Messages

16

General Discussion / Re: looking for touring shoes with a wide fit

« on: December 01, 2010, 07:12:56 pm »

I went with Lake MTB shoes in a EE (I wear New Balance in an E). I went with MTB shoes because I have an abnormal foot - my front is EE, my heel is normal. The ski-binding style straps on the MTB shoe allow me to snug down better in the back, while leaving the front loose. I also don't mind the MTB style - they remind me a lot of the touring shoes I had when I was a teenager.

17

Gear Talk / Re: GORE-tex- breathable jacket with Removable Hood- Still made?

« on: November 30, 2010, 09:02:48 pm »

I just ordered one of these from Santa. http://www.bicycleclothing.com/Waterproof-Breathable-Rain-Jackets.html Detachable hood is optional.  http://www.bicycleclothing.com/Rain-Hood-Attachable.html I liked the fact that these were made in the USA, and promised lots of venting. I'll trust cyclists in Oregon to know how to design a good rain jacket.

18

Gear Talk / Is it worth changing tires?

« on: November 30, 2010, 08:57:38 pm »

I bought a used Surly LHT. It came with Bontraeger H2 tires, size 26x1.5". I'm at least 4 mph slower on my standard Sunday morning course v. my steel-framed LeMond with Conti Gatorskins 700x23. While I expected the LHT to be slower, I guess I feel like these H2s just do not roll well. I have not typically ridden mountain bikes or 26" wheels, so maybe it's all in my head. Is it worth it to step up to something lighter and allegedly better rolling like the Schwalbe Marathon Supreme 26x1.6 folding, or will I likely just be disappointed? I read one post where the writer warned against using a folding tire for loaded touring, is this the main stream opinion or one person's unfortunate anecdote?

19

General Discussion / Re: "Off-season" training

« on: November 29, 2010, 10:10:52 pm »

Great and timely topic. I'm in Wisconsin, and two-foot snow is not unusual. Some find a way to commute regardless, I think that the training value is outweighted by the injury risk on most days from December through February for anyone. That, and booties only keep your toes warm for so long when it drops below 25 degrees.

Last year I hit the pool 1-3 times a week in the winter. I did notice a huge decrease in back and neck problems this year. I started doing a yoga class this September, and I've seen a noticeable improvement with a chronic recurring injury. I suspect that I have a complementary muscle weakness and the strenght and streching benefits of yoga are working me through it.

I appreciate the DVD recommendations greatly. I was also looking at some winter training tips on-line and would appreciate hearing anyone's thoughts. Here's a link: www.cptips.com/wntrtrg.htm Again, seems to be more racing oriented. Anyone have an opinion on spinning classes?

20

Gear Talk / Re: Hammock Systems....

« on: November 11, 2010, 12:17:52 pm »

I bought a Hennessy Hammock last winter. This I summer used it on a week-long supported bike tour, and a weekend self-supported, all in the mid-west. It performed very well in a severe rainstorm, even though I had minimal experience setting it up. Zero water inside. The wind made me feel like a baby in a cradle. It sets up and packs down easily, which is a plus assuming you will be doing it solo. Finding suitable trees can be a challenge (new schools = puny trees, often spaced too far apart), but this can be solved by bringing more rope. But if you're picking your own campgrounds a couple of minutes looking at a sattellite photo on google will tell you if there are enough trees or other objects nearby to make do. Worst case scenario you can just throw it on the ground and use it like a bivy sack. I do recommend at least getting the under-insulation system, or taking along a thermarest pad. Even warm nights (60s) can feel a bit cool when you body has no contact with the ground. Setting aside all of the caveats, I've never slept better on the road.