[RBW] Re: (re-introducing) Amelia Homer Hilsen

2024-03-17 Thread SeanMac
What a beautiful bike.  Glad it is working better for you.  Looks like you 
had a great ride destination!

What do you have those bars wrapped with?  

Sean
EA, NY

On Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 1:06:52 AM UTC-4 eitanz...@gmail.com wrote:

> Thanks to everyone's suggestions for shortening the reach on my new 
> A(melia) Homer Hilsen.
>
>  The 26mm diameter and silver finish requirements limited handlebar 
> choices considerably, but I ended up going with Liz' suggestion for Soma 
> Highway One bars, paired with 10mm shorter quill. The bike fits SO MUCH 
> better now.  Rode for almost 4 hours yesterday with nary a shoulder, neck, 
> nor arm twinge. 
>
> ** Why Amelia?
> 1) The "A" has to stand for something.
> 2) I've always been fond of the name, but S.O. nixed it from the baby name 
> list--a diagreement mooted when she gave birth to a son.
> 3) I always felt that bicycles, like ships, should be named after women, 
> cats, or felonies. 
>
> Wish the pic could capture Amelia's subtle but elegant butternut sparkle:
> [image: IMG_3578 (2).jpeg]
>
> New bars a much better fit for my body. However, I hadn't realized how 
> much longer the drop part of the  bar would be than on the now-replaced 
> Noodle, or maybe it's the shorter stem, or maybe both, but my knees will 
> sometimes graze shifters when popping up out of a seated position. 
> [image: IMG_3581 (2).jpeg]
>
> [image: IMG_3582 (2).jpeg]
>
> --Eitan in Marina Del Rey
>
>

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Re: [RBW] Re: Platypus or Clem - Please help me choose

2024-01-08 Thread SeanMac
Hey everyone.  Wanted to take a moment to close the loop on this 
conversation.  Earlier today, after much discussion, my wife and I ordered 
a Platypus!  She snagged a web special - 50 cm in Sergio Green with a 
triple crank and a Billie Bar.  She [we] nearly pulled the trigger on a 
purple complete.  However, for a few hundred extra dollars the build put 
together by Antonio seems to be the smarter purchase.  

All that is left to do now is order a saddle.  I am going to measure the 
width of a saddle that she has the she likes and decide where to go from 
there.  Most likely will be a Brooks (B-17 or B-68) or a Rivet (Loveland).  
Any thoughts?  I've tried a few Brooks, and currently have a B-17 on my 
Cheviot and a Berthoud Aspin on my Black Mountain Cycles Road Bike.  I've 
read a few good comments about Rivet, but never seen or ridden on one 
myself.

Thanks you all for your suggestions.  They all helped with the 
decision-making process.

Sean

On Friday, January 5, 2024 at 4:09:09 PM UTC-5 krhe...@gmail.com wrote:

> My 52cm Clem Smith Jr L bicycle is my one and only favorite bike. I cannot 
> see myself on any other Rivendell bicycle.
>
> My old road bike has long been retired and no interest in riding it.
>
> Kim Hetzel.
>
> On Fri, Jan 5, 2024, 12:21 PM Johnny Alien  wrote:
>
>> I would also add that if someone forced me to get rid of one Rivendell 
>> and live with just one bike it would be the Clem. I think it is the most 
>> RIvendell bike ever in spirit. A cushy ride that will go anywhere and is 
>> not too fancy. Thankfully no one has made me make that choice.
>>
>> On Friday, January 5, 2024 at 3:19:08 PM UTC-5 Johnny Alien wrote:
>>
>>> I stick by letting her pick. She is currently riding a 30 year old Trek 
>>> hybrid so either one will fit her riding conditions. If she doesn't want to 
>>> spend the extra cash then the Clem is a fantastic pick. I love mine and 
>>> personally wouldn't trade it for another Riv (noting that I have a lighter 
>>> RIvendell as well). But if they both work the only thing in the world that 
>>> matters is that she likes it. Why talk her into the more expensive ride if 
>>> the Clem will fit the conditions and she likes it?
>>>
>>> On Friday, January 5, 2024 at 7:10:21 AM UTC-5 Garth wrote:
>>>
 Obviously the Platy requires more material and labor for the extended 
 mid tube. Bicycles are long term investments though, so letting a few 
 hundred dollars get it in the way hardly qualifies as a valid reason to 
 dismiss something base don that alone. Get the one that is appealing to 
 look at every day. 

 From my own subjective view, the Platypus has an appealing elegance to 
 it with the extended swooping mid tube. Plus the purple accentuates it 
 very 
 well, of which direct sunlight will enhance it even more. 

 Complete or build your own depends on if the included parts are 
 agreeable or not. If you have nothing specific to change then they're 
 fine. 

 The Clem has a notably longer frame reach than the Platypus, which may 
 only be noticed if you have both. The Platy with it's 50mm max tires is 
 plenty for the type of riding Sean suggested. 




 On Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 8:15:46 PM UTC-5 Bicycle Belle Ding 
 Ding! wrote:

>  I have weighed in on that thread that was quoted, but I’ll chime in 
> again because my name got mentioned.
>
>  I had both bikes, loved both bikes. But the Platypus is the better 
> fit for me. I like to ride pavement and I do like to go fast, and that’s 
> the sweet spot for a Platy. And, it fits me like a GLOVE. The wife in 
> question doesn’t seem to have a preference, save that she doesn’t want to 
> blow the budget. I surmise the OP would like to choose a bike that his 
> wife 
> might fall in love with and wish to ride more often. The Platy complete 
> is 
> a great deal, and if she’s a 50, they are in stock. And like Pam said, 
> let 
> her choose the color. If she falls in love with the bike you can get the 
> parts she wants later. 
>
> Oh, and give her a special little ornament of some sort. A charm she 
> can hang or an enameled pin to put on her bag. Thoughtful details make us 
> fall in love with the gifts our men give us. 
>
> Leah
>
> On Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 6:55:39 PM UTC-5 krhe...@gmail.com 
> wrote:
>
>> ...or if you get a Clem, you are welcome to join the Clem Club.
>>
>> Kim Hetzel.
>>
>> On Thu, Jan 4, 2024, 8:38 AM Ben Compton  wrote:
>>
>>> also if you get a platypus you get to join the platypals, which is a 
>>> thing I just made up
>>>
>>> On Thu, Jan 4, 2024 at 8:51 AM Sarah Carlson  
>>> wrote:
>>>
 Yes, did you know when you you get your lady a Riv she has an 
 immediate community of RivSisters? Pam has brought up the most 

Re: [RBW] Re: Platypus or Clem - Please help me choose

2024-01-02 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for all of your responses to my request for information.  I am very 
grateful.  Steve - your Platypus is gorgeous!  Is the terrain in that 
picture typical of the kind of riding?

Sarah and Al - you have kind of hit my dilemma.  I have really enjoyed the 
opportunity to bike with my wife, and I hope to do more of it in the 
future.  I want her to fall in love with a bike - and I think the Platypus 
may do that.  However, as she is not [yet] a bike person, the price tag is 
a bit of a stumbling block.  Joyce, you are very kind to offer test rides.  
I wish that were an easy option.  My Cheviot is much to big for her, so my 
wife can see it, but not actually ride the bike.  Al - I think that she 
would be happy with either bike, and that either a Clem or Platypus would 
serve her well.  It is difficult to know which will bring the biggest smile 
to her fact - which is, of course, the ultimate goal.

Kim - thank you for the link to the earlier discussion about this topic.  I 
searched the list, but did not do as well as you. 

Thanks for giving us lots to think about.

Best -
Sean

On Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 4:34:44 PM UTC-5 krhe...@gmail.com wrote:

> I decided to weigh my Clem without my rear trunk bag. My bike weighs 32 
> lbs with all of four of my empty water bottles and cages, rear rack, 
> fenders and frame pump. 
>
> Kim Hetzel.
>
> On Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 8:48:30 AM UTC-8 Kim H. wrote:
>
>> I, too, own a 52cm blue Clem Smith Jr L bicycle. For the record, I run 
>> 27.5x2.25mm Racing Ralph tires with Honjo Flat 65 fenders with no problem.
>>
>> I see my Clem as a A. T. B. It's capable of riding on pavement and off 
>> road. The bike is very stable with it's long wheelbase. It is a heavy bike. 
>> My bike weighs 44 lbs with my Topeak trunk bag full of my tools and 
>> necessities. Despite the weight, I compensate for it very well by having 
>> low gears (34/20T rings and a 9 speed cassette 11-40T)
>>
>> As a senior cyclist, I love the low bar for easy mounting and dismount 
>> and the upright riding position.
>>
>> The 52cm frame works very well for me being 5'11" with a long torso and 
>> short limbs. I weigh in at 220 lbs.
>>
>> Kim Hetzel.
>>
>> On Tue, Jan 2, 2024, 8:20 AM Patrick Moore  wrote:
>>
>>> I meant to add: if a 59 cm Clem can take true 622X60s I might just give 
>>> up trying to find a Monocog replacement and get a Clem for sandy train 
>>> riding -- we'll see. Next installment: weird non-deraileur drivetrains for 
>>> a Clem.
>>>
>>> On Tue, Jan 2, 2024 at 9:18 AM Patrick Moore  wrote:
>>>
 Al: Can you clarify what you mean by "more utilitarian"? 

 I keep a Clem in mind as a future purchase, and for my use, if the 
 difference with the Platypus is largely cosmetic, I'd choose the more 
 utilitarian model *if the ride is as good or better.* 

 Also, while I've asked this before, I keep forgetting. Riv designs the 
 59 cm model for "29 inch" tires but the build option page offers 45 mm 
 Kendas (iirc) and 45s are good mostly on pavement in my area. How fat at 
 700C *knobby tire* can the Clem take without fenders? How fat a 700C 
 *slick 
 tire?* Can it take 700C X 60 mm Big Ones?



 On Tue, Jan 2, 2024 at 8:48 AM a spen  wrote:

> ... The Clem feels more utilitarian to my riding sensibilities.
>

>>>
>>> -- 
>>>
>>> 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.*
>>>
>>> -- 
>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to a topic in the 
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>>>  
>>> 
>>> .
>>>
>>

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[RBW] Platypus or Clem - Please help me choose

2024-01-01 Thread SeanMac
Hi everyone.  Happy New Year!

I am the proud owner of a grey Cheviot.  One of the reasons that I 
purchased that bike was to ride on bike trails near me (such as the Erie 
Canal Trail) with my wife.  She and I have done a bit of riding together.  
However, as I am a more experienced cyclists, she sometimes gets frustrated 
with me.  Happily, riding my Cheviot has helped me to slow down and enjoy 
the ride with her.

My wife has been riding a Trek hybrid bike that is at least 30 years old.  
I would love for her to get something new for our rides together.  She is 
on-board with this idea (much to my delight).  A new Rivendell seems to be 
just the ticket to more quality bike time - for her alone and for us 
together.  The question, of course, is which model would be the best choice.

Given that I have a Cheviot, a Platypus for her was my first suggestion.  I 
sense that it rides pretty similarly to my Cheviot - plush, stable and 
relatively quick once it gets going.  However, my wife was a bit surprised 
by the price tag of the Platty, and began to focus on the Clem.  When she 
asked why the Clem was less expensive I spoke about the lugs, but didn't 
know what else really differentiated the two bikes.  This is why I am 
reaching out to the group.

I would be grateful if folks on the list who are familiar with both the 
Clem and Platypus would provide some additional insight into the 
differences between the two models.  I think that either bike would meet my 
wife's needs.  However, thoughts on which would best meet those needs are 
much appreciated.

Thanks,
Sean
Buffalo, NY

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Re: [RBW] Berthoud Aspin - To cutout, or not to cutout?

2020-11-09 Thread SeanMac
I have used both of the Aspin models.  I started with the standard model.  
It was quite hard and took some time to break-in.  However, I ended up 
being very happy with it.  However, after using it for a few years, some 
health concerns made me decide to give the Aspin cutout model (Berthoud, I 
believe, refers to it as "open").  I used the cutout this season.  At 
first, the Open model felt noticeably more "flexible" than the standard 
saddle.  However, after a short period of adjustment, I stopped noticing 
the differences between the models.  Quite honestly, I still have the 
standard model sitting on a shelf in my basement "just in case" I decide to 
try it again or on a different bike.  However, I am pretty happy with the 
Berthoud Open and will likely keep it on my Black Mountain Cycles Road bike.

Sean
East Aurora, NY

On Monday, November 9, 2020 at 6:17:06 PM UTC-5 Sam Perez wrote:

> ive had the B17 and B17 imperial and just purchased the aspin a few weeks 
> ago, so far it's  still hard but not uncomfortable. a side by side I felt 
> that the B17 was more comfortable  after a few rides. B17 is a bit wider 
> than the aspin and that makes it initially not noticeable under you. 
> another thing is the B17 and B17 imperial feel different, the imperial cut 
> out feels softer. the aspin is starting to show crease  wrinkles where my 
> sit bones indent but no permanent indentation yet. ill share when put more 
> miles on it, curious about the cut out as well.
>
> On Mon, Nov 9, 2020 at 2:49 PM Sean B.  wrote:
>
>> Hello,
>>
>> I'm thinking about replacing my B17 Special and was looking at the Gilles 
>> Berthoud Aspin Open Saddle. Has anyone had and positive/negative 
>> experiences with them?  
>>
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>>  
>> 
>> .
>>
>

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[RBW] Re: daily post ur riv

2020-03-08 Thread SeanMac
Love this.  My Cheviot is typically used as a "grocery getter."  Your photo 
has me thinking that I need to take it out on the trails and get it good 
and dirty!

Sean
Buffalo, NY

On Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 8:29:22 AM UTC-4, Stephen W. wrote:
>
> My Cheviot on the trail...
>
>

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[RBW] Helmets (again)

2019-09-18 Thread SeanMac
I certainly do not want to start (another) helmet war, however I recently 
stumbled on an interesting article in the Washington Post about helmets and 
cycling injuries

Only 22 percent of bicyclists in severe accidents were wearing helmets. 


The story is rather short, but this is the key line to me:

"Bicyclists who were wearing helmets when accidents occurred generally had 
less severe injuries, spent less time hospitalized, including shorter stays 
in intensive care, and were less likely to have died as a result of the 
accident, according to researchers’ analysis of the data 
, 
published in the journal Brain Injury."

Sean
Buffalo, NY

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[RBW] Cheviot Wool Sweater Preorder - Anyone In?

2019-09-15 Thread SeanMac
Howdy,

Grant wrote about this a few blahgs ago.  I am intrigued, but a bit 
hesitant to put down $120 without having some idea of the style of the 
sweater that is being produced.  At the same time, I love the color, and 
the concept.  I also remember that Grant did a collection of wool sweaters 
a few years ago that I skipped, but in hindsight wish I had purchased.

Anyway, here is a link to the sweater:  Cheviot Wool Sweater Preorder 


If you have placed your order I would love to know your reasoning for doing 
so.

If any of you remember the previous wool sweaters that Riv. produced, do 
you recall if that was done on a pre-order basis as well?  I'm curious what 
might happen to the price of this sweater after the pre-order period has 
ended.

Anyway, thanks for your thoughts.

