[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Respectfully .. you are making the errant assumption that to ride with an Alba bar(or Moustache or similiar) he/she is riding bolt upright. What is bolt upright anyways 90 degrees? That's really hard to do. Your actual position on the bike depends on the TT length and the stem used. To be bolt upright you'd need a short TT and a short stem, fine for flat city riding I suppose, but it must be awkward. Many pro mtb riders have bars equal to , and higher than saddle height. Their body position ranges from about 40-70 degrees . the latter being pretty upright . The key is they have sufficiently long top tubes, and they use their levers(arms) to vary their position as needed. There is no difference in flat, upright or drop bars when it comes to body angle while riding .. it depends on setting up the bars you use to fit the particular rider. For me the idea that you need to be hunched over to ride effectively has been busted. It may be fine and necessary for racing, but even racers don't ride like this for long periods, and they are paid to go fast. My local riding is very hilly, with grades up to 19%. Like I said earlier, the bar makes no difference uphill, I climb the same as I did with drops. Downhill though, I like the Alba better. I used to be all about getting the max speed I could. I never noticed my surrounds much though in my futile quest for speed. with the Alba bar, I can go full tuck if I want to and go fast but I prefer to sit up some so I can take in the whole scenic picture. I can't tell you how many times, in my quest for speed . I overlook where I'm at. My mind is so concerned with getting there I'm deaf, dumb and blind to where I'm at. That sucks really. Life is short . . . . so short. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. This is very revealing . Is the hill/wind an obstacle or an Allie ? It doesn't matter your position, or your physical ability . .. . you are where you are, you do the best you can, and you benefit from the experience, period. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. On Aug 28, 9:37 pm, Steve Palincsar palin...@his.com wrote: I do think it's safe to say a bolt upright position is very poor for climbing, because you cannot use several important muscle groups effectively. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I ride M-bars like this guy, maybe I lean a little further forward: http://sheldonbrown.com/bridgestone/images/xo1-rba-8-91.jpg I can just about lay flat on them when descending and find it a surprisingly aero position, as well as one that lets me rest. The M bars are on the bike I use the most for hill training rides. Bruce From: Garth garth...@gmail.com To: RBW Owners Bunch rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com Sent: Sun, August 29, 2010 8:20:34 AM Subject: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops Respectfully .. you are making the errant assumption that to ride with an Alba bar(or Moustache or similiar) he/she is riding bolt upright. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I agree entirely with Garth. I climb and wind-ride quite effectively with Alba bars. And, I do not sit bolt upright, either. I have two bikes now fitted with Alba bars, and two others with drops. For city riding/commuting/buzz-abouts, I'll pull one with the Alba every time -- and I live and ride in a city renown for its hilly terrain (and a long, sweeping bridge). From: Garth garth...@gmail.com To: RBW Owners Bunch rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com Sent: Sun, August 29, 2010 6:20:34 AM Subject: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops Respectfully .. you are making the errant assumption that to ride with an Alba bar(or Moustache or similiar) he/she is riding bolt upright. What is bolt upright anyways 90 degrees? That's really hard to do. Your actual position on the bike depends on the TT length and the stem used. To be bolt upright you'd need a short TT and a short stem, fine for flat city riding I suppose, but it must be awkward. Many pro mtb riders have bars equal to , and higher than saddle height. Their body position ranges from about 40-70 degrees . the latter being pretty upright . The key is they have sufficiently long top tubes, and they use their levers(arms) to vary their position as needed. There is no difference in flat, upright or drop bars when it comes to body angle while riding .. it depends on setting up the bars you use to fit the particular rider. For me the idea that you need to be hunched over to ride effectively has been busted. It may be fine and necessary for racing, but even racers don't ride like this for long periods, and they are paid to go fast. My local riding is very hilly, with grades up to 19%. Like I said earlier, the bar makes no difference uphill, I climb the same as I did with drops. Downhill though, I like the Alba better. I used to be all about getting the max speed I could. I never noticed my surrounds much though in my futile quest for speed. with the Alba bar, I can go full tuck if I want to and go fast but I prefer to sit up some so I can take in the whole scenic picture. I can't tell you how many times, in my quest for speed . I overlook where I'm at. My mind is so concerned with getting there I'm deaf, dumb and blind to where I'm at. That sucks really. Life is short . . . . so short. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. This is very revealing . Is the hill/wind an obstacle or an Allie ? It doesn't matter your position, or your physical ability . .. . you are where you are, you do the best you can, and you benefit from the experience, period. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. On Aug 28, 9:37 pm, Steve Palincsar palin...@his.com wrote: I do think it's safe to say a bolt upright position is very poor for climbing, because you cannot use several important muscle groups effectively. