Messages

31

Gear Talk / Re: Which pedal?

« on: July 30, 2010, 08:02:56 am »

Let's reignite a little controversy on this pedal post.  So I got the cleated combination Shimano pedals, got cleated shoes - Keen comuters and after trying them out and getting the cleats adjusted so they were not too tight and I could supposedly get my feet free when needed, I proptly stall on a fairly steep hill and hit the black stuff and just about fracture my wrist.  Now I'm out of action for a few weeks at least and although the cleats can be adjusted further have zero intention of ever letting this happen again.  I'm not at an age where scars and plaster casts gain any street cred.  So back to where I started on my original, simple flat, non cleated pedals that get scorned by the so-called pros.  Seems now that everyone I talk to has had similar experiences with cleats - some with more serious results even after using them for some time, and many have like me sworn away from them.  So how come no one mentioned that issue when I was enquiring about using them in the first place?  Personally I think all cleated pedals should come with a very clear warning as they are quite evidently very dangerous for the beginer.

That's why I like using the Crank pedals - clipping in is optional if you get the platform type.  I use the Mallets, so starting off uphill is much easier because you don't have to clip in.  Also, I find they release much easier than the SPD type.  Yes - I did use SPD for quite a while when I switched to trail riding on a mountain bike, but took a few tumbles because either I couldn't get my feet out quickly enough, or couldn't clip in when trying to set off on rough, hilly ground.  Simply pushing down on the pedal (SPD) without clipping in was asking for trouble because there was no grip, resulting in feet slipping off the pedal and a raking injury to the shin, in addition to a tumble on rocks or roots.  The Crank platforms give you variable grip depending on how high you set the studs - so your foot can't slip.  If you come to tricky areas, simply unclip and pedal with your feet free - it only involves a small (forward or back) movement of your foot to prevent clipping in again.    I can't recommend them enough - you just have to try them.  Hope you get back on the road soon, but not in direct contact with the black stuff.

32

Gear Talk / Re: Which pedal?

« on: July 28, 2010, 05:53:30 am »

You won't be disappointed.  Enjoy!!

33

Gear Talk / Re: Which pedal?

« on: July 06, 2010, 02:12:54 pm »

Have you thought about "CRANK brothers" pedals?  They are the eggbeater type.  They are excellent for clearing mud, which means you can always get your feet in even in the muddiest conditions (no clogging).  They come in a range of pedal sizes.  You can have just the "eggbeater" mechanism  They're brilliant and I wouldn't use anything else now.  I have much experience of pedals having spent many years with both Look and SPD type pedals.  If I was road racing again I wouldn't use them, but for touring, especially off-road, I can highly recommend them.   This is their web-site  www.crankbrothers.com

Totally agree.  I've been using them exclusively (albeit without the platforms) for all my road riding for 7 years.  I like the recessed cleats, and when with a group we had to walk throught mud for awhile, I was the only one to hop back on and ride.  Everyone else had to take off shoes and work the mud out.

Glad someone else agrees with me.  They are definitely the most versatile pedal I have ever used.  I'm suprised no-one else has mentioned them, especially as they are in the USA.  I'm in the UK, but they have a very good name here.

34

Gear Talk / Re: Which pedal?

« on: July 03, 2010, 04:04:18 am »

Have you thought about "CRANK brothers" pedals?  They are the eggbeater type.  They are excellent for clearing mud, which means you can always get your feet in even in the muddiest conditions (no clogging).  They come in a range of pedal sizes.  You can have just the "eggbeater" mechanism, which is the bit that attaches, or you can have a range of platform sizes around the eggbeater, with studs of whatever length (they are variable)you want on the platforms.  This means you can choose your pedal size.  The big advantage of them is that you can choose whether or not to be clipped in on varying terrain, using them just as platforms, or clip in to be attached.  The eggbeaters do not interfere when using them clipless.  The cleats are recessed, so you can walk in them and also use them flat when not clipped in.  They're brilliant and I wouldn't use anything else now.  I have much experience of pedals having spent many years with both Look and SPD type pedals.  If I was road racing again I wouldn't use them, but for touring, especially off-road, I can highly recommend them.   This is their web-site  www.crankbrothers.com

Hope you find something you like.

