[RBW] Re: DC Riv Dealer Figures Visually in TV Piece

2024-05-19 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Ben Boerum is the owner.  Suburban is the mindset of the opponents and 
those who use CT Ave as a commuter route.  If I said it, it was ironic.

Steve Seelig

On Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 3:18:42 AM UTC-4 pbsm...@gmail.com wrote:

> This is awesome, been meaning to get over to Happy Go. I'm all in on the 
> CT Ave bike lanes, obviously, but calling it "suburban" is a bit of a 
> misnomer, it's entirely within DC city limits!
> Patrick in Petworth
>
> On Friday, May 17, 2024 at 1:33:03 PM UTC-4 ian m wrote:
>
>> I was in DC the weekend after the Nat'l bike summit, which my wife 
>> attended, and we rode the Capital Crescent to Rock Creek with a dedicated 
>> stop at Happy Go. The owner (whose name I can't recall) was incredibly 
>> friendly and we chatted about infrastructure and how obnoxious it is that 
>> wealthy residents oppose traffic calming or more livable streets when it 
>> would interrupt their god-given right to park in front of Starbucks. Hoping 
>> the improvements move forward! Also what a great shop
>>
>> On Friday, May 17, 2024 at 10:22:51 AM UTC-4 Steven Seelig wrote:
>>
>>> Here in suburban DC we have been battling to get a bike lane put in on 
>>> our main commuter route.  The Mayor was all in until about a month ago, so 
>>> now the City Council is standing up to her.  Basically, it would head from 
>>> the top of DC downtown as a protected lane and would be huge win.
>>>
>>> I do local advocacy and the TV reporter (yes, a cyclist) reached out to 
>>> me, I said meet me at our LBS Riv dealer, Happy Go.  I am off my bike for a 
>>> week or so, so my Platty did not make an appearance, but Happy Go did.  And 
>>> that is my head talking in favor.
>>>
>>> Link to story 
>>> 
>>>
>>> Steve Seelig
>>>
>>

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[RBW] DC Riv Dealer Figures Visually in TV Piece

2024-05-17 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Here in suburban DC we have been battling to get a bike lane put in on our 
main commuter route.  The Mayor was all in until about a month ago, so now 
the City Council is standing up to her.  Basically, it would head from the 
top of DC downtown as a protected lane and would be huge win.

I do local advocacy and the TV reporter (yes, a cyclist) reached out to me, 
I said meet me at our LBS Riv dealer, Happy Go.  I am off my bike for a 
week or so, so my Platty did not make an appearance, but Happy Go did.  And 
that is my head talking in favor.

Link to story 


Steve Seelig

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[RBW] Re: FS: 58cm Ram $1800 with more photos

2024-04-25 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Bumping this.  My neighbor got a few bites but the frame turned out to be 
too big or too small.  Let me know if you are interested and I will put you 
in touch with the seller.

On Monday, April 15, 2024 at 11:36:26 AM UTC-4 Steven Seelig wrote:

> [image: Resized_Resized_20240414_162333.jpeg][image: 
> Resized_Resized_20240414_162351.jpeg][image: 
> Resized_Resized_20240414_162708.jpeg][image: 
> Resized_Resized_20240414_162737.jpeg]
>
>

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Re: [RBW] Re: How do I know when a saddle fits?

2024-04-03 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
A lot of great input here.  I think I now know how individual an issue this 
can be just from the comments.

For me, just recently it has turned out that all those Brooks C17s I have 
ON ALL MY BIKEs are no longer working for me.  This may be TMI but it turns 
out that because of their shape, my sitbone locates a bit forward of the 
rear of the saddle and that causes paid for me as cocsysx bashes into the 
raises rear of the saddle.  Not really a problem if I am riding on flat 
ground.  When I do need more umps, and I push toward the back of the 
saddle, that is when I am enduring pain.  I am working with a physical 
therapist to figure out if this is because of a weak pelvic floor.

What I have discovered is that the whole saddle business is rapidly 
evolving, with such things as 3D printed saddles, men's specific Terry 
seats (from a company that made its name making women's saddles), the major 
players like Trek and Specialized have actual heat mapping that would help 
explain your hot spots - and those are just a few examples.  For me, I have 
learned that many of the newer saddle that have gaps for your dainty bits 
also have space to the rear so that your sitbone may reside on the saddle 
while the rear part of your rear may hang out back.  I am testing saddles 
with that profile and things look promising.

No, I am not selling all those Brooks quite yet - don't get any ideas.

Steve Seelig, District of Columbia

On Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 2:11:57 AM UTC-4 anthony@gmail.com wrote:

> +1 for the Rivet Pearl. I've got one on a Soma Double Cross, and the 
> version with the cutout is indeed an excellent fit for several positions 
> fore and aft!
>
> On Sat, Mar 30, 2024, 3:25 PM ascpgh  wrote:
>
>> Emily, I have dealt with roughly your sort of physiological dimensioning 
>> my whole riding life and currently have three variations of coping, each 
>> with saddles that bear varying results. Those results have inseparable 
>> connection to how well each of the bikes they are on fits me. 
>>
>> My commuter is a stock Surly Disc Trucker "box bike". I added a Brooks 
>> B-17, pedals , Nitto RM 013 handlebar, dyno hub/ lights and a shorter a 
>> stem. The frame size that produced the best reach to the handlebars 
>> required a long  extension of the seat post and would have required a 
>> pretty high angle stem for those bars to be level with the seat, my comfort 
>> zone, and would also need significant setback dimension of the seat post 
>> head. The frame size that gives the best pedaling position requires a short 
>> stem to keep me from reaching, sort of. I still feel like I reach for the 
>> bars on that bike and do not ride it more than 20 miles. Even on the bigger 
>> size I find my legs drive me to slide back on the seat, onto the cantle 
>> (that metal thing) for many climbs before I pedal out of the saddle. Lots 
>> of compromises but it's my 14 hour lock up bike.
>>
>> My Rivendell Rambouillet was the best stock bike fit to my body I'd ever 
>> experienced and prevented me from going custom. Grant envisioned it as a 
>> long hours in the saddle sporty/light touring bike in the French 
>> audax/randonnour-inspired design for comfort over hours of riding. Shorter 
>> top tube than seat tube, with 2° upslope and 2 cm extended top head tube 
>> lug all conspired to provide this. It all conspires to fitting me well. It 
>> was a stock build kit from Riv with the B-17, RM 013 bars, I added the 
>> fenders, and changed the derailleurs, shifters and brakes. I do pedal from 
>> the saddle quite a bit more than others in groups before getting out of it 
>> and standing for hills. I still find myself sliding back on the seat for a 
>> rearward position to get some pushing forward on the pedal strokes when 
>> going uphill. That puts me on that cantle again, less than on the commuter 
>> but with the bars in more comfortable reach.
>>
>> I finally did go custom to for the sort of riding I have available and 
>> enjoy from my front door. I've refined what I look for in saddles, 
>> acknowledging that I do stay on the saddle across more terrain than others, 
>> scooting rearward for that pushing bit where others pop up, pedaling out of 
>> their saddles. That fore and aft position range has made me a connoisseur 
>> of saddle tops that have a platform of surface wide enough for my sit bones 
>> but also retaining that in the longitudal dimension of my back and forth 
>> positioning. I want that platform to be level and I don't want extra 
>> material rubbing my legs. 
>>
>> I am using a Rivet Pearl with cut out on my custom bike. The cut out lets 
>> the centerline of the leather "hammock" between the nose and cantle without 
>> the same amount of weight my sit bones applied to those spots that breaks 
>> in the points where they do bear weight. Without the cut out, that leather 
>> remains a linear high ridge from front to back where the less skeletal 
>> portions of my rear end are perched. I thought I 

Re: [RBW] Philadelphia Bike Expo March 16 - 17

2024-03-09 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I know a guy who would love that . . . not me.  Do you have pics or a link 
to the CL ad?

On Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 8:30:46 AM UTC-5 brycel...@gmail.com wrote:

> For anyone extra tall coming in from out of town, I have a 62cm Sam listed 
> as a frameset w crank and seat post on CL here in Philly. If you want to 
> make a deal, I am open to offers and have all the fixings for a complete 
> build. I'll be around doing some of the local rides as well as the Keystone 
> afterparty. 
>
> On Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 1:58:21 PM UTC-5 benjamin@gmail.com 
> wrote:
>
>> I’ll see you all there! I’ve got to work Saturday but I’ll make it out to 
>> the Expo on Sunday and Keystone’s partay Saturday night. My three-year-old 
>> has developed a distinct preference for the Surly Cross Check over the 
>> Atlantis and Clem but whatever the case we’ll roll up on two wheels. 
>>
>> On Mon, Feb 26, 2024 at 5:22 PM Roberta  wrote:
>>
>>> https://phillybikeexpo.com/
>>>
>>> Lots of things to do--the expo, rides, parties, coffee and meet ups.
>>>
>>> I'm going.  Who else?  I'm within walking distance to the expo (but will 
>>> be riding my Betty Foy there, because, well..., I should ride).  If anyone 
>>> needs any local assistance, please reach out via DM.  
>>>
>>> There is free bike valet parking by Neighborhood Bike works, and 
>>> donations accepted.  It's a great way to fund the community bike center.
>>>
>>> I hope to meet or see again lots of us happy Riv riders.
>>>
>>> Roberta
>>>
>>> -- 
>>>
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>>>  
>>> 
>>> .
>>>
>>

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[RBW] Re: RoadeoRosa teaser

2024-02-13 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
My sister lives in the same building as David Byrne in Manhattan.  I've 
seen his bikes stored in the basement.  He definitely rides them.

On Monday, February 12, 2024 at 9:42:04 PM UTC-5 Kainalu V. -Brooklyn NY 
wrote:

> Maybe not the best, but pretty good considering that whole psycho-killer 
> business..  And the celebrity one is most likely to see on an N-YC bike 
> path! 
> So yeah, good article, better bike.
> -Kai
>
> On Monday, February 12, 2024 at 6:15:06 PM UTC-5 Bill Lindsay wrote:
>
>> Thanks for the article, Kai.  It wasn't the best-written article I have 
>> ever read, but there is a lot of fun cultural history content in there.  
>>
>> Pink for the win!
>>
>> BL in EC
>> On Friday, February 9, 2024 at 5:57:15 PM UTC-8 Kainalu V. -Brooklyn NY 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> That’s a good bike, and a great color. The lawyer lips were lost in 
>>> transit? Or that’s a semi custom option?
>>> Here’s a great essay by David Byrne on Pink, if you’re interested- 
>>> https://www.cabinetmagazine.org/issues/11/byrne.php
>>> Enjoy!
>>> -Kai
>>>
>>>
>>> On Friday, February 9, 2024 at 5:22:34 PM UTC-5 Bill Lindsay wrote:
>>>
 Rick at D tells me he'll be delivering my Roadeo frame set to 
 Rivendell HQ next week sometime.  He gave me a sneak peek at my 
 color-matched Rene Herse/Honjo fenders.  Here they are:


 https://www.flickr.com/photos/45758191@N04/53519732639/in/album-72177720313109003/

 It's getting real

 Bill Lindsay
 El Cerrito, CA

>>>

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[RBW] Re: FS: Dynamo gear and Nitto handlebars (SF Bay)

2024-02-07 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I'm interested in the Dynamo.  I sent a PM.

On Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 2:55:47 AM UTC-5 CMR wrote:

> Kite bars and Nitto rack sold, albatross bars pending.
>
> Regarding the question: I am only selling because of a lifestyle 
> adjustment. I realized 99% of my rides are a mile long and during day time 
> hours so the money might be better spent on baby food! I have a much 
> cheaper blinkie I am using to be seen. For seeing, dynamo lights are 
> unmatched, with perfect wide beams. And for longer rides I always thought 
> it was worth the price because I never had to worry about a charge, 
> especially since most lights are USB chargeable now without an easy battery 
> back up.
>
> As for the parts, I chose Schmidt because it’s a stunning and high quality 
> hub with famous reliability. I chose the lights because Rivendell and Peter 
> White endorsed them and know more about lights than I ever will.
>
> Happy to answer any other questions!
>
>
>
>
> On Monday, February 5, 2024 at 10:04:32 PM UTC-8 chefd...@gmail.com wrote:
>
>> Hi Chris - I've been thinking about a dynamo set-up for my Homer...I'm 
>> not that familiar with the options, so just reading whatever I can find 
>> about the items you have chosen. Are you upgrading to a new system?
>>
>> I live in Napa and work in SF, so not that far from Menlo Parksd
>>
>> On Sunday, February 4, 2024 at 3:51:23 PM UTC-8 CMR wrote:
>>
>>> Prices are for a local deal picked up in Menlo Park, I am half a mile 
>>> from the Cal Train station. Really hoping not to ship or split parts just 
>>> yet.
>>>
>>> Pics here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/21267164@N02/
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> *Dynamo set up - $400*
>>>
>>> *Front wheel *Schmidt Son to Mavic Open Sport, butted spokes, all 
>>> silver in good but used condition.
>>>
>>>
>>> *Front Light*Busch and Mueller IQ-XS – silver, used 100 miles, uncut 
>>> cable length, some storage marks pictured.
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/iq-xs-1?_pos=3&_sid=8d7b3837c&_ss=r
>>>
>>>
>>> *Rear Lights*Busch & Müller Toplight Line Brake Plus Pulsating tail 
>>> light – used 25 miles, great condition.
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/dyno-rack-light
>>>
>>> Busch & Müller SecuZED Plus Dyno Tail Light for Fender, Frame or Seat 
>>> Post – looks like it might be missing a bracket, you can likely call Riv 
>>> for one, or MacGyver a threaded attachment.
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/xfhz66816?_pos=2&_sid=8d7b3837c&_ss=r
>>>
>>> B Saddle Rail Bracket – never used
>>> https://www.clevercycles.com/b-m-saddle-rail-bracket.html
>>>
>>> Schmidt dynamo tail light wire
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/schimdt-wire?_pos=6&_sid=8d7b3837c&_ss=r
>>>
>>> Two rear B cables
>>>
>>> Schmidt coaxial connector
>>>
>>> https://www.renehersecycles.com/shop/equipment/lights/schmidt-coaxial-adapter/
>>>
>>>
>>> Nitto R14 – used condition, all required hardware – extra $100 
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> *Nitto handlebars – all 3 for $200*Nitto albatross (heat-treated 
>>> aluminum) – unridden but scratched from installing it on a tight stem - $85
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/nitto-albatross-bar-cromo-55cm-x-25-4
>>>
>>> Nitto choco bar (heat-treated aluminum) – not pictured, I can send one 
>>> if interested. Ridden 200 miles, scratched from a tight stem but overall 
>>> good condition - $85
>>>
>>> https://www.rivbike.com/products/nitto-choco-norm-bar-alu-ht-54cm-x-25-4-100mm-sleeve-tandem-162491
>>>
>>> Nitto kite bars B355 (heat-treated aluminum) – new in package – $50
>>>
>>

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Re: [RBW] FS: Rambouillet 54cm, Classic Blue

2024-02-06 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Sold.

On Friday, February 2, 2024 at 10:05:01 AM UTC-5 Steven Seelig wrote:

> Here are some photos so folks needn't click on that link.  And the Brooks 
> seat mounted that is part of the offer.
> [image: IMG_0253.jpg][image: IMG_0246.jpg][image: IMG_0251.jpg][image: 
> IMG_0250.jpg][image: IMG_0248.jpg][image: IMG_0257.jpg]
> [image: IMG_0270.jpg][image: IMG_0254.jpg]
>
>
>
>

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[RBW] FS: Rambouillet 54cm, Classic Blue

2024-02-01 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Sad to part with this Classic Blue version, but have finally realized that 
I should ride a 56cm.  And it just so happens that another customer of my 
LBS HappyGo Bikes in Washington, DC was moving on from hers.  So trading 
the blue for a dark green.  

Photos should be accessible via the link below.  Amazingly, just a fews 
fleck scratches - the color still pops.

   -  Set up as an upright with Mostache steel bars and bar end Shimano 
   shifters.  
   -  Components are basically what came with the bike, Shimano headset, 
   105 hubs, 105 front derailleur.   Newer Deore derailleur that replaced the 
   short cage 105, which I still have if your would rather.
   -  Pedals are meh - I could be convinced to offer SKS Sneaker pedals if 
   requested.  
   -  Carved Brooks Flyer saddle included.  
   
Offered for $1900.  Can ship from my LBS at your cost.  

https://share.icloud.com/photos/077BIXWT4gxqwcMZb12iG1e2g
 

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[RBW] FS: 54cm Rambouillet, Classic Blue

2024-02-01 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Sad to part with this Classic Blue version, but have finally realized that 
I should ride a 56cm.  And it just so happens that another customer of my 
LBS HappyGo Bikes in Washington, DC was moving on from hers.  So trading 
the blue for a dark green.  

Photos should be accessible via the link below.  Amazingly, just a fews 
fleck scratches - the color still pops.

