Thorn Cycles Forum
Community => Member's Gallery => Topic started by: jags on January 02, 2017, 07:40:27 pm
-
started the build today should get it finished sometime this week ;).
my son is doing the build for me he's got that touch .
it's set up exactly the same as my road bike to the mm fingers crossed it fits as well.
still need to buy mudguards bottle cages oh i think an inline seatpost would be a better job than the one that came with the frame i could use a longer stem that way, as it is i had to fit the 80mm stem i had on the dolan.
anyway folks that's the latest heads up on the 2016 tiagra looks 8) 8).
i sent Dan photos of the build so far not sure if he can post them up here i know i certainly can't :'(
cheers for now.
anto.
-
Will in just a bit...I'm on the road at the moment.
Best,
Dan
-
Stopped for a bite to eat, so I can get 'em up now...
Lovely machine, Anto! I think you should call it "The Stunner".
All the best,
Dan.
-
Bling...! ;D
All the best,
Dan.
-
good stuff Dan yip taking shape, go easy on those burgers ;)
anto.
-
Forbidden fruit tastes all the sweeter. ;) I'm not supposed to have them (celiac sprue disease/gluten intolerance), so this was a very rare treat. Shhh! Don't tell my doctor. ???
Dan.
-
anto,
bike is looking good, but the house will now need redecorating to match ::)
Happy New Year to you all.
julian
-
Anto,
The bike is looking good. Pity you can't fit a Rohloff to make it even better ;)
Bob
-
Sailing close to the wind, there, Bob...I was just about to say that the bike looks just brilliant, 'cept for the rear wheel -- all those cogs and springy things interfere with the clean lines a bit ;-)
-
Nice colour, class!
-
well pleased withe Tiagra lads well pleased ;D ;D.
i borrowed the bottle cages off my Dolan i want to add some blue into the build as its my favorite color the new cassette on the lovely custom wheel looks like a plate its that big 11 to34 ;D.
still a lot to do before it ready for the road no big hurry its to cold for cycling and i haven't turned a pedal in a month .
Julian the wife was well pleased when i set up the build in the bedroom i ain't going to the shed in this freezing weather.
cheers lads oh btw i can't get the cleat out of my touring shoes (shimano) any tips, the allan key is goosed cant get a turning on it .
anto.
-
oh btw i can't get the cleat out of my touring shoes (shimano) any tips, the allan key is goosed cant get a turning on it .
Quickest way to remove a stripped hex key socket in a shoe cleat is to hammer in the next size larger Torx bit. Yes, it will ruin the bit, but they are cheap and it allows you to get a wrench on it to remove the bolt quickly.
Much faster than drilling and using an EasyOut (reverse-thread screw shaft extractor).
All the best,
Dan.
-
thanks Dan i give that a ging ;)
anto
yis are all learning a whole new Langauge since i joined the forum.even different way's to spell . ;D ;D
-
That trick worked great dan
Your a great man to have about thorn should be paying you for all this help to members.
Uncle
-
I thought they were.
-
I thought they were.
I'm not on their payroll. I really wish I was!
All the best,
Dan.
-
Only joking Dan.
Bob
-
The Audax build is coming along great Anto, I really like the mostly black look. can't wait to hear how the finished bike rides.
Also thanks to Dan for that little tip.
Regards,
Neil
-
Cheers Neil coming along nice still a few bits and pieces to get but should have it running in a week or so I'm mostly walking not much cycling this weather.
just replaced the thorn seatpost with a old dura ace seatpost i now have loads of adjustment on the saddle rails ;) only thing it's a bit marked and it's chrome .
the brooks saddle bag i got for christmas is a pain in the arse to fit old style straps takes forever to tighten and its still very loose not impressed. :'(
thats the latest buzz lads .
cheers
anto.
-
FINISHED at long last just need to add bartape after i take her for a test spin. ;)
anto.
photo's to follow later on by Dan.
-
On Anto's behalf...
Best,
Dan.
-
More...
Best,
Dan.
-
Thanks Dan your a gent ;)..
I'll tip out later to night spin just to see how she feels if the fit is good i'll be one happy camper . really pleased with the entire build This new Tiagra is as good as ultegra super smooth shifting and looks awesome love shimano gear ;)
anto.
-
Looks great Anto.
Bob
-
;)
-
Well done! Looks fantastic, hope it rides as well as it looks.
-
Happy new year indeed, Anto -- looks great!
Looking forward to your report from the road test. Enjoy!
-
Thanks lads ,the spin (ride) went very well 22 kl in just over an hour not bad for an ould fella like me ::)
the bike was just class totally silent super slick gear shifts ,new saddle felt great for first time out mind u the fizik alanti saddles are really good great lights lit up the road no problem good rear one kept the cars well away from my back wheel ;)
yeah overall i'm well pleased probably make a few minor adjustments over time but so far all good.
thanks to Dan for all the help he spent a lot of time compairing sizes for me great help indeed thanks Dan your a brick.
anto
You're welcome, Anto! Latest photo attached for you. Best, Dan.
-
The Audax is looking great Anto, keep us updated on the planning for the tour.
Jim
-
Well done Anto........... CLASS !
Alfie 8)
-
cheers Lads still have a few bits to add when ever i can afford it .
i can't believe i still have the Terry Dolan usually im selling stuff to buy a new bike ,no more selling for this kid im keeping what i have .
scotland is still on the cards for may but all depends on the funds ,i have few tours in mind for here so i'll see what happens.
cheers lads
anto.
-
I have a few tours in mind for here
You've got the bike for it, lad -- enjoy!
-
yip i think so John i love the lightweight system Dan has everything into the carradice longflap should be good for 2 to 3 days touring even more i suppose depending on the weather ;)
-
Hi Anto, the Audax looks the business and sounds like the test ride went well.
I reckon that bike will be perfect for your needs. I agree that Dan's Longflap would be the ideal bag for a short mini tour.
What gearing are you running?
Neil
-
Anto got lit! ;D
Photos with his current lighting setup, attached below.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Thanks Dan yeah i know i'm not right in the head but sure what else would a fella be doing at 12o clock of a monday night only taking photos of the new baby.
i need proper mudguards think i'll go with the sks black whenever.
anto.
-
Outdoors in daylight, detachable rear mudguard fitted.
Best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan there was many a bike got there photo taken beside that shed ;Did
-
Anto's Audax is sporting a new blue County Louth sticker. Matches the 'bar tape.
<Bling!> ;D
Best,
Dan.
-
Looks better in the flesh .next purchase is mudguards the roads are terrible hard to keep the bike clean.NEil I bought the 4703 TIagra chain set triple 50/39/30.tiagra ten speed cassette 11:34 great range of gears and I need them .
-
Anto's Audax in the wild...!
Best,
Dan.
-
thanks Dan for posting the photos bike was class going like a clock pity about the pilot some serious foot and back pain .
can anyone recommend a good stiff sole spd shoes .the shimano shoes i ware i reckon the soles are to soft any thoughts lads :'(
anto.
-
Anto,
A friend of mine in Germany recently had the same problem and ordered carbon inserts/insoles for his SPD shoes. He said they worked a treat and solved his foot pain. Might be worth a look, but they're generally expensive. I believe he got these:
http://www.solestar.de/en/
I have foot issues too; fortunately, my SPD shoe problems were solved completely and less expensively by using Spenco orthotics. They felt so good, I added them to my street shoes. See: https://www.spenco.com/product.aspx?prodid=47&catid=17
They make a variety of models and have one golden benefit: The fabric covering them is really durable so they don't wear out and develop wear-holes in a blink as some kinds do.
The problem of foot comfort while cycling must be widespread, judging by the huge number of inserts/insoles that have flooded the market in the last couple of years. I wouldn't have thought there was enough demand to keep more than a couple firms in business, but now there are dozens, each selling a variety of models. The trick seems to be finding one that works well for you. I've already learned some of the most popular models simply don't agree with me.
All the best,
Dan.