Sean
Buffalo, NY

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[RBW] Hand-Cranked Coffee Grinder Recommendation

2019-04-21 Thread SeanMac
Hi all,

I will be living in a hotel for three weeks this summer.  As a coffee geek, 
the thought of being forced to drink hotel coffee during this time is a bit 
frightening.  Rather than hopping in a car and driving to a coffee shop, my 
plan is to put together an on-the-go coffee kit that can be used for this 
hotel stay -- as well as future hotel visits and on-the-bike / coffee 
outside adventures.

I've pretty much decided that the AeroPress coffee kit is going to be my 
go-to coffee maker.  As I will be staying alone, I am after quality of 
coffee rather than volume.  In addition, this seems to provide reasonable 
easy hotel room clean-up, which also seems pretty important.

I did some searching on the coffee outside threads on this group and found 
several coffee grinders that are often spoke of.  One of them, the Porlex 
Mini, is currently available for about $65. 
Porlex Mini 


Some searching also led to some positive comments for a much less expensive 
JavaPresse grinder ($26)  
JavaPresse 


I'm not opposed to spending money to obtain a quality product.  I am just 
trying to decide if the extra cost of the Porlex grinder is worth it in 
this particular situation.

Any thoughts / comments / recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Re: Need help with front derailleur adjustment

2019-03-30 Thread SeanMac
Joe -- Thanks for looking at my pics.

The picture that caught your attention, the one with the cable bowing out, 
is showing what happens when I try to shift into the large cog (yeah - its 
not really that big).  When the chain is on the small ring, the housing 
lays flat against the cork.

I will play around with the limit screws a bit more.  That may be part of 
the issue.  What I believe is also happening is that rather than moving the 
derailleur when I move the shifter, the housing is flexing / bowing out as 
shown in the photo.  

What is strange to me is that everything on the other side of the handlebar 
works fine.  The rear derailleur shift well - no problem at all with the 
cable or the cable housing.  

Sean 

On Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 3:08:02 PM UTC-4, Joe Bernard wrote:
>
> Oh my bad, you already looked at the limit screws. 

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[RBW] Need help with front derailleur adjustment

2019-03-30 Thread SeanMac
Hi all,

I'm finally getting around to one of my winter bike projects.  I've got a 
Cheviot with albatross bars and bar-end shifters.  I noticed at the end of 
last year that there were sharp wire fragments hitting my fingers when i 
shifted the front lever.  To me, it looked like the derailleur cable had 
somehow started to fray - perhaps from friction between the shifter and the 
housing.   It seemed odd, but possible.

In any event, I ordered new cable that I attempted to install earlier this 
morning.  When taking out the old cable, I noticed that it was not the 
cable that had frayed.  Rather, what I believed to be frayed cable was 
actually the inside of the cable housing.  I cut out the bad section of 
housing, and went about installing the new cable.

When I got everything back together, I noticed even after playing with the 
adjustment screws I was having a hard time getting the chain to jump up to 
the large chain-ring. (using Sugino XD2 wide-low double).  After playing 
around a bit I noticed what may be the problem.  Here is where I need some 
help.

My cheviot has albatross bars, using Meisha's cork grips.  I noticed that 
when I was trying to shift into the large chain-ring, that the derailleur 
cable was flexing near the very end of the cork grip - just before the grip 
met the shifter.  For those of you who have this set-up, there is a grooved 
area where the cable and housing is supposed to run.  I'm all set - 
lined-up perfectly with that.  There is also an area designed for twine; 
wrapping twine around the cable housing and grip.  I've done that and 
varnished it up.  What I am finding is that the cable and housing is 
flexing (bowing-out) in the space between this twined-area and the spot 
where the grip meets the shifter.  I am thinking that this flexing is at 
the root of both my shifting difficulty and the fraying of my cable housing.

Do you think I have correctly diagnosed the issue?  If so, any suggestions 
about how to fix it?  My first thought is that perhaps the housing is a bit 
too long, and that if I cut the housing so that it is a bit shorter it 
might be a bit stiffer overall and not need to flex.

The cable and housing was all purchased from Rivendell, if that matters.  
Are there stiffer cable housings available that might work better?

All suggestions are appreciated.

Sean
Buffalo, NY

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[RBW] Adventure Cyclist Holiday Book Suggestions - with a Joe Appa & Sackville Display

2018-12-01 Thread SeanMac
Hi everyone,

I did a quick search, but this topic did not come up.  Sorry if its a 
repeat.

The other day, the Adventure Cyclists eDigest featured a list of holiday 
book recommendations.  There are some interesting books on the list.  I 
invite you all to take a look.

What makes this reading list really stand-out among other such list is a 
series of photos of the books.  The books are photographed in a series of 
shots lying on Rivendell Sackville bags attached to a Joe Appaloosa!  

Here is a link - Adventure Cycling Holiday Book Recommendations 


Enjoy

Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Re: Ride Report: Buffalo to Albany on the Erie Canal

2018-08-23 Thread SeanMac
Tim,

I loved reading your story about your Erie Canal trip.  I do wish that the 
story had ended on a happier note.  On the whole, however, it sounded like 
the ride had more highlights than low-lights.  Still, based on my own 
experiences, that tough last night would be a lingering bummer.  You will 
have to make the trip next year!

I live about 20 miles south-east of Buffalo.  A few years ago my son and I, 
along with a number of boys in his Boy Scout troops, rode from Lockport to 
Albany.  The first few days were awesome (yes - Holley is a great place to 
camp).  However, after that it rained like crazy.  There were large 
sections of the trail that were closed due to flooding of the Mohawk 
River.  This led to some difficult moments (and lots of mosquitoes), but 
also made the trip an even bigger adventure.  

If I recall correctly, we took seven days to do the trip (the majority of 
the boys were approximately 15 years old and were not well-trained 
cyclists).  We averaged approximately 30-35 miles the first few days.  
However, on the last day we did approximately 70 miles.  The kids were 
amazed by how far they rode that day!

I hope to do the trip again some day.  In the past I rode an early 90s Trek 
520.  Next time, I plan to take my Cheviot.

Thanks, again, for sharing your story.  

Sean
EA, NY

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Re: [RBW] Re: Orange Roadini

2018-08-23 Thread SeanMac
What a great looking bike.

I'd love to hear how you feel about running it with the Jack Browns.  I am 
in the market for some new rubber for my Bob Brown Road Bike and am torn 
between Compass 32's (whatever they are named) and the Jack Browns.  I've 
been running the bike with an old pair of Grand Bois Cerf Extra Ledger -- 
love the way they roll but getting a bit tired of picking gravel out of 
them.

Sean
EA, NY

On Thursday, August 23, 2018 at 6:07:02 PM UTC-4, Joe Bernard wrote:
>
> Mo pics. New Jack Browns mounted cuz the Compasses I had were too out of 
> round..too many days sitting flat on the Pashley, I think. No front 
> derailer at the moment and it may stay that way, I'm leaning towards 
> running as a 1x8. A black saddle may go back on, that natural-finish B17 is 
> pretty much honey color now, it's a little orangey on an orange bike to my 
> eye. It's a great bike, check it out!
>
> https://photos.app.goo.gl/EsagRxDm4joDXNv77
>
> Joe Bernard
>
>

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Re: [RBW] New Bike Day!

2018-07-10 Thread SeanMac
Wow!  Beautiful bike, Rusty.  Enjoy it!  I sure hope that your ride put a 
bike smile on your face!

Sean

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[RBW] Re: Cheviot and Ottolock

2018-07-10 Thread SeanMac
Very cool pictures, Jim.  Thanks for sharing them with the group.

I've got a grey Cheviot in my stable that I love riding.  It functions 
mainly as my bike-trail and grocery store bike.  

Do you like the Ottolock?  I've been thinking about getting one for my 
Cheviot - though I had not considered matching it to the bike and/or cables.

Sean


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[RBW] Re: New Frame Day! Almost a trade of a Black Mountain Road for a LEO

2018-05-23 Thread SeanMac
Bill,

I have a Black Mountain Road bike that I love.  It is my go-to bike for 
going out for a 1 - 4 hour ride on the road for fun or to "train."  I 
really look forward to hearing your thoughts about how your new Leo 
compares to your BMC road. . . . Oh, and pictures (of course)!

Sean
East Aurora, NY


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[RBW] Bags for light touring on my Cheviot - Sackville BackaBike

2017-12-27 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

As the year is coming to an end, my thoughts are moving forward -- planning 
for some quality riding with my son (19 years old) next summer.

He and I rode the Erie Canal Trail together a few years ago.  We are 
contemplating a similar ride in 2018 - somewhere in New York, Ohio, Penna 
or Southern Ontario.  He will be riding my 1991/92 Trek 520.  I'll be 
riding my 60cm Cheviot. Though he is much younger, I am a stronger 
cyclists.  As a result, I will be carrying more of the load.  We will 
likely be out for 3 - 5 days.  Camping most of the time, but likely nicer 
lodging on the first and last days of the ride.  I'm trying to figure out 
how to best outfit my Cheviot for this endeavor (and grocery-getting duties 
on non-tour days).

I currently have a medium Sackville Saddlesack on my Cheviot.  In the near 
future, I will be adding a Wald basket (medium, most likely, to sit on my 
Mark's rack).  I also have an old Baggins saddle-sack, which I think will 
be cool to use as a handlebar bag.  Given all of this, I think that a set 
of rear bags would leave me all-set for almost anything.  I've got my eye 
on the Sackville Backabike rear bag.  From what I have read, people seem to 
be very happy with these bags.  Am I correct in my opinion that these bags 
would work equally well as gear-carrying bags on a shortish tour, and also 
work to carry bags from the grocery store?

I remember that Rivendell once carried a bag that was designed as a rear 
pannier - I believe that it was called a Tour Sack.  Is the Backabike bag a 
replacement?  If so, how are they different?  Will the backabike likely 
meet my needs or should I be looking for something else?

Thanks,
Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Re: Adam's Chev on the BLUG

2017-12-25 Thread SeanMac

Great looking bike, Adam.

I've got a 60 cm in grey that I built up over the summer.  It is used as a 
grocery getter and a trail rider.  With winter firmly in place in western 
New York, I've got the bike in the basement so that I can make a few 
modifications.  I currently have a Mark's rack on the bike and an Ostrich 
handlebar bag.  However, I would like to replace the bag with a Wald 
basket.  However, I am struggling to decide whether to get the medium or 
the huge Wald basket.  

What rack / basket combo is on your Cheviot?  Do you have any issues with 
the brake / shift cables getting in the way of the basket?

Thanks for the information.  I'd love to hear suggestions / recommendations 
from the group.

Sean
EA, NY


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[RBW] Re: What do Rivendell riders use for GPS computers?

2017-08-25 Thread SeanMac
I also use the paid version of Cyclometer.  In addition to the benefits 
that Ty spelled out, I believe that the paid version also tracks the 
weather conditions during each ride - temperature, wind speed and direction 
and humidity.  I actually find this information to be interesting.  
Besides, as I recall, the cost of accessing the "Elite" version is only 
about $10 per year.  I figure that this is a pretty small investment for an 
app that I utilize on a frequent basis (and one that is updated fairly 
regularly.

Sean,
Buffalo, NY


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[RBW] Tires for Cheviot with VO Zeppelin Fenders - Compass or Soma

2017-06-05 Thread SeanMac
Hi all,

I've finally pulled my 60cm grey Cheviot out of the box and started 
attaching parts.  Hopefully everything will be in place soon and I can take 
it out for a ride.

A few days ago I ordered a set of 52mm Zeppelin fenders from Velo Orange.  
Now I am ready to order some tires.  I was all set to order the Compass 
Barlow Pass tires based on all of the positive comments that I have read on 
the list.  Then, after doing some research, I came across Soma's Supple 
Vitesse tire, which seems fairly similar to the Compass tires.  The bonus 
(perhaps) for me, is that the Soma tire is available in either 38mm to 
match the Barlow Pass, or in 42mm - which would be a nice match for my 
Zeppelin fenders.

I'm wondering if anyone has experience with the Soma tires and, if so, 
would be willing to provide some comparisons between them and the Compass 
tires.

Link to Soma tires:  Soma Supple Vitesse EX tires 


I will be mounting the tires to Mavic A 719 rims.  The brakes I am using 
are Tektro R 559.

For the most part, the Cheviot will be used as an 'round town bike - a 
"grocery getter" as my wife likes to call it.  However, I anticipate that 
it will be used on local bike paths and (perhaps) for some longer rides / 
light touring -- perhaps even on the Erie Canal bike path (stone dust and 
dirt, as well as paved areas.

Thanks for your thoughts on which tire will serve me best.  I am looking 
for something that will be dependable, fun & comfortable to ride, and 
relatively unlikely to flat on a regular basis.

Thanks,

Sean
East Aurora, NY

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[RBW] Re: 60cm Cheviot Owner Questions: Which Hitch-mounted Bike Racks Work & Largest Tire Width With Fenders

2017-05-27 Thread SeanMac
I have a 60 cm Cheviot frame that I have yet to take out of the box.  
Reading this thread has got me thinking about fenders.  Are the 52mm 
Zeppelin's sold by Velo Orange the largest fenders that will fit on this 
bike, or could I go up to the 63mm size?  Obviously, if they fit, the wider 
fenders would allow wider tires - such as the 44mm Snoqualmie Pass - to be 
used without a problem?

I've already purchased brakes (the Tektro R559 as I recall).  With this 
brakes, would it be best to get the 52mm Zeppelin's and go with the 38mm 
Barlow Pass tires.

Having options is fun, but also maddening sometimes.

Sean

On Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at 3:40:05 PM UTC-4, Howard Hatten wrote:
>
> Single brakes can be bought from Paul Components 
>
> Howard
>

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[RBW] Re: New Cheviot build shakedown ride

2017-02-06 Thread SeanMac
Great looking bike.  For me, however, the pictures of your orange Cheviot 
are upside down.  Still looks great, just hard to ride it that way!

Sean

On Monday, February 6, 2017 at 2:37:13 PM UTC-5, panog wrote:
>
> Thanks. Good to know! The "no-tool" approach is what sparked my interest 
> on these hubs. Your 1.5 years of use w/o maintenance under mixed 
> conditions, assuming average mileage use, is pretty good on anyone's 
> standards. I repack my cup and cone on my commuter every 6 months or so but 
> not because they need it. When its time to be serviced they (the hubs) will 
> let you know as those pawls in them will become louder.
>
> On Monday, February 6, 2017 at 2:00:40 PM UTC-5, A. Nostuh wrote:
>>
>> I ride in the rain and also lock my bike up outside at work and it gets 
>> rained on more than a good bike should. They (the hubs) are easy to 
>> disassemble with out any tools. I'm pretty lazy about maintenance so I 
>> haven't bothered to do anything with them yet but when I decide to I know 
>> it couldn't be any easier. That said, I don't claim to be knowledgeable 
>> about hubs so I may have missed something. But certainly no complaints 
>> after 1.5 years on them. 
>>  Of course any Compass tire will have very low rolling resistance and 
>> it's smart to have built in room to grow (just in case). I just ordered 
>> some snowqualmie tires for the Chevy-ut and then I need to figure out the 
>> fender-brake combo that will make it all work. I saw another guys on here 
>> had a similar build so I will have to copy what he did. 
>>The snakeskin fenders greatly look awesome on any bike. They are 
>> bike-bling
>
>

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Re: [RBW] Re: RAWLANDS PORTEUR RACK INSTALLED ON CHEVIOT

2017-02-04 Thread SeanMac

Thanks for sharing your pictures.  I'm in the process of gathering the odds 
and ends for my Cheviot build.  I ordered one of the recently produced grey 
models, but have yet to take it out of the box.  Anyway, I'm intrigued by 
your photos.  Why did you choose to go with the Rawlands rack?  I've had my 
eye on one of the Soma porteur racks - I particularly like the Soma Deluxe 
Porteur rack, but I wonder how well it will play with the side pull brakes 
that I plan to use on my Cheviot.

