowed us to “own” the forest trails and deserted backroads. Night brings a completely different persona to frequently travelled routes. North Holmwood in Surrey magically transforms from well-heeled suburbia, to lanes illuminated only by houses and the occasional, passing vehicle.

There’s a lot to be said in favour of nocturnal riding. Firstly, it brings a completely different character to familiar routes. Not only do we become more aware of our surroundings, but climbs become less arduous, descents more fun and for me personally, there’s a deeper sense of connection with my machines.

Aside from seasonal compulsion, I often test bikes and equipment in the dark, for precisely this reason. I may/mot be drawn to the aesthetics of something but how does it perform on a truly functional level, can I rely on it? Sure, reliability is of greatest importance during the depths of winter and there’s sound argument for the occasional mechanical being part n’ parcel of riding.

I discovered my Univega’s rear cantilevers had become extremely sticky, dragging on the rim. Having stripped and inspected the cantilever posts, given these were almost 13 years old and were OEM equipment on my fixed gear winter/trainer, I had a rummage through the spares drawer and fitted some Avid shorty.

This sorted the problem, offer improved modulation/feel and are easier to setup. As a precaution, I also stripped, re-greased and reassembled the IRD CAFAM 2 https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/ird-cafam-2-cantilever-brakes . There was some minor corrosion on the springs but that was pretty much it and to be expected, given the long winter we had.

Even the best maintained machines can let us down, unexpectedly.  Night riding is also good, for general reflection and the sense of speed, distance and escape often allows the unconscious mind to work overtime. Ever wondered why you return with renewed clarity and often, the solution to problems-complex, or otherwise?

  

Making Contact

Contact points are probably the most personal and subjective components. Redshift sports are sending us their Shock Stop suspension stem. Like most things, its not a new concept. https://redshiftsports.com/shockstop-suspension-stem

Redshift sports are a group of mechanical engineers and this is apparent in their meticulous approach to research and development. Other components include their Switch system. https://redshiftsports.com/systems

These include a quick-release aerobar and a dual position seat post, which can be adjusted for an aero/road stance to suit conditions. A very appealing idea, allowing a road bike to double as a TT machine with minimal faff.     

Those of us who spent the early 90s blasting along the trails, will doubtless draw parallels between this, and the Girvin Flex stem. I was very fond of my Flex stem (not to mention the 1990 Kona Lava dome it was fitted to).

Though it offers between 10 and 20mm of movement, the shock stop is aimed at the thinner tyre Gravel/Cross/Adventure faithful. The system is reckoned to be maintenance free.

Elastomers are the common link between the two designs. The Girvin wears it’s with pride, the Redshift’s are internal (primarily because it’s an Ahead system). Contact points can also fool you into thinking it’s the best/worst change you’ve made.

I’ll reserve judgement, temper my excitement and reflect after 400miles, or so.  Several hundred miles hence and I formed some definite opinions, regarding the Soma Highway1 handlebars. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma-highway-1-handlebars  The change of stance is exactly what I was seeking. Despite the Holdsworth’s pencil thin steel tubes and carbon fork, the front end can feel very direct, when tackling washboard surfaces, especially at speed.  

I have also been impressed by this Genetic seat post. Some have drawn parallels between this, and Thomson units. There are clearly nods in the latter’s direction and these really appeal to me aesthetically.

CNC machined 7075 aluminium alloy is extremely durable and so far, the anodized finish is extremely pleasing, aesthetically and better than I’ve come to expect from this price point. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/genetic-syngenic-seatpost

Ours was the road biased 300mm, plenty long enough for my ‘cross cum gravel biased fixed. There is a 400mm version, arguably better suited to mountain bikes and/or taller folks, riding smaller compact geometry road framesets. For the time being, it’ll stay, and I’ve earmarked the mighty Thudbuster https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/post-modernism  for project Dawes.

Staying with contact, tyres are our first point, with terra firma. A more changeable weather front has presented an ideal opportunity to really test the Vee Tire Co City Cruz. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/vee-tire-co-city-cruz-tyres

Without giving too much away, it’s a dependable tyre, well suited to commuting, general riding and winter duties. The sort ideally suited to bikes that serve as trailer/tagalong tugs.

