Adventure pushies

[NordieBoy]

Fitness training for "proper" adventure biking of course...

[NordieBoy]

Looking on TM for a full suspension frame to start building a "new" MTB.
My Diamondback Ascent with front suspension is not ergonomically suited to me at all.

The crosser is really nice to ride but gets hammered on the rocky tracks around here.
If I do the Rainbow Rage next year, its the bike I'll be using.

There's an XL Giant Trance X3 frame I've got my eye on though...

[Gremlin]

Just sorting a mountain bike now (Kona Cinder Cone)... I've accepted that I need to do something to get some semblance of fitness back, plus bicycles can go places motorcycles aren't allowed... at some point a mate or two and I will tour the South and explore a few of the places...

Interesting cycle going from road cycling over a decade ago to discovering engines, to getting a mountain bike (definitely no interest in cycling on the road again)...

[Brian d marge]

I'm leaving may 13th to go around Japan , the bike is nothing special, 26 inch foldable Chinese made
Added a wowee pro speaker but. I will say I like the suspension set up. Photo later

Stephen281424

[cynna]

too old for this now. heres a pic of TA when i went on a wee ride with him

[Padmei]

too old for this now. Here's a pic of TA when I went on a wee ride with him


Ah yes the old "bugger this hill" look:yes: I've had that once or twice

We're pretty bloody lucky with the riding over here really.

Nordie I don't think it would be economical of you to make a bike up these days - a ready made bike would prob work out cheaper for you - maybe not as much fun but cheaper. I reckon with your height & strength you'd be a contender for a 29er.

[Willdat?]

Seeing as my GT200 is sparkless at the moment I'm spending more and more time on my mountain bike, night riding isn't something I'd really considered, but seeing as bedtime is 7ish for the boys it could be a good way to get a mid week ride in... I'll leave this here for later!

http://dx.com/p/ssc-p7-3-mode-900-lumen-led-headlamp-bike-light-set-4-18650-50947

I too am considering the leap to a full suspension something...

Something interesting for me is that my downhill riding has improved significantly since I started riding motorbikes. The realisation that the inertia of spinning wheels keeps you up right!

[NordieBoy]

29er would be optimal but if I can get a frame and forks to suit, I can cannibalize my old bike for the rest of the parts.

Should be able to be out riding for <$500.

I'd rebuild the Diamondback V-Link which was a very nice ride but the frame is far too small.

I'd rebuild the Cannondale V-3000 as the size is perfect but the ride was awful from the back end. It looks really cool though.

[NordieBoy]

29er would be optimal but if I can get a 2nd hand frame and forks to suit, I can cannibalize my old bike for the rest of the parts.

Should be able to be out riding for <$500.

I'd rebuild the Diamondback V-Link which was a very nice ride but the frame is far too small.

I'd rebuild the Cannondale V-3000 as the size is perfect but the ride was awful from the back end. It looks really cool though.

[clint640]

night riding isn't something I'd really considered, but seeing as bedtime is 7ish for the boys it could be a good way to get a mid week ride in... I'll leave this here for later!

http://dx.com/p/ssc-p7-3-mode-900-lumen-led-headlamp-bike-light-set-4-18650-50947

!

:2thumbsup One on the helmet & one on the bars works mint. They'd probably outshine the 640's headlight. Went for the season's first night ride last week. The awesome Redwoods/Whakarewarewa MTB area is literally out the back gate from Rosie's work.

Cheers
Clint

[Padmei]

:2thumbsup One on the helmet & one on the bars works mint. They'd probably outshine the 640's headlight. Went for the season's first night ride last week. The awesome Redwoods/Whakarewarewa MTB area is literally out the back gate from Rosie's work.

Cheers
Clint

Whaka forest is one of the few things I miss about about the Nth island. It's supposed to be even better now.

What kind of lites are people using now?

[Padmei]

http://dx.com/p/ssc-p7-3-mode-900-lumen-led-headlamp-bike-light-set-4-18650-50947

I too am considering the leap to a full suspension something...
!

Thanks Will I just went back & saw that. looks bloody cheap deal actually with free shipping to NZ too!!

The jump to a squish is very life-changing. Some hardcore hard-tail racers don't like the bobbing effect when climbing however I found more traction uphill with the squish. I started with a Gen 1 Trance - 4inch travel then went to a Santa cruz Nomad with about 6inch travel. I couldn't keep up with the fit technical guys I was riding with anymore so stopped doing the big knarly stuff & now lonewolf it nana style - much more fun. Consequently I swapped bikes back to a 2005 Speccy Stumpjumper & I love it. It is like a Toyota corolla or DRZ400- nothing particularly special about it but handles everything I can throw at it & is soooo comfortable, reasonably light & responsive.

If you are looking at a fully sus I would be looking at something around the $2K mark second hand unless you know of someone that looks after their bikes well. I just paid out $90 for a couple of bits of rubber for the front brake reservoir.

[clint640]

Whaka forest is one of the few things I miss about about the Nth island. It's supposed to be even better now.

What kind of lites are people using now?

Yep, Whaka is great. There have been quite a few new tracks go in over the last few years & they get better at building them every time. If any of the adventure crowd are visiting Rot & are keen on a ride PM me or Rosie.

The Deal Extreme lights linked above are used by a lot of our mates too. Or you could pay 3x as much for half the light at T7 :eek5:

I've been thinking about fitting a diffuser lens of some sort to get more of a flood beam out of the one on my bars but they're pretty good really. Way more light & way less weight & bulk than the old 7Ah gel cell plus 20W Halogen setups we used to use.

Cheers
Clint

[CrazyFrog]

29er would be optimal but if I can get a frame and forks to suit, I can cannibalize my old bike for the rest of the parts.

Should be able to be out riding for <$500.

I'd rebuild the Diamondback V-Link which was a very nice ride but the frame is far too small.

I'd rebuild the Cannondale V-3000 as the size is perfect but the ride was awful from the back end. It looks really cool though.

Hey Fran,
I've been looking for a 29er mtb or frame for a while now and they're too new gen for most to be selling yet. The ones that do sell are normally $2K plus.
Is the XL Trance you've got yr eye on a 26" wheel option or 29er?
I had a 2008 Trance but found it too energy sapping as a XC bike, ok as all mountain but for XC fast stuff, get an Anthem.
If you want a 2007 Kona Kikapu fully, with RP3 rear shock, 5 inch Marzocchi Bombers on front, mint condition, let me know....cheap as bro;)

[NordieBoy]

Hey Fran,
I've been looking for a 29er mtb or frame for a while now and they're too new gen for most to be selling yet. The ones that do sell are normally $2K plus.
Is the XL Trance you've got yr eye on a 26" wheel option or 29er?
I had a 2008 Trance but found it too energy sapping as a XC bike, ok as all mountain but for XC fast stuff, get an Anthem.
If you want a 2007 Kona Kikapu fully, with RP3 rear shock, 5 inch Marzocchi Bombers on front, mint condition, let me know....cheap as bro;)

It's a 26" as far as I can tell. $250 for frame and shock.

[NordieBoy]

Giant Trance X3 looks good.
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[Rosie]

Fitness training for "proper" adventure biking of course...

Nothing wrong with "improper" adventure biking. Like motorbikes, every bike is a compromise, but unlike motorbikes, I can afford to run three of them :sunny:

Single speeds for the trails in whaka:

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/Kawa_Rosie/27RosieonCorridor_zpsd1b2417c.jpg

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/Kawa_Rosie/35ClintJump_zps58e825b7.jpg

Geared bikes for expeditions:

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/Kawa_Rosie/152ClintonForestRd_zps4c587766.jpg

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/Kawa_Rosie/71BushBash_zps4a846c25.jpg

And (single speed) town hacks for riding to the pub:

http://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/Kawa_Rosie/P1010008-1_zps2ef91f6a.jpg

Sorry for the tiny photos. I am afraid of wet bus tickets :o

[Willdat?]

Thanks Will I just went back & saw that. looks bloody cheap deal actually with free shipping to NZ too!!

The jump to a squish is very life-changing. Some hardcore hard-tail racers don't like the bobbing effect when climbing however I found more traction uphill with the squish. I started with a Gen 1 Trance - 4inch travel then went to a Santa cruz Nomad with about 6inch travel. I couldn't keep up with the fit technical guys I was riding with anymore so stopped doing the big knarly stuff & now lonewolf it nana style - much more fun. Consequently I swapped bikes back to a 2005 Speccy Stumpjumper & I love it. It is like a Toyota corolla or DRZ400- nothing particularly special about it but handles everything I can throw at it & is soooo comfortable, reasonably light & responsive.

If you are looking at a fully sus I would be looking at something around the $2K mark second hand unless you know of someone that looks after their bikes well. I just paid out $90 for a couple of bits of rubber for the front brake reservoir.

Hmmmm, maybe I'll keep hardtailing for a while longer then, my bike was $550 NEW in 2006 and I'm not really out performing it (Avanti Atomic DISC!). Had a play on a mates Giant Reign and I loved the traction under brakes (and climbing) where as I tend to be skittering over the top.

[NordieBoy]

My bikes at the moment are...

Diamondback V-Link 3 frame with a cracked suspension pivot and shagged rear suspension bushes.
<img src=http://sports.nelson.geek.nz/motorsport/mybikes/Pushies/slides/BuildingWheel.jpg>

Avanti something - Their first fat tube alloy road bike.
<img width=640 src=http://sports.nelson.geek.nz/motorsport/mybikes/Pushies/slides/20040926-132942.jpg>

Cannondale Super V3000 frame with cracked strut.
<img width=640 src=http://sports.nelson.geek.nz/motorsport/mybikes/Pushies/slides/CannondaleSuperV3000-20040919-141044.jpg>

Avanti Blade CycloCrosser - Mine on left and on right, what they looked like originally.
<img src=http://sports.nelson.geek.nz/motorsport/mybikes/Pushies/slides/20121214-165719.jpg>

And a Diamondback Vectra Sport hardtail I don't have a photo of.