-
this is an ongoing problem with me ,i have 2 sets of orthotics both useless and they cost me a small fortune as well ,i also have 2 sets of ones simular to yours going to try the set i have in my road shes next spin.didn't know u could get carbon insoles might be cheaper than new shoes. ;)
-
Depending on how your road shoes are drilled, you can sometimes fit SPD cleats to them. You won't be walking very far or easily, but it can work if you need to.
If you have a nice, stiff pair of road shoes, it might be worth a try. Just don't walk on the house floors with this combo or June will kill you dead on the spot.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Dan i have a new pair of northwave spd shoes im going to try them about the place for a few days see if i can get them moulded to my foot there tight tho ??? i also have the same northwave in road shoes same problem tight fitting. the sole is pretty stiff moulded hard plastic .
anto.
[Pics added by Dan on Anto's behalf]
-
Looks cracking cycling country, bet it gets windy right on the coast though.
It's a shame that foot and back pain is spoiling your rides. I use Superfeet Blue insoles for my walking boots and trail shoes, my feet feel fine even after 20+ miles backpacking. It could be possible that your foot pain is causing your back pain.
Hope you get yourself sorted,
Neil
-
cheers Neil i have swollen discs not nice.
yeah great cycling country thats part of the coast ride roads are cat baloo ;D ;D mores the pity if the guys were hung for laying tarmac they would be hung innocent that's the truth ;)
i could see the snow on the cooley mountains in the far distance maybe 35 miles away from that spot..
i remember a smart arse engineer said to me on a spin one day the human eye can only see for 12 miles max , how come then i can see the cooley mountains from here then
30odd miles away .soon shut him up. ;D ;D
cheers Neil
anto.
-
Well at last a pain free 35 miles ;)
i used my road pedals and shoes worked great thanks heavens .
just mean taking shoes with me on a tour no big deal i suppose whatever works as the man said.
anto .
[Photo added by Dan on Anto's behalf]
-
The bike looks the business, Anto. Good to hear that our road shoes & pedals worked, too. I use my Sidi road shoes & Look pedals/cleats for touring -- haven't been able to find another setup that offers the same level of comfort. On tour, I carry a pair of "Dawgs" -- lightweight slip-on rubber shoes similar to Crocs. I also carry a pair of flexible covers for my cleats when I'm off the bike but still wearing the Sidis.
-
Yeah going to stick with what works.I will more than likely sell the nedw pedals and shoes.I have crocks but fing them to flat and my feet gets seriously hot in them not good.thanks Dan for the photo .
-
Tough spin with the group this morning 36 miles 14mph average few hills thrown in, man i nearly died cold and crisp morning got dropped 6 miles from home well i sat up no point in killing meself :'(
still good spin and the bike was class pity about the pilot tho.
anto.
-
Keep at it it will be worth it.
Bob
-
If only Bob lol,my back problem gives me a lot of pain when the road starts to go up :'(,also there's a lot of 30 year olds in the group not moaning but makes a fella realize not as young as I once was ;D
-
...also there's a lot of 30 year olds in the group...
Anto...
You're 30 with Experience.
;)
Best,
Dan.
-
That's why I lasted as long as I did ;D
-
"Old age and treachery will always beat youth and exuberance."
-- David Mamet
;)
Best,
Dan.
-
ah i enjoyed it Dan it was a lovely crisp frosty morning pity i didn't have time to take a few photos country side looked beautiful .
got to remember all these lads were on there carbon bikes flying machines i hung in there best i could tho. ;)
-
Smashing bike Anto. Love the blue bar tape. Really nice touch. You've got me thinking now.................. ::)
-
Thanks Jackie blue my favourite color and looks great with black the lads could not get over how well the new tiagra looked.overall I'm a happy camper .still haven't tried fitting racks or mudguards but I won't do that until I get the new tyres .cheers anti.
-
Which tyres are you getting.
-
Conti gatorskins hardshell 700x28 I'm using same tyre in 25 great tyres.
-
Hi All!
Anto's been busy trial-packing his touring load for the Audax. Here's what he told me:
Didn't get to pitch the tent -- way too windy and cold, so I fitted the rear rack. Took a bit of fettling to get it right. I adjusted the panniers as far back as they go so no heel issue's. I think this will be my set up. Everything you see on the bed I can get into the Carradice Longflap, but I still need to pack down quilt and clothes, so I'm going to go with panniers.
Pics attached below.
Best,
Dan.
-
Looking good Anto :)
Bob
-
Cheers Bob bike seems dead solid with the panniers.hopefully this set up will work fine.
-
Nothing stopping you now, the world's your oyster.
Bob
-
Well Ireland will do for now ;D,Bob if I had a good touring buddy like your good self then yes.
-
tried out the audax last night with panniers test run all went well but man was it cold freezing hard i went out at 10pm just 9 miles around the town ,
a friend invited me to Castlewellen up north on Paddys day ,if the weather is good i'll up 50 miles camp overnight head home next day.
i posted photos on facebook last night spin sorry no idea how to post them here :'(
anto.
https://www.google.ie/maps/dir/Newfield+Estate,+Drogheda,+Co.+L%C3%BA,+Ireland/''/@53.998537,-6.7462913,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x48673a17a6c5ef7d:0x73152ee7cedfdaf7!2m2!1d-6.3401015!2d53.7239273!1m5!1m1!1s0x4861225ec5555555:0x99002f26dec84fa9!2m2!1d-5.9659814!2d54.2601445!3e1
104km by car but much longer going the scenic route the route i'll be taking safer and i know the route to newry guess work after that.
-
I'm over on the Oregon Coast in a comms null (poor cell tower coverage).
I'll be home tonight and can post some up for you, Anto.
Best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan enjoy your trip.
-
tried out the audax last night with panniers test run all went well but man was it cold freezing hard i went out at 10pm just 9 miles around the town... i posted photos on facebook last night spin sorry no idea how to post them here
Here ya go, Anto! :)
Best,
Dan.
-
;)
-
Thanks for the pics Jags (and Dan)! I like watching a bike evolve.
How old does the bike have to be before it gets relegated to the shed? It looks quite at home indoors but not sure all family members would agree.
-
the wife will be in the shed before me bike is.
-
Remember where those good meals come from, Anto! ;)
All the best,
Dan.
-
Ah she's well used to me now Dan.
-
ordered sks black mudguards and conti gatorhardshell in 28 today ,im not going to bother using a 28 up front don't think theres any need to be honest, besides i have a new set of conti in 25 just waiting for summer to fit them.so that will be the finishing touches to this lovely audax , have to say i'm well pleased .
roll on the summer.
anto.
-
just fitting these mudguards man there a pain in the ass to get perfect ,gonna need a dremmell to cut stays kinda hard to get it dead centered over the tyre.
watched a utube video made it look very easy :'( :'(.
have to wait now until son inlaw comes with the cutting gear
that's the latest buzz .
anto.
[Photos added from Anto. -- Best, Dan.]
-
Anto,
You'll likely need to attach the fender/mudguard stay ends to the second set of eyelets on the rack.
The 'guards and rack look really nice being black to match the frame. :)
Best,
Dan.
-
Cheers dan the reason I didn't fit the stayes to the second hole was none of the bolts would fit guess I need to drill the hole bigger its not threaded btw.hopefull ill get them finished today thanks dan your a gem what would I do without you. Anto
-
Well i only just got the mudguards sorted ,man never again there's definitely a knack in getting sks fenders spot on.
but yeah i got there in the end no fun when you have 2 grandkids helping you ::) ::).
so that's it me bike is finished i won't annoy you lot again with Anto's Audax next photos will be me cycling the roads of co louth n meath ;)
so yeah hope yis all enjoyed the build from start to finish i certainly did.
anto.
[Photos from Anto added. -- Dan.]
-
Looks terrific, Anto! :)
You may wish to consider adding a front mudflap. A long one can go far toward keeping the drivetrain clean and will really reduce maintenance when riding in poor weather.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Mudguards look great, worth the effort. Just waiting for John's approval.... I agree about the mudflap, makes a big difference.