In my experience, children can really enjoy winter rides (so long as the temperature’s not too extreme). 

Properly dressed and at a steady tempo +3/5 is fine fir them. However, time spent fixing a flat (s) can quickly lead to chill, misery and negative perceptions of riding.

On the flip side, there’s a weight penalty. In this instance, 1600g to a bike, which did give said fixed, a slightly stodgy feel, so having done 400miles and reached some definite conclusions, I’ve reverted to the Soma Fabrications Super Vitesse EX. A fast and very supple tyre, which tip the scales at a feathery 566g (700x33c) https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/soma-fabrications-vitesse

Now things tend to expire in threes. First, my Cat Eye Rapid X rear light expired, refused to power up, or accept charge. John Moss had a look on my behalf and said the switch had mysteriously combusted, consuming the PCB track in its wake.

Bin fodder, essentially. Next to expire was my ‘cross inspired fixed’s rear hub. Thankfully, I was only half a mile from home, the wheel was literally dancing the samba. I headed home and swapped it for the deep section Halo hoop.

Then I noticed its sidewall had developed a massive bulge. Back to base, Soma Fabrication super Vitesse EX transferred, it was time to disappear, along the backroads. So this configuration stays, until I make time, to strip and investigate further.

Sunny Days, Soma Bars

The continued heatwave brought with it, a palpable spike of aggression, on the roads. It is of course, the peak of CHAV mating season, characterised by older Vauxhall Corsa and similar hatchbacks. 

Loud, badly fitted (back-firing) exhausts mandatory, to attract a mate. Presumably, this, coupled with the thumping base will induce the female’s rapid climax and validate the male’s masculinity.  

Those with more cash dress them in badly fitted body kits and spoilers. Insurance is another optional extra, since any unfortunate road user they hit, will be able to absorb the cost and any subsequent rehabilitation.

However, while an easily identifiable and somewhat predictable group, I’ve had several close encounters with others-in the saddle and behind the wheel, this past week, or so.  

It is tempting to suggest legislating against callousness and stupidity. However, compulsory driving assessments (not tests) may prove a more pragmatic solution.

However, to some extent, you can only teach those, who are willing to learn. If the UK’s systems of education, focused on attainment, rather than passing tests, maybe we’d see enlightenment.

On the flip side, this weather has provided ample opportunity to fettle and put miles on my fair-weather builds. My Holdsworth’s urban pursuit style bars, have been substituted for these 46cm Soma Highway1 drops. Made from 6061 T6 aluminium alloy, these are a compact design, which permit more time on the drops, and bring the brakes closer.

Other vital statistics include 75mm reach, 130mm drop… They’re also available in widths between 38 and 46cm and black, or silver finish. An obvious choice for riders with small hands. Less, for a rider, such as myself, with long, willowy digits. However, a deeper drop would’ve positioned me uncomfortably low, given the stem height and head tube length.

This also presented a few considerations, brake-lever wise and provided an opportune moment to replace the cable. I had pondered going the traditional drop and dummy lever route, thus giving me a cruising position.  Some older Tektro (Campag patterns) were holidaying in the spares drawer. A Dirty Harry BMX lever, mounted along the tops, was another option.

Ultimately, I plumped to keep the ACOR reverse action TT lever. Nice, smooth action, low weight, sleek looks. Upgrading to this Jagwire pro road cable https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/jagwire-pro-road-brake-kit has also brought stopping up a notch or two. Good thing too, judging by several heart in mouth, emergency stops, demanded during the first few miles, of our first outing.

A bare chested, breast-beating male, piloting a 2003 Corsa, being the main offender…

With the mercury cruising into 30 degrees, I’ve also been struggling to maintain 20mph and keep pace with the increasingly maddening four wheeled crowd.

The Gods were merciful. I got the miles in without further incident and found some, suitable photographic locations for Wednesday’s shoot. (I spent several days, the previous week, building a new, photographic website https://michael-stenning.format.com/#1 ) I digress.