Weirdly, the Vectra Sport gets good reviews for it's ergos and geometry.
I may have to fiddle a bit more with the stem and bars. Maybe stick my spare forks on it too...
I'd stick a rigid fork on it but my step-son would disown me.

[NordieBoy]

Just been measuring up, and with bar/stem tweaks I should be able to get the geometry of the Vectra similar to the Blade.

Which would be cheap :woohoo:

Although I snapped it's chain getting fush n chups the other night :facepalm:



Got some carbon 'cross forks on the way for the Blade too :innocent:

[Rosie]

Hmmmm, maybe I'll keep hardtailing for a while longer then, my bike was $550 NEW in 2006 and I'm not really out performing it (Avanti Atomic DISC!). Had a play on a mates Giant Reign and I loved the traction under brakes (and climbing) where as I tend to be skittering over the top.

Avanti Atomic FTW! :D I had my atomic for about 9 years (it spent most of that time as a single speed, so wasn't exactly stock).

[NordieBoy]

Seems like most of my "issues" with the MTB are from the bars being too far back and too high...
Transferring too much weight to the back wheel when climbing = wheelies every power stroke - Yep.
Not enough weight on the front when descending = vague, skittish front end - Yep.

The forks are Marzzocchi Bomber air/oil forks and I should be able to get more travel by adding oil/reducing the air volume as there's a good 8-10cm of travel left if you pop the fork caps off. So another 5cm should be safe to try. Bugger is, you lose 4psi every time you measure the pressure. 32psi seems about right at the moment for race sag.

[nzspokes]

If you guys need any advice on repairing a bicycle just ask. Ive been a bicycle mechanic for a lot of years. Not on the tools anymore but still in the trade.

[NordieBoy]

How the fcuk do I lace up my 700c rear CX wheel so it's vertically true?

MTB wheels, no problem, motorbike wheels, no problem, front 700c CX wheel, no problem.

This rear bugger on the cyclocross bike, problem...

[Padmei]

Avanti Atomic FTW! :D I had my atomic for about 9 years (it spent most of that time as a single speed, so wasn't exactly stock).

Pah! my Avanti Barracuda with lime green shocks would spit on your Atomics tyres.

I have to say I am quite keen on turning my old Schwinn roadie into a fixie- I'd never ride it but it would look cool. Steel is real!!

I had one of these in the early nineties- heavy as Frick but everybody did look at it's fantastically subtle paint work. had a poklystyrene helmet with netting over it the same colours - wow!!

http://www.mtb-news.de/forum/showthread.php?t=478926

[BMWST?]

i have done the rainbow rage and round the lake a few times.I like my old "xc" fully,just enough suspension to take the hits and help with traaction but not so much you feel as though you are losing all your energy,Both the road and mountain bike havent seen the light of day for a couple years...whatever you do if you ride on the road at night please make sure you have some decent lights and that they are actually working,i was so close to cleaning up a cyclist tonight i saw him at the last moment on the motorway in the rain.His back light was flashing but very dim and i was hemmed in by a 4wd on the right and the cyclist was right out on the white line.
Some of the front lights on bike these days need a low beam!

[CrazyFrog]

It looks like my investment property will be sold this week, so I could be shopping for new toy soon.............
and look at this KTM goodie I found. http://www.ktmbike.com.au/bikes/scarp-prime-13.html

Ahhh shit, and then I saw the price, :eek5: okay maybe just a Giant Anthem 29er then.

[Brian d marge]

got it , pure genius !!!

i present .......

the



CHOPPER !!!!!

281515

Stephen

[nzspokes]

How the fcuk do I lace up my 700c rear CX wheel so it's vertically true?

MTB wheels, no problem, motorbike wheels, no problem, front 700c CX wheel, no problem.

This rear bugger on the cyclocross bike, problem...

Are you using a truing stand? Vertical is just a case of loosen the low spots and tighten the highs. But if the rim is old or cheap they can be a bitch.

[nzspokes]

It looks like my investment property will be sold this week, so I could be shopping for new toy soon.............
and look at this KTM goodie I found. http://www.ktmbike.com.au/bikes/scarp-prime-13.html

Ahhh shit, and then I saw the price, :eek5: okay maybe just a Giant Anthem 29er then.

Get a Lapierre X Flow. :love:

[Padmei]

Whats with the lapierre thing at the mo? We had a whole lot dumped here in Nelson for really cheap so everyone bought one. I havdn't heard about them before.

[nzspokes]

Whats with the lapierre thing at the mo? We had a whole lot dumped here in Nelson for really cheap so everyone bought one. I havdn't heard about them before.

A Nelson dealer bought most of a shipment of them. Rest of the country missed out. your lucky in Nelson.

[NordieBoy]

Are you using a truing stand? Vertical is just a case of loosen the low spots and tighten the highs. But if the rim is old or cheap they can be a bitch.

Using a truing stand.
Old and cheap rim.
Pulled a cheap bike apart for the rims as they were the same as the ones on the Blade.

[nzspokes]

Using a truing stand.
Old and cheap rim.
Pulled a cheap bike apart for the rims as they were the same as the ones on the Blade.

Oh well keep at it then. Did you lube the nipples when you laced the rim. :blink:

[NordieBoy]

Oh well keep at it then. Did you lube the nipples when you laced the rim. :blink:

Yes, and looked fantastic in my fishnet singlet too.


I may have to get a better quality "new" rim as it's going to cop a bashing on the terrain here and these ones are just cheap Alex DA-16's.

[Padmei]

Is it bad that I kinda feel turned on now???

[NordieBoy]

Step away from the milo, tooo much sugar...

[Gremlin]

Is it bad that I kinda feel turned on now???
Depends if it was the fishnet singlet or the talk of bicycle parts.

Either way, I consider you weird, and I'm happy you're at the other end of the country (anything south of Bombay is of course the other end) :innocent:

[Padmei]

Depends if it was the fishnet singlet or the talk of bicycle parts.

Either way, I consider you weird, and I'm happy you're at the other end of the country (anything south of Bombay is of course the other end) :innocent:

I can & frequently do travel - when you least expect it................expect it:hug:

[R650R]

Well done rebuilding something older but you can get some great gear secondhand at moment.

I have one of these http://www.trademe.co.nz/sports/cycling/mountain-bikes/full-suspension/auction-582840733.htm but diff colour, one spec level down on components and no DRCV shocks n forks. Mines about 3 years old now, done about 4000km of fun riding and crashing on it.
Next bike will be all mountain setup 150+mm travel or maybe downhill bike. Had hardtail and played on a mates carbon fibre one but full suspension is where its at for me.
The best thing to do is ride motorbike in morning then go for mountainbike ride afterwards :)

[NordieBoy]

The geometry's are very similar.
Just need to adjust the MTB seat and play with the bar position.

281600

The Bomber EXR's are only 8cm travel no matter what I do to oil/air levels, but I checked Marzocchi's latest x-country forks and they're still only 8cm travel.

[Padmei]

The geometry's are very similar.
Just need to adjust the MTB seat and play with the bar position.

The Bomber EXR's are only 8cm travel no matter what I do to oil/air levels, but I checked Marzocchi's latest x-country forks and they're still only 8cm travel.

Woah steady on with all that suspension there young fella- you'll be jumping off curbs next.

[NordieBoy]

Woah steady on with all that suspension there young fella- you'll be jumping off curbs next.
First things first, been wearing my baseball cap backwards to get in the right mindset :yes:

[barrie]

The trance sounds good, you can get some great deals on 26" second hand bikes with good spec for under $1000, everyone wants a 29er so the 26ers are cheap as chips, if you are doing alot of technical downhill trails the 26" will probabaly suit the purpose better anyway.
As one of the other guys mentioned try and get out night riding too, if that does"nt sharpen your reflexes I don't know what will, I almost hit a horse that was stood directly across a trail last night!



It's a 26" as far as I can tell. $250 for frame and shock.

[Padmei]

Have a looksie on trademe at the mo barrie - there aren't many good bikes on there for cheap. There were a while ago. I thought the 29er thing was a fad but it seems the 27.5er is a fad inside a fad.
Each to their own I spose.

I reckon this is a very good buy - only biased cos I have 2 of them.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.asp?id=584299161&cc=602&pid=262429415&hbc=&ct=link

I may get out for a ride this weekend & get the bike covered in mud.

[NordieBoy]

As one of the other guys mentioned try and get out night riding too, if that does"nt sharpen your reflexes I don't know what will, I almost hit a horse that was stood directly across a trail last night!

Ride a cyclocross bike on mtb tracks. That'll sharpen your reflexes. 33mm wide tyres and no suspension.

[NordieBoy]

Just put some nice Specialized carbon forks on the Crosser tonight.
Scratched the carbon too :(

There's a bit of bar flex now with the alloy steerer that I didn't notice before with the Cr-Mo forks but I'll have to ride it to see if it helps or hinders.
A bit of flex may reduce the shocks slightly.

It looks coooool though...

:Punk:

Had to get a new 9 speed cluster for the MTB as the old cluster, new chain and old dérailleur combined to make the chain jump a tooth every crank revolution.
Got a new SRAM dérailleur squirrelled away in the Emporium and a mech at the LBS is selling me some old SRAM shifters.

[NordieBoy]

Shed morning today.
A lot of flex from the crosser bars but I'm not sure how much of it is the carbon forks with alloy steerer or the really wide drop bars.
Either way, I think the flex will be more a plus than a minus.
Felt quite good going over the rougher chip seal, far less of the high freq vibration through the bars.

Got a pair of 2nd hand SRAM X7 shifters for the MTB to go with the new chain and cluster and X5 dérailleur from TradeMe.
Shifts nicely now.

I'd take it out for a maiden voyage but Vic has already grabbed it for the afternoon :(

May be forced to take the crosser out dammit :)

[NordieBoy]

Damn :(
Seems like the MTB skips teeth still. You feel it in the back end, but it only does it in the middle front ring.
It's been doing this since I put the brand new chain on.
Still doing it with a new cluster and dérailleur...

I think I'll take it into the bike shop and see what they think.
It is overdue a new set of front cogs...

