Adventure pushies

[NordieBoy]

Turners flows?
Turners is full of straights and those funny downhill hairpin things you walk around.


Looks like the Top Gun XC race is going to be...
Up Sharlands, down Waterloo, What the DoCtor Ordered and Willow Lane, up Sharlands, down Waterloo...

A little repetitive and that climb will be soul destroying on the 3rd lap...

By my guesstimate, that's an 8km long, 512m gain, climb.
Each lap...

[NordieBoy]

I've been taking some slow release sucrose/gelatin capsules with me on my rides into Richmond. I didn't today. Got 2/3's of the way to Big Skid and bonked. Not so much fun after that.

[Willdat?]

Still a pretty serious ride! I rode out to Wakefield and back with Luca on the back this week...

[NordieBoy]

Yeah, 50km with the Richmond Hills in the middle...
Ride for an hour to get to the hills, ride for an hour in the hills, ride home for an hour...
Max cruising speed on the flat of 20kph...

Seems more like dehydration than bonking now. Not enough to drink before starting the ride.

But next time I'm taking a pocket full of gummy bears, ah, sucrose/gelatine capsules :shifty:

Also broke one of my bar ends :(
Hit a bump with my weight on the end and it moved, did it up too tight and stripped the thread :weird:
It's a bugger riding with one bar end...

Picked up some cool Zero Team Carbon Bar Ends. Meh. They might be nice and ergo for someone, but not me. They'll do though.

[nzspokes]

Just to show I do ride it from time to time. Riverhead is still great riding.

In a sap your soul kinda way.

[R650R]

Yeah, 50km with the Richmond Hills in the middle...
Ride for an hour to get to the hills, ride for an hour in the hills, ride home for an hour...
Max cruising speed on the flat of 20kph...

Seems more like dehydration than bonking now. Not enough to drink before starting the ride.

But next time I'm taking a pocket full of gummy bears, ah, sucrose/gelatine capsules :shifty:

Also broke one of my bar ends :(
Hit a bump with my weight on the end and it moved, did it up too tight and stripped the thread :weird:
It's a bugger riding with one bar end...

Picked up some cool Zero Team Carbon Bar Ends. Meh. They might be nice and ergo for someone, but not me. They'll do though.

You need to eat right leading up to bigger longer rides too. Your body uses its reserves faster than they can be replenished.
I usually take a magnesium tablet (has other minerals added to) before a ride.
Forget the technical names but your muscles have a store of some sort of sugar/fat/energy that only lasts an hour or so no matter how fit you are and once depleted cant be fully replenished on the move.
When I was doing longer hours and didn't have time to eat properly prior I used various protein/carb powder meal stuff and found it very effective for the body being able to exercise longer.
Some of those gels are good but they are only ever a temporary boost.
Have a coffee to, the caffeine helps the body metabolise fat reserves into energy.

I've been drinking less water lately as camel back bladder broken and have been fine except for inconvenience of stopping to drink from a bottle. Firefighter mate reckons they got taught that your stomach can only absorb 200ml of water an hour no matter how dehydrated you are. This is kind of backed up by the top XC riders who will only use 600ml or less water in a 2-3 hour race.

[NordieBoy]

Most studies say about 1-2 600ml bottles per hour for normal exercise and up to 4 in hot conditions.
You can also lose water at the rate of 1.8L per hour via sweating and breathing.

I usually get through 600ml in a 2hr race if it's not hot and 2 bottles otherwise.
Training, I get through a bottle an hour as it's easier to remember to drink every 10min.

[NordieBoy]

Finally did the Richmond XC track yesterday. Now I know which turn to take it makes more sense.
Almost did Terminus without walking and only walked twice on Bermed Monster. Escalator was relatively easy(ish).

Now to ride it with some speed!

[NordieBoy]

By my guesstimate, that's an 8km long, 512m gain, climb.
Each lap...

Ah, actually only about 4km :doh:

Piss easy :confused:

[NordieBoy]

Just reading a little of Tour De France history.
Almost as tough as the Richmond Hills in the rain...


Tour de France Stage 10: Bayonne – Luchon, 326 km
Tuesday, July 6th, 1926

At 5,745 km The 17 stage, 1926 Tour de France was the longest in history and its Stage 10 had just about everything you could imagine in a bike race and has long been noted as the toughest stage in Tour de France history. Here are some brief highlights of this epic stage in one of the most epic editions of the Tour in history.

Length: Yeah, you read right, 326km (202.5 miles). To put that in perspective in 2013 the longest stage on tap for the Tour is 242 km (150 miles), professional racers will be on 15 pound bikes with 11 speed drivetrains, racing on fully paved roads, with team cars, radios, bike swaps, etc., In 1926 racers would have been atop 30+ pound singlespeed bikes and pretty much on their own for repairs, etc.,

Of the 126 riders who started the 1926, 82 were non-sponsored independents. Only 41 racers would finish the ’26 Tour. By the way, while the 326 km is damn long, it was not actually the longest stage in 1926, that honor belonged to the flat, 433 km Stage 3: Metz to Dunkirk.

Climbs: Racers would ascend over 19,500 feet as they climbed a route called the “circle of death” which contained the Col d’Ousqich, Col d’Aubisque, Cirque du Litor, Col du Soulor, Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aspin and Col de Peyresourde. Keep in mind at this time most– if not all– of the mountain roads were dirt and the foul weather turned many of them to wheel sucking mud as the stage wore on.

Weather: Because the distance and the climbing wasn’t enough of a hell for the racers to deal with, Stage 10 also contained heavy rain, thunder, lightning, sleet, wind, below freezing temperatures and icy mountain fog. Sick.

Start Time: Unlike the Tour of today with start times in the late morning to afternoon, Stage 10 of the 1926 Tour would have riders starting at 2 a.m. in the morning. Not sure what sort of crowd they had for the send off or how many silly sponsor vehicles lead the riders over the passes. It also unknown (but highly doubted) if the racers utilized high powered L.E.D. lights to guide themselves through the dark hours of the race as we happily do today.

A Race: For most, it would be enough just to survive or finish such as stage, but the fact is, this was the Tour de-freaking France… not just a race, THE race! And race they did. Gustaaf Van Slembrouck started the day in the yellow jersey, 22 minutes down on him was the Belgian Lucien Buysse and on this day Buysse was not to be denied. Not only did he battle the elements and the climbs but he also found the energy and the will to put in multiple attacks on a small lead group of rivals in the mountains. Finally he opened up a gap on the Col de Peyresourde that stuck and crossed the line in Luchon, taking the Stage 10 victory in a time of 15 Hours, 12 minutes and 4 seconds and the yellow jersey. Odile Taillieu would finish 36 minutes 14 seconds behind him.

[nzspokes]

Anybody want a pair of brand new 27.5 wheels with DT rims and 6 bolt? Will go on TM over the weekend.

$300

[NordieBoy]

Anybody want a pair of brand new 27.5 wheels with DT rims and 6 bolt? Will go on TM over the weekend.

$300

Hmmm, there's room in the corner of the Emporium and I don't have any 650b wheels yet...
Or a 650b bike...

[nzspokes]

Hmmm, there's room in the corner of the Emporium and I don't have any 650b wheels yet...
Or a 650b bike...

More than a few fitting them to 26" frames. Not that I would know anything about that.

[nzspokes]

Oh and they are 12x142 rear and 15mm front.

[NordieBoy]

More than a few fitting them to 26" frames. Not that I would know anything about that.
That's the idea with the Stumpy hard tail. They fit in the rear, but...
I'd have to get new forks, the RockShox SID's definitely don't work.

Oh and they are 12x142 rear and 15mm front.
Well that makes the decision easier...
Everything I've got is 9mm QR.

[nzspokes]

That's the idea with the Stumpy hard tail. They fit in the rear, but...
I'd have to get new forks, the RockShox SID's definitely don't work.

Well that makes the decision easier...
Everything I've got is 9mm QR.

I might be able to convert them..........

I know a guy.....

[NordieBoy]

I might be able to convert them..........

I know a guy.....
Swap them for a pair of Merida Big9 wheels? :D

[nzspokes]

Swap them for a pair of Merida Big9 wheels? :D

:laugh:

I dont need more wheels. Got hundreds as it is.

[Paul in NZ]

#$%^ It...

With all this dry weather the ground is as hard as a terrorists heart...... I'm getting more punctures than usual. Last night 200M from home so I just bunged in the spare tube and kept going. It seemed to be loosing air on a split on the inside (rim side) that looked more like a manufacturing fault but probably not worth the risk of patching...

All fixed and we pedalled on - I did warn Vicki that there was loose sand forming in the previously hard sections of the track but she saw me ride over it and thought she would do that too.... The was a thump, a cloud of dust, a horrible anguish vocal lady type noise followed by a lot of unlady like noises. Ooops....... A fair bit of bark missing but she rode home ;-)

[NordieBoy]

Yeah. Parched ground, today it rains a little, tomorrow forecast for the same and the XC race is tomorrow...
There's not really any flattish rock areas so traction should be pretty good.

I've got dry condition tyres (Specialized Fasttrak) on the bike. My stash of tubeless 29'er tyres (2.25" Ardent and 2.2" and 2.35" Ikon's) for the rest of the year hasn't arrived yet :(

Got heaps of 26" tyres of course. Including unused Maxxis Ikon and 4 x new Specialized Renegade's.

Just off out for a little cruise to stretch the legs on the cyclocross bike...

I'm feeling good. May even pass someone tomorrow :Punk:

[Kickaha]

I've got dry condition tyres (Specialized Fasttrak) on the bike.

people have different tyres for different conditions? fucking hell I have one size fits all on my bike

[NordieBoy]

The current tyres are a bit narrow for the rigid bike, so the Ikon on the rear and Ardent front should be pretty much on all year round.

[XF650]

I went for my annual mountain bike ride yesterday.
You guys are nuts....