Back to the Highway 1 bars and drops generally. These not only offer a lower crouch, for more spirited, faster descending but also alternative hand positions, than the otherwise venerable BBB. Thus far, the Soma seem reassuringly stiff. Even with my full weight, bearing down, on the drops.  

The finish is a mixed of polished and shot-peened. Now, the latter serves two purposes. Cynics will point out, that shot peening is a cheaper, less labour-intensive process than polishing. However, it also serves a structural purpose. Those tiny dimples are deployed to help counteract stress fractures, that would otherwise, lead to structural fatigue over time.     

These were dressed in some used, though solid, Guee silicone bar wrap, previously adorning my Univega’s moustache bars. I’d put these to one side, when some Lizard Skins DSP 2.5 bar wrap arrived, for testing. https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/lizard-skins-dsp

The Guee have a very different texture to the red Genetic silicone bar wrap (link). This provides superior purchase in wet/foul weather Despite the thinner density, I was still able to strike a decent balance between coverage, bulk and damping.

In amongst all this excitement, I also found myself in Skegness. One of those notorious places, I’d never been. Aside from the usual sea-side attractions and stag night shenanigans, a Sinclair C5 and very friendly pilot!

Now, the rains are back, presenting an ideal opportunity to see how these Vee Tire Co City Cruz cope, on waterlogged roads. https://www.facebook.com/Sevendaycyclistmagazine/videos/2030308033666784/

Resilience

Long, spirited (not to mention, hot) miles aboard the teenage dream, have enabled me to reach substantive conclusions, about various bits of equipment. Most notably, the Passport Crochet backed cycling mitts https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/pasport-crochet-back-cycling-mitts  and the Joes No flats Eco-Nano dry lube https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/joe-s-no-flats  

We also received these 35mm section Vee Tire City Cruz https://www.veetireco.com/listings/city-trekking-city-cruz/ and some unexpected (but very welcome) goodies from Green Oil www.Greenoil.net.  It seems they have revamped their Green Clean, removing most of the water content, thus weighs considerably less in transit. Theoretically reducing the energy required to transport it.

Elsewhere, we have their Bamboo detail brush.

The handle is made from sustainably sourced bamboo. The bristles are created from bio-plastic, which is derived from the castor plant

This is basically designed for scrubbing cassettes, chains and other, hard to reach drivetrain components-after they’ve been given a blast of degreaser.

Cursory inspection suggests the City Cruze are intended to compete with Schwalbe’s legendary Marathon family. Yes, there are some obvious cosmetic nods, in their direction. However, I’m advised the City Cruze are urban/trekking, rather than touring rubber.

I’ve whipped one up front. on my ‘cross/gravel inspired fixed. The Schwalbe Marathon GT https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/schwalbe-marathon-gt-tyres  follows behind, as a comparator. Contemplation and reflection are other themes of my rides “Headspace” some might say.

Winding up the tempo along open roads and times, where other traffic is little to moderate, is extremely liberating. Only managed 35 on this 1in 7 descent, assisted by a passing double decker bus. https://www.facebook.com/Sevendaycyclistmagazine/videos/1990325537665034/  (My record is 42mph on a solo, 55 on a tandem). Came close on the Holdsworth but, several attempts suggest I require a lower position, than the present, BBB pursuit pattern bars permit.

The Teenage dream’s Salsa Bell lap were one option, and work very well, in that context but I’m thinking, in this instance, a shallower drop, such as Soma Bar1, would be better.

Behind the Camera…

Models; like any other cross section of the population, delight and disappoint in equal measure. I’ve been approached by models recently, asking me to pay them, for nude shoots. Though thankfully rare, I get approaches from some hobbyist models, which boil down to “How’s you? I want to be paid £20ph, for exposing myself to you, with no creative merit whatsoever”.

Personally, I’m insulted by these approaches, which assume the slightest hint of exposed flesh, will leave me spellbound! There is clearly, a market for this “Flash for cash” formula. 