On the bright side, the CX bike went really nicely :headbang: Noticeably less vibes in the front end over the gravel/rocks.
On the brighter side, we were coasting down by the water treatment ponds and I passed Vic at speed going into the right hander...
The right hander full of muddy clay.
Wet muddy clay.
Just about shat myself with how much sideways movement I got.
But I managed to roost Vic perfectly :devil2:

[Padmei]

You did take the right amount of links out of the new chain didn't you? Is the chain the right type for the cluster?

[NordieBoy]

You did take the right amount of links out of the new chain didn't you? Is the chain the right type for the cluster?
I took out the right number of links for the old dérailleur which has a slightly longer cage.

It works in the small and big front cogs though.

9 speed SRAM chain, SRAM X5 9 speed dérailleur, 9 speed SRAM X7 shifters, 9 speed SRAM cluster.

The front cogs are about 7 years old though and the middle one is the most used...

[nzspokes]

Damn :(
Seems like the MTB skips teeth still. You feel it in the back end, but it only does it in the middle front ring.
It's been doing this since I put the brand new chain on.
Still doing it with a new cluster and dérailleur...

I think I'll take it into the bike shop and see what they think.
It is overdue a new set of front cogs...

On the bright side, the CX bike went really nicely :headbang: Noticeably less vibes in the front end over the gravel/rocks.
On the brighter side, we were coasting down by the water treatment ponds and I passed Vic at speed going into the right hander...
The right hander full of muddy clay.
Wet muddy clay.
Just about shat myself with how much sideways movement I got.
But I managed to roost Vic perfectly :devil2:

Front sprocket time.

[NordieBoy]

But the tooth jumping sound is def coming from the back end.

Good thing is the chain rings are 4 bolt, 104mm bcd ones, so quite common.

It even goes smoothly in the 42/11 gear which it's never done before :D

I've also got a new dérailleur dropout to try, just in case the old one is tweaked as it's off an even older bike...

[NordieBoy]

New front ring and it all works well, finally <_<

So who is the cheapest outfit to get some roadbike wheels shipped from the North Island?
Courierpost is $45. The last time I got a rear dirtbike wheel with knobbly, it was only $25 to ship...

[R650R]

New front ring and it all works well, finally <_<

So who is the cheapest outfit to get some roadbike wheels shipped from the North Island?
Courierpost is $45. The last time I got a rear dirtbike wheel with knobbly, it was only $25 to ship...

If you want cheap cheap you need to get a depo to depo with freight company. Seller would need to drop it at their depo and you pick up at your end.

[Padmei]

if anyone is in need of a great tyre, these maxxis high rollers are very hard to beat at this price - fast rolling & excellent traction also last a while too.

https://www.torpedo7.co.nz/division/bike/picklist/290413_1

[NordieBoy]

Just got some Maxxis Raze and Specialized Houffalize tyres for the crosser.

Will use the Raze for the short course MTB Duathlon next weekend at Rabbit Island.

Some Avid Elixir R brakes are going on the MTB to replace the old cable discs...

[NordieBoy]

Wow. One fingered braking is not overrated :headbang:

Now to replace the pads and get some new fluid in them.

I'm running my old 160mm discs as I think the 185 and 205mm ones they came with would be slight overkill :rolleyes:

[Padmei]

I quite like the feeling of being overbraked - saves paying a good chiropractor clicking your neck all the time -just a hearty handful of front gets your neck realigned for free.


I went & rode Firball this avo - the track is superb. They have bermed all the bad corners & put a culvert where there was a bottom out hidden dip.

You know that feeling of tired warm legs in trackies after a hard ride - can't beat it.

I'm looking at doing the Heaphy soon. You can fly back to takaka for $200 - not bad considering a tank of gas is about $120 & 5 hrs driving is a PITA.

[Kickaha]

I'm running my old 160mm discs as I think the 185 and 205mm ones they came with would be slight overkill :rolleyes:
I'm just looking at going up to those sizes, currently 160/185, you can never have to much brake (and I get a bit scared going to fast downhill)

[NordieBoy]

Biked up to 3rd House and back to the Tantragee and then around the golf course and home.
Nowhere did I feel the bike was under braked at all.
Just need to bleed them through with new fluid and set the pad clearance properly.

[NordieBoy]

The 185mm would look cool though...

[NordieBoy]

The 185mm would look cool though...

Although having said that, I'm using a Maxxis Worm Drive front tyre with a file tread and any more disc may overcome it a little too easily...

[Kickaha]

Just back from 2 x 15km laps of McLeans Island, took 1hr 20,there's plenty way faster than me but that's 5 minutes faster than normal, time to hook up the lights for a few night rides now

[Willdat?]

I'm looking at doing the Heaphy soon. You can fly back to takaka for $200 - not bad considering a tank of gas is about $120 & 5 hrs driving is a PITA.

I did the Heaphy last year and flew back too, choice option, also required one less day of 'leave'. Panniers not recommended...

[Padmei]

I did the Heaphy last year and flew back too, choice option, also required one less day of 'leave'. Panniers not recommended...

I did it back in 94-5 & took 3 days with full panniers. It was horrible. The swing bridges were so hard to get across & the track was pretty busy. There were places where the culverts were about 4 m apart so wasn't worth jumping back on the bike.
Not many people had done it then (we were in Akland) & noone told us about taking extra brake pads for our state of the art Y brakes. half way in I was wondering where all the steel wool on the missus' bike hub was coming from. Then the wall of the back tyre ripped & half the tube was hanging out in a big bulge which buckled my wheel.

And it rained most of the time:rolleyes:

The trampers did not like mtbers being there. Funny thing is most trampers now mtb too so the conflict is a lot less.

Sooooo why am I going again?:weird:

[JATZ]

I did it back in 94-5 & took 3 days with full panniers. It was horrible. The swing bridges were so hard to get across & the track was pretty busy. There were places where the culverts were about 4 m apart so wasn't worth jumping back on the bike.
Not many people had done it then (we were in Akland) & noone told us about taking extra brake pads for our state of the art Y brakes. half way in I was wondering where all the steel wool on the missus' bike hub was coming from. Then the wall of the back tyre ripped & half the tube was hanging out in a big bulge which buckled my wheel.

And it rained most of the time:rolleyes:
:

Sounds just like the trip I did back in about 97 :D
Although I took 2 days, didn't have panniers and it snowed.
Actually.....the only similarity is I didn't take spare brake pads either, ended up going down from Mackay hut to the Heaphy river only using the front brake sparingly :eek:

[Willdat?]

I did it back in 94-5 & noone told us about taking extra brake pads for our state of the art Y brakes. half way in I was wondering where all the steel wool on the missus' bike hub was coming from. Then the wall of the back tyre ripped & half the tube was hanging out in a big bulge which buckled my wheel.

Sooooo why am I going again?:weird:

With discs you'll chew through way less pads...I had two full sets spare and didn't even wear through half the set I started with.

Part of the reason you'll be doing it is the 2 Km board walk section...it's epic, I was almost tempted to turn around and go back so I could ride it again.

Some of the bridges have been converted from swingers now which is grand. If I was doing it again I'd just push through all the crossings.

Next multi-day bike trip for me will be

http://www.oldghostroad.org.nz/

[Padmei]

Wow cool - never heard of it before. cheers

[NordieBoy]

Some time ago, I was looking around the Ghost Trail area, trying to see if it could be done by motorbike.
There's a few paper roads in there but it came to nowt.

[Padmei]

I was planning on going for a ride tonite - you know outside where it is dark, cold & kinda spooky.

But instead I am now slouching in front of the laptop with a belly full of smoked chicken & pisto pasta salad.


Am I bad?

[Brian d marge]

I’m off around Japan on Tuesday , the bike ain’t nothing special , cheap Chinese fold-able 26 inch ,,,would love to lighten it

anyway all up incl gear comes to 36 kg ......

unfortunately I still have internet on this trip so , no ya cant get rid of me that fast

Stephen

[NordieBoy]

Am I bad?

Yes.

Stop slouching.

[NordieBoy]

Mountain bike duathlon this morning!

I'm doing the short option 'cause I'm a wimp.

Should take 55 min if all goes well.

Back in the day, it would've taken about 40-45 min.

[Kickaha]

Mountain bike duathlon this morning!

I'm doing the short option 'cause I'm a wimp.

Should take 55 min if all goes well.

Back in the day, it would've taken about 40-45 min.

Heading out to Mcleans again, for 15-30 km depending on how rooted I am after lap 1 and will start night riding in the next week or so

[NordieBoy]

53min :woohoo:

I didn't walk at all!

Except one hill on the MTB section, but everyone was pushing bikes up that one...

Then biked home via the cycleway...

[Kickaha]

Did 32km this morning but wasn't feeling the love on the second lap, starting on some night rides this week

Supposedly burnt 1220 calories so I had three streaky bacon sandwhiches with coke to make up for it

[NordieBoy]

The race and ride home burned 920 calories each.


I can feel the fitness just pouring into my body.

Or is that beer?

[Kickaha]

The race and ride home burned 920 calories each.

I think whatever you take out you really need to put back in:drinknsin

[NordieBoy]

I think whatever you take out you really need to put back in:drinknsin

Not if you're trying to lose weight...

Dammit...

[Kickaha]

Not if you're trying to lose weight...
I found it easier to buy bigger clothes

[Padmei]

Ok you calorie counters.
I did involution today up Marsden Valley. http://www.nelsonmountainbikeclub.org.nz/marsden-valley-mountainbike-track-nelson-new-zealand

I spent about an hour in granny gear up the hill climbing 500 +M odd. it wasn't pretty & at one stage I think I was sweating blood. I don't have a HRM but I was in the pharrk me bugger this for a game of soldiers zone of effort. How many calories do ya reckon I would have burnt & more importantly how many chunky kitkat bars would that be if they are 247 calories.

Next question. if a train left the bottom of the track heading upwards at a speed of 350kmh as I left the top heading down the track at about 20kmh would I be able to stop in time trying to use the brakes with the death grip I developed on the way down?