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 7:20 AM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: For me the idea that you need to be hunched over to ride effectively has been busted. It may be fine and necessary for racing, but even racers don't ride like this for long periods, and they are paid to go fast. Are you saying that riding in the hooks on low bars is bunched up? If so, you are doing what you criticize the other for: making unwarranted assumptions and playing straw man (that's two fallacies). A low bar, butt back position can be *very* comfortable, at least for some people: I often get into the hooks, bars 2 below saddle, because it is a comfortable change from the hoods. My local riding is very hilly, with grades up to 19%. Like I said earlier, the bar makes no difference uphill, I climb the same as I did with drops. Downhill though, I like the Alba better. I used to be all about getting the max speed I could. I never noticed my surrounds much though in my futile quest for speed. with the Alba bar, I can go full tuck if I want to and go fast but I prefer to sit up some so I can take in the whole scenic picture. I can't tell you how many times, in my quest for speed . I overlook where I'm at. My mind is so concerned with getting there I'm deaf, dumb and blind to where I'm at. That sucks really. Life is short . . . . so short. Again, assumptions: some people get *pleasure* out of pushing themselves. Don't *assume* everyone is really like you. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. Bullshit. Come to Albuquerque, expecially in the spring, and try pushing a 70 or 75 gear into a 30 mph headwind. Try pushing the same gears up a 7 mile climb from 4900 to 6500 feet. This is very revealing . Is the hill/wind an obstacle or an Allie That's ally. ? It doesn't matter your position, or your physical ability . .. . you are where you are, you do the best you can, and you benefit from the experience, This is a truism. period. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. And this refers to what? -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
A-bars were fine for climbing. I found the lack of leverage while holding the brakes during descents to be fatiguing. On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 6:20 AM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: Respectfully .. you are making the errant assumption that to ride with an Alba bar(or Moustache or similiar) he/she is riding bolt upright. What is bolt upright anyways 90 degrees? That's really hard to do. Your actual position on the bike depends on the TT length and the stem used. To be bolt upright you'd need a short TT and a short stem, fine for flat city riding I suppose, but it must be awkward. Many pro mtb riders have bars equal to , and higher than saddle height. Their body position ranges from about 40-70 degrees . the latter being pretty upright . The key is they have sufficiently long top tubes, and they use their levers(arms) to vary their position as needed. There is no difference in flat, upright or drop bars when it comes to body angle while riding .. it depends on setting up the bars you use to fit the particular rider. For me the idea that you need to be hunched over to ride effectively has been busted. It may be fine and necessary for racing, but even racers don't ride like this for long periods, and they are paid to go fast. My local riding is very hilly, with grades up to 19%. Like I said earlier, the bar makes no difference uphill, I climb the same as I did with drops. Downhill though, I like the Alba better. I used to be all about getting the max speed I could. I never noticed my surrounds much though in my futile quest for speed. with the Alba bar, I can go full tuck if I want to and go fast but I prefer to sit up some so I can take in the whole scenic picture. I can't tell you how many times, in my quest for speed . I overlook where I'm at. My mind is so concerned with getting there I'm deaf, dumb and blind to where I'm at. That sucks really. Life is short . . . . so short. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. This is very revealing . Is the hill/wind an obstacle or an Allie ? It doesn't matter your position, or your physical ability . .. . you are where you are, you do the best you can, and you benefit from the experience, period. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. On Aug 28, 9:37 pm, Steve Palincsar palin...@his.com wrote: I do think it's safe to say a bolt upright position is very poor for climbing, because you cannot use several important muscle groups effectively. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Cheers, David Redlands, CA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Good ol' Pineapple Bob. I could get aero on M bars too, but set low and forward, not high and rearward. But they hurt my hands no matter how placed -- tried them half a dozen times over the years on and off road. Like the concept but don't like the feel, alas. I used to use North Road type bars, but flipped and angled; also aero but, again, hurt my hands. You can get aero on just about any bar; even one the bar of a Flying Pigeon with stem and bar cast in one piece and no extension (rod brakes) and short tt, but you will be in a rather awkard position on this last wrt weight distribution, and *certainly* hunched over! (I rode a Hero for several years as a boy.) On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 7:25 AM, Bruce fullylug...@yahoo.com wrote: I ride M-bars like this guy, maybe I lean a little further forward: http://sheldonbrown.com/bridgestone/images/xo1-rba-8-91.jpg I can just about lay flat on them when descending and find it a surprisingly aero position, as well as one that lets me rest. The M bars are on the bike I use the most for hill training rides. Bruce From: Garth garth...@gmail.com To: RBW Owners Bunch rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com Sent: Sun, August 29, 2010 8:20:34 AM Subject: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops Respectfully .. you are making the errant assumption that to ride with an Alba bar(or Moustache or similiar) he/she is riding bolt upright. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Patrick Moore Albuquerque, NM For professional resumes, contact Patrick Moore, ACRW at resumespecialt...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Aug 29, 9:59 am, PATRICK MOORE bertin...@gmail.com wrote: Are you saying that riding in the hooks on low bars is bunched up? If so, you are doing what you criticize the other for: making unwarranted assumptions and playing straw man (that's two fallacies). A low bar, butt back position can be *very* comfortable, at least for some people: I often get into the hooks, bars 2 below saddle, because it is a comfortable change from the hoods. --I'm saying riding in the drops isn't needed to ride effectively. Again, assumptions: some people get *pleasure* out of pushing themselves. Don't *assume* everyone is really like you. --There's room for everyone and everyone rides differently. No ... no one is like me. or like you, or like anyone else. The point is for each of us to think for ourselves and make up our own minds as to how we want to ride. I gave an example. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. Bullshit. Come to Albuquerque, expecially in the spring, and try pushing a 70 or 75 gear into a 30 mph headwind. Try pushing the same gears up a 7 mile climb from 4900 to 6500 feet. --You missed the point Patrick. riding into the wind and climbing is still **just riding**. The idea that you need to be more aero, or faster or struggle creates more inner tension and in turn, you ride worse. If one wants to ride a 75 gear up such a climb, one would *assume* you know what you're getting into. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. And this refers to what? --It refers to this example : Yeah I just finished my ride, *but* I shoulda woulda coulda rode faster, stronger, higher or whatever else the imagination can think of. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I ride a very wide Surly 1X1 Flat bar with bar ends and a Cinelli Spinachi aero on my Sam. I just realized several years ago that I almost never used the drops. I spent better than 90% of my time on the brake hoods. The argument for more hand positions is sort of moot if that is the case. I've though about going back to drops, Randonner bars actually, but haven't because I like my thumbshifters. On Sat, Aug 28, 2010 at 1:45 AM, RJM rjme...@gmail.com wrote: I actually would rather have albatross, flat bar/bar end combo or a mustache than drop bars. I don't like using brifters and find most drop bars too skinny, plus I don't like to ride in the drops so the bars aren't for me. The wider the better for me. I can't say I have ever wanted drop bars and not had them. On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Fai Mao The Blogger who sometimes responds to comments -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
That's the argument for raising the bars. Get them up high enough so that the drops are closer to the seat height and more usable. Looks kinda' odd, but leads to happy necks! http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyclotourist/4737478946/in/set-72157602592825848/ On Sat, Aug 28, 2010 at 8:57 AM, Fai Mao i.am.fai@gmail.com wrote: I ride a very wide Surly 1X1 Flat bar with bar ends and a Cinelli Spinachi aero on my Sam. I just realized several years ago that I almost never used the drops. I spent better than 90% of my time on the brake hoods. The argument for more hand positions is sort of moot if that is the case. I've though about going back to drops, Randonner bars actually, but haven't because I like my thumbshifters. On Sat, Aug 28, 2010 at 1:45 AM, RJM rjme...@gmail.com wrote: I actually would rather have albatross, flat bar/bar end combo or a mustache than drop bars. I don't like using brifters and find most drop bars too skinny, plus I don't like to ride in the drops so the bars aren't for me. The wider the better for me. I can't say I have ever wanted drop bars and not had them. On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Fai Mao The Blogger who sometimes responds to comments -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Cheers, David Redlands, CA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Hey David, That looks cool ... the dirt drop stem kind of flows to the bars. . . . it matches well. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 9:37 AM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: On Aug 29, 9:59 am, PATRICK MOORE bertin...@gmail.com wrote: Are you saying that riding in the hooks on low bars is bunched up? If so, you are doing what you criticize the other for: making unwarranted assumptions and playing straw man (that's two fallacies). A low bar, butt back position can be *very* comfortable, at least for some people: I often get into the hooks, bars 2 below saddle, because it is a comfortable change from the hoods. --I'm saying riding in the drops isn't needed to ride effectively. I'll grant that. Again, assumptions: some people get *pleasure* out of pushing themselves. Don't *assume* everyone is really like you. --There's room for everyone and everyone rides differently. No ... no one is like me. or like you, or like anyone else. The point is for each of us to think for ourselves and make up our own minds as to how we want to ride. I gave an example. Grant that, too. Hill climbing and riding into headwinds is mostly in the head. Bullshit. Come to Albuquerque, expecially in the spring, and try pushing a 70 or 75 gear into a 30 mph headwind. Try pushing the same gears up a 7 mile climb from 4900 to 6500 feet. --You missed the point Patrick. riding into the wind and climbing is still **just riding**. The idea that you need to be more aero, or faster or struggle creates more inner tension and in turn, you ride worse. If one wants to ride a 75 gear up such a climb, one would *assume* you know what you're getting into. Believe me, a hooks position is far, far easier against a headwind than more upright. All the thoughts of I coulda woulda shoulda . and the yeah, but .. are just bologna. And this refers to what? --It refers to this example : Yeah I just finished my ride, *but* I shoulda woulda coulda rode faster, stronger, higher or whatever else the imagination can think of. Again, some people enjoy pushing themselves and set themselves speed goals. And they can say, shoulda etc. Not baloney for them! So, I gather that you are saying, in sum, that everyone has his own preferred set of variables; that is certainly true of experienced riders. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Hi. Does anyone have experience with the Jitensha and Albatross bars, and if so, could you comment on differences between the two? Thanks, David Sprunger Fargo, ND On Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 1:03 PM, stevep33 steve...@gmail.com wrote: Check out the Jitensha flat bar (by Nitto). It's a great flat handlebar with a moderate backsweep. Perfect for brisk rides around town where sitting up a little bit is more fun. I'm all for drops for long or fast rides; gives lots of hand/body positions. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Life has a way of throwing forks in the road you never knew were there. I used to ride all drops, except my mtb bike. I was all about efficiency while riding trying to go as far as I could as fast as I could. Then, something happened that I could no longer ride without severe pain. I gave it up for 4-5 years. I had never not ridden a bike for so long, minus birth. I went for riding 20-30-40-80 mile rides to nothing. I decided to try riding again one day . F the pain. Well, slowly I was able to do 15-20 minute rides on my mtb bike, then slowly I could do more. Something had changed though. I was weaker from the loss of muscle and fitness, but I also appreciated riding like I never did before. Speed didn't matter . hell ... I was riding a bike again! . and I think it's one of the coolest things a human can do. While I can ride longer today, I can never forget how quickly it can all go away. So, when I'm riding up some monster hills, or the wind is high . . . I just think of not being able to ride . . .and how I'd rather be here, however fast or slow I ride. Then , I can relax. . . and just ride within my ability at the moment. It's not going to win me a Tour De France , or help me keep up to others . . . but that's not why I ride. . I ride because it's the closest I can get to flying I suppose there's nothing like it. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Hi. Does anyone have experience with the Jitensha and Albatross bars, and if so, could you comment on differences between the two? I have both bars. The Jitensha are great - and look great as well. They are less versatile than the Albatross. They need to be paired to the correct bike. If they are, you will be very happy with them. True, they do not have as many possible grip points as drops or swept back such as the Albatross. But (again highly dependent on being matched with the right bike) they put your hands at a very good riding position, similar to riding with your hands on the brake hoods with drops. The Albatross are also great looking bars. You can use them in a lot of different situations. You can set them up straight back. Tilt them down. Flip them. Of course if you are into bar end shifters Albas fit them. Hope this helps. On Aug 29, 3:19 pm, David Sprunger sprun...@gmail.com wrote: Hi. Does anyone have experience with the Jitensha and Albatross bars, and if so, could you comment on differences between the two? Thanks, David Sprunger Fargo, ND On Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 1:03 PM, stevep33 steve...@gmail.com wrote: Check out the Jitensha flat bar (by Nitto). It's a great flat handlebar with a moderate backsweep. Perfect for brisk rides around town where sitting up a little bit is more fun. I'm all for drops for long or fast rides; gives lots of hand/body positions. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group athttp://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Garth, I am the same way. I tore ligaments in my right leg several years ago. It causes me to walk with a limp, I have a permanently sprained ankle. I can't do the triathlon thing anymore. I had to get off the bike for nearly 4 years. I was told to sit on my butt, lift the leg and let it heal. What is funny is that it hurts to walk but not ride the bike. Incidently, I take the Surly 1X1 bars and twist them so that the outer ends are bent downward. The outside edge of my bars is about 2-3 cm below the nose of the saddle but the center of the bar is level with the saddle. When combined with barends I find this setup to be a good commuter system as it lets me go fast enough and still allows me to see. This is the equivilent of riding the hoods with a really wide (54cm) drop bar I also have a set of Cinelli Spinachi on the center of the bars to help with headwinds. I grew up in Northern Texas so I know about riding into the wind. I think that climbing is more about gears and physical condition than drop bars. I find that with drop bars I tend to stare at my front tire. That may a technique flaw but it is one I see all to often in road riders. They only really look about 10 feet in front of where they are going. On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 5:03 AM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: Life has a way of throwing forks in the road you never knew were there. I used to ride all drops, except my mtb bike. I was all about efficiency while riding trying to go as far as I could as fast as I could. Then, something happened that I could no longer ride without severe pain. I gave it up for 4-5 years. I had never not ridden a bike for so long, minus birth. I went for riding 20-30-40-80 mile rides to nothing. I decided to try riding again one day . F the pain. Well, slowly I was able to do 15-20 minute rides on my mtb bike, then slowly I could do more. Something had changed though. I was weaker from the loss of muscle and fitness, but I also appreciated riding like I never did before. Speed didn't matter . hell ... I was riding a bike again! . and I think it's one of the coolest things a human can do. While I can ride longer today, I can never forget how quickly it can all go away. So, when I'm riding up some monster hills, or the wind is high . . . I just think of not being able to ride . . .and how I'd rather be here, however fast or slow I ride. Then , I can relax. . . and just ride within my ability at the moment. It's not going to win me a Tour De France , or help me keep up to others . . . but that's not why I ride. . I ride because it's the closest I can get to flying I suppose there's nothing like it. