Messages

1

General Discussion / Re: looking for a new bike

« on: July 26, 2010, 11:12:15 pm »

I really like my Long Haul Trucker. If you do get a steel bike, make sure you have some touchup paint. Surly doesn't carry paint, so you need to get some from a model shop or nail polish.

2

General Discussion / Re: Riding Position

« on: July 24, 2010, 06:32:35 pm »

Thanks!

3

General Discussion / Riding Position

« on: July 24, 2010, 12:32:43 pm »

Been riding my LHT about 20 miles a day and I'd like to increase my mileage. I've been focusing on keeping a flat back and keeping my core engaged. I need to do exercises for my upper and lower back and upper and lower abs to have a stronger core. For those riding over 40 miles a day, how do you keep your core engaged constantly? Does it just come naturally after riding so many miles? Do you find yourself getting lax and having to adjust your position? I find riding on the hoods is the best way to keep the back flat. I find it hard to keep my back flat when riding on the straight part with my drop-style bars. Thanks for any help.

4

Urban Cycling / Cycling in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

« on: July 12, 2010, 05:17:20 pm »

I just did a 26-mile tour in Detroit Lakes with my Surly LHT. I know 26 miles is a short ride for many cyclists, but for me it works. The scenery was great and the folks were friendly. There is a 42-mile tour too. I converted from a mountain bike to a touring bike this year and am enjoying it tremendously. 

5

Gear Talk / Re: Gear for a three-day tour

« on: March 05, 2010, 01:41:35 pm »

I went to the bike shop and got some gear. My bill came to $157. That's not bad for a pair of leg warmers, arm warmers, cycling shorts (decided to get an extra pair), light and two bottle cages. The items were about 15 to 35 percent off.

6

Gear Talk / Re: Gear for a three-day tour

« on: March 05, 2010, 11:15:18 am »

You are right, I am based in Bismarck. I am looking to do the Bike the Border tour in June. For my first tour, I thought I would try a supported one and a short one.  The route goes through Crosby and other surrounding towns in ND. CANDISC looks like a great one to try too. Regarding the trees, we do have some small forested areas scattered throughout the state.  Glad your visit was a good one. I'll pass the comment on to my husband who works with the state tourism agency. Thanks for your help.

7

Gear Talk / Re: Gear for a three-day tour

« on: March 04, 2010, 10:19:21 pm »

Thank you for your suggestions. I've gone for two short rides with my Surly. It's been in the twenties. I stay warm, but I am overdressed. I may need to try the leg warmers.

8

Gear Talk / Re: Jamis Aurora vs. Surly LHT

« on: March 04, 2010, 10:07:18 pm »

I just got a Surly LHT. I've only ridden it a few times around town. I am 5'9 and about 150 lbs. When looking for a new bike, I tried out the Bianchi Volpe and Raleigh Clubman also at the bike shop. I felt the LHT was the smoothest ride. I'm a newbie to steel frames, so I don't know all the technical stuff. The saddle on the LHT is poor. I have long arms and a long torso and it fit right. The off-set seat post was nice.

9

Gear Talk / Gear for a three-day tour

« on: March 04, 2010, 04:05:40 pm »

Hi,

I've never posted a post before, so here goes. I'm looking to do a three-day tour in North Dakota in June. My first tour. I am on a budget. I just got a Surly LHT, so I got a good bike. I know cycling shorts are a must, and I've got those. The morning temps will be in the 40-50 degree range. I'm wondering if I in the morning if I start out with some adidas nylon sweats over my shorts if the wind resistance is going to slow me down too much, compared to tights. I'm going to purchase a couple of polyester tops for baselayers and maybe a jersey. I do have a nylon stearns rain coat that I can layer underneath. Thanks for your input.