[Kickaha]

& more importantly how many chunky kitkat bars would that be if they are 247 calories.
Cant help you there I work my rides out in cans of coke

[NordieBoy]

It'd be getting pretty close to 4 kitkats by the sound.

You could stop no problem, but the train probably won't.

You should be good though as trains are never on time...

[NordieBoy]

There was someone else at the race on a cyclocross bike!

I am not alone!

Alone

Alone

Alone

Alone

What's that echo?

Hello! Anyone there?

There

There

There

:apint:

Next race is the same course.
Definitely taking the crosser next time too. Virtually nothing that needed suspension or even balloon tyres...

[Kickaha]

Still been going out each weekend, upped the distance to 34km today and off to do a bit of riding around the Port hills on Monday,haven't ridden Rapaki for a few months so I think it's going to be hard work

[Brian d marge]

3/4 of the way around Japan on a cheap Chinese MTB,,, all good so far , how many calorie s is that

Stephen

[NordieBoy]

3/4 of the way around Japan on a cheap Chinese MTB,,, all good so far , how many calorie s is that

Stephen

Depends how much beer has been involved...

[Padmei]

3/4 of the way around Japan on a cheap Chinese MTB,,, all good so far , how many calorie s is that

Stephen

I'd be more worried about your MSG count.

What's it like over there touring?

[Brian d marge]

Mmmmm
Off the coastal roads it quiet and nice , with 7/11 almost every where. I am having morning coffee , nice to outside a 7/11 now as it happens
Its hot
Its also difficult to find a place to free camp , water being a problem both to drink and to wash
The people are amazing ,

I'm up near akita north ,its 7 in the morning and the heat is coming on
,plastic and trucks are destroying Japan ...

OK coffee over , onward McDuff

Stephen

[Padmei]

c
The people are amazing ,


Why? Apart from being really good at Karate of course...

[NordieBoy]

Soooo....

Anyone know how to re-space a Mavic Aksium rear hub from 130mm to 135mm?
Thinking of a Crossride axle with a bit of machining to allow for the different bearing spacing...

[nzspokes]

Soooo....

Anyone know how to re-space a Mavic Aksium rear hub from 130mm to 135mm?
Thinking of a Crossride axle with a bit of machining to allow for the different bearing spacing...

Just get a Shimano quick release, steel one. Do it up nice and tight. She will be sweet. :eek5:

[NordieBoy]

Just get a Shimano quick release, steel one. Do it up nice and tight. She will be sweet. :eek5:

It's a beefy alloy frame and I suppose each chain stay is only moving 2.5mm...

A Crossride axle is $95...

[Willdat?]

Those lights linked to early on in the thread aren't available any more. These look similar so I bought 3 of 'em...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/130606661917?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

[Rosie]

Those lights linked to early on in the thread aren't available any more. These look similar so I bought 3 of 'em...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/130606661917?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

1200 Lumens? US$27? Not much to complain about there :sweatdrop

They look identical to our ones. But brighter :(

[Kickaha]

1200 Lumens? US$27? Not much to complain about there :sweatdrop

Or 1600 lumens for $19.99US http://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-CREE-XML-T6-1600-Lumens-Rechargeable-LED-Headlamp-Headlight-2x-18650-SET-A1-p-48370.html

Been out twice this week with this light, probably doesn't quite have the spread I'd like but more than adequate for my riding
I cut the straps off and have the whole lot mounted on my helmet and dont really notice it, meant to be about 250gm

I'd actually rather run the old 12v Halogen as that was awesome but the 1kg battery I had to lug around puts me off that

[nzspokes]

I'd actually rather run the old 12v Halogen as that was awesome but the 1kg battery I had to lug around puts me off that

Get a Shorai.

1600 lumens? Isnt that more than most motorbikes putting out? How fast are you guys? :bleh:

[Kickaha]

1600 lumens? Isnt that more than most motorbikes putting out? Fuck knows


How fast are you guys? :bleh: pretty average

I also tried the strobe setting for a couple of hundred metres but that was doing my head in

[nzspokes]

I also tried the strobe setting for a couple of hundred metres but that was doing my head in

I tried riding in the forest once with strobe on. It didnt end well.

[NordieBoy]

Would've looked cool before it ended though...

[NordieBoy]

Started transferring the bits off my hard tail onto the Santa Cruz Blur XC frame today.
Only need a new seat post, front derailleur and steering bearings.

Tempted to make it 2x9 but I'll try a few rides first and see how it goes...

[NordieBoy]

From...
284740

To...
284739

Me likey...

[NordieBoy]

:wings: Cyclocross race series in Nelson this season! :wings:

Starts Sunday :shit:

Forecast for rain <_< and cold :confused:

Should be perfect :eek:

[Gremlin]

Has anyone tried a fork mount bracket on mtb suspension forks? If I need to be more precise, they would be RockShox Recon TK forks. Just wondering about clearing the bottom of the fork, where road bike forks are much narrower. Can't see these brackets in NZ, so I'd have to order from overseas...

http://www.etrailer.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/pics/T/H/TH821_500.jpg

[Ransom]

Has anyone tried a fork mount bracket on mtb suspension forks? If I need to be more precise, they would be RockShox Recon TK forks. Just wondering about clearing the bottom of the fork, where road bike forks are much narrower. Can't see these brackets in NZ, so I'd have to order from overseas...



Those work fine for mtb std qr spacing too just be aware you are holding onto the most expensive part of tour bike

Non thule price ones are cheap at your local bike shop just drill bolt to your roof bars or clamp around them or buy a cheap length of alloy channel

rear wheel must be tied down - not just bungyed

A warning sticker on the dash of the car helps too before you find out what is strongest - bike / mount / roof rack or carport = carport usually wins

they also work very well mounted in ute beds just behind the rear window

[Gremlin]

Ah, I shall visit a LBS to see if I can get one.

There will be no 4 wheeled vehicle involved in the mounting :shifty: Nor will either wheel be in the frame.

[Ransom]

Ah i see sounds like a cunning plan for mtb bike rack on the back of adv bike ?

huge thread about that on advrider with some great and not so great ideas

Front fork in clamp and something to hold just under the bottom bracket seems to work well and some holders for the wheels

[Gremlin]

Ah i see sounds like a cunning plan for mtb bike rack on the back of adv bike ?

huge thread about that on advrider with some great and not so great ideas

Front fork in clamp and something to hold just under the bottom bracket seems to work well and some holders for the wheels
Yeah (on all counts). The advrider thread mostly shows the front fork on the rear rack or similar, rest of the bike hanging out the arse. Don't like that idea on multiple points.

Idea is across the rear seat (without seat), wheels either side of the frame creating a support triangle, and panniers and top box still able to be used. Bicycle should be just over 1m long, bugger all difference to the panniers, as it's a GSA, so big already. Pity is, very few pictures of this method exist... I was trying to go fancy with extending arms to adjust to different size bike frames, and mounts in a U shape (or each side an L shape). Since I suck at all engineering/mechanical stuff, mark I is 4x2 or similar, with fork mount on one end, padding under bottom bracket the other end.

Most I've mentioned it to, think I'm crazy, so no dramatic news there. Makes sense to me, otherwise I'd have to transport both motorbike AND mtb bike... makes no sense to me :wacko:

[Ransom]

Roger that sounds like a plan
the other way to get mounts is to use old hubs with qr s especially for the rear mount 135mm spacing
Average mtb is not gonna block much wind sitting crosswise on a bike with big panniers and topbox

[Gremlin]

I was initially going with a rear wheel mount as well, but how to make an adjustable length wheelbase on the rack for different bikes did my head in. Made more sense simply to pad and strap the bottom bracket, which a lot seem to do.

Because the mtb bike is a 22" frame, I actually noticed the fork, bottom bracket and rear hub are almost in line, instead of a V shape (which meant I would need both mounts in the air on uprights, creating a large U in the rack). Still figured grabbing fork and bottom bracket would make life easier, as long as the chainwheel had clearance over the bike.

Still, the idea is very much in my crazy head space, but should be achievable. As you say, I don't think a mtb frame will create much wind resistance. If I can manage that, then I'll consider aluminium track in mark II or III

[nzspokes]

I think we may have something like that mount kicking around work. Will try to remember to look tomorrow. I would be looking to adapt a roof rack system.

[Padmei]

I bought some cheap roof rack mounts once but never really felt safe - my bikes weren't expensive tho.

I was tossing around a rack & the one I thought I'd copy is the one on the Vstrom on the adv site. The bike sits to one side running alongside the seat a bit out from the seat. The rider said it was quite good position.
I have a ready made prorack that only needs a couple of stand out brackets.

[Padmei]

You guys prob have already seen this as it's doing the rounds but this video really fascinates me.
Check out the pilots legs - & how he looks to be trying really hard to keep it balanced.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/syJq10EQkog" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[nzspokes]

You guys prob have already seen this as it's doing the rounds but this video really fascinates me.
Check out the pilots legs - & how he looks to be trying really hard to keep it balanced.


Hes a handy rider by the looks. And by the team kit and its based on a Cervelo he will be a team rider. I would also guess hes leaning as there would be some flex in the rig.

But thats a great vid. Thanks for sharing.

[Gremlin]

I think we may have something like that mount kicking around work. Will try to remember to look tomorrow. I would be looking to adapt a roof rack system.
Oh, ta. Let me know. I've stayed away from buying a full roof rack type system mainly for cost at the moment. Usually a couple of hundred, whereas a test is a bit of 4x2 (lying around), the fork mount ($30-40 ish) and a bit of time. If it works out, then yeah, would probably upgrade. Thing is, I would cut down the rack anyway, as the rear wheel won't sit on it.

Yeah, I liked the vid too... just need to make it a "little" smaller.

[NordieBoy]

:wings: Cyclocross race series in Nelson this season! :wings:

Was quite slick...

[NordieBoy]

Got some new (old) wheels for the MTB.

1,400g is quite light isn't it?

8 radial spokes one side on the front, 16 3cross the other.
12 and 16 spokes on the rear.

I don't think I'll ever be able to do these beasties justice.

