tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63207671351617168672024-03-12T20:08:30.253-04:00MTBAndyMTB Andy includes product reviews, race info and other mountain bike and outdoor related articles.Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-70533432023953743092021-08-22T23:23:00.000-04:002021-08-22T23:23:20.501-04:00Contour+ Plus<br />
<ul style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 25px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Custom Wide-Angle Lens+ 6 Element Glass Lens, 170 FOV, F2.8HD Video+ 3 Resolutions and 2 frame rates</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Configurable White Balance; Removable Rechargeable Battery; GPS Enabled</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Bluetooth Enabled+ Use your iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, and iPod Touch (3rd and 4th Gen) as a viewfinder</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">5MP still photo mode Configurable+ Manually set white balance, exposure, and sharpness</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Android connectivity coming soon HDMI Output+ Stream video, audio, and view your videos Microphone Plug+ Connect an external microphone.</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Bluetooth Enabled+ Use your iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, and iPod Touch (3rd and 4th Gen) as a viewfinder+</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Configurable White Balance</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Custom Wide-Angle Lens+ 6 Element Glass Lens, 170 FOV, F2.8HD Video+</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">GPS Enabled</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Manually set white balance, exposure, and sharpness</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Removable Rechargeable Battery</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Stream video, audio, and view your videos Microphone Plug+ Connect an external microphone</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">Android connectivity coming soon HDMI Output+ Stream video, audio, and view your videos Microphone Plug+ Connect an external microphone</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em; margin-top: 0.5em;">3 Resolutions and 2 frame rates or 5MP still photo mode Configurable+ Manually set white balance, exposure, and sharpness</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><h4 style="color: #cc6600; font-size: 1em; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Video Formats</h4>
<table class="data" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-bottom: 1.25em; width: 75%px;"><tbody>
<tr><th style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f7f7f7; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;" width="105"><div align="center">
Video Format</div>
</th><th style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f7f7f7; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;" width="85"><div align="center">
Resolution</div>
</th><th style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f7f7f7; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;" width="85"><div align="center">
Frame Rate</div>
</th><th style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f7f7f7; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><br /></th></tr>
<tr><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
Full HD 1080p</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
1920 x 1080</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
30 fps</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">To capture those awesome moments in the highest resolution available.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
Tall HD 960p</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
1280 x 960</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
30 fps</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">For those sports like surfing that are better suited to a taller image.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
Action HD 720p</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
1280 x 720</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
60 fps</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">When frame rate is more important than resolution. The perfect setting to capture the fastest action. It reduces blur and rolling shutter effect.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
Contour 720p</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
1280 x 720</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
30 fps</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">When space on your card is at a premium and you need to record that last epic adventure.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
Still Photo</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
2592 x 1944</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><div align="center">
3, 5, 10, 30 or 60 sec</div>
</td><td style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">When you want to freeze frame the action, the photo mode is your perfect shot. You can pick from 5 rates to best capture that moment.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With a burly, water-resistant aluminum shell, the Contour+ is made to take a beating in extreme environments from raging storms to muddy tracks. For full submersion sports add the waterproof case to keep it dry up to 60 meters deep(available summer 2011).</span></div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-2388832409615644792021-08-22T23:17:00.001-04:002021-08-22T23:17:31.777-04:00Magellan2014<div>The Magellan Mio Cyclo 505 GPS unit is a large touch screen, full color bike computer complete with heart rate sensor, cadence and wheel sensor accessories. The 505 included two mounting methods for bicycle stems or handlebars. The goal to make a sophisticated cycling computer that is user-friendly was accomplished.<br />
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As with other GPS units, the 505 is compatible with ANT, Bluetooth, WiFi, most phones… You can use your existing accessories %%%%%%%<br />
<br />
Scrolling through the different screens on the 505 was all that was needed to learn to use the computer, and set-up was just as easy. There is one button, the power button, which pulls double-duty as a "go back" button in all screens. Otherwise you use the touch screen to navigate through the options you want to view or use.<br />
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Upon power up the 505 finds the satellites quickly, and is ready to go as soon as you are. It actually starts recording as soon as you move, and even ask you if you want to "start" the ride. No longer will you be hours into a ride and realize you forgot to start the timer, because it has been secretly recording all the time. This is a cool feature, but on the annoying side, maybe you don't want to start the ride timer until you are actually starting your ride or workout. You might realize all that walking around and slow riding before you actually started the ride is going to bring down your average speed and falsely increase your ride time. However, the fix is to start a new file and deal with the previous file later.<br />
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The 505 comes with road maps installed, so you never get lost. You can zoom in/out on the screen and move the map around with just a fingertip to see where you are.<br />
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The compass option puts a giant arrow that points north, but takes up 1/4 of the screen. The compass is nice, but not worth the loss of so much of the map; it can be disabled. Overall the screen is brilliant and easily seen. It lights up a little every time you touch the screen. The downside is power consumption, while other brands use a simple black on gray (blank) background scheme to display the numbers, Magellan adds a white background. Battery life never got close to the claimed runtime, and constant fiddling with the screen could be the cause.<br />
<br />
When using the touch screen an audible beep can easily be heard, however, the screen will make the same chirping sound for a mis-placed touch as well as a correct touch. Operation of the screen has to be slow and deliberate. Gloved fingers worked quite well with the screen. Interestingly, a finger dab on the tongue as if turning pages of a book seemed to help make gloved contact with the pages of the 505 easier.<br />
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Some fun features on the 505 include the "Surprise Me" option which will plan a route based on your time or your milage goal. You can have it plan a loop or take you to a destination. Settings for bicycle or for car affect the route it choses. The 505 is quite accurate knowing your location, but the real-time bread crumb trail on the map makes tracing your steps (or the steps of a route you are following) very difficult. Your route traveled is displayed as red dots approximately 40-60 feet apart. This makes navigating a tight-packed urban mountain bike trail difficult.<br />
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Connecting this to the internet is why you bought it to begin with, and Magellan has made it easy. The users favorite way to upload the files is directly from the 505 to a WiFi hotspot. After you have registered the unit, it is just a few button clicks from uploading your selected files. This eliminates needing a computer to mediate between the GPS unit and the website. Yes, of course, you can still access files the old fashioned way too - via usb cable.<br />
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While the Magellan units are made for PC software, with a Mac you can still access the GPS unit as an external drive and access your ride files. Hint: view your files by type and not by date so you can extract the .gpx files more easily.<br />
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weight<br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Edge 1000: 115g</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Edge 810: 97g</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Edge 510: 82g</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Edge 500: 57g</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Mio Cyclo 505: 130g</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif" style="background-color: #ebebeb; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">Polar V650: 120g</span><br />
crumb trail<br />
lap<br />
dim<br />
numbers could be bigger inside their respective box<br />
secure mount<br />
easy to use<br />
the back to start requires ending current ride<br />
grade takes too long to adjust<br />
no way to adj the tilt<br />
temp in C<br />
does connect to Mac (as drive only)<br />
very fickle with usb cable, wiggle and it disconnects.<br />
sunset 245am<br />
can't connect to wi fi<br />
beep sound is same for wrong touch and right touch. seems like I have to touch twice each time.<br />
screen lights up with each touch.<br />
batt does not go 12 hrs, maybe 9 - probably bc of the light<br />
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<br /></div>Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-24457976278124149822015-02-26T16:33:00.002-05:002015-02-26T16:33:25.709-05:00Homemade Helmet CoverHelmet Cover<br />
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I have been saving this plastic for a while now. I am doing a gravel grinder this weekend: www.chainbusterracing.com <br />
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This will be a very cold race. High speeds and freezing temps are expected. I usually have an interior layer of insulation in my helmet, but this plastic will give me some aerodynamics.<br />
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Like a TT helmet with no forward vents, this plastic will smooth out the windward profile.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtuFKswbtvxigCr8wxY8yRolV-JdCZu4aBfWzprCaCON4b35fkNGqj5Y5ahfmekt4fa8X55gZtFV0ItXM1NmeAfkSPY4K_IDwgHUhOmIJMh2txd4UAz3Dyx2PQv3r_53chzOh2m3YY20/s1600/IMGP9181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtuFKswbtvxigCr8wxY8yRolV-JdCZu4aBfWzprCaCON4b35fkNGqj5Y5ahfmekt4fa8X55gZtFV0ItXM1NmeAfkSPY4K_IDwgHUhOmIJMh2txd4UAz3Dyx2PQv3r_53chzOh2m3YY20/s1600/IMGP9181.JPG" height="251" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is heat moldable plastic that came off my spinach container.<br />
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I cut the container lid before taking the photos, so this is all that remained.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiFYKN-LEZeFoPRaQ3qMJITiK8Us-Uagm-tfGdZs_tdnBmJfe5a6PEqMCebU2tbeFTwqHLzPxCleCC9MhfmzgwQG7WHsL5eAzC2kLY7am-Vdqb1ttCh8d8NuY_UlDMQVKiA6ursyqApw/s1600/IMGP9180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiFYKN-LEZeFoPRaQ3qMJITiK8Us-Uagm-tfGdZs_tdnBmJfe5a6PEqMCebU2tbeFTwqHLzPxCleCC9MhfmzgwQG7WHsL5eAzC2kLY7am-Vdqb1ttCh8d8NuY_UlDMQVKiA6ursyqApw/s1600/IMGP9180.JPG" height="234" width="320" /></a></div>
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Take an ordinary helmet<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmCIhctaI1UDQjQU4rIS3vNve_Du5lPPcCJQWdkiGEh5-HXGYfFIx6RUbF66fQfRY1JjgVbaLL8AXwF1N0o7ywLNIxQ9CWx58M5gDDRhXQXPeTZivFLrTJYlW5e0tZ2I9ynQyrf7Mb9s/s1600/IMGP9183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmCIhctaI1UDQjQU4rIS3vNve_Du5lPPcCJQWdkiGEh5-HXGYfFIx6RUbF66fQfRY1JjgVbaLL8AXwF1N0o7ywLNIxQ9CWx58M5gDDRhXQXPeTZivFLrTJYlW5e0tZ2I9ynQyrf7Mb9s/s1600/IMGP9183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmCIhctaI1UDQjQU4rIS3vNve_Du5lPPcCJQWdkiGEh5-HXGYfFIx6RUbF66fQfRY1JjgVbaLL8AXwF1N0o7ywLNIxQ9CWx58M5gDDRhXQXPeTZivFLrTJYlW5e0tZ2I9ynQyrf7Mb9s/s1600/IMGP9183.JPG" height="254" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLHWP9aGDnAfpfu1gYQ6-0Vcq0KigdDhubEarX67OTG2trJvaE8TU-zyePM5Yw5zr2ah2XgXmEZKQRhA7aPMgAqVAT0FtM0hBDJCXJR8L5nO-MNNJOXys3O91bj7pL4TKjhyyTpCbhGE/s1600/IMGP9182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLHWP9aGDnAfpfu1gYQ6-0Vcq0KigdDhubEarX67OTG2trJvaE8TU-zyePM5Yw5zr2ah2XgXmEZKQRhA7aPMgAqVAT0FtM0hBDJCXJR8L5nO-MNNJOXys3O91bj7pL4TKjhyyTpCbhGE/s1600/IMGP9182.JPG" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
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And with a heat gun mold the plastic to the shape of the helmet. I used the heat, then my sleeve to press the hot plastic into the helmet.</div>
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You end up with this, a clear plastic form of the helmet. Next step for me is to clean the sticker residue.</div>
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The final step is to secure it to the helmet. I used electrical tape which is able to stretch to the contours of the helmet.</div>
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With it clean an optional step is to paint the underside. It will appear shiny from the outside.</div>
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Now I have a more aero helmet that will also keep freezing air from flowing through the hemet.</div>
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Lightweight tubeless valve stems. 3.8 grams!</h2>
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Upgrade your bike to Speed Evolution's alloy presto valve stems. Reducing the rotational weight and improving the ability to inflate and seal your tire. Truckerco.com<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwnnM7hMnVhkPqq1V3ocDl3DZnSuBAYX6T1h1rF0sJfYX-29mS17gjOOtQ33O3QgXQJJJ4rAwp2rv4_Xdvs1V5gkoBvL1FojNO5egJXm6SyUjjB7uip95MOHFtOXfjBx11dqEs6iKKSs/s1600/IMGP9172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwnnM7hMnVhkPqq1V3ocDl3DZnSuBAYX6T1h1rF0sJfYX-29mS17gjOOtQ33O3QgXQJJJ4rAwp2rv4_Xdvs1V5gkoBvL1FojNO5egJXm6SyUjjB7uip95MOHFtOXfjBx11dqEs6iKKSs/s1600/IMGP9172.JPG" height="320" width="311" /></a><br />
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They feature many colors and have a removable valve core. The rubber end seals against any rim easily, and the raised portion helps keep sealant out of the valve.</div>
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Pictured here with the other leading brand which is brass. The weight difference is tremendous even for such a small item.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcMVAm91qVB3GUgbK556awH3rWsLrCObqqwY0y89AUyf0OUuQQXajNnxFo41SwwZHkj4NmldXbyMZAgToBVSmp7Pyh-6qlXMcl0WEpsV-wMrO6AQEn02yeC8QWsL5vBv-I0MWsVMmV0U/s1600/IMGP9173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcMVAm91qVB3GUgbK556awH3rWsLrCObqqwY0y89AUyf0OUuQQXajNnxFo41SwwZHkj4NmldXbyMZAgToBVSmp7Pyh-6qlXMcl0WEpsV-wMrO6AQEn02yeC8QWsL5vBv-I0MWsVMmV0U/s1600/IMGP9173.JPG" height="182" width="320" /></a><br />
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To the right you can see how much more volume there is inside the valve stem. Being able to move air fast when attempting to mount and seal a tire is critical.</div>
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Mounted with the Truckerco Blue rim tape.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgp1p6maAnA2n3FzeSngUBCBQrSmW3soENYJPc-PdUH3xO_dpcbe9dHkYD6RsU8eKIaipRgqOXqPTLILOW-A4H8pTKDhApW-_gWCveoczz-rflGvNEulDcAEWXREPamPnFVVQfOJO9eM/s1600/IMGP9175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgp1p6maAnA2n3FzeSngUBCBQrSmW3soENYJPc-PdUH3xO_dpcbe9dHkYD6RsU8eKIaipRgqOXqPTLILOW-A4H8pTKDhApW-_gWCveoczz-rflGvNEulDcAEWXREPamPnFVVQfOJO9eM/s1600/IMGP9175.JPG" height="293" width="320" /></a></div>
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I ran my valve nut upside down without the O-ring. This way the cone shape of the nut centers into the rim hole and helps make the valve more stable. Valve wobble can be a source of air leaks, and with my double-walled rim there is no need to seal the rim on this end.</div>
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I have been very happy with my new valve stems.</div>
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Lighter, with more air flow and they do not need much force to make the seal, so changing a flat (removing the stem) in the woods on a 15 degree day was easy this time.</div>
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With a true tubeless rim you can use the nut and supplied O-ring to seal the rim airtight from the outside This is pretty standard operating procedure, so no news there.</div>
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Colors include:<br />
Black, <span style="color: purple;">Purple</span>, <span style="color: #444444;">Gun Metal Gray</span>, <span style="color: red;">Red</span>, <span style="color: blue;">Blue</span>, <span style="color: #bf9000;">Gold</span>, <span style="color: lime;">Green</span>, <span style="color: orange;">Orange</span> and <span style="color: #ea9999;">Pink</span>.<br />
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Stem Lengths: 38mm and 48mm in all colors<br />
and 60mm in Gun Metal Gray.<br />
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Get yours for $23.99 at <a href="http://truckerco.com/">Truckerco.com</a><br />
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From the website:<br />
<span style="background-color: #b9b8b8; color: #333333; font-family: 'Roboto Slab', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;">Speed Evolution’s tubeless aluminum presta valve features a patent pending larger recessed locking O-ring, a larger internal diameter to provide for more airflow and a less plugging caused by tubeless sealant. The vulcanized base includes a raised center so that the sealant does not seep inside and a vulcanized base that is big enough so seal a Shraeder valve and fits almost all rims perfectly. The valve core is removable to easily inflate and add sealant. Speed evolution valves are made from aluminum, about half the weight of brass, and come in cool anodized colors: gold, green, red and pink. They’re perfect accent to a customized bike.</span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS0jasPiJ0t0tgLA6igrI4pa77QsrsWLZpkF493ZSrSrir1r66cye2HGHnKLocNwG_jbI-WJvZkcY79-2n6CjWCLi6UdhiOlFYPhdVeMrecCLIM2x2EQ5pFE0QhbVwGheMC63wYtlrm8/s1600/IMGP9168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS0jasPiJ0t0tgLA6igrI4pa77QsrsWLZpkF493ZSrSrir1r66cye2HGHnKLocNwG_jbI-WJvZkcY79-2n6CjWCLi6UdhiOlFYPhdVeMrecCLIM2x2EQ5pFE0QhbVwGheMC63wYtlrm8/s1600/IMGP9168.JPG" height="257" width="320" /></a></div>
These old bottom brackets were not meant to be rebuilt. They last long enough that buying a new one every year or two is not that big of a budget crisis. As this is old technology, and on my beater bike, I decided to revive the bb instead of replacing it. This particular one has a titanium spindle, so would have been a pricey replacement.<br />
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Here is my trick:<br />
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Using 80 Weight Gear Oil. Add oil to a baggie and let sit for an extended period of time. Spin the bearings to help assist the oil penetration by moving the spindle inside the shell often.<br />
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This is not as good as axle grease, but you would never get grease inside the bearings using this method.</div>
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I also use a similar method to oil those suspension bearings that have the metal dust covers.</div>
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Make sure all the dirt is cleaned off before oiling your bearings to reduce the chance of contamination.Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-13605109012809730602015-01-15T13:01:00.000-05:002015-01-19T16:17:08.640-05:00Products on deck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Truckerco.com products<br />
Brake pads<br />
aluminum wheel valves (in colors)<br />
tire sealant<br />