[NordieBoy]

I went for my annual mountain bike ride yesterday.
You guys are nuts....
Don't you drive around in the high country in a 4 wheel Briggs & Stratton?

Madness!

[NordieBoy]

Yeah. Parched ground, today it rains a little, tomorrow forecast for the same and the XC race is tomorrow...

I've got dry condition tyres (Specialized Fasttrak) on the bike.

I'm feeling good. May even pass someone tomorrow :Punk:

It was wet, very wet.
The tyres did well, very well.
I passed someone!

I actually passed her 3 times on the climb and she passed me twice on the descent :D

[Night Falcon]

It was wet, very wet.
The tyres did well, very well.
I passed someone!

I actually passed her 3 times on the climb and she passed me twice on the descent :D

Nice work Nordie

incredible isn't it, how modern men are not intimidated when bested by girly girls :cry: being antiquated, I still have issues with it..... all the time :baby:

[NordieBoy]

Nice work Nordie

incredible isn't it, how modern men are not intimidated when bested by girly girls :cry: being antiquated, I still have issues with it..... all the time :baby:
She WAS on a long travel enduro'ey bike, but I'll take the win.
Although in the results, she bet me by 2 seconds.
Interesting how that could happen when i managed to finally keep ahead of her on the last downhill and she finished 2s behind ME at the end.

[Night Falcon]

Interesting how that could happen when i managed to finally keep ahead of her on the last downhill and she finished 2s behind ME at the end.

strange things happen around women - just pays to go with it in my experience :shifty:

[NordieBoy]

strange things happen around women - just pays to go with it in my experience :shifty:

I can take solace in the fact I got 2nd in the single speed class and won the single speed rigid class.

If they actually HAD either of those classes...

I DID get 2nd out of 5 in the 40-49 age group though.

I think I rode pretty consistently overall...

Lap Climb Descent Total
1 13:36 11:03 24:39
2 16:11 10:46 26:57
3 15:39 11:12 26:51
4 15:39 10:48 26:27

I think it was down to pre-race day nutrition/hydration rather than training though.
:shifty:Mmmm, nutrition...

[Padmei]

Good going. I went for a ride up third house while you were doing that. I think someone has snuck in & attached extra bits of track in there as it seemed to go on longer & longer
Did you know that when it rains constantly upon very dry ground the track becomes a river? I had nice wet warm socks & my tyres made a shizzzzzzsssszing noise all the way down.
Oh & I drowned my phone too - 3rd one gone that way. Funnily enough it was almost a year to the day I killed my last phone- that one was from a security scanner in an airport.

[NordieBoy]

Coppermine race is on the 14th, after the Urban XC at Nelson Boys on the evening of the 11th.

I'm going to give the Epic a go. I'll probably get last, but I'll beat everyone that doesn't do it :D
Don't like the front steps at the Urban XC. Done it once on the CX bike and one on the full suspension Blur. Rigid single speed this time...

[NordieBoy]

Yeah, I was having to throttle back a little yesterday on the downhill so I wouldn't get as much watery, muddy, crap in my eyes.
I wrap my phone in a micro fiber cloth and then in a zip lock bag.

The descent from 3rd House back to the Brook is a good one.

On the way up, you're passing young things on cheap bikes laughing and smiling on their way back down and you just want to push them off and laugh manically as you watch them tumble down the hillside.
But you don't, because you're made of sterner stuff, and it would take to much effort anyway.

Then on the way back down, you laugh and smile at the grumpy old people riding up :D

[NordieBoy]

The Old Ghost Road is starting to look verra interesting...

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/07/4e8b09a1ab6753e30e3685f8727afbd1.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/07/1da456dbea1bbb496ef2409ff2158b77.jpg

[Brainflex]

That does look good. Gonna have to work out how to get away from home to ride that.

[Padmei]

The collateral damage from my ride in the rain the other week continues... Brake pads jammed onto the disc - had to be levered back. Bottom bracket really stiff & hard to turn. Worst of all my old wind up watch has stopped with water droplets visible on the glass:weep:

[NordieBoy]

Do they have any watchmakery people left in Nelson?

[Scubbo]

probably been posted elsewhere - but someone has pretty much motorized a mountainbike

http://www.fxbikes.com/



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeoMLAmfR_k

[Dave h]

Yeh Boi!!

Hopefully he's doing his course previews this year as well :)

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[Padmei]

in a couple of weeks
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CgcYUcC4LJE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[NordieBoy]

in a couple of weeks

Just no ghost riding the bike on the ghost road...

Ghost chips anyone?

That's one of my must do rides...

[NordieBoy]

Saw a track on Google Earth and though it link up nicely with my Pigeon Valley South loops.
An hour and a half of bush bashing through old gorse, blackberry, steep climbs, steep descents, I got back on the track and back out...

It might have linked up. In the past. The dim distant past. When dinosaurs roamed Gondwanaland. Not now though...

I am no longer to be known as "Gorse Boy".
"Blackberry Boy" has a certain ring to it...

Note to self, if the blackberry is covering the entire track and is around 2m tall, maybe that's a hint you shouldn't try going through it...

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/28/a2d00a5a25adcdbdf9fb3d9bd7911e56.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/28/c3b4c321765ac092ee0be8cfcbba2c72.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/28/402fec487804a401134a650b433b30f7.jpg

[Padmei]

Ouchies! You can't seem to go past the old overgrown tracks can you?:no:

Well after I rode my bike the other week in the rain storm I have noticed a few things wrong. Front wheel bearings are binding, bottom bracket stiff, a few creaks & groans (from the bike). Took it to the doctor & he said I was prob up to about $500 for maintenance (Specialized pivot bearings are expensive & time consuming apparently) Bum. I think I'll just have to ride it till they flog out & it becomes a hardtail.
I did have a look at his electric MTbs tho - quite cool. The one with the Yamaha motor is about a grand cheaper than the Bosch motored one. I asked why the Bosch one was more expensive & he looked at me with one of those 'your dumb' looks & said "it's made in Germany"
I had to have a lil chuckle about that.

[NordieBoy]

Tom Sharland really likes his Haibike electric fully. Says it's more stable than his Lapierre Zesty.

Or just get a fat bike...
<iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/120566398" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Willdat?]

I did have a look at his electric MTbs tho - quite cool. The one with the Yamaha motor is about a grand cheaper than the Bosch motored one. I asked why the Bosch one was more expensive & he looked at me with one of those 'your dumb' looks & said "it's made in Germany"
I had to have a lil chuckle about that.

I've had a reasonable play on a Bosch powered Scott E-Aspect 920 (my parents have a pair of them) and they are incredibly good fun. The way that it responds to the effort you put in makes the throttle control quite intuitive. In NZ they only give you a boost to 25 km/h which is pretty sensible. I climbed Collingwood St at 25km/h on XC tyres...

[NordieBoy]

Been playing some more with my new Park Tools TM1 spoke tension thingy.
7th wheel (26er front) tuned up with good tension and good lateral and reasonable radial runout.
The 29er wheels all tuned up really well.
I'm doing them all to 110kgf on the tight side with a tyre mounted and pumped up.

Tonight's Mavic 717 XC rim was about 120kgf so I've dropped that to 110.

Measured my Roval race 26er wheels and they're all over the place and really low. Catch with them is some of the nipples are already damaged on the flats.

[NordieBoy]

Widdershins and Involution are, just, wow.

Wouldn't want to walk up Involution pushing a bike.

[R650R]

Anyone might be interested in a 1 year old Rock Shox stealth dropper post.... rebuilt or rebuild yourself??? Will be going in trademe anyway at some stage once replacement (Not a rock shox) installed.... :)
Also have rebuilt non stealth reverb on other bike 80% functional that can get its marching orders too....

[NordieBoy]

What post diameter?

[R650R]

31.6mm like most 'Merican stuff with their imperial perversions...

Installing the Thomson Covert was pretty straight forward, rostered day off today so got short test ride in, very happy :)

[NordieBoy]

Damn.
1x30.9 and 5x27.2 here

[NordieBoy]

Wouldn't mind a couple of Thomson Elite 27.2 droppers.
But they cost more than my bikes.

[Paul in NZ]

I are a real mountain biker....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozRiUIF39F0

Feck....

Fuller vid here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3dbyRVmguo

[Padmei]

Ouch. That small rock was just enough to throw his weight too far forward. Shows how easy major damage could happen on a easy bike ride aye.
Where was that? Scenery looked good.

[Paul in NZ]

Ouch. That small rock was just enough to throw his weight too far forward. Shows how easy major damage could happen on a easy bike ride aye.
Where was that? Scenery looked good.

Nah - that was me filmed by my 'mate'.... Just the dry creek loop in the Belmont hills above the Hutt Valley. There was a very nasty little wheel eating ditch just there and we were discussing the next obstacle 500m on never figuring that one was the real horror... It was pretty funny at the time... I should have gone at an angle 300mm either side of where I hit. 29'rs don't roll over everything eh....

Full account #1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3dbyRVmguo

and #2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2eDWJMXnmY

[NordieBoy]

Ouch. That small rock was just enough to throw his weight too far forward. Shows how easy major damage could happen on a easy bike ride aye.
Where was that? Scenery looked good.
Yeah, it's the potential OTB's that give me the most shits.

I've just got to get more confidence. Just pretend it's the DR and wheelie over that sort of thing.

Pulled the front Maxxis Ardent and put an Ikon on today.
Considerably lighter and was very noticeable on the climbs.
After the ride I hooked up rear and down tube splash guards to keep the drink bottles free of mud.

Should have done it before the ride really...


Mmmm, mud.

[Kickaha]

I made a bad mistake this weeked, we did a 23.3 km loop up and around the Port Hills and for a small portion of it I rode my mates Specialized something or other full suspension 29 inch thingy and now I want one

I'm thinking my 14 year old Azonic hardtail will be getting replaced this year

[nzspokes]

I are a real mountain biker....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozRiUIF39F0

Feck....