They're a 4 year old pair of Specilized Roval Control SL's.

[NordieBoy]

Another Cyclocross race today. Out at Saxton Field. Much, much more fun than the last one.
Bogs, hills, single track, 45deg off camber corners, sand. The grass bits were firm though and didn't suck your energy.
No leaves to pack up in the brakes either.

Didn't get last either :woohoo:

[NordieBoy]

Seeing as my GT200 is sparkless at the moment I'm spending more and more time on my mountain bike, night riding isn't something I'd really considered, but seeing as bedtime is 7ish for the boys it could be a good way to get a mid week ride in... I'll leave this here for later!

http://dx.com/p/ssc-p7-3-mode-900-lumen-led-headlamp-bike-light-set-4-18650-50947

Just got one off TM.

I like.

Once these spots in my eyes go away....

[NordieBoy]

Oh wow.

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/70921986" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

[badlieutenant]

+1 for WOW

[NordieBoy]

:D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPHSj18DvU4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[NordieBoy]

The Blur XC is now running SRAM X0 shifters, X5 9 speed 11-34 back end, X7 2 speed 22/36 front.
I like it. I like it a lot.
Will change the 22 front for a 24 though. Was going to go for a 26, but after today, I think a 24 would match up well.

[R650R]

Been experimenting with slider rig for video work, bit of an art to moving it smoothly and right speed.
Turn sound off before watching, thought I had disabled it but no. Moving to off camera sounds soon to avoid all background operational noise.
Anyway here's some close up of my adventure pushie with over 4000km on clock.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RDlgAlT7wsg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Padmei]

Excellent stuff. Show us the slider tho - that wil be more interesting.

[R650R]

Excellent stuff. Show us the slider tho - that wil be more interesting.

You can see it in here, just a basic manual version, not one of the fancy Kessler motorized ones that are way more expensive.

http://www.kamerar.com/

[Padmei]

You can see it in here, just a basic manual version, not one of the fancy Kessler motorized ones that are way more expensive.

http://www.kamerar.com/

I've been checking out KAP - kite aerial photography. I was thinking about how to tow a kite or suchlike behind the bike to get a bit of a different POV from the usual.
http://arch.ced.berkeley.edu/kap/gallery/gal196.html

It will be a bit of trial & error to see if it works but something stupid to try I guess.

Off topic but this subject is probably the first I've googled that has come up with pommie sites first.


WoW
http://digital-photography-school.com/61-amazing-kite-aerial-photography-images

[NordieBoy]

Telescoping beach caster with a gopro mounted to the end?
It'd get more use that way than as a fishing rod...

[NordieBoy]

Oh! A gopro and sinker on a beach caster line. Cast into clear(ish) water and reel it in...

[Padmei]

Oh! A gopro and sinker on a beach caster line. Cast into clear(ish) water and reel it in...

New age fishing - the thrill of the catch without the inhumanity.

How'd the cyclocross go?

[NordieBoy]

New age fishing - the thrill of the catch without the inhumanity.

How'd the cyclocross go?

Was glad I took the MTB...
It's the first time I've ever used full travel, would NOT have liked to ride the course on a crosser.
Would have ended up with 2 flat tyres and dented rims from the river bed, and broken forks from the g-outs.
Would have been easier to carry up the climbs though.

It was funny to see kids trying to carry/push their mtb's up the climbs and take up to a minute when I could dig my feet into the soft wet soil and stomp up in 10s.

It'd take them the rest of the lap to catch me again :(

[NordieBoy]

Biked out to the Hackett Hut and back via Clover Knob and Serpentine Rd.

A lot of walking/carrying the bike heading to the hut.

Can't believe there's logging tracks within a few hundred meets of the Hackett Hut.

Tubeless tyres and race wheels went well. Wheels still straight at the end and the same air pressure at the end as at the start.

[NordieBoy]

Well, after last weekend's x-country race, I decided I needed a dropper post. There were a few tight corners with steps/roots and small drops I would walk down like a wuss as it felt like I was going to go over the bars and I can't get off the back of the seat properly. Well I can, but it takes a few minutes to get back onto the seat after...

My Specialized Command Post Blacklite arrived today :woohoo:

Installed easily, and of course, now its raining :(

[NordieBoy]

On the way back from this mornings job, I lowered the seatpost to the 3.5cm drop position and went down a couple of steps and under the Nile St bridge.
I've never been able to do that before :baby:

I think I'm hooked :rolleyes:

[Padmei]

I squashed a nut the other day on my ride - gonna have to go back to wearing a chamois - or sling my knackers over my shoulder while riding. At least I can sympathise with womens period pains even tho this is 100 times worser.:kick:

[Box'a'bits]

Far far far TMI IMHO :sick:. Over-sharing...

[Kickaha]

I'm off for a gentle 10-15km ride tomorrow, haven't been out for close to 3months so I'm sure it's going to hurt, back to riding 2-3 times a week and hill work in a week or two, training for the Motatapu 47km ride I've entered next March

[Padmei]

Far far far TMI IMHO :sick:. Over-sharing...

Want a pic?

[nzspokes]

I built one of these during the week. Holy bumsticks its nice.

http://www.lapierre-bikes.co.uk/mtb-big-mountain-spicy/spicy-team

Almost made me want to ride a mtb again. Then I had a beer......

[NordieBoy]

Now that's an adv mtb...

[nzspokes]

The electric shock is very cool.

[NordieBoy]

Checked the fork oil level tonight as it felt a bit lacking. It's fine :rolleyes:
Adjusted the air pressures front and rear to get the sag to more correcter levels and put the bar ends back on the riser bars :headbang:

[Willdat?]

Hunting down a L/XL Giant Trance or similar, if you know of something being under utilised let me know. Missed out on a 2009 Trance X0 last night :(

[NordieBoy]

Hunting down a L/XL Giant Trance or similar, if you know of something being under utilised let me know. Missed out on a 2009 Trance X0 last night :(

Dad's got one but I've got first dibs if it kills him...

I missed out on a set of X0 grip shifters last night :(

[Dave h]

The electric shock is very cool.

How are people liking the new Rockshox Pikes?

Was going to put them on my Giant Reign but ended up going with the marzocchi 55 coils

[NordieBoy]

May have posted this up before, but I don't care.
Talent on all types of bikes and biking...

Makes you sick really...
<object width="853" height="480"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/KDg1-tl-Ibo?hl=en_US&amp;version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/KDg1-tl-Ibo?hl=en_US&amp;version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="853" height="480" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>

[NordieBoy]

While waiting for a computer to finish churning, I went for a tootle up Jacks Track to Atmore Terrace, then up Firball to the Trig, back down Firball, P51 and some others...
Fark, it's a grind going up them buggers...

+100 :love: for the dropper post on the way back down. I would have given up after the first few switchbacks without it.

Even helped going up the switchbacks :Punk:

Never been up or down Jacks, Firball or P51 before :confused:

[NordieBoy]

Got a pair of Rock Shox SID Race off an '09 Specialized Epic coming :wings:
6 years newer than my Bombers and they have damping adjustment :headbang:

My Bombers hardly have damping...

[NordieBoy]

The Shox are quite nice :niceone:

Motion Control rather than the newer BlackBox, but still much better than 10 year old Bombers.

Set the +ve pressure, -ve pressure to get the sag, increase the -ve pressure 10psi to get small bump compliance (damn small -ve chamber and leaky pump :(), adjust the floodgate to get the bypass about right for pedal bob.

Oh bugger, now I've got to play with rebound damping...

Also upgraded the discs from the Shimano thingys that came with my old cable disc brake system years ago, to some Avid G3's that are significantly lighter and should cool down quicker.

[NordieBoy]

Was going to put the heavier duty wheels on with the knobblier tyres than the XC tubeless tyres on the Rivals.
But then I weighed the fronts to complete them.
The 36 spoke front with tube and Maxxis Larsen TT is 2,100g.
The 20 spoke Roval with Michelin Wild Race'R is 1,250g.

The rears would have a similar difference...


Light it is then...

[R650R]

I'm still running my Swampthings, can't be arsed changing them yet. Trying to get fit again so the extra weight and drag is beneficial :)
T7 Had special on them so picked up a 2.5 to go on front, already had a 2.35 on rear. Width wise the two sizes are identical, the 2.5 tread just wraps around a bit further on sides.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7404/10096279293_c75426bcaf.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77819625@N08/10096279293/)
20130913_9638 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77819625@N08/10096279293/) by DR650NZ (http://www.flickr.com/people/77819625@N08/), on Flickr

Worth about 1.3km avg speed on typical ride to go back to lighter/narrow tyres. Not sure about lightweight rims with some of my rough landings :)

[Kickaha]

Did a 16km ride this morning after not being out for "a while" averaged 18.9kmh around a track we used to average 22kmh, need to get the average and the distance back up

[Padmei]

I took my girls for a ride up to the picnic table Dun mountain.


They are now officially faster then me (9 & 11):facepalm:

[NordieBoy]

I took my girls for a ride up to the picnic table Dun mountain.


They are now officially faster then me (9 & 11):facepalm:

They need more pies...



Mmmmm, pies....

[Padmei]

They need more pies...



Mmmmm, pies....

You realise pastry is a vege don't you

[nzspokes]

Think I may get a 29er very soon. Cheap one. See if I can remember how to pedal.

[Padmei]

Think I may get a 29er very soon. Cheap one. See if I can remember how to pedal.

who would have thought a few years ago that a 26in fully suss 27 speed would be classed as old school ?:mellow:

There's a few fat bikes around here now.

[nzspokes]

who would have thought a few years ago that a 26in fully suss 27 speed would be classed as old school ?:mellow:

There's a few fat bikes around here now.

We have some Fat bikes coming in to. Not my cup of tea. But Im only getting a 29er so I can put 700 x 40 tyres on for road use.

[NordieBoy]

You realise pastry is a vege don't you
Noooooo!


who would have thought a few years ago that a 26in fully suss 27 speed would be classed as old school ?:mellow:

There's a few fat bikes around here now.
My 26" fully 18 speed is almost cool now.

