While updating the little log I keep of my rides, I noticed that I am over 20,000 miles now on Rivendell bikes. I enjoy keeping the data and observing statistics about my rides over time. Like many, I got back into cycling later in life, realizing I needed a good way to get exercise. A bike was a self-bribe to sweat. Also like others, I went through a variety of bikes before figuring out what kind of bike suits me best. I got my first Rivendell, a new Ram in Jan 2007. Later that summer came a used Saluki and the next year, a pre-production '95 Road frame set that I built up. Some oberservations about the bikes:
Of the Rivendell miles, a hair over 10K are on the Ram. The factory Arraya rims are still dead true (although the welded seam can be annoying when I brake in humid conditions). I re packed the Shimano 105 hubs at about 7K miles. Replaced the cassette at 9K (factory was a 9 speed Ultegra. I now have a wider range 8 speed and like it). Chains of course, more often. Original bars, shifters, deraillers, brakes all still work jam up. It's just to the point that I am thinking about re painting. A little sweat induced rust here and there, and a few dings from use. Do I stay with French Blue or get that Brandywine Red I've lusted after ever since seeing that Saluki on Cyclofiend. You know the one :) It's been a great bike, and trouble free. The other 10K miles are split evenly between the Saluki and the Road. I like the Road better, and it is getting more and more use, but the Saluki just has a certain feel to it that makes me keep it around. The road is quicker, the Saluki has a more comfortable long ride position for me. I ride it on RUSA events here and there, did a self supported tour on it, take it out on Sunday afternoon relaxer (and beginner intro) rides. The Road feels quick and handles quick. I have a 54.5 frame which is huge for me, but a 650B conversion makes it work. It also makes for a very nice hands-in-drops descending position. Do I like all of RBWs ideas and quirky approaches? Nope. But I do like the bikes. I think to myself, "This is the most comfortable bike I've ever been on" until I get on one of the others. I do like pedaling un clipped, and fatter tires at lower pressures, and wool, and no chamois pads. Is there a ripple effect? Well, only two other locals have bought Rivs (a Hillborne and a Foy) since seeing mine, but there is a population spurt on leather saddles, wool socks and higher handlebars (Delta stem risers for those who cannot quill) with my local circle. It's nice when someone comments on how comfortable they are. I'm all set I think for bikes now. Hope the next 10K miles are just as enjoyable. Tailwinds -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "RBW Owners Bunch" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