Fuller vid here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3dbyRVmguo

Way to much weight on the front wheel, but you worked that out. Google how to Manual and learn that. Once you have Manuals down it all gets much easier.

[R650R]

Fitted High Roller II 2.4 on front, looks lot better than the original design which never worked for me on smaller sizes. Waiting for weather to clear to try out, very soft rubber on side blocks.

[R650R]

Couple rides in an happy with new tyre. Never liked the original in 26 but new redesign and in 650B is working well.

http://singletrackworld.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2011/07/FreshGoods-0224-640x426.jpg

[Paul in NZ]

Way to much weight on the front wheel, but you worked that out. Google how to Manual and learn that. Once you have Manuals down it all gets much easier.

Yup - silly I know but I just looked at the ditch and thought where the heck did that come from and its way nastier then one would expect LOL...

When I first got that bike I was lifting the front around every uphill switchback so I put a longer stem on and dropped the bars. That solved that issue but I think I'm too far forward now. Bar height is good but need to bring them back in a bit...

[Paul in NZ]

Oh - we dropped into a bike shop to look at some phat bikes... Not sure why but I fancy one... Vicki took a ride on a Liv Lust advanced 2 and boom - budget blown to shit..... She looks 'right' on it though... I'm very muchly jealous...

I looked at this on TM... http://www.trademe.co.nz/sports/cycling/mountain-bikes/other/auction-873649086.htm Chinese knock off fat bike? 6 speed cluster on the back seems to be a bit light so beach only I suspect

[Willdat?]

http://www.mtbtrailstrust.org.nz/Beebys-Red-Hills-Track

Website is down at the moment, but this is an epic new trail near new Nelson - I don't think it's going to handle a lot of traffic so I'd get in sooner rather than later, 26% descent on moss probably not the most durable track material...

[NordieBoy]

Website is finally up again. Looks good. Need to build a bike carrier for the DR.

[Padmei]

http://www.mtbtrailstrust.org.nz/Beebys-Red-Hills-Track

Website is down at the moment, but this is an epic new trail near new Nelson - I don't think it's going to handle a lot of traffic so I'd get in sooner rather than later, 26% descent on moss probably not the most durable track material...

Looks like there has been a hell of a lot of track building going on that I haven't known about. Perfect weather at the mo for Heaphy/ ghost rd/ Queen charlotte type epics.
Couple of mates did the St James a few weeks ago- all went well till one of them remembered they had left the keys for the 'end of track' car back in the 'start of track' car.


Those of you who have done the Heaphy last year, which hut did you choose to overnight in? Which is the best one?

[Willdat?]

Looks like there has been a hell of a lot of track building going on that I haven't known about. Perfect weather at the mo for Heaphy/ ghost rd/ Queen charlotte type epics.
Couple of mates did the St James a few weeks ago- all went well till one of them remembered they had left the keys for the 'end of track' car back in the 'start of track' car.


Those of you who have done the Heaphy last year, which hut did you choose to overnight in? Which is the best one?

I've done the Heaphy twice since its been open, once last year and once in 2011. Both times we've done the cruisy Perry Saddle and Heaphy hut two nighter. If you can get away early from Nelson - pre dawn/ over night in Golden Bay you could definitely get further. But it's almost midday by the time you get riding otherwise.

Two major tips - backpack is best as dry bags get destroyed. (but I've got a carrier suitable for full sus if you want to borrow it)

And the second is carry a spare derailleur/hanger, both trips have involved a group member single speeding all or most of the way!

[Padmei]

Thanks for the info will. Prob look at getting flown to Browns & back from karamea. i did it 20 years or so ago before it was gazetted. Did the 2 day option but would prob prefer doing the overnighter.

I know what you mean about hangers - it is always the one that doesn't bother about carrying a spare that breaks one.

[Willdat?]

Thanks for the info will. Prob look at getting flown to Browns & back from karamea. i did it 20 years or so ago before it was gazetted. Did the 2 day option but would prob prefer doing the overnighter.

I know what you mean about hangers - it is always the one that doesn't bother about carrying a spare that breaks one.

Will be interesting to know what that flight is worth. I've flown back from Karamea - much better than driving!

[R650R]

Todays ride

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0NXe246IFdvdDdGbHJFT1JuQW8/view?usp=sharing

[Padmei]

Just got a new smart phone. Was talking the other day to a couple of guys about tracks. One had Strava which showed the tracks, segments etc which I have downloaded onto the phone. Another had a topo map type one that also showed tracks. Does anyone know what one that would be - looked quite good.

[Willdat?]

Just got a new smart phone. Was talking the other day to a couple of guys about tracks. One had Strava which showed the tracks, segments etc which I have downloaded onto the phone. Another had a topo map type one that also showed tracks. Does anyone know what one that would be - looked quite good.

Map my ride?

Two of the coolest things I've found with Strava

http://labs.strava.com/heatmap/#12/173.22841/-41.40692/yellow/bike

Especially good if you're riding somewhere unfamiliar

http://www.jonathanokeeffe.com/strava/map.php?whichAthlete=own&startDate=08%2F01%2F2014&endDate=01%2F23%2F2015&width=3&opacity=100&lat=-41.334203&lng=173.238182&zoom=12&autoZoom=3&mapType=satellite

This one is great for spotting if tracks that you ride might get close to linking up...

[Padmei]

How do I get the tracks to show up on the phone? Do i have to ride somewhere 1st then it shows up or open up that link each time on my phone?

[Gremlin]

I'm playing with OruxMaps on Android, and you can load the NZOGPS .img map files onto your mobile.

You can't route, but you can record tracks, get your position, and everything in the map is there.

[Willdat?]

How do I get the tracks to show up on the phone? Do i have to ride somewhere 1st then it shows up or open up that link each time on my phone?

The second link is an after the ride checking tool. To use strava as a guide/route planner you need to be a Premium member like Fran...

[Padmei]

I'm playing with OruxMaps on Android, and you can load the NZOGPS .img map files onto your mobile.

You can't route, but you can record tracks, get your position, and everything in the map is there.

Cool thanks will check it out


The second link is an after the ride checking tool. To use strava as a guide/route planner you need to be a Premium member like Fran...

Ahhh ok thanks. looking like a mission to ghost road may be on next week.:clap:

[NordieBoy]

The second link is an after the ride checking tool. To use strava as a guide/route planner you need to be a Premium member like Fran...

And I can only download a ride as a GPX file. Not a segment.
There's some segments I want to download and put onto my Oregon GPS but can't :(

[NordieBoy]

Looking like a mission to ghost road may be on next week.:clap:
You know there's no ghosts there right?

Or have I just spoiled the ride for you?

[Willdat?]

You know there's no ghosts there right?

Or have I just spoiled the ride for you?

I could be keen on a ghost road ride if anyone wanted someone to ride with...

[Padmei]

You know there's no ghosts there right?

Or have I just spoiled the ride for you?

Just cos you can't see them doesn'y mean they're not there.

There's a spare seat in the wagon if you want a ride there & back. You wouldn't be able to pedal with me tho cos I hate people ridng & chatting while I'm trying to keep my fufu valve from errupting

[NordieBoy]

You'll need someone that knows how to read a gps so you don't miss a turn.
Not suggesting that you're directionally challenged at all, but, you know how it is when you start concentrating on your fufu valve.
Next thing, the music stops, you look up, and you're half way along the Heaphy.

[Padmei]

You'll need someone that knows how to read a gps so you don't miss a turn.
Not suggesting that you're directionally challenged at all, but, you know how it is when you start concentrating on your fufu valve.
Next thing, the music stops, you look up, and you're half way along the Heaphy.

Hey!:mad: The first time was a mistake ok - the second time was also a mistake but I had learnt how to make it look intentional by then:facepalm:

[Brian d marge]

Adventure cycling

went from Tokyo to Kyoto along the nakasendo way ( had to give up due to the depth of snow and change to the coastal route )

[NordieBoy]

Snow doesn't look all that deep.
Motegi?

[Brian d marge]

Snow doesn't look all that deep.
Motegi?
about 40 k outside of Kyoto .....311583

I have no Idea why this picture uploads upside down...but ya get the idea

Have worn out 3 bikes now , from touring here .....Thinking about Australia next

Stephen

[NordieBoy]

Going to wear out Australia?

[Brian d marge]

Going to wear out Australia?

For king and country


then NZ

Stephen

[Padmei]

Tried my new Maxxiz hi roller II out today. Very very good tyre. The side walls are heaps tuffer than the original ones as they are tubeless ready. I guess that means I can run lower pressure & not puncture as much.
Got them from pushies on trademe from aussie for $45.00 free postage in NZ. Almost a 1/3rd cheaper than T7.

[NordieBoy]

Got my Ikon's and Ardent's from Pushies.

[NordieBoy]

Also, Bermed Monster needs to be renamed "Bermed, Rutted Monster".
Escalator isn't much better.

[Willdat?]

Also, Bermed Monster needs to be renamed "Bermed, Rutted Monster".
Escalator isn't much better.

Shocking at the moment, Slippery Rail and Hang 10 are relatively smooth. There's a working bee issue with TDC and the new health and safety laws...

[Paul in NZ]

looking like a mission to ghost road may be on next week.:clap:

Jealous much..... argh...

[NordieBoy]

Took it easy today, cruised the flat bits, recovered where I could, walked some bits and got 3-4 Strava PB's.
Oh and Icetech rotors still get bloody hot and squeal until you take pity on your eardrums and turn some water into steam.

[Padmei]

Also, Bermed Monster needs to be renamed "Bermed, Rutted Monster".
Escalator isn't much better.

Yes I thought it may be like that. That's why I went up 3rd house yesterday. Working bees are good. They have pushed another trtack thru the bottom of lower firball across codgers down to the ok corral road.


