Topics

1

Gear Talk / Tandem crank legth

« on: April 30, 2011, 12:56:03 pm »

I recently purchased a Co-Motion Tandem Mocho because of its short standover height. I’m 5’6” and my wife is 5’5”. The dealer set us up with a 175mm front crank and 170mm rear.  The difference in size is to keep the captain from spinning too fast for the stoker. After doing some research I find I should be using a 165mm. Co-Motion factory sets them up with 170 front and rear only. I purchase a small bike and I get a big crank. If I want a smaller crank, only a very few companies offer it and it’s not cheap. Any advice?

2

Gear Talk / Pletscher Double Kickstand installation

« on: April 30, 2011, 11:49:51 am »

I found the secret to the pletscher kickstand installation. See pictures on photo bucket. This is an installation on a Co-Motion tandem that had some challenges with cables and chainring but the same concept works. Purchase neoprene washers at hardware store (Ace Hardware) or body shop as they are used for automotive fenders. They protect the paint and keep the kickstand secure the first time. The pictures show a different bolt that I needed for a wider frame application. I’m now going to install this on my Surly.

http://tinyurl.com/pletscher-kickstand

3

Gear Talk / Magicshine headlights

« on: October 05, 2010, 11:26:51 am »

I've been reading about Magicshine headlights.....great price point & sounds pretty good......Anyone have any experience?

4

General Discussion / Pannier Secuity

« on: September 26, 2010, 10:54:27 am »

Now that I have my LHT all set up with Ortlieb bags all around I’m afraid to take them anywhere. If stopping at a store or anywhere that the bike will be out of my site I’m concerned the bags will walk away. The bags are worth more than the content. I’m using the bike mainly for commute and building miles for a future tour and as a consequence I make many stops. I have a big cable lock for the bike but Ortlieb only offers a wimpy cable for security to keep the honest people honest. I don't mind carrying a bag or two into an establishhment but more than that is awkward. I would like to know how others handle this security issue.