I would love to hear comments / see pictures if anyone has installed a Soma 
Porteur rack on a Cheviot.  It seems like going with a porteur rack would 
provide much more support than something like a Mark's rack with a Wald 
basket.  Anyway - love to hear what others have experienced.

Sean
East Aurora, NY

>
>> On Thursday, February 2, 2017 at 6:45:33 PM UTC-5, Jon Dukeman,central 
>> Colorado wrote:
>>>
>>> Installed the Rawlands rack on my Cheviot that has a front Dia Comp 750 
>>> center pull brake and P50 fenders.
>>> Rack Load Rated @ 10kg or 22lbs.
>>> There is about the thickness of a human hair between the rack mount and 
>>> head set.Plenty of room for brake. Works great!
>>> Wald basket decisions to be made soon.
>>> Jon
>>>
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>
>

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[RBW] Re: Wow the new grey Cheviots are gorgeous!!!

2016-09-18 Thread SeanMac
Clayton,

As I eagerly await the arrival of my grey Cheviot, I continue to 
contemplate the last details of the build.  Everything is in place except 
for the wheels and tires.  I've yet to try any of the Compass tires, but I 
am intrigued by the new Snoqualmie Pass tires.  I would love to hear your 
thoughts on the ride that those tires provide on your Cheviot.

Thanks,
Sean
EA, NY

On Saturday, September 17, 2016 at 10:50:26 AM UTC-4, Clayton.sf wrote:
>
> It is neat that they changed some details even for the orange. Mine is all 
> orange. New ones have cream accents. Both are nice.
>
> Just put some new Snoqualmie pass tires on mine. The ride now is even 
> amazinger! Truly a sheep with wings.
>
> Love that bike! If I lost mine today, I'd get another tomorrow.
>
> Clayton Scott 
> SF, CA
>
>

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[RBW] Re: Wow the new grey Cheviots are gorgeous!!!

2016-09-17 Thread SeanMac
I went back-and-forth quite a bit before deciding to pre-order a grey 
Cheviot.  I finally pulled the trigger because of Grant's statement that 
this bike may being going away.  I also really like the cream accents on 
these frames - a detail that was missing from the last version of the 
Cheviots.

After seeing the pictures online yesterday, I am even happier that I chose 
to place my order, as I think they look great.  Quite simply, I think that 
the grey is a classy looking frame.  Can't wait to see it up close.

Sean
East Aurora, NY

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Re: [RBW] Re: Cheviot (or Sam)

2016-08-20 Thread SeanMac
I wanted to again thank everyone for their comments about the Rivendell 
Cheviot.  I'm happy to say that I did finally pull the trigger - a few days 
ago I put a deposit down on a Cheviot!  I decided to go with the grey color 
- 60 cm (my pbh is 86.  I rode a 60 Cheviot a few weeks ago and Riv HQ and 
really felt comfortable on it).  I'm really excited.

I had a hard time choosing between the orange and the grey frame.  I really 
like the orange color.  In the end, however, I decided that the grey color 
would be a bit more understated - which is probably good for a guy who 
still is not 100 % comfortable about the mixtie thing (I am about 92% okay 
with it right now).  I live in a town of less than 7,000 people - we have 
traffic, but not enough that having a bright colored bike is a huge concern.

I plan to use Albatross bars, Brooks B 17 and a front rack (Mark's) and a 
rear rack (Tubus) from a Trek 520 that I now use as my townie.  I also hope 
that I can use the wheels from that bike - they are DT Swiss touring 
wheels.  I ordered a new front and rear derailer (Shimano CX 70 for the 
front and Altus for the rear) and a Sugino XD2 wide/low crank.

Again, thanks for all of your help in making this decision.

Sean


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[RBW] Re: Cheviot (or Sam)

2016-08-09 Thread SeanMac

Still more comments about how nice the Cheviot is to ride.  As far as I can 
tell, the only criticism seems to be that it only have one bottle mount.  
For around town riding, this seems not a big deal, and, as the poster 
commented, extra bottles can be stashed in bags if going on an extended 
ride.

In the preorder page on the Riv website, Grant writes "Last Call?" in the 
description of the Cheviot, explaining that the Clem has been taking sales 
away from the Cheviot.  I rode both bikes a few weeks ago and found the 
Chev to feel much more nimble and quick than the Clem.  For my anticipated 
riding, that makes the Cheviot the winner.

A few people had commented about the struggle to sell custom bikes.  What a 
bummer.  I started a separate thread about my Bob Brown - with a link to 
some photos.  Its geometry is pretty conventional (I think) so hopefully 
there is a market for it.

Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Bob Brown Cycles Road Frame (as referenced in Cheviot thread)

2016-08-09 Thread SeanMac
As requested, here is a link to a few photos of my Bob Brown Cycles road 
frame.  It was built for me by Bob Brown in 2007.  It was my main bike for 
many years, but rarely hits the road any more.

The geometry is pretty straight forward:
 Size - to top of seat tube - 56.2 cm
 Top tube length - 54 cm
 Level top tube
 Chain stay length - 42.5 cm
 Wheelbase - 97.4 cm
 Standover height - 79.2 cm

I have a frame design spreadsheet with many more measurements, if anyone is 
interested.  

I had the bike outfitted with Campy Centaur components, which were mainly 
silver, a Brooks Swift saddle, Nitto threaded stem and Noodle bars.  My 
goal was to have a fast, nimble, classic-looking road bike.

Links to pics:  Bob Brown Cycles road frame 


As a said earlier, I don't anticipate anyone on this list would be 
interested in purchasing this bike (if you are, please contact me).  Any 
advice on where to sell it, asking price, etc would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Re: Cheviot (or Sam)

2016-08-09 Thread SeanMac
Wow - what a bunch of enablers you folks are!  In all seriousness, I really 
do appreciate all of your comments.  I really did enjoy riding the Cheviot 
when I was in Walnut Creek a few weeks ago.  I remember being surprised by 
how quick the bike felt.  I have a Tubus rear rack and a "Mark's rack" that 
would be added to the Chev.  With this setup I think it would be an ideal 
around town / bike path bike.  I rode a green bike, but really like the 
orange color - with the cream headtube being a nice bonus.  

I still regret not buying a Rambouillet ten years ago.  Since this looks 
like the last run of Cheviots, it seems like I would be a fool to not pull 
the trigger.

Any advice on selling a go-fastish bike?  The only way that I can justify 
purchasing the Chev is by selling off the Bob Brown bike that I currently 
own.  I assume that there would be little market on this list.  Where else 
might I turn?  Suggestions on setting a price?  Is there a standard 
depreciation rate for bikes that I can/ should use to help me determine my 
price?  What are the benefits / pitfalls of selling on ebay?

Sorry to be so filled with questions.  However, I'm entering unknown 
territory and this group is filled with knowledgeable folks.

Thanks again,
Sean

On Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at 11:43:40 AM UTC-4, Joe Bernard wrote:
>
> I still have some residual issues with mixtes being perceived as "girl 
> bikes", but I don't see it in the Cheviot. The toptube has more of a 
> downslope-like-a-mountain-bike look than a true mixte. If it rides anything 
> like my Appaloosa - which I think it's comparable to - then you should get 
> one. I rode my Joe at RBW once, then went back a few days later for 
> another, then went back a couple days after that to buy it. I loved the 
> blue with green-wrapped Noodles, and knew that color was going away. If you 
> dig that Chev, buy it!

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[RBW] Cheviot (or Sam)

2016-08-09 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

I had the opportunity to spend a few hours at Riv HQ a few Saturday's ago.  
I had a wonderful time - I rode four bikes (Clem, Cheviot, Sam and 
Hubbuhubbah), and walked away with a medium saddlesack bag.  Still smile 
when I think about the fun I had.  Most of my riding (about an hour) was 
done on the Clem.  I enjoyed the ride, but it did not really speak to me.  
Perhaps it was just too different from the bikes that I typically ride.  
Strangely enough, the bike that emerged as my favorite was the Cheviot.  I 
can't seem to get it out of my head.  In fact, ever since I returned home, 
I have been trying to figure out if I loved the Chev enough to purchase one 
before they go away.  Here is my situation.

About ten years ago I had a custom-built Bob Brown Cycle made for me.  I 
nearly bought a Rambouillet, but chose Bob Brown instead.  It was my 
poor-man's red convertible that I got for my 40th birthday.  That bike 
complimented my circa 1990 Trek 520 quite well.  My Bob Brown was 
quick-ish, sporty and fun to ride.  However, as the years went by, I found 
it to be increasingly uncomfortable for longer ride.  Two years ago I 
bought a Black Mountain Road bike.  This bike has a bit more relaxed 
geometry.  I really love this bike - it is much more comfortable than Bob 
Brown, and has become the bike that I grab most often.  In fact, Bob Brown 
typically sees the road only once or twice a year - it is typically the 
bike that I use on my indoor trainer.  My Trek 520 has been turned into a 
grocery-getter.  However, it does not bring me a great deal of joy to ride, 
but it gets the job done.

In my mind, I see the Cheviot as a replacement for my Trek 520.  Nearly all 
of the components that I have on the Trek would easily transfer to the Chev 
- meaning that my initial output of cash would be only for the frame.

I've read through everything that I can find on the list about the 
Cheviot.  I would love to hear impressions from those who have had the bike 
long term.  Likes?  Dislikes?  Dealing with the "guy on a girl's bike" 
thing is perhaps an issue.  However, as I approach 50 I see the benefit of 
the lower top tube.  Besides, when I rode the Cheviot in Walnut Creek, I 
did not even think about the fact that I was riding a mixte, as I was 
simply enjoying the ride.

I live in a small town in western New York - with short rides (mile or two) 
to the co-op grocery store, library, post office, etc.  This is the type of 
riding, along with occasional paved and/or gravel path riding) that I see 
myself doing with a Cheviot.  What do you think -- good choice in bikes?

What about a Sam?  I rode a Sam the other day as well, but it was set up 
with Noodle bars, and rode much more like a typical road bike.  If I set it 
up with Albatross bars, bags, etc how would it likely compare with the 
Cheviot?  Would it ride the same and put the same smile on my face without 
causing me and/or those seeing me question my manliness?

Any insight on these issues would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sean
East Aurora, NY

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[RBW] Re: Ohio to Erie Trail trip

2016-07-04 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for writing about this trip - and for posting all of the great 
pictures as well.  It looks like you had a wonderful trip.

On several of the photos, it looked as thought you had a map / guidebook 
that was attached to your handlebars.  Where did you find that?  I would 
love to get a copy for myself - so a link would be much appreciated.

As a native of Ohio (I grew up in Mansfield) I've contemplated returning to 
my home state a few times to ride from Cleveland to Cincinnati.  This fall 
my son will start his freshmen year at Denision University, which is 
located in the Columbus area.  He and I rode the Erie Canal trail to Albany 
a few summers ago.  As a result of his decision to attend school in Ohio, 
my thoughts of another father-son bike trip were rekindled.  Your photos 
certainly helped to rekindle that thinking as well.

Thanks again,

Sean

On Saturday, July 2, 2016 at 9:53:21 PM UTC-4, Bikie#4646 wrote:
>
> After experiencing many of the Mid-Atlantic rail trails and towpaths, I 
> took the Sam touring bike for a 365-mile, 5-day self-supported trip from 
> the top to the bottom of Ohio using the *Ohio to Erie Trail*, which links 
> 16 trails of all types and surfaces linked with urban and rural road 
> sections (including Amish country) through 15 counties and 41 
> municipalities. Temps ranged from the high-60's to around 100 degrees! 
> Challenging, but I had the great pathfinding skills of friend, Dan WIdner, 
> who did most of the planning and mapping. This was a great way to see the 
> midwest! What a great resource for that state! 
>
> *https://www.flickr.com/photos/bikecrazy-paul/albums/72157669855129132 
> *
>
> Paul Germain
>

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Re: [RBW] Re: OT - Help me decide how to spend a day in Sacramento /San Francisco

2016-06-06 Thread SeanMac
Thank you all so much for your suggestions.  What a great group of 
friends!  I managed to pick up a few travel guidebooks at my library the 
other day.  So, with your suggestions in mind, I will spend some time 
pouring through the books, studying various maps, trying to make some sense 
of how I should spend my time in the big city.

I appreciate the layering suggestions.  I live in Buffalo, NY, so cold 
weather is not really a concern.  However, if I leave Sacramento and its 
100 degrees (I really hope that will not be the case), I'll be sure to 
carry a nice, cozy Ibex top with me.  

Speaking of Sacramento, I recently read something about the American River 
Trail.  Anyone familiar with this trail?  My hotel is pretty near the 
trail, and it does appear that bike rentals are available.  Perhaps I can 
manage a ride on the trail while I am in Sacramento.

So far, I'm somewhat sold on the idea of riding the ferry from Oakland to 
San Francisco.  Richard, thanks for your suggestions for things to do in 
Oakland.  When I eventually do get to San Francisco, I do want to do a bit 
of walking in the heart of the city.  David - I like your suggestions.  
Blue Bottle Coffee at the ferry station along with some walking / eating / 
shopping sounds like some fun.  If time allows, a walk / ride across the 
Golden Gate Bridge and some time in the park sounds like fun.

At this point, I have moved away from a Giants game.  As much as I would 
like to see the park, I hate to tie up so much time watching a game.  
However, it is good to know that I can sneak a peak inside the stadium for 
free.  That sounds do-able.

A trip to Rivendell still intrigues me.  I'll have to look at the train 
schedules to see if I can catch a train that will get me to Walnut Creek 
early in the morning.  I don't own a Rivendell.  In fact, I've only 
seen/ridden one once - a test ride of a Rambouillet approximately 9 years 
ago at a dealership in Burlington Vt. (the Alpine Shop, I believe).  I 
ended up not buying that bike (a mistake, I now realize - I bought a custom 
frame from Bob Brown Cycles instead).  Hence, I would love the chance to 
see a few frames, get my PBH measured, go for a ride or two and soak up 
some Riv atmosphere.  However, I need to decide how much time I can devote 
to such a visit.  

Another variable is that my seminar group is heading to San Francisco on a 
Thursday to view the San Francisco Maritime National Park.  I don't know 
how long we will be there, but my schedule says that we will also have some 
free time in San Francisco that day.  Perhaps that trip will allow me to 
experience a few of the "to do's" on my list, leaving me time to visit 
Rivendell.  

Thank goodness I have some time to think about the possibilities!

Evan - thanks for your suggestion of contacting you / the list again as I 
get closer to my trip.  I'll definitely do that!  

Thanks again everyone.

Sean

On Monday, June 6, 2016 at 2:09:18 AM UTC-4, Evan E. wrote:
>
> Sean,
>
> I won't add to your confusion by piling on more suggestions, but I will 
> say that if you decide to ride a bike in SF, let us know. With a few weeks' 
> notice, a few of us could maybe arrange to meet you at the Ferry Building 
> in SF and take you on a ride to the Marin Headlands (yes, the GG Bridge 
> ride can be crowded but it's also beautiful). Or if you prefer to walk, per 
> dstein's suggestion, I live in North Beach and could give you some local 
> tips. Reply off list, or on it if you like.
>
> Evan
>
>
>
>

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[RBW] Re: OT - Help me decide how to spend a day in Sacramento /San Francisco

2016-05-31 Thread SeanMac
I'm really enjoying these suggestions.  Thank you all for taking the time 
to respond.