Jealous much..... argh...

Well hopefully the weather may improve from what's forecast but yes am looking forward to doing a ride I've heard so much about. Most people I've talked to have done the helibike option - why would anyone want to miss out on 5 1/2 hrs of uphill?

[NordieBoy]

Took it easy today, cruised the flat bits, recovered where I could, walked some bits and got 3-4 Strava PB's.
11 Strava PB's!

[NordieBoy]

Sunday is the first cyclocross of the season! Weather should be fine.
Mud should be plentiful...

[Paul in NZ]

Well hopefully the weather may improve from what's forecast but yes am looking forward to doing a ride I've heard so much about. Most people I've talked to have done the helibike option - why would anyone want to miss out on 5 1/2 hrs of uphill?

Um..... cough - no idea really...

I'd be interested in knowing if the drop off's are as dramatic as the go pro footage makes them seem? I had vertigo just looking at them...

[Kickaha]

Had to drop the van off at the panel shop today so took the day off and decided to ride home, first road ride I've done in a long time, fingers and toes were going a bit numb due to the cold for a bit but 28.2km averaging 21.8kmh, the first 20km was a bit fatser but a change of direction and wind meant the last 8km were a bit harder work
Not sure I like that traffic zipping past at 100kmh though especially the larger stuff

[NordieBoy]

Shocking at the moment, Slippery Rail and Hang 10 are relatively smooth. There's a working bee issue with TDC and the new health and safety laws...
Bermed Monster working bee Monday.

[NordieBoy]

Cyclocross race 2 tomorrow at the stockcar track :)

[R650R]

Sold the Reverb Stealth carcass... Now one of my Nite lights brand lights failed (battery). Had good run but they no longer available.
Looked at options for few weeks then pulled the pin on an Exposure Diablo 6. Very lightweight, burntime bit shy of previous lights but hell is it an awesome spread of light.
1300 lumens, other light was 900 and more of a spot type beam.

Thursady night test run in 8 degrees at start of Rocket trail :) Phone photo so doesn't show beam throw very well.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0NXe246IFdvSm11ZktEZDlYWDA/view?usp=sharing

[Willdat?]

Sold the Reverb Stealth carcass... Now one of my Nite lights brand lights failed (battery). Had good run but they no longer available.
Looked at options for few weeks then pulled the pin on an Exposure Diablo 6. Very lightweight, burntime bit shy of previous lights but hell is it an awesome spread of light.
1300 lumens, other light was 900 and more of a spot type beam.

Thursady night test run in 8 degrees at start of Rocket trail :) Phone photo so doesn't show beam throw very well.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0NXe246IFdvSm11ZktEZDlYWDA/view?usp=sharing

http://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-1800Lum-CREE-XM-L-T6-LED-Bicycle-Bike-Light-HeadLight-Headlamp-Torch-p-34335.html

I run two of these, one has a sanded lens to cast a super diffuse light mounted on bike. The price is definitely right...

[NordieBoy]

Just signed up for the Rabbit Island 6 hour on the 21st.
Solo class...

Anyone want to save me from myself?
Team NADS?

5km laps, no hills...
Giant MTB's as spot prizes...

[NordieBoy]

Jenni got a #2 buzz cut today in support of a workmate having chemo and I got a buzz cut to support Jenni.

I've had the pony tail for 27 years :(

It better make me faster dammit...

[Willdat?]

Just signed up for the Rabbit Island 6 hour on the 21st.
Solo class...

Anyone want to save me from myself?
Team NADS?

5km laps, no hills...
Giant MTB's as spot prizes...

I could probably be convinced, are you cyclocrossing, single speeding or?

[NordieBoy]

I'm going to be single speeding.
Average lap time will apparently be about 20min/15kph.
That's easily achievable on the SS.
If I went solo, I'd be aiming for 17kph and 100km for the day.

[R650R]

Just pedalled the river trail for some exercise, man 26 inch wheels feel slow and lots of effort.

[NordieBoy]

Yeah, after riding 29, 26 does seem to have some issues.
My 26" Stumpy hard tail is a sweet bike and in race mode weighs about 10.2kg including dropper post. As a geared bike, it's a joy to ride. As a single speed, it's awful.
My old Diamondback is the dead opposite.

Unfortunately, I'm hooked on single speed's now :(

[NordieBoy]

Just pedalled the river trail for some exercise, man 26 inch wheels feel slow and lots of effort.
Riding in the riverbed teaches you line selection :D

[R650R]

Riding in the riverbed teaches you line selection :D

Oh I've tried that crazy shit before, its all fun before you try go past the waterline....

Today was just slumming it on the limestone trails with the average joes blowing the cobwebs off the Fuel Ex before the new Mrs R650R gets introduced to mountain biking :)
Actually it might be best to ride her own bike before too much new stuff at once... I'm sure dodging trees will be enough for a newbie without worrying about suspension pressures...

[NordieBoy]

Got sort of lost again today.
Not lost lost, just didn't know where I was going...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/07/a9834f7accf273aac9f3a943de020f78.jpg

I think I ended up doing a Tunnicliff Rd loop. Whatever that is.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/07/550bc76c7544d9958a9f4fc24a17d0d6.jpg

[Paul in NZ]

http://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-1800Lum-CREE-XM-L-T6-LED-Bicycle-Bike-Light-HeadLight-Headlamp-Torch-p-34335.html

I run two of these, one has a sanded lens to cast a super diffuse light mounted on bike. The price is definitely right...

We use these...

The prices are very good and delivery about 3 weeks...

http://www.dhgate.com/product/wholesale-4000-lumen-3-x-cree-xml-t6-led/217042984.html#s1-0-1b|3808703644

At that price we have 2 each and enjoy better lights than the Triumph.... LOL...

[Paul in NZ]

Jenni got a #2 buzz cut today in support of a workmate having chemo and I got a buzz cut to support Jenni.

I've had the pony tail for 27 years :(

It better make me faster dammit...

Change is good....

[NordieBoy]

Change is weird.

[Night Falcon]

Got sort of lost again today.
Not lost lost, just didn't know where I was going...


how can you be lost? thought you were right at home in gorse?

[NordieBoy]

how can you be lost? thought you were right at home in gorse?

Tubeless tyres are great in gorse and blackberry :D

[Gremlin]

Finally got my arse into gear and took the pushy to the local Bike Barn store to get a service and replace a disc... coz there doesn't seem to be a chance I'm going to do it...

Their mechanic was the store manager and had recently left... so workshop closed for a few weeks.

Not sure if I can muster up the stamina to take it to another place? :(

[NordieBoy]

Bring it around. I'll do it :lol:

[Gremlin]

Bring it around. I'll do it :lol:
If it took me from Easter (last road trip for mtb'ing) to now to get it .... about 5-10km away (nearest store, but I go past via motorbike almost daily) I think Nelson might be a stretch ;)

Hit a branch or something and bent the rear disc badly. With pliers I was able to straighten it enough to finish the weekend. Looked it up... looks like Centre lock 180mm... which neither BB or T7 seems to have, so pretty much went fuck this, off to the shop with you (plus it needs a service as I've only done basic maintenance for the last year).

[Paul in NZ]

Oh crap - Vicki has suggested I get myself a new bike...

Normally I'd be super excited but every time I start to look I can barely tell the difference between models. Sure I can see as the $$ goes up the componentry gets better but with some makers the difference between their XC and All Mountain variants are a bit difficult to spot... The say all day comfort... does that mean the other one is uncomfortable? Its got a slacker front - slacker than what? without a figure how can I compare?

It usually impossible to test ride these bikes so I get even more confused...

Bah...

Looking at Rocky Mountain Thunderbolts and Trek's. Maybe Specialised, would think about 650B + but none in store yet...

Sigh...

[James Deuce]

Just buy the most expensive one you can find.

[Paul in NZ]

Just buy the most expensive one you can find.

That's very easy....

Sadly I can easily find ones that cost way more than I can ever afford... Please don't say 'then buy the best one you can afford' as that just takes me back to square one...

Sigh

[James Deuce]

Buy the best one you can aff...

Oops.

[Gremlin]

Bike Barn always seems to have 50% sales, bearing in mind they're RRP are also way inflated compared to overseas. Don't pay full price.

I got my Merida Big Ninety-Nine CF at more than 50% off... so uh, couldn't argue :eek:

And now T7 has big sales, so I couldn't resist those either <_<

[Paul in NZ]

Bike Barn always seems to have 50% sales, bearing in mind they're RRP are also way inflated compared to overseas. Don't pay full price.

I got my Merida Big Ninety-Nine CF at more than 50% off... so uh, couldn't argue :eek:

And now T7 has big sales, so I couldn't resist those either <_<

At 50% they are priced about right...

Not a criticism of them or their bikes but I'm wanting to use my local guy as hes really looked after me..

[NordieBoy]

What sort of riding are you going to be doing?

[R650R]

Torpedo7 are doing Trek now they bought out RnR sport, if you could get someone to pick up from Hamilton store theres deals to be had....

[Willdat?]

Depends on budget...

If I was starting out again I'd buy this ($2879)

http://www.bikeexchange.co.nz/a/27-5-dual-suspension-mountain-bikes/giant/bay-of-plenty/rotorua/trance-27-5-2/100041283

but entry level it's very hard to go past this ($1599)

http://www.bikeexchange.co.nz/a/27-5-dual-suspension-mountain-bikes/giant/bay-of-plenty/rotorua/stance-27-5-2/100040887

Giant fan btw...

[Paul in NZ]

What sort of riding are you going to be doing?

Probably keep the hardtail 29'r for the wide open trails around here as its fast and effortless

Its a bit of a handful on narrow single track and technical stuff. Climbs OK but pretty high geared and I struggle to keep it pointed straight at slower speeds climbing. I was having a mare of a time with the front coming up on tight uphill switchbacks but a few adjustments and better technique mostly sorted that. Having a quick pedal on a few full suss bikes makes me think that's worth a lash... 650b, alloy, mix of xt or slx brakes/shifters etc. 120mm plus travel...

