Topics

1

Gear Talk / Kick Stands

« on: November 08, 2007, 01:35:31 am »

I just bought a new touring bike today.  All I can think about is all the cool and necessary accessories I need to get.
I want to buy a kick stand that can support a loaded bike.
If there is one you really like, let me know and where to buy it.
Thanks

2

Gear Talk / Front Derailer

« on: August 20, 2007, 03:59:15 pm »

I'm thinking about building out a new bike.  I'm not a derailer expert, and I could use some insight.
On the Shimano website some front derailers are "top swing" and some are "bottom swing".  Is one better than the other for a touring bike.
Some derailers are "wide link"  Again, I'm stumped.
If anyone out there has a opinion or preference of derailers, I would love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks

3

Gear Talk / Cleaning Bike

« on: May 22, 2007, 11:38:32 pm »

I'm constantly getting caught in rain storms.  The sand and junk takes a while to clean out real well.
I know it is not recommended to use a power washer for it  blows out the good grease for key components.
However, what about using a air compressor set on low pressure, just to get the sand out after it dries?

Any thoughts?

4

Gear Talk / BOB Suspension or Not

« on: January 11, 2007, 05:49:43 pm »

I got a gift card for Christmas to buy a BOB trailer.
I would be using the trailer for both road and dirt tours.  I have seen plenty of people using the NON-Suspension models in the dirt.  Sure it bounces around, but it doesn't seem to bother them to much.
Less bounce, more weight, more money
vs.
More bounce, less weight, less money.

Cast your votes and give me a brief opinion
Isn't Christmas Great!!

5

Gear Talk / Newbie on Panniers

« on: January 20, 2006, 09:02:56 pm »

I'm a new member, and have never done a tour before, although I do ride alot.  I have just signed up for the Introduction to Mountain Bike Tour with ACA.
I have a lot of stuff to buy, and I'm not real knowledgable yet, but getting there.

I'm thinking about buying the Arkel XM-45 panniers designed for mountain bikes and their short chain stays.  I ride a 2005 Santa Cruz Blur.  What do you all think?  Sound good or would your point me in another direction.

On a side note, I bought the Big Agnes Seedhouse tent as featured in the Novemeber issue of ACA.  It is really nice.
I'm certain you have all seen these NEWBIE questions before, but we do appreciate your help

6

Routes / Short Mtn tours in CO

« on: February 27, 2006, 11:37:33 pm »

I live in Colo Springs and I'm trying to get some ideas for short tours.  I can generally only spare 1,2 or 3 nights at a time.
There are plenty of point to point routes, but I'm looking for loops to finish back at my car.  My desire is for mountian biking.

Any ideas besides just studying maps which I'm currently doing

7

General Discussion / Intro to Dirt Touring

« on: June 26, 2006, 12:25:50 am »

I just completed the Intro to Dirt Touring in Colorado.
The tour was great.  Our group was small, and the adventures were many.  Wally did a super job of leading our team.  Big Kudos to Wally!!!
I had a great time, and if anyone ever wants to get off the roads, you should give dirt touring a try.  Great experience and I'm can't wait to get out there again.  A real wilderness experience.  If anyone has any questions about it, just fire away.