-
consider that one Dan thanks. ;)
anto.
thanks geocycle don't think i'll be getting any medals from leftpoole ;D ;D
-
Looking good anto ... it just needs a wee black Zefal HPX on the back there ;)
-
Mudguards look great, worth the effort. Just waiting for John's approval.... I agree about the mudflap, makes a big difference.
'Just' need to cut the stays down to hide unsightly ends.
Approval..........?
John ;D
-
Mudguards look great, worth the effort. Just waiting for John's approval.... I agree about the mudflap, makes a big difference.
'Just' need to cut the stays down to hide unsightly ends.
Approval..........?
John ;D
Well done John, I always hold you as the gold standard when it comes to mudguards!
-
Cant cut stays as ihave them fitted in the black plastic thing a me jig that comes with the fenders.nah happy enough there spot on if I do say so myself. I'm surprised nobody notices the rear tyre lol 28 and 25 up front . jim I have the zefal hpx on there.anyway I had plans to go out this morning but my feckin back is in agony and its starting to snow :'(.big thanks to my good friend Dan for all his help from day one and posting all the photos for.me hes one nice guy I don't think in all the years i've been talking to Dan either here or on facebook he utter an angry word to me and god knows I wrecked his head many a time with stupid questions ,so anyway thanks Dan Thorn is super lucky to have you running this forum as we all are.
anto.
-
i put the shimano pedals back on adjusted the cleats on my old shimano shoes and went out around town 8 miles freezing out there lads :o :o.
it was crackin me up i couldn't use the new pedals because of foot pain so had to try again ,this time was much better but still pain in my right foot not anything as near as bad as when i first tried so getting there slowly.
i could feel the difference in the rear 28 conti hard to believe i know but seems 3mm makes a difference but it does ;)
that's the latest buzz from me anyone doing anything worth doing ;)
Anto.
-
Just seen your pictures.
Very very nice looking machine.
Thanks for posting.
Matt
-
You're very welcome, Anto; thanks for the kind words. :)
Based on your photos of them ( http://thorncyclesforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=12167.msg89370#msg89370 ), I think the Laker SPD shoes you got are too tight for you and are causing undue pressure and nerve stimulation under your feet, resulting in pain. Perhaps you could sell them on and try another pair?
Not every shoe works equally well for every person. It is amazing how much difference a change can make. Of all the road cleats I've tried, I found (and still use on some bikes) the old Detto Pietro Article 74 was the only one that really worked (and only after modifying the inside with new arch supports and orthotics). For my SPDs, I initially tried a nice pair of Gyros before switching unsuccessfully to some by Louis Garneau. I found the solution in my Shimano MO-88s, but again only after fitting an insole and an orthotic insert. Till then, my feet were in bits and resulted in neat agony. The point is you'll get there, but it may take a bit of effort to find the "right" shoe for your comfort and efficiency.
I'm surprised nobody notices the rear tyre lol 28 and 25 up front...i could feel the difference in the rear 28 conti hard to believe i know but seems 3mm makes a difference but it does
For sure! Air volume = air spring. It also means you could slightly reduce your tire pressure at the rear for even greater comfort. There's not much tire to protect the rim from potholes evenso, so don't over due it, but you should be able to reduce pressure by at least a couple psi.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Would dropping air pressure not reduce speed.I like the idea of comfort but not at the cost off lower average speed :'(
-
Anto,
The appropriate tire pressure depends on tire volume, so rim width comes into play as well.
This has been covered extensively on the Forum ( http://thorncyclesforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=3798.0 ), so I'll just give a thumbnail summary: A lot of tires are run at unnecessarily high pressures. The recommended pressures printed on the tire sidewalls may well be in excess of what if required or (in the case of wide tires run at maximum pressures) even hazardous to rim life. A wider tire has more air volume, so can be run at slightly lower pressures for greater comfort without sacrificing rolling resistance. Part of the reason depends on the shape of the contact patch at the pavement for narrow vs. wider tires.
A number of studies have shown that pressures that allow a ~15% drop in rim-to-floor distance when loaded is a good rule of thumb for maximizing comfort without increasing rolling resistance. There are various charts and formulas and even some apps that calculate this for you, making it easy. American cyclist and petroleum engineer Frank Berto did the hard work and research behind these figures, based on surveys of a number of bicycle tire makers.
I used to hammer 125psi/8.6bar into 23-25mm tires in the pre-Internet days of long ago (i.e. late 1970s to early 1980s) when the only high quality tires available to me locally for touring were race-training tires. With tires that narrow carrying touring loads on rough gravel roads, higher pressures were absolutely required to avoid pinch flats and rim damage, and I've got the nerve damage in my hands to prove it!
When high quality touring tires became readily available to me in larger volumes, I was quick to mount them. I use the Android Berto Tire Pressure app, which I've found works well for my needs when the proper frame type, bike loads, tire size, and rider/bike weights are entered. To give you some examples for my various 700C randonneur bikes...
• F50psi/R61psi (3.4/4.2bar) with 700x34 tires actual width on wide rims, unladen except for rider weight
• F58psi/R71psi (4.0/4.9bar) with 700x32 tires actual width on narrow rims, unladen except for rider weight
• F49psi/R60psi (3.4/4.1bar) with 700x34 tires actual width on narrow rims, unladen except for rider weight
Though my weight remains constant, the bikes vary in weight, rim width, and tire cross-section/volume, so the same pressure varies from bike to bike.
Despite what might look like low pressures to a road rider, I find these bikes all roll very well over 300-400km day rides and I have experienced no rim or tire damage or pinch flat even on rough surfaces.
If you would like to send me your weight attired in your usual riding kit, your bike's weight wet (with full water bottles), your tire sizes F/R, and the weight and location of any carried luggage, I can calculate a suggested set of tire pressures for your review*. NOTE: Not all tires are the stated volume/size when inflated, so it is best to caliper them to find the actual size. If you don't have calipers, use an adjustable wrench to measure at the widest point of the tire sidewalls, then transfer that measurement to a ruler.
For example (just plucking figures out of the air...), say you weigh 170lbs, the bike with rear rack, pump, and full bottles weighs 25lbs and has classic road bike design, and you're running a 700x25C tire up front and a 700x28C in the rear, then some starting pressures to try would be F66psi/R87psi (4.6/6.0bar). I used pounds for weight because the app requires data be in that format for entry. If you usually use 90psi F/R, this would mean you could try dropping 3psi in the rear and dropping as much as 24psi in front without a huge increase in rolling resistance according to the Berto's findings. I would suggest you start by reducing only 3psi front and rear and seeing how it feels and rides and would not drop too much air from that 25mm front tire, as there's not a lot of protection for the rim. Nothing like a real-world trial with caution to see how it goes. It might help your back. Still a Very Good Idea to avoid the largest potholes whenever you can.
[EDIT: *Done via PM]
Best,
Dan.
-
;) i'll try that cheers.
anto.
-
Anto
Check out these articles by Jan Heine of Compass tire fame. You may be surprised to find that lower pressure is not slower. Neither are wider tires.
https://janheine.wordpress.com/2015/01/26/the-tire-pressure-revolution/
https://janheine.wordpress.com/2016/03/09/tire-pressure-take-home/
https://janheine.wordpress.com/2016/08/22/minimum-tire-pressure/
Happy Riding
Ron
PS Great looking bike!
-
To complement Dan's suggestions, the actual pressures I use on my 700C derailleur bike (probably slightly heavier than an Audax) for my 85Kg/187 pound rider weight are:
Front 65psi
Rear 75psi
Tyres are Schwalbe One 28 mm, actual width a bit less than 28 mm.
I should theoretically use a lower pressure than 65psi in the front, but I don't like to drop the pressure too far, especially with narrow tyres.
As Dan suggests, I start with a fairly high pressure and progressively use lower pressures, but I don't go below a minimum I reckon to be a safe value to avoid pinch punctures. When/if I feel a reduction in performance I add pressure (about 10 psi for narrow tyres, less for wide tyres).
Advantage of using relatively low pressures - more comfort.