ESI Grips<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigEw0onOZIAxAHBDtpQWcr5CThhITXd_btLValCPYx3v26nbczkSCPLBPHZhPODEQrK7ukkI8w5piDmpHIWyw3_LHmcfE2merwYGFHttXFKp6KNW0ETOSkenegfgL7yxwcawvk9GWJM50/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigEw0onOZIAxAHBDtpQWcr5CThhITXd_btLValCPYx3v26nbczkSCPLBPHZhPODEQrK7ukkI8w5piDmpHIWyw3_LHmcfE2merwYGFHttXFKp6KNW0ETOSkenegfgL7yxwcawvk9GWJM50/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" height="218" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigEw0onOZIAxAHBDtpQWcr5CThhITXd_btLValCPYx3v26nbczkSCPLBPHZhPODEQrK7ukkI8w5piDmpHIWyw3_LHmcfE2merwYGFHttXFKp6KNW0ETOSkenegfgL7yxwcawvk9GWJM50/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigEw0onOZIAxAHBDtpQWcr5CThhITXd_btLValCPYx3v26nbczkSCPLBPHZhPODEQrK7ukkI8w5piDmpHIWyw3_LHmcfE2merwYGFHttXFKp6KNW0ETOSkenegfgL7yxwcawvk9GWJM50/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Bar Mitts Road bike winter covers<br />
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<i>Magellan Cyclo 505 Bike Computer</i><br />
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IBEX<br />
Coppi Merino Cycling Cap<br />
Wool cap<br />
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<i>Cool little hat with a brim to be worn under the helmet, or alone in any outdoor activity.</i><br />
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Volagi Liscio<br />
Disc Brake Equip Road Bike<br />
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Other long-range products:</div>
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Truckerco brake pads<br />
Truckerco tire sealant</div>
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The STICK<br />
Electric scooter<br />
Fuji cross bike<br />
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Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-61008803578910748872015-01-04T20:41:00.002-05:002015-01-07T19:57:33.894-05:00Speed Banana 4-Hour Epic Saga<div align="center">
<span class="size14 Arial14" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; min-height: 21px;"><b>Speed Banana Epic Sage 4-Hour XC</b></span></div>
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<span class="size14 Arial14" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; min-height: 21px;"><b>formerly Winter Thaw</b></span></div>
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<span class="size12 Arial12" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; min-height: 18px;"><b style="line-height: 19px; min-height: 19px;">Yellow River</b></span></div>
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<span class="size12 Arial12" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; min-height: 18px;"><b style="line-height: 19px; min-height: 19px;">Stone Mtn, GA</b></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><b>Sunday April 19, 2015</b></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><b>One Day Only</b></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><b></b><br /></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">CycleYouth is hosting Speed Banana's Epic Saga, a 4-hour multi-lap timed race. This is shorter than a 6-hour race, but longer than a regular XC event and will provide a full filled day of riding on great trails.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sJCD7WSvqH1RkZWeXCG1PpqNLlLAHi6Gpum3tpBDZBpXCPEGPjiSbsLzO4Z83BVsA6Fnxe6XvZnoNIQahnDj223Qv7kNKA7fpWAQ37_QVf1u9eqfrzelv0vI0RGtg1onU0r7ktpctVk/s1600/speed+bananas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sJCD7WSvqH1RkZWeXCG1PpqNLlLAHi6Gpum3tpBDZBpXCPEGPjiSbsLzO4Z83BVsA6Fnxe6XvZnoNIQahnDj223Qv7kNKA7fpWAQ37_QVf1u9eqfrzelv0vI0RGtg1onU0r7ktpctVk/s1600/speed+bananas.png" height="230" width="320" /></a><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">The trail system uses all the best single track at the park to offer a fun and rewarding loop for all. Old-timers will remember some of the original trails that are back in use. The loop has been created to maximize singletrack, and offer a true mountain bike experience. The course has been modified from last year's XC version slightly to make multiple laps just a little easier, but all the challenge is still there. </span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">The </span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/652622491" target="_self">loop</a></span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"> is approx 6.8 miles in length and about 90% single track. Parking and start/finish are at the Horse Parking area.</span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">For other park users including HORSES and HIKERS the River Side trails will remain open, although the Horse parking lot will be in use by the race.</span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">We will run races in heats for 8-11 Kids, Beginner, Sport and Expert (Cat III, II and I), as well as First Timers. First Timer class is just that; first time racing.</span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">Kids 8-11 1.6 mile loop </span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">using portions of adult loop. Kids 8-11 will start at 8:40AM so racing parents can be there.</span><br />
<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></span>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: large; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">See <a href="http://www.speedbanana.com/">www.speedbanana.com</a> for the official race website</span></div>
<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;"><b>Sponsors</b></span></div>
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<span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px;">A big thank you to our series sponsors, for whom we would not be able to bring these events to you.</span></div>
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<li class="size10 Arial10" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-top: 2px;"><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"><b><a href="http://www.progoldmfr.com/" target="_self">Pro Gold</a></b></span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"> for a fine selection of chain and cleaning products.</span></li>
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<li class="size10 Arial10" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-top: 2px;"><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"><b><a href="http://www.ctownbikes.com/" target="_self">C Town Bikes</a></b></span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"> for prizes and race support.</span></li>
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<li class="size10 Arial10" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; min-height: 16px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-top: 2px;"><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"><b><a href="http://www/.truckerco.com" target="_self">TruckerCo.com</a></b></span><span class="size10 Arial10" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, adobe-helvetica, 'Arial Narrow'; min-height: 16px;"> for prizes</span></li>
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The course starts in the horse parking area and makes a counter clockwise loop. This map shows all the trails. The heavy lines are the course and the thin lines the unused trails.<br />
You will not be able to follow the map unless you are very familiar with the trails.<br />
This <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/652622491">gps file</a> is accurate, and starts next to the horse parking kiosk. If you have a mapping function on your gps unit then you should be able to follow the race course. At each intersection check the map to see where the trail leads. Sometimes the trail the course uses is not the obvious route of travel.<br />
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Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-13023207309632598282014-11-19T18:13:00.000-05:002015-02-20T15:28:00.915-05:00Bar Mitts keep you riding all winter<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ride All Winter With Bar Mitts</span></div>
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www.barmitts.com<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGUJlU8saM0MdcCfgiu7mml76QX_5QpRzI8g_qREUBX-feokuac6RjelXwV1205mNHr8Ayj_IGA5IdcvF9WnXxPj-epWOZKQFQuClzBWh4ow8MFuhqDuuvMYs2rlOP_KbLjTcBBMfOsc/s1600/barmitt2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGUJlU8saM0MdcCfgiu7mml76QX_5QpRzI8g_qREUBX-feokuac6RjelXwV1205mNHr8Ayj_IGA5IdcvF9WnXxPj-epWOZKQFQuClzBWh4ow8MFuhqDuuvMYs2rlOP_KbLjTcBBMfOsc/s1600/barmitt2.JPG" height="237" width="400" /></a></div>
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I received these last March, so only had a very few cold days to test them out, but in November cold days came early and sub-freezing temps could not keep me from riding thanks to Bar Mitts. <i>update: yes it got cold</i></div>
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Bar Mitts are a neoprene handle bar cover fitted specifically to your road bike, mtb, or even other sports uses. I have the mtb pair. The idea is to keep all the wind from sucking heat out of your glove, and also insulate your hands in a warm cocoon that allows you to easily operate your controls. Keeping your hands warm on a cold ride makes a huge difference for your over-all comfort.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-u3nQrIg4Qyo2peqt4QZrZKE04EU5PxCmbnWw0IvzKICSC6FgCUDqLmd1wEslsPCde4nvbc3ECN9WNR7JyLiefycMsiR9X30-6xczOvRScobJ7-QN3GPR35JNB6E6S5CT-nXgEIzRKI/s1600/barmitt5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-u3nQrIg4Qyo2peqt4QZrZKE04EU5PxCmbnWw0IvzKICSC6FgCUDqLmd1wEslsPCde4nvbc3ECN9WNR7JyLiefycMsiR9X30-6xczOvRScobJ7-QN3GPR35JNB6E6S5CT-nXgEIzRKI/s1600/barmitt5.JPG" height="246" width="320" /></a><br />
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Entry and exit is very easy. My method of entering is to make a pointy-hand by folding my thumb and fingers together. Concerns of missing the hole fold when you realize the Bar Mitts are playable enough to grab on the outside.</div>
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The Bar Mitts come with an internal hook & loop strap to attach the end to the grip securing the Mitt from moving around (you can see a red flap inside - see below why it is not attached).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLFtV-9ha7bhV2a7hXTEvoBxXoOwTpV-KZu4BdpQV1Bol1qQGEeurrb9v9wF4Xez-1qlkbo_ohNG8QpmBLeKt41ffEm091GJv5kzyaj6L-Jz8nRqUNvwa7INyY8vhoxhqGKeRGI34Ndc/s1600/barmitt6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLFtV-9ha7bhV2a7hXTEvoBxXoOwTpV-KZu4BdpQV1Bol1qQGEeurrb9v9wF4Xez-1qlkbo_ohNG8QpmBLeKt41ffEm091GJv5kzyaj6L-Jz8nRqUNvwa7INyY8vhoxhqGKeRGI34Ndc/s1600/barmitt6.JPG" height="197" width="320" /></a></div>
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To attach the Bar Mitt simply unzip the lower cable opening, slide on, and zip up. Two external straps close the opening to reduce air flow.</div>
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Note that some air flow is necessary to prevent your hands from sweating. The small gaps at the cable provide this.</div>
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On a sub-20 degree day you can wear 50 degree gloves when using the Bar Mitts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFsVYopysjLXy3akHVpOGT0Cckpnlro2Ea_1U7gaw4syHbd6h1ZXScQl240b9Bivh-k2oE9qlupQUiiNZTkPAS8V91gxSJv6GrcshxJ9ikvM-B8_-Q6S-C3fOzV9fR-N3Ua85aKmaqWo/s1600/barmitt3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFsVYopysjLXy3akHVpOGT0Cckpnlro2Ea_1U7gaw4syHbd6h1ZXScQl240b9Bivh-k2oE9qlupQUiiNZTkPAS8V91gxSJv6GrcshxJ9ikvM-B8_-Q6S-C3fOzV9fR-N3Ua85aKmaqWo/s1600/barmitt3.JPG" height="229" width="320" /></a><br />
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Users report loving using regular gloves as the bulk of winter gloves just does not feel right and isolate the rider from the terrain.</div>
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I have modified the grip strap by attaching a screw and washer through the Mitt and into the bar plug. It has the same effect, but eliminates the inner strap which can either come off, or in my case, just bug me.</div>
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<i>Bar Mitts now come with an expandable bar plug to do the same thing, and requires no tools.</i></div>
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My only complaint is cold knuckles when wearing thin gloves. My top knuckles can press against the fabric and get a chill. The insulation comes from the warm air pocket inside the Mitt, and with my knuckle pressed against the fabric this decreases in that particular spot. Likely a one size larger Bar Mitt would solve this, but I have to tinker…</div>
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Where I had screwed the Mitt to the bar plug is the solution. I simply moved the screw hole back 1/2 inch to make more room in front of my hands, and this solved my issue.</div>
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Bar Mitts also has one called the Extreme. Founder and creator, Ward reports:</div>
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The larger sizes have a gusset in between the two halves giving them more body/hand room. …I made an Extreme version, its fleece lined, has a removable cuff, a large ventilation zipper and comes with the expandable bar end attachment plug. </div>
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Pros: Everything. This is a product that has almost all positives:</div>
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Warm hands, does not interfere with riding, easy to use, can be left on if temps rise., no more bulky ski gloves.</div>
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Cons: Cold knuckles.</div>
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www.barmitts.com</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i>UPDATE December 8, 2014.</i></span></div>
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Two new innovations since the initial review are entry slits and a bar plug mounting option.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1j07yThgz4MV7peh2kFy2OuDjxctrKEZJEE-carBiOciJmWGIlEetpUgUyMfS9rjHO25TJ6Jf_b48RFtjRBEX78fS9o0KBmxr62IFIesYS8zIHmciQiz03o5UjkGrO9NF9anih4Bty8/s1600/DSCF0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1j07yThgz4MV7peh2kFy2OuDjxctrKEZJEE-carBiOciJmWGIlEetpUgUyMfS9rjHO25TJ6Jf_b48RFtjRBEX78fS9o0KBmxr62IFIesYS8zIHmciQiz03o5UjkGrO9NF9anih4Bty8/s1600/DSCF0269.JPG" height="195" width="320" /> </a></div>
First, is the addition of the slit-entry to the previously tested Bar Mitt. Seen here mounted inside out for visual clarity.<br />
The red is the same neoprene fabric as the Bar Mitt, and it is held on with velcro. The purpose is to make a more air tight seal around the wrist to prevent heat loss.<br />
The neoprene is just stiff enough to keep the Mitt in a nice oval shape.<br />
Entry and exit are quick.<br />
Mount this black side out so the velcro does not show, and so it will shed snow or rain better.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSrpDB8dq4F2nrDMjb1es0hZuGaqzOIA8-u3Ln0leChnBidB6dyzBN_MpSijrnRyvLE3HkwMA_TOUTh5LTUetkbbGNNyApgI1udIWtD21jbsZveFQDYfXqTT-Jkz8i9AAFLEOgNlzh-c/s1600/DSCF0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSrpDB8dq4F2nrDMjb1es0hZuGaqzOIA8-u3Ln0leChnBidB6dyzBN_MpSijrnRyvLE3HkwMA_TOUTh5LTUetkbbGNNyApgI1udIWtD21jbsZveFQDYfXqTT-Jkz8i9AAFLEOgNlzh-c/s1600/DSCF0268.JPG" height="196" width="320" /></a></div>
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The new Bar Mitts come stock with the slit-entry. To the right is the Extreme Bar Mitt. The only size is XL. The 5.5 mil neoprene is thicker and lined with a fleece interior for extra warmth.<br />
Viewing inside out here shows the bar plug mounted into the red fabric, which is sewn to the inside, so the bar plug remains fully inside the Mitt.<br />
To mount the plug a small hole allows a 4mm allen wrench to tighten the expanding plug. It is securely attached when mounted, so removal on the trail will require that 4mm wrench again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw93xYeyzuEewMdDh7_8Kyo8bpRR05xzSFWE-Hl0mu0IYwq6JTJey4HuWCP6w3UcYgnUeHyoQLZ0BvVw7MAiBGUu0_V-0XrYgrcC6UFm-2Rq8TCenCjTiGoZyZV5ZeOooMiq0V8lLoX4/s1600/DSCF0259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw93xYeyzuEewMdDh7_8Kyo8bpRR05xzSFWE-Hl0mu0IYwq6JTJey4HuWCP6w3UcYgnUeHyoQLZ0BvVw7MAiBGUu0_V-0XrYgrcC6UFm-2Rq8TCenCjTiGoZyZV5ZeOooMiq0V8lLoX4/s1600/DSCF0259.JPG" height="274" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is the bar plug shipped as an upgrade for older versions of Bar Mitts.<br />
The red tab seen above on the Bar Mitts has a hole just big enough for the allen bolt to slide through and is held secure between the rubber thingie and the purple cap.<br />
The washer is actually the nut which the bolt threads into.<br />
The red tab is big enough to allow the user to reposition the bar plug so as to fine tune position of the Bar Mitts on the bar/brake lever assembly.<br />
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Not pictured here, but a small detail on new Mitts, is that the zipper unzips from the edge. The significance is that the zipper does not detach at the end when open anymore. Mitts no longer require getting the zipper started as on a jacket, but rather a quick zip like on a jersey.<br />
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Bar Mitts is a small company with innovation always on their mind.<br />
5 Stars!<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Update February, 2015:</span><br />
It finally got cold. With highs barely getting above 20 I finally got to test these further. The bigger size of XL made it possible to wear ski gloves, which is nice to wear at these temps. In my size Large the space is just too tight for bulky gloves to fit neatly. I was glad to have the bigger size on cold days. With temps in the high teens my hands were sweating a little. The trick is to open the velcro closure a little to allow some airflow.</div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-32118002277246805022014-10-28T21:01:00.000-04:002014-10-28T21:01:05.273-04:00Roundtail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tortola Roundtail</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGQPKBdnSXCaPpyd2DC8rxyzcpduu9gApz3NB0rJajbPjC9MFQjYEkU6UxA0b3ADoB9G849bu0QtdHHND-K4KTa4QWOvFsnvVAE1dvF542j_q__AwGiVehJFiw8WvfKOjycjiyNghsDo/s1600/roundtail_bike-lou_tortola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGQPKBdnSXCaPpyd2DC8rxyzcpduu9gApz3NB0rJajbPjC9MFQjYEkU6UxA0b3ADoB9G849bu0QtdHHND-K4KTa4QWOvFsnvVAE1dvF542j_q__AwGiVehJFiw8WvfKOjycjiyNghsDo/s1600/roundtail_bike-lou_tortola.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsvUpe5hl0U94Rapfk6yPJKFFXp9CGQB0Ivj1YH-ABtQjeSsHCgqeOjMxbaRg57aBm3tU4KGsMWpQQmGxIUGmaaPwilXbanPtHyD04POqVPSWPufcuurR923cKe7GDDMFUViKwiCJnpM/s1600/0227121411-00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsvUpe5hl0U94Rapfk6yPJKFFXp9CGQB0Ivj1YH-ABtQjeSsHCgqeOjMxbaRg57aBm3tU4KGsMWpQQmGxIUGmaaPwilXbanPtHyD04POqVPSWPufcuurR923cKe7GDDMFUViKwiCJnpM/s400/0227121411-00.jpg" height="392" width="400" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_2123754602"></span><span id="goog_2123754603"></span><br />
A crazy looking bike, but with purpose. It is fun that the frame circle almost matches the wheels, but there is more to it than ascetics. The giant circle is essentially a leaf spring. <br />
The initial reaction to riding it is that no noticeable difference in ride quality is felt. The real benefit is on longer rides when the micro-shock from tiny bumps in the road would normally start to agitate the rider. After about 2-3 hours in the saddle the rider will start to appreciate the comfort of the Roundtail. After the initial ride the effects are noticeable even at the start of a ride.<br />
It does have a small suspension effect. The rider notices bumps that are usually uncomfortable are now much smoother. Test riders noted that they were looking <b>for</b> instead of avoiding bumps just to feel the action of the frame.<br />
The frame is designe on CAD where finite element analysis can be studied. The frame not only smooths out the bumps, but dampens the high frequency vibrations, the ones that can feel like holding a power sander. Durability of the frame is improved since strain is transferred around the circle and not on any one specific point as a triangle would have. <br />
Frame testing beats it up with 100,000 cycles, and the Roundtail surpasses a traditional frame.<br />
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I got the chance to ride this bike for a few days. I had mixed feelings about it. While it does ride very nicely, there are those shortcomings that I cannot do without personally. The biggie is that the 2nd bottle cage mount on the would-be seat tube is missing, leaving only one mount, thus one bottle. The next, and much lesser, is that there is extra material in making the rear round, so there is a weight trade off for your comfort ride. This really is not a problem for the intended end user who does not intend to enter competitive racing.<br />
I like the frame and the ride quality, but coming from a mountain bike background I feel that smoothing out road bumps pales in comparison to what happens off road.<br />
A much better application of this technology would be in a hard-tail mountain bike frame where there is a greater need for smoothing out the bumps. <br />
It's not for me. I need two bottles on my road rides, and am not willing to give that up for creature comforts, but if you are looking for a cool frame that rides excellent, the Roundtail might be for you.Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-87901140238183942452013-12-12T17:27:00.001-05:002013-12-12T17:27:41.695-05:00Boreas Bolinas Day Pack<br />
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BOREAS</div>
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Bolinas Pack<br />
http://boreasgear.com/products/bolinas/<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJdyAXPuTfC7AhejBIHmuW-azMuutw3iIWX811-LsrKzvCBLzjcQogC6zI5DVb6QgTig1Bz79IZ2gRlB_M4OtzErNLNjNyjVzID3BcIJkjpfenQkv2XGTjvhn-yWJl3XpUmk77VfOdqc/s1600/Bolinas-Front-RedTaupeGrey-348x540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJdyAXPuTfC7AhejBIHmuW-azMuutw3iIWX811-LsrKzvCBLzjcQogC6zI5DVb6QgTig1Bz79IZ2gRlB_M4OtzErNLNjNyjVzID3BcIJkjpfenQkv2XGTjvhn-yWJl3XpUmk77VfOdqc/s320/Bolinas-Front-RedTaupeGrey-348x540.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