I'll be in Sacramento the last week of July.  My day to play is Saturday, 
July 30.  I assume this puts me right in the heart of busy tourist time.

A few of my friends suggested renting a car and traveling to the Napa wine 
country or to Muir's Woods, but the idea of driving at all - much less on a 
Saturday - has absolutely no appeal.  I'm pretty happy to use public 
transportation. 

I do really like Kurt's suggestion to take the ferry from Oakland to San 
Francisco.  That in itself should be an enjoyable experience.  The idea of 
renting a bike (bike share program, I assume) and then wheeling around the 
city sounds cool - especially going over the Golden Gate Bridge.  This 
seems like a very fun-filled, human-speed approach to seeing what the city 
has to offer.  

If I follow Kurt's suggestion, do you still think it would be possible to 
visit Rivendell?  If I get up really early and take an early train from 
Sacramento, I probably could arrive in Walnut Creek around the time that 
the store opens.  From my google-mapping (is that a real term), it looks 
like I should be able to walk from the BART station to both the 
headquarters building and to the new Bike, Book and Hatchet store.  If I 
got back on the train sometime between 12 - 1 and headed for Oakland, it 
would seem to me that I would still have a lot of time to explore San 
Francisco by bike.  Am I crazy to think this way?

Would I really be able to borrow a bike at Riv that I could ride to Mt. 
Diablo?  That seems really cool?  I assume that I would need to contact 
them ahead of time to see if a bike was available.  I couldn't possibly 
just show up, say hello, and then ask to borrow a bike for a few hours, 
could I?  

Obviously I have a lot more thinking, and reading to do.  Obviously I have 
a lot of time before I need to decide what to do.  I've paged though some 
tourism web site and will likely pick up a guidebook for the region as 
well.  However, given all of the local knowledge in this group, I knew that 
you would have tremendous suggestions.

Thanks again.  Keep the good ideas coming!

Sean


On Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at 8:24:41 PM UTC-4, Jim M. wrote:
>
> One day with the need to make public transit connections will be a big 
> time constraint. The Giants play in a great stadium, and because it's an 
> even year, you'll be seeing them on their way to another world series. If 
> you really want to visit RBW, you could make that a day by borrowing a bike 
> from them (or from a local lister), and taking a ride in the foothills of 
> Mt. Diablo, or all the way up if you're in good shape. It might be a 100 
> degree day in late July, but, hey, it's a dry heat. There are plenty of 
> listers who would volunteer as tour guide should you choose that option. 
> Alcatraz, meh, watch *The Rock* and you'll see most of it. 
>
> jim m
> wc, ca
>
> On Monday, May 30, 2016 at 1:32:42 PM UTC-7, SeanMac wrote:
>>
>> Hi folks,
>>
>> I'm hoping for some advice for a trip that I will be taking in late 
>> July.  I will be spending a bit more than a week in Sacramento 
>> participating in a seminar for teachers on the Transcontinental Railroad.  
>> The seminar ends on a Friday evening, but I decided to extend my visit a 
>> bit so that I have a day to play / explore before getting on a train to 
>> head home (to Buffalo, NY) on Sunday morning.
>>
>> I'm a Midwestern boy - never having ventured west beyond St. Louis, 
>> Missouri.  It is possible that this will be the only time that I will ever 
>> be in California, so I am looking for advice about what I should do on a 
>> Saturday in late July.
>>
>> One option, of course, is to visit Riv headquarters in Walnut Creek.  I 
>> certainly am considering doing just that.  I'd love comments regarding how 
>> high this should be on my list of things to do (yes, I know that this list 
>> is pretty biased).  I've also thought about attending a Giants baseball 
>> game, or simply walking around Fisherman's Wharf / Ghiradelli Square in 
>> downtown San Francisco.  A few friends have also suggested a visit to 
>> Alcatraz.
>>
>> The only real constraint that I have is that I will need to rely on 
>> public transportation to get from Sacramento to wherever I decide to go.  I 
>> also would love to be back in Sacramento before it gets too late on 
>> Saturday so that I can make my train home on Sunday morning.
>>
>> Thanks for your suggestions.  Please respond off list to :  
>> sean...@gmail.com
>>
>> Sean
>>
>

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[RBW] OT - Help me decide how to spend a day in Sacramento /San Francisco

2016-05-30 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

I'm hoping for some advice for a trip that I will be taking in late July.  
I will be spending a bit more than a week in Sacramento participating in a 
seminar for teachers on the Transcontinental Railroad.  The seminar ends on 
a Friday evening, but I decided to extend my visit a bit so that I have a 
day to play / explore before getting on a train to head home (to Buffalo, 
NY) on Sunday morning.

I'm a Midwestern boy - never having ventured west beyond St. Louis, 
Missouri.  It is possible that this will be the only time that I will ever 
be in California, so I am looking for advice about what I should do on a 
Saturday in late July.

One option, of course, is to visit Riv headquarters in Walnut Creek.  I 
certainly am considering doing just that.  I'd love comments regarding how 
high this should be on my list of things to do (yes, I know that this list 
is pretty biased).  I've also thought about attending a Giants baseball 
game, or simply walking around Fisherman's Wharf / Ghiradelli Square in 
downtown San Francisco.  A few friends have also suggested a visit to 
Alcatraz.

The only real constraint that I have is that I will need to rely on public 
transportation to get from Sacramento to wherever I decide to go.  I also 
would love to be back in Sacramento before it gets too late on Saturday so 
that I can make my train home on Sunday morning.

Thanks for your suggestions.  Please respond off list to :  
seanm...@gmail.com

Sean

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[RBW] Re: Brooks saddle repair?

2016-05-16 Thread SeanMac
I've had a saddle repaired by Simon Firth as well - a Brooks Swift.  I was 
happy with the speed and quality of the job.

Here is a link to the shop:  Firth & Wilson - Transp Cycles 


Best of luck,

Sean

On Monday, May 16, 2016 at 1:43:12 PM UTC-4, Ted Shwartz wrote:
>
> Simon Firth at Firth Transport Cycles did a nice job repairing my B17
>
> Ted
>

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[RBW] Re: Which Helmet Mirror?

2016-04-24 Thread SeanMac
If you do decide to go with a helmet, I would highly recommend the HubBub 
helmet mirror.  I've worn one for years (probably a decade or more) and 
been very happy.  I've found that the mirror is secure and does not 
interfere with my vision, while providing an excellent view of what is 
happening behind me.  Here is a link:  HubBub Helmet Mirror 


On Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 9:04:50 AM UTC-4, Lungimsam wrote:
>
> Recently took off my eyeglass mirror and started searching threads and 
> reading about mirrors.
> I have been using a teeny one that sticks onto the inside of my glasses 
> but was looking for something that might require less head turn to see the 
> road behind me, but that also is minimal aesthetic.
> Looks like Take a look and Tiger eye, bottle caps, etc. are still the 
> latest thing around for helmet and glasses frame mounting.
>
> Still torn about whether to wear a helmet or not. I'd use take a look on 
> glasses. On helmet, Tiger eye, or the cool hack mentioned above would work 
> to install take a look onto a helmet. The tiger eye is very minimal and 
> comes with reflective backing on mirror.
>
>

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Re: [RBW] Patches

2016-01-18 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for all of the great ideas and photos.  I really do like the look of 
the patches on the bike bags - makes me think that my Ostrich bag will look 
pretty sharp with a few patches attached to it.  

Neither my wife or I is very good with a thread and needle.  Perhaps the 
speedy stitcher tool is worth a look.  More likely, however, is the hot 
glue gun idea.  Jeff, I'm curious, how long as the glue held up for you so 
far?  Do you recommend a few globs of hot glue or is the goal to have the 
entire back surface covered with a thin layer?  Another benefit of the 
glue, in addition to being easier than sewing on the patches, is that it 
would not create any holes in the bag that might leak in the future.

Joe - Thanks for reminding me about the Just Ride patches.  How could I 
forget about those?  Perhaps I need to order one or three of those today - 
and the new Reader, of course.

Sean

On Monday, January 18, 2016 at 9:56:07 AM UTC-5, Jeff wrote:
>
> I use a hot glue gun to glue 'em on, no follow-up stitching. Probably 
> won't last forever but I haven't lost a patch to the outside world yet.
>
> On Mon, Jan 18, 2016 at 9:25 AM, Marc Irwin  > wrote:
>
>> I use shoe goo or some other silicone adhesive.  Also put a couple 
>> stitches in a couple places, it's easier than trying to stitch it all the 
>> way around.
>>
>> Marc
>>
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[RBW] Patches

2016-01-17 Thread SeanMac
I need some help understanding bicycle patches.  I've never really been 
into them before, but with the recent threads regarding the Biketinkerers 
Union and the Association of Caffeinated Wheelmen (I bought one of each) 
and my recent backing of the Yehuda Moon Kickstarter (got a Yehuda Moon 
patch as part of the think you package) I find myself as a bit of a 
collector.

Please help the newbie!

As I placed my orders, I was thinking that I could attach these patches 
(and the others that I will certainly purchase in the future) to the 
side(s) of my green Ostrich handlebar bag.  Has anyone else done something 
similar with their patches?  If not, what do you do with them?

Thanks for sharing.

Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Brooks Saddle Repair - Broken Tension Shackle

2015-04-29 Thread SeanMac
As I was heading out the door for my bike ride yesterday afternoon I 
realized that there was a problem with my much loved Brooks Swift 
(titanium) saddle.  I put my hand on the top of the saddle and noticed an 
unusual amount of flex.  Upon closer inspection, it was obvious that 
something was wrong.  It turns out that part of the tension shackle, the 
part that connects the nose of the saddle to the saddle frame, had broken.  
Bummer.  

The saddle has at least 12,000 miles, and the leather is in great shape, so 
I want to have this problem fixed.  A new tension shackle can be obtained 
very inexpensively (only $3.50 for the chromed steel version).  However, as 
I have never carried out this repair, I am looking for some guidance / 
encouragement / advice.  A quick internet search turned up a few good 
tidbits, but I'm hoping for some help here from the experts.  Is this a 
relatively easy repair that a mechanic with limited skills can complete or 
would I be much better off shipping the saddle to a qualified repair expert?

If this is not a home mechanic job, I would appreciate advice on where to 
have it fixed - ideally in the USA.

Thanks,
Sean

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Re: [RBW] Re: What do Rivendell Riders use for helmet mounted rear view mirrors?

2015-04-12 Thread SeanMac

I've used a mirror from HubBub cycles for at least ten years.  Here is a 
link to their latest version.  It is a bit pricy, but worth every penny.

HubBub Helmet Mirror 
http://hubbubonline.com/?product=hubbub-helmet-mirror-3

Sean

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[RBW] Re: Repair help needed - Stuck stem expander wedge

2015-03-31 Thread SeanMac
Good news - my wedge is no longer stuck!

At the suggestion of Bill (and implied by several others), I cut a board 
that would fit over the head tube.  I drilled a hole in the board that was 
large enough for the stem bolt.  Then I simply screwed the bolt into the 
wedge and kept screwing until the wedge unstuck itself and I could pull 
it right out of the head tube.  This was an easy solution to my problem, 
and certainly less work than pulling off the fenders, brakes, etc.

The next step in the process for me is a new stem.  I will be placing an 
order from Rivendell today before the 6% off coupon expires.  I need to 
decide whether to order a 25.4 clamp to go with my albatross bars (which 
was the point of this little project) or to order a 26.0 clamp.  I have a 
sham to use the larger stem with my albatross bars.  Getting the bigger 
size also allows me to switch back to the noodles at some point if I decide 
that the albatross bars are not for me.  However, a 25.4 clamp size without 
a shim would be a better fit for the albatross bars.  What to do, what to 
do? 

Thanks for all of the help with my stuck stem wedge.

Sean


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[RBW] Repair help needed - Stuck stem expander wedge

2015-03-29 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

Taking advantage of the cold weather to work on a Noodle to Albatross 
conversion project.  Unfortunately, it is not off to a very good start.  
After removing the noodle bars, I decided to remove my stem as well.  I 
loosened the bolt , gave it a light wack with a rubber mallet and pulled 
the stem right out.  Unfortunately, the expander bolt remained inside the 
head tube.  Despite my best efforts I cannot remove it.

What I have tried - so far
1)  Put the stem back in place, put the bolt back, tightened things up and 
tried to remove it again.  Same result as before
2)  Put the bolt in (no stem) and screwed it into the expander bolt and 
tried to pull the wedge and the bolt out with a pair of vice grips on the 
bolt.  Again, no go.

At this point I am at a bit of a loss as to what to do.  My plan was to 
replace the stem with one that had both a longer quill and a longer 
extension.  However, I am guessing that if I cannot remove the wedge that I 
am in big trouble.

Any advice / suggestions about what to do would be appreciated.

The bike is an early 1990s Trek 520.  These are not the original parts.  
The stem was likely in place for three or four years before I started 
fussing with it.

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[RBW] Re: Repair help needed - Stuck stem expander wedge

2015-03-29 Thread SeanMac

Thanks for your suggestions on how to attack my stuck stem wedge.  The 
consensus certainly seems to be that I need to attack it from the bottom of 
the head tube.  That suggestion makes a lot of sense to me.  Unfortunately, 
it also means that I need to remove the front fender and [most likely] the 
front brake as well.  It is amazing how what began as a relatively simple, 
straight-forward project has become much more involved.

My plan is to purchase a Nitto Tallux stem to use on this bike, as I am 
looking to go both a bit taller and longer than my current stem.  Is it 
possible [or likely] that the stuck wedge has caused any damage to the head 
tube that will make this plan not work?  

Anyone have any experience with a threadless stem adaptor, such as this one 
sold by VO?  VO Threadless Stem Adaptor 
http://store.velo-orange.com/index.php/components/stems/quill-stems/vo-threadless-stem-adaptor.html.
  
I have contemplating using one of these and a VO threadless stem on this 
project, but think that the Tallus will work even better for me.

Again, thanks for your help.

Sean

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[RBW] Re: Noodle to Albatross Conversion - Final Questions

2015-03-02 Thread SeanMac
I just finished placing my order.  I decided to go with the CroMo Albatross 
bars.  While I was at it, I ordered a pair of Miesha's cork grips and two 
rolls of brown Newbaum's tape.  This tape will, I hope, match my well-loved 
B-17 honey saddle, which is looking pretty brown these days.

My only hesitation was on the brake levers.  I'm going to be patient and 
wait for the Tektro Mountain Levers - which were the ones that I really 
wanted - to come back in stock.  The ETA for the levers in late March? 
which concerns me a bit.  However, since I live in the Buffalo, NY area 
(and don't like to ride on snow-covered roads) I am going to risk missing a 
ride or two in exchange for the brake levers that I am after.

I am quite excited about this project.  I think that the new bars will 
bring new life to my old Trek.  More importantly, I think that this setup 
will distinguish that bike from my other bikes, which both feature 
Noodles.  

Thanks for your help.  I will post pictures when the project is completed.