   - Set up as an upright with Mostache steel bars and bar end Shimano 
   shifters.  
   - Components are basically what came with the bike, Shimano headset, 105 
   hubs, 105 front derailleur.   Newer Deore derailleur that replaced the 
   short cage 105, which I still have if your would rather.
   - Pedals are meh - I could be convinced to offer SKS Sneaker pedals if 
   requested.  
   - B-17 Brooks saddle included.  

Offered for $1900.  Can ship from my LBS at your cost.  

https://share.icloud.com/photos/06bJo7ygvLULclk4JgFzSsfGw

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[RBW] Re: WTB: Mavic Reflective Vest

2024-01-18 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I can't help you on the Mavic vest.  My LBS carries a brand of vests from 
Belgium called  Go Fluo. 
 https://gofluo.com/product-category/sale/?v=7516fd43adaa  Happy-Go in DC 
is also a Riv dealer.  Give Ben a call and he can tell you what items he 
has in stock.  https://www.happygobikes.com/s/shop  Phone 202-481-3300. 
On Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 11:42:13 AM UTC-5 campyo...@me.com wrote:

> Anybody have one of these in Large? I’m looking for one in slightly better 
> condition than mine, which is losing its reflective material.
>
> [image: image.jpeg]
>
> --Eric Norris
> campyo...@me.com
> Insta: @CampyOnlyGuy
> YouTube: YouTube.com/CampyOnlyGuy 
>
>

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Re: [RBW] Re: FS: Paul Minimoto Brakes $225 - I have a pair to sell also!

2024-01-16 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I love that this become a worthwhile discussion about whether these darn 
great brakes would fit on your particular bike.  I used these for several 
years on my decidedly non-riv Specialized cross bike that was my 20 mile 
round trip commuter.  They worked so much better than the stock specialized 
Cantilevers  on a 32mm fendered bike.

They are now sold.

On Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 1:00:05 PM UTC-5 Patrick Moore wrote:

> This is the information I was looking for; many thanks.
>
> Nope, won't fit; at least 15 mm too short. Too bad. But the Paul cantis 
> work alright.
>
> On Tue, Jan 16, 2024 at 6:29 AM Steve  wrote:
>
>>  Patrick, this reference lists the Minimoto as having an 83mm arm length. 
>> Compare that to the length of your current brakes.  
>>
>> https://gravelbikearchive.wordpress.com/2014/06/20/v-brake-arm-lengths/. 
>>
>> On Monday, January 15, 2024 at 10:40:23 PM UTC-5 Patrick Moore wrote:
>>
>>> Thanks, Cal, that's helpful.
>>>
>>> All: the RH site estimates 47 mm for the OR on a 21 m IW rim. I've got 
>>> Naches Passes (at 41.5 mm) under VO 50 mm fenders with ~ 1.25 mm of 
>>> clearance over the tires. 
>>>
>>> Does anyone know if this more or less equals in vertical and horizontal 
>>> extension a 47 m tire?
>>>
>>>
>>> On Mon, Jan 15, 2024 at 8:31 PM Cal Patterson  wrote:
>>>
 I've got a minimoto on the front wheel of my quickbeam, and it fits a 
 RH 700x48 knobby (oracle ridge)

>>> -- 
>>
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>>  
>> 
>> .
>>
>
>
> -- 
>
> Patrick Moore
> Alburquerque, Nuevo Mexico, Etats Unis d'Amerique, Orbis Terrarum
>
> ---
>
> Executive resumes, LinkedIn profiles, bios, letters, and other writing 
> services
>
>
> ---
>
> *When thou didst not, savage, k**now thine own meaning,*
>
> *But wouldst gabble like a** thing most brutish,*
>
> *I endowed thy purposes w**ith words that made them known.*
>

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[RBW] Re: RAGBRAI?

2024-01-15 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
The brilliance of RAGBRAI is that you can do it however you want.  Fancy 
tent set-up and more food than you'd ever eat; finding a tour that actually 
books you into someone's home; to just getting your duffel bag of stuff 
hauled by the RAGBRAI truck from town to town.  There are so many choices 
to make it's like scrolling through Amazon until you have so many choices 
you can't decide.  Think about what you want first and then focus on that.

I'll talk about the training.  I did it 6 years or so ago when I was in my 
late 50s.  I started making sure that I had a base of mileage starting 
right about now.   In DC we have few days when I can't ride, so getting in 
a base of 50-75 miles a week was doable.  For younger folks, perhaps the 
ramp up time would be less, but I would want to be doing serious training 
at least 4 months out so you can get up to 150 miles per week by the end of 
May.  For me, the training was most important so that I could learn about 
where my max heart rate would be so I could make sure that I would know 
when to back off on my pace and on the climbs.  I found this to be a key 
things to understand because the earlier you run into the red zone, the 
less you have for later in the ride.  Multiply that by 7 days of riding and 
it is something well worth knowing.  I invested in a heart monitor for 
training but did not need it for the ride itself.

Weight training is helpful for those bike specific muscles other than your 
legs.  Not huge weights or anything, but getting in several sets on your 
non leg muscles will be a big help.  I also focused on deadlifts for more 
power in my riding.

Another thing you must train for it riding in the heat.  A buddy of mine 
who lived in Florida where, of course, there were no hills had things 
pretty dialed in because he had trained in the heat.  So this is something 
that you can't really do until late May and June, which is when I might 
focus on longer rides in the heat that challenge your body to get used to 
sweating and replenishing your fluids with whatever works.  It was Gatorade 
for me.  

One thing that surprised me quite a bit was actually how many fancy bike 
racers were seriously challenged by the long, rolling hills.  I rode my 
non-Riv road bike with an 11-34 rear cluster and a compact front crankset. 
 So almost inevitably, the fancy Dans would come speeding down the prior 
hill and started hammering up the next hill.  But these were rarely hills 
where you could just hammer and crest the top.  They are rolling like mile 
or 2 mile climbs.  So the plastic bikes rode fast for the first third of 
the climb and then I would pace past them.  Not because I was a stronger 
rider but because racing bikes are typically not geared properly for 
sustained climbing.  My way of saying that a well geared Rivendell is a 
much better choice for the ride.

On Monday, January 15, 2024 at 8:02:11 PM UTC-5 George Schick wrote:

> Not sure why you'd want to go through the trouble to travel all the way 
> over to the Western end of Iowa for this ride particular ride given the 
> distance to get there, the logistics, accommodation issues and the sheer 
> mass of riders (some of whom seem to like to stop at every bar along a 
> portion of a daily route until they're so inebriated that they crash into 
> trees, etc., vehicles that have run over cyclists in sleeping bags, etc.) 
> just for the notoriety when you could enjoy a multiple number of great 
> rides right in your own backyard, so to speak.  Have you considered 
> https://lmb.org/events/ride-calendar/?
>
> On Monday, January 15, 2024 at 6:47:36 PM UTC-6 R. Alexis wrote:
>
>> Leah,
>>
>> I took the opportunity to ride the first day of RAGBRAI last summer. I 
>> live in eastern Nebraska. I happened to be off that weekend, heard it was 
>> starting that weekend and that it was the 50th anniversary of the ride. Had 
>> always thought of doing at least the first day, but never took the 
>> opportunity to look into it and would find out the morning of when local 
>> news would do reports on it. I took the opportunity. I enjoyed it, even if 
>> I tried to bite off too much in the process. I think if you are going to do 
>> the whole thing you best look at the dates and locations and figure out 
>> hotel/motel stays now. It is not a race, but definitely get conditioned for 
>> the heat, humidity and hills before hand. My plan was to ride to the second 
>> to last city location and double back in order to get in a century. I fell 
>> short of that and wished I would have just rode to the end city and called 
>> it a day. First day miles to the end city was 77. I estimated I did about 
>> 64 miles in my attempt to ride back to Sioux City. Sag truck ended up 
>> taking me to Storm Lake, IA where and I ended calling out a mayday to a 
>> friend to pick me up and get me back to Sioux City to my car. 
>>
>> I rode my Rivendell Mountain because I felt it would be the most 
>> comfortable with it's Softride 

Re: [RBW] Re: FS: Paul Minimoto Brakes $225 - I have a pair to sell also!

2024-01-15 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I feel like yes.  The issue for them was that they grabbed the outer sides 
of the fenders, which were several centimeters higher than the tires 
themselves.  But some 48s may be really 48s with knobbier and some may be 
closer to 45s.  My experience was with 45 plus fenders and the fenders 
needed to bend in because the higher part of the arms hit them.

Others may be able to weigh in.