I would like a Santa Cruz Tallboy Carbon though. A 29”, 120mm travel, XL frame, carbon version of my bike...


But Im only getting a 29er so I can put 700 x 40 tyres on for road use.
Cannondale Bad Boy 1.
Mmmmmm...

[NordieBoy]

I can do that...
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[Kickaha]

http://youtu.be/O46HJbbIWlA

[NordieBoy]

Epic indeed...

[Padmei]

That was fricking awesome - all the bikes landed in the same spot.

[Kickaha]

I can do that...
I cant, not even on the best day of my life

That was fricking awesome - all the bikes landed in the same spot.
I would have landed on my head broken my neck and every other bone in my body

[NordieBoy]

Chris Akrigg, 6 time British Trials Champ...
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[Padmei]

I would have landed on my head broken my neck and every other bone in my body

Amazing how young fellas bounce nowadays

[NordieBoy]

Round 2 of the XC series today.
For some reason, I was thinking it was something like 35min + 1 lap.
5*20min laps later :doh:

Yesterday I received and installed a set of 9 speed grip shifters and cut up and slid on a pair of ESI foam grips.

Fark!
I don't know if it was that or playing with the rebound damping or what but the bike feels totally different.
I was able to climb seated up some sections every lap that I couldn't when scouting the track, wheelies over rises were easier and even climbing out of the saddle felt totally different.
Not all to do with the damping...

I remembered why I like Grip Shift too :love:

My tri bike, road bike and old mtb were all Grip Shifters.

Oh shit. Just realised I've still got them...

Going to see if I can build a Diamond Back V-Link 3 up from bits for NordieStepSon2 to use at the Urban XC...

Oh, and who the hell felt that a pair of 20x27x4mm bearings was fine for a front mtb wheel?
288518
Nice and light though...

$28 each from NZ or 10c US from AliBaba, but you have to buy 10...

[NordieBoy]

Drained 100ml of oil from the forks and put the correct 94ml back in.
That might help get a little more travel out of the buggers.

But they also say 120psi is right for my weight but I've found 90psi works far better.

[Kickaha]

Did a 16km ride this week, up Rapaki track, over Mt Vernon, round the Bowenvale traverse and down Victoria park

Rapaki is the only hard bit as it's a steady 4km climb, by December I want to be able to do two laps

[NordieBoy]

Sunday's XC looks to be basically a steady forestry road climb (2km up Sharlands Rd from the car park) and a singletrack descent (What the DOCtor Ordered and Willow Lane).
Not sure how many laps.

Going out tomorrow to find out...
First time in Hira without at least 250cc...

[NordieBoy]

Sunday's XC looks to be basically a steady forestry road climb (2km up Sharlands Rd from the car park) and a singletrack descent (What the DOCtor Ordered and Willow Lane).

Ok...

It's a 2km steady forestry road climb up and basically, a narrow, no passing width, pump track back.

Not my idea of a cross country track at all :facepalm:

Only bonus is, the guns will be heli-biking up Ben Nevis tomorrow...
Pulled a 160mm front disc off NordieBro's bike and slapped a 203mm in it's place. Let's see if he can overheat that one...

[Padmei]

Must have been a big ride over marl today i saw some big wave riders heading over this morn. Maybe Whites bay tracks.
Def need 203s for any real munty stuff. My brakes used to trumpet down the old devils tail from fringe. A DH mate had some trick vented twin discs. Corse I did talk to a guy who rode without using his brakes much (wheres the tugger smilie)

The tracks are getting really overgrown at the mo with all the rain. we need more less serious crime to get a few more PD boys doing mintenance.

[NordieBoy]

The tracks are getting really overgrown at the mo with all the rain. we need more less serious crime to get a few more PD boys doing mintenance.

Came down Firball from beside IV Line and may have to invest in some Fox Bomber glubs for some gorse protection...

[Kickaha]

and may have to invest in some Fox Bomber glubs for some gorse protection...

I got some of those a few months ago, really good gloves

[Willdat?]

What happens when discs overheat? Fade/squeal? I've been riding Richmond hills and the Rameka (x2) the last few weekends with some long descents and I haven't had any issues with rubbish Tektro cable discs! Does that mean I'm going too slow in the first place?!

[Padmei]

What happens when discs overheat? Fade/squeal? I've been riding Richmond hills and the Rameka (x2) the last few weekends with some long descents and I haven't had any issues with rubbish Tektro cable discs! Does that mean I'm going too slow in the first place?!

yep fading & squealing & if you want to be part of the cool kids gang you can get yourself a free disc tattoo on the calf.

I boiled mine during a long really slow steep descent from a firebreak off Fringe one year- really steep & big cross ruts. I ended up with no brakes having to bail into a gorse bush to stop even greater damage to myself.
if you are moving without the brakes on the discs can cool quite quickly as they're quite thin. Brake pad quality is prob a factor.

[NordieBoy]

Overheating is usually fade, but more so with hydro than cable discs. No fluid to boil.
My disc tattoo took about a month to disappear :doh:

Sunday's XC race.
The kid I'm riding with as I enter the DH is Callum Bryant (http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/9266505/Tragic-end-to-a-full-life). We did 2 laps together. Couldn't get rid of the little bugger, but then again, he couldn't get rid of me either :scooter:
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[Kickaha]

My disc tattoo took about a month to disappear :doh:

I not sure mine is ever going away completely
http://sphotos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/482876_10151326130639499_1956337873_n.jpg
Thats what part of my 160mm rear disc looks like

[NordieBoy]

I not sure mine is ever going away completely
...
Thats what part of my 160mm rear disc looks like
It'll flake off just after you've got used to it...

I've just got some Avid 160's that are quite a bit more ventilated than my old Shimano's from my cable discs...

[Padmei]

That was a great vid Nordie. Where was it?

Damn shame about Rob Bryant. Didn't meet him that I can recall but went to playcentre with Julie & Callum - nice kid.

Instead of riding tonite I took the pup for a run along the Maitai - it's amazing that my legs remembered how to do it. They certainly remembered how to feel rooted afterwards... wheres those kitkats....mmmm exercise

[NordieBoy]

That was a great vid Nordie. Where was it?
From Sharlands carpark, up the road, back down What the DOCtor ordered and Willow Lane to the carpark.
Rinse and repeat 5 times :doh:

Need to remember to tilt the camera up more than I think it needs as well...

I only finished 5 places behind Warwick Spence in Vet 40-49 :woohoo:


Damn shame about Rob Bryant. Didn't meet him that I can recall but went to playcentre with Julie & Callum - nice kid.

Instead of riding tonite I took the pup for a run along the Maitai - it's amazing that my legs remembered how to do it. They certainly remembered how to feel rooted afterwards... wheres those kitkats....mmmm exercise

I'm meant to be doing a loop of Miyazu after my rides to get my legs back into it...
I keep forgetting :baby:

[nzspokes]

My new Adventure bike. Needs a little work. But not much. Just tyres and gear cables. Its not been ridden much as the wheels are original with almost no wear on the breaking surface. Chain has not stretched.

Well it will be an adventure riding it....

[NordieBoy]

A suspension seat! What will they think of next?

[NordieBoy]

Hmmmm........
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[NordieBoy]

Must have been a big ride over marl today i saw some big wave riders heading over this morn. Maybe Whites bay tracks.

Twas the Down Hill Race over that way.

Numbers were very down at the XC with the DH and Heli Ride on the same day.

NordieBro took about 50min from the Ben Nevis summit to the carpark.

[NordieBoy]

The Shox are quite nice :niceone:

Motion Control rather than the newer BlackBox, but still much better than 10 year old Bombers.

Set the +ve pressure, -ve pressure to get the sag, increase the -ve pressure 10psi to get small bump compliance (damn small -ve chamber and leaky pump :(), adjust the floodgate to get the bypass about right for pedal bob.

Oh bugger, now I've got to play with rebound damping...

Some RockShox SID Team forks arrived today :whistle:
BlackBox Motion Control for the compression damping and shims in the rebound damper.
The Race to Team difference is basically port orifice to shim stack damping.
Oh, and a bar remote for the lockout.

Felt more supple over the rocks/roots and after quickening up the rebound damping, felt like it wasn't skipping over the roots.

[Kickaha]

Some RockShox SID Team forks arrived today :whistle:
Where did you get them from Mr? my Rockshox Psylos have started leaking and been rebuilt once so I'm thinking of an upgrade but dont really know bugger all about front forks

Did the 16km loop up Rapaki, Mt Veron,Bowenvale traverse and down Victora park again yesterday, screwed up my approach onto one of the little bridges popped the front wheel
off the side into the bank on the exit and went over the bars, had to lie there for a minute to get my breath back, the hand I put out as I went over is still pretty damn sore:facepalm:

[nzspokes]

Where did you get them from Mr? my Rockshox Psylos have started leaking and been rebuilt once so I'm thinking of an upgrade but dont really know bugger all about front forks

Did the 16km loop up Rapaki, Mt Veron,Bowenvale traverse and down Victora park again yesterday, screwed up my approach onto one of the little bridges popped the front wheel
off the side into the bank on the exit and went over the bars, had to lie there for a minute to get my breath back, the hand I put out as I went over is still pretty damn sore:facepalm:

Just drop the lowers off them and clean the seals, easy. Or just chuck new ones in as they are very cheap.

[speeding_ant]

Finally some decent weather going on in Wellington. Got out for a good spin last weekend, Brooklyn -> Mt Vic -> Moa Point. Might go inspect one of my favourite tracks out at tunnel gully today, see what storm damage is done...

http://www.pinkbike.com/video/297131/

[Willdat?]

2008 Trance 0 on its way here later in the week, yus!

[NordieBoy]

Where did you get them from Mr? my Rockshox Psylos have started leaking and been rebuilt once so I'm thinking of an upgrade but dont really know bugger all about front forks

Did the 16km loop up Rapaki, Mt Veron,Bowenvale traverse and down Victora park again yesterday, screwed up my approach onto one of the little bridges popped the front wheel
off the side into the bank on the exit and went over the bars, had to lie there for a minute to get my breath back, the hand I put out as I went over is still pretty damn sore:facepalm:

Trademe...