Sean

On Monday, March 2, 2015 at 3:29:43 PM UTC-5, John wrote:

 How much does actually need to abuse their handlebars to need the aluminum 
 over the CrMo bars?  

 When I ordered my Hunq, I thought Riv said weight was the only difference. 

 I don't remember seeing anything about the aluminum bars being preferred 
 for gravel or fire roads.

 SurlyProf / John, have you tried using a torque wrench to tighten the 
 stem? Did you bars still move?

 Thanks,

 John







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[RBW] Re: Noodle to Albatross Conversion - Final Questions

2015-03-01 Thread SeanMac
Benz,

When I was putting my order together at Rivendell, the Tektro Mountain 
levers were my first choice.  Unfortunately, they are currently out of 
stock (perhaps you get the last set!).  I'm weighing whether to order the 
bars now and wait for the Tektro brake levers to come back in stock, or 
just order the bars and Shimano levers now.  

On your Tektro levers, is the barrel adjuster metal?  I do prefer that the 
Tektro adjuster is silver, rather than the black adjuster on the Shimano. 

Sean


On Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 2:32:04 PM UTC-5, Benz, Sunnyvale, CA wrote:

 The Riv catalog had made mention of the heat-treated aluminum Alba bar 
 being stronger, but it appears that you've considered that and deemed the 
 CrMo version appropriate for your use. There's of course the risk of rust 
 but if you spray the insides with something like Boeshield, you should be 
 fine.

 The MTB brake levers that Riv sell are fine. I have a set that has seen 
 many miles on a CA 4-season commuter and they are no fuss, although I don't 
 particular like that part of the barrel adjuster is plastic (not a 
 structural concern). I've recently got a set of the Tektro Mountain brake 
 levers from Riv that are about the same price (but don't come with cables), 
 and they're quite comfortable and compatible with my R559 brakes (pull 
 ratio-wise). Plus they look better (subjective) and are lighter (objective, 
 but you may not care).

 http://www.rivbike.com/product-p/bl120.htm


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[RBW] Noodle to Albatross Conversion - Final Questions

2015-03-01 Thread SeanMac
I've spent quite a bit of time this winter contemplating a project to 
convert my early 1990 Trek 520 Touring bike to a more upright, around 
town bike.  The bike is all set with fenders and racks.  The next step is 
to replace the Noodles with Albatross bars. Here are my questions.

First, given that I have absolutely no concern about the weight of this 
bike, is there any reason NOT to to buy the $68 CrMo Albas that Riv 
offers?  Since this bike will be ridden on roads only, I can't see any 
reason to spend $90 to buy the lighter and stronger heat treated aluminum 
version of the Alba.

Secondly, I am curious if anyone has used the Shimano MTB brake lever that 
Rivendell sells.  It seems like a good, solid, relatively nice-looking 
brake lever.  I will be using it to pull Tektro 559 sidepull brakes.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Sean

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Re: [RBW] (f)Atlantis gets a new look

2015-02-17 Thread SeanMac
Mark, Bob E. Bobs in General -

I'm still in the contemplation mode for a bar switch.  I've got a Trek 520 
touring bike from the early 1990s that currently has Noodle bars.  I'm 
thinking about converting this into a more upright, ride-around-town bike.  
For this use, an Albatross seems like a great choice.  I'm curious about 
the ideal height of the Albatross bars.  Is the goal to get the stem up so 
that it is level with the saddle - which would make the bars even higher, 
or is the goal to end up with the bars being level with the saddle (and the 
stem a bit lower)?

The other idea bouncing around in my head is to obtain an albastache bar 
(rather than the albatross) for this bike.  This bar, at least in my head, 
would retain more of the touring nature of my Trek, while also providing 
the option of a more upright position than my noodles.  Since I have never 
been on a bike with a 'stache bars, I have a hard time even imagining what 
this combination would be like.

Any advice, comments or suggestions would be appreciated.

Sean

On Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at 4:29:55 PM UTC-5, Bob E wrote:

 Looks great, and nice photos, as usual!
 There seems to be more than a few folks swapping out drop bars for 
 Albatrosses of late; I suppose there's something to be said for 
 those performance upright bikes. (I'll find out soon, as I'm currently in 
 the middle of such a conversion right now!)
 https://www.flickr.com/photos/30490050@N04/16551740941/
  
 Bob E 


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Re: [RBW] Re: Noodle to Albastache Swap - Trek 520 Touring Bike

2015-01-20 Thread SeanMac
 are more in line with that pivot point and less of 
 your weight is on the bars.  Steering becomes more of a push/pull 
 relationship.  At least that's what I've been able to surmise from a basic 
 ergonomic comparison between the drops, bosco, albatross and older 
 mustache 
 bars I've had.  This is also why I think that flipping the Albatross bars 
 will not achieve a similar feel of my old mustache bars.
  
  
  
 Hi, I'm John and I'm a bar-swap addict.

 On Monday, January 19, 2015 at 8:08:47 AM UTC-8, SeanMac wrote:
  
 Hi folks,

 I am contemplating a winter project that would convert an early 1990 
 Trek 520 touring bike into an around town grocery getter  and/or bike 
 trail, easy cruising bike.  My plan is to swap out the Noodle bars on my 
 Trek for Albastache bars.

 From what I have read, this looks to be a pretty easy conversion.  The 
 bar end shifters that I have on the Noodles should work on the Albastache 
 bars.  I should also be able to swap over the brake levers from the Noodle 
 to the Alnbastache (I've got the original levers - non-aero, 
 non-brifters).   Is there something that I am missing?  Will be cable 
 lengths be similar or will I likely need new cables?

 For as long as I can remember, every bike that I have ever ridden has 
 used drop bars, so I contemplate this shift with both excitement and a bit 
 of apprehension.  After all, why mess with something that works?  On the 
 other hand, I think that this conversion will bring new life to a bike 
 that 
 does not get used very often.

 One other thought, what color Newbaum tape do you suggest to best match 
 an Brooks B-17 honey saddle that has some years on it?

 Thanks for your thoughts.

 Sean
 EA, NY
   
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[RBW] Noodle to Albastache Swap - Trek 520 Touring Bike

2015-01-19 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

I am contemplating a winter project that would convert an early 1990 Trek 
520 touring bike into an around town grocery getter  and/or bike trail, 
easy cruising bike.  My plan is to swap out the Noodle bars on my Trek for 
Albastache bars.

From what I have read, this looks to be a pretty easy conversion.  The bar 
end shifters that I have on the Noodles should work on the Albastache 
bars.  I should also be able to swap over the brake levers from the Noodle 
to the Alnbastache (I've got the original levers - non-aero, 
non-brifters).   Is there something that I am missing?  Will be cable 
lengths be similar or will I likely need new cables?

For as long as I can remember, every bike that I have ever ridden has used 
drop bars, so I contemplate this shift with both excitement and a bit of 
apprehension.  After all, why mess with something that works?  On the other 
hand, I think that this conversion will bring new life to a bike that does 
not get used very often.

One other thought, what color Newbaum tape do you suggest to best match an 
Brooks B-17 honey saddle that has some years on it?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Sean
EA, NY

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[RBW] Re: Noodle to Albastache Swap - Trek 520 Touring Bike

2015-01-19 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for the responses. 

David - what a great looking bike.  I live just down the road in East 
Aurora.  Perhaps our paths will cross sometime.  

Kieran - my Trek is dark green -- a nice, distinguished British racing 
green.  

As I have been thinking about this project, I did consider switching to the 
Albatross bars.  However, doing so would make it necessary to buy a new 
pair of brake levers and a shim to attach to my stem.  Not a huge deal, but 
something to think about.  As it is, the switch to a Albastache might 
require me to purchase a new stem - such as a dirt drop stem - since many 
folks have stated on this list and elsewhere that the 'stache bars seem to 
work best when they are positioned relatively level to the saddle.  With my 
setup now, I think that the bars will end up being several inches below the 
saddle.   If I decide to follow through with this project, I think that I 
will try the bars with the stem that I have and see how that goes before 
buying a new stem. (though Riv is having that sale on Nitto products . . . 
).

Sean



On Monday, January 19, 2015 at 1:32:47 PM UTC-5, Tony DeFilippo wrote:

 Nice work on the white newbaums/amber shellac David!  That is a serious 
 transformation.

 Good luck with the bar swap Sean, I am a serial bar swapper... I've been 
 through Albatross, Noodles (44-46-48), Moustache bars (original) plus a 
 gaggle of other drop bars and a few more upright varieties over the past 2 
 years.  I'm pretty darn happy with Alba's and Noodles, and the M-Bars are 
 great at times too. I tested out a set of albastache's on a demo Sam at 
 RBBH a year ago and my short ride impression was they weren't enough 
 different from the original M bars to make the switch worthwhile to me.

 My experience is that Albatross bars are the most transformational (and 
 end the end comfortable) you can get, noodles are the most versatile and 
 M-bars are the most stylish.

 Share some pictures when you swap!

 Tony


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[RBW] Re: Noodle to Albastache Swap - Trek 520 Touring Bike

2015-01-19 Thread SeanMac
Niles - Did you have to make any changes to your stem?

Sean

On Monday, January 19, 2015 at 2:34:33 PM UTC-5, Nils Eng wrote:

 I just made the switch as well, and I'm loving it.  One tricky thing for 
 me was needing an extra long derailleur cable to make the distance from the 
 end of my bar all the way to the RD without tight bends.  I couldn't find 
 extra long cables anywhere, until I asked for tandem length cables. 
  Hope you enjoy!

 On Monday, January 19, 2015 at 9:08:47 AM UTC-7, SeanMac wrote:

 Hi folks,

 I am contemplating a winter project that would convert an early 1990 Trek 
 520 touring bike into an around town grocery getter  and/or bike trail, 
 easy cruising bike.  My plan is to swap out the Noodle bars on my Trek for 
 Albastache bars.

 From what I have read, this looks to be a pretty easy conversion.  The 
 bar end shifters that I have on the Noodles should work on the Albastache 
 bars.  I should also be able to swap over the brake levers from the Noodle 
 to the Alnbastache (I've got the original levers - non-aero, 
 non-brifters).   Is there something that I am missing?  Will be cable 
 lengths be similar or will I likely need new cables?

 For as long as I can remember, every bike that I have ever ridden has 
 used drop bars, so I contemplate this shift with both excitement and a bit 
 of apprehension.  After all, why mess with something that works?  On the 
 other hand, I think that this conversion will bring new life to a bike that 
 does not get used very often.

 One other thought, what color Newbaum tape do you suggest to best match 
 an Brooks B-17 honey saddle that has some years on it?

 Thanks for your thoughts.

 Sean
 EA, NY



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[RBW] Re: GrandBois tires on sale at Grandbois

2015-01-18 Thread SeanMac
Nice find - thanks for sharing with the list.  Any thoughts on how these 
tires compare to the new Compass line of tires (at 28mm Chinook Pass)?

Sean
EA, NY

On Friday, January 16, 2015 at 11:39:44 PM UTC-5, frenchosa wrote:


 I just ordered GrandBois Extra Leger tires for for 32 each...about 1/2 
 price of what they are selling for in the States

 http://www.cyclesgrandbois.com/SHOP/T700_F28_EL.html

 I live in Japan, but it looks like they do international shipping.

 Michael
 Osaka, Japan


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[RBW] Re: GrandBois tires on sale at Grandbois

2015-01-18 Thread SeanMac
Anton,

I appreciate your response.  Using pretty much the same logic as you - I 
decided to order a pair of the tires.  

The ordering process, unfortunately, is a bit complicated.  Basically, 
after placing my order, I received a confirmation email from Grand Bois.  
If I understand things correctly, I will (at some point) receive a second 
email telling me what my final cost will be - specifically adding shipping 
charges (which were not given in my initial order) and subtracting Japanese 
sales tax.  After receiving this information, I will be invited to finalize 
the transaction by paying with my Pay Pal account.

The process does make me a bit nervous.  However, it does seem that I can 
back out if the shipping charges are too high for my liking.  The 
transaction is a bit complicated, but the deal is pretty darn good.

Sean

On Sunday, January 18, 2015 at 2:02:26 PM UTC-5, Anton Tutter wrote:

 Sean,

 I can't make a direct comparison since I haven't owned tires of either 
 brand in that exact size, but I can tell you that the new Compass Pass 42mm 
 tires do surpass the ride quality of the Grand Bois version they set out to 
 improve upon, so my guess is that the Compass will be superior when 
 comparing the other sizes as well.  But if the Grand Bois tires can be had 
 for around half the price of a Compass with about 95% of the ride quality, 
 sounds like a good choice to me!

 Anton


 On Sunday, January 18, 2015 at 10:48:47 AM UTC-5, SeanMac wrote:

 Nice find - thanks for sharing with the list.  Any thoughts on how these 
 tires compare to the new Compass line of tires (at 28mm Chinook Pass)?

 Sean
 EA, NY

 On Friday, January 16, 2015 at 11:39:44 PM UTC-5, frenchosa wrote:


 I just ordered GrandBois Extra Leger tires for for 32 each...about 
 1/2 price of what they are selling for in the States

 http://www.cyclesgrandbois.com/SHOP/T700_F28_EL.html

 I live in Japan, but it looks like they do international shipping.

 Michael
 Osaka, Japan



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[RBW] Re: Help Choosing Tires - Jack Brown vs. Compass Stampede Pass

2014-12-01 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for all of your responses.  Based on what I have read, I am leaning 
toward giving the Stampede Pass tires a shot.  

Neil - you addressed the one concern that I still have - that the Stampede 
Pass will be more flat-prone than other tires.  I'm sorry that the Stampede 
Pass have been so flat-prone for you.  My reading online has not really 
found this to be a problem that many people mention with this tire.  Anyone 
else have flatting issues with Jan's new tires - specifically the Stampede 
Pass model?

A number of years ago I purchased a pair of Grand Bois tires (don't 
remember the specific model) for an old Trek 520 touring bike that I 
owned.  I liked the way those tires made my bike feel when I rode it, but I 
do recall that the tires seemed to flat a lot more than other tires that I 
had used for similar riding.  Who knows, perhaps I just had some bad luck.  
Anyway, I certainly do not mind fixing a flat tires.  However, its not 
something that I would choose to do during a ride.

I'd love to hear a few more data points on these tires.

Sean

On Monday, December 1, 2014 4:14:52 PM UTC-5, Neil wrote:

 Lots of folks here on Compass tires! I had a set of Compass 26 x 1.75s on 
 my LHT, liked 'em, and shod the Sam in Barlow Pass tires.
  
 Love love love the feel of these tire...nice and cushy, acceptable 
 traction in the dirt, all around very nice...but not happy with puncture 
 flats at a rate of one every 40 miles, and what I consider excessively 
 quick wear on the rear tire. Jan talks up low pressure as the method for 
 minimizing flats, and I know that environmental factors for punctures are 
 very local in nature, but I ride in the Sierra foothills and Bay Area, run 
 low pressures (around 50 psi), and get lots o' flats.
  
 I don't track mileage closely, but I added the tires in May 2014, and the 
 rear tire was reading as 'halfway worn' as of September 2014 (Jan 
 stipulates that when the longitudinal grooves disappear, the tire is 
 halfway worn). Again, not sure of my mileage, but will certainly be less 
 than 3,000 miles on the rear tire. I've toured very lightly with them 
 (maybe 8 days all told), maybe that was a factor.
  
