Using a 34t will generate lots of macho comments on here!
However, I run one and found the lower ratio really useful – infact I don't think Ive used the front granny ring since running a 34t rear.

Could it be play in the hub bearings?
I don't have aksiums but on all my Mavic wheels you can adjust bearing play with the pin tooth tool supplied with the wheels.

I have an S-works Epic (alumin.) and an S-works carbon hardtail – both have the same forks, wheels, and similar geometry
In my experiance the hardtail is slightly quicker over a typical xc course. It feels much faster to ride, but in reality there is probably not much real time advantage – stating the obvious but quicker on the climbs while losing out on descents and rooty/sketchy pedally bits.
For longer rides/races the full suspension probably has the edge.

Oops! Sent it twice.

I've never ridden a 29er and don't particularly lust after one, but we only ride 26" wheels because the 'repack boys' who allegedly invented the mtb converted old American 'clunkers' which used 26" wheels.

James – Your original question related to the merits of compact verses triple so all these macho threads are of little benefit!

The compact and triple have a similar range of gears and are both great for those steep climbs we don't have in GB.
For fast road work I find the 34/50 of the compact too big a jump for fliud changes without compensating by changing up/down at the rear.
Personally I prefer the triple as I can ride it just like a 39/53 double which I find easier to maintain a more constant cadence between front ring changes. The inner ring can be kept in reserve for the really steep bits.

Hope this may be of some help.

Don't know about longevity but they both weigh exactly the same.
105 is bright finish, Ultegra is nickel finish.
TBH the 105 is probably better value for money.

Coffeeking – I'm out now! Youre right, 60g off rotating weight is worth having.
Cheers

Coffeeking – Oops! Sorry, should read more carefully.

Although, unless you want fancy coloured ano nips, brass ones are much stronger, won't corrode and add hardly any weight.

God! Those nips are expensive. I've just bought some from my lbs for 3p each.

I'm going to Manchester Velodrome next week. Should I take my full suspension bike or go the the full hog and take my rigid ss fixed wheel track bike with no brakes.

Serious suggestions only, please! 8)

overtaking full bouncers on SS is good sport and mucho fun ime
Quite sad really. 🙁

Rigid SS for Coed-y-Brenin! – Yeah right!

Niche groups are so cool. 😀

Might be worth a look at the Giant TCX1 – Light compact style frame with sharp geometry

I think more manufacturers now use the centre to centre measurement.

P.S.
Is your back is getting better. Hope to see you riding again soon.

01633615815

Might be worth looking at a Giant TCX 1 – retails at around £1000.
I've had one for about 6 months, ridden it both on and off road, and will be racing it this winter.
Pleased with it so far – particularly the frame which is light [1420g]and has sharp geometry.

Might be worth a look at the Giant TCX 1 – retails at around £1000

Please don’t let the negative comments put you off this event.
For £25 my son and myself spent a whole weekend sampling different bikes, riding dirt and tarmac, watching mtb heroes racing and jumping and a bit of chill out time inbetween. Fantastic.
OK the brill weather was a huge bonus but the lack of a multitude of jumble sale trade stands was not missed. Perhaps a few more toilets and water points for the campers would be good for next year.
Already looking forward to 2010

I’ve recently built up a Giant TCX frameset – frame 1420g, forks 610g.
RRP £525 but should be able to get some discount.
Don’t see many Giants on the cross circuit – I might find out why when the season starts in Sept.

My son has a TCX1 and I have a TCX frameset.
Light, compact frame with sharp geometry. We use ours for cross racing but with a pair of slicks on make a good road bike.
Well set up canti’s work fine by the way.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.
It’s actually even worse as the final payment may be viewed as a termination fee and should
also cover the fair market value of the goods in order to transfer legal ownership from the employer to the employee.

Yes, I’m afraid the taxman treats it as a ‘benefit in kind’ which will be taxable.

The problem is the balance owing will be taken from your net salary.
Therefore, you loose the tax advantage on the outstanding amount.

Fred Dibnah

Legspin – Too true.

Swadeys gang haven’t seen him for months

My 03 Epic takes a 34.9 dia. front mech.

We set up our own cycle to work scheme which means we can go to any cycle retailer and purchase direct. The third party facilitators such as Cyclescheme etc take a commision off the retailer meaning you usually have to buy at full list price.
It’s simple to set up and run as all the forms can be found on the internet.

Oh no! I’ve got flat bars, bar ends, multiple gears, frame from a mainstream manufacturer and wear lycra shorts! Help!

Sadly bar ends have become victims of the fashion police.
Shame really as they are great for climbing, fast smooth flat sections and alternative hand positions.
Can’t see why they cannot be used on risers as long as they are not too wide or too swept.

Hey Swadey,
Less of this saddo solo riding! Come and ride with us ‘old uns’.
All the drafters have beggered off to Sicilly for the weekend.