Dsadvantage - I need to check tyre pressure more often than someone who always inflates to the maximum permitted pressure.
-
cheers lads sure nothing beats a try but a failure ;)
i ride 90psi all the time so i'll try it our see how i get on thanks
anto.
-
+1 on all Martin said, Anto. :)
Best,
Dan.
-
Echoing Martin and Dan's comments, Anto: On my derailleur bike, I run Schwalbe Marathon Racers, 700x35 (actual around 32-33). With the bike unladen except for rider ( ~87-90 kg, depending on the season) and a seat bag & small h'bar bag, I use about 50-55 PSI in the front, 60 at the rear. Works very well, no road buzz at all. The M'thon Racers have nice flexible sidewalls -- that characteristic, plus the lower pressures, give a good ride, and so far, no pinch flats.
Cheers,
John
-
Cheers John seems there a lot in favor of lower psi i always went with the recommended tire pressure on the side of the tire ,you learn something new every day ;).
i came across a campsite earlier on much closer to home so when the weather picks up( if ever) i'll load up the audax and try it out .
thanks everyone .
anto.
-
Anto and his Audax, out and about in the County Louth countryside...
Best,
Dan.
-
Hi Anto.
Not long back from the house hunting, but I have been periodically looking in at your build. The boy done good, a great build and a super looking machine, that's going to give you lots of miles and smiles. :) :) :)
Regards Alfie.
-
Cheers Alfie did u buy or just looking.
yeah well pleased with the bike tis a nice ride for sure. ;)
anto.
-
Thanks Dan as always .
yeah a nice route to Newgrange roads are terrible but sure a fella gets used to that here.
just 20 odd miles 2 hills thrown in at a very easy pace .
bit of luck i'll get more miles in tomorrow got to get the miles in burn off all the sweet cakes ;D ;D
anto.
-
That bike looks really nice. Good-one Anto!
-
Thanks's Janet yeah nice bike for sure pity tho about the pilot.
i'm having big problems with me feet in agony on every ride,i hadto stop 3 times today 17 mile spin to adjust the cleat on my right shoe no joy still in lots pain,
so im going to use the time pedals off my roadbike fingers crossed or even toes they work much better. :'( :'(
the feckin joys of cycling ::)
anto.
-
Sorry to hear about your feet. Have you ever considered going back to the old toeclips. I can never get cleats in the right place either.
Janet
-
no not yet janet i have toe clips but going to try out my road shoes first .
-
Anto took his Audax out for an airing today...
Best,
Dan.
-
Thanks for posting Dan,
yeah just done 28 miles dull windy kinda of a day but need to get some miles in the legs. the road shoes are way better but still that feckin pain in my right foot ,i won't mention my back
i'm a bloody wreck but a happy little camper at the best of times.
anto.
oh those photos are part of a route i do around the boyne valley hilly in places. ;)
-
Not the best day for riding but a great day for indoor photography!
Latest from Anto showing his Audax in full trim....
Best,
Dan.
-
cheers Dan it was raining here so i tried out my new camera, canon six million with auto focus and fireproof lens great bit of kit. ;)
anto.
-
i tried out my new camera...great bit of kit.
The photos really show it, Anto. They look good even in low indoor light.
Best,
Dan.
-
;)
-
Anto,
apologies, I thought I saw a speck of dirt on the right fork, then I realised it was a wire wound round.
Congratulations on getting the missus to keep the new bike so clean ;D
Julian.
-
thanks julian ah she's a good one right enough the wife that is ;D
yeah i keep the baby in good nick cleaned after every ride, well put it like this no one else is going to clean it for me not even the wife especially the wife . ;D ;D
hope all's well in your camp Julian are you getting much cycle done.
anto.
-
That's one classy looking bike, Ant. :)
-
Cheers Janet yeah I'm well pleased,the wife is putting me on a diet tomorrow she said I was way overweight cant say she's far wrong. :'(
-
More bike work and less cake is what's required ;) Mind you, having said that. It hasn't stopped p***ing down here all day....again :'(
Janet
-
Ah janet the weather is cat baloo im becoming more and more a fair weather cyclist.its going out in the rain that bugs me if im caught out so well and good.I'm a total wuss. ;D
-
Me too ::)
-
Two new from Anto...hilly ride and looking down on Melifont Abbey.
Best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan yeah it was cold right enough but i enjoyed it loads of steep hills ,i need to get the miles in the legs ;),i'm going to the doctor tomorrow to see if i can get a stronger pain killer for my bloody back .anyway hope yis all enjoy the photos.
anto.
-
Anto/Dan,
It is great to see these ride photos.
I also seem to have turned into a fair weather cyclist over winter, roll on spring and some decent weather.
I have kept my hand (legs?) in by shopping by bike as often as possible - it also keeps me used to some luggage weight on the bike.
Julian.
-
Julian i don't want to use the panniers just yet more into getting miles in the legs ,once i up the miles i will probably use one pannier for the brew up in some lonely graveyard out in the sticks.i must be a bit of a weirdo but there nice peacefull places to stop for half an hour cup tea sambo relax then head off leaving nothing behind only good thoughts,
anto.
-
I also seem to have turned into a fair weather cyclist over winter, roll on spring and some decent weather.
That describes me today. We got hit with more snow/sleet that froze on contact this morning. I took the bike out into the drive and ended up using it as a cane when my house-warmed shoe soles began impersonating ice skates. "We" (we both royal and collective) managed to get back into the garage, where it seemed a Good Idea to call it a day till the "regular" rain hits this afternoon and melts the slick stuff.
Wishing for sunshine and 23°C temps... ???
All the best,
Dan.
-
roll on the summer 8)
-
Been like summer here in west central Scotland today and yesterday, nice warm (ish) sunshine and light winds.
-
Happy days Rual 8)
anto.
-
Julian i don't want to use the panniers just yet more into getting miles in the legs ,once i up the miles i will probably use one pannier for the brew up in some lonely graveyard out in the sticks.i must be a bit of a weirdo but there nice peacefull places to stop for half an hour cup tea sambo relax then head off leaving nothing behind only good thoughts,
anto.
Strangely enough for me (a normal person :)) I too use graveyards for tea breaks if I have been on a nice ride. So Anto is doing nothing untoward.
John
-
anyone else use graveyards for a tea break. ;)
-
Grave diggers do ;D
-
anyone else use graveyards for a tea break. ;)
Yep, always good places to get a bit of shelter from the wind, this was our lunch stop on Mull a couple of years ago,
-
great photo.
-
Bus shelters and telephone boxes are also on the list of impromptu lunch spots in bad weather.
-
anyone else use graveyards for a tea break. ;)
I do. Its quiet, has birdsong and I'm out of the way. I read a lot of cycling books and it would seem that many do. Josie Dew does for one. Bus shelters definitely. Not tried a brew-up in a telephone box before.
Janet
Nice photies BTW.
-
i come across some really nice graveyards on my travels in the country side,
i always head for the really old headstones simply because i'm probably the only visitor (geek) these graves will get and guaranteed it's going to be the quietest spot ;).
mind u i would not camp in a graveyard no way danno :-\ ;D ;D
anto.
-
anto,
you are not alone, we visited the grave of Kirkpatrick Macmillan on a recent KM Rally
Julian.
-
mind u i would not camp in a graveyard no way danno
I have, and always peacefully. Depends on which side of the grass you are, I suppose. I spend lots of time in cemeteries when touring, mostly using them for rest breaks or as windbreaks.
I find them quiet, peaceful, restful places.
One of my all time favorites is the final resting place of John Baptiste Charbonneau ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Baptiste_Charbonneau ), youngest member of the Lewis and Clark expedition and son of guide Sacajawea. The cemetery is pretty much in the middle of nowhere in Eastern Oregon desert-ranching country, but there are remembrances left there by visitors from all over the world...odd stuff, too: Leica lens caps, running shoes used to win prestigious races (according to the tags left with them), full wine bottles, wreathes, small bells, hand beaded prayer sticks, rubber wrist bands, artificial flower bouquets, necklaces, coins, keys and keyrings, wreaths, small figurines, Zeiss pentroof binoculars, and the little charcoal "pine trees" designed to freshen the air in smoker's cars.