I try not to fall off.

My "new" forks have the wheel offset about 6mm to the brake side.
Seems like a common issue with the RockShox in various models.
Filing 0.56mm off one side should be enough to correct it though.

[NordieBoy]

2008 Trance 0 on its way here later in the week, yus!

Nice, I think the Trance is the DRZ400 of the bike world.

After heading up to 3rd house yesterday, I think I'm going to have to get some more robust wheels. These ones handled it fine, but I'd prefer 32 spokes and 3 cross.

I also got stuck with the "just a little further" syndrome...
Ended up doing the 35km Coppermine loop from Codgers to the Maitai Dam.
I did even know there WAS such a thing!

Brilliant!
I'd even venture to say, epic!

Next time, I'm taking a charged camera, charged cell phone, charged SPOT and some food.
I was good for water...

Right hand has still got Ulnar Nerve issues dammit, but some ergo grips may help there...

[Willdat?]

Nice, I think the Trance is the DRZ400 of the bike world.
And the 5 speed issue is the lack of ground clearance?

[NordieBoy]

And the 5 speed issue is the lack of ground clearance?

Yeah, at least on the Trance you can change ratios easily...


Did the Urban Cross Country Race this evening.
Was wet...

I passed people who weren't broken down!

I rode down the front steps!

I crapped myself each time!

My newish wheels are still true!

Anyone want a set of 1350g Roval Control SL E5 tubeless ready's?
Beautiful wheels, but I'm never going to do them justice.

These Mavic XC717's will do the job for me quite nicely...

[pipe]

2008 Trance 0 on its way here later in the week, yus!

Good bike.i have a 2006 and 2008 trance 1
Should have a pump with that as well

[nzspokes]

A suspension seat! What will they think of next?

Started stripping it today, bearings are new. As in new never been ridden. Tyres are original, as are brakes etc.

Seems a shame to ride this off road.

But I will.

[NordieBoy]

Started stripping it today, bearings are new. As in new never been ridden. Tyres are original, as are brakes etc.

Seems a shame to ride this off road.

But I will.

Well, some even ride BMW's off road.
A Triumph should be no problem...

[NordieBoy]

Put some roller bearing dérailleur pullys in and some BBB locking ergo grip shift compatible grips on.
1.5hrs today and NO tingling fingers! Not as nice when standing, but very comfortable when seated.

[Willdat?]

Had my first ride on the Trance on Saturday. Set up for a 100kg rider so a little 'pingy' rather than plush. Need to borrow a shock pump to get sag set, otherwise excellent, climbs beautifully, looking forward to getting the hang of the frame geometry

[NordieBoy]

Might have a shock pump here somewhere...

[Padmei]

I have one here but to be honest you would be better just calling into a bikeshop & borrowing theirs as it is a once only deal. Are you in Richmond? I can give you the number of my mate Pierre who will set up your suspension in 2 secs. He knows his stuff.
I had a Trance (gen 1) as my first fully. It was a good reliable allround bike in a nice kinda glittery dark poo brown. I was riding with some big wave riders so put a spacer in the forks to get a bit more rake. Didn't give me more suspension - less I think but I wasn't so over my handle bars going down chutes. I would have kept it longer but it got stolen down Hanmer so I had to get a Nomad instead.
What size is it? What did you come off? If it was an old school hard tail the frame always seems to be less & smaller on a fully. (well i find that)

Your trance will be very much like my stumpy - I love my stumpy- it is so basic but so nice to ride. Where's the heart lovey dovey similie?

[NordieBoy]

I have one here but to be honest you would be better just calling into a bikeshop & borrowing theirs as it is a once only deal.

Once only?

I must be doing something wrong :scratch:

[Willdat?]

Are you in Richmond? I can give you the number of my mate Pierre who will set up your suspension in 2 secs. He knows his stuff.

I was riding with some big wave riders so put a spacer in the forks to get a bit more rake. Didn't give me more suspension - less I think but I wasn't so over my handle bars going down chutes.

What size is it? What did you come off? If it was an old school hard tail the frame always seems to be less & smaller on a fully. (well i find that)
Still in Richmond, cheers for the offer (and you Nordie!). I'd better take it to my mate Alex, these bike mechanics get all pissy when you cheat on them! Plus I think I might need to have my bottom bracket looked at.

Spacer sounds like an interesting idea, I can see climbing would become more of an issue though?

It's an XL (21") and I've come off a 19" Avanti hardtail so it feels quite a lot taller when dropping into corners, just something to get used to I guess.

[NordieBoy]

First round of the SuperD series this Wed evening...

Oh bugger, that's tonight!

[NordieBoy]

First round of the SuperD series this Wed evening...

Oh bugger, that's tonight!

I bet 2 people!

One 50+ woman and a <15 kid out of 40 odd people.

Not too shabby :D

Out of the whole 12 mins, I'd ridden the last 20s before...
Most of the track (IV Line) was quite overgrown with grass and only 15-20cm of track showing...

Disconcerting to only see a couple of metres in front when you're trying to race...

[NordieBoy]

Last round of the club XC series yesterday.
If we weren't doing technical climbing, we were doing technical descending.
It was the hardest race I've ever done.
It was NOT the race to experiment with a 1x9 setup.
Took me just under 2 hours to do 5 laps at an average of 9kph...

I finished the series in 5th overall in my age group out of 16.

[Padmei]

Well done. Most of those guys in your age group are bloody fit. It's funny how the downhills they use in the xc nowadays would have been used for downhill races 10 yrs ago

[NordieBoy]

Well done. Most of those guys in your age group are bloody fit. It's funny how the downhills they use in the xc nowadays would have been used for downhill races 10 yrs ago

I got 6th out of 7 yesterday and 4th place lapped me :D

My laps were 21min, 23, 23, 23, 24. I was getting slower up the hills but more confident down...
Lots of double arrow drops and a couple of triple arrow ones :crazy:

We were riding up sections of the SuperD downhill...
The arrowed drops were steeper than any in the SuperD on Wed.

I need to put the bike back to 2x9, put the ergo grips back on and do a lap like that and see how it feels.

[Padmei]

Firball track is a pure chickensoup for the soul.
You know how the Tour de Druggies store oxygenised blood during training then pump it in during the race, I'd love to be able to store a few pints of endorphinised blood to pumpback in during those cold rainy days.

[NordieBoy]

Firball goes off to the right from the trig? Nice and flowey. SuperD is from the trig again next Wed evening. Probably down Firball. They do a finish line curry too.

Pipilini has got some gnarly bits in it that I'm slowly learning to conquer without shitting myself.

Did a lap of the XC track today with a 20/32 front end rather than the race day 32 single.
Didn't push hard and did the same time as my best lap on Sunday.
I estimate I'd have been 12-15min quicker over the 5 laps with this gearing.
Also put the ergo grips back on and no tingling in the hands...

It helped that the tracks have had the side growth cut back today. Wish they'd done it last week <_< :first:

Cleaned the rear brake pads and disc and they still vibrate/squeal something chronic.
Got some Jagwire Coolstop pads coming.

[Padmei]

What on earth possessed you to race with the 1x9? Wait... did you have the walk shorts & tie on again?

[NordieBoy]

What on earth possessed you to race with the 1x9? Wait... did you have the walk shorts & tie on again?

No! Just the shirt.

[NordieBoy]

Jagwire brake pads = no squeeeeeel :niceone:

Finally got around to bleeding the brakes too.

Motorbike brakes are soooo easy compared.

Got the front done ok, but the rear?
Bled them completely, twice before coming to the conclusion the lever/master cylinder is leaking air...
Still work OK, just not as good as they could.

Another SuperD tonight from FireBall Trig.

[Gremlin]

So finally getting back into it, and trying not to avoid the slow death that is mountain biking (or walking when you've adopted the "fuck that" attitude) I'm actually impressed that I'm seeing a difference in fitness after only 3 rides in Woodhill. That's not to say I'm actually any good, just that I'm walking less...

On the flip side, I'm now having to learn all the little things... like the Avid Elixir brakes that came on the bike squeal like a bitch (when I'm not braking or pedalling)... *sigh* On the funny side (kinda), your mates yell at you to stop braking... oh the irony... Still, lessons being learnt so the next bike will be bought with a modicum of intelligence...

[Kickaha]

On the funny side (kinda), your mates yell at you to stop braking...
Tell them to get fucked, my brakes get a serious workout on any downhill because I get a bit scared if I go too fast

[NordieBoy]

So finally getting back into it, and trying not to avoid the slow death that is mountain biking (or walking when you've adopted the "fuck that" attitude) I'm actually impressed that I'm seeing a difference in fitness after only 3 rides in Woodhill. That's not to say I'm actually any good, just that I'm walking less...

On the flip side, I'm now having to learn all the little things... like the Avid Elixir brakes that came on the bike squeal like a bitch (when I'm not braking or pedalling)... *sigh* On the funny side (kinda), your mates yell at you to stop braking... oh the irony... Still, lessons being learnt so the next bike will be bought with a modicum of intelligence...

I just got new pads for my Avid Elixir's...

No more squealing...

[Padmei]

Tell them to get fucked, my brakes get a serious workout on any downhill because I get a bit scared if I go too fast

I have to admit I had to grow some balls to stop using the brakes all the time. One of those things that you know but is hard to put in practice at the time is to brake where you'll get traction. I've had quite a few times on some of our powdery trails where the back tyre decided it wanted to be the front tyre & tried to overtake it:laugh:

Good stuff Gremlin. It takes a bit of time but your fitness will return. Sometimes walking is good to stretch the old buuuuuttttocks

[Padmei]

Another SuperD tonight from FireBall Trig.

We're gonna have to get together & make up a vid of Firball. I have to go to the op shop 1st tho...

Do you have any spare micro sd cards - the contour only has 64kbs or something & I can envision lots of out takes:no:

[NordieBoy]

We're gonna have to get together & make up a vid of Firball. I have to go to the op shop 1st tho...
Only if I can ride the Crosser :love:


Do you have any spare micro sd cards - the contour only has 64kbs or something & I can envision lots of out takes:no:

Got some somewhere...