 Verdict is that I'll be going back to Panaracer Pasela Tourgards, or 
 Marathon Supremes. I really liked Paselas for the price, and had very few 
 flats on the Marathons.


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[RBW] Help Choosing Tires - Jack Brown vs. Compass Stampede Pass

2014-11-29 Thread SeanMac
Hi folks,

Now that the indoor riding season has begun, my thoughts have turned to 
getting my bikes ready for the 2015 outdoor season.  Specifically, I am 
looking for new tires for my Black Mountain Cycles road bike.  This bike 
was new to me last summer, and is really a joy to ride.  It is my go-to 
bike, fast rides, long rides - you name it this bike can do it.  

Last summer I had it set-up with some old tires I had lying around - a 
Rolly-Polly in the front and a Roughy-Toughy in the back.  For 2015 I am 
looking for something new.  My hope is to find the best combination of 
speed-comfort-durability.  

The bike is designed to fit tires up to 33.3 mm wide.  I've narrowed 
down my selections to the Jack Brown and the Stampede Pass.  Lots of folks 
here seem to like Jack Brown, but I don't read much about the Stampede Pass 
tires.  Has anyone used both?  I would love to hear a comparison.  I would 
also be interested in any long-term reviews of the Stampede Pass tires.

A third tires I considered was the Challenge Strada Bianca.  However, from 
what I have read, this seems to be a tire that is difficult to mount (I've 
got Open Pro rims) and not terribly durable.  Any thoughts on this tired 
(especially compared to the other two I am looking at) would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sean
Buffalo,NY

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[RBW] Re: Help Choosing Tires - Jack Brown vs. Compass Stampede Pass

2014-11-29 Thread SeanMac
Patrick -
Indoor riding season is what takes place when you get 90 inches of snow in 
a three day period!  Given the chance, I would rather be out on my cross 
country skis.  However, on the trainer I can get in a good workout in much 
less time than I can on the skis - at least when you figure in all of the 
time it takes  to prepare to go skiing.

From your comment, I am assuming that you prefer Compass tires over 
Clement's when the vast majority of your riding is done on pavement.

Sean

On Saturday, November 29, 2014 11:23:10 AM UTC-5, Deacon Patrick wrote:

 What's an indoor riding season? Grin. 

 I've ridden both JB's and Compass (Barlow Pass) on my QuickBeam, and the 
 Compass tires (feather light) are an amazing joy to ride on pavement and 
 dirt roads that aren't too loose. However, since I ride a lot of looser 
 dirt and single track in combo with steep, I prefer my Clement's. 

 With abandon,
 Patrick

 On Saturday, November 29, 2014 9:14:38 AM UTC-7, SeanMac wrote:

 Hi folks,

 Now that the indoor riding season has begun, my thoughts have turned to 
 getting my bikes ready for the 2015 outdoor season.  Specifically, I am 
 looking for new tires for my Black Mountain Cycles road bike.  This bike 
 was new to me last summer, and is really a joy to ride.  It is my go-to 
 bike, fast rides, long rides - you name it this bike can do it.  

 Last summer I had it set-up with some old tires I had lying around - a 
 Rolly-Polly in the front and a Roughy-Toughy in the back.  For 2015 I am 
 looking for something new.  My hope is to find the best combination of 
 speed-comfort-durability.  

 The bike is designed to fit tires up to 33.3 mm wide.  I've narrowed 
 down my selections to the Jack Brown and the Stampede Pass.  Lots of folks 
 here seem to like Jack Brown, but I don't read much about the Stampede Pass 
 tires.  Has anyone used both?  I would love to hear a comparison.  I would 
 also be interested in any long-term reviews of the Stampede Pass tires.

 A third tires I considered was the Challenge Strada Bianca.  However, 
 from what I have read, this seems to be a tire that is difficult to mount 
 (I've got Open Pro rims) and not terribly durable.  Any thoughts on this 
 tired (especially compared to the other two I am looking at) would be 
 appreciated.

 Thanks,
 Sean
 Buffalo,NY



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Re: [RBW] Roadeo first ride impressions

2014-01-29 Thread SeanMac
Love your bike, Paul.  I've been lusting after a Roadeo and, to this point, 
have kept my lust at bay.  I hope that seeing your bike does not push me 
over the edge!

I'm glad to hear that your able to get back on the bike after some time 
off.  Having a beautiful new bike to ride hopefully will keep you motivated 
and keep a big smile on your face.

Sean

On Wednesday, January 29, 2014 8:13:42 PM UTC-5, Ron Mc wrote:

 Beautiful bike Paul, and thanks for your report.  What do you think of the 
 Selle Regal?  

 On Wednesday, January 29, 2014 6:48:01 PM UTC-6, Patrick Moore wrote:

 Hell, Paul, don't mind me: enjoy your brifters. I finally got back to 
 indexed shifting after 18 years, when listmembers very kindly set me up 
 with very cheap, used (whoops! didn't mean to intersect that other thread!) 
 Dura Ace 7400 components, that I just had to use indexed.

 It looks like a very nice bike and, if it makes anyone happier, I am 
 jealous.


 On Wed, Jan 29, 2014 at 5:45 PM, Paul G pauld...@gmail.com wrote:

 Patrick Moore,

 My Fuji has friction downtube shifters (I'm quite comfortable with them) 
 and I did custom-order downtube shifter bosses for the Roadeo to allow the 
 option if I so deem that necessary in the future. I'm definitely not 
 married to the Ergos by any means, but I got a great deal on them and they 
 certainly are very comfortable...and look snazzy too. :-)

 Paul


 On Wednesday, January 29, 2014 4:37:26 PM UTC-8, Patrick Moore wrote:

 A very nice and not at all excessively minimalist build. 
 Congratulations I rejoice in bikes that are not laden with accessories 
 (though 2/4 of mine are just so laden). The only black mark is that it 
 doesn't have dt shifters. 

 Patrick left 43 behind long ago Moore, who doesn't mind that at all, 
 at all!


 On Wed, Jan 29, 2014 at 5:33 PM, Paul G pauld...@gmail.com wrote:


 https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0fVUs_He3w4/Uumds2_4ROI/ACw/KAjbo73YTK0/s1600/DSC_2269.jpg
 It's taken a long time for me to do a proper ride after building up 
 this fine frameset due to poor air quality in my area. I was finally able 
 to ride it about 35 miles on flat and rolling terrain with a couple 
 stiff, 
 8-9% climbs of a mile or so.

 You can refer to this other 
 posthttps://groups.google.com/d/msg/rbw-owners-bunch/nDgzvehsQCw/Na3a5dUgNG0JI
  made in a previous thread regarding build details. It is setup in a 
 minimal way for pure road riding with the only accessories being bottle 
 cages, a Mark's Toolwrap, and lights as needed. I have a wireless 
 computer 
 for it, but have not installed it yet...and kinda don't want to in some 
 ways for aesthetic reasons; the Dream bars and Nitto Deluxe stem look so 
 classic without the computer. It weighs about 23 lbs. with saddle, cages 
 and pedals.

 I'm 43 years old, 5' 11 and weigh 158 lbs. PBH is 89cm, so a 61cm 
 frame is what I chose according to standard Rivendell sizing conventions. 

 I'm just getting back into shape after a year and a half of poor 
 health. My other road bike which the Roadeo effectively replaces is a 
 58cm 
 1985 Team Fuji with vintage components.

 I think the Hallmark of this bike is the fantastic descending. It is 
 so stable and intuitive that it's just pure joy to fly down fast instead 
 of 
 white-knuckled. Great stuff! The bike is quite stiff in the bottom 
 bracket 
 and has that surging feeling when pedaling hard that modern bikes have 
 and 
 that the old Fuji does not. The chain stays are fairly beefy too for a 
 steel bike. The ride quality is quite firm, but not punishing at all 
 (28mm 
 Grand Bois Cerf, 80 psi rear, 70 psi front). It totally fits the sporty 
 nature of the bike and has lots of lively, low-frequency vibrations that 
 are organic in nature. Whether that's from the wheels, tires, or frame, I 
 don't know, but it's really nice.

 My new Riv-approved riding position is very comfortable with the bars 
 right at saddle height at the moment. It seems to provide a good 
 compromise 
 between light and hard pedaling effort. I'll be using it to train for my 
 first organized century since the summer of 2011 and I think it'll be a 
 spectacular bicycle for me!

 Paul

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[RBW] Re: FS: Rivendell Roadeo 59cm; Phil Wood, Nitto, Sugino, Brooks, etc.

2014-01-07 Thread SeanMac
Adam,

Good luck with the new baby.  He/she will be a wonderful addition to your 
life.  

Your bike is beautiful.  If I had the spare cash I would be delighted to 
take it off of your hands.  Unfortunately, my bank account does not allow 
me to help you out right now.  Best of luck.

Sean

On Sunday, January 5, 2014 1:19:43 PM UTC-5, Adam DeFayette wrote:

 $3750; price includes professional packing  shipping.

 Pictures: 
 https://plus.google.com/photos/101616295581563373309/albums/5965472136228528865

 This is a very lightly used Quickbeam Green Roadeo. I purchased this 
 from the first run of Roadeos, and only road it a few hundred miles over 
 the last few summers in Upstate New York. This green/cream-colored frame is 
 offset with lots of antique brown leather, and nickel-colored components. 
 The overall effect is very beautiful; one of my best designed bikes, and 
 I'm sorry to have to sell it. Why I'm selling? My wife and I are are 
 expecting a child soon, and I am liquidating my stuff so that we can put 
 away some savings. I will miss this bike, and really wish that I had ridden 
 it more.

 Everything is in like-new condition.  There are a couple tiny scratches 
 in the paint, and I have pictured them - nothing serious or very 
 noticeable, and certainly no dents.  Honestly, I did not even notice them 
 until looking the bike over for sale. The frame was treated with T9 per 
 Rivendell's method. Estimated value new is upwards of $4750. Save yourself 
 a grand, and the wait time!

 I have included pictures from various times in the bike's life - the most 
 recent pictures are the indoors series against the brick wall. 

 Components: (Prices are mostly current Riv Prices)

 Brooks B17 Narrow Saddle ($108) [great condition, hardly broken-in]
 Tange-Levin Headset ($60)
 Nitto S-83 Seat Post ($97)
 Brooks Challenge Seat Bag ($90) 
 Shimano Tiagra Brakes  Levers ($110)
 Two (2) King Bottle Cages ($36)
 Nitto Technomic Stem 10cm ($50)
 Silver Shifters ($78)
 Phil Wood Bottom Bracket ($138)
 Wheels: Phil Hubs (Freewheel) laced with DT Competition Double-Butted 
 Spokes to Velocity Aerohead Rims ($700)
 Challenge Parigi/Roubaix 23mm Tires ($150)
 Sugino Mighty Tour Crankset, 170mm, 34/50T ($300)
 Shimano Freewheel 7spd, 13-28 F($20)
 Nitto 42cm 'Dream' Handlebar ($80)
 Campagnolo Mirage Front Deraileur ($50)
 Shimano XT Rear Derailleur ($100)
 VP Thin Gripster Pedals ($67)

 Lots of Extras: Blinkies, Schwalbe Tubes, Cateye Strada Cyclometer, Soma 
 mini-pump, Brass Bell, VO Skewers, Leather Bar Tape, Cables  Housing 
 ($100-$200)

 Questions? Comments? Contact me here, or email me at 
 adam.de...@gmail.comjavascript: 

 Thank you for your interest!

 Adam




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[RBW] Re: Brooks leather bar tape - care feeding tips?

2013-12-17 Thread SeanMac
I've had Brooks tape on my Bob Brown custom bike since I received it in the 
Fall of 2007.  It has held up very well.  To the best of my recollection, I 
don't think I have ever done anything to treat it - though I may have 
smeared some Brooks Proofide on it at one time.  I don't know if the 
quality of the tape has changed over the years, but I think that the tape 
that I installed was not stitched together.  Whatever the case, I have been 
very happy with this product.  

Sean

On Tuesday, December 17, 2013 6:34:17 PM UTC-5, Deacon Patrick wrote:

 Great point about multiple pieces stitched together, Michael. In that 
 case, I would stretch each piece as if it were separate so the stitched 
 area was not stressed, and same for that spot when wrapping, just pulling 
 it taught without stretching that few inch area.

 With abandon,
 Patrick

 On Tuesday, December 17, 2013 4:28:01 PM UTC-7, Michael wrote:

 Whatever you do...

 don't pull too hard on the split section of the tape or it will separate. 
 Some of their lengths of tape are in two pieces.

 Yes...sadly...Brooks doesn't have all the lengths as one piece, which I 
 think is unacceptable for the price they charge for them.

 If it does separate a smidge, a little electrical tape on the back helps 
 it stay together.

 Worst case, you could decoratively twine that section!



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[RBW] Re: fs: Rivendell Rambouillet - 58cm blue

2013-11-18 Thread SeanMac
Congratulations on the sale.  If it had been one size bigger I would have 
jumped on it.  Good luck with your new bike.

Sean

On Monday, November 18, 2013 5:39:54 PM UTC-5, Eric wrote:

 This bad boy has been SOLD! 

 Thanks!

 - Eric

 PS - Someone buy my Fatty Rumpkin tires!! 


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Re: [RBW] New stuff on my Roadeo

2013-11-15 Thread SeanMac
I've had my eye on this one as well.  Its a deal, but I am not crazy about 
the color (though its not really that bad).  I would also rather have a 
threaded stem.  I'm also somewhat torn between this bike and a Hilsen.  
Given all of that, the Roadeo is still pretty darn tempting.  (as as the 
blue Rambo that is also available).  

Sean

On Friday, November 15, 2013 6:59:05 PM UTC-5, Tim Gavin wrote:

 It's my size and gorgeous, but it would fit in between my Giordana 
 (gofast) and Riv Road Standard (gofun).  Tight company, there.  Especially 
 for a cheapskate like me.


 On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 5:24 PM, cyclotourist 
 cyclot...@gmail.comjavascript:
  wrote:

 1) Slow bike selling season (people gearing up for holidays/recoverying 
 from summer)
 2) High starting bid (people don't traul ebay looking for reasonable 
 prices, they want a deal!)
 3) Overpriced for a second hand bike, although never built up (my opinion)
 4) Don't like threadless or color (I like both)


 Cheers,
 David

 it isn't a contest. Just enjoy the ride. - Seth Vidal





 On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 3:11 PM, Peter Morgano 
 uscpet...@gmail.comjavascript:
  wrote:

 Not to hijack a thread but why isn't this selling? Second time listing 
 it for this guy. I could do it but I would have to clear out a few from the 
 herd.
  
  

 http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rivendell-Roadeo-Bicycle-Frame-Set-59-cm-/321249434571?pt=US_Bicycles_Frameshash=item4acbf55bcb
  


 On Fri, Nov 15, 2013 at 6:09 PM, Patrick Moore 
 bert...@gmail.comjavascript:
  wrote:

 I liked the look of Mark's Roadeo in a recent Blug post. Does he use 11?

 Don: curious why you like 11 instead of 10? (Not trying to sneak a 
 criticism in under guise of a question.) I could usefully add #10 to the 
 Fargo's current 9, for another intermediate low gear, but I can't hack 10s 
 the way I can hack 9s and fewer (I mean, I don't like stock 
 configurations, 
 but I can't adapt 10s without too much hassle.)

 Photo, please?