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Boreas Bolinas pack, 30L</div>
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This 30 liter pack touts its versatility that it is a bike pack that can convert to a long-haul day pack. The goal of this pack is pure function. Where other pack offer big padded shoulder and hip straps, the Boreas crew knows this can be over-kill. The secret is in the suspension system.<br />
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<i></i><i>30 Liters of storage, water resistant, expansion segments, 3 external zipper pockets, hydration bladder compatible, daisy loops tucked into access pockets, and most important the trampoline suspension system that adjust to fit the contours of your back for hiking or cycling.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgquqcjnawqNy86PsfvYkf1uzFo4oppH4WEKYCafBaRI9oBXuk_8UbSOXmDeVB17LO1Sz9G_8a7ZNH23ZTtDDSeRWcRSr6Ae4jTnIH3PKVWS4-Fr9zyMcUv7K25jnVB1lABOyP67JjP5o/s1600/IMGP8656wireframe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgquqcjnawqNy86PsfvYkf1uzFo4oppH4WEKYCafBaRI9oBXuk_8UbSOXmDeVB17LO1Sz9G_8a7ZNH23ZTtDDSeRWcRSr6Ae4jTnIH3PKVWS4-Fr9zyMcUv7K25jnVB1lABOyP67JjP5o/s320/IMGP8656wireframe.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The key to the packs versatile function is the internal wire frame that also serves as a spring. The ends are aluminum for light weight, wile the center is spring steel.<br />
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By tightening the tension straps you can have the pack flat on your back for hiking, or more rounded for cycling. Finely tuning the curve ensures a perfect fit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOxj88eIObNhVibe3MkJteYjyPs8otyE2YneYSykurzpZCkTLoIl4vu0lvdhwUOoq4rvXOQCPL_pALPhyphenhyphenhOUlN0Kn7OadvBTzUZR_Q2_j9FO-7ekDI1nJh5z38WoIVM5dDYRGP6eW-dk/s1600/IMGP8654bagback.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOxj88eIObNhVibe3MkJteYjyPs8otyE2YneYSykurzpZCkTLoIl4vu0lvdhwUOoq4rvXOQCPL_pALPhyphenhyphenhOUlN0Kn7OadvBTzUZR_Q2_j9FO-7ekDI1nJh5z38WoIVM5dDYRGP6eW-dk/s320/IMGP8654bagback.JPG" width="220" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqI58UnrHsgSMeMvxaWPqmqNqUd4qGuSqw4DCNWkK5Vbh9HRm1-EezLdEBsqCr5JNu14i_ZZaj1aJaCG6wd5tE956eDAvJwszb3fiyx5zKZY20jUo85Kve01AWWTQ7_VnWuOPFZe6eOw/s1600/IMGP8655bagwframe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqI58UnrHsgSMeMvxaWPqmqNqUd4qGuSqw4DCNWkK5Vbh9HRm1-EezLdEBsqCr5JNu14i_ZZaj1aJaCG6wd5tE956eDAvJwszb3fiyx5zKZY20jUo85Kve01AWWTQ7_VnWuOPFZe6eOw/s320/IMGP8655bagwframe.JPG" width="237" /></a><br />
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The frame sits behind a trampoline mesh which provides ample air flow on the users back.</div>
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The frame is not meant to be removable, but is possible as we found out for purposes of showing you how it works.</div>
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The pack opens by unrolling the top, which holds its shape thanks to a semi-rigid plastic strip in the seam.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3z9AFFdz-bKB83Ho4LQ253_vCH-RjnuFZocNZvYoFIkhfykvaE-VNzg0Aq1y2_gGBRLy-T_fv4odRvilOt-R3Oqd24L3eP1gn1ekc5XQSlQYByZslWgbKWsL8_GZ1rG3-DyIQ-gKyroc/s1600/IMGP8658inside.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3z9AFFdz-bKB83Ho4LQ253_vCH-RjnuFZocNZvYoFIkhfykvaE-VNzg0Aq1y2_gGBRLy-T_fv4odRvilOt-R3Oqd24L3eP1gn1ekc5XQSlQYByZslWgbKWsL8_GZ1rG3-DyIQ-gKyroc/s320/IMGP8658inside.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Rolled inside out to show the water bladder pocked with velcro strap, and a side pocket.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXb7QuLtDdKXM-AtUUVIV3jGf4_1Su7CWTmJI5LlzYV_mW6ju2H9lSXM_suU5TY3EaTQplsfcuzxi6opfoF05hPytPsHZwVu3vTNJPwno4E9fwS1fcIPgGDPiYWWGgW4YYi-mr7VPEHw/s1600/IMGP8660bagpouch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXb7QuLtDdKXM-AtUUVIV3jGf4_1Su7CWTmJI5LlzYV_mW6ju2H9lSXM_suU5TY3EaTQplsfcuzxi6opfoF05hPytPsHZwVu3vTNJPwno4E9fwS1fcIPgGDPiYWWGgW4YYi-mr7VPEHw/s320/IMGP8660bagpouch.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I first took this pack out on an overnight bike packing trip. One complaint is the corners of the mesh trampoline did rub my hips the wrong way and eventually became uncomfortable. A more upright position might prevent this. Also, accessing anything in the bag during a quick stop was not easy. It is one big compartment, and everything disappears when you want to find it. Some side pockets would make storage more organized, but at the same time would also add weight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxC70-pkhoMzZlOoAAhleRrba2w921pMMg-QVIPCyM2USGH5Td1iouwKAaWP5Jas5hYisbTNmxq4loqlV_ryYOuPTOwbiml-tLMGF0XPm8EZzjY3bJ6iclJX8t3GFtVIdJgfmN1z0I2g/s1600/1025121850-00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxC70-pkhoMzZlOoAAhleRrba2w921pMMg-QVIPCyM2USGH5Td1iouwKAaWP5Jas5hYisbTNmxq4loqlV_ryYOuPTOwbiml-tLMGF0XPm8EZzjY3bJ6iclJX8t3GFtVIdJgfmN1z0I2g/s320/1025121850-00.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGX8W6t_kss8YNmH5b84vDMg4rmzrAAGa1El7Ee0QdVpVnzC1Xbh1ihP67rVPveNSD7bWPcZYiZlzdqWSjjq3nmSHX9mKEbiZvxjCX4-KHZOHf2DiB-sPxqeBCpzkMsl4SB29yL2dEnxA/s1600/1025121850-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGX8W6t_kss8YNmH5b84vDMg4rmzrAAGa1El7Ee0QdVpVnzC1Xbh1ihP67rVPveNSD7bWPcZYiZlzdqWSjjq3nmSHX9mKEbiZvxjCX4-KHZOHf2DiB-sPxqeBCpzkMsl4SB29yL2dEnxA/s320/1025121850-01.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
The pack was comfortable riding all day, and the minimalist design kept the work space clutter-free. Strap adjustments are easy to make.<br />
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The big downside is the lack of external zipper compartments. The pack is intended to haul your stuff into camp and then be unloaded. If you want to have quick access to little items all during your trek this pack might not be right for you.<br />
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Overall, this is a great pack for day trip hiking or cycling, and even for light-weight camping trips. <br />
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<b>From Boreas site:</b><br />
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<ul style="background-color: whitesmoke; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Roboto Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue Light', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: both; height: auto; list-style-type: none !important; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; float: left; font-family: 'Roboto Bold', HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeueRoman, HelveticaNeue-Roman, 'Helvetica Neue Roman', TeXGyreHerosRegular, Helvetica, Tahoma, Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline; width: 130px;">COLORS:</strong>Farallon Black, Golden Gate Red, Marina Blue</li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: both; height: auto; list-style-type: none !important; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; float: left; font-family: 'Roboto Bold', HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeueRoman, HelveticaNeue-Roman, 'Helvetica Neue Roman', TeXGyreHerosRegular, Helvetica, Tahoma, Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 32px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline; width: 130px;">FABRICS:</strong>210D nylon ripstop with UTS impregnated silicone coating</li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: both; height: auto; list-style-type: none !important; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; float: left; font-family: 'Roboto Bold', HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeueRoman, HelveticaNeue-Roman, 'Helvetica Neue Roman', TeXGyreHerosRegular, Helvetica, Tahoma, Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 142px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline; width: 130px;">SUSPENSION: </strong>Our variable suspension, aka SUPER-TRAMP (patent pending), lets users adjust their pack with the tug of a strap. Tighten the strap and it’s a trampoline suspension, perfect for biking and hot weather travel. Loosen the strap and the pack reverts to a standard suspension, moving the weight closer to your back for more stability while hiking or climbing. And because the tension setting is infinitely variable, you can pick a spot somewhere in the middle for the best of both worlds</li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: both; height: auto; list-style-type: none !important; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; float: left; font-family: 'Roboto Bold', HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeueRoman, HelveticaNeue-Roman, 'Helvetica Neue Roman', TeXGyreHerosRegular, Helvetica, Tahoma, Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 98px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline; width: 130px;">BODY:</strong> Rolltop lid, waterproof side pocket, stretch panels allow the pack body to expand and curve depending on load and suspension setting, hydration or laptop sleeve with two hydration ports, hidden daisy chains, removable hipbelt and adjustable sternum strap</li>
</ul>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-90043523405790971122013-12-10T12:54:00.000-05:002013-12-10T12:54:08.692-05:00THOMSON Carbon Road Bar<br />
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THOMSON Carbon Road Bar</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD4XlIl7fzSGuDNlGL4HgBpWY8OpShfgWV1skUQrArfw8PzrRZheOS2C-MnbKULQQ_F4CKKuIIGEkB3N-Xrr3YlrVYQoyreco26rPfcY8le_voEYbG5FbO-8I98uT0OjugDC7idK06FY/s1600/cNHAd_pRE7mb8aw0yND6eRmP88FnSh8yGJqZhHzR1Fw.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD4XlIl7fzSGuDNlGL4HgBpWY8OpShfgWV1skUQrArfw8PzrRZheOS2C-MnbKULQQ_F4CKKuIIGEkB3N-Xrr3YlrVYQoyreco26rPfcY8le_voEYbG5FbO-8I98uT0OjugDC7idK06FY/s320/cNHAd_pRE7mb8aw0yND6eRmP88FnSh8yGJqZhHzR1Fw.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have had the chance to put some serious miles on the Thomson carbon road bar. It is a carbon bar, what makes it better? Well, any carbon bar will have the desired ride characteristics of damping road vibration while maintaining strength and light weight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">What sets Thomson apart is their fine quality and exact specifications. A nice touch is that the bar is exactly 31.8mm diameter under the clear coat. The clear coat compresses when clamped, so mated to a Thomson stem that is exactly 31.8mm you get a perfect fit, and a reduction of stress to the bar as well as a tighter fit.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">The bar comes with a tiny tube of carbon application lube, that is a gritty gel to increase friction between the stem and the bar. This reduces the clamping force necessary to hold the bar. A torque wrench should be used to 4Nm when tightening the stem bolts to avoid over-clamping and crushing the carbon.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Thomson found that the sticky goo other bars have at the clamp area only cause the bar to slip easier, especially in the drop test.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bar comes in different widths, and there is also a CX version for the winter racer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Thomson website reports:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Sans', 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">Our road bar features a mild wing shape on top, clamping area wide enough for aero bars, mid-compact reach and drop. This is the modern bar for the modern road bike. Our Road bar wing section is small enough not to restrict hand movement when riding on the top and allows bar angle adjustment with out “locking out” your wrists. Shaping on the bottom side of the wing allows housing to be taped out of the way without the use of narrow housing channels or internal routing, both of which shorten bar life. Certified to EN, tested to DIN+.</span><br />
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For Cyclocross we present the KFC-One, Katie Compton Signature ‘cross bar. Katie brings her multiple National Championships and European racing experience to give you a bar built her way for cross. The natural transition from your Thomson road bar for the ‘cross season. Twin flats on the bottom of the bar allow taping your housing to create a completely round bar when wrapped. Top profile is round and as wide as possible. This allows auxiliary brake levers to be safely used and still leaves lots of room for your hands. Certified to EN, tested to DIN+.</div>
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Layup uses 3 different fiber types with different tensile strengths and tensile modulus, including High Strength carbon fiber. This helps allocate stiffness and flex where needed.</div>
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All carbon fiber is produced by Toray and uses tailor made Nano Epoxy Resin for very high impact resistance. Toray is the main supplier of carbon fiber for Boeing and Airbus.</div>
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Both the Road and Cross bar are made in one piece, not three pieces co-molded and glued together.</div>
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Bars are molded over an EPS mandrel to avoid wrinkles inside the layup during molding. Most other bars are molded over inflatable nylon bladders.</div>
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Reach for the Road and Cross bars is the same at 78.5mm. Drop is proportional. Road drops are: 40CM 137mm, 42CM 140mm, 44CM 140mm, 46CM 143mm. Cross drops are: 40CM 131mm, 42CM 133mm, 44CM 135mm.</div>
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1.5K woven impact ends help prevent damage to uni-directional fibers from impact</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Sans', 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><table style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 99%px;"><tbody style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="20%"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Model Number</strong></td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="40%"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Handlebar Description</strong></td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="20%"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Weight</strong></td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="20%"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Retail Price</strong></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E104</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">40cm center to center-Road x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">188 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E105</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">42cm center to center-Road x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">190 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E106</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">44cm center to center-Road x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">192 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E107</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">46cm center to center-Road x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">194 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E110</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">40cm center to center-KfC-One-Cross x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">202 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E111</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">42cm center to center-KfC-One-Cross x 31.8</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">204 g</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$249.95</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">HB-E112</td><td style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">44cm center to center-KfC-One-Cross x 31.8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span>Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-82834398548658221392013-12-09T12:35:00.001-05:002021-08-22T23:21:27.936-04:00usac's UCI Rule Enforcement <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mountain bike racers have long raced all kinds of event and always will. The sense of adventure and need to compete and test their skills will draw them in many directions. The American governing body of cycling, the one recognized by the Olympics and the UCI (world governing body), known as u-sac or USA Cycling has been riddled in controversy since its inception in the mid 90's. They have made many enemies, but none so motivated as the US Cup guys.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During the 2013 season this rule came up and ShoAir-US Cup looked into fighting it, but decided it was not worth it. Since then usac has been wooing them, the final results not fully public yet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">USAC asked the UCI to make it look like the UCI was making USAC to enforce this rule. USAC asked the UCI to enforce this rule world-wide. The UCI typically had let each governing body decide wether to enforce this rule or not.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">USAC wants this rule so they can maintain a monopoly, possibly an illegal one given America's anti-trust laws. A law that needs a challenger to test it in court. No takers so far.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">America's best mountain bike events are non-usac. Many racers and promoters literally hate usac. Steve Johnson is "owner" of usac and has been observed to literally hate the sport of mountain biking. A former road racer himself, he saw mtb gain popularity and take all the athletes and money away from his beloved pavement sport. To gain control back NORBA, the original governing body for mtb, was tricked into merging with USCF (original road body) under the banner USA Cycling. Control of the money left the sport of MTB and the 35,000 MTB licensees suddenly were paying for improvements to the road scene (14,000 members). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">MTB events went downhill as usac knowingly put much less effort into the quality of these events, but did everything for the road events. Just recently, Mica Rice, was quoted in a usac.org article as calling the road racing their "marquee event". If that was a slip, or if they just don't try to hide it anymore, it is clear that USAC is a road bike organization. They just keep MTB around to satisfy the UCI and Olympic committee's regulations that a governing body must encompass all cycling disciplines. It did not hurt that they had license and promoter fees coming in weekly from those 35,000 mtb racers.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now the mtb'ers have abandon usac, or gone to the road in their love-affair with Lance. USAC MTB license numbers are way down, but USAC must keep it under their wing nonetheless. Keep its head under water would be more accurate. By maintaining the minimal requirements for the sport, or to rephrase, make it just good enough no one leaves, but bad enough that people are not in love with it, this tends to make the road scene more attractive. Those talented mtb'ers, "should come to the road", as Steve Johnson told me in person. I did give him a earful to no effect, but he confirmed everything I knew and suspected about USAC and their devious ways.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I could go on about the corruption at usac, but will stop here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will this rule be enforced in 2014? That is to be seen. My prediction when all this started was that they will enforce it of course.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ShoAir/ US Cup, the largest promoter of big mtb events, left usac to host their events without the burden of usac, and this was very popular among the racing crowd, but the very few top pros that needed usac to gain access to UCI World Cup events pouted. The US Cup has come to some agreement with Steve to join the dark side again, but unless power and control have been taken and given to a mtb advocate then little will change, and in the long run nothing will.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time will tell. There are few mtb'ers left who remember what the sport was before usac. The new crowd can not see reality, wether they are a world cup pro or a weekend warrior matters not.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many, many promoters are non-usac and have always been. This, in part, explains the low usac mtb license sales, as many refuse to buy a usac license, and have plenty of quality non-usac mtb events to attend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Star Wars fans might recognize usac as being run by an evil Sith lord, but most mtb licensees are painfully ignorant that the very organization they are supporting is the very one causing hard to their sport.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you agree you can refuse to purchase a usac license and tell your local promoter that you are choosing to support supporters of mtb rather than those that harm it. The small local promoters are the ones driving support for usac and, thus, their preferences for the road.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is some more info on how the rule all started.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just in case usac decides to remove this post here is what they said the UCI told them:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
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Clarification of UCI Rule 1.2.019 and related sanctions</h1>
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<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">To: USA Cycling Members</strong></span><br />