Best,
Dan.
-
nice bit of local and world history there lads ,
i doubt very much anyone will be taking photo's or leaving anything on my grave .
anto.
-
Don't know Anto, you're famous on this forum. ;)
-
Hah not so sure about famous bob more like pest. ;D.although a nice pest..
-
30 hilly miles doe today , great day here sun not a lot of wind nice dry roads long may it last.
my poor back and right foot was in feckin agony i had planned to do a 50 miler but the pain was to bad ,still i enjoy what i did no point in complaining no one listens.
Anto.
-
Just a thought Anto, why don't you try flat pedals and see if that helps your foot.
Bob
-
i did bob the new shimano pedals i bought for the audax is flat one side .
i switched back to my road shoes all was going well until today :'(
i think i'm going to have to get my dolan back on the road until i see if my set up on the audax is any different,i have it set up like the dolan mind you but something a miss somewhere.
anto.
-
Good luck with that Anto.
-
I need it bob ;)
-
Just home from the bikefit studio,
he made some mega adjustments to my set up .
cleats.bars saddle showed me before and after on big video screen (man am i out of shape) ;D ;D i'm as fat as a fool but yeah kinda knew that. :'(
so it's down to me to loose a few stone and start stretching exercises he showed me for the back .
it took him a good hour and half to get me set up correctly and he didn't charge me what about that for service mega fantastic.
cheers
anto.
-
anto,
that sound like very good news.
Julian.
-
Sounds positive Anto.
-
I hope it helps you on your beloved audax.
-
Julian i have a bit of a dose on me so can't get out to test the new position just yet,
the guy that done the fit was an international rider one of the top riders in Ireland so he knows his stuff, very nice guy .
he email me about an hour ago to make sure i do the exercises every day ,
i haven't much hope to be honest of loosing weight even tho i gave up all the biscuits and cakes and crisps the weight just won't move .but i'll certainly do the exercises every day ;)
anto.
cheers Janet me too.
-
Just in from a night spin not far just around town,
i was testing out my loaded panniers for this tour in may, i managed to get everything i need into 2 rear Ortlieb panniers 10kg that's tent included,
i still need a barbag for the usual stuff have to go begging i think but i've a couple good buddies we lend one another stuff every now and again .
i sent Dan a few photos he might post them but he's busy at the moment.
the bike felt great obviously light up front but i like that ,the barbag will balance things out i reckon, i really don't like front panniers it's a roadie thing ;D ;D.
i'll go over the packing list with a fine comb over the next month or so i want to keep things as light as possible but still be comfy .
i have an overnighter planned for next month another test run although i think im ok but sure i'll give it a blast any hoo .
that's the buzz so far lads and lassies roll on the summer.
anto.
mad as a feckin brush.
-
i sent Dan a few photos he might post them but he's busy at the moment.
Here ya go, Anto!
All looks really grand...the black panniers with the Audax's matte black paint is "class". Pilot looks good, too.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan,still raining here when will it stop :'(
-
July
-
still raining here when will it stop
July
...for two hours? ::)
We've had years like that here as well. Seemed like it'd never stop.
All sympathy, all the best,
Dan.
-
Hi All!
As a follow-on to the loaded touring gear photos above, Anto emptied his panniers and sent me a list and photos detailing the contents. In his own words...
=====
CLOTHING
• 2 bibs shorts
• arm and leg warmers
• headband
• light long finger gloves
• 4 pair socks
• 1 long sleeve base layer
• 1 short sleeve base layer
• 1 T shirt for off bike ware........
• helmet
• sun glasses
• 2 cycling jerseys .
• 2 bidons.
=====
COOKING GEAR
Basic, including:
• stove
• kettle
•small pots
• cup
• pan
• spork
• knive
• gas cartridges
SHELTER
• Naturehike tent
• Exped matt,
• down quilt
• thermarest pillow,
•silk liner
• lights for inner tent.
• small blow up pillow for sitting on folds small and flat.
SPARES
• usual spares for bike what i carry all the time no change there
• might take a spare tyre.
RAIN CLOTHING
• light shower proof jacket
• rain pants
• maybe overshoes.
OFF BIKE CLOTHING
• pants
• light jacket
• trainers
Just need to get bar bag and fill it with all the usual gear.
I'll fine tune everything in the coming weeks I have everything packs in dry bags. I have faith in the bike don't think it's under any stress with the load. It's a well built bike so fingers crossed all goes well.
=====
Best,
Dan.
-
A bit more from Anto...
=====
I can get all my cycling clothes into the red dry bag. The blue compression Vango holds my off the bike cloths. The net bag u see is all bathroom stuff. Red container is first aid. Blue Vango compression bag is my down quilt. Yellow dry bag is Thermarest pillow...really need that; great bit of kit, it expands to the size of a home pillow...very comfy. I need to add pants and rain gear but they wont take up much room. Barbag i'll borrow. That's it i think. Tool bag under saddle.
5kg in each rear pannier.
=====
Best,
Dan.
-
cheers Dan if i can cut more of that list i will .
cheers
anto.
-
Still too much!
-
Wot no Food! :o
Julian, hungry already!
-
buy food on route Julk.
don't think i can cut back maybe 1 pair cycling bibs and 1 jersey get rid of a few pots save couple grams .
this tour is 6 days not certain on the miles but i reckon 350 miles ,so a change of cloths would be nice ;D
anyway i'll keep at it until i'm happy enough with the load .
anto
-
30miles today lovely crisp day tad windy but sure happy enough its not feckin raining.I wasn't going well to be honest but only first hard spin in three weeks.group spin tomorrow more than likely suffer like a dog.
[Photos attached by Dan.]
-
plenty long drags today any amount of hills in my part of the country look worse than they actually are.
-
Too many socks in that list of your jags.
No need for more than 3 pairs max.
-
1 pair on ,1 pair in the wash and 1 pair spare. All you need and can be applied to other items.
-
cheers lads 1 took off one tail light and 1 pot ::)
the socks don't weigh anything worth mentioning everything else i reckon i'm going to need over a week cycling.
i seam sealed the tent last night sure hope it holds up to irish weather.
to be totally honest this tour might not come off.
i was out cycling with the group yesterday and suffered like a dog for most of the 40 miles we did.bloody back of mine is crackin me up wasn't the better of it today :'(
but i'll keep going and pray things get better ,i'm not going to go with the group anymore great bunch and all as they are but i'm just under to much pressure so nice and easy solo rides from now on..
anto.
-
Stick with it Anto. I'm sure you will enjoy travelling at your own pace with no pressure on you. You can go as fast or as slow as you like or stop when you like. A far more enjoyable experience than hunting in a pack. ;)
Bob
-
I'm sure you will enjoy travelling at your own pace with no pressure on you.
Agreed with Bob here....
Stay with it, Anto. It'll all come together. Barely Spring yet, still early days.
All the best,
Dan.
-
cheers lads yeah it makes sense right enough ;)
anto.
-
Made me mind up I'm going,ill be as much pain sitting here as I will riding me bike
-
That's positive Anto, I'm sure everything will be ok.
-
Cheers bob I sure hope your right .where are you and your buddy off to this year.
-
Made me mind up I'm going,ill be as much pain sitting here as I will riding me bike
Hoping for the best for you, Anto. If you don't try, you can't do. If you do and don't succeed, at least you'll have tried (and will probably have some good stories to tell After).
All good. :)
Best,
Dan.
-
Thanks Dan i'll get there in the end,right now im away to me ot.
Anto
-
Latest from Anto on his 2 April ride...
Spin today, only twenty odd miles with a few hills throw in. That's Monasterboice graveyard, a great tourist spot. I got talking to two Australians -- nice couple enjoying their tour of Ireland. There's a lot of history on that cross, no idea what, u would have to google it ;D.
Best,
Dan.
-
...a couple more from Anto's 2 April ride to Monasterboice graveyard...
[Dan.]
