Topics

1

Gear Talk / Where to get new wheels

« on: May 29, 2006, 11:50:43 am »

The problem: Standard rear spokes keep breaking on commuter bike.  Wheels are WTB Dual Duty XC 700C with 32 stock spokes.  Rider weight is 145 lbs, with light weight saddle bags.  Four broken rear spokes in two years of daily riding.  Average 16 miles per day with occasional tours of 60 miles per day.  Paved roads and bike trails.  No dirt riding.  

Where is good online store for higher spoke count wheels?   Without spending more on wheels than the bike cost, what do you recommend? I figured something with at least 36 stainless spokes.

Bike is a Gary Fisher Nirvana.

2

Gear Talk / Communications during ride

« on: April 13, 2006, 05:56:10 pm »

Has anyone advice on how to have inter-bike commo on trips where we might be separated by a few miles or even a few dozen yards and not in yelling or cell phone coverage (or just not want to make a call)?  The motorcycle guys have some scheme with earpieces and mics and I was wondering if we touring bike riders have a lightweight solution?  Maybe those FRS walkie-talkies?  Anything else not involving tin cans and strings?

3

Gear Talk / Convert 8-speed to 9-speed?

« on: February 20, 2006, 10:21:33 pm »

I have the chance to buy an '05 Novara Randonee.  It comes with an 8-speed rear cassette.  The '06 has 9-speed.  Is it a simple matter to swap the 8-speed for a 9?  Would I need new shifters?  Both years come with Tiagra shifters.  It is quite a bit less expensive than the '06, so spending $50 to make a few changes still leaves me with a bargin.  Any advice?

4

Gear Talk / Importance of Disk Brakes?

« on: February 06, 2006, 03:39:27 pm »

I am looking to buy a new touring bike in the $800-1300 dollar range.  The Trek 520 looks good, but I am not happy with the shifters or brakes.  My wife has done some touring in hilly areas (we live in Virginia) and says brake/rim overheating on long downhills is a real problem.  So, do I opt for something like the Gary Fisher Utopia, with disks, or stick to the Trek?  I have not yet decided on the trailer vs. pannier question either, but I guess if I go with disks I am also voting for the trailer, as none of the disk brake bikes I have seen have the mountings for panniers.  Or is there an alternative for bikes without braze ons?

5

General Discussion / Knee Pain Advice

« on: May 15, 2006, 12:13:34 pm »

I am building up my distance capabilities in order to ride in this year's Bike Virginia in June.  In the past, 20-30 milers were no big problem.  I have done 50 miles with one week breaks in between and both times have finished with moderate pain behind my right knee.  It seems to be originating where the calf muscle attaches behind the knee, not ligament or actual joint pain.  Takes several days to subside.  Left knee is pretty good in comparison.  Average speed is 11.7 mph.  Age - 58.  Generally good shape, no problems walking, hiking or skiing.  Never any prior knee injuries.  This seems totally related to biking.  Have tried extending seat a bit, but was too late on the last ride to help.  Use clipless pedals.  Everything else feels comfy - seating, back position, etc.