<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">RE: UCI Rule 1.2.019</strong></span><br />
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<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">There has been a tremendous amount of discussion and misinformation recently in articles and forums regarding UCI rule 1.2.019, which prohibits all UCI licensed riders from competing in events that are not sanctioned by a national federation. USA Cycling received the following letter from the International Cycling Union (UCI) on March 26 to all national federations clarifying its expectations in the enforcement of rule 1.2.019. It also explains what the few possible exceptions to its rule are. </span><br />
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<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">The UCI confirmed that Rule 1.2.019 and the related sanctions in 1.2.020 and 1.2.021 must apply to every UCI-recognized national federation in the world. Therefore, as a member of the International Federation, USA Cycling will comply with the direction from the UCI.</span><br />
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<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://media.usacycling.org/gallery/var/albums/usacycling/Road-Images/UCIlogo-small.jpg" rel="shadowbox" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" src="http://media.usacycling.org/gallery3/var/resizes/usacycling/Road-Images/UCIlogo-small.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; height: 55px; width: 80px;" /></a><br /><br />INT</strong><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">E</strong><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">RNATIONAL CYCLING UNION</strong></span></div>
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<span class="homearticlebody" style="background-position: 0% 0%; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><u>To all National Federations</u></span></div>
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<em style="font-style: italic;">Sent by email only</em><br />
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Aigle, 26 March 2013<br />
<em style="font-style: italic;">Ref: Presidency</em></div>
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<strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Re: forbidden races</strong><br />
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Dear President,<br />
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It has recently come to our attention that some National Federations are experiencing difficulties in the interpretation and application of the rules relating to "forbidden races", namely Articles 1.2.019,<br />
1.2.020 and 1.2.021 of the UCI Regulations.<br />
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With this in mind, we would like to provide the following clarification which we hope you will find useful. Article 1.2.019 of the UCI Regulations states:<br />
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<strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;"><em style="font-style: italic;">"No licence holder may participate in an event that has not been included on a national, continental or world calendar or that has not been recognised by a national federation, a continental confederation or the UCI.</em></strong><br />
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<strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;"><em style="font-style: italic;">A national federation may grant special exceptions for races or particular events run in its own country."</em></strong><br />
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The objective of this regulation is to protect the hard work and resources you pour into the development of your events at national level. It allows for a federative structure, something which is inherent in organised sport and which is essential to being a part of the Olympic movement.<br />
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Of course the regulation also allows the UCI, in line with its mission as an international federation, to guarantee uniform regulation.<br />
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Article 1.2.019 applies to all licence holders, without exception. It does not solely concern professional riders or just the members of UCI teams, contrary to certain statements in the press and on some blogs.<br />
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The second paragraph of Article 1.2.019 affords each national federation the facility to grant a special exception for specific races or events taking place in its territory.<br />
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Special races or events are understood to be cycle events which are not registered on the national calendar of the country's federation or on the UCI international calendar. This generally concerns events that are occasional and which do not recur, most often organised by persons or entities who do not belong to the world of organised sport. For example, an event may be organised by an association that does not have a link to the National Federation, such as a race specifically for members of the armed forces, fire fighters or students or perhaps as part of a national multisport event.<br />
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With the exception of these special cases, the National Federation is not permitted to grant an exemption to a cycle event which is held, deliberately or not, outside the federative movement. For example, in no case should an exception be granted to a cycling event that is organised by a person or entity who regularly organises cycling events.<br />
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CH 1860 Aigle <em style="font-style: italic;">I </em>Switzerland<br />
Q)+41 24 468 58 11 fax +41 24 468 58 12<br />
<a href="http://www.uci.ch/" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">www.uci.ch</a></div>
<br clear="all" />The objective of Article 1.2.019 is that exemptions should only be granted in exceptional cases.<br /><br />Licence holders who participate in a "forbidden race" make themselves liable not only to sanctions by their National Federation, as scheduled by Article 1.2.021 of the UCI regulations, but also run the risk of not having sufficient insurance cover in the event of an accident.<br /><br />Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please accept our kindest regards,<br /><br /><a href="http://media.usacycling.org/gallery/var/albums/usacycling/Road-Images/McQuaidsignature-small.jpg" rel="shadowbox" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" src="http://media.usacycling.org/gallery3/var/resizes/usacycling/Road-Images/McQuaidsignature-small.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: left; height: 60px; width: 204px;" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Pat McQuaid<br />President<br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
CH 1860 Aigle <em style="font-style: italic;">I </em>Switzerland<br />
Q)+41 24 468 58 11 fax +41 24 468 58 12<br />
<a href="http://www.uci.ch/" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">www.uci.ch</a></div>
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<br /><br /><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Clarification on affected riders:</strong> The letter from the UCI confirms no UCI licensed rider, in any discipline, may participate in an event not sanctioned by a national federation recognized by the UCI (USA Cycling is the sole national federation in the United States). Originally, this was described as only affecting those UCI-licensed riders on UCI teams. The UCI has subsequently clarified that the rule extends to <strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">ALL</strong>UCI-licensed riders, even those not associated with a UCI team. <strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">This rule only pertains to those riders holding an international/UCI license.</strong><br /><br /><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">USA Cycling Working to Ease the Transition</strong><br />USA Cycling understands the fact that this rule enforcement has a far-reaching impact on riders and race directors alike, particularly in the mountain bike discipline. To help manage the impact and assist riders and race directors with the transition, USA Cycling will work with non-sanctioned <u>mountain bike events</u> by providing the following for mountain bike events permitted with USA Cycling after April 1, 2013:<br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">For any mountain bike event that occurred in 2012, but did not sanction with USA Cycling in 2012,</strong> USA Cycling will waive the permit fee (2013 only). USA Cycling will also subsidize $1 of the $3 dollar per rider insurance surcharge. The per-rider insurance surcharge for mountain bike events that occurred in 2012 but were not permitted in 2012 will be $2 per rider (2013 only).</li>
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<strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">What a USA Cycling Event Permit Provides for Race Promoters:</strong><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Low permit fees</strong>. A mountain bike race of less than 500 riders has a maximum permit fee of $100 a day. The only other fee USA Cycling collects is a per-rider insurance charge of $3 which covers one of the most robust insurance packages in cycling for the race director, the landowners, the sponsors, and excess accident medical coverage for participants. <u>Comparable</u> insurance coverage cost per rider is much more expensive.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Racing infrastructure for a safe and level playing field including anti-doping, rules and trained officials</strong>. As the only USOC and UCI recognized cycling organization in the U.S., riders in USA Cycling events can be subject to the groundbreaking <a href="https://www.usacycling.org/usa-cycling-raceclean-program.htm" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">USA Cycling RaceClean™ anti-doping program</a> to create a level playing field.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Access to USA Cycling's online registration system</strong> that allows riders to register for events and sign <strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">electronic waivers</strong> on the USA Cycling website or by using the USA Cycling smartphone app.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">A <strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">$0.40 rebate</strong> to race directors for each registration when you use USA Cycling’s online registration system.<br /> </li>
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<strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Why you Should Support USA Cycling Sanctioned Events:</strong><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><u>USA Cycling spends more than $4 million per year supporting American athletes</u> in development and international competition programs. Much of that money is generated from the racing activities of our more than 74,000 members racing more than 600,000 racing days each year in sanctioned events. Every time you race in a sanctioned event, a small amount of revenue is generated to support critical athlete programs. Most importantly, virtually every dime USA Cycling generates as a result of your racing activities is reinvested in the sport. However, when you compete in an unsanctioned event, nothing goes to support these important programs that help to maintain our international success and create the heroes and role models that are so important to the sport.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><u>In 2012, USA Cycling spent more than $530,000 in support of mountain bike development programs</u>, world championships and pre-Olympic camps to help riders achieve their dreams on the world's biggest stages.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Professionally-licensed riders are the direct beneficiaries of USA Cycling's significant investment in athlete support. As such, they have a vested interest to support the sanctioned events that fuel that support.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Insurance protection at sanctioned events is some of the best available and provides coverage not only for the race directors, but also for the volunteers and officials working the event, as well as the racers themselves. At unsanctioned events, there is no guarantee that the insurance provides adequate coverage to anyone other than the race owner. Most unsanctioned events will claim they have comparable overall insurance coverage for their event when compared to what USA Cycling’s insurance program provides, but our own research and analysis have shown that is just not the case.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Sanctioned events provide a safe and level playing field by a consistent standard for athlete protection such as accident insurance, an enforceable code of conduct and USA Cycling's RaceClean™ anti-doping controls conducted by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.<br /> </li>
<li style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: circle; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Sanctioned events provide licensed participants with the opportunity to be part of the USA Cycling National Results and Ranking System that allows you to compare your results to everyone else in your age group by city, state, region or even nationally.</li>
</ul>
For complete information on fees, benefits and how to sanction an event with USA Cycling, click <a href="https://www.usacycling.org/news/user/story.php?id=6837" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">HERE</a><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
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<span class="smallhomearticleheader" style="font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">This Article Published April 5, 2013 For more information contact: <a href="mailto:bkellick@usacycling.org" style="color: #6699cc; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">bkellick@usacycling.org</a></span>Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-16043759105320212802013-12-07T12:09:00.000-05:002014-03-19T19:54:49.075-04:00Two-Fish Bottle Cage Mount<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWEgy6x66WSFG8Tr2_mqs8FBoTtAorogYTi-PG5prDBMypo-fDsiu-65AA0-mWqv_4yG9g5912XczqMQ9D59llXr3HwFv0Hm-7Hr8JHr9ncAiogcd0cUl6Dnx54olyWDal3bLsrAZMsQ/s1600/two-fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWEgy6x66WSFG8Tr2_mqs8FBoTtAorogYTi-PG5prDBMypo-fDsiu-65AA0-mWqv_4yG9g5912XczqMQ9D59llXr3HwFv0Hm-7Hr8JHr9ncAiogcd0cUl6Dnx54olyWDal3bLsrAZMsQ/s200/two-fish.jpg" height="200" width="143" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is a little product that should be in every one's arsenal for that special occasion. No, not your sisters wedding anniversary party, but for that time when you will need extra water, but do not have extra space for it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simply, this is a water bottle mount that can be put almost anywhere. It has a rubber half-circle backing and a big velcro strap. The back side of the seat post is the most common placement, but for my one-cage bike, I sometimes use it under the top tube while racing long events.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have ridden a few hundred miles with no issues, but finally lost it in the woods with it strapped to the post. I found the bottle a month later, but someone decided to keep the Two-Fish.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-POU3J8GPRVjJ-gGfoTRRp5IJUsROt7zzuLO_DFqhuSoqa2qrjAqW2-XOSvzKHR8y-dPmfcP-rGGspeATEmAfGqglRtn1BowKt2zFWC7FSOT13zITuXVkARt-KEaXsnqO3X_XD_1ouM/s1600/IMGP8531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-POU3J8GPRVjJ-gGfoTRRp5IJUsROt7zzuLO_DFqhuSoqa2qrjAqW2-XOSvzKHR8y-dPmfcP-rGGspeATEmAfGqglRtn1BowKt2zFWC7FSOT13zITuXVkARt-KEaXsnqO3X_XD_1ouM/s320/IMGP8531.JPG" height="236" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It straps on in seconds and is usually pretty secure. With it under the top tube I have never had any issues. Access to the bottle is fairly easy and did not interfere with my other bottle on my size large frame. Smaller frames might require only using the smaller bottles.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is my old race bike set up for a summer camping trip.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhno1uO4Sc49TBbm2qBzr0j9-1IAM5C9TuP3vY6kKpoHqiEXKI3gDzJw_fjROnDZaT3KCCC47mnFqydaJ7FwHXH9UC6r6fSxXL6TSXh3XSZ-SmCTJQghoav6I4FKzW_Bfl_QKrfd55el48/s1600/IMGP8270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhno1uO4Sc49TBbm2qBzr0j9-1IAM5C9TuP3vY6kKpoHqiEXKI3gDzJw_fjROnDZaT3KCCC47mnFqydaJ7FwHXH9UC6r6fSxXL6TSXh3XSZ-SmCTJQghoav6I4FKzW_Bfl_QKrfd55el48/s200/IMGP8270.JPG" height="140" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ8SXcmZ7vLCqlqrdpUm9ze74QVI8XzIiD8xCI6bY8Gg8qP2mW6C65QTtRQgw0siHMzwFV0z6n0a3k4RaLiOhf6JICAgkNy4BEcOINuebW1iLPY0D89nlKcKdzgHnRmdM8rYEDSP51bg/s1600/IMGP8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ8SXcmZ7vLCqlqrdpUm9ze74QVI8XzIiD8xCI6bY8Gg8qP2mW6C65QTtRQgw0siHMzwFV0z6n0a3k4RaLiOhf6JICAgkNy4BEcOINuebW1iLPY0D89nlKcKdzgHnRmdM8rYEDSP51bg/s200/IMGP8271.JPG" height="158" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This model came with an alloy cage, but can easily be changed out to your cage choice.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ8SXcmZ7vLCqlqrdpUm9ze74QVI8XzIiD8xCI6bY8Gg8qP2mW6C65QTtRQgw0siHMzwFV0z6n0a3k4RaLiOhf6JICAgkNy4BEcOINuebW1iLPY0D89nlKcKdzgHnRmdM8rYEDSP51bg/s1600/IMGP8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptankCmvKP8u8r0yJzbahFpuGWKeVwi5yg0cFvlGVLmfSPBe3OJM2ycVEwDivsJh6KM-4BNNFZgIqvJ_pbJrafyjTaKnn70sLDsY9Azk8d0HQ_6A_wGhKfpvpqFBvuhxWJr7jCSJodhg/s1600/IMGP8272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptankCmvKP8u8r0yJzbahFpuGWKeVwi5yg0cFvlGVLmfSPBe3OJM2ycVEwDivsJh6KM-4BNNFZgIqvJ_pbJrafyjTaKnn70sLDsY9Azk8d0HQ_6A_wGhKfpvpqFBvuhxWJr7jCSJodhg/s320/IMGP8272.JPG" height="225" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The rubber backing molds to any shape or size application and is tacky enough to stay in place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The velcro is wide and strong. I only experienced a little wobble with it mounted, but was not an issue - not until I lost it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two-Fish has many other products for bottle placements.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Update:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since the review I have continued to use the mount. Mostly it is used on the back of the seat post, but it fell out on a not-so-bumpy trail. I found the bottle a month later, but someone kepis the Two Fish. I now use a modified bottle cage and hold it in place with an automotive hose clamp. If you are worried I suggest using a hose clamp in place of the velcro.</span>Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-39277360696438775942013-07-24T11:37:00.000-04:002013-07-25T17:05:20.065-04:00MTB National Championships Video Interviews<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clips from the event. More footage on the way will be added into this page as they upload.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Juniors, Pros, Women, U 23...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pro Mens Highlights</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ASKdToyEEro" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Stephen Ettinger takes the win in this 6-lap race, Todd ins, JB 3rd.</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Junior Sport Nationals</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/evHgDoMW_-E" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Highlights from the Cat II Jr XC race.</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Junior Expert Nationals </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ZJvHHPXSGvo" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Highlights from the race</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">U-23 Nationals</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qAX_pU9fu8E" width="560"></iframe><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Highlights from the race</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Pro Men before and near start</span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eTpm0s8M_vw" width="560"></iframe><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>pre-race with JB and Todd and a few race clips</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JB</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RMTV1iH4kLA" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>JB after the race and a few clips</i></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mary </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px;">McConneloug</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Q9wNA75yuBM" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>pre-race interview</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Georgia Gould</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/EwW5_phODvc" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>pre-race interview on the start line</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Carey</span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hAHcStFxuC8" width="560"></iframe><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>post-race interview with women's single speed national champion.</i></span>Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-59642111007322083122013-07-23T22:25:00.004-04:002022-10-01T16:06:13.657-04:00Carbon full suspension BMV<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Cheap carbon options from China</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZzgf76AYXnvla1RRhuAdyKdpTLVld9QA3qX5vI-a9LoEj62tEXANEM_x3-umbw7O8r6mATqD-34VsoESaLaSanSLJ3DDcTjHNbspoXjUk-APLM9vR5Cj6S8TUJPkym4ZNdMh7n-WKxU/s1600/IMGP8740.