On Monday, January 15, 2024 at 11:41:39 AM UTC-5 philip@gmail.com wrote:

> Do we think these might clear 48s without fenders then, or a bridge too 
> far?
>
> P. W.
> ~
> (917) 514-2207
> ~
>
>
>
>
> On Jan 15, 2024, at 8:26 AM, 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch <
> rbw-owne...@googlegroups.com> wrote:
>
> Mine are the black version.  They work great and I did find that once 
> dialed in, which did take some time, they were great with a nice linear 
> response.  However, can't use them on my Platy with 45mm tires AND SKS 
> fenders.  Well, I can, but then the fenders bend every time I brake.
>
>
> Same price for the pair - $225 shipped in US.
>
> 
> 
>
>
> -- 
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> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/rbw-owners-bunch/b2248e98-5967-4b31-aeda-614dca084166n%40googlegroups.com?utm_medium=email_source=footer>
> .
> 
> 
>
>

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[RBW] Re: 5 Boro Bike Tour (was NYC Riv Ride?)

2024-01-09 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
It is amazingly epic and not like anything else, ever.  

I've done it twice with my son on a tandem back when he was 8 and 9 years 
old.  First year, pouring rain and a sparse crowd.  While freezing, we made 
it to the 4th borough before bailing and taking the Brooklyn Bridge back to 
Manhattan.  For that one, we were up near the front when starting, which is 
key f you can get there to start.  We were never colder in our lives 
although my then 8 year old son was still not as miserable as he could have 
been - we were on a bike, after-all.

The second year, we were back in the pack and the experience was still 
great, but different as we got onto the highways, where traffic did back up 
as it would with 30K cyclists crammed into a 3 lanes road.  Also, there are 
all sorts of folks who are riding, some want to go fast at all costs, some 
are meanderers, others are just not ready to ride 40 miles.  Just smile and 
look at all the interesting people and bikes as you are queued up.  Meet 
friends.  Ring your bell.  Count the Rivs you see.

The portion you reach in Brooklyn when you get on the highway ends up being 
a revelation for a lot of riders, and not in a good way.  The road just 
opens up and it becomes clear that a long ride is ahead on a highway for 
the last several miles.  The wind will invariably be in your face then. You 
see a lot of riders who then are questioning their life choice because the 
road is really so imposing then.  And at some point, you see the Verrazano 
Bridge and it seems like the end is near.  It is not.  But once you get to 
it, and climb to the center and do the downhill ride to the finish, it is a 
great feeling.

Once done, there will be some time to get back across to Manhattan on the 
ferry.  Save food for this part of the journey.

On Monday, January 8, 2024 at 10:05:33 PM UTC-5 velomann wrote:

> The 5 Boro Bike Tour in NYC has been on my bucket list for years, and I 
> decided this year is the year. First Sunday of May (5/5 this year).
> https://www.bike.nyc/events/td-five-boro-bike-tour/
> Registration opened this week, and I signed up.
> I've got my lodging and flight booked as well.
>
> This will be my first trip to NYC since I was a kid, 50 years ago. I won't 
> be bringing my Riv (Bringing the Ritchey Breakaway), but I'll be there for 
> a week, staying in midtown not far from ride start. 
> I'd love to meet up with others while I'm there, get recommendations on 
> where to ride, cheap food, coffee, bike shops, etc.
>
> Anyone else here doing the ride?
>
> Mike M
>

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[RBW] Re: Has anyone else tried the new Riv seat?

2023-12-07 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I replaced a Brooks Flyer Curved on my Xtracycle now Bafang E-bike that is 
about as upright as it gets.  Agree that at first I wasn't sure where this 
part of my sit bone connected to that part of the saddle.  After a few more 
rides, I simply forgot it was on the bike at all.  Given that with e-bikes 
you are constantly shifting the assist and the 9 speed derailleur to hit 
the perfect sweet spot, and I ride in City traffic, perhaps I was not as 
in-tune as i would be on a quiet country road.  I prefer it to the Brooks 
and don't miss the absence of the spring in the least.  

My experience is likely comparing persimmons to cumquats for someone riding 
unupright on an analog bike.

On Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 1:53:12 PM UTC-5 Tom Wyland wrote:

I have it on my Platy currently. It replaced a Selle Anatomica H2 (at least 
for the winter). The SA was a tad too narrow since I swapped to slighly 
more upright bars. I haven't yet decided if the Riv saddle is too wide (by 
1-2cm).  I don't really care for the wide nose of the Riv saddle, but I 
suppose I'll get used to it. I do like the flat shape and the amount of 
padding (minimal). It's good for a more upright ride due to the width.  I 
may use it on my wife's bike to swap out the Bontrager commuter saddle 
(wide).  When viewed from the side, the Bontrager commuter saddle has 
shoulders that slope down where the Riv saddle is a flat profile. We both 
prefer saddles that have a flat profile.  I've also ridden a VO wide 
touring saddle and the Riv saddle is wider both in the nose and the rear.

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Re: [RBW] Re: "You need 7 bikes" article

2023-03-30 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Agree with lconley about the entire resource issue compared to owning a 
car.  I would also say that I have just about one bike for each decade of 
my life, with some of them old enough to have been purchased in said 
decade.  The reality is that these bikes are a small bop in my impact on 
the planet compared with the very real impact of my doing a lot of other 
things, like driving to Costco and buying stuff flown in or driven to the 
store, throwing out all of the packaging, charging my EV car.  I don't feel 
very guilty when I take my unused parts or old bicycles to Gearing Up 
bikes, who trains kids to be bike mechanics refurbishing the frames and 
parts I brung them. 

On Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 9:58:06 AM UTC-4 brok...@gmail.com wrote:

> In order to achieve a true “Fellowship” of Rivendells, the number would be 
> 9. 慄‍♂️
>
> On Mar 30, 2023, at 9:46 AM, lconley  wrote:
>
> Of all the things in life that I feel guilty about or fret over, owning 
> too many bikes is not among them. There is maybe 250 total lbs of steel 
> among all of them, 750 lbs of of material total. If you own an average 
> American pickup truck or SUV, you have consumed more resources than me and 
> a Honda and all of my bicycles. The current total is 23 (10 Rivs), 25 (11 
> Rivs) if I include my wife's. I am down from 30+. My longest owned is a 
> 1973 production Paramount P-15 that I purchased new in December of 1975. I 
> haven't bought a bike/frame in almost 3 years. My current goal is to get 
> down to 15 or less - at that point all of them can be hung on the walls of 
> the garage (except for my wife's recumbent trike) so that I can get the 
> rowing sailboat into the garage and out of the storage unit.
>
> Thinning the herd is difficult. I find it easier to give away bicycles 
> that to sell them for some reason, but I am running out of bikes that I 
> will give away.
>
> Laing
>
> On Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 7:14:29 AM UTC-4 Steven Sweedler wrote:
>
>> John, a breath of fresh air. Steve
>>
>> On Wed, Mar 29, 2023 at 9:33 PM John Rinker  wrote:
>>
>>> At the risk of taking this discussion in an unintended direction and 
>>> opening a can of worms that, in my mind, has been opened for quite some 
>>> time now, I find this question of how many bikes one ‘needs’ to be an 
>>> interesting one to consider from a variety of perspectives. (Full 
>>> disclosure: there are currently 7 bicycles in my shop- 3 of mine, 2 
>>> belonging to my wife, and one is my daughter’s. There are also two very 
>>> nice frames). 
>>>
>>> Considering this question from the perspective of our current resource 
>>> crisis - you know, the one in which there are too many humans desiring too 
>>> many things that our planet has too few resources to sustain- helps me to 
>>> greatly appreciate the bicycles I do ride, but also causes me question if 
>>> my ownership of any more than one bike contributes to the imbalance of 
>>> desires vs. resources. Anyone else bothered by this?
>>>
>>> Another perspective through which I look at this question of ‘how many 
>>> bikes does one need’ comes from my many years of living in developing 
>>> countries in Africa and Asia where the ownership of a single bicycle can 
>>> have significant ramifications for a family in terms of economics and 
>>> education. In many of these places, that there would be one bicycle for a 
>>> family of 7 (or more) would be considered a luxury. And so, to ask myself 
>>> how many bicycles I *need *causes me to cringe slightly and immediately 
>>> takes my mind down the road of resource distribution and equity.
>>>
>>> Finally, as an educator, I’ve always made it a point to help my students 
>>> understand the difference between *needs* and *desires, *and the 
>>> implications of each on our habits of consumption. Of course, in the 
>>> context of this group and this particular thread, I’m well aware that we 
>>> all agree that we are speaking about our desires rather than our needs, but 
>>> still, it’s another perspective from which to come at this question.
>>>
>>> I’m sure there are other perspectives that might make this consideration 
>>> interesting and, of course, remind us all how fortunate we are to own and 
>>> ride so many lovely bicycles. 
>>>
>>> I know, nobody expected the Spanish Inquisition! (Monty Python anybody?)
>>>
>>> Cheers, John
>>>
>>> On Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at 5:53:28 PM UTC-7 Ian A wrote:
>>>
 The problem is, there is always justification for another bicycle, like 
 the relatively new bikepacking designs (Jones Bikes for example) which 
 also 
 do a very good job of displacing conventional touring bikes. Or a foldable 
 Brompton, just because. Then there is sentimentality, like my beloved 
 Marinoni which  has taken and continues to take me on so many  touring 
 adventures, but which I would not be shopping for if looking today as I 
 want ever more tire clearance from a frame. Then there is the poor, abused 