[Scubbo]

fark mountain bikes are a rip

[Paul in NZ]

fark mountain bikes are a rip

Fun though - you can get your knee down and pop a wheelie, do mean arse skids and even pull a stoppie and NO demerits or fines... choice...

[Gremlin]

Fun though - you can get your knee down and pop a wheelie, do mean arse skids and even pull a stoppie and NO demerits or fines... choice...
And laugh when your shoulder brushes a tree

Then afterwards you think that was a bit crazy, and remember you've hurt yourself more mountain biking than motorcycling... and wonder when you can next head into the forest :laugh:

[Paul in NZ]

And laugh when your shoulder brushes a tree

Then afterwards you think that was a bit crazy, and remember you've hurt yourself more mountain biking than motorcycling... and wonder when you can next head into the forest :laugh:


Yes....

Hurt is subjective of course....

[Gremlin]

Hurt is subjective of course....
No, it's pretty outright :D

Ignoring minor stuff, motorcycling: burnt leg, 2nd degree burn (2 weeks off feet, almost hospitalised due to infection). Mountain biking: bruised/fractured ribs (5 weeks to heal, didn't bother visiting A&E as they couldn't exactly do much anyway).

Mountain biking wins for pain received :sweatdrop

[Night Falcon]

No, it's pretty outright :D

Ignoring minor stuff, motorcycling:burnt leg, 2nd degree burn (2 weeks off feet, almost hospitalised due to infection). Mountain biking: bruised/fractured ribs (5 weeks to heal, didn't bother visiting A&E as they couldn't exactly do much anyway).

Mountain biking wins for pain received :sweatdrop

Am ordering 2 new mountain bikes with helmets and soft seats today. My bride and I have decided its time to explore some of the hundreds of miles of tracks the HBRC have kindly had installed around the Bay. The Mountain bike will have a hard job beating my motorcycles for pain received - it is possible but not likely....the Lord willing I aim to keep it that way :laugh:

My last new bike was Christmas 1970 Santa was generous that year :banana:

http://i805.photobucket.com/albums/yy337/SpeedDaddy/Choppers_zps8ariab5z.jpg

[James Deuce]

Am ordering 2 new mountain bikes with helmets and soft seats today. My bride and I have decided its time to explore some of the hundreds of miles of tracks the HBRC have kindly had installed around the Bay. The Mountain bike will have a hard job beating my motorcycles for pain received - it is possible but not likely....the Lord willing I aim to keep it that way :laugh:

My last new bike was Christmas 1970 Santa was generous that year :banana:



Good Christmas that one.

If it's pain you want, SH50 past the golf course should be entertaining for the rest of us, either driving or driving past.

[Paul in NZ]

Am ordering 2 new mountain bikes with helmets and soft seats today. My bride and I have decided its time to explore some of the hundreds of miles of tracks the HBRC have kindly had installed around the Bay. The Mountain bike will have a hard job beating my motorcycles for pain received - it is possible but not likely....the Lord willing I aim to keep it that way :laugh:


Keep us posted on your progress.... Always keen to hear about new places to ride..

At the moment my big decision is to whether got the XC/Trail (120mm travel each end) or the longer 140/150mm travel trail / all mountain routes.

Since everything in wellington requires climbing ability I’m trending to the shorter travel / lighter route. Say Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt 730/750??

[Night Falcon]

If it's pain you want, SH50 past the golf course should be entertaining for the rest of us, either driving or driving past.

I don't want or need anymore pain :no:


Keep us posted on your progress.... Always keen to hear about new places to ride..

At the moment my big decision is to whether got the XC/Trail (120mm travel each end) or the longer 140/150mm travel trail / all mountain routes.

Since everything in wellington requires climbing ability I’m trending to the shorter travel / lighter route. Say Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt 730/750??

That's a hard decision. The guy at Bike Barn made it easy for me....I just said give me that one and that one and he said OK. Actually the 29er I wanted they sold the last one in the country today and not to me, it was beautiful, a Merida Big Seven 100 in orange and black....of course :facepalm:

[R650R]

Am ordering 2 new mountain bikes with helmets and soft seats today. My bride and I have decided its time to explore some of the hundreds of miles of tracks the HBRC have kindly had installed around the Bay. The Mountain bike will have a hard job beating my motorcycles for pain received - it is possible but not likely....the Lord willing I aim to keep it that way :laugh:


Don't speak too soon... just ask Denniso about some of his get offs in the park.

We'll have to give you the guided tour of Eskdale on the low level trails to wet your appetite for doing silly stuff :)

[R650R]

At the moment my big decision is to whether got the XC/Trail (120mm travel each end) or the longer 140/150mm travel trail / all mountain routes.



Go 120mm to start with. You'll end up with better technique and skills. Bit like starting motocross on 125 instead of 500 etc...
Its cool to be able to bomb straight across real rough stupid stuff with 160mm travel that I've got, but to be honest there's few places where you really need it or do it justice.
There's more options and price flexibility in the 120 travel sector.

[Night Falcon]

Don't speak too soon... just ask Denniso about some of his get offs in the park.

We'll have to give you the guided tour of Eskdale on the low level trails to wet your appetite for doing silly stuff :)

That is a deal my friend - be kind to me though. In a back to front way I'm hoping my Leatt compression suit doesn't turn out to be a great investment :baby: Plan to start riding some of the easy trails round Havelock next week to check the fitness, have been on the exer-cycle once or twice so not expecting to totally embarrass myself - nevertheless I will be wearing a hoodie and dark glasses whilst running in the new bike in public :whistle:

[Gremlin]

Am ordering 2 new mountain bikes with helmets and soft seats today. My bride and I have decided its time to explore some of the hundreds of miles of tracks the HBRC have kindly had installed around the Bay. The Mountain bike will have a hard job beating my motorcycles for pain received - it is possible but not likely....the Lord willing I aim to keep it that way :laugh:
Yeah, you say that now... just wait until you're racing past trees, brushing the bar tip (and your fingers and hand) on said trees, ducking for branches etc. :innocent:

What I do like though, is that councils/DOC/other organisations see mountain biking as beneficial to fitness, so a lot of development has been done country wide opening up stunning landscapes so we can go careening around :mellow: You can get to some stunning places where motorbikes aren't allowed (plus I'm never going to try taking my tank there am I?). Old Ghost Rd is definitely on the to-do list for example.

[Night Falcon]

Yeah, you say that now... just wait until you're racing past trees, brushing the bar tip (and your fingers and hand) on said trees, ducking for branches etc. :innocent:

What I do like though, is that councils/DOC/other organisations see mountain biking as beneficial to fitness, so a lot of development has been done country wide opening up stunning landscapes so we can go careening around :mellow: You can get to some stunning places where motorbikes aren't allowed (plus I'm never going to try taking my tank there am I?). Old Ghost Rd is definitely on the to-do list for example.

I have to admit I did look at the handle bars and think "where's the bark busters?"

Its actually quite jaw dropping for us uninitiated when you start discovering the places available for mountain bikers to ride compared to trail riders. The powers that be need to comprehend the physical exertion it takes to chuck a trials/trail bike around in the woods then they might open up some land for us - I could post them my sweaty tee shirt & socks after a ride for proof :pinch:

[NordieBoy]

I'm looking at a set of hand guards for the next time I ride with gorse boy.

[NordieBoy]

My heart rate monitor says one of my 4hr trail rides is equal to about 2hrs of MTB'ing in calories burned.

[Night Falcon]

My heart rate monitor says one of my 4hr trail rides is equal to about 2hrs of MTB'ing in calories burned.

that proves you should ride your trail bike at least twice as much as ya MTB :shifty:

[R650R]

I have to admit I did look at the handle bars and think "where's the bark busters?"



The less shit attached to the handlebars the better, especially if you crash bad enough and bend the handle bar with your nuts like one rider I know....

Its generally elbows and shoulders clipping trees, hands usually safe til you land in blackberry.
I have an AXO aircage, only ever worn it at Rotovegas and only because I was starting a new job on the following Monday. Still lots of vulnerable areas of body but at least you might enjoy rest of days riding if its not a major off.
There too heavy to wear when not catching the shuttle though...

[Night Falcon]

suspension advice please

Have decided I only need front suspenders but don't know much about them. In my price bracket there are 75mm and 100mm travel predominantly. I'm not going to be doing fast or even semi fast riding but one salesman told me 29er suspension is shorter cos the wheels are bigger, will I be making a big mistake going with 75mm over 100mm?

[Paul in NZ]

suspension advice please

Have decided I only need front suspenders but don't know much about them. In my price bracket there are 75mm and 100mm travel predominantly. I'm not going to be doing fast or even semi fast riding but one salesman told me 29er suspension is shorter cos the wheels are bigger, will I be making a big mistake going with 75mm over 100mm?

Have you already paid for it? If so - what you have is great...

If you are still deciding then look about for a sweet deal as the last 2015 bikes are being special ed out like crazy. The good/popular bikes have gone in my size :violin: so looks like I'm waiting for the 2016 models now. My Cannondale SL2 is a 29'r with 100mm travel and I'd think that's about the minimum you want. The dealer should set the fork up for you either way.

650B (27.5) is the new std really and 750 (29) is a bit meh unless you are wanting to go super fast on trails. Then the Merida Big Seven 100 might be a bit heavy and low spec. Vickis Trek was a super nice bike for the $$ - the wheel set was amazing, the thing rolled like glass...

Thing is - you first bike will last you 12 to 18 months and then you will be wanting more.... Your eyes will be opened by then and its hello single track and down hill speed...

Yippee

[Night Falcon]

Have you already paid for it? If so - what you have is great...