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZzgf76AYXnvla1RRhuAdyKdpTLVld9QA3qX5vI-a9LoEj62tEXANEM_x3-umbw7O8r6mATqD-34VsoESaLaSanSLJ3DDcTjHNbspoXjUk-APLM9vR5Cj6S8TUJPkym4ZNdMh7n-WKxU/s320/IMGP8740.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Their business practices are shady, their English worse, but they almost own manufacturing in the World. Already making bicycle parts for name brand cycling companies, now these factories have turned their expertise to making their own in-house bicycle parts for much less money.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">These parts have all the technology behind them as workers already make parts for their high-end customers. What is lacking is all the media hype and research and development seen in brands you already know.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRUcvsJrMMa4y-k0LTcUWhiplRO4DG4dMHFzKFDbz20tXYWi-irdyENL7R-Zr2rZ2X_xy17RBUA9xGiGgQeYE4PdWTHNcHij-TR_TlD7QUpmb-lO425u0AzYF2QR95FdC9mAYLFOOiYw/s1600/carbonese.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRUcvsJrMMa4y-k0LTcUWhiplRO4DG4dMHFzKFDbz20tXYWi-irdyENL7R-Zr2rZ2X_xy17RBUA9xGiGgQeYE4PdWTHNcHij-TR_TlD7QUpmb-lO425u0AzYF2QR95FdC9mAYLFOOiYw/s200/carbonese.png" width="200" /></span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The above bike frame is a near replica of a Scott Spark, their high-end full carbon race bike. The geometry is identical, but they take design tips from other brands and incorporate them, such as the "handle" at the seat tube/top tube junction seen on many Specialized bikes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">This bike was purchased from a China seller. The main difference is in the price as the ride and weights are near identical to their near-cousin name brand versions.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Already this test frame has been put through the paces on some of the southeast's most demanding trails and has put smiles on the riders faces. The frames are offered in 29 and 27.5 inch wheeled versions as well as hard tails.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">In a time where carbon bicycle components and frames are seeing sky-rocketing prices riders still want to protect their wallets. The name-brand frames are not US made; the money goes over seas anyway, but these cheap alternatives are cutting out the middle man and giving the bike shops a source of reasonably priced bicycles.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I call it BMV because the ride is so sweet you will want it to be your Valentine too.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Update: I have well over 7,000 miles on this frame and with no issues. I have serviced the pivot bearings once, and the ones lower on the frame needed it, as is common to all frames.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">My only complaint was in the initial build I could only arrange the front derailleur high enough to fit a 38 tooth ring, but this is no longer an issue with 1x11.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I have just replaced the </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">chain stay portion with a new thru-axle chain stay, and this has stiffened up the rear end a little.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Update II: I rode this for 3 years, racing and riding, but retired it when I got a new bike. The parts have been swapped over to a 120 travel frame of the same factory and that one has 10,000 miles on it from all over the country and still going.<br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The cable routing is wrong. When will frame makers realize that the cables from the right side of the bar route around the left side of the frame, and the ones on left to the right? This also has the rear brake as an internal routing through the frame and the derailleurs external. I do not route the brake internally because that requires disconnecting the hose and finding new parts to re-connect. Instead I routed one of the derailleur cables through, and this is not the smoothest of routing lines, but works just fine. I then attach the brake hose externally where the shifter housing went. It works, but smart riders have been routing cables smoothly around the other side for over 20 years now. Come on guys….</span></div>
<br />Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-68400477806010530572013-07-21T13:30:00.000-04:002013-07-21T13:30:23.776-04:00Mountain Bike US Nationals 2013 <div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">July 20, 2013, Bear Creek resort, PA</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVIobQbCyOYyg1RO2eEk6uOHqOIZnBM1i0YCQHi3g0ZJmYDjm6nWMHybe__D03qGqLAfyLv-qAPSmfub9yn4w8_aJsdLmAlAFIctScfL40aWl-MbrkMRHYbJV4HI1cMAH2Ujwr9wbtHo/s1600/ettinger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVIobQbCyOYyg1RO2eEk6uOHqOIZnBM1i0YCQHi3g0ZJmYDjm6nWMHybe__D03qGqLAfyLv-qAPSmfub9yn4w8_aJsdLmAlAFIctScfL40aWl-MbrkMRHYbJV4HI1cMAH2Ujwr9wbtHo/s320/ettinger.jpg" width="270" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephen Ettinger National Champion</td></tr>
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Across the cycling world mountain bikers are contesting their one-day national championships to crown the national champion in cross country, short track and super-d. The mountain bike race changes locations every two years encompassing all the diversity the US has to offer mountain bike racers.<br />
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Pennsylvania's uniqueness consist of very technically challenging terrain, mostly lots of cabbage-sized rocks sprinkled on the trailed. Locals know this as just a trail, visitors see an impossible series of obstacles that they must learn to navigate before they can race. <br />
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The real story is the athletes, as Todd Wells of Specialized puts it, "the same riders always seem to surface to the top no matter what the course is like". Todd was the favorite going into this event, but a very technical course would have favored Jeremiah Bishop of Sho-Air/Cannondale. The location and technical, very technical, nature of the trails seemed to give Bishop an obvious advantage, but the governing body of road cycling had the race course re-surfaced to bring it in line with the average western-style course. Bishop was hoping for rain to come in and make a mess of the course to favor his east coast style riding, but his rain dance efforts were of no use as the rain did come, but the dry course absorbed it overnight. In the end it was the 90 degree heat and high humidity that played the protagonist.<br />
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During the 6-lap race both Bishop and Wells traded off the lead as they distanced themselves from the pack. Not too far behind were a group containing Mike Broderick, riding a great race, but who flatted out to 8th near the end.<br />
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Todd Wells, who is a former national champion, looked like he had command of the race with a healthy lead of near a minute over challenger Bishop. The humidity was working on the fast charging lead riders though; Todd was suffering and Bishop was suffering. Their charge off the front at the start was catching up with them. Meanwhile, back in the main group of followers, StephEttinger had been pacing himself well. By the 4th lap Steven was close enough to see the dust trails and would soon be sitting in Bishop's then Todd's draft. That order would not last long before Steven passed and dropped everyone and looked comfortable doing it.<br />
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Steven had hoped for a good finish, so a win was not totally unexpected, but he was ecstatic in the light of his celebrity competitors.<br />
<br />Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-26434185266788459512013-07-18T08:47:00.002-04:002021-08-22T23:23:04.996-04:00USA National Championships. Usac brings children to tears.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What's become of our sport? For years and years usac, the governing body of cycling, has neglected the sport of mountain biking. At Nationals usac typically treats the 12 and under racers as incapable of riding trails. It may seem like a minor issue, but is a big deal for those parents and kids involved.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The young kids ride the adult race course lap all season so are used to whatever trail conditions are present, and are more than capable of managing any course their adult counterparts can handle.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The purpose of a National Championship is to crown the best of the best. It is a time when the top racers from across the nation converge, and for juniors might be the only event all the top racers in their category are together.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every year, without fail, usac advertises the juniors event as it should be run, but changes everything entirely one or two days before the event. They change it for the worse. They say it is for safety reasons or that the course is too hard or too long for anyone of these young ages. They hear from first-time racers present that complain, but hear nothing from able racers who ride and are fine with the original course. This is not a place for first-time racers or those unable to complete a normal lap. The laps were advertised and the distances were set.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">usac hosted a "riders meeting" two days before the kids races. They announced the course changes and explained there were safety concerns about "kids being out there for hours". In short, all their reasons were bogus and kids and parents at the meeting voiced their anger, outrage and complaints. Many of those who spoke out against the "dumbing-down" of the race course received rounds of applause. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One particular 14 year old girl who traveled quite a distance explained that she had trained for this event, purchased expensive equipment for this event, and had been practicing on the original course all week. Almost in tears she asked why she, a very capable and talented rider, was expected to race through the grass and around some cones at the National </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Championship. The usac official conducting the meeting, err press release, explained that that was the decision handed down and was final.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The highest level of junior racing, Cat I 15-18, was not forgotten about. Per their own rules the junior races should last between 60 and 75 minutes. All reports indicated that the top juniors would be doing about an 18 minute lap. Usac decided for them to do 3 laps, breaking their own guidelines giving the racers a race less than 60 minutes when a 4 lap race would put them right at the normal finish time as the sport has always seen.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The usac official continued to insist this is what is in the best interest of the racers and that there is nothing she could do. She would take these concerns back to the board. The angry crowd requested that the board attend the meeting. The board meets in "secret" and will not bother to attend the meeting. People started to get the feeling that usac felt they were almighty, but it was clear that usac's opinions did not reflect the racing publics expectations.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the end some changes were made to return the course to something more resembling the original advertised route, but people were soured on usac and only satisfied on a mediocre level.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Usac was unwilling to admit mistakes. Perhaps the only mistake they will admit to is offering a public forum for people to voice their concerns. We will see if there is ever another meeting, or if the meetings are changed to "announcements" in the future.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even after the races, when mistakes were found, usac was unwilling to admit there could be mistakes. They stand their ground and announce they are flawless, without error and that their systems could never allow a mistake.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Attendees walk away from their National Championship disgusted, but trying to find the good experiences they had rather than let the dirty underbelly of usac ruin their enjoyment of a sport they love so much.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mid-week there was a internet radio talk show aired. In it issues with usac of another topic were raised. Quite a bit of insight was revealed about the problems with usac. The radio show left hope that things will change very soon.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mountain biking is a great sport and there are many, many great people with big hearts and a passion for the sport that are doing great things. This sport thrives despite usac.</span></div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-36072377304629409682013-05-10T11:06:00.001-04:002013-05-10T19:58:12.541-04:00PMBAR Race<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventure Race</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have ridden all over this area of Pisgah National Forest, just North of Brevard, but not competed in this race until now. I got the call from Garth Prosser, Garth is a laid-back dude of the same vintage as myself and we get along well. I can pour on the smack talk thick, and he can dish it right back, and we have fun with it. I had planned to do a 6-hour solo race at home on a course I didn't care to ride multiple laps on, so the beckoning of the Pisgah single track gave Garth the 2nd half of his team. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">PMBAR is a race where teams of two, 100 teams of two, must reach 5, 6 or 7 check points to complete the race. Checkpoints 6 and 7 are optional, but offer a 1 hour time reduction for each. They each will add just under an hour to your total time, so the time gain bonus is marginal, but the fatigue level might neutralize the gains.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As my first year, the rules were still fuzzy, but our plan was to hit all the checkpoints. Previous year's winners had hit all the check points. The rules are, and I'm more clear on it now, that you need 5 checkpoints, and who has the fastest time wins. The 6th and 7th checkpoint reduce your ride time by an hour each.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The checkpoints are a secret until the start of the race, although the promoter set up tents a day or two before for the officials to have, or for seriously over-extended racers to take a nap. Some racers might have gotten drift of the locations. There seems to always be a checkpoint on Laurel Mountain, somewhere near Turkey Pen trailhead, and on Black Mountain. This knowledge is of no help as racers want to make the most efficient route to hit all of their targeted checkpoints, not just the known ones.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3EaSP1eC87tOU0oADS0RFbZXh6U1gZhbsGRw4Blj2S6_F_jibjo_Al7IAQRGqXzdAEYmErT4KyFP-Q_xIe8xq2pW5eIkX27m87VSfoX-WUDtB44J-iNcKfwiGqalVWd9-zuS0T_gxjc/s1600/934765_10201233644028129_1968356253_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3EaSP1eC87tOU0oADS0RFbZXh6U1gZhbsGRw4Blj2S6_F_jibjo_Al7IAQRGqXzdAEYmErT4KyFP-Q_xIe8xq2pW5eIkX27m87VSfoX-WUDtB44J-iNcKfwiGqalVWd9-zuS0T_gxjc/s320/934765_10201233644028129_1968356253_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the start we have just minutes to open the race passport and lay out a route. Every team takes their own route. Some wait until the first intersection to open their map, opting to get ahead of traffic, but in years past you had to perform a task before leaving, so everyone was franticly scanning for the strange.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, there is the basics, now the race:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Ready, Set, Go!</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We open the map and decide to study a route before leaving, that cost us a lot of time, but we hope it pays off as taking the wrong route can cost big time. We decide our route, or I decided. Garth has always been with a team partner that knows the woods, so he had no opinion, and he said his navigation skills were limited to being able to follow the other guy. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In general, the quickest way to the top of a mountain is straight up, even if you have to hike, not bike. We decided to get to the top of Laurel Mountain via way of Pilot Rock - one of the most rugged descents in the forest, so not the best ride-up trail. It was quicker though.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bradley Creek trail was also a factor. It has 15 deep stream crossings at least; ankle biting rocks, and strength sapping cold water. Going down that trail made more sense than going up as cold muscles don't like to work. Skipping it altogether seemed the best choice.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know the trails, but not well enough to know which route is quicker than the other in my head. I came pretty close. Our route sent us clockwise, opposite from the majority of the racers.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, before I forget, we had to be self-sufficient. No feed zones, no sag drops, no water. I had a Steri-pen, the one I reviewed in another </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://mtbandy.blogspot.com/2012/07/steripen-water-treatment.html">post</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, which enabled me to grab water out of any stream with just a 45 second treatment per bottle. I carried several doses of drink mix and about a dozen food items. <i>[insert picture of un-used food stuffs here</i>] We didn't drink much water because it was pretty cold and our pace was slow enough for a predicted 7 hour ride. As it turns out every checkpoint had energy bars to share. Garth drank directly from the stream.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our time spent mapping put us at the back going up a long single track climb, and passing a lot of teams walking. That always make you feel fast! Once at the first intersection we parted ways with the majority of the racers who were going in the opposite direction as us.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gart had competed in the Cohutta 100 just 7 days before, a 100 mile off-road race in the rain that you don't recover from in a week, so we knew the other teams would have a fitness advantage over us. Only a better course choice would gain us the advantage back. I was also not fully recovered from a big block of training, so we each were less than ready. Hopefully our route would work, but we had nothing to lose.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To the first checkpoint at Avery Creek (about mile 10), we could go down and up, or up and down to hit it, there was no clear choice. I think up and down would have been 5 minutes quicker than our down and up route, but I could not remember where those nasty sections were in relation to the CP.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The quickest way to CP 2 (~mile 18) was up and over Club Gap, then down hwy 276 and out the forest service road. This is about a 40 minute round trip out and back. The Garmin said 30 when I studied it after, but I am not sure it is right. On the gravel road we probably talked too much rather than raced, but Garth was at his limit. As it turns out the winning team would push each other in such a situation as to maintain their speed. I wasn't up for that.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On our way back from CP 2 we started second-guessing our route. Something I do not like to do, I tend to trust map-in-hand Andy above riding-and-thinking Andy. By now we had figured out the rules of getting just 5 CP's and skipping the bonus ones. There were 3 mandatory CP's, but which ones were they again? Was Turkey Pen one? Garth didn't remember Turkey Pen was one, but it was never called that in the passport, it was called Bradley Creek, the same area. If we skip Turkey then we have a kick-butt route, yes, we like that. We talked on and on about that. However, what if Turkey is mandatory: We need plan B, we need to pull out the passport and check, but no need to stop and lose time as we will stop before we need to tun anyway, so we decided to just make Plan A and Plan B. I finally asked another racer and he confirmed that it was, whether we call it Turkey Pen or Bradley Creek, we had to hit it. We looked at the passport later to confirm again. Much of the early race mileage was spent pondering the route.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rolling into Laurel Mtn CP</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our next plan was to hit Pilot Cove, then Pilot Rock CP's, then roll down Mills River. Both of these involve super steep technical uphill efforts. We did the bigger one, Pilot Rock, first. After descending to the CP Garth figured it would take too long to backtrack as planned. The CP was placed right where there was no clear fastest way back down. But, by continuing straight we would miss Pilot Cove CP. That's fine, it's just an hour time bonus that would net us maybe 15 minutes, but fatigue us further. This also means going down Bradley Creek, something we decided not to do. The other route would have been fast paced riding on easy trail. Bradley has many slow spots and more stream crossings than any trail should ever have. My ankles are still sore from the bashing the rocks provided.