[RBW] Re: "You need 7 bikes" article

2023-03-29 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Bikes in order of use:

   1. Brand new Platypus for City riding
   2. Spectrum titanium road bike (frame fabricated by Seven) for clipped 
   in rides and longer road tours
   3. Rambouillet for more spirited city rides.
   4. Sam outfitted as a gravel bike for country rides
   5. Xtracycle cargo bike with a large aftermarket Bafang 1,000 watt motor 
   for shopping.
   6. Brompton for train and plane travel and occasional last mile rides if 
   driving to a big car traffic event
   7. 1986 Look Bernard Hinault Reynolds 753 steel bike.  Same frame as the 
   ones he a Lemond rode in the tour when the badger would not let Greg usurp 
   his team leadership and claim the Yellow Jersey.  


On Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at 3:30:19 PM UTC-4 Edwin W wrote:

Bikes in order of use

   1. Joe Appa daily driver
   2. Raleigh sprite vintage fixed for variety in commute
   3. 90's GT avalanche for occasional MTB'ing
   4. Dahon boardwalk guest bike I will occasionally use
   5. Vintage Schwinn tandem for occasional fun ride. Kickback 2 speed

Apparently I have too (two) few bikes!

Edwin



On Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at 7:45:16 AM UTC-5 Tom Palmer wrote:

Hi all,
I recall an article by Grant about the number of bike a person needs with 
justification. I think it was 7.
 Any idea which reader it was in?
Thanks!
Tom Palmer
Twin Lake, MI

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[RBW] Re: Platypus questions

2023-02-09 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Hi Doug,

My PBH is a little higher than yours.  I just got a new Platypus, well last 
Fall, and followed Riv's advice in getting the 60cm size along with pretty 
long reach Nitto Loscoe handlebars.  Looks like the photos here: 
https://www.rivbike.com/products/frame-platypus-2021

My experience is that I sometimes step through to get on the bike, but it 
is sorta hard to do that think where you take your leg as you are about to 
dismount while riding and slide it through in front of you to get both feet 
on the ground.the gap .  The frame is just a bit too high for that.  I 
compare that to my first generation Xtracycle long tail, where I have to 
dismount that way because if I swing my leg around I would kick my kid or 
any cargo quite inelegantly.  

As for mounting the bike, or getting off once stopped, there is still an 
extra bit of leg lifting to do.  So I think Kim is onto something here with 
the Clem.

Steve Seelig, Wash, DC

On Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 9:26:37 PM UTC-5 mma...@gmail.com wrote:

> Hi Doug! Although not platypuss, I have clem L in both 59cm and 52cm if 
> you want to take a test ride. Holler at me, I'm in the Valley.
> - Matt
> On Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 5:08:01 PM UTC-8 dougP wrote:
>
>> Thanks for the response, Kim. Really, any Rivendell step thru is an 
>> option. I don't do any trail riding so the Platypus is sufficient & I'm 
>> guessing will have a softer ride than one of the more trail capable frames. 
>> A major factor will be what's available, and with Riv's current delivery 
>> program one has to be ready to make a decision & commit on short notice. 
>>
>> doug
>>
>> On Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 6:44:22 AM UTC-8 krhe...@gmail.com wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> Hi Doug,
>>>
>>> With the purchase of my Clem Smith Jr. "L" bicycle, it was the best 
>>> option for me in choosing a bicycle with a step-through frame with an 
>>> upright riding position as a senior cyclist. Yes, I had trouble swinging my 
>>> right leg over the back end of my previous bike, as well.  I have been 
>>> looking for these requirements in a bike for quite a few years.  
>>> Furthermore, I enjoy the Clem's capabilities as being a ATB. A very solid 
>>> and sure-footed bike. 
>>>
>>> The Clem maybe an option for you ?
>>>
>>> Kim Hetzel
>>> Yelm, WA.
>>>
>>>
>>> On Monday, February 6, 2023 at 7:44:54 PM UTC-8 dougP wrote:
>>>
 I love my Atlantis, but it's getting harder to swing the old leg over 
 the saddle. Time to move on to a step thru. The Platypus looks like the 
 best option for my riding, mostly short trips around town. 

 The 55 cm fits my PBH (84) & saddle height. What I'm interested in 
 doing is comparing the geometry to my 58 cm Toyo Atlantis. Specifically, 
 I'm curious about the distance of the seat from the bars. I seem to be 
 shrinking in my old age & the reach on the Atlantis is just a bit too far. 
 Not unridable but a noticeable stretch, even with a short stem & swept 
 back 
 bars.

 Let me know if you may be of assistance. Be forewarned I'll probably 
 think of some more questions if this looks promising. It would be 
 fantastic 
 is you're in southern California.

 Doug Peterson 
  

>>>

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[RBW] Re: Ride report: Shenandoah foothills

2022-08-24 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Hi there Eric.  We just found a beautiful farmhouse to renovate that seems 
close to where this ride took place.  We are in Facquier County near the 
town of Orleans and can attest that for any ride, forecast 100 feet of 
climbing per mile.  I am interested in knowing more about your route, 
understanding that you did much of it by feel, and not via Strava or 
RidewithGPS.  Similarly, I can attest that using the same triple you 
formerly employed on your Sam gives me all the gearing needed, but does 
cause me to do a LOT of awkward shifting.  You solution with the compact is 
intriguing particularly since there is often little need for the higher 
gears on the large chainring - there are really no gradual hills out here; 
its either up or steep down.

When you write such a great piece it should be expected people will want to 
replicate it.  Thanks for doing it.

On Monday, August 15, 2022 at 9:52:21 AM UTC-4 eric...@gmail.com wrote:

> Shenandoah Foothills
> 47 miles, 5,380 feet
> Clear. Low 60s in the morning, warming to the high 70s, humidity at 50% 
> and below. 
>
> August in Virginia is typically a warm and uncomfortable month with 
> average temperatures in the mid 80s and often creeping into the upper 90s. 
> Humidity is unpleasantly high as well. The past few weeks were particularly 
> oppressive with humidity averaging around 70% (and often much higher) and 
> temperatures reaching the 90s most days. These temps have forced the smart 
> riders to depart at first light, drenched to the bone before 8AM. 
>
> We had a break from all of that this weekend with temperatures dipping 
> into a realm of unseasonable deliciousness. Low humidity, a cool morning 
> starting in the high 50s and a max temperature around 80º had this Saturday 
> looking too good to pass by unridden. 
>
> I recently swapped out the drivetrain on my Hillborne. I had been running 
> a Sugino XD2 with a 48/36/24, a Shimano 11-36 9-speed cassette, a plain 
> silver Shimano Ultegra front mech and a Shimano Deore XT M771 rear 
> derailer. These worked just fine but I found the chainrings left me 
> shifting at awkward intervals and I'd been wanting to try a compact double. 
>
> So I changed in a SunXCD crank with 42/26 chainrings from TA Specialites 
> purchased from Jitensha Studio in Berkeley. Because I found the Shimano 
> mechs were too ugly for my liking I sought out a Suntour Cyclone GT rear 
> and a Cyclone front derailer. These lovely workhorses seemed more 
> appropriate for the bike. I installed one of the new S-Ride 7-speed 
> cassettes from Soma Fab Shop, made with input from Rivendell. The movement 
> and tooth capacity of the rear Cyclone didn't agree with a 9-speed 
> cassette. And I swapped my MKS XC-III bear-trap pedals for MKS Sylvan 
> Gorditos specified by Crust. The bear-traps were uncomfortable for my very 
> wide feet.
>
> A friend sent me a used set of Rene Herse Snoqualmie Pass tires in the 
> extralight casing, which I hadn't tried before. I'd been running the same 
> in the standard casing for about a year. The new-to-me tires were buttery 
> smooth and I had no issues or flats during my ride. 
>
> Lately I have been enjoying Jobst Brandt's alpine tour reports with 
> sensational views, grand distances and unfathomable amounts of climbing. 
> I've also been reading Ray Hosler's collection of diaries from riding with 
> Brandt around the Santa Cruz Mountains in the 1980s. So inspired I made up 
> a route for myself that incorporated a few tough climbs on some of my 
> favorite roads. The length and elevation gain of my route doesn't compare 
> to their marathon rides.  
>
> From the start I began a three-mile climb over loose, unpaved road with 
> sections pitching up over 16% grade. I enjoy the challenge of making this 
> climb in one go but there is a shoulder with a wide mountain view that I 
> always end up stopping for. Pedaling up the climb, and some of the steepest 
> stuff I know, was manageable with my new gearing. I enjoy dumping the chain 
> from the 42-tooth to the 26-tooth ring when the going gets going. 
> Throughout the ride I had appropriate gearing to make it through without 
> much trouble. 
>
> [image: 20220813A 03.jpg]
>
> At the top of this hill, at an elevation of 1,300 feet, I took a rest for 
> some water. Though I had ridden fewer than four miles I decided to have 
> half of the sandwich I'd packed: peanut butter, banana, honey, coconut 
> flakes and salt on sourdough bread. As a fat burner I was worried how the 
> carbohydrates would treat me and concerned they would occasion bonking, 
> which I don't experience on rides. My engine runs best when I don't eat 
> bread, sugar, grain and the rest but I'd been craving a sandwich like this 
> for weeks. It was a pleasure and I suffered no ill effects. 
>
> As I started on my descent, my shirt damp with sweat, I was reminded of 
> how lovely the weather was. The air was cool and comfortable. Such a gift 
> and a relief from the weather 