-
Cheers Dan nice day for peddling a bike ;)
anto.
-
Big gravestones.
-
;D dont come much bigger or older Raul.
-
fantastic spin this morning 45 miles sun all the way pure magic great to see a bit of good weather long time waiting.
cheers
anto.
-
Looking at the photos (really nice looking bike, the white seat is striking with the black) I realize that judging by the seat to handlebar positions, that Anto is much more fit that I.
But what IS that blob, behind the Rohloff? Is that some new-fangled device to create extra drag, for the really fit?
-
That's a very smart bike.
-
Looking at the photos (really nice looking bike, the white seat is striking with the black) I realize that judging by the seat to handlebar positions, that Anto is much more fit that I.
But what IS that blob, behind the Rohloff? Is that some new-fangled device to create extra drag, for the really fit?
thats what they call class ;)
those ould heavy rohloff would only slow me down,
i will ask my man Da n to post up a few pics.
anto
-
i will ask my man Dan to post up a few pics.
And so...! ;D
All the best,
Dan.
-
'Couple more...
Best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan sorry for being a pest but I know there probably a massive long queue of thorn owners mad to view antos photos.what can I say.
-
They're clamoring, Anto. :)
Some real nice photos there. You look very intrepid in that one.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Stuffing my face by t he seaside.I spott d d the group I usually go out wi t h saturday mornings but igVe them a wide birth I was enjoying my solo ride to much.
-
Not one reply isn't that cat baloo i'm posting no more photos im very disappointed in you lot what does a fella have to do ,i just dont know :'( :'(.
anto
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
I made a few adjustments to the audax today, dropped the bars by a Cm,put the shimano spd pedals back on adjusted the cleats.just done a hardish 12 miles hilly and windy but all went very well no foot or back pain bigger ride needed to be sure to be sure.
My tour starts the end of may so like to get pilot and bike in good working order ;)
Anto.....
[Photos added by Dan on Anto's behalf]
-
Sure is pretty countryside, Anto. Looks like the old family photos. Bike looks great too!
All the best,
Dan.
-
Great that you are getting out on the audax. What's the current tour plan?
-
Thanks Dan what would I do without ya.
Geo touring ireland end of may six days camping all the way hope the weather is kind.
-
Got a fantastic sunny spin in today 45miles out by the coast home by the sticks lovely.
The forecast for the week is only brilliant but I have to finish painting my Daughter house,wonder would she give me the week off ;D ;D
Anto.
[Photos added by Dan on Anto's behalf.]
-
Nice photos and nice bike, Anto -- definitely moving from spring towards summer.
Here, we're experimenting with weather more like what you're used to (I'm told) -- cool and wet, with occasional patches of sun. Up into the hills yesterday for 3+ hours, light rain all the time. Felt like I was practising for a UK-&-I trip, and I was asking myself, "Do I really want to do this?" The good news is that my rain gear worked well, and my mudguards and Chainglider kept most of the crud away from my drivetrain.
-
Cheers Dan ;),
John the weather here at the moment is only fantastic puts everyone in good form we are just not used to warm sunny days so when it happens get out and enjoy it ;D
yeah love the bike it's a wee gem i keep it in top nick all the time runs like a dream.
didn't get out today painting for my daughter house hopefully i'll get a good spin in tomorrow, hah better not take any photos or Dan will swing for me ;D ;D
anto.
-
hah better not take any photos or Dan will swing for me ;D ;D
Nah, I'm still good for it, Anto. Nice to see the very countryside one branch of my ancestors came from. D'ya know, they lived only a few doors down from you.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Small world Dan u never know.
-
So next tuesday i'm off around Ireland .
i cleaned my audax to perfection yesterday made certain it was working like a clock ;D
today i pitched my tent in my daughters garden as i dont have a garden :'
it took me all of 40 minutes to get it pitched im no tent expert .
it pitches all in one but for some reason the inner undone itself from the outer.
must be haunted ???
anyhooo i got it sorted so i think im all set bike ready panniers packed legs in not to bad a shape all i need now is a good week of sunny weather .
anto.
-
So next tuesday i'm off around Ireland .
i cleaned my audax to perfection yesterday made certain it was working like a clock ;D
today i pitched my tent in my daughters garden as i dont have a garden :'
it took me all of 40 minutes to get it pitched im no tent expert .
it pitches all in one but for some reason the inner undone itself from the outer.
must be haunted ???
anyhooo i got it sorted so i think im all set bike ready panniers packed legs in not to bad a shape all i need now is a good week of sunny weather .
anto.
Hope you and the audax have a great time and the weather is kind.
-
Gracious ;)
-
Great stuff, jags -- look forward to your stories. Good thing you did a test-pitch of your tent!--that's why it's a recommended practice :-)
Safe journeys, and enjoy the decent weather I've ordered for you,
John
-
Cheers John forecast is for showers but warming up.thanks for ordering that john your a decent young man...
Anto.
-
Anto,
So did the Audax manage a camping tour?
John
-
Anto,
So did the Audax manage a camping tour?
John
Good question, Anto was last heard of heading over the horizon, hope he is OK....!
-
The bike was fantastic can't say the same for he pilot, :'(
4 days into the tour my back caved in just could not go any further.
i was fine on the flat but as soon as the road went up i died a death .
.
my back is in a bad way now so not to much cycling
such as life i suppose getting old ::)
we had a good time bikepacker and meself had some good laughs ,weather was fantastic roads were great .
all the gear worked great except for the bloody noisy exped synmatt lucky i wasn't fired of the campsite it creaked like crazy every time i moved .
anyway i wont be doing anymore cycle touring overnighters maybe but certainly not multyday tours.
cheers all
anto.
-
:-\ :-\ :-\
-
Sorry to hear you didn't reach your goal but pleased you had some good times. Even an overnight stop can make a bike ride into an adventure, hope your back allows you to get out again soon.
-
Hi Anto,
Sorry to hear that your back is in a bad way, there's nothing worse. Best thing to do is complete rest, put your feet up, kettle on and watch the Tour for the next 3 weeks :D.
Hopefully you'll be felling better and putting some light day rides in before too long.
All the best,
Neil
-
I hear you Neil 8)
-
Latest from Anto...some lovely flower baskets over his equally lovely Audax.
Best,
Dan.
-
Which is the nicest tho flowers or me bike.
I was just home from a great thirty miles so I spent a good hour cleaning it to perfection.
Anto.
-
I was seriously thinking of selling my two fantastic bikes and buying an Ebike.with my back problem hills can be a curse.and now the doctor reckons I have a mild hernia.im slowly falling apart.came out of the pharmacy last week with a wheelbarrow full of drugs :'(.
Still one must not grumble sure no one listens ;D ;D
Anto
-
My wife has had back trouble for years. She rides a bike with "sit-up-and-beg" handlebars and her back is nearly vertical. Fairly wide Schwalbe Supreme 42 mm tyres help with the comfort, they still roll well even with quite low pressures. It seems to work for her, so maybe you should try and borrow a bike like that to see if a radical change in position works for you or not. For a test ride, it doesn't have to be an E-bike.
I've ridden that style of bike fairly often myself, notably borrowed bikes in the Netherlands and the "visitor" bikes I keep at our island flat. "Sit-up-and-beg" isn't what I prefer (I may change my mind when I get older), but with a suitable wide saddle (say a Brooks with springs) I am comfortable enough, just a bit slower due to the increased air resistance.
-
Martin I had a probikefit done and it worked wonders i could not believe the difference it made.
Nah I reckon im goosed as far as everbeen partof the bike is concerned.
Im one of these guys who believes the lighter the bike the easiest it is to ride .
My dolan LeTape is a class bike light and fast,the thorn is also great but no where near the stiffness of the dolan great for group rides.
-
A bit more radical (and expensive), but a recumbent bike or trike might be better for your back than a conventional bike. On the minus side, recumbents are reputed to by harder to climb hills with. Not tried one myself yet.
-
I toured with a lad from the uk he was riding a bent,flying machine but yeah he died on hills thankgod he was killing me on the flat, ahh to old to change now.