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the bottom of Laurel Mtn trail, below the Pilot Rock CP (~ mile 32), Stephen Janes was there with grilled cheese sandwiches and chips. I resisted at first knowing what greasy food would do to a racing stomach, but by this point our pace had slowed enough that it doesn't matter. That tasted good as I shoved the whole thing in my mouth before my speed picked up on the downhill too much.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGa0or8M4A4fdAmFLUGXxnlmuZHs9CsMmFt1ANPz8tjHsI8DxZR6LQTBYssW1pGdrfw2zkTboSyPUNGjJMzOiX2diLB7G_olFM2-Nk0utC0YrqeLXHJVG3oFe8iQiZawUhUZhNVexVCY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-10+at+7.24.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGa0or8M4A4fdAmFLUGXxnlmuZHs9CsMmFt1ANPz8tjHsI8DxZR6LQTBYssW1pGdrfw2zkTboSyPUNGjJMzOiX2diLB7G_olFM2-Nk0utC0YrqeLXHJVG3oFe8iQiZawUhUZhNVexVCY/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-05-10+at+7.24.00+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Route</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I told Garth that I had never ridden Bradley Creek to the end, so wasn't sure where the trai</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">l popped out, the normal route was off-limits to the racers, but the trailhead should be at the bottom of the hill at the stream. It's more of a river than a "creek". There were two racers filling their bottles at the trail, so we just asked them. Then down we went, not too long, about 50 feet, and we crossed one of many deep rain-swollen stream crossings. We kept seeing the road up to our left and the many short-cut trails we could have taken to quicken our route, oh, well.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We cruised along uneventful knowing it was good we did the clean trails first and not these muddy mucky ones turning our bikes brown, and our chains to sandpaper. Bradley Creek trail was at around the 40 mile mark - see elevation chart below, all downhill.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the Bradley Creek CP (mile 44), aka Turkey Pen, it was off to one of my favorite trails - Mulinax and Squirrel (CP at about mile 48). I kept Garth close on my wheel on the downhills as he was riding a little faster in my flow than he would alone. We chatted it up the whole way.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By now it was raining, so the chains were getting gritty, I stopped to rinse some muck off mine, I let Garth go ahead. The bike is working flawlessly and the shifting still spot on, I think it must be around the 7 hour mark by now (~ mile 55). I finally needed to stop and fill a bottle; I had only consumed two bottles thanks to the cold and wet. I was getting a little dehydrated too. Garth squirted some Pro link on the chains as I treated the water and off we went. Though the KMC chain had been treated with Prolink before the race, it never hurts to add</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next and final CP was the top of Black Mountain (~ mile 59). At the start line we tried to determine which side was easier to ascend, the North or the South. This affected our route decision. I still don't know as each has a fair amount of hiking, but the North side ascends only 600 feet from the trailhead while the South 800 feet. The South has more rideable sections so might have been the better choice. Either way we were ascending the North face now.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We walked a lot anyway, my legs were getting tired. Garth has long legs and can walk uphill faster than anyone I have seen. Now I was the one getting dropped on the climbs. He had the passport so he could arrive at the CP a little bit earlier and have it all taken care of.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgftyvEpR8cFicApYaX_SD6r9_xXS8ldzlru1-0HteDmJrVpDBx6Y8cc1PN7AXqe6n_8Y41KRj5jt4uxbwe_7CWqaI0EHeLW93BKqskDXjVATTrra1e_V6hmCiLfXnpMDN9RsUZmtuRk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-10+at+7.23.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgftyvEpR8cFicApYaX_SD6r9_xXS8ldzlru1-0HteDmJrVpDBx6Y8cc1PN7AXqe6n_8Y41KRj5jt4uxbwe_7CWqaI0EHeLW93BKqskDXjVATTrra1e_V6hmCiLfXnpMDN9RsUZmtuRk/s640/Screen+Shot+2013-05-10+at+7.23.42+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation profile of our ride</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now the rain was coming down steady. All we had left was the big mountain downhill down Black Mountain back to the finish line. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Someone told us that Sam's team had hit their last CP and were headed back. I figured that must have been two hours ago, as she was a good distance from where she could have seen them, that would put us 2.5 hours behind them given we still had 30 mins to go. They had to have only hit 5 CP's, and not gone for the bonus. If they are 2.5 hours ahead then there will be other teams ahead also. Our slower pace and bonus CP's did not help, but my math was spot on as it turns out; we were 2.5 hours back at the finish.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We still hate not getting that last CP in, maybe just for bragging rights, but we were ready for civilization again: hot showers, and cooked food. I kept Garth on my wheel as we sped down the hill. My rear brake started to fade, so Garth took the lead. Finger frozen. Temps dropped to 36 degrees on the top of the mountains, so that explains the numbness. Now the brakes were fading and the fingers could not pull any harder.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We finally reach the finish! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(mile 62.8)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Garth was amazed at my smooth riding, then I showed him my </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://mtbandy.blogspot.com/2011/12/vee-rubber-new-tires.html">Vee Rubber</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> tires. The tread is a dry conditions semi-slick design, not intended for mud. It is a super fast tire, but made the muddy turns and climbs a challenge.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hot burritos at the finish line greeted us, and Eric, the promoter, was all smiles as he sees racers come in smiling also. I normally would not spend 8 or 9 hours in the rain and mud, but this was a fun ride. We ended up taking 6th place somehow. All but one in front of us just did the minimum - slackers! lol. This was a fun event.</span></div>
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<div class="detailsSummaryCategory" id="detailsTimingBox" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', arial, tahoma, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="detailsBoxCollapseArea" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 7px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="summaryTable timing" id="timeSummary" style="color: #2d2d2d; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 24px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Time:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">7:40:09</td></tr>
<tr><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top" width="145">Moving Time:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">7:11:59</td></tr>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Elapsed Time:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">8:52:45</td></tr>
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<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="summaryTable timing" id="speedSummary" style="color: #2d2d2d; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 9px; margin-left: 24px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Avg Speed:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">8.2 mph</td></tr>
<tr><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top" width="145">Avg Moving Speed:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">8.7 mph</td></tr>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Max Speed:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">34.9 mph</td></tr>
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<div class="detailsBoxToggleWrapper" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 7px; max-width: 190px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; right: -5px; top: -35px;">
<div class="detailsBoxToggle toggleSelected" id="speedButton" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #838383; background-image: url(http://connect.garmin.com/api/activity/component/details/style/images/details-nav-item-bg.png); background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; color: white; cursor: default; float: right; font-size: 11px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 2px; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 2px;">
Speed</div>
<div class="detailsBoxToggle " id="paceButton" style="color: black; cursor: pointer; float: right; font-size: 11px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 2px; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 70px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 2px;">
Pace</div>
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<div class="detailsSummaryCategory" id="detailsElevationBox" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', arial, tahoma, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="detailsBoxDivider" style="border-top-color: rgb(216, 216, 216); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; height: 7px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 7px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
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<div class="detailsBoxCollapseArea" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 7px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="summaryTable elevation" style="color: #2d2d2d; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 9px; margin-left: 24px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Elevation Gain:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">17,233 ft</td></tr>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Elevation Loss:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">17,230 ft</td></tr>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Min Elevation:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">2,152 ft</td></tr>
<tr><td class="summaryTableLabel" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap; width: 160px;">Max Elevation:</td><td style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; white-space: nowrap;" valign="top">4,862 ft</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Double Dare is in October, the same kind of race, only a little shorter, but over two days. Now I am a wiser man so would not be going into it blind. We'll see....</span></div>
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Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0Brevard, NC, USA35.302797817405796 -82.7188110351562535.250959317405794 -82.799492035156248 35.3546363174058 -82.638130035156252tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-51592296403043351612013-02-15T12:27:00.002-05:002014-10-28T21:08:37.523-04:00Speed Sleev Seat Sleev<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Speed Sleev Seat Sleev Saddle Pack for the minimalist</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.speedsleev.com/seatsleev.html">http://www.speedsleev.com/seatsleev.html</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8H9gSn9VcU6S-B27_pf2WOQyjbi9jtMr-SCm3oHoR7YE8F0WfY2H_ov7QZIBFq3YXvETKeIHoEf_lKrU4frWhqEa4MGsNZXqW1EeGQ7GLjbhbZLgEYuRFxBuTFmZ3pMPQhyphenhyphenlbMvjgHyw/s1600/IMGP8727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8H9gSn9VcU6S-B27_pf2WOQyjbi9jtMr-SCm3oHoR7YE8F0WfY2H_ov7QZIBFq3YXvETKeIHoEf_lKrU4frWhqEa4MGsNZXqW1EeGQ7GLjbhbZLgEYuRFxBuTFmZ3pMPQhyphenhyphenlbMvjgHyw/s320/IMGP8727.JPG" height="288" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Speed Sleev Seat Sleev is a simple device at first glance, but is actually an advanced retention system for your carry goods.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Able to hold as much as you can stuff in it, thanks to the wide elastic band with different size "pockets" for different size items. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pockets are actually sleeves open at both ends that allow you to access your items without opening the whole system. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is also a cover that protects from mud and flying debris. This is made out of super light-weight ripstop nylon, and surprisingly has not gotten lost yet.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pictured above is a comfortable amount of items to carry in the Speed Sleev. Adding more tends to compromise the load and could lead to lost items. You have to be brave to store your tools in the sleeves at first as there is nothing but the elastic to keep them secure. The shape of the CO2's and the <a href="http://mtbandy.blogspot.com/2013/02/fix-it-sticks.html">Fix It Sticks</a> multi-tool seems to work best. They each taper on the ends which help the elastic cup around the ends. The rubber tube never slips as the rubber provides enough friction.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaNSetH0TqnE3RAVxwFGW_-G_NMrYTvqzZIUWFnYZzfLTtdsGcxgduH1ZcFUThHPmVwOjdrs3IEYf0jffO9hxlAEazg11-Chi8EVXYpUlpjfjM-I5tmi6J9c0Tzo70xooSpMwTLKheyQ/s1600/IMGP8653sleeve.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaNSetH0TqnE3RAVxwFGW_-G_NMrYTvqzZIUWFnYZzfLTtdsGcxgduH1ZcFUThHPmVwOjdrs3IEYf0jffO9hxlAEazg11-Chi8EVXYpUlpjfjM-I5tmi6J9c0Tzo70xooSpMwTLKheyQ/s320/IMGP8653sleeve.JPG" height="316" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With no empty spaces to fill this is the most compact saddle pack possible.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Care should be taken that the inner tube does not touch the bolt on the post as shaking could rub a hole in the tube eventually.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pack did not rattle or give any evidence it was there.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On my maiden ride I tried to stuff a nylon tool pack in with the tube, and promptly lost the tool bag. Everything else stayed put, and to date there have been no other issues. The trick is really to only carry items that fit the selected pocket, and that are not prone to slip. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As long as the item fits within the sleeve, or tapers smaller at the end of the sleeve, there seems to be no issues.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The hook and loop fasteners are more than ample to hold the contents.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To secure to the saddle: pass the fasteners between the inside of the rails from underneath, then over the rails and around and under the Speed Sleeve to connect on the bottom. Where the straps are sewn to the Speed Sleev should end up directly under the saddle between the rails (as the top of the Speed Sleeve), not on the bottom side of the Speed Sleeve. This is identical to the strapping method for any saddle bag, but most people get it backwards.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.speedsleev.com/seatsleev.html">Speed Sleev Seat Sleev</a> is a cool little inch item that will satisfy the minimalist riders and give quick access to tools for racers in a hurry. Sleev, not Sleeve, spelled with 2 "E's", not 3.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Edit:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Response from Speed Sleev:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #454545; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Thanks for the review, pretty spot on. We have made a few changes, including a stronger strap so it will truly hold whatever you can jam in there, and the tube holder section is hinged for easier loading and better retention of different size objects (like the tool you wanted to put in there). </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #454545; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">We are also using some new materials in [the second] edition [of] the original, the new bag is made mostly our of carbon fiber sail cloth. We are also releasing a bigger size that will carry two road tubes and more Co2's or 1 29er tire for MTB application.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #454545; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I look forward to trying the new version. I do not use the Speed Sleev much, as for me, it is not that speedy, and high risk of losing items.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Update: I have not used the SS at all. I lost a few items out of it, so it is really not working for my needs. I have seen their new version that holds items at 90 degrees to what I had, so maybe this retains them better. I just feel safer with things zipped up and secure.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The SS does fine holding a tube with a CO2, but adding other items could lead to trouble.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I look forward to trying their new improved version soon.</span></span></div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-65994537161381127772013-02-04T20:24:00.001-05:002013-02-04T20:24:05.997-05:00Fix It Sticks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fix It Sticks is the newest mini tool yet to hit the market. The idea is genius in its simplicity and practical in its pack-ability.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywWNTXnAZKRm4cV2iZ2Z2Lg2Ny6FjFH4b9M1as-jGB-f1ea_nMy6aUgwn0CAXDOUpFYLQdKy_FAxHJMSnalP1Ot31lBiiAPT_NDR98C_u2x-3BboZDi95RY53t3eKBynZrpRsVur1hvc/s1600/IMGP8723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywWNTXnAZKRm4cV2iZ2Z2Lg2Ny6FjFH4b9M1as-jGB-f1ea_nMy6aUgwn0CAXDOUpFYLQdKy_FAxHJMSnalP1Ot31lBiiAPT_NDR98C_u2x-3BboZDi95RY53t3eKBynZrpRsVur1hvc/s200/IMGP8723.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfB2JmdDFTqFSemjTdhletT4ri4Og828yiA_Qftu5kzsavC391w_2SgM9uUl0ChOYR6s5Qn0Z-5z2KDS7_CuxunPbbqIe98gxD4ReqlW5jCgDDPzqCFwIdRpSG8z4VN_itja1-lKoPrA/s1600/IMGP8724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfB2JmdDFTqFSemjTdhletT4ri4Og828yiA_Qftu5kzsavC391w_2SgM9uUl0ChOYR6s5Qn0Z-5z2KDS7_CuxunPbbqIe98gxD4ReqlW5jCgDDPzqCFwIdRpSG8z4VN_itja1-lKoPrA/s200/IMGP8724.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i>Small tools with power applications. </i></div>
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<i>Pictured here with Phillips head, 4, 5 and 6 mm Allen wrenches.</i></div>
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<i>As the picture shows, each hex-shaped steel bit fits into the other alloy body to form the T. The coupling is a perfect fit and feels solid.</i></div>
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Aluminum machined bodies hold those common driver bits, and the bodies fit together to form a T-handle allowing huge torque.</div>
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While it would seem universally adaptable if the bits were replaceable, the reality is they would get lost and leave you stranded when you most need it. The bits instead are pressed into the body for a permanent fit. On mine I can see a slight bulge where the bit was really pressed in firm, so you know it will hold. Fix It Sticks does offer a "build your own" option so you can get the bits you want, and you are not limited to just two sticks, get three and have 6 tools instead of 4.</div>
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The downside is the lack of a chain tool that other mini-tools might have, but we await a super light alloy chain tool compatible with the Sticks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8H9gSn9VcU6S-B27_pf2WOQyjbi9jtMr-SCm3oHoR7YE8F0WfY2H_ov7QZIBFq3YXvETKeIHoEf_lKrU4frWhqEa4MGsNZXqW1EeGQ7GLjbhbZLgEYuRFxBuTFmZ3pMPQhyphenhyphenlbMvjgHyw/s1600/IMGP8727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8H9gSn9VcU6S-B27_pf2WOQyjbi9jtMr-SCm3oHoR7YE8F0WfY2H_ov7QZIBFq3YXvETKeIHoEf_lKrU4frWhqEa4MGsNZXqW1EeGQ7GLjbhbZLgEYuRFxBuTFmZ3pMPQhyphenhyphenlbMvjgHyw/s320/IMGP8727.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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I have been testing the Speed Sleeve at the same time and have not found a multi-tool that would fit it satisfactorily until now. The Fix It Sticks fit perfectly into the Speed Sleeve and will not fall out like my former favorite tool, rest its soul.</div>
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The Speed Sleeve is my favorite "saddle bag" for a minimalist approach and the Fix It Sticks compliment that minimalist light-weight mentality perfectly.</div>
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Fix It Sticks will be available in April 2013. They offer a <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fixitsticks/fix-it-sticks-a-fantastically-unique-bicycle-multi">Kickstarter</a> program where buyers can get a discount for pre-ordering a set in order that the seller earns capital to build inventory.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKRh55bS2yPnMqxwoHd5d8E47OWbDiMWjgxyPhJjT2l3DmhUTOvi7fo9YoiXNhiNzSS-IWe7I26tqRZmBBIvf92K2MrApjd3TCEiww1O9Ey0YfEZsPY6pjhk0TeTnu_9eqX6z6S-8N6Q/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+8.04.37+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKRh55bS2yPnMqxwoHd5d8E47OWbDiMWjgxyPhJjT2l3DmhUTOvi7fo9YoiXNhiNzSS-IWe7I26tqRZmBBIvf92K2MrApjd3TCEiww1O9Ey0YfEZsPY6pjhk0TeTnu_9eqX6z6S-8N6Q/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+8.04.37+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Mine are prototype aluminum, but the production models are anodized orange. I probably would have opted for a torx bit for my disc rotors over the supplied Phillips bit. I also added my own magnetic 8mm Allen end to turn this into a 5-way tool, but am bound to lose this unintended accessory.<br />
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The Fix It Sticks are a very cool and functional tool that will see years of service on many rides.<br />