 On Tue, Nov 12, 2013 at 8:50 PM, Don Compton dpc...@gmail.comjavascript:
  wrote:

 I totally ride and believe in  Rivendell bikes. But, I like the new 
 11sp stuff. I am going with Campy 11sp. with a TA Zephyr 110 crank. 34 
 inner ring with a 12-29 cassette that works for me. The shift lever along 
 with my Shimano brake release gives me some workability with wide tires. 
 For me, its a perfect combo.
 Don

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[RBW] Re: Gorgeous Autumn

2013-10-27 Thread SeanMac
Stunning photographs.  It looks like you have had the opportunity to ride 
through a dreamland.

Sean

On Sunday, October 27, 2013 10:28:24 AM UTC-4, Michael Hechmer wrote:

 Beautiful, but for those of us who are geographically challenged, could 
 you let us know exactly where nagano is?

 Michael

 On Sunday, October 27, 2013 9:50:40 AM UTC-4, Takashi wrote:

 Hi all,
 Trees are becoming very colorful here, so I thought I'd share it:
 http://www.flickr.com/photos/77318553@N08/10511863834/

 I came home from work by noon on Friday, so I had 2.5 days of weekend.
 I thought about camping, but typhoon was approaching near here on 
 Saturday. (Actually, typhoon was gone and weather got fine by Saturday 
 noon.)
 So I figured that I'd just go half-day ramble 3 times.
 I rode my Moulton on Friday, Bike Friday on Saturday (confusing), and 
 Hunqapillar on Sunday.

 A set of photos to prove that I had wonderful 2.5-day-weekend:
 http://www.flickr.com/photos/77318553@N08/sets/72157636969829694/

 Takashi



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[RBW] Re: RAGBRAI ebook $.99

2013-10-27 Thread SeanMac
Thanks for the tip.  I just ordered it.  I've never done RAGBRAI, but have 
always wanted to.  Perhaps this will inspire a trip to Iowa.  

Sean


On Sunday, October 27, 2013 1:09:57 PM UTC-4, velomann wrote:

 Only peripherally Riv related. Haven't read it yet, but figured fo a buck, 
 what the heck.

 Rumble Yell: Discovering America's Biggest Bike Ride by Brian 
 David Bruns
 Link: http://amzn.com/B00CU3PGKO


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[RBW] Re: Brooks Leather Bar Tape

2013-10-20 Thread SeanMac
Brooks tape, in my opinion, is well worth the $.  I used black Brooks tape 
to wrap the bars of my Bob Brown custom back in the fall of 2007.  That 
tape is still on my bike - enduring over 10,000 miles of riding as well as 
my winter rides on the trainer in my basement.

Sean

On Sunday, October 20, 2013 11:00:49 AM UTC-4, Clayton wrote:

 I like Brooks tape. For me, it is probably going to work out to being 
 about the same price as cork. The reason? I have unrapped and rerapped My 
 Brooks tape about 13-15 times. Changing brake levers, handlebars, adjusting 
 spacing, making room up top for aero bars etc. It is durable..very 
 durable. I just rub in some Obenaufs or whatever occasionally. It is not 
 cushy however


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[RBW] Rambouillet or San Marcos

2013-10-13 Thread SeanMac
Hi everyone,

I am searching for a new bike.  I currently have a go-fast(ish) bike, a Bob 
Brown custom, which can fit a tire no larger than 23 X 700.  I also have a 
Trek 520 Touring bike from the early 1990s.  I am searching for a bike to 
fit between these two models.

Years ago I nearly purchased a Rivendell Rambouillet (I got the Bob Brown 
instead), so I have a sentimental attachment to that bike.  Every now and 
then a Ram appears here on the list or on ebay - I always find these 
listings to be very tempting.  However, I wonder how much difference there 
is between a used Ram and a new San Marcos.  The paint finish and headbadge 
of the bikes do differ, but how much do the ride qualities differ?  At this 
point, is it a better value to invest $900 in a used Rambo frame or $900 in 
a new San Marcos?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Sean

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Re: [RBW] Re: New AHH 56cm 650B Build

2013-07-28 Thread SeanMac
Simply Beautiful!

Sean
EA, NY

On Saturday, July 27, 2013 9:31:41 PM UTC-4, David Hays wrote:

 I switched out the silver side pulls for the Dia Comp 750-thank you Peter- 
 and mounted the VO Zeppelins and a Tubus rack.
 I'm pleased. Thanks everyone for the suggestions and support.
 David  


 https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sv5e7UQosI8/UfR0cfAlLlI/AFg/hrC2JHscN4Q/s1600/AHH-Build-7.24.13.jpg


 On Saturday, March 9, 2013 9:25:11 AM UTC-5, Davidbea wrote:

 Thanks. I'll look into Knogs.
 I'm also looking to on fenders and on three of my 'almost' Rivendells I 
 have and am pleased with the hammered VO fenders. I'd like to use them 
 again but they don't make them wide enough for the Col de la Vie tires I'm 
 starting with. Anybody have any suggestions? Also can I run the famous 
 Hetre tires on the AHH? With fenders?
 Thanks.
 David

  
 On Mar 9, 2013, at 12:36 AM, Ablejack able...@gmail.com wrote:

 With friction shifters you can run just about anything. For indexed 
 shifting you need to be a bit matchy. The deraillers do not really matter 
 so much. The only issue is that an eight speed chain might be too wide for 
 something like a 10 or 11 speed derailler. As far as shifting all of them 
 basically do whatever the cable instructs. It's the indexed shifter that 
 throws or pulls a certain length of cable to the derailler. With friction, 
 the rider does it by feel and muscle memory. Many riders (esp. 
 cyclotourists and randonneurs) prefer this because it is more trouble free. 
 Indexed shifting is a bit finicky with cable tension (aligning the rear 
 derailler with the rear cogs) and new cables often have to be adjusted as 
 they break-in and stretch a bit. 
 My vote for a crankset would be for a wide range double. Usually people 
 run 46-30 or thereabout. You can get just about the same range of usable 
 gearing and it makes front shifting a breeze. Basically you just throw it 
 all the way either way whenever you need. But I understand the lure of 
 having some huge gear you never use! ;)
 Excellent bike choice! I love riding fat 650Bs! Oh and at least get some 
 cheap lights to be seen in case you find yourself out there in the dark or 
 even bad weather. Even Knogs or something- Never nothing!

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[RBW] Saluki

2012-12-05 Thread SeanMac
I have noticed several Salukis for sale recently on ebay.  I know that this 
bike was produced before the Bleriot, but I have had a somewhat difficult 
time finding information about it on the web.  I am hoping that a list 
member or three might be able to shed some light on this bike for me. 

 I'm in the market for a bike for longer rides and perhaps some short 
touring - Erie Canal, C  O Trail, etc.  I've had my eyes on a Sam for some 
time, but have not yet pulled the trigger (might on the all-blue Sam - what 
a deal).  Would a Saluki be well-suited for this kind of riding or is it 
really designed as a country bike / credit card tourer / rambler / century 
ride bike?

How would the Saluki compare to a Homer?

I can't seem to find a chart that matches PBH to Saluki sizing.  Should I 
simply use the general chart on the Riv site, matching the 650b section to 
my height to choose the correct Saluki?

Thanks,

Sean

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[RBW] Re: Saluki

2012-12-05 Thread SeanMac

Thank you for all of your help today.  I spent the day on jury duty, so I 
am a bit slow in sending thanks.

When I returned home I had my son help me to re-measure my PBH.  We ended 
up taking several measurements, typically getting a PBH between 86 - 87.  
Based on Riv's chart, his seems to put me at a 56 Sam, a 58-60 Saluki (or 
Bleriot) and 58-61 Homer.

I don't need a new bike any time soon, but it would be nice to take 
advantage of a deal.  However, since a new bike is a bike purchase, I want 
to make the best decision possible - even if that means not buying 
anything.  The problem, of course, is that one can never know for sure what 
deals will come by.  However, since I live in Buffalo, it is pretty 
unlikely that I will be outdoors on a bike any time soon.  I probably 
should hang tight and wait for a deal that I can't pass up.

Sorry for thinking out loud.  I do appreciate all or your help / advice.  
Someday I'll make up my mind!

Sean

On Wednesday, December 5, 2012 10:51:52 AM UTC-5, Frank wrote:

 I have a 62cm Saluki and a 63cm AHH and my PBH is 89.5. Mine are set up 
 differently, but if I were to go down the like-to-like line on a 
 per-component basis, they would be very similar. I love them both, ride 
 them both almost equally, and I've done light touring on both. 

 I've also ridden each of them loaded with 5 days worth of clothing and 
 stuff to support an extended vacation / stay in PDX on the Seattle to 
 Portland ride in years past. I didn't weigh them, but would guess that with 
 two panniers and a Hoss pretty fully packed I probably had 45lbs. of jank 
 plus 165lbs of me on the bike. Both bikes worked fine at 100m/d, though I'd 
 say they were close to the limit.

 In any event, the Saluki is a great bike and would be well suited to the 
 riding you describe, though so would the Sam. Can't see how you could go 
 wrong either way.

 On Wednesday, December 5, 2012 5:35:26 AM UTC-8, SeanMac wrote:

 I have noticed several Salukis for sale recently on ebay.  I know that 
 this bike was produced before the Bleriot, but I have had a somewhat 
 difficult time finding information about it on the web.  I am hoping that a 
 list member or three might be able to shed some light on this bike for me. 

  I'm in the market for a bike for longer rides and perhaps some short 
 touring - Erie Canal, C  O Trail, etc.  I've had my eyes on a Sam for some 
 time, but have not yet pulled the trigger (might on the all-blue Sam - what 
 a deal).  Would a Saluki be well-suited for this kind of riding or is it 
 really designed as a country bike / credit card tourer / rambler / century 
 ride bike?

 How would the Saluki compare to a Homer?

 I can't seem to find a chart that matches PBH to Saluki sizing.  Should I 
 simply use the general chart on the Riv site, matching the 650b section to 
 my height to choose the correct Saluki?

 Thanks,

 Sean



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[RBW] Re: Love my new blue Sam

2012-12-01 Thread SeanMac
Great looking bike.  I hope that you have a smile on my face whenever you 
and Sam are out on the town.

Sean

On Saturday, December 1, 2012 2:38:37 PM UTC-5, Joe Bernard wrote:

 Keep an eye here and on Ebay for a Mark's Tool Wrap, too. I love mine, and 
 think it a shame Riv stopped making them. It straps to your saddle easily, 
 but in my case usually gets tossed into the saddlebag of whatever bike I'm 
 riding. A most excellent product. 
  
 Joe Bernard
 Vallejo, CA.

 On Saturday, December 1, 2012 9:22:57 AM UTC-8, Marc Irwin wrote:

 Try the Riv Roll up, I was in the same quandry, couldn't get an Acorn no 
  matter how patient I was.  The Riv model works great!

 Marc

 On Saturday, December 1, 2012 12:14:36 AM UTC-5, John Stowe wrote:

 It's been sitting around in various (slow-moving) stages of completion 
 since the summer as parts trickled in, many liberated from members of this 
 group. I got pretty busy once the semester got going, but I managed to 
 finish off the wheels (and several trips to the hardware store for bolts 
 and bits) over the turkey holiday and ride it for ~60 miles this week. 
 Enjoying all the qualities that folks here know, and were the reasons to 
 upgrade from my cyclocross city bike: smooth, even ride, comfortable 
 handling, inquisitive head-turning, and a smile on the rider. And no toe 
 overlap (barely) on my size 14s, to boot!

 The other huge, major, wonderful upgrade over my previous bikes is the 
 dynamo lighting. Such a huge difference when night classes are 12 mi away, 
 mostly with no street lights!

 One cell phone pic to prove it can carry packages to the UPS store (and 
 later cupcakes to home, by request of the spousal unit). More will surely 
 follow, once I figure out how to work the new DSLR that appeared on my 
 birthday. Mr. Hillborne is likely to be the most patient model I can find 
 to practice on.


 https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IIfCCvn6xqk/ULmLqS9P9lI/A6I/VRQs1gwiogE/s1600/IMG_0037.jpg

 Coupla tweaks still to be made: 
 - the Bosco Bullmoose bars are great for riding around town in a suit, 
 and will be fantastic in about a year when a child seat gets added to the 
 cockpit area. But I might need to swap them out for drop bars for the 
 longer ride to school. The wind along the river chooses to be a friend one 
 day and a foe the next. Usually when I'm already running late.
 - the wire that came with the taillight, for connecting to the 
 headlight, was designed to reach the fork crown, not the front of a rack, 
 so for the moment it's somewhat inelegantly running along one of the top 
 tubes until I rig up a longer one.
 - stainless steel fenders are sitting at home waiting to get installed, 
 but the stays are way too long to be mountable and my hacksaw wandered off 
 to the home of a relative and has yet to return. Also needed for cutting 
 the kickstand down to size. Of course, I've never passed up the opportunity 
 to get more tools - maybe it's time to add a bolt cutter to the collection!
 - still looking for a toolkit to mount on the back of the saddle or 
 somewhere else out-of-the-way-but-always-there. I like the idea of Acorn's 
 roll 
 bag http://www.acornbags.com/rollbag.html, but they seem to be 
 impossible to actually purchase. Maybe someone with a sewing machine will 
 be looking for stocking stuffer ideas.

 Overall, though, I'm just happy it's ride-able, and that the gamble of 
 sinking in all the time, effort and money with no test ride has paid off 
 with such a fine machine. And of course finally packing away the workstand 
 is good for intra-household relations! I have enjoyed lurking and 
 collecting advice on this forum, and the influence definitely shows in the 
 final product. Thanks, all!

 -John
 Washington, DC



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[RBW] Re: GAP Ride Semi Report

2012-10-08 Thread SeanMac
Kelly,

Thanks for the report and photos.  The trip that you took is one that I 
hope to do with my son someday.  Your photos helped me to gain a better 
sense of the conditions of the trail.  It was great to see (and read) that 
such a wide variety of bikes could handle the trail.

I do have one question.  I'm looking to buy a Sam Hillborne sometime in the 
not to distant future and one of my concerns is deciding between Noodle 
bars and Moustache bars.  I've never been on 'stache bars, but I find the 
idea kind of cool.  I'm wondering if the people who rode bikes on your tour 
were happy with their moustache bars - did they seem to enjoy the upright 
hand position while being on the trail or would they have preferred the 
Noodles - which seem to provide more opportunity to move hands around to 
avoid getting numb fingers?

Thanks,

Sean
East Aurora, NY

On Sunday, October 7, 2012 7:20:42 PM UTC-4, Kelly wrote:

 I just got back from the CO and Allegheny Ride between DC and Pittsburgh. 
   It turned out great with rain and a 10 person contingent of great people. 
   Seven from St Louis and three from Detroit.  2 Bombadils and 2 Atlantis's 
 in the group.  
 List members that road were Amit, Tom, and I.   Amit and Tom made the 
 entire ride while I caught the flue and bailed with 70ish miles to go.   
 (expensive but damn I was dead in my tracks)   Doesn't matter, the trip for 
 me couldn't have been better.  Even finding a way back to the car was an 
 adventure.We also lost Amits brother to a knee injury suffered from a 
 fall.   

 it was a pleasure and I'm grateful to have met and rode with Amit, Sumeet, 
 and Tom D out of Detroit.  They added an extra dimension to the ride and 
 were fast friends to all from St Louis.  