35

General Discussion / Re: I need a new bike...Help!

« on: June 25, 2010, 05:14:29 pm »

I spent many years time-trialling and road racing (in the UK) before returning to cycling after a lay-off - (now I'm into mountain bike trail riding).   For training purposes I had a Specialized triple - a brilliant bike which could also be used for racing.  The "granny" ring was useful for training because of the hills I used to include which rarely appeared in time trials.  Specialized bikes are excellent, reasonably priced and should be readily available in the States.    The Specialized Allez Sport Double 2010 Road Bike is an excellent example, equipped with Shimano and Specialized kit - lightweight, versatile and ideally suited to both racing and training.  In the UK it comes up at around £600, so I would think it will be cheaper in the US.

Make sure you get the correct frame size - the stem and seat can be adjusted for reach.
If you are unsure about the size of bike, go to a specialist shop and get fitted - it is crucial to get this right.

Happy bike hunting and racing,
G.

36

Gear Talk / Re: What trailer???

« on: June 18, 2010, 01:01:41 pm »

Thanks for that - I'll look into it.  I used to be a member of the CTC years ago, so I think I'll re-join.  I'm quite interested in the OMM rack system, but also think I would prefer the weight to be on a trailer rather than the bike and I guess you're right in that a couple of kilos won't make a lot of difference.  The weight is on the ground, it's just hauling it up the hills that's going to hurt.

Regards, G

37

Gear Talk / Re: What trailer???

« on: June 13, 2010, 05:41:36 pm »

Thank you very much "Tourista".  The UK one is especially interesting for me - cos I live there.  I've got lots of good stuff to be looking at now.  Regards, G. 

38

Gear Talk / Re: What trailer???

« on: June 12, 2010, 01:28:29 am »

Hey! - What a revelation.  You're a life-saver.  Thanks very much for the info - I had no idea. Panniers would be the ideal for use both at home and abroad.  I could in theory always buy a trailer for use on the Great Divide once I got to USA, then leave it there, although this could be a messy arrangement. I would still need to get gear transported, and the OMM looks really good.  I have already contacted the bike bag shop for their advice.  Many thanks - G

39

Gear Talk / Re: What trailer???

« on: June 11, 2010, 06:36:24 pm »

Hi Tony,

Thank you for your offer - it is very kind of you and I may take you up on it when the time comes.  If I do go on one of the Adv Cyc courses, I could possibly buy kit whilst I am there  -  is it cheaper in the US?  I do have a relative over in WV who could possibly store stuff for me for a while, although at some point I have to have it here as well so transporting across the pond will have to be done eventually.

I have read reviews on Bike Friday - it looks really good, but as you say, probably not suited to rougher terrain.  I suppose an option could be to use one to get to the states, then buy a BOB or similar for the trip, selling it before returning with the Bike Friday.

Anyway - time to plan and think about it.  Thank you again for your offer and thoughts - they are much appreciated.  Good luck with Bike Friday - let me know how it goes.

Kind regards,
Gill

40

Gear Talk / What trailer???

« on: June 11, 2010, 02:55:33 pm »

Hi Everyone,

This is my first post - so hope it's ok.
I have fairly recently switched from road riding (time-trialling etc) to trail riding and have bought a full suspension mountain bike, which I absolutely love to bits.  I have no touring experience (but regularly ride long distances) and intend joining one of Adventure Cycling's touring and back-woods camping courses next year.  Ultimately, I would like to ride the Great Divide, but as I live in the UK, getting to the USA with gear seems pretty daunting at the moment.  As I understand it (please correct me if I'm wrong), I cannot use panniers with a full sus bike, and will need to use a trailer to carry gear.  I have looked at many different trailers on the internet, BOB, Aevon, Adventure, etc and find it hard to make a decision about buying one.  I would appreciate any comments regarding their use from your experiences please.  Has anyone ever used the Aevon Kit L80 trailer - it looks great, but seems very expensive. Also, does anyone have any idea how much it might cost to transport bike and trailer by air?

Thanks

Gill