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<br />Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-1498689273965962582012-12-16T11:15:00.003-05:002012-12-23T17:07:41.313-05:00Ibex Giro Full Zip Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ibex Merino Wool Cycling Apparel</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2kG0TyFN_0ucuFExpy145LcA1UjL4Op_pNkWYSxfUJ8ip_XE8uHeAK6dnTfBzMcVWrD1LUIwu48HMu6j7SAok8JIqKOS_oXjA_tjQV_jETaB_tbdQI3d_DIvBRScP-8qMdL4jJh5Cg4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-14+at+7.33.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2kG0TyFN_0ucuFExpy145LcA1UjL4Op_pNkWYSxfUJ8ip_XE8uHeAK6dnTfBzMcVWrD1LUIwu48HMu6j7SAok8JIqKOS_oXjA_tjQV_jETaB_tbdQI3d_DIvBRScP-8qMdL4jJh5Cg4/s200/Screen+Shot+2012-10-14+at+7.33.54+PM.png" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wool is a traditional cycling fabric that was widely used until the advent of Lycra. The form fitting synthetic fabrics offered unlimited style and promises of functionally to fit every need. The spandex era began and the days of itchy wool were marked, but now wool is regaining its place with high-performance and legendary benefits all in one fabric. Enter Ibex's New Zealand Merino Wool.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>How</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ibex wool is harvested from Ibex sheep in New Zealand and provides the highest quality wool available, offering superior breathability, temperature regulation, moisture control, and anti-microbial properties. Unlike traditional wool, merino is finer, softer and non- itchy, giving you superior next-to-the skin comfort.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part of the magic of the merino wool fibers is it moves moisture from the skin more quickly than other fibers. Sweat leaves the skin as vapor and condense. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Synthetics transfer liquid, but wool is able to transfer the vapor as well as wick the liquid directly through its porous fibers. This keeps you drier and warmer in the cold, but in the heat has a cooling effect. It regulates temperature well. Wool fibers also contain thousands of air pockets which insulate against both heat and cold. These air pockets work even when wet giving wool the ability to insulate in any condition.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFRcjctmimYG67OapuRGrZjvvmyrnrjxK8F5tQW2NDl-d94M_YoDT0wEM7pqSqWtWmC-WVkpEWs8uepFJRSWvi4JLY0wU_WV0FbFMTswTOqrwWpjIRUNErqQkNSuQMcgKYzv-8Rm4p_Q/s1600/7203_4399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFRcjctmimYG67OapuRGrZjvvmyrnrjxK8F5tQW2NDl-d94M_YoDT0wEM7pqSqWtWmC-WVkpEWs8uepFJRSWvi4JLY0wU_WV0FbFMTswTOqrwWpjIRUNErqQkNSuQMcgKYzv-8Rm4p_Q/s320/7203_4399.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14px;"><span class="stag" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 22px;"><cufon alt="TECH " class="cufon cufon-canvas" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block !important; font-size: 1px !important; height: 22px; line-height: 1px !important; position: relative !important; text-indent: 0px !important; vertical-align: middle !important; width: 62px;"><cufontext style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block !important; height: 0px !important; overflow-x: hidden !important; overflow-y: hidden !important; text-indent: -10000in !important; width: 0px !important;"></cufontext></cufon><cufon alt="SPECS:" class="cufon cufon-canvas" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block !important; font-size: 1px !important; height: 22px; line-height: 1px !important; position: relative !important; text-indent: 0px !important; vertical-align: middle !important; width: 67px;"><canvas height="21" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 21px; left: -1px; position: relative !important; top: 1px; width: 86px;" width="86"></canvas><cufontext style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block !important; height: 0px !important; overflow-x: hidden !important; overflow-y: hidden !important; text-indent: -10000in !important; width: 0px !important;"></cufontext></cufon></span></span><br />
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<li><i>Form-fit in green, blue, gray & black</i></li>
<li><i>Full front zip with locking zipper pull </i></li>
<li><i>Rib collar & cuffs </i></li>
<li><i>Reflective logo center back </i></li>
<li><i>Three pocket back </i></li>
<li><i>Elastic hem </i></li>
<li><i>Machine washable</i></li>
<li><i>Mid-weight ponte knit </i></li>
<li><i>18.5 micron </i></li>
<li><i>100% Zque™ New Zealand Merino wool </i></li>
<li><i>240 g/m<sup style="box-sizing: border-box;">2</sup></i></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Feel</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This tight-knit wool fabric feels like a cotton/poly blend jersey, which is a nice change from the itchy fabric expected, thanks to the fine fibers; wearing it next to the skin is very comfortable. The raglan cut is specific for cycling, so the sleeves are long enough as is the back side when in a low cycling stance. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"><span id="goog_1521768167" style="color: #585858; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivbSShT3u_RzZTbef4sd1mBeTriOfV3Yjb3Yn8goAZ5P9Jz78I4IOBz8stT70UblS4zpO0KxUCxPwTAr-69AnrrX4dB27icPNv6kt5hz2K183u7jMxKBZEX9oKOs7DyM4JOYh9Xo6BpY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-10-15+at+12.22.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivbSShT3u_RzZTbef4sd1mBeTriOfV3Yjb3Yn8goAZ5P9Jz78I4IOBz8stT70UblS4zpO0KxUCxPwTAr-69AnrrX4dB27icPNv6kt5hz2K183u7jMxKBZEX9oKOs7DyM4JOYh9Xo6BpY/s320/Screen+Shot+2012-10-15+at+12.22.11+PM.png" width="317" /></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The small diameter of thread used for the base layer give the wool its soft texture. Cut from New Zealand's Ibex sheep, this wool is the highest quality available. </span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i>
<i> The Ibex Giro long sleeve jersey is a Base Layer 2 fabric for next-to-skin use.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i>
<i>Ibex offers a very wide range of clothing for year-round comfort.</i></span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif;">The temp regulating and moisture managing properties </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">of</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> Merino give you superior comfor</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">t.</span></span></i></h1>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ibex garments are assembled in the USA</span></i></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In Use</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On a cool morning with temps barely warming from the over-night lows this wool jersey kept me toasty. On the climb, a 7-mile south-facing gravel climb, the temps began to rise, but the wool kept me comfortable; unzipping the front was enough. At the top I waited ten minutes on friends as the wind blew, and the cooler temps that usually made me shiver felt refreshing. Even damp the Ibex jersey was keeping me warm. The painfully cold downhill I was expecting was enjoyably warm. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">n just one ride t</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">his wool, this simple fabric that has been around for ages, had outperformed all my technical garments.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OK, I was convinced, so I did the research that revealed the science above. Wool is amazing! Why would we use anything else? The fine fibers of merino wool are even better as they feel comfortable against the skin. This jersey transfers moisture better, regulates my body temps better, never stinks, and is breathable. It is now my go-to base layer for chilly outdoor activities.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also tried it as a second layer on top of my lycra base layer and noticed it worked better than a typical long sleeve jersey. Actually, to be more accurate, I did not notice it! I just felt comfortable as I watch my friends deal with over-heating on the climbs, and chills on the descents as they made adjustments to their layered clothing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In the Wash</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hand washed the jersey for the first few times, but in the interest of the article felt I needed to toss it in the machine. It did fine, not like my wool sweaters that are prone to stretching and shrinking.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Ibex Giro full zip long sleeve jersey, $155. A bargain at twice the price! This is an item that is at the forefront of your enjoyment of your favorite activity, time and time again. I am enjoying my Ibex jersey a lot.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Find more Ibex products at <a href="http://shop.ibex.com/Apparel/Mens-Ride">http://shop.ibex.com/Apparel/Mens-Ride</a> </span><br />
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Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-31532783950788250732012-10-27T17:20:00.001-04:002014-10-28T21:16:47.494-04:00THOMSON Goes Carbon With Bars<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>THOMSON MTB Carbon Bars</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuptCNboa1YQXuVd_c7Ub3TBK5YR1_10T1vNUWjGsbmIr22w85SGxBQYkoUyk_UqYnosdW8zs9MNZQTfK9ckc0g6sNJkt-3uJnEVy84d0BUtetnkUX2mZ5iXwqFhyWxfyh56VOIRQS9U/s1600/IMGP8524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibuptCNboa1YQXuVd_c7Ub3TBK5YR1_10T1vNUWjGsbmIr22w85SGxBQYkoUyk_UqYnosdW8zs9MNZQTfK9ckc0g6sNJkt-3uJnEVy84d0BUtetnkUX2mZ5iXwqFhyWxfyh56VOIRQS9U/s640/IMGP8524.JPG" height="228" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A whopping 730mm wide for a flat bar, Thomson offers exacting precision and versatility in their line of bars. Included is this flat bar, a riser bar, a road bar with flattened tops, and a CX bar.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>First up the flat bar:</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coming in at just 185 grams for the flat bar keeps everything light. 6 degrees of sweep is good middle ground that should be comfy for all riders. The bar can be run flip/flop for a difference of 5mm. As mounted the top is flat across from the stem. The bulge tapers up only. Flip it and you have a 5mm drop.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7JI2xxwInpVvgS8Mcv02hSaI-SnEvOrdqmS6uAONRMgg08g-t-VnpdNVFmM2yPl9nJvv93nDtfGGfvyLGqBnyilQnCxqcwmXsOBOAZ9l9S8XzJ0NJoo4VcDN0vLU_O3LX2MdZj_Ea6g/s1600/LfkpPdbfBGCabbD7dwVF3uUugQ64EMf2bcaHGDaf3rw.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7JI2xxwInpVvgS8Mcv02hSaI-SnEvOrdqmS6uAONRMgg08g-t-VnpdNVFmM2yPl9nJvv93nDtfGGfvyLGqBnyilQnCxqcwmXsOBOAZ9l9S8XzJ0NJoo4VcDN0vLU_O3LX2MdZj_Ea6g/s400/LfkpPdbfBGCabbD7dwVF3uUugQ64EMf2bcaHGDaf3rw.jpeg" height="153" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A nice touch is that the bar is exactly 31.8mm diameter under the clear coat. The clear coat compresses when clamped, so mated to a Thomson stem that is exactly 31.8mm you get a perfect fit and a reduction of stress to the bar as well as a tighter fit.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bar comes with a tiny tube of carbon application lube, that is a gritty gel to increase friction between the stem and the bar. This reduces the clamping force necessary to hold the bar. A torque wrench should be used to 4Nm when tightening the stem bolts to avoid over-clamping and crushing the carbon.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Thomson found that the sticky goo other bars have at the clamp area only cause the bar to slip easier, especially in the drop test.</i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.toray.com/technology/nano/images/nan_013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.toray.com/technology/nano/images/nan_013.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; font-size: xx-small; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>1 lb of nano fiber can stretch to the moon.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">"All our cloth is from Toray, it is 3 different strengths and uses cycling specific nano particles," reports Thomson. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Destructo-Matic:</b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along with many popular brands of carbon bars, the Thomson bars were tested until failure. With heavy weights attached to the ends of the bar, the system was dropped from one foot, two for some test, to simulate more downward force than the human arms could produce. It is interesting that carbon breaks under pressure or compression, not tension, so the breaks were all under the bar (at the compression point), while the tops were intact (tension). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All the destructive test on the Thomson bars showed that even when the bars broke they stayed intact enough to give the rider time to stop, and maybe even ride back home, but like the engineer said, the force it takes to break the bar like this would shatter the human body, so the bars would be the least concern.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Ride:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Going from a 680 width carbon bar to a full 730 width is wonderful. The handling is superb, cornering more confident and the extra length seems to further isolate the hands from vibration. Even powerful sprints were easy with the bar - no flex when pulling up hard. Yet, riders would still grab the bar at the very ends at times, so how wide do they want it, how wide is too wide? Time will tell, but the weak concern of a wide bar not fitting through trees has not been an issue on the test rides; the increase in handling is much greater and a joy to ride.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">730mm may be wide for some riders, but the Thomson carbon bars are meant to be cut, and the ends have hash markings every 5mm as cutting guides. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Small bar-ends can be accommodated, within reason, as the ends are beefed up a little to handle the clamping force. Care should always be taken when clamping on carbon though, as not all clamps are as precise as the Thomson stems and could pinch or crack the bar.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>A nice part of the ascetics is the marbled black finish on the bar. With only the small Thomson graphic on the drive side the bar gives off a stealthy black glow that just speaks of its coolness.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Update</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: After many more miles of riding the bars are still the favorite of all time. The extra width means there is ample room between the stem and the accessories to get aero with your hands with room to spare. This is handy for fast stretches of pavement or gravel, and is even offers a good alternative hand position for long climbs.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This bar will not be cut down, but for those needing a more narrow front end you will still get a great bar and at even lighter weight.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10-28-2014 update: 2 years later: Same bars, still working perfect. I have over 10,000 off-road miles on these and no complaint from rider or bar.</span></div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-54735490043694838042012-09-23T16:24:00.002-04:002012-10-01T17:54:47.607-04:00Interbike 2012 VideosInterbike Videos 2012.<br />
At Interbike I walked around with a camera and had manufacturers give their spill about the product. I will be testing and reviewing some of these products in time. <br />
I did about 6GB of filming, most vids are about 3 mins long, so I will be posting them as they are uploaded to Youtube.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARkWJbVZapk&feature=plcp">Me riding an electric MTB</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoGyc4InRUk&feature=plcp">HERE</a><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7rrY8T6-Dintr4jE42f21kefvoDn5PNM91-mCSm7fO8b-K598MXsa6YOoYnFbxYSIBfRGHL744KdIa1RSqyyZUJZZaAbc2qNKth3u5QlNKBNTzZJ9KQSp351490tBup9hKV5b6aJBlQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-23+at+4.26.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7rrY8T6-Dintr4jE42f21kefvoDn5PNM91-mCSm7fO8b-K598MXsa6YOoYnFbxYSIBfRGHL744KdIa1RSqyyZUJZZaAbc2qNKth3u5QlNKBNTzZJ9KQSp351490tBup9hKV5b6aJBlQ/s400/Screen+Shot+2012-09-23+at+4.26.39+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
This 2nd one is me going down a very techy section, then back up. On a race bike I rode down easily, but did not even make it to the first bump (just after shadow) before becoming pedestrian.<br />
<br />
<b>KMC Chains</b> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq7x4L92Xpc&feature=plcp">9,10 & 11 speed</a> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TY36vSDPfhg&feature=plcp">BMX Rasta, kool Knight, K710SL, K810SL</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09qYvGQ856s&feature=plcp"> BMX, Cruisers, Single Speed</a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<h1 id="watch-headline-title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold; height: 1.1363em; line-height: 1.1363em; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; max-height: 1.1363em; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></span></h1>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liuqo6wH8w8&feature=plcp"><b>Cygolite</b></a> 12,000 Lumen cycling light prototype - water-cooled.<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUeKFTnGM1g&feature=plcp">Wojtek did the same product too.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWrPRxUaYy8&feature=plcp"><b>Sram 1x11 drivetrain</b></a><br />
I did a quick video on the 11 speed system bc the Sram guy didn't want to do it. It has a single front chainring with no chain guide, but the chainring has special alternating wide and narrow teeth to match the chain's narrow and wide plates. The rear cass is a 10-42 11 speed that gives a wide range of gears making up for the loss of a double up front. Riding it there is no chain slap and over rough rocks the chain did not drop at all. I rode it during the dirt demo on Tuesday, and took it off-course to find the good trails. I need one now.<br />
Hopefully I will have a system to test fully soon.<br />
<br />
Cool new products from <b>THOMON</b> -<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgW8MpUwEZM&feature=plcp">Dropper Post</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziDAWmvxHBk&feature=plcp">Carbon CX bars, Road bars and MTB bars.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGtnwAB6JA4&feature=plcp"><b>NOW</b> Energy Bars were very tasty </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxYaJ-wp6Qc&feature=plcp"><b>HALO</b> Headband with built in "rain/sweat gutter"</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74InfFhq3wc&feature=plcp">Efficient Tools E-Z Lift</a><br />
Very cool bike work stand<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDj7cOjL8bE&feature=plcp"><b>Boreas</b> Backpack</a><br />
I am to test this unit soon for bike packing<br />
<br />
<b>Tretta</b> 2WD Bicycle<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnaYoRx8uTU&feature=plcp">MTB</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2JNfGDHk8g&feature=plcp">ROAD</a><br />
<br />
X Fusion <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UguHLnncTGY&feature=plcp">Micro-lite shock</a><br />
<br />
2013 Scott Genius <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2ZJIzDkxSs&feature=plcp">650b full sus bikes</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm1DBlBGnE4&feature=plcp">Cardo Systems Blue Tooth two-way communication</a><br />
I have this unit to test. It is a helmet mount stereo walkie-talkie on steroids. Blue tooth works with your phone as well, and works with your music. Talk to your riding buddy up to 1/3 mile away, and if you get a call, just say, hello, and the com turns to a hands-free phone, when done with call, say, goodbye, and your back to talking to your friend. You can have 3 persons on the system.<br />
<br />
Formula<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-CQwQHyqp8&feature=plcp">Thirty Three Light-weight race fork 26'er</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-HIgYjT0k4&feature=plcp">RO Brake System</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPIWGRedSrw&feature=plcp">R1 Racing Brake System</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V80dvcLQqGk&feature=plcp">T1 Brake System</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5i5cxWOFCg&feature=plcp">R1 Brakes (quick release)</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGFSoWEFia8&feature=plcp">Speed Sleev saddle bag</a> - the ultimate pan for the minimalist.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlmNtltPE6w&feature=plcp">Power2Max</a> crank based power meter<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liuqo6wH8w8&feature=plcp">Cantitoe Generator front hub</a>. Generates 6 volts at the hub to power your gadgets<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWrPRxUaYy8&feature=plcp">SRAM 11 Speed drivetrain</a><br />
<br />
<br />Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-29947767520119837132012-09-16T13:45:00.003-04:002012-10-04T12:24:23.378-04:00Spenco Gloves<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<div class="p1" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280435" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b>MTB Gloves: Heat Wave 2.0, Trail Pro, Trail Warrior.</b></span></div>
<div class="p2" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280146" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Patented Shock-Tek™ palm pad system protects the median nerve to prevent numbness and discomfort.</span></div>
