Thanks for all the advice, suggestions and encouragement. I do find it hard
to believe that a Riv bike would have inferior handling, based on the other
3 I've owned. I will try moving weight for'ard and see what happens.
Saddle: I've got the saddle where I like it, about 3 to 31/2 behind the bb.
Disappointment. I've owned 3 Riv customs, designed for fast road riding, and
all, particularly the second two, have been magnificent in fit, feel and
handling, even with rear loads. So I was hugely disappointed to take my SH
out for a quick 20 mile shakedown ride with 35 lb or so in the rear (An
Patrick,
I'm at a loss why your Hillborne is behaving that way. My experience is
exactly the opposite; after many many miles touring on my Expedition (which
I still love) my Hillborne in comparison is rock solid with a loaded rear
rack, and is one of the easiest bikes to noodle up a steep slope.
Hmmm...
- I'd take a look at the fore/aft saddle placement with respect to the bb.
- I might drop the bars slightly - IIRC, don't your other bikes have bars
1-2 below the saddle?
Both those steps could shift just a bit more weight onto the front end.
The technique which always worked for me
Methodically move weight from back to front, if possible try a low rider
front, even overloading the front to see what the matter is. Keep light
stuff that you need handy in the handlebar bag. I try to keep all loads
between the axles and low, so long as it doesn't interfere with pedaling,
etc.
