I went for Stans when I went tubeless, the Flow and now Flow EX are wide enough to increase grip and bomb proof (I’m a fat knacker). I run Hans Dampfs on them, they look mahoosive on the 23mm rims but the grip is as much as I need.

Only difference I’ve noticed is the EX are a bit harder to get the tyre on but repay you with instant inflation with a track pump. Just one layer of yellow tape – just pay attention to how you poke the valve through; I always use a small “washer” made with old rim tape – it’s a bit softer than the valve seat and the tape, just guarantees a seal first time.

I’ve used Superstar but Hope Pro Evo2 are way better. No real experience with other hubs, both mbikes now on Hope/Stans Flow EX now.

Chris

Well, I apologise for the rest of the “collective” ignoring you in the first instance.

So, the brakes, as far as I know the IS standard uses the same bolts etc as every other. I can only wonder if the frame IS tabs are damaged in some way. Have you tried gently offering up the bolts without the adapter, just to see?

C

I got the same cranks, the 24t inner is intended for a 29″ set up I think. I found the gears too low on a 26″ and swapped up to a 26t chainring.

It was quite amazeballs really as I’m a complete porker – boy did I feel fit!

Chris

There are designated bridleways which all cyclists adhere to religiously. Even CX riders….

c

I ride on the Chevin a lot and most people are OK as long as you give them a friendly tinkle of your bicycle bell and slow down when passing. There are the odd grumpy old bstards who think you are invading their privacy but I always smile and engage them in pointless conversation to annoy them even further. Dogs seem to deliberately walk in front of bicycles; I think it’s Darwinism but can’t guarantee it.

So, it was probably my fault you got the abuse, my apologies.

Chris

It’s all about manners isn’t it? Sadly, generally lacking these days, doesn’t matter what bike you ride; if someone says hello or something it’s generally polite to respond in kind.

Ignorance is bliss, the ignorant are dicks.

Chris

There you go, justification for stopping overtaking of pelotons.

Nice.

Wrong.

Most vehicle drivers are “challenged” by wider groups of cyclists. Science does not equal behaviour.

Another example of road riders blocking the carriageway riding two (or more) abreast. When will these people realise they aren’t in the TdF?

You know, manners these days are sadly lacking.

I guess the skills needed to move to a single line have been lost since I was a kid.

Don’t lose your rag when drivers get annoyed, you’re the ones slowing them down whether you are blocking an uplift or any other road user.

This is the reason I ride off-road; rude people on road bikes.

Chris

PS. Feel free to flame; you ain’t changing my mind.

I use the 2.35 HD Pacestars front and back. I find them ideal and think they are great. Got them on both my bikes; I’ve tried loads of different tyres over the years and these are the best for me.

I should add I run them on Flows, can’t comment on their use on narrower rims.

C

Just get a pair of PaceStar HD’s – problem solved.

I have broken my collar bones three times; the doc said if I did it again I could cut the brachial nerve and end up with a dead arm.

That’s why I very rarely jump. I’d love to be rad but I’m just sad.

Chris.

I was up there last week and did Glentress and Dalbeattie. I’ve also ridden Mabie and Kirroughtree.

I thought Glentress was OK, it does get rattled on about and, whilst it was dead there mid-week, I can imagine it gets rammed at the weekend. Being shouted at by Strava-warriors could be a risk!

I think Kirroughtree is better, greater variety in terms of terrain and a new visitor centre. Dalbeattie is rocky and would put some people off but that’s my kindof thing. Mabie is quite short but has a great downhill section. Good flow too.

It’s worth noting its a two hour drive between Dalbeattie and GT/Inners. After last week I’d either stay in one area or the other.

Chris

HDs by far the best tyre I have ever used – I use the PaceStar version, roll fine, grip like one-oh and very progressive in the turns.

If you don’t want yours I’ll have them.

C 🙂

LA LA LA LA

Gorsebank +1

That was the worst pile of rubbish they have ever done. I sense budget restrictions.

Should be a good opportunity to rattle your teeth out.

Homebaked definitely the best bit of Gisburn!

There will be water in the dips there and the top boardwalk is terrifiying when frozen; are there any plans to chicken wire it?

C

Thanks for all the replies!

Yep it’s a tough one; we need £3400…..

Chris

Does the braze-on take a cable tie?

After that try “brake cable clip”…..

C

Got a 62cm bonce, Poc Trabec has great fit and would go out to 63 np.

Climbing, manuals, bunny hopping and jumping.

As such, I’m quite good at not falling off!

I’ve converted my AM to 2×10. I did buy a bespoke 2×10 chainset and new front mech but everything else was dead easy, no need for any special Canyon bits.

I’m on 30t at the front because I’m a lard-arsed old git.

Another vote for bar / fork allignment. I’ve broken my collarbones four times now so both arms extend to a different extent than the OEM. Even when I have the bars straight I think my bars aren’t!

Chris

Thanks. Of course, I actually meant the non drive side but thanks for not pointing that out!

Chris

And the moral of this story?

“You get what you pay for”….

😉

I got some Northwaves I no longer use (they were a bit too big for me. Size 47; good nick £40 (if anyone is interested)…

Chris

Can you fit these converters to a Shimano HT2 b/b?

C

Reverb. Just works.

I’m 6’1″ with 31″ inside leg and running a NerveAM in L. It’s a perfect fit for me. I have the Reverb set with only 2cm of the tube showing. So a taller person could get away with a L.

I wouldn’t bother with their size calculator it told me I needed as XS!!!

At your size I’d go XL if possible due to your long legs. If you’re anywhere near me you’re welcome to have a sit on mine. Although the Spectral (vvvvv nice, want one) does look like the top tube is lower than the “old” NerveAM.

Chris

All water companies dose with orthophosphoric acid to stop lead entrainment, you will be fine. Until you need the environment to stop being eutrophic due to all the phosphate dosed into water supply…. swings and roundabouts….

Strip it down first, then you can confirm the bearings are shot.

Then try the Cane Creek headset finder: http://www.canecreek.com/headset-fit-finder

C

Don’t forget Ed Oxley is near you @greatrock

Chris

Have a look at the Canyon Spectral 29. I’m a believer so take my hint with a pinch of salt but the spec is very good for the price.

C

As you say, unless it’s sub zero for a while, I’d expect it to ride as well as any time of year.

Just a quick question, all these XTR failures – did any of you service them? Only i do mine every six months and so far (three years) not a problem.

Maybe I’m lucky.

C

So, my VanRC arrived home; via Royal Mail today……..maybe the spring didn’t give away the fact it’s got compressed nitrogen in it?

*relieved*

Chris

Flipping Heck….

I posted my VanRC to Loco and it arrived fine. I was asked what the contents were at the Post Office and I said “shock absorber” how the lady behind the counter would know whether it was pressurised or not is a moot point I guess. But they did deliver it; sounds like I was lucky.

I’m guessing Loco won’t be using RM to return it…

Chris

Brilliant! That storm in the Atlantic looks “interesting” – still no certainty on where it will hit either…..

C