<div class="p2" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280146" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p2" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280146" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://shop.spencocycling.com/">Enjoy a 20% discount using discount coupon code "mtbandy"</a></span></div>
<div class="p2" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280146" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p2" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280146" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Andy Johnston, multi-time mountain bike national champion, a<span id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280159">fter having to use “winged” style grips due to numbing hands, decided to test the benefits of the Spenco line of gloves. The key feature is palm padding near the wrist to reduce pressure on the Carpel Tunnel Nerves.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Many cyclists prefer gloves with no padding at all in the palm, so may be dissuaded, but several Spenco gloves are not padded across the entire palm, just on the heel of the hand, while others have full palm padding or a double layer of leather giving riders a choice.</span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVEboKzvUqDnwcRoWt62OVy9TjzA0hn0WAmUfz1Of4uDFtJ5kNk6tM3lckqgXRmhYBa-TtiX40NZ5hWTwyBLzPi2Uu5P0h8S2aCQwhQelZxlz9sOzs-BWRdNqB4p1Jt_TsyHt8qlDh6U/s1600/ct_pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVEboKzvUqDnwcRoWt62OVy9TjzA0hn0WAmUfz1Of4uDFtJ5kNk6tM3lckqgXRmhYBa-TtiX40NZ5hWTwyBLzPi2Uu5P0h8S2aCQwhQelZxlz9sOzs-BWRdNqB4p1Jt_TsyHt8qlDh6U/s320/ct_pic.jpg" width="274" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The Median Nerve runs down the arm and across the wrist just between the meaty parts of the palm. It is the pressure against the carpal tunnel nerve that can cause pain or numbness in the hand or fingers. Dr. A. Robert Spitzer, a neurologist, developed this patented design. With Spenco gloves a relief zone is created between the padding to greatly reduce pressure and reduce road shock. Pressure is diverted away form the sensitive areas of the hand.</span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3M3V6fZJyzMD3rKH4M6YLKqY9CbOeNW7Q0LYX8nmCcT7NudJul2k69h05S3cSnFqzRFRHH0AXnjOHnSYqbvwUNvY-_Hu3FcVFia03Mv5mhDzaXRRDwfmNJEmQS0sZunWq5dhR2xAyIAE/s1600/IMGP8506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3M3V6fZJyzMD3rKH4M6YLKqY9CbOeNW7Q0LYX8nmCcT7NudJul2k69h05S3cSnFqzRFRHH0AXnjOHnSYqbvwUNvY-_Hu3FcVFia03Mv5mhDzaXRRDwfmNJEmQS0sZunWq5dhR2xAyIAE/s320/IMGP8506.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After 6 months of off-road use the padding is flattened a little, but the gloves are in great shape.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">This test was done over a 6-month period, and became the test riders’ favorite gloves. The Spencon gloves held up well and had quality construction. Numbness in the hand and fingers was gone, as was the need for heavy, comfy grips. The padding near the wrist was not noticeable and the glove still gave a positive feel when on the bar. The gloves are on the level of a medical device, but eventually the edges of the padding will flatten out a little, so should be replaced even before the rest of the glove wears out to get the full medical benefit. After 6 months the gloves are still working well.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">There is a variety of models available in both short-finger and long-finger styles:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<div class="p4" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280249" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyM9BvXrOffSN-iwYsQizw7TQrY4Syh5X_dMGhnGwn-V7FJK5wIsx_w7waeTy-295NsdyFDlZK9Am8jDMoouhpPbAXv9jLg_GQ1JJRvicVlUcZecjC8T36cCeiUcZs1oyvrXyHuVWt9oU/s1600/trail-warrior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyM9BvXrOffSN-iwYsQizw7TQrY4Syh5X_dMGhnGwn-V7FJK5wIsx_w7waeTy-295NsdyFDlZK9Am8jDMoouhpPbAXv9jLg_GQ1JJRvicVlUcZecjC8T36cCeiUcZs1oyvrXyHuVWt9oU/s1600/trail-warrior.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>The Trail Warrior, with its Japanese Anime inspiration, is a great all-around 3-season glove. Minimal palm padding, and a comfort fit.</i></div>
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<div class="p5" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280254" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Aside from the Median Nerve padding it has only a double layer of leather around the palm. The under side material is a perforated synthetic leather that keeps the hands cool. The graphics do little more than give it it's unique look</span>.</span></div>
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<ul class="ul1" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280461" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Anatomically pre-curved for comfort & fit</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Patented Shock-Tek™ palm pad system protects the median nerve to prevent numbness and discomfort</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Durable nylon Spandura top with Air Mesh for ventilation</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Ventilated Clarino leather palm</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Reinforced thumb, index finger and palm</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Soft Liteprene cuff with adjustable strap closure</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Lycra finger side panels for form fitting</span></li>
<li class="li1" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280397" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Silicone grip on finger tips for lever control</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3QdUkJVaRRLsIn33OVDJMoTkxDYlXGov2O3I906Mj0105um5efIo0hjL3PNKjsVTeNrzB6tcULzqFTnYAF7PaPY0zUYOrmidmgBgRHYiV4Prm7mK12q0cEyVPriUkl0bVPHd9SD7DHw/s1600/trail-pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3QdUkJVaRRLsIn33OVDJMoTkxDYlXGov2O3I906Mj0105um5efIo0hjL3PNKjsVTeNrzB6tcULzqFTnYAF7PaPY0zUYOrmidmgBgRHYiV4Prm7mK12q0cEyVPriUkl0bVPHd9SD7DHw/s1600/trail-pro.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<div class="p4" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><i>Trail Pro has a neopreme finger top with durable synthetic leather palm. A directed terry cloth on the thumb almost is perfect for wiping out the sweat, but is interrupted by a blue stripe which can cause discomfort on the face.</i></span></div>
<div class="p5" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280287" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Molded neoprene padding across knuckles protects your mitts from even the most intrusive branches.</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Patented Shock-Tek® palm padding channel keeps the pounding off the median nerve.</span></li>
<li class="li1" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280411" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Reinforced 2nd layer across palm will keep things together for a long time.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><i>The Heat Wave 2.0 was the test riders favorite glove for summer riding. Features include a very breathable fabric over the fingers and hand, light padding on the palm, a full terry cloth thumb and, of course, Spenco's upper palm padding to relieve the Median Nerve.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKUJs9apYzhv-3q0WS3Rnv3_N36E18cNYO7FGDV9lYPZ6DHQfoqm4oWbaTWVf73-sUCp0BtbNhHbOMFnWdy6bWgO5rxh1D15Js-yJ57rZl88ndGWAeTubVirMDr3rA4oAr4euWtFGP4s/s1600/heat-wave-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><i><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKUJs9apYzhv-3q0WS3Rnv3_N36E18cNYO7FGDV9lYPZ6DHQfoqm4oWbaTWVf73-sUCp0BtbNhHbOMFnWdy6bWgO5rxh1D15Js-yJ57rZl88ndGWAeTubVirMDr3rA4oAr4euWtFGP4s/s1600/heat-wave-2.jpg" /></i></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><i>The palm is made of the same perforated fabric as the Trail Warrior, but has a full double layer of leather on the palm area with a little bit of padding just before the fingers split off.</i></span></div>
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<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Anatomically pre-curved for comfort & fit</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Patented palm pad system protects the median nerve</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Designed for superior ventilation</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Terry wipe for comfort, with molded Velcro closure for fit</span></li>
<li class="li1" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Reinforced second layer on palm and thumb crotch</span></li>
<li class="li1" id="yui_3_2_0_23_1349220328280425" style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"> Available in S, M, L, XL, 2XL</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqUTiCjr3pY6OARUYiMuOV9p88Idl09hzWoZMYeYOqG-NqR4xf6OErJfLC58d5D_NNZBzT1wYhtNWuxnz_DXoB7Kyicof1sL74FNPlKFZTzrt14L9IUPQxPKspiAop2en-bY7ljElDCQ/s1600/IMGP8511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqUTiCjr3pY6OARUYiMuOV9p88Idl09hzWoZMYeYOqG-NqR4xf6OErJfLC58d5D_NNZBzT1wYhtNWuxnz_DXoB7Kyicof1sL74FNPlKFZTzrt14L9IUPQxPKspiAop2en-bY7ljElDCQ/s400/IMGP8511.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heat Wave 2.0</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzJZ2_lUWX7RBOls1_orGiISI_Eu4L8xPHDuYbspPeT2JTC7od3k8C6Sg6so0xsYmG95q7YQ1CHnxlNtGJQjTkG1EVAoCoNcWPi25bq9spVk8TFsJpF16K5o9vlfaAwe4KicM70xDXGk/s1600/IMGP8512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzJZ2_lUWX7RBOls1_orGiISI_Eu4L8xPHDuYbspPeT2JTC7od3k8C6Sg6so0xsYmG95q7YQ1CHnxlNtGJQjTkG1EVAoCoNcWPi25bq9spVk8TFsJpF16K5o9vlfaAwe4KicM70xDXGk/s400/IMGP8512.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail Warrior</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolVBgGg4tD9pvGOatXDm3jLy2sPzAtI0eEfhZV_Rj7XXXxFnPcQlrA0JeVw8L6pYF6BuG4W2W4CDtiKtB90LWb1ooow_emOTUT0W0r8C-AcDT_9TzfsZszfMlS4W-dQ_M_d0BB8BOvZ0/s1600/IMGP8513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolVBgGg4tD9pvGOatXDm3jLy2sPzAtI0eEfhZV_Rj7XXXxFnPcQlrA0JeVw8L6pYF6BuG4W2W4CDtiKtB90LWb1ooow_emOTUT0W0r8C-AcDT_9TzfsZszfMlS4W-dQ_M_d0BB8BOvZ0/s400/IMGP8513.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail Pro</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIM1tyKW-xoB5Qiiirx_fQck3SzWQgVBFG-fm2NY0FphsQn1sDhG61vK4m1bzXkQc-bP6drLDGQ7Bj7zpbJ2v946p3-EfrvPGY8SlJzp_urssqvNttx4KZLiwhf1Uq2MKXx1v4mWmskc/s1600/IMGP8514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIM1tyKW-xoB5Qiiirx_fQck3SzWQgVBFG-fm2NY0FphsQn1sDhG61vK4m1bzXkQc-bP6drLDGQ7Bj7zpbJ2v946p3-EfrvPGY8SlJzp_urssqvNttx4KZLiwhf1Uq2MKXx1v4mWmskc/s320/IMGP8514.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left hand of Trail pro. The terry cloth is bisected by the blue styling fabric, but riders would prefer a full terry cloth for practical purposes. Anatomically pre-curved and extra padding helps both with riding on the hoods or with twist shifters.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObLKHC98yZqmQ4nsku6ewayJocGY-oG_yJxEVC9OiDGhm5CLsLiPgZz5Rf2J9Gt0VCAL22bC8dDZzpIKE3XfKPaoB23utfM7OVRpRmVc9zj_Prnr7ArW131wOKOkal2CDrEMmXTLKrvw/s1600/IMGP8515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObLKHC98yZqmQ4nsku6ewayJocGY-oG_yJxEVC9OiDGhm5CLsLiPgZz5Rf2J9Gt0VCAL22bC8dDZzpIKE3XfKPaoB23utfM7OVRpRmVc9zj_Prnr7ArW131wOKOkal2CDrEMmXTLKrvw/s320/IMGP8515.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Trail Warrior has unique graphics, but is a comfortable glove for cool to hot weather riding. This is an all-day glove. No terry cloth, but the soft fabric over the thumb is comfortable on the face.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVsodyrDD3WF6UF_B4U4gsDWME4WW28yarII2cudRac6EEOL6A4UX0GNT_cYVdbx0n50YzRObONPcDYJzuBIeOcNiekLs3tFE8eLnZYTeJPaJ7gMB3CU1itG605wtY2VEIcG-nurAZjc/s1600/IMGP8516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVsodyrDD3WF6UF_B4U4gsDWME4WW28yarII2cudRac6EEOL6A4UX0GNT_cYVdbx0n50YzRObONPcDYJzuBIeOcNiekLs3tFE8eLnZYTeJPaJ7gMB3CU1itG605wtY2VEIcG-nurAZjc/s320/IMGP8516.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Heat Wave 2.0 glove is the perfect ultra distance glove with it's full terry cloth thumb, well vented upper and Median Nerve padding on a perforated synthetic leather palm.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">The IronMan was the only short-finger glove tested. The padding in the palm was more noticeable than with the long-ringer gloves and for riders used to no padding this was noticeable, but not uncomfortable. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">All gloves were size Large.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">In conclusion, the Heat Wave 2.0 was the clear favorite of riders. It reflects the influence of the racing community with it's fully terry cloth thumb, mesh fabric back for cooling, perforated synthetic leather palm and 5-pad Shock-Tek padding. All in a minimalist glove that gets the job done.</span></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320767135161716867.post-27834910371330968362012-07-30T19:23:00.002-04:002014-03-19T14:38:12.221-04:00SteriPen Water Treatment<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Arial;"><i> “Over-all, I love it for its compact, light-weight attributes, ease of use and neat-o factor. I use the SteriPen while out in the backwoods for extended periods of time. Mostly I am riding a mountain bike for all-day rides so I do not have to carry all my water, or will use it on bike packing/camping trips as a water source”.</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5GuusjVicVE8SBv4UH6lW8P-TJD967AjNADMqHMrYNGfQVSlUwDf-DgdQYfZWLW-siZ5qAAWP1hyF9d7BGHtyLaPoMBT_-Y57ZYfEHe_0VEDNic_Xmg_PDI9X9iW_WIEFt5OFOekH7g/s1600/41uJzDs7gmL._AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5GuusjVicVE8SBv4UH6lW8P-TJD967AjNADMqHMrYNGfQVSlUwDf-DgdQYfZWLW-siZ5qAAWP1hyF9d7BGHtyLaPoMBT_-Y57ZYfEHe_0VEDNic_Xmg_PDI9X9iW_WIEFt5OFOekH7g/s1600/41uJzDs7gmL._AA300_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Water purifiers come in all forms, shapes and sizes. Most are based on filtering out contaminates in order to deliver pure clean water. The SteriPen takes a different approach with it’s UV light technology. The SteriPen does not filter the water, rather it wreaks havoc on the living organisms in the water so they can not do harm in your gut. The user can safely drink the treated water without fear of illness.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Water can be the heaviest item in the pack, but a filter, or this SteriPen, leaves more room for other gear, or just lightens up the pack. With a new set of batteries it is good for up to 100 treatments, and unlike mechanical filters the SteriPen is not damaged by freezing temperatures, or clogged from repeated use.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjUZlyHaMPdtyu9XOknR693XBwUdI16a3tPSkT7xBcvYV2nQgdvGPc9Pg5YhGQp8bWJMdszEF1HIn-GKUI9KtJdNLVehYbs_t-Eju9FeBSC5iFwTQYjuVH9xJHmnjCcIe0yaCeyKdx3w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-04-25+at+11.26.17+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjUZlyHaMPdtyu9XOknR693XBwUdI16a3tPSkT7xBcvYV2nQgdvGPc9Pg5YhGQp8bWJMdszEF1HIn-GKUI9KtJdNLVehYbs_t-Eju9FeBSC5iFwTQYjuVH9xJHmnjCcIe0yaCeyKdx3w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-04-25+at+11.26.17+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(UV light (and visible light) seen in a glass of water)</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">It is simple to use, one click for a liter, 2 for a half liter. Insert the UV light stick and stir until the light turns off. When done the SteriPen stores neatly back into its case and into your pack. All the user needs is a source of water. The UV light does not kill the organisms, but rather disrupt their DNA and prevents them from reproducing in your intestine. A sterile bug is harmless they say. It will eliminate as much or more hazards than a mechanical filter.</span></span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #454545;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">Ultraviolet (UV-C) light rays safely sterilize clear water by destroying 99.99% of protozoa (including Giardia and Cryptosporidia ), bacteria and even - viruses.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTb5XgqykE0ghpTqzvp8weUy7iKKIIdy28hmbQBBBEipUiX1w1-5aIaWXAp38WOPkRLdcE6SflRjRjidnvO2bSC9exGOvXBR1XUoQ7Ut6am3MnbDLKDMMVlVHa5WyUabWp1lQ9S-6QcAw/s1600/1flashlight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTb5XgqykE0ghpTqzvp8weUy7iKKIIdy28hmbQBBBEipUiX1w1-5aIaWXAp38WOPkRLdcE6SflRjRjidnvO2bSC9exGOvXBR1XUoQ7Ut6am3MnbDLKDMMVlVHa5WyUabWp1lQ9S-6QcAw/s1600/1flashlight.jpg" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Arial;">There is a LED that flashes to indicate unit is ready, but can also be utilized as a flashlight. The test unit did not function like that, however the flashing LED seems to be bright enough to get you around a dark camp site if it did work. [update: now my flashlight mode works and it is bright enough, but is not powerful by any means]</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Arial;">It is key to understand that the harmful UV light will not penetrate a plastic or glass container, and even will not penetrate the surface of the water, only the visible light will (visible light is just to show that the invisible UV light is on). Since the UV light does not penetrate the water surface, care should be taken that no droplets of water above go untreated. Stir the water enough that everything in the container is treated. Care should also be taken that the drinking mouthpiece is not contaminated with untreated water.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">This unit is electronic, and like all electronics is prone to failure, but no issues were reported even while taking it mountain biking over many months.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Though, in case of nuclear attacks, an EMP could damage all computer chips, so carry a water filter if you’re looking to be Mr Armageddon.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 10px;"><b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">Weight:</span></b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;"> 103g/3.6 oz. with batteries</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">Size:</span></b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;"> 6.1in. x 1.5in. x 1.0in.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">Battery:</span></b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;"> Uses two CR123 batteries (included)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">Battery life:</span></b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;"> Disposable – 100 1/2L treatments; Rechargeable -- 40-50 1/2L treatment</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;">UV Lamp Life:</span></b><span style="color: #535353; font-family: Verdana;"> 8,000 treatments </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">One downfall of the item is that replacing the batteries can get expensive if your not using rechargeable. I just dropped $15 on a pair of Duracell batteries. I should get up to 100 0.5 Liter treatments out of that.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Note that when using batteries get the 900Ma, not the 600's which do not work very long. Any name brand should be fine.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I have read other reviews since and noticed some report that the battery runs dead while inside the unit - even not being used, so I keep a piece of heavy paper between the battery and the contact. I used to just run the battery upside down, but would forget that I did that between trips, so hoping I notice the paper if I should forget again.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">UPDATE:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Oct 28, 2012.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'm still using the SteriPen and very happy with it. I just got back from an overnighter bike trip in NW Georgia. It is dry and most of the streams are either dried up or near stagnant. I had to use a barely flowing stream twice, and a river once. Typically I avoid rivers in favor of mountain streams since rivers could contain run-off from homes or factories that contain pollutants not filtered out or affected by the SteriPen.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In the middle of the route was a high mountain spring running generously so I filled up there and enjoyed mountain clean water.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The SteriPen continues to be easy to use and is a must have for my riding, even on day trips.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As mentioned above, the UV light does not penetrate the water surface, so droplets above the surface could go untreated. I simply fill the bottle enough and when treating the water dip the SteriPen inside the bottle enough that the water over-flows, thus negating any chance of untreated droplets.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I keep SteriPen strapped to my back pack strap where it is easy to access. I'm still on the original batteries, though I carry spares with me. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On the downside (updated March, 2014), this uses disposable batteries, which become a pain after a while. The batteries are 3 volt, but quality new ones register at about 3.6 volts. If the battery charge drops below 3.2 volts the Steri Pen will not function. Beware of internet batteries out of the package sold as new, 3 volts is not a new battery.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you want a Steri Pen get one with a rechargeable battery through usb so you can leave each time with a full charge, and if needed just use an external charger on extended trips away from electricity.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The CR123 batteries used are not available as rechargeable from name-brand battery makers.</span></div>
Big Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10656935782421935923noreply@blogger.com0