After all, the “Reader’s Wives” (badly shot, homemade, softcore porn) was a phenomenally popular genre and still, refuses to die. 

Similarly, while I acknowledge we all have to start somewhere, no amount of grainy, pouting selfies tells me how good (or otherwise) a model, you are.

 Now, I have no issue with paying people, for their skills and services.

I will pay models, where appropriate, as part of a wider, commercial commission. Just as a builder/ property developer should pay a bricklayer/electrician/plasterer for their work. 

However, some of these approaches, try to stipulate what I may/not do with the images afterward.

The reality is this. If I (or another photographer) have paid for your services, I/they may do pretty much what I/they choose afterward. Professional models know this, so terms are explicit and agreed, long before we enter a studio.

I’m not in the business of using images that would cause distress, or leave models feeling uncomfortable. However, it is something to consider, if you are entering modelling, and considering nude/topless/erotic/adult work.

Unless a commercial client approaches me with this kind of commission, I respond, with my list of charges. It’s a polite way of declining and swerving, a whole heap, of potential trouble, further along the line.

Good pre-shoot communications reveal a model’s motivations, wat they are looking to achieve and, in what sort of timescales. It’s also a great way, of filtering out unreliable, unprofessional and in some instances, dangerous, people.

There are plenty of “photographers” and plenty of “models” to choose from. Hours are like diamonds, don’t let them waste. Know your worth and choose accordingly. That goes for life, generally.

This week’s, delightful model, is Carla Stillwell https://purpleport.com/portfolio/vixenmummy

Realisation & Continued Rationalisation

Sometimes ablutions induce inspiration. Unleashing Godzilla upon an unexpecting sewer system, I suddenly realised the Dawes mtb frameset and Driven, road crankset, would be incompatible. 

No idea, why this Eureka moment hadn’t dawned earlier, but crucially, it did.

Mid Purge, those hairs-breadth memories, of Stronglight 100 arms and Univega chainstays, roared past at light speed. 

Simplest thing all round…Sell the Sun Race unit, a Shimano Tiagra double, buy a Shimano Zee and turn a modest profit. Found the latter for £68. 170mm, 5 mm short of ideal but I’ll raise the seatpost by 5mm to compensate.

Right part, space reclaimed and monies recouped.

No faff, no fuss and the 36 ring, mated to a 13-27 cassette would give a decent spread of ratios. Time is another resource, to be factored into this and frankly, any build/project.

Wasting it, on the wrong people, or indeed, component is frankly, foolish.  Well, that’s not entirely fair. Indeed, conversely there is sound argument for sticking with something, until you have it sussed. Learning how to strip and rebuild a bike/engine, or similar task is invaluable, in many respects, and closely linked to personal discipline.  

However, the point I am making here is a cost-benefit-efficiency analysis. For example, I can weld to a satisfactory, basic standard. One, which is adequate for my needs and pays for itself, within those designated limits.

Undertaking a certification-based course would certainly improve my welding skill and with it, a tremendous sense of satisfaction. Another course of study might, be a more efficient use of resources, fiscal and personal.

Back to project gravel, a fair bit of rationalisation is needed before I am at the stage, where I can commence phase 2. Laying out and designating parts proper.

Rationalising equipment also applies to photography.

Another rule of mine. Any upgrades must run in parallel, with selling on unwanted/unused equipment. I recently acquired this Samsung NX300, which, is primarily for street photography, where compact dimensions don’t draw the same sort of (unwanted) attention from would be subjects. Or confrontation with, heavy handed and/or misinformed security personnel.

Why the NX300? Well, I found myself erring dangerously close towards one of Fuji’s X series. Undeniably pretty, this would’ve meant another system of lenses and yes, unnecessary outlay.   I already had the NX1000 and lenses, which were interchangeable and still in great condition.

However, my NX100 (originally launched to compete alongside Sony’s NEX3 and 5) was doing something close to nothing, wasn’t of the same calibre and bought during a difficult divorce. Served its purpose, needed to go.  