[RBW] Talk Me Out of Building My Own Wheels

2020-10-19 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
So with COVID and all, I've decided that now is the time to do stuff that I 
haven't ever done before.  Learning to speak French is perhaps a bridge too 
far - not so good at language.  But it seems reasonable to think that I can 
at least build a front wheel with a Dyno hub to put on the Sam I ride in 
the means streets of DC and on some gravel.  

I have a truing stand but not a dishing tool.  I would say I am a competent 
wrencher.  Of course anyone who has built up a wheel did it once for the 
first time.  Is this something I should take on?  What are the odds for 
success?  Will I quit in frustration?

Points of view encouraged.

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[RBW] Re: Locking Up your Riv

2020-06-02 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
A second for the Granit X Plus.  I live in Washington DC and use it along 
with Pitlocks on my Ram and with the Abus locking skewers on my Sam.  It is 
heavy-ish, but I'm not racing.

I also have an Otto Lock for my racy bike when I lock it up for a few 
minutes.  I could see using the 3 foot Otto on a front wheel and the Granit 
X on the rear and dispense with the axle locks.

On Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at 4:05:48 PM UTC-4, Benz, Sunnyvale, CA wrote:
>
> On Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at 9:04:50 AM UTC-7, Vincent Tamer wrote:
>>
>>
>> What do you all use in the various conditions that you lock your bike up 
>> in?
>>
>
> I have a handful of nice locks as I've been trying them out, but I 
> eventually settled on the Abus Brodo, although mine is the burly Granit 
> X-plus variant. I like it because it is secure (lock mechanism was 
> well-reviewed by TheLockPickingLawyer 
> ), it is 
> compact when not in use, and it works well enough for locking my Wilbury up 
> at local grocery stores, Target, and such. I like it so much that I got my 
> son an identical one for his new-to-him Atlantis, that he rides to and 
> locks up at school. Note that I've equipped the bikes that get locked up 
> with Pitlocks , security 
> bolts , and strategically placed ball 
> bearings locked in with beeswax, so the locks are only used to secure the 
> frame to whatever immovable object.
>

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[RBW] PSA: Rivendell Sam Hillborne 56cm - $950 (Kensington) DC CL

2019-12-06 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
When looking at the sweet Betty Foy on DC CL, I saw this: 
https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/bik/d/kensington-rivendell-sam-hillborne-56cm/7024964694.html

Missing pedals and chain.  Too big for me.

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[RBW] Re: Seeking Washington DC bike shop

2019-10-22 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Golly gosh, such a hard question that should be easy.  It is all about the 
interactions between ownership and the mechanics.  I spoke with a local 
owner last week, and he seemed to think that mechanics are commodities that 
are interchangeable.  I happen to think not, but the fact of the matter is 
that the job does not pay all that well and some owners think they can have 
a young person with little bedside manner doing the wrenching, since it is 
just a commodity.

Bicycle Space downtown is no more, and that is where I ALWAYS took my 
bikes.  I like the owner and the mechanics were crusty and honest.  They 
are now just in Ivy City and I don't really know who is left.

The Bike Rack is downtown and seems to have great mechanics, but I have a 
palpable dislike for the owner, so I don't go there.  They seem to win 
awards for best bike shop each year, so worth a try.

When it comes to servicing my older bikes, the Bicycle Pro Shop always has 
parts in stock and very good mechanics who were nice to me.  I also had 
some success with the Conte's in Ballston, depending on who did the 
wrenching.

On Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 3:48:19 PM UTC-4, Wilson Wilson wrote:
>
> Paul, who did you speak with at Proteus? Reason why I ask is that just 
> sounds like an odd time. I would like to contact them as I recommend them 
> first in the area as to why this would happen. I wear their jersey on my 
> cycling adventures.

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[RBW] Re: Make my AHH look less tempting!

2019-10-01 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
The Philly Bike Expo  is coming up on Nov 2 
and 3rd, and for the past 2 years there's been a fella who gives a seminar 
each hour on bike locking and other safety tips for folks who ride on the 
mean streets of Philly.  He's very entertaining, and goes through all the 
things to think about in choosing a locking location, how to lock the bike, 
the benefits of locking wheel skewers, you name it.  Not a direct answer to 
your question.

My son who is now 10 and I have attended the past two years to listen to 
his presentation.  Our favorite is when he describes folks on the street 
who might be up to no good when you are cycling by as a single cyclist.  
His advice when you come close to those folks is to turn around and yell 
"Hey, Tommy," to give the impression there is someone else following you so 
you're not as easy a mark.  By the time you've ridden by, it's too late for 
them to figure out that Tommy ain't behind you.

So every now and then, when I'm out riding with my son, I yell "Hey Tommy," 
and he gets a good laugh.

Regardless of whether he's there, the Expo is fantastic and well worth 
checking out.  

On Friday, September 27, 2019 at 3:04:00 PM UTC-4, Eric Karnes wrote:
>
> Evening all-
>
> I'm interested in some group brainstorming. I recently moved to a 
> university area where I'm told there is a high incidence of bike theft. 
> (Granted this is a town in the UK and I just move here from Philadelphia, 
> so perhaps I should take that claim with a grain of salt). Nevertheless, my 
> AHH will shortly arrive here via Bikeflights. 
>
> I'm a firm believer in riding my 'good bikes' anywhere and everywhere, but 
> I don't want to tempt fate. So I'm looking for ideas: how could I make my 
> Hilsen look less desirable to opporunistic British bike thrives? It's brown 
> and has albatross bars so it already looks a bit like an old British beater 
> to the uninformed. But all brainstorming welcome! I was thinking lots of 
> stickers and a bit of thoughtfully-smeared dirt.
>
> Thanks in advance!
>
> Eric
>
>

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[RBW] Anyone Else Having Trouble With RBW Group Access on Chrome?

2019-09-13 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Not only can I claim to being just a passable bike mechanic (doesn't stop 
me from creative wrenching), I am just above being a Luddite when it comes 
to internetty things.  Am I the only one having trouble in Chrome accessing 
the RBW Group?  I can access all my other groups just fine in Chrome, and 
obviously I'm not shut out from posting this in Safari.  Just wondering if 
its me only.

Steve Seelig

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[RBW] Re: Roadeo on Cycle Greater Yellowstone 2019

2019-09-13 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Hi Max,

Since nobody else replied, I wanted you to know that you've inspired me to 
check out this ride next year.  The photos cinched it.  I'd be doing it 
most likely on my S coupled Spectrum Ti bike rather than a Riv, mostly 
because I can pack it into a suitcase for airline travel.  My Ram is an 
option also, and although it has a triple chainring it is outfitted with 
Albastache bars and I think (know) I'd want to do this with a drop bar. 
 There's also the notion that lotsa shifting is better done with a brifter.