 We were greeted upon our arrival in DC by Michael R on his A Homer HIlsen. 
   Great guy and enjoyed spending part of the day with him.  
 http://www.flickr.com/photos/tksleeper/8064271265/in/set-72157631715248107


 it felt special to be a part of such a great group of people and to share 
 it with my wife.   

 So with no further ado, here are the bike porn photos. 


 http://www.flickr.com/photos/tksleeper/sets/72157631715248107/with/8064271265/

 Enjoy

 Kelly


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[RBW] Re: pre-ordered a blue Sam Hillborne a few minutes ago

2012-04-17 Thread SeanMac
Congratulations on your new bike.  

I've spent the last few months trying to convince myself that it is okay to 
pull the trigger on my first Rivendell.  In fact, I've come close a few 
times to purchasing one of the new blue 56 Sam's as well.  When you finally 
do get the bike, I hope that it brings a big smile to your face.

On Thursday, April 12, 2012 8:16:33 PM UTC-4, cbone97 wrote:

 Just wanted to share the joy.  My first Riv and my first bike in a 
 long while (since mountain biking in college about 12-13 years ago). 
 Late last year I was looking hard at the Hunq but at a PBH of 87.5, 
 felt I was on the fence between sizes and couldn't commit. The 56 Sam 
 should be perfect and I really like the new blue. 

 I'm planning to go with Falcon friction shifters, Albatross or Bosco 
 bar, and the biggest Marathons I can run on a set of Velocity Dyad 
 wheels - probably fender-less.  I already have a Brooks B68 and 
 Lambda / Grip King pedals.  Hopefully I can recycle the XT derailers, 
 XT rear hub, and White Industries front hub off my old, barely used 
 mtn bike. 

 I like the idea/looks of the crank chainguard as shown on Riv's blue 
 Sam pic.  Not sure if it'd be best to get the two speed crank that 
 comes with this guard or add it to the standard XD2.  Any opinions? 

 And does anyone have a Sackville XS saddlebag in grid gray they'd 
 sell? 



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[RBW] Re: Using a Sam Hillborne as a go fast-ish bike

2012-04-01 Thread SeanMac
I have spent the last few days reading a lot about Sam Hillborne!  It seems 
clear that people really do love this bike.  Sam seems like a bike that can 
do many things, though perhaps it is best suited to being somewhat of a 
workhorse bike - taking people and their gear to work, around town, or out 
into the country for a leisurely ride.  However, it does not seem made to 
be a fast bike; rather, a comfortable bike that can be set up to go 
fast-ish, if one really wanted to do so.

As I try to really analyze what I need a bike to do I've tried to really 
think about the riding that I do and the bikes that I have.  The majority 
of my riding is relatively fastish recreational / fitness riding.  I do 
ride with some groups on occasion, but a typical ride is 1 to 3 hours.  I 
hope to do more rides of the 50 mile plus variety, but typically I do this 
only a few times a year.  For this purpose, my custom go fast bike (with 
maximum 25 mm tires) works pretty well.

I also have a 1993 Trek 520 touring bike.  Set up with Honjo fenders, this 
bike currently cannot fit tires more than 28 mm.  I had the bike out the 
other day and was somewhat surprised by the quality of ride.  Once it go up 
to speed (which took some work) it felt pretty good, almost quick, in 
fact.  This bike is designed to carry bags and gear for extended rides on 
the road.  I use it for that purpose every few years, but typically it is a 
bike I ride on wet roads or early in the spring or fall when I want to keep 
my custom-built go fast bike clean.

So, I continue trying to figure out what bike would best fit between these 
two.  I'm somewhat torn between a go fastish Rambo bike (which seems best 
suited for road riding), or a not so fast bike (Sam Hillborne) that has the 
advantage of being able to carry more weight than a rambo bike and also be 
able to handle a bit more rugged terrain, such as the stone dust found on 
my local bike trails (like the Erie Canal Pathway).  The Sam also seems to 
be better suited for a riding around town and/or commute to work bike, both 
of which also are points in Sam's favor.

As you can probably tell, I really do seem to be leaning toward a Sam.  I 
do like the new blue color (though I am not sold on the double top tube).  
I also like the the new Sam's use sidepull brakes, as I am not a huge fan 
of canti's.

Does my reasoning make sense?  Now, if I can only decide which handlebar to 
try.  I've never ridding on anything but traditional bars (noodles and the 
like), but the Sam does seem to call for something else.  I'm really 
intrigued by moustache bars, but don't really know if I'm willing to go so 
far outside of my comfort zone (though a double top tube is already outside 
of that zone - perhaps its better to leap into new territory with this 
bike!)  What is the consensus on the ideal handlebar for the Sam? 

Thanks,

Sean

On Sunday, March 25, 2012 7:13:21 PM UTC-4, SeanMac wrote:

 I'm considering pulling the trigger on one of the new blue Sam 
 Hillborne's.  They look like really wonderful bikes.  Strong, versatile, 
 attractive are words that come to mind when I think about this bike.  These 
 are qualities that I find attractive.  However, I also like to go fastish.  
 Can I do this with a Sam as well?

 I'm pushing 45 years old.  A few years ago I had a custom made go-fast 
 bike built for me.  That bike goes fast, but is limited in what it can do.  
 I also have a Trek 520 Touring bike.  This bike, obviously, is built for 
 touring.  Its not very fast, nor very lively.  In short, my Trek isn't much 
 fun to ride.  I'm looking for a bike to fit in between these two bikes -- 
 one that will be able to carry a few bags and ride on stone dust bike paths 
 (such as the Erie Canal path), but one that will not feel sluggish to ride 
 (like my Trek).

 Most of the time, when I see photos of Sams, the bikes seem to be set up 
 to be workhorses -- carrying a collection of bags and racks.  I want to be 
 able to do this with a bike (thus the attraction to the bike in the first 
 place).  However, I would like to use noodle bars and go on fast-ish club 
 and recreational rides as well.  In fact, the vast majority of rides will 
 be  20 - 30 mile out for fun and exercise rides.  Is the Sam well suited 
 to this as well, or will it likely feel more like my Trek 520?  Most likely 
 I would set up a Sam with Noodle bars and tires such as Roly-Poly or Jack 
 Browns.

 I'm also considering having a custom built randonneur bike -- one that 
 will be able to carry some load but also feel quick and lively to ride.  
 However, if the Sam will meet my needs, it certainly would be a less 
 expensive alternative.  I don't think that my body has any proportions that 
 would make me difficult to fit (5ft, 11 inches tall, PBH 87.5, arm length 
 35 inches) so I don't think that I *need* to go custom (though it sure is 
 fun to do so!).

 Any thoughts on whether a Sam would be a good choice would be appreciated.

 Sean

[RBW] Re: Using a Sam Hillborne as a go fast-ish bike

2012-04-01 Thread SeanMac
I really do appreciate everyone for sharing their thoughts on this topic.  
It seems as though most people who have a Sam mostly use it for carrying a 
bag or two.  However, if one desired, it is possible, given the proper 
wheels and tires, to make this bike a go-fastish bike, though this is 
probably not the ideal use of a Sam.

Since I already have a narrow tire (25 mm max) bike, I have not need for 
another bike like that.  From what I have read, it seems that a Homer may 
tend toward the faster end of the spectrum, while a Sam is more on the 
slower/load carrying end of the spectrum.  The San Marcos would be the 
budget choice that fits between the Homer and the Sam - with the faster 
feel of a Homer while a bit less load carrying ability than the Sam.  

Does the Bleriot fit closer to a Sam or closer to a San Marcos?  I like the 
single top tube of the Bleriot, but did the Bleriot only come in 650B wheel 
size?

Since I can put together nearly an entire ready-to-ride bike (Sam or San 
Marcos) for the price of a custom frame alone, it seems like one of those 
bikes may be the budget conscious choice for me.

The other option, of course, is to jump on a great deal on a used bike.  
Truth be told, if there was cash on hand, that probably would already have 
been done!  This is where I really appreciate the layaway option that 
Rivendell is currently providing.  That plan makes it a bit easier to 
obtain a new frame from Riv World Headquarters.

Sean

On Tuesday, March 27, 2012 1:29:53 PM UTC-4, danmc wrote:

 I  had a 56 Sam STT and for me it was definitely more of a country 
 bike than a go fast-ish bike. Started with roly-polys and Noodles but 
 the tires just felt too narrow. Switched to Marathons then threw in 
 the towel. I ended up getting a Ram as the go fast-ish and saving the 
 pennies for the AHH as a country bike. 

 The San Marcos seems like a good option. It is not a touring bike but 
 can take racks and carry a small-ish load. Designed for 32-35mm tires. 
 Lighter tubing than the Sam or AHH so will probably feel more 
 responsive. 

 Good luck in the search. 

 Dan 





 On Mar 25, 4:13 pm, SeanMac seanm...@gmail.com wrote: 
  I'm considering pulling the trigger on one of the new blue Sam 
  Hillborne's.  They look like really wonderful bikes.  Strong, versatile, 
  attractive are words that come to mind when I think about this bike. 
  These 
  are qualities that I find attractive.  However, I also like to go 
 fastish. 
  Can I do this with a Sam as well? 
  
  I'm pushing 45 years old.  A few years ago I had a custom made go-fast 
 bike 
  built for me.  That bike goes fast, but is limited in what it can do.  I 
  also have a Trek 520 Touring bike.  This bike, obviously, is built for 
  touring.  Its not very fast, nor very lively.  In short, my Trek isn't 
 much 
  fun to ride.  I'm looking for a bike to fit in between these two bikes 
 -- 
  one that will be able to carry a few bags and ride on stone dust bike 
 paths 
  (such as the Erie Canal path), but one that will not feel sluggish to 
 ride 
  (like my Trek). 
  
  Most of the time, when I see photos of Sams, the bikes seem to be set up 
 to 
  be workhorses -- carrying a collection of bags and racks.  I want to be 
  able to do this with a bike (thus the attraction to the bike in the 
 first 
  place).  However, I would like to use noodle bars and go on fast-ish 
 club 
  and recreational rides as well.  In fact, the vast majority of rides 
 will 
  be  20 - 30 mile out for fun and exercise rides.  Is the Sam well 
 suited 
  to this as well, or will it likely feel more like my Trek 520?  Most 
 likely 
  I would set up a Sam with Noodle bars and tires such as Roly-Poly or 
 Jack 
  Browns. 
  
  I'm also considering having a custom built randonneur bike -- one that 
 will 
  be able to carry some load but also feel quick and lively to ride. 
  However, if the Sam will meet my needs, it certainly would be a less 
  expensive alternative.  I don't think that my body has any proportions 
 that 
  would make me difficult to fit (5ft, 11 inches tall, PBH 87.5, arm 
 length 
  35 inches) so I don't think that I *need* to go custom (though it sure 
 is 
  fun to do so!). 
  
  Any thoughts on whether a Sam would be a good choice would be 
 appreciated. 
  
  Sean

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[RBW] Using a Sam Hillborne as a go fast-ish bike

2012-03-26 Thread SeanMac
I'm considering pulling the trigger on one of the new blue Sam 
Hillborne's.  They look like really wonderful bikes.  Strong, versatile, 
attractive are words that come to mind when I think about this bike.  These 
are qualities that I find attractive.  However, I also like to go fastish.  
Can I do this with a Sam as well?

I'm pushing 45 years old.  A few years ago I had a custom made go-fast bike 
built for me.  That bike goes fast, but is limited in what it can do.  I 
also have a Trek 520 Touring bike.  This bike, obviously, is built for 
touring.  Its not very fast, nor very lively.  In short, my Trek isn't much 
fun to ride.  I'm looking for a bike to fit in between these two bikes -- 
one that will be able to carry a few bags and ride on stone dust bike paths 
(such as the Erie Canal path), but one that will not feel sluggish to ride 
(like my Trek).

Most of the time, when I see photos of Sams, the bikes seem to be set up to 
be workhorses -- carrying a collection of bags and racks.  I want to be 
able to do this with a bike (thus the attraction to the bike in the first 
place).  However, I would like to use noodle bars and go on fast-ish club 
and recreational rides as well.  In fact, the vast majority of rides will 
be  20 - 30 mile out for fun and exercise rides.  Is the Sam well suited 
to this as well, or will it likely feel more like my Trek 520?  Most likely 
I would set up a Sam with Noodle bars and tires such as Roly-Poly or Jack 
Browns.

I'm also considering having a custom built randonneur bike -- one that will 
be able to carry some load but also feel quick and lively to ride.  
However, if the Sam will meet my needs, it certainly would be a less 
expensive alternative.  I don't think that my body has any proportions that 
would make me difficult to fit (5ft, 11 inches tall, PBH 87.5, arm length 
35 inches) so I don't think that I *need* to go custom (though it sure is 
fun to do so!).

Any thoughts on whether a Sam would be a good choice would be appreciated.

Sean

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[RBW] Re: After-school bike rides

2012-03-26 Thread SeanMac
Manny,

I'm really impressed.  My students look at me like a crazy man when I tell 
them that I ride my bike 20 + miles, for fun! 

Are you leading an official group, or just an informal ride?  Is this 
something that you do often?

Sean
EA, NY

On Sunday, March 25, 2012 3:43:01 AM UTC-4, Manuel Acosta wrote:

 Battling a nasty cough I'm glad that my students can always make me 
 feel better (albeit spiritually not physically). One of 
 many( hopefully) after-school bike rides. 

 Picture proved it happened: 
 http://flic.kr/s/aHsjzg1Z5B 

 -Manny  Did I mention I like being a teacher? Acosta

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[RBW] rolly-Polly vs. Ruffy Tuffy

2012-03-19 Thread SeanMac
Hello all,

I need to replace the front tire of my bike, a vintage Trek 520
touring bike.  I've got a Rolly-Polly on the back which is in good
shape.  I need a new tire for the front.

In my mind I have two options that would work, either a Rolly Polly
(provides a match with the rear tire) or a Ruffy Tuffy (a near match
with the rear).  The bike will be on the road the majority of the
time.  However, I do anticipate riding on some local trails that are
covered with stone dust (such as the Erie Canal Towpath Trail).

From what I can gather, the Rolly Polly is going to be lighter and
feel more lively than the Ruffy Tuffy (which I've read a number of
people describe as feeling dead).  However, given the fact that I
will be riding this tire on the stone dust trails, might I be wise to
go with the thicker  heavier tire?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Sean
East Aurora, NY

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[RBW] Re: Bleriot Done...

2011-10-29 Thread SeanMac
Sorry if this is a double post, but I'm still learning how the Google 
Groups works.

Scott, that is a great bike.  As an owner of a Bob Brown bike I'm curious 
about how the Bleriot compares to the bike that Bob made for you.  I've got 
a go-fast bike that Bob made for me, but I'm looking for something now that 
can take wider tires, with the Sam H. being the bike that currently has my 
eye.

Thanks.

Sean
East Aurora, NY

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[RBW] Re: Kickstarter pledge drive for the rest of the Yehuda Moon books

2011-10-17 Thread SeanMac
What good news.  Thanks for posting.  I really hope that enough folks
will pledge so that Rick and Brian can print these books.

On Oct 16, 3:35 pm, Stephen S elphk...@gmail.com wrote:
 Rick Smith and Brian Griggs have started a kickstarter pledge drive to
 finish printing the rest of the Yehuda Moon books.

 http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/yehudamoon/kickstand-comics-volum...

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