Anto.
-
Hi Al!
Here's a few more shots of Anto's Audax, taken on his ride today. Last one shows it all cleaned and tidy, ready for the next adventure.
Best,
Dan.
-
Thank's again Dan .
sure is a lovely bike to ride nothing seems to faze it loaded or unloaded rides like a dream 8) 8)
on sunday i met a big sportive ride i jumped in with 6 lads that were motoring, i dont think there were to pleased that an old guy on a touring bike staying with them carbon warriors ;D ;D.
next few bob i get i'd like to put a conti 28 up front (i'm using the conti 25 at the moment good tyre) only reason i stay on rough back roads most of my spins so the 28 might make the going a bit more comfortable ;)
anto.
-
Great 40 miles in this morning around the Boyne Valley super day for cycling the Audax was going like a dream never missed a beat and i went up some rough tracks not a bother on her . took plenty photos but they wont up load i'll try sending them to me buddy Dan.
anto.
-
i'll try sending them to me buddy Dan.
Probably the best thing is email them to me, Anto. I'm currently waaaaay up in the woods on the Nomad on logging roads and about to go deeper. Will lose my cell signal soon, so I'll get your piccies when I return home.
All the best,
Dan.
-
good Stuff enjoy the trip hope you don't meet any of those big hairy creatures you know the one's big claws and lots teeth. :o :o
anto.
ps no big deal on photos Dan u can look at them on facebook enjoy the trip.
-
next few bob i get i'd like to put a conti 28 up front (i'm using the conti 25 at the moment good tyre) only reason i stay on rough back roads most of my spins so the 28 might make the going a bit more comfortable ;)
I reckon you should feel some extra comfort with a 28 rather than a 25, so long as it is a similar high-quality tyre. Theoretically you shoud run 28's at 20-25% less pressure than 25's, which should also contribute to comfort.
And the very slight weight/aerodynamic cross section increase shouldn't make any appreciable difference to your speed. On back roads you may even be a tad faster with wider tyres.
-
cheers Martin,i would be buying the same conti in 28 .
i always inflate to 90psi front and rear never found a problem to be honest seems to be the sweet spot for me probably wrong i usually am ;)
anto.
-
Photos from Anto's 7 August 2017 ride. Lovely shots, these...
On his behalf,
Dan.
-
More photos from Anto's 7 August 2017 rides...
Best,
Dan.
-
The bike was fantastic can't say the same for he pilot, :'(
4 days into the tour my back caved in just could not go any further.
i was fine on the flat but as soon as the road went up i died a death .
.
my back is in a bad way now so not to much cycling
such as life i suppose getting old ::)
we had a good time bikepacker and meself had some good laughs ,weather was fantastic roads were great .
all the gear worked great except for the bloody noisy exped synmatt lucky i wasn't fired of the campsite it creaked like crazy every time i moved .
anyway i wont be doing anymore cycle touring overnighters maybe but certainly not multyday tours.
cheers all
anto.
I don't visit this forum very often so have only just picked up on this thread. I would like to say that jags is understating the pain he was in from his back. Anyone who saw him at the time would know how much he was suffering. It was not only the cycling but also getting up and down into the low tent that made it much worse.
Jags hope you do get your back all sorted and hope to do another tour (not camping) with you at sometime.
-
Alan ive turned into a junky thats the truth.
im getting plenty miles in but easy peasy no hero stuff ;)
yeah i enjoyed the time we had your a total expert in touring i was kinda hoping you would get us lost one of the days so as could slag you off in a nice way ;D ;D
great to go somewhere sunny super smooth roads great hotels and the craic every night
sure i might as well dream here as in bed. ;D
anto.
-
48miles today very strong wind but had it on my back for the last 20 miles .
As usual the sun was blazing super blue sky no traffic happy days...... :D
-
48miles today very strong wind but had it on my back for the last 20 miles .
As usual the sun was blazing super blue sky no traffic happy days...... :D
Glad that you're finally getting some good weather, Anto. And if there is a strong wind, at least it is good to have it on your back for the ride home, rather than the other way around.
- DaveS
-
Weather was cat baloo David Dull plenty showers but warm so not to bad ;)
the only wind direction i hate is east means tough spin home. today was south west makes for great cycling. ;)
mind you i'm feckin suffering now my back is in bits, when I'm cycling i'm fine but once i stop PAINNNNN..
anto.
-
Got a great 40 miles in today on my Class Audax, man i love this bike pleasure to ride and with the new Tyres on Conti gator hardshell 28 do a great job on soaking up the bumpy irish roads happy days. ;)
took plenty photos of lovely Irish country side nice weather at last not to much wind and blue sky.
Dan on the injured list so probably can't post photos.all in good time.
anto.
-
Dan on the injured list so probably can't post photos.all in good time.
Soon's I can, Anto. Not quite there yet.
ATB,
Dan.
-
No bother Dan hope all's going well. ;)
Anto.
-
Avoided the IV antibiotics so far, but it will be close. Arm's swolled like a balloon red as a tomato. Typing makes it worse.
ATB,
Dan
-
Avoided the IV antibiotics so far, but it will be close. Arm's swolled like a balloon red as a tomato. Typing makes it worse.
ATB,
Dan
Sounds awful, get well soon. I hope you're back on the bike for some autumnal rides.
-
Avoided the IV antibiotics so far, but it will be close. Arm's swolled like a balloon red as a tomato. Typing makes it worse.
ATB,
Dan
Take things easy Dan sounds like your still in a lot of pain :'( :'(
get well soon .don't answer this post feet up find a good film to watch .
cheers
anto.
-
Got a great 40 miles in today on my Class Audax, man i love this bike pleasure to ride and with the new Tyres on Conti gator hardshell 28 do a great job on soaking up the bumpy irish roads happy days. ;)
took plenty photos of lovely Irish country side nice weather at last not to much wind and blue sky.
Dan on the injured list so probably can't post photos.all in good time.
Here ya go, Anto! ;)
All the best,
Dan.
-
Cheers Dan obviously your on the mend ;)
Anto
-
what a miserable day here lashing rain sky is black i'm truly pi..ed off >:( >:(.
just though i'd share that moan for the day.
anto.
-
anto,
I have been washing a sailing dinghy down in the back garden today in the glorious sunshine and warm wind. ;D
However I can see from the weather radar that your prayers may be answered as all your rain is heading here. :(
I hope you get out soon in some sunshine.
Julian.
-
what a miserable day here lashing rain sky is black
Sounds like a Saturday in Cashel in May. ;) ;)
-
Well I was getting more depressed by the minute so I put the rain gear on and headed up the river 8km walk umbrella broke :'( .
I was half thinking of heading west tomorrow cycle the greenway 80km trip on bike 150km in car.I'll see what tomorrow brings.
Wise words there Alan but sure u know me might as wel be talking to the wall. ;D
-
what a miserable day here lashing rain sky is black
Sounds like a Saturday in Cashel in May. ;) ;)
did u get anymore tours done since i seen u last.
anto.
-
Some weird weather going down... An hour ago, we just had our first rain in about three weeks. The past week-plus, we've had daytime highs of 30-32°, with humidex readings of 40. This is late July/early August weather at the end of Sept. The daytime highs of the past week are about 3° higher than previous records (set all of 8 years ago!)
Things go back to "normal" tomorrow -- a cold front is going through, and Thursday shd be sunny with a high of about 18, breeze from the NW. sounds like a good day for a ride in the hills :)
-
Mr Trump reckons climate change is all a hoax .
weather is crazy ,mind you can't depend on Irish weather one minute it's raining next minute the sun's out ,
today on my walk i though it wise to take rain paints ;) half way up the river it lashed rain so i wipped out the pants had to take my boots off witch was a struggle i managed tho, but the pants were about 3 sizes to small had to wip out the swiss army knife and cut the elastic in the waste ;D ;D.
i'm a top geek for sure it was about 4 years or more since i bought them i was couple stone lighter then .
yeah anyhoo i hate this feckin weather roll on the summer.
if i win the lottery i'm out of here.
anto.