So here's the big q: is this ride doable without a granny gear using my 
compact double.  If forced to ride out of the saddle for an extended period 
I don't think that adds to a pleasant day.

Any advice based on what others on the trip were using?

Steve Seelig

On Sunday, September 1, 2019 at 1:31:19 PM UTC-4, reynoldslugs wrote:
>
> Hi RBW -
>
> Posted a flickr album of this ride, the Cycle Greater Yellowstone ride, 
> for benefit of the Greater Yellowstone Coalition.
>
> We did about 240 miles over 5 days of riding, 22k climbing.  I rode my 
> Roadeo - always love riding that bike.
>
> Beautiful scenery in Red Lodge, MT; Absarokee; Yellowstone River, Sunlight 
> River and Bridge; Beartooth Pass and Chief Joseph Highway.
>
> The Greater Yellowstone Area around Montana and Wyoming is really lovely. 
> I can't say enough about the scenery, mountains, and good condition of the 
> roads.
>
> Beartooth Pass was hard, but worth it.  The pass tops out close to 11,000' 
> - - I haven't climbed like that since the Markleeville Death ride 8 or 9 
> years ago.
>
> Pics here:
>
> https://www.flickr.com/photos/41563482@N06/albums/72157710643614821
>
> I rode my Roadeo, with a mostly Campagnolo drive train, aided and abetted 
> by a Shimano Deore 737 triple (22-34-44), which was essential to getting 
> over some of those passes. I don't wear that Fat Cyclist jersey for 
> nothing...
>
> best,
>
> Max Beach
> Santa Rosa CA
>

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[RBW] Re: Pedal click driving me batty

2019-07-08 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I recently had a super annoying click on my the titanium bike I'll be 
riding at RAGBRAI.  I reconnected the pedal with lots grease and still have 
the issue.  I didn't think the sealed bearing Shimano SPD pedals were the 
culprit. 

I mentioned this to a rather nice mechanic, who asked me it it was clicking 
when I was standing off the saddle, and I said no.  So we thought it might 
be the Brooks B-17 saddle I use, it being all floppy and such with the 
missing middle.  So I tightened the leather on it and the clicking remained.

Turns out, it was the seatpost connection that was doing the clicking.  
Something about the titanium on the Thompson seatpost, or the seatpost 
connection itself.  Slathered everything up with some (mountains of) grease 
and the clicking is now gone.

Steve Seelig, DC

On Monday, July 8, 2019 at 1:57:49 PM UTC-4, Bill Rhea wrote:
>
> Reaching out in case y'all have any remedies for this phenomena...
>
> So many times I've used a pair of pedals for a while, and then they start 
> making a little click 1x per pedals stroke, usually when putting pressure 
> on the RH pedal. I'm pretty sure I've isolated the click to the pedals 
> themselves, throwing on a new pair and the clicking ceases.
>
> Pedals where I've experienced this phenomena (going back historically):
>
> Sealed-bearing types:
> Thin gripsters (
> https://www.rivbike.com/collections/pedals/products/thin-gripster-pedals-dark-grey-vp-001
> )
> Velo Orange Sabot pedals (
> https://velo-orange.com/collections/pedals/products/grand-cru-sabot-pedals
> )
>
> Traditional bearing / cone type:
> MKS Sneaker pedals (
> https://www.rivbike.com/collections/pedals/products/mks-rmx-sneaker-pedals
> )
> MKS Touring pedals
>
> I don't have access to a bench vise otherwise I would have just cleaned 
> and re-packed the loose ball ones.  I suppose I could get a new bearing set 
> for the Sabot pedals (which I'll likely try).
>
> Am I missing something else that could be causing this click? Open to 
> hearing any possible remedies for this, short of exorcism
>
> Thanks (in advance),
>
> -br
>
>
>

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[RBW] PSA: Made in USA 64cm Atlantis on DC Craiglist

2019-06-07 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Seeing as these are desirable to denizens of this Board, here is the linky: 
https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/bik/d/washington-64-cm-rivendell-atlantis/6903209256.html
  
Way too big for me.

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Re: [RBW] It is summer: updated sandal discussion?

2019-06-06 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
I'm mostly an urban rider with sandals, so my rides are more like 20 miles 
and under.  I'm a big fan of these Keen Arubas 

 because 
they have no back strap to chafe.  Since pedaling without clips is pretty 
much a forward motion, having just the front part as coverage, and pretty 
solid coverage at that, works well for me.

I tend to wear these all the time during summer.  I would say the tread 
lasts a year or so.  After awhile the mid part of the sole tends to get 
softer and softer so that when you step on a rock you can really feel it.  

Steve Seelig, DC

On Thursday, June 6, 2019 at 11:54:40 AM UTC-4, Statrixbob wrote:
>
> I still wear Tevas. Based on the suggestions (Bedrocks and Chacos so far), 
> I'd opt for the Chacos with no toe loop. I generally wear socks with 
> sandals (yeah, I know), especially on long rides where the straps can rub 
> on skin and create problems. With that bit between my toes socks would be 
> out, unless I switched to tabi style socks (with a toe)...which is a 
> thought.
>
> The Tevas I use tend to last a couple of years. They'd probably last 
> longer if I didn't wear them for everything else as well...which reminds 
> me...I need to order a new pair.:-)
>
> Aloha!
>
> On Thu, Jun 6, 2019 at 5:23 AM Neil Doran  > wrote:
>
>> Just read the thread from 2014 - 2016...is it time for an updated sandal 
>> discussion?
>>
>> It's officially summer here in the low foothills, and I'm back to riding 
>> in sandals. My 3-year-old Chacos (with toe loop) are still going strong, 
>> and at this rate they may never die, but I really don't care for the toe 
>> loop.
>>
>> One option is new Chacos without toe loop (had 'em, loved 'em, took about 
>> 10 years to disintegrate). 
>>
>> Also been eyeballing the Bedrock units for a couple o' years now...kinda 
>> like that I could go check them out in person in Richmond and try 'em all 
>> on. They look thinner (and lighter) than Chacos (good!), but wondering if 
>> the toe thong might bug me as much as the Chaco toe loop.
>>
>> What are people wearing these days? My ideal use is on the bike and 
>> around town...bonus points if they would be good for wet-wading while 
>> fishing, and especially if they were light enough to act as camp shoes 
>> while backpacking (I find the Chacos weight-prohibitive for this purpose).
>>
>> -- 
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>> .
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>>
>
>
> -- 
> Robert Harrison
> Honolulu, HI
> rfhar...@gmail.com 
> statrix.com
> Wu Name: Tha Eurythmic King of Nowhere
>

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Re: [RBW] Has Anyone Rinko'd Their Riv? - Follow Up on Yesterday's Rivendell Email

2019-05-25 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Patrick, you brute.  Perhaps the major users of the Rinko MKS are not, 
shall we say, as aggressive in their application.  Though the very idea 
that a pedal can come off without a pedal wrench is so enticing.  

Steve Seelig

On Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 8:39:16 PM UTC-4, Deacon Patrick wrote:
>
> One lad's (my) experience with the Rinko MKS Urban pedals is that within a 
> few months of fixed gear mountain riding I destroyed the attachment bearing 
> so there a large amount of play in the pedal. Standard MKS Urban pedals 
> have held up to a considerable amount of abuse and I am using them on my 
> Gus Boots Willsen as adventure pedals (with MKS toe cage). At least for the 
> riding and torque I love my pedals with, I would just remove my pedals if 
> needed via the allen wrench. Quick, easy, painless. (Worth noting: MKS was 
> great on replacing the pedals ... excellent customer service!).
>
> With abandon,
> Patrick
>

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Re: [RBW] Has Anyone Rinko'd Their Riv? - Follow Up on Yesterday's Rivendell Email

2019-05-25 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
As OP, it is so cool what happens when you spend time away from the 
keyboard.  The goal here is to walk on with the bike, stuff it in the front 
part of the car on the top shelf, get off the train and ride away.  So no 
bike box.

I'm familiar with Amtrak east coast bike transit, and they are very fussy 
about which trains can load bikes.  It is basically the through trains like 
the Vermonter that have a bike car that is combined with the baggage car, 
so it you do it once a year like Bob K, and plan way in advance, it works. 
And those trains have odd hours and at most 4 bikes per train.  Most trains 
don't have em.  Hence the question.  I will say that if you want to take a 
train to Baltimore from DC, every MARC train now has bike hangers, probably 
much like on the West Coaster.  Baltimore is great, "prettiest place on 
earth", but I want more (pun sorta).  Check out Streets of Baltimore 
 by Gram Parsons.  So sad.

