Messages

1

General Discussion / Re: importance of componentry

« on: July 28, 2014, 03:37:21 pm »

Something that has not been mentioned is the 'trickle down' effect through Shimano's product lines. Significant improvements start at the top (Dura Ace, XTR), and trickle down to the 'lower' product lines over time. This year's 105 is last year's Dura Ace, etc. Seeing as how Shimano has been doing this awhile, even the Deore/Tiagra level stuff is pretty damn good.

I've always been suspicious of those who attribute huge perfomance increases to Dura Ace/XTR over the more modest component sets. I wonder if it is a function of knowing how much they paid for those components and expecting a big return in performance. I use a mix of low- to mid-level Shimano componentry on my bikes (mostly Deore/Lx/XT/Tiagra), and never have any complaints about function. More $ gets you lighter and blingier components, but the Shimano component performance is good across the line.

Final thought: I just installed $20 Microshift deraillers with ancient Suntour friction shifters on my LHT, and the shifting is crisp and precise. Knowhing how to install, set up, and maintain shifting systems will get you more happy miles than simply buying the bling.

2

Gear Talk / Re: First Touring Bike

« on: January 23, 2014, 11:06:28 pm »

. I rode the 60cm Long Haul and it felt awesome. I loved riding it and thought from a fit perspective that it was great.

You answered your own question right there.  It won't be any bigger or fit any different once it's loaded.   BTW, the 26" wheel LHT are limited to the smaller frame sizes and a 60 cm isn't one of them.

Incorrecto. 26" wheels available up to 62 cm...From Surly's website...The standard Long Haul Trucker is compatible with good ol’ rim brakes, and it’s available as a frameset and as a complete bike, with 26˝ wheels in 42–62cm frame sizes, and with 700c wheels in 56–64cm.

3

Gear Talk / Re: Full coverage helmets

« on: January 23, 2014, 04:01:01 pm »

I like my Bern. It's been in daily use since last summer. Seems silly, but I really like the visor/forehead pad system. It is a bit hot in the summertime, and this summer I will return to a more traditional vented helmet, and save the Bern for dirt rides and cold weather.

4

Gear Talk / Re: First Touring Bike

« on: January 23, 2014, 03:50:20 pm »

Agree with all of the above, fit is paramount. That said, if the LHT fits right and 'feels awesome', go for it!

Regarding handling and stability of the LHT...I've been riding one as my do-all since 2009, and it handles great with a load. Arguably better than unloaded. Long wheel base and slack angles are very very stable and predictable.

One option to consider: you can get the LHT with 26" wheels instead of 700c if you wish. This would bring the overall height of the bike down considerably, as well as effectively lower the bottom bracket height, which will greatly improve stability. Also, Jan Heine argues that 26" wheels are optimal for fatter tires (say, over 38mm), but there are limited premium tire choices in 26" (Schwalbe Marathon Supremes notwithstanding). No doubt that 26-inch wheels are stronger than 700c, all things being equal.

If the LHT fits and feels right, I cannot imagine you will regret the decision.

5

Routes / Re: Sacramento-Auburn, CA route advice please.

« on: November 19, 2013, 03:13:35 pm »

I actually think the AR bikeway is your best bet. Folsom Boulevard is indeed a straight shot, but with stoplights and such it will likely be slower. And a very long slog to Folsom. This time of year there is less ped/bike traffic on the bikeway, and it will be an altogether more pleasant experience.

Then, once you get to Folsom, Auburn-Folsom Road is a straight shot into Auburn with wide shoulder and good sight lines. There is a moderate climb into Auburn proper.

There are alternatives along the 80 corridor, but none of them pleasant. The riding does not get friendly until Roseville or so.

Sounds like a fun day!

6

General Discussion / Re: Best frame for riding and light tours on mixed gravel & pavement

« on: August 15, 2013, 02:03:46 pm »

If you are simply trying to eliminate heel strike, you might consider altering your rack/bag choices...

- How about the awesome frame bags and such from Revelate Designs? Pretty cool for off-road, minimalist applications.

- OR using a rando/saddlebag combo. I just added the boxy rando and large saddlebag from Acorn, and after recovering from the sticker shock, I find I now have 14 L of cargo space before I even consider my panniers.

- OR use a rack like the Tubus Cargo Evo that has the lower mounting rails that are pushed a bit aft, specifically to eliminate heel strike.

But perhaps you are looking to justify a new bike. Believe me, I understand. I vote for the Space Horse. I think that looks like a swell all-rounder.