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Fai Mao The Blogger who sometimes responds to comments -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Well thank you. It looks a touch awkward compared to the standard bicycle (MCRB) of today. But works really well for off road riding. You can kinda' see the idea behind getting them high here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyclotourist/4576760855/ If they're too low, it's not only uncomfortable (IMHO) but puts you too far forward and low for trail riding. Which I happened to do some of today: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyclotourist/4940150438/in/datetaken/ On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 12:58 PM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: Hey David, That looks cool ... the dirt drop stem kind of flows to the bars. . . . it matches well. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Cheers, David Redlands, CA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I actually would rather have albatross, flat bar/bar end combo or a mustache than drop bars. I don't like using brifters and find most drop bars too skinny, plus I don't like to ride in the drops so the bars aren't for me. The wider the better for me. I can't say I have ever wanted drop bars and not had them. On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Actually, of course, hawks and eagles do worry about aerodynamics. That's why they pull in their wings and hunker down when they're diving - which argues for drop bars - but stick their wings out as far as they'll go when they're just touring - clearly an argument for the albatross. Thanks all for the input. Great food for thought. Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Bars are much like saddles: what suits one person may not suit another. (He said sententiously.) I was thinking about these varying tastes yesterday when riding my two Rivs (not both at the same time: drove daughter to school; parked disreputable van in school lot -- btw, I am soliciting non-obscene stickers for the van; have about 100 on it right now but some are peeling: offers all welcomed; my favorite: Play an accordian, go to jail: that's the law.) anyway -- rode commuter home 61/2 miles against 3/4 east wind; 230 pm, took a detour and rode 14 miles back to the school against SW wind. I rode in the hooks for much of the way and, as usual, found that when I sit more upright I *feel* -- and my feeling may be accurate, to judge from the computer -- more powerful for the same effort. I think it's a matter of additional muscles and not just minor aerodynamics -- the wind, while certainly noticeable, wasn't that strong. I've long noticed this, that when I ride on the hoods -- and my bars are 4-5 cm below saddle -- I lose a bit of power; when I sit upright, I feel as if I am stalling. So, you upright riders: do you pedal more with your quads than you would if you were at a 45* angle? In other news: tried the 65 gear on the gofast outbound against the wind, then flipped to the 75 which I'd been thinking was too high for my aging legs; I found that I was certainly faster in the bigger gear even against the wind. Pedaling style, I guess. (Note: I'm not that fast; averaged 16.2 for the return journey on mostly flat, uninterrupted bike path.) -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Aero all the way!http://www.odt.co.nz/files/story/2009/07/alberto_contador_of_spain_wearing_the_overall_lead_1055291014.jpg On Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 11:00 AM, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.comwrote: Actually, of course, hawks and eagles do worry about aerodynamics. That's why they pull in their wings and hunker down when they're diving - which argues for drop bars - but stick their wings out as far as they'll go when they're just touring - clearly an argument for the albatross. Thanks all for the input. Great food for thought. Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Cheers, David Redlands, CA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I want a set of those for off road. On Sat, Aug 28, 2010 at 8:34 AM, cyclotourist cyclotour...@gmail.com wrote: Aero all the way! -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Fri, 2010-08-27 at 11:00 -0700, kevin lindsey wrote: Actually, of course, hawks and eagles do worry about aerodynamics. That's why they pull in their wings and hunker down when they're diving - which argues for drop bars - but stick their wings out as far as they'll go when they're just touring - clearly an argument for the albatross. Hawks and Eagles descend but tourists don't? Not only do tourists descend -- not that descending in a hurry is such a big thing for a tourist -- but they also climb. Here, drop bars have it all over albatross or any other upright bar. And if there's on thing that really does matter for a tourist, it's climbing efficiently, because simply climbing with a touring load is bad enough in its own right, you really don't have to add an inefficient climbing position that won't let you put your muscles to work effectively -- the number one thing that's wrong with upright bars. There's one other problem with upright bars for a tourist: limited number of hand positions. Tourists can spend long days in the saddle, and one of the keys to hand comfort is being able to vary the position. Drops are great for that, upright bars not so much. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Not only do tourists descend -- not that descending in a hurry is such a big thing for a tourist -- but they also climb. Here, drop bars have it all over albatross or any other upright bar. Perhaps. Although here is an experienced tourer who toured the Himalayas where I understand there are more than a few climbs with a flat bar. I've nothing against drop bars. But the evidence suggests tourers can and do use flats and swept backs quite successfully. http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKjpage_id=145281v=2g On Aug 28, 1:32 pm, Steve Palincsar palin...@his.com wrote: On Fri, 2010-08-27 at 11:00 -0700, kevin lindsey wrote: Actually, of course, hawks and eagles do worry about aerodynamics. That's why they pull in their wings and hunker down when they're diving - which argues for drop bars - but stick their wings out as far as they'll go when they're just touring - clearly an argument for the albatross. Hawks and Eagles descend but tourists don't? Not only do tourists descend -- not that descending in a hurry is such a big thing for a tourist -- but they also climb. Here, drop bars have it all over albatross or any other upright bar. And if there's on thing that really does matter for a tourist, it's climbing efficiently, because simply climbing with a touring load is bad enough in its own right, you really don't have to add an inefficient climbing position that won't let you put your muscles to work effectively -- the number one thing that's wrong with upright bars. There's one other problem with upright bars for a tourist: limited number of hand positions. Tourists can spend long days in the saddle, and one of the keys to hand comfort is being able to vary the position. Drops are great for that, upright bars not so much. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Sat, 2010-08-28 at 15:22 -0700, JoelMatthews wrote: Not only do tourists descend -- not that descending in a hurry is such a big thing for a tourist -- but they also climb. Here, drop bars have it all over albatross or any other upright bar. Perhaps. Although here is an experienced tourer who toured the Himalayas where I understand there are more than a few climbs with a flat bar. I've nothing against drop bars. But the evidence suggests tourers can and do use flats and swept backs quite successfully. http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKjpage_id=145281v=2g Talk about touring heavy! Note, I said upright bar I did not say flat bar. Looks like he's got a fair amount of drop between the bar and the seat height, and for all we know, he could be fairly stretched out on that rig, MTB fashion, rather than the sort of upright position an albatross or other upright bar promotes. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I think there are so many variances in people's preferred position while climbing ,let alone all riding , that one cannot say this or that bar is better for climbing. We are human , and we are flexible to different degrees. If only it was the bar or my position that could get more oxygen into my blood when climbing !!! I notice no performance difference between drops and the Albatross . sucking air is sucking air ! but I do enjoy the scenery more .. and that's priceless. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Talk about touring heavy! Note, I said upright bar I did not say flat bar. Looks like he's got a fair amount of drop between the bar and the seat height, and for all we know, he could be fairly stretched out on that rig, MTB fashion, rather than the sort of upright position an albatross or other upright bar promotes. Well, I will have to get some pictures of my Camping bike Alba bar set up. The seat is about two inches higher than the stem and the bars are angled down. During the long flat grinds every Midwest tourer is so used to, I keep my hands on the grips or just above the break levers. Climbing I usually have my hands at the end of the grips. Descents I put my hands at the top of the bars and tuck not all that unlike what the Tri person is doing in the link above. On Aug 28, 5:45 pm, Steve Palincsar palin...@his.com wrote: On Sat, 2010-08-28 at 15:22 -0700, JoelMatthews wrote: Not only do tourists descend -- not that descending in a hurry is such a big thing for a tourist -- but they also climb. Here, drop bars have it all over albatross or any other upright bar. Perhaps. Although here is an experienced tourer who toured the Himalayas where I understand there are more than a few climbs with a flat bar. I've nothing against drop bars. But the evidence suggests tourers can and do use flats and swept backs quite successfully. http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKjpage_id=145281v=2g Talk about touring heavy! Note, I said upright bar I did not say flat bar. Looks like he's got a fair amount of drop between the bar and the seat height, and for all we know, he could be fairly stretched out on that rig, MTB fashion, rather than the sort of upright position an albatross or other upright bar promotes. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Sat, 2010-08-28 at 16:07 -0700, Garth wrote: I think there are so many variances in people's preferred position while climbing ,let alone all riding , that one cannot say this or that bar is better for climbing. We are human , and we are flexible to different degrees. If only it was the bar or my position that could get more oxygen into my blood when climbing !!! I notice no performance difference between drops and the Albatross . sucking air is sucking air ! . but I do enjoy the scenery more .. and that's priceless. I do think it's safe to say a bolt upright position is very poor for climbing, because you cannot use several important muscle groups effectively. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Another reason that you need to be able to get out over the front of the bike is that some hills are steep enough that the front tire will leave the road unless you can counter that somehow with your upper body. Also, if your weight is too far forward, your back tire can lose traction on surfaces other than pavement. So, in climbing really steep stuff, balance front to back is sort of critical. Enjoy the ride, Bob -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
