Topics

1

Gear Talk / Bar-end mirror & front down tube shifter?

« on: April 21, 2012, 04:29:45 pm »

I know the answer to this question may be largely dependent on personal taste & preference, but --

I am now the proud owner of a new Randonee, with help from the REI 20% sale.  I can't put a bar-end mirror on this now because of the bar-cons, and I feel naked without a mirror.  I'm not a huge fan of the other options (helmet & eyeglass mirrors, because they are awkward & can be shaky, or the bigger bar-mounted mirrors because they look like they stop a lot of wind).

I am thinking of moving the left shifter from the bar-end to the down tube, and mounting a bar-end mirror because they're convenient, dependable, and fairly aero. 

What do you think?  Is this a pretty practical choice?  If I do this, anything I need to know about the minor surgery involved?  I haven't really messed with bike components in a couple decades.

Steve

2

Routes / West to East, Western Express & Trans Am -- Dates?

« on: February 03, 2012, 08:45:36 pm »

Hi folks:

I have seen some other threads that touch on this topic, but none exactly on point for me.  I hope to do the Western Express variant of the Trans Am in 2013.  It could be either spring or fall. 

I need to block out some dates for the trip well in advance, and was wondering: what would you recommend if you could choose an ideal departure date for this route in the spring?  How about the fall?  I know it's a balancing act between risking some very hot days and catching some blizzards in the high country.  What's your best guess?

Thanks!

Steve