If you are still deciding then look about for a sweet deal as the last 2015 bikes are being special ed out like crazy. The good/popular bikes have gone in my size :violin: so looks like I'm waiting for the 2016 models now. My Cannondale SL2 is a 29'r with 100mm travel and I'd think that's about the minimum you want. The dealer should set the fork up for you either way.

650B (27.5) is the new std really and 750 (29) is a bit meh unless you are wanting to go super fast on trails. Then the Merida Big Seven 100 might be a bit heavy and low spec. Vickis Trek was a super nice bike for the $$ - the wheel set was amazing, the thing rolled like glass...

Thing is - you first bike will last you 12 to 18 months and then you will be wanting more.... Your eyes will be opened by then and its hello single track and down hill speed...

Yippee

Went to buy the bikes yesterday but they had sold out in my size. Avanti are getting 2016 bikes in early July so am deciding if I should confirm an order for one - its a Montari XL (orange :woohoo:) Seems to have all the goodies I'll need, and as you say if I catch the MTB bug in 18months time I can always upgrade. There's loads of options for Sue at great prices so will get her sorted on Saturday.

It really is just for getting me out of the house and make exercise fun again (I'm so over the exercycle in front of the telly) but if 100mm is the way to go I'll just have keep looking around.

Buying motorbikes is a lot less hassle than buying MTB's.....cos as we all know, you just stick to KTM and ya cant go wrong :Punk:

[Gremlin]

Buying motorbikes is a lot less hassle than buying MTB's.....cos as we all know, you just stick to KTM and ya cant go wrong :Punk:
You're in the wrong thread bucko :spanking: but if you must know... I broke a lot more stuff like subframes on the KTM than the BMW...

At least the bikes come in your size... not many come in 22-23" sizes :weep:

[Night Falcon]

You're in the wrong thread bucko :spanking: but if you must know... I broke a lot more stuff like subframes on the KTM than the BMW...

At least the bikes come in your size... not many come in 22-23" sizes :weep:

They do come in my size but nobody has any dang nabitt :no: sposed to rain this weekend anyway so that makes me feel better. I'm almost looking forward to pulling gorse out of my knee cap, getting ya track pants caught in the chain; can hardly wait to regain my lost youth out on the trails and farkling up my new bike......is it the done thing to put ape-hangers on a MTB?

[R650R]

suspension advice please

Have decided I only need front suspenders but don't know much about them. In my price bracket there are 75mm and 100mm travel predominantly. I'm not going to be doing fast or even semi fast riding but one salesman told me 29er suspension is shorter cos the wheels are bigger, will I be making a big mistake going with 75mm over 100mm?

The bigger wheels do noticeably roll over bumps and stuff better and pedal faster/easier on the straights once you have a bit of momentum. Kinda like the difference between 21 and 17 on the front end of the DR etc....
At a guess I'd say most of your time is going to be riding the riverbank trails and the flat limestone is like riding tarmac anyway.
I wouldn't worry about getting the latest bike, far better to reap the savings and get this years stuff at half the price with most places.
I'd consider 100mm a bit on the short side so not much difference between 75-100 anyway....
I'd invite you over to have a spin on my wheels but might make all your other options feel a bit cheap... eg if your a DR650 owner its good not to know how good a KTM690 rides like...

[Night Falcon]

The bigger wheels do noticeably roll over bumps and stuff better and pedal faster/easier on the straights once you have a bit of momentum. Kinda like the difference between 21 and 17 on the front end of the DR etc....
At a guess I'd say most of your time is going to be riding the riverbank trails and the flat limestone is like riding tarmac anyway.
I wouldn't worry about getting the latest bike, far better to reap the savings and get this years stuff at half the price with most places.
I'd consider 100mm a bit on the short side so not much difference between 75-100 anyway....
I'd invite you over to have a spin on my wheels but might make all your other options feel a bit cheap... eg if your a DR650 owner its good not to know how good a KTM690 rides like...

yup smooth and easy is the way to go for me. The bikes I'm looking at for Sue are like 50% off retail so that's pretty good. But I cant find anything in a 21" frame for me unless I want to get real spendy :no: Tried a 19" but it seemed a little cramped. Do you reckon I'd be ok with smaller wheels? I do plan on visiting Eskdale but just not going to hard out, I cant risk a major off just yet.....my doctor would kill me even if the crash didn't. Maybe I need somebody who knows a bit about MTB's to point me in the right direction....I'm quite prepared to spring for Hawthorne's coffee in order to extract useful data?

[R650R]

yup smooth and easy is the way to go for me. The bikes I'm looking at for Sue are like 50% off retail so that's pretty good. But I cant find anything in a 21" frame for me unless I want to get real spendy :no: Tried a 19" but it seemed a little cramped. Do you reckon I'd be ok with smaller wheels? I do plan on visiting Eskdale but just not going to hard out, I cant risk a major off just yet.....my doctor would kill me even if the crash didn't. Maybe I need somebody who knows a bit about MTB's to point me in the right direction....I'm quite prepared to spring for Hawthorne's coffee in order to extract useful data?

Were you taller than me, thought you were same sizeish... 21 is quite a big frame. Some makers like Trek measure it in a funny way to but its essentially based on the top tube length, between seat and handlebar stem.
Most bikes you can move the seat a little too and get different stems.
Smaller wheels (26inch) have been the norm for ages, 29s are fairly recent and 650B (27.5inch) is the new marketing hype (but is actually very good for many technical reasons).
26's are fine, heaps of tyre choices and spares and will feel fine unless you've gotten used to something else. Smaller wheels are faster steering too, good for missing solid objects like trees.... :)
I've still got your number so year catch up sometime, which shops have you been to so far?

[Gremlin]

I would say the right frame size is of more importance than the wheel size. After all, we got along just fine with 26" wheels for years until suddenly manufacturers decided we had to have 29" and now again, 650 (27.5) and now I think it's 650+... yeah, it's crazy.

My hardtail (first bike) is a 26'er, and yes, I do think the 29'er does roll over roots and suchlike more easily, but depends if that's the terrain you're riding? Technique will trump a few inches any day :msn-wink:

[NordieBoy]

Low speed technical climbing, and I'll take a 29er any day over a 26er.
Not as nimble, but won't stall out as often either.
If you're looking at 20" and up frames, then I wouldn't bother with small wheels.
100mm travel is fine.

21" frame, 10kg, 26er with 100mm travel.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/16/60a865a02bfaaff1eccf3d4cda8b47ad.jpg

20" frame, 13kg, 29er with 100mm travel.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/16/a72de8a1bc8a4dec04b6af186bac3e0a.jpg

I'm getting rid of the Stumpy.
It's a fantastic bike if you like light hard tails with gears...

[Night Falcon]

Were you taller than me, thought you were same sizeish... 21 is quite a big frame. Some makers like Trek measure it in a funny way to but its essentially based on the top tube length, between seat and handlebar stem.
Most bikes you can move the seat a little too and get different stems.
Smaller wheels (26inch) have been the norm for ages, 29s are fairly recent and 650B (27.5inch) is the new marketing hype (but is actually very good for many technical reasons).
26's are fine, heaps of tyre choices and spares and will feel fine unless you've gotten used to something else. Smaller wheels are faster steering too, good for missing solid objects like trees.... :)
I've still got your number so year catch up sometime, which shops have you been to so far?

I'm 184cm. I've been to the Hub, Bike Barn, Revolution cycles, Avanti Hastings and one other I cant remember. Every one of them have told me I need the bigger frame. I wouldn't have a clue myself and each manufacturer seems to have different sizes - some are in inches others are just med, large & extra large, so its a bit difficult to tell without having one in stock to ride. I'm home most days at the moment so do feel free to drop me a line anytime for a catch up. :niceone:

[Kickaha]

Thing is - you first bike will last you 12 to 18 months
I've had mine about 11 years too long them

[Paul in NZ]

I've had mine about 11 years too long them

Yeah I think so LOL....

[R650R]

I've had mine about 11 years too long them

I've still got my Quickshifter XT from school days lol, should do it up...

First MTB lasted about a year... before being stolen, was in good shape still.
Fuel EX-7 clocked about 4500km over about 4 years before being replaced by the Slash. Still in good shape but the running gear all fairly worn....

[NordieBoy]

338 people in 120 teams registered for the 6hr on Sunday.
Fasting and purging for 8 days should serve me well.
A no training at all 12 day taper should leave me refreshed too.

[Night Falcon]

I can do 10mins on my exercycle, 6hrs peddling I'd need some of Lance Armstrong's secrete elixir for that :shifty:

[NordieBoy]

10min on an exercycle is forever.

[Muzz67]

is that from his remaining nut?

[NordieBoy]

Ready to rumble!

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/19/d8ec6b16b56f1753f043e5ce3f2fa5f7.jpg

And so is my stomach!

[Night Falcon]

looking good Nordie. Bought our bikes today, plus helmets, and a few accessories. I ended up getting a 29er 19inch frame, hydraulic brakes are nice. We took them for a test ride before the rain ended it and loved it. Amazing how bike technology has changed since 1970 :laugh: Only thing I might look to change is the seat - I think its made by KTM :blink:

[Gremlin]

Just fitted a set of 750mm bars to replace the stock 680mm... interested to see if it makes a difference as I've found the narrow bars make the bike seem twitchy at times.

Should be going tomorrow, except I haven't ridden since Easter. I think my non-existent asthma will make a return :facepalm:

[NordieBoy]

750 is my sweet spot for bar width without bar ends or 720 with.
Best value I've found are the Funn Fat Boy 750 riser and Flame On 720 flat. Just the right pull back for me and available in several different colours.

I have a set of carbon riser bars in 680mm. Felt like I should grow a beard, put on some rimmed glasses, tight jeans and start listening to vinyl.
Shudder...