the oft-debated h bar subjective experiences lead to subjective opinions, try them out and find what works for you. i thought i'd hate the albatross, but it's the bar i ride everyday and on the right setup (more gears) would be a great hill climber. i opt for variety. erik On Sat, Aug 28, 2010 at 7:11 PM, Bob Cooper robertcoo...@frontiernet.netwrote: Another reason that you need to be able to get out over the front of the bike is that some hills are steep enough that the front tire will leave the road unless you can counter that somehow with your upper body. Also, if your weight is too far forward, your back tire can lose traction on surfaces other than pavement. So, in climbing really steep stuff, balance front to back is sort of critical. Enjoy the ride, Bob -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.comrbw-owners-bunch%2bunsubscr...@googlegroups.com . For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- oakland, ca bikenoir.blogspot.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I use Albatross bars for touring and am very happy with them. Drops are very popular among the U.S. touring crowd. European, South American and Asian cycle tourists are far more likely to use swept back bars (many of which are similar but inferior to Albatross) and even straight bars for touring. It really is a personal choice. However, Albatross bars can and do make a wonderful touring choice for many. On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Aug 27, 2010, at 5:43 AM, kevin lindsey wrote: Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. Every time I've ridden a bike without drop bars for more than a mile. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. With flat (e.g., MTB) bars I find my hands go numb within minutes; this doesn't happen with drop bars. With curved bars (e.g., North Road bars, etc.) I'm just too upright for comfort. YMMV, of course. Lots of people strongly prefer flat or curved bars and a more upright position. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Even if one never get into the drops, a drop bar gives one numerous hand positions - tops, ramps, hoods, side of the ramps and so forth. With Albatross bars or mostache-type bars (particularly if the center of the bar is loaded with computers, lights and other gadgets), one is basically limited to one hand position at the grips. For riding around town and short commutes this works fine: I have Jentensa (sp?) swept-back bars on my commuter and I love them. But for any kind of longer ride, or a real trip, I want drops for the comfort. And sometimes I really need the drops. I took a trip this summer in NE Vermont and Quebec that required a lot of climbing and descending. With a load fore and aft, I always felt more in control when I was in the drops, particularly on long fast descents. GeorgeS On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Kevin, this is pretty much one of those things that you just have to do and find out for yourself. Every type of handlebar has positives and negatives associated with it. If you do get some A-bars, I would recommend getting the steel ones and the long tall Technomic (non- dlx) stem. Those two make a wonderful combination IMHO. Wrap the forward curves with some extra cloth tape to have a nice extra aero position to use on the straights. If it doesn't work out, you can re-sell them quite easily here on the RBW list. :-) David On Aug 27, 7:59 am, JoelMatthews joelmatth...@mac.com wrote: I use Albatross bars for touring and am very happy with them. Drops are very popular among the U.S. touring crowd. European, South American and Asian cycle tourists are far more likely to use swept back bars (many of which are similar but inferior to Albatross) and even straight bars for touring. It really is a personal choice. However, Albatross bars can and do make a wonderful touring choice for many. On Aug 27, 5:43 am, kevin lindsey lindsey.ke...@gmail.com wrote: Greetings. I'm doing a rebuild and am considering switching from drop bars to something like the albatross or the dove bars, mostly for aesthetic reasons. I use the bike (a 1973 Schwinn World Voyageur, not a Rivendell) for longish fun rides, errands, and general purpose riding. Question I have for the group is whether there are ever times when you wished you had drop bars instead of non-drops. In other words, are there clear advantages of one over the other? I like drops, but find that I almost never move my hands from the upper part of the bar, making me wonder whether I'd miss them very much if I switched. Thanks, Kevin -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
I look at the Alba/Moustache/Noodle as a range of bars for a range of positions. My Alba bike is a Kogswell P/R with fenders and a front basket for commuting and trips to the market. Although I can use the front of the bar to get more aero, it is only for brief periods, and mostly I'm sitting upright with my hands on the end of the bar. Trips are always under an hour. My 'stache touring bike is an Atlantis wanna-be (1985 steel trek MTB, 650b) that has bar end shifters, and I like to be forward for when I'm on gravel and single track with loaded panniers. I can sit up, relatively, for short periods of time with my hands on the ends of the bars, but is isn't as comfortable as the Alba bars. Woodchipper bars are another version that fit into this category. My Ram, and QB have drop bars, Noodles, as they are road/ bike path bikes, and anything longer than 2 hours I need multiple hand positions. I'm also riding at higher speeds, and being aero is more important than when I'm touring or going to work. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