[Gremlin]

Tell them to get fucked, my brakes get a serious workout on any downhill because I get a bit scared if I go too fast
Nah, it's more that they're squealing so much we can barely talk to each other. If I do some pedalling or braking they stop... but with the squealing it seems like I'm constantly braking :) That said, I've learnt now (almost the hard way) how one second the brake pressure is good for keeping your speed under control, but as you hit a flat bit after a root, that same pressure has now stopped you dead and you're going over the bars...

Still, as long as the mates that keep going over the bars, I'm OK with that. :lol:


I just got new pads for my Avid Elixir's...

No more squealing...
Thanks for that... I've seen the Alligator brand on T7, and with the current special, they're so cheap I'll probably give it a crack. A mech at the bike park had a look and it's fixed for now, but could quite likely return... Others seem to say replacing the rotors could fix the problem as well...

[R650R]

I lost the brake squeal when I went to a 203mm rotor, not that I minded it, just want more stopping power.
Still using the cheapy T7 gator pads, nothing wrong with them at $8 a set :)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5542/10958747344_285f21c379.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77819625@N08/10958747344/)
20131120_2766d (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77819625@N08/10958747344/) by DR650NZ (http://www.flickr.com/people/77819625@N08/), on Flickr

[NordieBoy]

Using T7 JagWire pads on mine...

[Willdat?]

New grade 4 run in Richmond hills called Bermed Monster, should have signage up in the weekend, it's luverly!

[Padmei]

New grade 4 run in Richmond hills called Bermed Monster, should have signage up in the weekend, it's luverly!

How you finding the Trance Will? Easier climbing?

[Willdat?]

It's brilliant, it weighs less than my hardtail which does help the climbing. New bottom bracket on its way here will clean up a bit of clicking too. I'm starting to not notice the suspension which I guess is a good thing!

[Padmei]

Can you guys help?

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/162126-I-need-some-support-from-you-guys

[Kickaha]

Can you guys help?

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/162126-I-need-some-support-from-you-guys

No sympathy, you deserved it

[Kickaha]

http://www.hauraki.co.nz/video/gratuitous-suspension-testing

[Padmei]

http://www.hauraki.co.nz/video/gratuitous-suspension-testing

I'm speechless......

[NordieBoy]

http://www.hauraki.co.nz/video/gratuitous-suspension-testing

They were good...

[NordieBoy]

Trying some 740mm (cut down 780's) bars out.
The 680's were fine unless I had a death grip on the grip shifters and brakes when I was holding them in maybe 3cm from the ends...

Now my death grip will still be reasonably wide...

:scooter:

[NordieBoy]

Photographed the first 2 stages of the Mammoth Enduro today.
http://sports.nelson.geek.nz/cycling/20131124%20Mammoth/index.html

The Dog Trail is not a track I'd like to even walk down again...

Note to self: It's NEVER a good idea to go straight up a DH track instead of riding the longer, easier way...

The liaison to the stage 2 start included an 8.5km uphill grind...

There'll be some dehydrated, cramping bodies tonight :D

[NordieBoy]

Oh yeah, the wider bars were quite nice, except that now my freshly bled brakes are both so spongy it's not funny.

Spongy brakes are not your friend on DH tracks...

[clint640]

Spongy brakes are not your friend ...

Indeed. Lost just about all front brakes on the dirty ol Marin about 15km into the 35km Moerangi loop 2 weekends ago. With some frenetic pumping I could get a bit of stop but the bitchin long downhill section into the Whirinaki was a bit less elegant than usual :shit:

Given most other parts on that bike are well shagged too I'm thinking about upgrading. Trouble is I only use the geared bike every now & then, usual mount is the SS around the Redwoods, so it's hard to justify spending big $$$$. I see a Giant Talon 29er, my size, on TM locally for $900, Whaddaya reckon? Heading out to check out the new Timber Trail tracks through Pureora next weekend so I need to either buy some new brakes, or a new bike, this week.

Cheers
Clint

[CrazyFrog]

Indeed. Lost just about all front brakes on the dirty ol Marin about 15km into the 35km Moerangi loop 2 weekends ago. With some frenetic pumping I could get a bit of stop but the bitchin long downhill section into the Whirinaki was a bit less elegant than usual :shit:

Given most other parts on that bike are well shagged too I'm thinking about upgrading. Trouble is I only use the geared bike every now & then, usual mount is the SS around the Redwoods, so it's hard to justify spending big $$$$. I see a Giant Talon 29er, my size, on TM locally for $900, Whaddaya reckon? Heading out to check out the new Timber Trail tracks through Pureora next weekend so I need to either buy some new brakes, or a new bike, this week.

Cheers
Clint
The Giant Talon would prolly be a good buy so long as the PO has done basic servicing. There is a nice Large frame one in Taupo listed too. Hard tail too, lower maintenance = less suspension, pivots, techy stuff to replace.
You won't need fantastic brakes on the Timber Trail, it's a real easy gradient, and nothing too technical in there on the main trail to challenge yourself. Are you camping at PiroPiro or doing a 1 day mission? A little bird tells me it's ADV bike friendly too ;) not that I would know.

[clint640]

Yep, might go check it out. I need a geared hardtail so I can do the odd spot of touring.

Will be camping at Piropiro with a few friends. Me Mum is going to drop us off at the north end then meet us at the camp with the carload of camping gear & cold beers :sunny: Then pick us up out the other end the next day.

Cheers
Clint

[CrazyFrog]

Sweet, plenty of good logging roads to explore in there around the Piropiro camp area, and mtb trail is awesome. Good views and bridges.
I grew up on a farm there as a kid, and I still know several of the landowners there now. I've always thought about Piropiro as a good overnight adv bike camp if exploring all the gravel roads or a spot of trout fishing in the Ongarue Stream nearby.

A nice car drop off/pick up and cold beers will be a bonus when on the pushie!

[NordieBoy]

Cyclocross replacement...

Introducing:

Project Stumpy...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/03/4u3a3ahu.jpg
Large 2011 Stumpjumper Comp

Had to get it, the colors match my spare wheels and forks...

Teamed with Roval Control SL 26" tubeless wheels...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/03/edavupuj.jpg
1350g the pair

And Rockshox SID Race forks...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/03/y7u2yjaq.jpg


Only need a crankset and brakes to complete it really. All the other bits are in the Emporium.



On the FS bike, I've gone from 680mm bars with ergo grips, to 740mm with ESI foam grips and no hand tingling! The wider bars mean I'm not putting as much weight on the outside of my hands.

Vic borrowed the FS last night to take out to Rabbit Island with the Scouts (he's a leader) and managed to highside it showing off in front of them.

Got a good round of applause apparently :D

[Willdat?]

Pushed the GT200 home from the Honest Lawyer last night - from the bypass to the west side of the overbridge really is an adventure pushing a bike with clip ons...(equivalent of a freshly plowed field).

[clint640]

Pulled the trigger on that Giant. The guy was not kidding when he said 'like new condition'. I think I have probably put more k's on it in the last week than it had done in it's whole life previously.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/clhandcock/P1020808_zpsa5690211.jpg

I'm liking it a lot. I want to replace my singlespeed with a 29er now.

The Timber Trail at Pureora was a very cool 85km. Super cruisy, lots of sweet singletrack, the effort that has gone in to make it all an easy grade is amazing. No work for the bottom chainring all weekend :2thumbsup

Cheers
Clint

[NordieBoy]

Pushed the GT200 home from the Honest Lawyer last night - from the bypass to the west side of the overbridge really is an adventure pushing a bike with clip ons...(equivalent of a freshly plowed field).

I've done Gladstone Rd, from the other side of the 3Bros over bridge, to a petrol station in Richmond before.

Or walking home from Nelson to Hope because you were late to the car and mum left...

[Padmei]

I've done Gladstone Rd, from the other side of the 3Bros over bridge, to a petrol station in Richmond before.

Or walking home from Nelson to Hope because you were late to the car and mum left...

have you ever walked home from Tahuna with a bent front wheel from crashing into a car after riding along the outside line of traffic in a hurry to get to a Wheelers race one nite?

[NordieBoy]

have you ever walked home from Tahuna with a bent front wheel from crashing into a car after riding along the outside line of traffic in a hurry to get to a Wheelers race one nite?

No, but I came home from the gym in Richmond one night on the tri-bike and at about 45kph on the corner by the Black Cat, I hit the gravel that wasn't there on the way out...

Not a lot of control in those situations.

From the bike or the sphincter...

:shit:

[Willdat?]

How many of you chaps and chapettes are using Strava? Must say that I'm enjoying the challenge of trying to get a personal best every ride...

[NordieBoy]

How many of you chaps and chapettes are using Strava? Must say that I'm enjoying the challenge of trying to get a personal best every ride...

Yep.

Got some little test loops set up.

Took until last week on the MTB to beat my cyclocross best time for Botanics-Blue Gums.

[NordieBoy]

Looks promising...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/5uny5yve.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/ebyre6a4.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/pu4esema.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/ujygy4u2.jpg

2kg for frame/headset/seatpost.

Dunno why they keep calling it a "Stumpjumper" though.
Feels like it'd fold in half the first stump it tried to jump...

[NordieBoy]

It's got a really long head tube dammit.
My forks are 5mm short of a safe length.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/3anyze9e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/ty7egavy.jpg

[clint640]

It's got a really long head tube dammit.
My forks are 5mm short of a safe length.


Could you machine up a steerer tube extension? - shrink & pin it in?

Cheers
Clint

[NordieBoy]

I've just found that BBB do a wedged extension that should be sweet.
I want about 10mm to safely use a normal 40mm stack stem and the BBB comes with the ability to go to 80mm...

Ideally though, a small machined adapter would be more idealer.

The head tube is 180mm and the Blur one is 100mm.

Also after playing with a tape measure, it looks like an 80mm stem should be about right and the flat bars should be about the height of the risers on the Blur.

I'm feeling better about it being such a large frame...