shake down ride

[Badger]

This weekend I loaded my BoB with my camping gear and set off for 30 mile ride just see how to pack and strap things on my bike.  All went well until a hill I started climbing.  I down shifted to my low chain ring and the chain went right over it. I found out I don't balance very well with my feet clipped in.  I also became knowledgable of ditches and the water that runs in them.  Unclipping myself and righting my bike and trailer and mustering up what little dignity I had, I was on my way to finish my ride.  My bike is on my work stand for some adjustment.  I would like to note that everything that was strapped or bungeed stayed where it was suppose to.  For other new adventure cyclist I suggest you try packing and riding and oh yea, stay out of the ditches.

[TwoWheeledExplorer]

Badger and all
That applies to all of us, whether we are world bike travelers, or on our first 30 miles. You have to get ready for biking, just like you had to for skiing or snowshoeing back in November. For instance, I got new panniers over the winter and now I am re-working my weight and balance issues before I try them out. I am also leaning towards a new touring bike this year (See post in "Gear" section.) that's going to require a whole lot'a shakin' down. ;p
So shake it down! But...

Ride safe,
Hans

Hans Erdman, WEMT
Backcountry Trail Patrol-MN
www.trailpatrol.org

[RussellSeaton]

To prevent the dreadful chain drop onto the bottom bracket shell when shifting into the inner chainring, get a chain watcher device.  Third Eye Chain Watcher, Deda Dog Fang, Redline Chain Watcher, N-Gear Jump Stop.

My ride shakedown for a summer long tour of Europe in 1992 was to put the four panniers on the Trek 520, put a gallon of water in each pannier, and ride about 15 miles to test the handling.  That was the only bike riding I did before the tour that year.  Having ridden many miles in previous years, I knew the physical challenges of riding all day were nothing to worry about.

[cyclesafe]

I took my brand new Americano out for an unloaded test ride this morning and experienced chain drop when shifting (over-shifting) to the smallest chain ring.  I was ready for it though, and disengaged in time.  I'll get the LBS to readjust the front derailleur, but I also ordered a Jump Stop from N-Gear for insurance.

Good reviews at MTBreview.com
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Chain_Accessories/product_20650.shtml

http://www.n-gear.com/