Bromptons are great.  We rented them in London - got em out of a box at the 
train station.  But I am at bike limit with wife and all.  To digress, when 
I told her I was getting a tandem bike for me and junior, she fatefully 
asked me the wrong question: "where will you put it."  "the garage has 
plenty of room," I said, and "you only get one question and you neglected 
to ask if I really need another bike."  She probably won't make the same 
mistake twice.

Steve P, right you are about the fender issue.  I'd need to get rid of the 
plastic SKS and get metal ones.  I have the cable disconnects on my S 
bike and like those fine.  They never seem to get out of tune for shifting 
and brakes are less finicky and work.  

Sounds like the major investment would be the headset and the removable 
pedals - thanks for the resource recommendations on those that I am 
checking out now.  Great to have so much knowledge (and opinions) in one 
spot.

Steve Seelig



On Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 7:10:01 PM UTC-4, Deacon Patrick wrote:
>
> Wow, Ana! Fantastic. Tips for convincing them to let me do this should I 
> ever need it?
>
> With abandon,
> Patrick
>

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[RBW] Has Anyone Rinko'd Their Riv? - Follow Up on Yesterday's Rivendell Email

2019-05-24 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
This is where Bicycle Quarterly and Rivendell come together. 

I'm sure many of you are Bicycle Quarterly readers, like me.  I love 
reading especially when their travels involve a Rinko'd bike when they take 
the Japanese bullet train to some far off part of the country and snap the 
bike together once they get off the train - viola.  But those bikes seem 
built specifically for that use, and there is little chance my wife is 
going to let me head to Japan and purchase a custom built one for my use.  
But I am intrigued since I live in DC and Amtrak to other cities actually 
is doable.

BTW: I already have a non-Riv S coupled Spectrum bike that I take on 
plane rides, but that is pain to pack and unpack and then what to do with 
the suitcase on a short trip.

So yesterday's email got me thinking: Why can't I Rinko my Ram and take it 
to NYC next time I travel?  So rather than do actually research, I thought 
I'd ask if folks here have done that, what parts do they use, what are the 
challenges, and exactly how cool is it to have a Rinko'able bike?

Thanks for any responses.

Steve Seelig


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[RBW] Re: What high security locks are people locking their bikes with?

2019-04-27 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Super late to party.  I used to use Pitlocks when they were first devised 
(20 years ago) but found the Pinheads more to my liking.  It looks like the 
Pitlocks have been improved significantly since the first version.  Once 
committed to a the Pinhead approach, it is hard to go back because the cost 
to commonly key several bikes becomes prohibitive.  Happy with the Pitlocks 
but always worried about forgetting the key.

Abus now also has a locking skewer I us on my City (not Country) 
Hillborne.  You can't slide the covering off while the bike is upright, and 
you use a #8 wrench to unlock once the bike is laid on its side.  A slight 
pain to work on because you have to tilt the bike to 90 degrees, with the 
great tradeoff that you can leave your #8 wrench on the bike.  It is of no 
use to anyone unless they've already defeated the lock. 
https://www.abus.com/eng/Mobile-Security/Bike-Safety-and-Security/Locks/NutFix

I use the Granite X folding lock for in-city lockups - mean streets of DC.

On Friday, April 26, 2019 at 3:58:30 PM UTC-4, Benz, Sunnyvale, CA wrote:
>
> On Friday, April 26, 2019 at 10:34:57 AM UTC-7, Cinza wrote:
>>
>>
>>
>> On Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 12:06:32 PM UTC-7, Cinza wrote:
>>>
>>> I just found out the Kryptonite lock with a barrel key is easy for 
>>> thieves as of late. 
>>>  What locks do you like and why? 
>>>
>>>
>>>
> What did the wise say? Something along the lines of the lock and bike 
> weights always add up to 40* pounds? :) 
>
> ** For iBobs, maybe 50 pounds, what with all our tweed bags, fenders and 
> steel filet-brazed handlebar-stem combos.*
>

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[RBW] Re: Cargo e-bikes are an amazing concept, but the options are imperfect

2019-03-18 Thread 'Steven Seelig' via RBW Owners Bunch
Late to party.

We were among the first to get the Xtracycle Edgerunner, and it was fun to 
be stared at riding through DC as some sort of clown wagon, before such 
things became the norm.  While you may find the ride to be weird, harsh, 
plowy, etc., the simple fact is that you will be hauling moving kids on the 
back of a bike.  Not much to say except that the bike needs to maintain its 
integrity under a wide variety of conditions so to expect a road bike 
aesthetic like a Riv is not in the cards.

Consider that the Xtracycle has a 20 inch rear wheel, which means the kids 
are lower to the ground, the wheel is stronger and that it may be easier to 
accelerate from a stop.  Or at least that was the consideration I made when 
getting the non-electric version.

Also consider that Xtracycle provides tremendous customer service, or at 
least they did for me.  When my first generation center stand wore out, I 
expressed sadness about the prior design and joy about the new version to 
the customer service rep.  She immediately offered to send me the new style 
center stand for free, mostly because they improved upon the old design and 
believed that as an early adopter, I should get the benefit of that 
improvement.  I cannot over emphasize how important having a stable center 
stand will be for using the bike, and would assure you that not having that 
so the bike can sit by itself with a kid on it and not fall over is 
REQUIRED.

The rear rack system works pretty great with the hooptie for two kids.

Finally, because this was a non-electric version I bought, I cannot comment 
on the Bosch although I hear it is great.  I did install an aftermarket 
mid-drive motor as my kid got bigger and my legs failed to keep pace.  They 
do come in different sizes, BTW.

On Saturday, March 16, 2019 at 10:26:31 PM UTC-4, Kolby wrote:
>
> Hi all, 
>
> Looking for some help/feedback on the topic of cargo e-bikes -- not 
> specifically whether they are a good idea or not, but about specific 
> designs currently out there and what I should be looking for. Here's the 
> background:
>
> I'm soon moving from Brooklyn to Austin, and as I'll need a second car I 
> figured I might finally get that cargo bike I've always wanted instead. I 
> have two younger kids and will likely have a commute of 15ish miles daily. 
>
> As soon as I started looking around, I quickly realized that Bosch motors 
> are taking over the Cargo category. Even though I'd never ridden an e-bike, 
> this made sense to me. I mean, it's kinda fun hauling my kid, my gear, and 
> myself up hills on my Atlantis, but sometimes it's just joyless drudgery 
> and I'd rather be driving. So the ebike was interesting. (Several test 
> rides later and I think it's probably the best hope of getting most people 
> out of cars and onto bikes, but that's another topic! :))
>
> So I started looking at the options. It just so happens that Surly released 
> a cargo e-bike this month : The 
> Big Easy, which carries 400 pounds and goes 20 mph.
>
> My LBS had a Big Easy for test rides, so I took it out. After 30 mins I 
> was having so much fun I called to say I need another 30 mins at least. I 
> went all over my neighborhood, and on "trails" in Prospect Park. I put an 
> adult friend on the back and we easily cruised up a hill at 15 mph. It was 
> a total blast, and it had a great ride and feel in all situations--it felt 
> like one of my own. It was kind of a bone shaker, but softer tires with 
> less air would fix that, I figured.
>
> Then I started looking closer at the Surly, and I disappointment set in: 
> the kickstand isn't a double (really!?), it uses quick releases instead of 
> thru axles on a bike that hauls 400 pounds (this seems unwise, right?), and 
> the extra battery is under the bottom bracket for some reason. Even more 
> annoying, Surly, true to the name, doesn't make it easy to add a kid seat 
> or lights. That would be understandable if it were cheaper, but it's $5k -- 
> the same price as the Xtracycle eswoop and the Tern CSD, both of which come 
> with lights, fenders, etc and assume you'll likely be adding a kid seat or 
> something else like that. 
>
> Annoyed, I took the Tern and Xtracycle out for rides, but ... both had a 
> terrible ride quality IMO. I wouldn't enjoy either on a daily or even semi 
> regular basis. Mostly it's due to the fact that they only come in one size, 
> which of course just doesn't work. (The Surly comes in S, M, L.)
>
> Lastly, I took a look out a Riese and Muller (front bucket style). 
> Specifically, the Load and Packster models. They are quite expensive 
> ($7k+), however they're available used for about the price of the Surly and 
> others. They have suspension and the ride is both unfamiliar but also very 
> stable and buttery smooth. The downside of the Riese seems to be all the 
> moving parts that make the magic happen, or so it seems to me -- more 
> potential points of failure.