Messages

1

Gear Talk / Re: RX Cycling Sunglasses

« on: September 05, 2011, 12:50:15 pm »

I would recommend polycarbonate lens, they are stronger and lighter. Polarized lenses keeps the sun out. Anti-reflective coated lenses keeps the glare out. Transition although good initially, the lens will not come back to clear after awhile. Regarding cost, I would get an inexpensive vision policy for about $16.00 a month in Florida. It would pay for your annual eye exam (less a $10 dialation copay) and gives you approximately $300 towards the cost of your frames and lenses. If you are interested and email me offline, (in my profile) I will recommend a 50 state plan for you. P.S. I would have an inexpenses back up pair.

2

General Discussion / Re: What about your Bike??????

« on: September 05, 2011, 12:48:32 am »

I am not as trusting as the others above. I use an eight foot Saris cable and lock. Lock my bike around a tree. Not possible all the time. I take the front wheel and seat/post inside my tent with my panniers/handbar bag. If at a motel, in my room or in a locked storage area. So far so good. 

3

General Discussion / Re: Best seat for your butt

« on: August 07, 2011, 01:59:15 pm »

LexieCall, we wish you a good trip. There is no substitue for getting your bottom road hard. I rode a Brooks Professional Saddle for a many years. A friend of mine, who also rode the same saddle, suggested the Sela Italia. He was so enthusiastic about it. He said he consistantly rode plus 100 miles a day and he forgot the saddle was there. I voiced concerned about the saddle being too soft after awhile. He assured me, for him, that was not the case, so I purchased one. So far so good.

We also experimented with the Terry Liberator X & Y. Not for us, too hard. Their free 30 day money back started from the day they shipped the saddle to us, to the day it was received back by them, about 2 & 1/2 weeks of riding time. Our bottoms were in shape, maybe if we had had more time, we may have gotten use to it. The Sella was good, out of the box. Proper fiting bicycle doesn't hurt either. Punn intended. Of course, you could spend a bundle and purchase a recumbent. Ride safely.

4

Gear Talk / Re: "SKS" Fenders??

« on: August 07, 2011, 12:35:48 pm »

You made a good save. Closer is definately better but they will be easier to clean out the gunk that may accumulate after you ride through any mud. I am disappointed with Peter White, he should know better and refund your money.

5

General Discussion / Re: Best seat for your butt

« on: July 27, 2011, 10:31:00 pm »

Bogiesan, it is definately a possible solution to the above. The more I think about it, a recumbent is beginning to make sense. Besides taking the pain out of your butt, it relieves arm and neck pain. I am still concerned about two areas, climbing and riding on the road with cars. I also see there are a number of models. Whether you do it on this thead or start a new one, your input would be much appreciated.

6

General Discussion / Re: Leaving tomorrow!

« on: July 27, 2011, 10:18:35 pm »

Budges, don't give up. Take the pressure off. Break it down into smaller segments. If you don't make it across the country, you still have accomplished a lot. You will learn what works and doesn't and will do it the next time. Pay attention to your health and the heat. Where are you now? Do you journal? You may need a fan club. Try to do some sight seeing or get into the people you will meet along the way. I have learned in cycling, you can not fail if you are riding across America and having fun.

7

General Discussion / Re: Best seat for your butt

« on: July 25, 2011, 11:38:27 pm »

I recently switched from a Brooks to a Sella Italia Men's Gel with a cut out. So far so good. Comfortable out of the box. I haven't done any long rides yet. I will know after a few 80 mile days. (A saddle that is good for 30 miles may be too soft at higher mileage) I know they make a woman's version. Price around $120. I would try for a minimum 30 day trial period, no matter what saddle you choose.

8

Routes / Re: Sourhern Tier Route-Travelling from UK- Help

« on: July 25, 2011, 11:17:55 pm »

Once you get to St. Augustine, eat at Osteen's, rent a car, and go out of Orlando, you may save money.

9

General Discussion / Re: Critters inside your tent?

« on: July 25, 2011, 08:50:38 pm »

Litespeed, I did a quick trip from Tampa to St. Augustine last summer. I was going to camp there but when I got to St. Augustine, a hung out at the Brew House and decided to stay at a motel. Thanks for the heads up.

10

Routes / Re: Grandfather and granddaughter cycle the Underground Railroad

« on: July 25, 2011, 12:03:25 am »

What a great photo album! This is a terrific experience for you and your grandaughter. What a wonderful legacy to leave your grandaughter, she will always remember her special time with you. It also builds confidence that she can accomplish almost anything. Good for you!!!!!

11

Gear Talk / Re: "SKS" Fenders??

« on: July 24, 2011, 11:53:14 pm »

I have SKS brand fenders on my touring bike. I like them because they enable me to put the widest possible fender that would fit, incase I wanted to go with a wider tire.  I also have a bike or two that use Planet Bike Fenders and they are a little less expensive and work well.

12

General Discussion / Re: Critters inside your tent?

« on: July 24, 2011, 11:40:47 pm »

I once camped in a part of northern NJ in High Point State Park. While cleaning up dinner, with my head lamp on, I felt like a wagon train surounded by indians. All I could see were eyes in a complete circle, around the camp sight. The food was up high suspended between two trees outside the campsite, no food in the tent, but we had cough syrup and lemonade. The raccoons were smart enough to unzip the tent. Needless to say, it was an interesting night.  There was damage on the side of the tent, where they were scratching. Campmor respaired the tent. Other than that, I never had any real problems.

13

Gear Talk / Re: Fitting a Brooks Saddle

« on: July 24, 2011, 11:23:19 pm »

Is the Flyer the one with springs? I rode a Brooks Professional for more years than I can remember and recently switched to another saddle. I did not have the problems you are encountering. If the saddle tilt is correct and the proper fit is achieved, (unless your top tube and stem are too long) you shouldn't slide forward and have the downward pressure on your arms, shoulder and neck. I am assuming that you did not experience this with your previous saddle. I would not rule out a defective saddle. Even though it is a "Brooks" they are not immune to defective workmanship. (Springs can be tricky) Can you exchange it? If so, I would go with a B17.

14

General Discussion / Re: Leaving tomorrow!

« on: July 24, 2011, 10:46:17 pm »

That was quite a discription, I agree, good lighting (200 lumens front light Planet Bike Strobe rear), Adventure Cycling safety triangle, and start very very early. I know you will be mostly camping but on the hot days, purchase a 100 oz. Camelback (approx 3 liters) I find places where I can freeze the bladder, has helped immensely. If you can get 75% of your mileage in by 11am would be my goal. Sometimes one can not control the timing of ones trip. I ride in Florida, in the summer and survive, but ride smart. Good luck and enjoy your experience. BTW, congratulations Australia on Cadell Evans winning the Tour de France.

15

Routes / Re: Routes in weird places

« on: July 11, 2011, 10:32:33 pm »

Tony is right about the Outback, if you go to China, try the Gobi Desert and head to Eastern Mongolia. What kind of bicycle will you use for your new outlook on touring?