Epicycle do some good cheap Bontrager carbon bars.
Got a set of 720mm ones that are sweet but can't take bar ends :(

[Gremlin]

Yup, picked up a Funn bar from T7 for about $50 during the special. Figured it was a cheap experiment if it didn't work out. :wings:

[nzspokes]

I would say the right frame size is of more importance than the wheel size. After all, we got along just fine with 26" wheels for years until suddenly manufacturers decided we had to have 29" and now again, 650 (27.5) and now I think it's 650+... yeah, it's crazy.

My hardtail (first bike) is a 26'er, and yes, I do think the 29'er does roll over roots and suchlike more easily, but depends if that's the terrain you're riding? Technique will trump a few inches any day :msn-wink:

You are behind the times. 27Plus is the new must have size.:facepalm:

Can we keep a standard for at least 2 years please????

[NordieBoy]

I would just like to say. Ouch!

[Brian d marge]

I would just like to say. Ouch!
I understand that

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[Gremlin]

I would just like to say. Ouch!
+1, but you would have completed far more than me...

Loving the 750, no adjustment needed (well, perhaps stay away from trees a little more, as I got bark wedged between grip and bar plug) so it's here to stay. :yes:

[NordieBoy]

Top 10 finish!
Got 9th in solo men!

[Padmei]

well done.

[Night Falcon]

Top 10 finish!
Got 9th in solo men!

exemplary accomplishment

[NordieBoy]

If I didn't lie down for 5min a couple of times for a peanut butter and banana sandwich and to let the cranks subside, I would have got 8th! Out of 9...

[NordieBoy]

Oh shit! A photographer!
Look serious and bend your elbows!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/22/f4cbcfe04f6c5f8532ce5d7418a9b58c.jpg

[NordieBoy]

Front, rear & down tube guards and the drink bottles stayed clean.
Thermal compression top, cycling vest and shirt about right temperature wise.

Coolmax socks = frozen feet :(

[Night Falcon]

orange shirt for extra speed and style points :yes:

[Kickaha]

orange shirt for extra speed and style points :yes:

Should of had a shirt to match the pants

[NordieBoy]

Should of had a shirt to match the pants
I'm looking, I'm looking...

[R650R]

Should of had a shirt to match the pants

Needs to update avatar, looks like he's had a haircut ;p

[Paul in NZ]

Should of had a shirt to match the pants

You always had an eye for sartorial style....

cough...

[NordieBoy]

Taken from mtbr.com
Ouch!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/26/71ebe52bd9d2cbf21720a8e6ff995583.jpg

[NordieBoy]

Martyn Ashton is back on a bike!
https://youtu.be/kX_hn3Xf90g

The riders behind him are Chris Akkrig and Danny MacAskill.

[Night Falcon]

Martyn Ashton is back on a bike!
https://youtu.be/kX_hn3Xf90g

The riders behind him are Chris Akkrig and Danny MacAskill.

Incredible......just plain incredible!

[Paul in NZ]

Martyn Ashton is back on a bike!
https://youtu.be/kX_hn3Xf90g

The riders behind him are Chris Akkrig and Danny MacAskill.

We watched that last night... Vicki cried.... Its awesome... What it is to have good mates to give you a shove when needed eh?

[Brainflex]

Video of the year right there.

[Padmei]

Yep really really good.

[R650R]

Nice chain ring marks, will leave a cool scar.

[NordieBoy]

Nice chain ring marks, will leave a cool scar.
He got 3 stitches.


And then the skin grafts...

[Paul in NZ]

Another day - another morning spent helping build the new mtb track... Loads of rocks to move... soft spots to fill in and culverts etc... knackered...

[Kickaha]

. knackered...
Did a 15km loop with one of the guys from work, pace was a big higher than I was comfortable with and about the 12km mark my speed dropped off for a bit, I'm knackered too

Normally we go further slower

[NordieBoy]

I just did a 6km road loop from home with more climbing than 85km of riding at the Rabbit Island 6hr.

On a bike with gears :eek5:

I stuck the rigid fork off the Kona Unit 29er on my 26" Stumpy hard tail and put on some spare 29" wheels and 32mm road tyres.
Carbon seatpost and bars.
Might be one of the most expensive "city" bikes around...

[R650R]

WTF has this thread been moved to rant and arve?????

Anyhow 18km ride two wheel drifting at Eskdale today, just the right amount of tacky mudiness.
Pic of Crowley rd climb, tracks themselves in much better condition.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0NXe246IFdvT0owN3ppbEg3T3c/view?usp=sharing

[NordieBoy]

WTF has this thread been moved to rant and arve?????
Weird. I don't think anyone has ranted or raved in the thread at all. Well, raved maybe.


Anyhow 18km ride two wheel drifting at Eskdale today, just the right amount of tacky mudiness.

Yeah, mud. The 2 wheel drifting in the cyclocross racing has helped my gravel riding.
3°C, howling southerly, week old thick gravel now pushed into ridges, baldish front 705.
Just like a slick, off camber, CX corner.
Well, a 7km long CX corner...

As Jeremy Clarkson might have said, "poo did come out".

[Paul in NZ]

Oh well - rant and rave is OK...

You guys will know... I have a small bike that was always hanging about at Dads place. All the families kids used to ride it when they visited. Numbers on the coaster brake hub suggest a date 1971 and its a Raleigh so its likely a Raleigh Mountie. Suitable for a 5 to 7 year old..

Anywho - its pretty well worthless as its missing the mud guards and chain guard etc but I've decided to refurbish it anyway as the next generation should have a go and its as cute as a bug...

So - its all in bits. Bottom bracket / stem etc all in OK condition and I will get a bit of the chrome re plated.

I'm thinking repainting should be 2 pack rather than powder? Its a sort of metallic red... What do you think? It should be tough enough?

[NordieBoy]

Powder would be more kid proof.
But it should be chromed :D

[Padmei]

Rant & rave? Was it because this thread was prob one of the most active in the adv world someone got jealous?

Anyway - re the old bike - everythign should be chromed - chrome is good.

Prob the last post on this htread now as I find I rave too much down here & once you get me started.....

[NordieBoy]

Chromed Kona Unit.
Mmmmm...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/93244dd4b74870a063aed55375ddb719.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/6b3c8365c5d49e0239f2ff0bc446951b.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/77d700e776c93673974554e0a939d3e2.jpg

[Brian d marge]

Tour de france stage 3 . , . .ouch

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[pritch]

[QUOTE=NordieBoy;1130880595]Chromed Kona Unit.
Mmmmm...

All my bike has in common with that is the seat. Chrome is not recommended for motorbike frames as it's brittle and can crack, the crack can then create a stress riser which in turn causes the frame to crack. If you want a shiny frame and can't afford gold, nickle plating is the process of choice.

Dunno if the problem is as serious with pushbikes, but I'll leave that to someone else to find out. :whistle:

[Brian d marge]

[QUOTE=NordieBoy;1130880595]Chromed Kona Unit.
Mmmmm...

All my bike has in common with that is the seat. Chrome is not recommended for motorbike frames as it's brittle and can crack, the crack can then create a stress riser which in turn causes the frame to crack. If you want a shiny frame and can't afford gold, nickle plating is the process of choice.

Dunno if the problem is as serious with pushbikes, but I'll leave that to someone else to find out. :whistle:
Same just takes longer



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[Crisis management]

[QUOTE=pritch;1130880613]
Same just takes longer



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Are you sure? Hydrogen embrittlement from chrome plating is a documented problem on welded structures but I thought all good cycle frames were brazed so the problem shouldn't occur?

Usual disclaimers, not an expert, no real idea of the subject but have a vague recollection rattling around in my cranium and no, I'm not doing any more research than that. :bleh:

[NordieBoy]

But chrome Iooks cool!

[Paul in NZ]

We went for a spin Monday night... Lordy it was COLD but its always fun with lights when its getting on freezing. Everything looks white and sparkly.

We were wrapped up super warm but heres a question... What do you wear when its raining? Jackets no issue but legs? I have some Kathmandu stretchy merino things that are uber warm so will just use them I reckon...

[NordieBoy]

I just wear a thin goretex jacket and don't worry about the legs.

[Brian d marge]

Rainlegs are great like a belt that unfolds

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[NordieBoy]

Rainlegs are great like a belt that unfolds

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Not like SeaLegs then.

[Paul in NZ]

I just wear a thin goretex jacket and don't worry about the legs.

wot - not even shorts... That is adventurous...

[Brian d marge]

Not like SeaLegs then.
http://www.rainlegs.com/en/home

Mine have been across japan
The length of japan and to work everyday
And still are fine

Unlike sealskinz socks which fill up like balloons full of water

Now I use rainlegs and long cyclepants
Crocs with sealskin sock and overboots and duct tape around the top to stop water going into the socks

Seems to work even during the rainy season

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[R650R]

According to Strava a weekend of Chinese takeaways and Wild Turkey bourbon equals four new personal records!!! woop woop :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
So much for healthy living aye???

[NordieBoy]

According to Strava a weekend of Chinese takeaways and Wild Turkey bourbon equals four new personal records!!! woop woop :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
So much for healthy living aye???
Sounds good to me.

[NordieBoy]

<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/134600938" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Paul in NZ]

Yeah - watched that earlier... far out it just makes me feel like a fat old fraud... Honestly I think I need to stop watching that stuff...

[Kickaha]

Went out last night to Mcleans Island, 15.8km loop flat and reasonably quick averaging 22kmh for it, tonight was Bottle lake, bit tighter, few more little ups and downs, 17.3km loop averaging 18kmh

We used to average 20kmh for Bottle lake so the aim is to build back up to that and start doing the loop twice

This was the first time out in three weeks, my arse hurts

[NordieBoy]

This was the first time out in three weeks, my arse hurts

Go for a bike ride instead...