This Mayo Jaune polish is proving more versatile than I first expected, achieving impressive results on polished and plated surfaces too. Consistency and smell are rather reminiscent of another, almost ubiquitous, yellow cutting compound. Polishes and waxes are two very different products but often confused. For example, common or garden polymer-based car waxes will remove traces of oxidisation and mask swirls/scratches.

However, a polish is designed (in this instance, chemically) with abrasive particles. These cut into the top layer, removing oxidisation, light corrosion, dulling etc. That said; they aren’t a magic bullet. Brushed and matt finishes, such as titanium or matt carbon surface will become shiny, if its been polished, in the traditional sense. Hence the importance, of using matt-specific products.

Given a harsh winter and early season, the “Teenage Dream” has been hibernating far too long. Fancying some variable gear fun, I swapped the Schwalbe Lugano, for a lighter, faster 25mm section Vee Tire Co Rain Runner (Now known as Rolldiac, remember). 

Its widget bar wrap was looking a little grimy in places, so gently cleaned with some Duck Smart Black Stuff Degreaser gel. I stripped chain and cassette of pre-existing, residual lube, using the Crankalicious Gumchained remedy.

Predictably, a wash n’ polymer waxing followed. Last; but not least, some chain lube. Dry/Wax…Plumped for TF2 ultra dry chain wax https://www.sevendaycyclist.com/tf2  , which runs super clean but requires several hours curing time.

I discovered its long serving wireless computer wasn’t registering. Tried the usual diagnostics; proximity of sensor to magnet, changing the sensor battery etc, just a big fat zero…. A flash of inspiration saw me try this fuchsia Knog NERD- bingo!     

Retro Flavours & Reckless Behaviour

Been a turbulent week, tempered by superb model shoots and plenty of miles aboard my Holdsworth.  Yes, sunny days mean I err toward location, rather than studio based photography.

There are exceptions, obviously. I shot these with Sophia Louise Delancey at Juice photography studio, in Alresford recently. https://en-gb.facebook.com/Juice-Photographic-Studio-1736661156638282/  She’s very versatile, an accomplished singer and actress, too. https://purpleport.com/portfolio/sophialouisedelancey/

Retro arrived in the form of these Passport Cycling mitts with crochet backs. An iconic, some might say, timeless design. Ours are the black white and tan, which for me, is preferable to the white/blue/red.

There’s also a blue/tan version with white detailing, should you prefer. Genuine hides divide opinion. I respect the views of strict vegetarians, who prefer Amara palms, with gel padding but, when properly cared for (left to dry naturally and fed, periodically, with leather conditioner) they offer tremendous comfort and develop a very unique, personalised patina.

There’s a long way to go before (I’ve only just crossed the 125mile marker) I reach any conclusions but the padding seems generous and the hide supple. Like anything else, price is a good indicator of quality but I’ve had others of similar price-point, which have lasted many thousands of miles.

However, despite the care described, the hide eventually sagged and even curled up at the fingers, amplifying fatigue and other discomfort. My first pair, bought for me in March 1987 were branded Caratti, had grey palms and cost £6.99.

This was back in the days, when I was lusting after an Au pair’s stepfather’s Stablinski with chrome forks and complete Shimano 600 groupset. Barry Hoban branded Coventry Eagle, with their fluted seatposts and pencil thin 531c tubesets, were another infamous distraction. Particularly during science and geography lessons. Ironically, human geography held my attention fractionally longer. 

Those cotton, crochet backs also have a tendency to become, and remain wet, whereas Lycra backed designs, with synthetic palms tend to dry pretty quickly, following a stiff breeze. Continuing to ride this retro wave, I’ve been doing the odd bit of component daydreaming for project gravel.

Now, I was thinking that one inch threaded headsets (Of any quality, at least) were pretty much extinct. However, it seems Soma Fabrications still produce some (albeit, made under licence, by Tange). http://www.interlocracing.com/headsets/roller-drive-threaded-headset

Depending on the stack height, (i.e. whether it’s compatible, with the existing setup) I may go the double roller bearing route.