Messages

46

General Discussion / Re: DIY Tips

« on: December 21, 2010, 02:11:36 pm »

I found that putting my powdered Gatoraid mix in little baggies -premeasured for my drink bottles-

I use a baby formula container for the same purpose.  I find it pours the powder more cleanly - no waste.

I might add, though I'm not sure it is that original or the type of info being sought; to repair flats.  I cut old tires to about 8-10cm lengths to insert over the hole in the tire until I can replace them.  I find they protect far better and are much faster than using the patch kits.

47

General Discussion / Re: Eating ... not IF, but HOW

« on: December 17, 2010, 06:58:21 am »

http://www.ultracycling.com/nutrition/hyponatremia2.html

I believe the key is understanding how your body works and the healthy, balanced approach to athletic activity.  I'll admit much of what I have learned was at the arm of my chair, and also through a sampling of experience on the road or on the side of a mountain.  That, however, has never stood in the way of my having a fun, safe and healthy time on my bike or climb up a mountain.

Enjoy the ride!

48

General Discussion / Re: Eating ... not IF, but HOW

« on: December 16, 2010, 06:57:43 am »

Gatorade was mentioned, and can be a very helpful source for what you will need while riding.  Keep in mind, though, that it is high in sodium.  While a little extra is good when sweating a bit, a build up through the day of high amounts of sodium can have negative affects as well.  You'd do well to dilute it with water - my preference is 50/50.  I also use the powder form carried in a baby formula container - already measured out, light, and easy to use when on the road.  The powder form also costs a fraction of buying in bottles.  Also, many restaurants will gladly fill your water bottles so you can avoid the restroom sinks, etc...

Enjoy the ride!

49

Gear Talk / Re: Tires ?

« on: December 07, 2010, 08:42:14 am »

John Nelson - I find the GT2 on the commuter and Pro DC on the other.  I also ride a two widths on the tandem (Metro K 35 and Strada 28).

I'm not trying to win the local crit nor am I looking for the least amount of rolling resistance to gain that extra something such things earn us.  Thus, "incredible" for me is simply that I get a good ride on a decent tire for a fraction of the cost as compared to other tires - for me cost is huge.  I used to ride the more expensive tires until my epiphany - a cut tire that cost me $40-$65 set me farther back than one that costs $25, and both did what I needed them to for the 2000 miles I had them.  My "incredible" is just that, mine - perhaps I should have mentioned that.  Other's mileage may vary.

Enjoy the ride!

50

General Discussion / Re: Funny......but not so much fun.

« on: December 04, 2010, 02:21:10 pm »

I use a balaclava and that does a really nice job.  Frequent washings are a must.  You'll also find it is more comfortable when you ride, particularly when the temps drop lower into the 20s and below.

51

Gear Talk / Re: Tires ?

« on: December 03, 2010, 07:21:17 am »

While I have not used the tire you are referencing, I have used a Vittoria folding performance tire 700X23 on my other half bike (Cannondale R600).  I was mildly disappointed.  For the price I expected more.  Oddly I have found similar performance from a similar folding tire made by Performance Bike's house brand Forte for much less cost.  I use Forte 700X25 on my commuting half bike (Trek 1200) and they are incredible.

52

General Discussion / Re: "Off-season" training

« on: December 01, 2010, 02:11:59 pm »

Wow, considering the global reach of this forum we're practically neighbors!  I'm in Harford County, MD.

Do you ride the W&OD ever?  I rode it a couple times years ago.  Can you link up easily to it?  If my memory serves me correctly that should provide at least 70 miles (round trip) of safer surface for you.  One way or the other - be safe and enjoy.

53

General Discussion / Re: "Off-season" training

« on: November 29, 2010, 09:59:52 am »

Agreed, heat and humidity is terrible there.  Rode there this past summer and I thought my heart was going to explode.  We have humidity here in the mid-Atlantic, but not like there.

54

General Discussion / Re: "Off-season" training

« on: November 29, 2010, 07:41:17 am »

It sounds like you live in northern Virginia...  your description fits some parts of this side of the Potomac, but we do have much better shoulders to ride on, etc...

Have you tried just listening to music?  I've never used a video for my trainer time, and don't plan to.  Toss in some good tunes and you can easily have an hour slip by without really noticing it.  Well, it works for me anyway.  Best wishes.

55

Gear Talk / Re: Shaking on the downhills

« on: November 23, 2010, 06:40:16 am »

I'd second the suggestion to check the rack screws to ensure they are tight enough.  We had the kids in a trailer and hit a down hill segment that made the tandem sway in a most disconcerting manner.  Fearing something going seriously wrong my inspection revealed a slight flaw in the hitch attachment.  It was hard to believe such a small flaw could cause such a violent sway, but after easily replacing the offending part all was good.

56

Gear Talk / Re: ToUrIng SHoEs

« on: November 22, 2010, 02:29:28 pm »

I cannot add much, but only reiterate that clipless is THE WAY to go.  Be mindful, though, if you decide to follow counsel on this topic - the selection is important.  Spare no expense (though, not necessary) and exhaust no test fit (be reasonable).  Keep in mind 40% of your contact points with your bike are through your shoes.  I'm not willing to trade that much comfort for bad advice or failing to seek all options.

57

General Discussion / Re: Camping in the east

« on: November 22, 2010, 07:09:33 am »

Is your experience in the west, perhaps, or are you possibly referring to State Forests?

Quite possibly.

58

General Discussion / Re: WHY RIDE A BIKE?????!

« on: November 19, 2010, 01:34:24 pm »

I commute because I get to park my bike in my classroom.  I tell my students 1) I have the clsoest parking spot among the faculty and staff and 2) since I shower when I get here, I'm the cleanest one in the building.

59

General Discussion / Re: Camping in the east

« on: November 19, 2010, 01:31:10 pm »

I suggest planning to stop at state parks.  For a nominal fee (most average $5-$10) you get a good spot, easy access, a shower (check into that, it may vary), and other amenities.  Depending upon your time of year you might be able to get by with flexible reservations depending how popular the park is, etc...  I've done this as far west as Iowa without a problem.  State parks tend to be much closer together the farther east you travel - it might work for you, at least I hope so.  Travel safe and enjoy.