:buggerd:

[Brian d marge]

off on another one ,,,so I suppose this post goes here in adventure pushies!

across Japan ( again ) Tokyo bay to Nigata , even bought a front rack to put the bed roll on ,,

Organised this time hahahaha!!!

not

The heat this year is pretty hard ...humidity is a byatch so not taking much , just a canvas poncho and liner , plate , wood stove and a Billy and a change of cycle clothes

Water and dehydrated food ( I make my meals at home then dehydrate them )

Should be fun ,,,,, though I really should save my money for Australia !

Stephen

[NordieBoy]

Bastard. Hope you get sunburn.

[NordieBoy]

In seatposty news, mmmmm...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/04/8400a041f00b9fafc00fe8abfeeee4b9.jpg

[Brian d marge]

Bastard. Hope you get sunburn.
Oooh I will its brutal

I hear Korea has some very nice cycle trails
Gets nice and cold in winter and all



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[RJC]

In seatposty news, mmmmm...


No dropper?

[NordieBoy]

Haven't been needing a dropper on that bike recently. If it gets gnarly or steep, I'm happy to get off and walk.

Both my droppers are in the parts bin at the moment.
I'm tempted to put the TMARS one on the rigid single speed I keep in town as I'm more likely to need it doing stupid stuff like Turners, IV Line, Firball, Gully.

Also 3 of my 4 bikes run 27.2 seatposts now and I've already got a good one for the 30.9
27.2 dropper posts are either really cheap like the $140 TMARS Gravity Dropper clone or really expensive like the Thomson at $650 on sale.

[Gremlin]

Where do the Welly folk go pedalling? I'm in Welly for the first weekend of September.

No desire to tackle anything higher than G3, but thought I'd do some exploring on the way down and on the way north as well. Probably do something Monday morning prior to leaving...

[R650R]

In seatposty news, mmmmm...


Is there a story behind that, got to be a big get off involved. Me and the other hooligan down here have thrown our bikes at all sorts of solid objects and not done that yet lol

[NordieBoy]

Is there a story behind that, got to be a big get off involved. Me and the other hooligan down here have thrown our bikes at all sorts of solid objects and not done that yet lol
Just a really good deal on TradeMe.
Big get off would indicate big speed. I don't do that.

The Kona seat post at 370mm is borderline short whereas the Thomson is 410mm.
I actually got a more secondhand looking straight Thomson too and that suits my riding style more.

The Thomson seat clamp has far more surface area clamping the rails too.

[NordieBoy]

In wheel news, since I evened up the spoke tension on the single speeds, 3 sets of wheels have stayed nice and true.

No more tweaking them back after every few rides.
The Park TM-1 rulez.

[Brian d marge]

Ahh this is the life .

400km to joetsu

Have mild trench foot or what ever u call it after spending 3 days in the tropical rain

Hill lots of hills

My russian plash planka poncho is the best bit of kit ever

Relaxing by the beach ahhhhhh



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[nzspokes]

Where do the Welly folk go pedalling? I'm in Welly for the first weekend of September.

No desire to tackle anything higher than G3, but thought I'd do some exploring on the way down and on the way north as well. Probably do something Monday morning prior to leaving...

Go see the boys at Mud Cycles in Karori. Dave and Ricky will point you in the right direction. In fact I think you can ride for the shop. Tell them I sent you.

Ask Ricky to show you his infamous video....

[NordieBoy]

Tropical rain would be nice...

[Paul in NZ]

Where do the Welly folk go pedalling? I'm in Welly for the first weekend of September.

No desire to tackle anything higher than G3, but thought I'd do some exploring on the way down and on the way north as well. Probably do something Monday morning prior to leaving...

I could be tempted to go for a ride??? Where are you staying?

[Brian d marge]

Tropical rain would be nice...
Yes but the body suffers . . .like staying in a hot shower for a week

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[Gremlin]

I could be tempted to go for a ride??? Where are you staying?
Police College Fri/Sat then will find something Sunday. Got AGM and related stuff Sunday and most of Saturday, so I'll probably bike Monday morning. Saw Makara Peak while hunting?

Friday as I head down I thought I'd explore some trails around Kaitoke (around a lake I believe) and when I head north I'll probably do some around Kinloch on Tuesday morning (took Thurs - Tues off). I've also got a mapping program on my mobile, so I feed back the trail data to the NZ Open GPS maps to flesh it out a bit when nothing has been noted in the area.

So debating whether Makara Peak is a good option or something up the Kapiti Coast... :ride:

[Paul in NZ]

So debating whether Makara Peak is a good option or something up the Kapiti Coast... :ride:

Eithers good - pm me when you are free and will sort summat out..

[Paul in NZ]

Police College Fri/Sat then will find something Sunday. Got AGM and related stuff Sunday and most of Saturday, so I'll probably bike Monday morning. Saw Makara Peak while hunting?

Friday as I head down I thought I'd explore some trails around Kaitoke (around a lake I believe) and when I head north I'll probably do some around Kinloch on Tuesday morning (took Thurs - Tues off). I've also got a mapping program on my mobile, so I feed back the trail data to the NZ Open GPS maps to flesh it out a bit when nothing has been noted in the area.

So debating whether Makara Peak is a good option or something up the Kapiti Coast... :ride:

At Taupo = orakau or chinamans creek to Kinloch. Get a shuttle Kinloch to top of trail and ride to Kinloch.. Awesome ride...

Do you have a car or summat???? If not I can pick u up for a ride??

[Gremlin]

At Taupo = orakau or chinamans creek to Kinloch. Get a shuttle Kinloch to top of trail and ride to Kinloch.. Awesome ride...

Do you have a car or summat???? If not I can pick u up for a ride??
During Easter a mate and I did a road trip and did the W2K track plus headland loop but not the stretch to Kinloch, so that's probably the first bit anyway as it's not all on the map either.

Yeah, van, haven't made up some mounting on the BMW for the mtb bike yet so it has to be transported somehow. Plus I'm planning to look at a towbar for the Hiace in the same area. PM you closer to the time :yes:

[NordieBoy]

I think a gravel grinder is in order today.
The cyclocross bike needs an outing.

[NordieBoy]

65km, 1,300m, 3hrs, 4 rain bursts.
That was a workout.

I need a pie.

[Brian d marge]

My new touring rig

315698

thunderbird 1 is go ......

[NordieBoy]

Good thing there's no hills in Japan.
Oh wait...

[NordieBoy]

Now THAT was a race.
It was close, but I may not have got last in my class.
I know I didn't get last overall, as I passed I think 4 people of varying gender and age.

[NordieBoy]

The uphills were long, long, long and switchback city.
The downhills were rough, fast and switchbacky.
Only 2 corners I was uncomfortable with and walked. Steeper and tighter than anything down Turner's.
A dropper post would have been useful. As would rear suspension and gears.
There were about 8 single speeds there today.

It's a bugger when you're battling with someone the whole race, you get the upper hand, pull out a 20s gap only to have them put in a fast lap and pull away by 30s.
Only to find they're only doing 4 laps and you're doing 5...

[Motu]

Back on the pushbike - swapping the 400km commute on a 28 year old motorcycle for a 40km commute on a maybe 28 year old pushie, did it for over 5 years, back at it 2 years later. My daughter is a Postie in town and puts a shitload more kms on a bike than me, and they look after her bike for her. They recently replaced her seat because it had a tear, and her pedals because they were pretty old....so I got them. She can spend all day in her Postie seat, doing 2 runs sometimes, and shit, it's plush man, i like it. The pedals wouldn't fit my old wreck, but fitted them to my spindles - gone are my plastic pedals, big alloys now.

315922315921

[Brian d marge]

I just did a 5km commuter on a 50 yr old body and a slighly older machine http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/18/9cbcc24213658ec8db8a357f7f0538e5.jpg

This cycling a laugh , i think we should ban all car and just have push bikes motorbikes and trains steam of course

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[Motu]

We have a couple of lakes to ride or walk around, Lake Puketirini has some mountain bike tracks, I do the easy ones on my way home from work and on weekends. I wrecked a couple of rear wheels on my ''not for offroad use'' 21 speed, the steel wheeled bike is a lot tougher, but still has bent rims...so I do the easier stuff now. A few weeks ago i found in one part trees either cut with a saw or just broken or ripped out and laid across the path. Vandal dickheads just damaging things they walk past, or someone trying to block the track ?

People do ride dirt bikes in there, I've seen the tracks, but seldom seen a bike. Not good, but I can't judge as I can still see the damage we did to the volcanic cones in Auckland in the '70's - fun to blast in and out of the kumara pits, hill climbs on the fortifications. Youth, pity I was one once too. I've cleared most of them away and no more have been pulled down lately.

Trees laid down along here, and behind me too.

315929

[Padmei]

My mate Steve just sent me a text from here - Moab.

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww103/padmei_crayfish/Mobile%20Uploads/PART_1442524266282_imagejpeg_2.jpg (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/padmei_crayfish/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PART_1442524266282_imagejpeg_2.jpg.html)

What an awesome view. i did get invited...

[NordieBoy]

Looks like the view from Boar's Back up by Mt Everest.

My hill climb and time trial beastie is ready for the SI Masters Games.

The tyres alone weigh more than some bikes.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/26/62964fcad12fdd82328fa5df8364992f.jpg

Put some different forks, cranks and tyres on the XC monster for tomorrow's race #26inchforever

[Brian d marge]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/26/8d99783f91f77d41fcb70b04354f0e46.jpg

You wait until i get there . . . .a run for your money
You might have . .

Sent from my SC-01F using Tapatalk

[Paul in NZ]

Finally managed a longer ride on the new bike - weird - gradually getting my head around the dual sus thing.... I went down the steep root bit that makes the 29'r go bbbrrrbbbbrrrbbbrraaatttllleee and went roots, what roots???? Should ave done this yonks back

[NordieBoy]

You wait until i get there . . . .a run for your money
You might have . .
Registration is in an hour. Should I tell them to wait 10 minutes?