Search results for:

Thanks! That already helps quite a bit, because its the cost that bothers me the most and helps me decide for or against buying the bike.

Can such additional heating processes weaken a tube? (I clearly have no idea...: ))

Hi, I started a thread this evening about a question I have for framebuilders, but have just realised my question might have belonged in this thread. If a moderator or anyone could advise? Don't think I can delete my thread. Apologies!

Anyway, I'd be very grateful for any help with my question on a seat tube modification! Thanks : )

I would like to ask a framebuilder how big a job it is, and what sort of price range I'd be looking at, to return a seat tube to a standard bolt clamp set up?

Some background: I've been mulling over buying a lovely and very rare vintage bicycle from the 50s or 60s (seller not clear). It had an illustrious and charming life until it changed hands to an owner in 1970 who had the original stunning handpainted details and black colour repainted. Disappointing, but ok. Then on closer inspection of the photos, I noticed there was no bolt to tighten the seatpost. I reread the text and the fact that that person had had modifications made then before the respray, which included it having a 'seatpost expander'. I had to research what that was and think this thread from the roadbikereview forum explains it and the typical problems it cause.

I cannot believe anyone would do this to a frame. None of the other frames of that brand have it. If the bolt thread dies, rusts, or the post needs replacement, I am stuck.

So I would like to find out first how much of an issue it is to have the bike returned to its original state.

The image here shows the (blue) bike in question on the left, while on the right how it would have looked and how I would like it to be.

I'd really appreciate any thoughts or opinions!

That there is no real randonneur or classic light French touring thread is something I noticed early on when I joined the forum.

Not much on classic French bikes generally on lfgss, other than classifieds. Perhaps I am wrong? On the other hand, the forum has so many other sides to it that I enjoy, so that's all fine. The threads on 50s and 60s British bikes for starters, and the touring and camping threads.

I had a kryptonite fuggedaboutit mini - what monster!! Forgot it somewhere during a phonecall and was relieved afterwards when I returned to find that thing was gone.

Have an ABUS Granit X-Plus 54/160 HB Mini (u-lock) now. It's a mini size, but slightly wider - not the longer HB230. Their max 15 security, but way, way lighter. Like many good products, it was discontinued, so anyone finding it used would be lucky. Best lock ever.

Just dropped in to say that's a truly wonderful bike! I think your cat's confused that the wheels are off and it can't go for a ride like usual : )

Thanks, need to look into that!

Yes, I'm a bit the same - when I see " inner and outer all-in-one set up" and "5-10min.", I smile. Also, I tend to carry small (I'm trying...) sound recording bits and bobs around with me, so I'd have to be really experienced with tarps and bivs to know how to keep the moisture out. Not saying it's not possible - I'm still just finding my way around.

Hi, your post was food for thought. Thank you!

Thanks, good to hear from someone who owns it. Yes, the extra vestibule is definitely what attracted me to it (besides it being a Vango). One or two reviewers on youtube also let on that they had come by car, which left me wondering if I was being realistic about this as a solo bike tent. As you can probably tell, I am a bit new to the topic and am still finding my way. I have done loads of research.

I did try to camp in Scotland many years ago with a cheapie ancient and tiny tent I picked up. The experience was awful - midges, loud neigbours and a feeling of claustrophobia. Gave it to a charity shop the next day. Anyway, I loved Scotland, so enjoy reading of your rides there.

But I have been yearning for this again, with better equipment. Want to get closer to the natural world and its sounds.

Thanks!

May I ask what brand and model tarp and bivy you got?

Glad I'm not the only one : )

I spent much of the day reading old threads here and there and watching some youtube...and kept having the same thought: how lovely it would be to wake up in the morning and view my new found bit of paradise from the comfort of my (yet to be bought) sleeping bag. If it's a quiet spot and I don't feel the need to rush off, then it would be nice just to enjoy the beauty a while.

Thanks for responding and thanks for confirming my own wishes! Yes. It's a great tent that Xenon and I may even kick myself later for not going for such a bargain, but I think I just like the side access and window on the world too much. I guess something else will pop up again of interest later on.

Thanks for that very prompt and highly needed dose of logical advice : ) Just managed to sell off a few things that were just taking space and now I wanted more of the same. Not that I won't find a partner at some point again (he states optimistically...ahem), haha.

Hi, does anyone have any opinion on the Vango F10 Xenon UL2+? (For very short 2+ day cycle tours)

I can get a used one like new for €160 (Germany), but then realised its the "2+" version, not the "2" kind. The 2+ version has a bigger porch. Standard 2 = 1.9kg, while the 2+ = 2.4kg.

I was actually looking for something for myself, but if its a bargain then I could buy it for when I have a partner again if its too big for one person. Could get a bivy in addition for just myself in the meantime. Not sure if this is the right way to approach this.

Also, it's a tunnel tent - are they ok for ventilation? I see better tents have doors on either side.

.

Hi, I can relate to your frustration. I recently bought used Carradice Super C panniers and on closer inspection discovered to my amazement that it had the most poorly thought-through bottom bracket fixing mechanism with a hook 'system' that couldn't even swivel around to adapt to various racks. So it fits one rack, but not the others. I mean, it's hardly rocket science! Anyway, I nevertheless subsequently bought a new Super C pair because it has a swivel hook now, and because I like the Super C saddlebags...but in future I intend to go custom, either or both with this http://www.timtas.nl or with this forum's own user71349 - bags (made by me) thread.

Anyway, about your issue, could the problem lie with your bag and not the rack? Even that link I used in my first reply contains pros and cons of different very established brands. If you have not bent the rack yet and no longer want it, then I would potentially buy it off you.

I agree - especially rewilding lands, which has a crucial role to play against climate change and aiding diversity. But not more cows ...and most conventional (destructive) farming fields don't look that much different to rows of panels.

Though her presentation approach is also so stupid and ignorant. She could have made it attractive for the farmer. A friend in Germany didn't want to take over her father's cattle farming, so she had solar panels installed instead. Since the contract with an energy company for providing energy was already sure, there was no problem for the bank to provide a loan. Now the set up brings in a regular source of income each month - and pays off the loan at the same time.

Pretty sure that angle helps secure the basket or bag better. Though there is usually provision for securing underneath the bag or basket too.

Jon Blum

I have not used a front rack yet, but I have a question about the
design. Most of them have a tombstone that is angled so that it is not
vertical, but instead is angled like the head tube. Why not have it
vertical, since the bags used with these racks all seem to be vertical
rather than angled at the back? Just curious. April 26, 2017 at 7:35
pm

Jan Heine, Editor, Bicycle Quarterly

The main reason is probably aesthetics, but the angled backstop also
prevents the strap that goes over it from sliding upward.
https://www.renehersecycles.com/using-handlebar-bags-on-modern-bikepacking-bikes/

.

.

I really enjoy this thread!

A small question for which I would be very grateful: have any of you noticed birds staying longer that would ordinarily be found in the Southern Hemisphere in places like Africa, etc.?

What a lovely Gillott that! I'm sure your son will enjoy it.

I'm guessing those are 28mm tyres fitted. Is there enough clearance for 32mm with mudguards?

I also really like that luggage rack with the lower pannier level for more stability and the play of rounded and angular tubing design on top. Vintage racks like that must be hard to come by, I'm sure.

(...hm, now where's my minidisk player...)