-
...weather is crazy...
<nods> It certainly is going all wiggly-woggly here, Anto.
On 19 September we already had snow at one of Oregon's mountain ski resorts...
http://www.mtbachelor.com/live-cams/
Down in the Valley today, it has turned hot -- currently 29.4°C/85°F.
Best,
Dan.
-
When we get heavy snow witch is not very often thank god,the country comes to a halt .
-
what a miserable day here lashing rain sky is black
Sounds like a Saturday in Cashel in May. ;) ;)
did u get anymore tours done since i seen u last.
anto.
Since Ireland I went to both the York and Mildenhall Rallies taking three days to cycle there for both. I camped on the way and while I was there but took the train home because of family events. That’s all the cycle camping I have done since I saw you.
I have twice been down to Devon visiting family taking three days each way but staying at Hostels. Also did a couple of short five day tours with Pauline starting and finishing at home but staying B&B.
We are doing another short five day tour in Wales next week. Again using B&Bs.
Like I said on that campsite at Cashel I think I am getting too old to both cycle and camp so I would prefer to just keep cycling.
-
Well done Alan your as strong as a horse on that bike flying machine .
i'm not long in from a 33 mile spin very windy and dull typical Irish weather still good to get out.
yeah keep cycling buddy once we stop we had it ::)
anto.
-
Not long in for a 46 mile very windy spin lots of hills as well , felt more like 60 miles i'm knackered now need to put the feet up ;D
Audax is class super smooth i love it, my Dolan is gathering dust in the spare room i'll only take her out if i decide to join the carbon warriors at the weekend otherwise it's staying put ::)
that's the latest buzz from anto .
anto.
-
Still clocking up the miles this week 36 today 40 on Monday or was that Sunday cant remember. :'(
tomorrow looks good weather wise so hopefully i'll get another good spin in on me lovely Audax.
since i got the Thorn the Dolan is gathering dust in the spare Room shame really it's a crackin bike friend of mine bought one from Dolan bikes only last week he loves it..
Anyhow anto is enjoying his Audax still haven't a clue how to post photos from my phone on here and im not asking Dan ,i drive that poor man mental just as well he loves me ;D ;D.
anto.
-
Great stuff, Anto! Press on
regardless audaxiously.
John
-
still haven't a clue how to post photos from my phone on here and im not asking Dan ,i drive that poor man mental just as well he loves me
I do indeed love you Anto, and will post your photos when I return home to more regular cell service. I'm currently in the wilds of Oregon's Coast Range on a connection that chugs along just slightly faster than dialup. Ohkeh for text, notsomuch for photos.
I should return Friday. If I forget, shoot me a PM.
All the best,
Dan.
-
;D ;D no bother Dan im just back from a picnic with my crazy Grand kids .
would have been a great day for cycling but duty called.
anto
-
All photos from Anto's 1 November 2017 ride.
Posted on his behalf.
Best,
Dan.
-
cheers Dan i think everyone lost interest but sure as long as i don't ;D ;D.
still riding like a dream.
thanks Dan.
Anto.
-
still riding like a dream
Everyone needs a dream, Anto -- stick with yours! :)
-
Sure will John ;)
-
Haven't been out in yonks totally lost interest in all things cycling :'(.
i'm doing my best not to put them up for sale ,selling stuff on line brings the worst out in people that's the truth,some of the reply's i had on facebook on my Dolan was beyond words.
so i think i'll retire my Audax to the spare room until this feeling passes i would lose a shed load of money if i were to sell them just now :'( :'(
reasons for selling ,
im 3 stone overweight
feckin back pain not sure which is worse ::)
thinking of taking up golf again,only thinking mind u.
so called cycling buddies crack me up most unloyal people on planet earth thats a fact.
traffic .anyway moan over next few weeks will decide what i do .
anto
-
Nooooooooooooooooooo! :o
Any thoughts of selling your Audax should be immediately banished from your mind, Anto!
You would regret it deeply...! :'(
The feeling will pass. ??? Really! Cycling will eat away at the weight overage. 8) A nice ride does one a world of good. :)
All the best,
Dan.
-
Golf, a good walk spoiled... better use your nice new boots IMO.
I had a cycling-light three months at the beginning of this year for family reasons but having got out again I feel so much better. Stops you becoming a miserable so and so if nothing else!
-
cheers lads yeah as u know i'm not right in the head. :o
anto.
-
I have told you get on a plane over here before the 8th June and you will have a great time with Rich and lots of others you know. Best way I can think of for getting rid of your blues.
-
Did you know that's my birthday alan I'd say its a no no frank is coming home from america and moving into a new house so I reckon he will keep me and june busy.
-
Take it easy jags, I know how lacking motivation can get anyone down, but there's nothing wrong with putting something aside for a while, no need to be hard on yourself about it.
There's plenty of evidence for the relationship between physical exercise and mental well being, so if not cycling try and find something else, there's nothing wrong with a round of golf...
When I'm "off" cycling I go to the gym at least every other day, sometimes have to force myself out the door, but then get a lot from it in a relatively short time.
Whatever you do, just take care of yourself.
-
Anto, your post has forced me out of lurking on this forum.
Your contributions here frequently cheer me up, often because I hear my long gone Irish relatives in your voice!
All I can say, from personal experience, is don't let go of the bike. I found that just being outside and moving (howvever slowly) always helps when I'm low. If not cycling then walking, it just changes the perspective.
Can appreciate how the back pain must drag you down though. Keep the bike safe, and be kind to yourself!
Rob
-
Cheers lads appreciate the kind words ;)
i'm a geek for doing things on the spur of the moment ,but yeah certainly don't want to sell my Thorn it's a super machine for sure.
i will more than likely sell my Dolan if i get the money im looking for it,i don't use it now no more fast riding for this ould bird and certainly no more group cycling .
anyway thanks lads the Audax is staying put it took me long enough to get the money together for it so i'm keeping it ;D
Anto.
-
Glad to know your Audax is safe again, Anto -- take your time, go easy on yourself, and ease back into cycling.
i'm a geek for doing things on the spur of the moment
Nothing wrong with being a wee bit impulsive, to be sure, but let me suggest that if you feel a discard coming on, please check with us first -- we'll try to talk you out of it. ;)
Cheers, J.
-
Posted on Anto's behalf...latest pics of his Audax 22May2018.
Best,
Dan.
-
I especially like the "Anto blue" touches including the County Louth sticker on the seat tube. :)
All the best,
Dan. (...who also keeps his bikes immaculate)
-
Thanks Dan your a star .
yip i keep my bikes in pristine condition pity i don't do the same with my body. :'(
cheers Dan
Anto.
-
Glad to know your Audax is safe again, Anto -- take your time, go easy on yourself, and ease back into cycling.
i'm a geek for doing things on the spur of the moment
Nothing wrong with being a wee bit impulsive, to be sure, but let me suggest that if you feel a discard coming on, please check with us first -- we'll try to talk you out of it. ;)
Cheers, J.
;)All's well John cheers buddy
Anto.
-
Well i only just got the mudguards sorted ,man never again there's definitely a knack in getting sks fenders spot on.
but yeah i got there in the end no fun when you have 2 grandkids helping you ::) ::).
so that's it me bike is finished i won't annoy you lot again with Anto's Audax next photos will be me cycling the roads of co louth n meath ;)
so yeah hope yis all enjoyed the build from start to finish i certainly did.
anto.
[Photos from Anto added. -- Dan.]
i'm thinking of selling any ideas guys how much i'd get, still in pristine condition.
anto.
-
yeah i must be touched in the head selling this or thinking of selling it's a wee beauty .
but me back and feet are giving my jip :'(
so looks like i'll be playing golf from now on unless of course a miracle happens .
anto.
-
if i get a good offer i'm selling look at photos it's in pristine condition. ;)
Anto.
-
Just a side question : The bungee cord on your rack, is that a cycling specific one or just an ordinary type?
-
both ;D ;D
-
Classic! :)
-
still no offers missing out lads missing out. ;)
Anto