My Ram, and QB have drop bars, Noodles, as they are road/ bike path bikes, and anything longer than 2 hours I need multiple hand positions. I'm also riding at higher speeds, and being aero is more important than when I'm touring or going to work. Reiteratint that bars are a personal choice - it is not crrect to say Alba do not have multi-hand positions. I do not load my alba bars with a bunch of junk. Even if I did, there are several comfortable places to hold the bars on tours. In any event, in my experience I spent 90% of my tours on the tops when I used to use drops. Finally, you can go in an aero position on Alba bars. Maybe not full out racing bike aero, but who goes full out racing bike aero with 30 pounds of kit anyway? On Aug 27, 11:51 am, Michael Rivers mriver...@gmail.com wrote: I look at the Alba/Moustache/Noodle as a range of bars for a range of positions. My Alba bike is a Kogswell P/R with fenders and a front basket for commuting and trips to the market. Although I can use the front of the bar to get more aero, it is only for brief periods, and mostly I'm sitting upright with my hands on the end of the bar. Trips are always under an hour. My 'stache touring bike is an Atlantis wanna-be (1985 steel trek MTB, 650b) that has bar end shifters, and I like to be forward for when I'm on gravel and single track with loaded panniers. I can sit up, relatively, for short periods of time with my hands on the ends of the bars, but is isn't as comfortable as the Alba bars. Woodchipper bars are another version that fit into this category. My Ram, and QB have drop bars, Noodles, as they are road/ bike path bikes, and anything longer than 2 hours I need multiple hand positions. I'm also riding at higher speeds, and being aero is more important than when I'm touring or going to work. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
You just gotta try Albatross bars to know for yourself. They are fun . I love the 56cm width. and there is no drop bar that wide! I had some 52cm dirt Drop bars, but they were only 46cm at the brakes, so I gifted them to another. You don't have to limit your hand positions at all!! I have about 12-13 inches of usable space to roam. I use Tektro bar end brake levers and thumbshifters, seen here. http://www.flickr.com/photos/11316...@n04/3645057344/in/set-72157624156809417/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/11316...@n04/3644420885/in/set-72157624156809417/ I suppose if bar end brake levers were not made ... I wouldn't use this bar either, as I hate the standard brake lever congestion on the bars. .. but . . . they do make them and they are perfect for me. Aerodynamics? That's just mind worry. Do you think the Hawk or the Eagle or any other bird worries about aerodynamics ? They just do what they do without concern for those around them. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
On Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 11:32 AM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: Aerodynamics? That's just mind worry. Do you think the Hawk or the Eagle or any other bird worries about aerodynamics ? They just do what they do without concern for those around them. -- That's heavy, man! -- Patrick Moore Albuquerque, NM For professional resumes, contact Patrick Moore, ACRW at resumespecialt...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Check out the Jitensha flat bar (by Nitto). It's a great flat handlebar with a moderate backsweep. Perfect for brisk rides around town where sitting up a little bit is more fun. I'm all for drops for long or fast rides; gives lots of hand/body positions. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
[RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
Hey Patrick .. I'm laughing ! Sometimes the context, depth and spirit of what we write gets lost in this very limited form of communication we call the written word. Well . probably most of the time it does ! I don't mean to offend anyone here. I may ... but I can't control that. Sometimes the unconscious things we ALL do need to be brought to light. One of those things is worry about keeping up with the great unknown. like speed . Fast is never fast enough! A race that we lose every single time. We humans think we're so smart, but we're really rather stupid. The mind gets lauded for it's great discoveries yet we are all tortured by it every day with our impatience ... and there nothing we can do to stop it, despite our best efforts. I guess that is kind of heavy! . but it doesn't need to be . it can be liberating . seeing the craziness for what it is. We may experience it ... but we don't have to BE it! I learned all this while riding my Albatross bars :) -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
Re: [RBW] Re: Drop Bars vs. Non-drops
No offense at all; I suppose you were playing on Albatross the bird and Albatross the bar, and I thought it was funny. On Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 12:08 PM, Garth garth...@gmail.com wrote: Hey Patrick .. I'm laughing ! Sometimes the context, depth and spirit of what we write gets lost in this very limited form of communication we call the written word. Well . probably most of the time it does ! I don't mean to offend anyone here. I may ... but I can't control that. Sometimes the unconscious things we ALL do need to be brought to light. One of those things is worry about keeping up with the great unknown. like speed . Fast is never fast enough! A race that we lose every single time. We humans think we're so smart, but we're really rather stupid. The mind gets lauded for it's great discoveries yet we are all tortured by it every day with our impatience ... and there nothing we can do to stop it, despite our best efforts. I guess that is kind of heavy! . but it doesn't need to be . it can be liberating . seeing the craziness for what it is. We may experience it ... but we don't have to BE it! I learned all this while riding my Albatross bars :) -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en. -- Patrick Moore Albuquerque, NM For professional resumes, contact Patrick Moore, ACRW at resumespecialt...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bu...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
