Tag Archives: flag

DiNotte 400 lumen lights [4] added to Silk 5

Catrike 700, cycling • Tags: , , , ,

…and here they are: [additional photos in my newly uploaded flickr set]

Front & Rear DiNotte 400 Lumen Lights




I received my lights [shipped Express Mail] today, Friday 01/23, around noon. The shipping took 2 days, although the package arrived at my local post office yesterday. I chose to wait for postal delivery versus my pickup. See, I am patient.

The installation took about 5 hours. I had to determine how I’d mount the lights [I wanted a horizontal presentation versus vertical]. To make the rear work, I had to modify the included mounts to use the top-seat tube. Other photos may show more clearly the results. I used my hack saw to remove the circular mounting arm and then my Dremel and sandpaper to smooth the surface. I’m only using the center mounting hole on the lights. They are designed to use 2 mounting holes. I use both mounting holes in the front mounting.

I ended up mounting the front lights twice. I did not like the initial location I chose as much as the final location. The first location required some minor modification as I integrated the mounting with my fender supports. I moved the lights to my mirrors–no mods needed.The lights are higher and wider there.

I have not ridden with them yet. Today’s temps were nice–in the 60s; but, I was installing lights and still have some finishing [polishing] to do.

Possible issue ~ light reflections off my fairing. The reflections seem greater than with the 2 amber DiNottes I previously used. I’ll have to see if the reflection bothers my riding.

Novel installation: My battery placement [as presented earlier].

BROL thread on this installation.

More…

Setup Update 1

cycling, RANS Stratus XP • Tags: , , , , , ,

The RANS Stratus XP as of 12/09/2006. This picture shows a more laid back fairing position. This is the basic position of the fairing for my return trip from Richmond, Virginia. Since return, I’ve made a few minor tweaks. I ride seeing over the faring. My knees just clear the devices on the handlebar. I still would like to straighten (raise) the handle bar just a bit. The panniers beneath the seat are about 1.5-2″ further forward & the tail-light assembly has been shortened by 2.5 inches. It now sits at the very end of the Angletech Aerotrunk. The B&M DIWA tail-light is mounted differently in the neck rest. As reported earlier, the XM Radio in now on the handlebar, versus the top tube. I also moved the seat a inch or two forward & placed the safety flag on the right side of the bike instead of to the left and within the seat back. I’ll see if this eliminates knee cap pain after riding over 50 miles. I think I have finished moving things around. My check ride confirmed the positioning is OK. Maybe tomorrow I can get in a ride of 30 miles or so.

A collage showing photographs from different angles.

Now Is The Time… 1

cycles, cycling • Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Finally, I am now reporting on the 3 areas below that I said would on 11/16.

  1. Stable:

    Here it is. This is the former utility room that now has 4 bikes and some bike stuff in it. On the stable’s back wall, I have 2 DFs [my MTB at the top and road bike at the bottom]. On the left is my Velokraft VK2 and my RANS Stratus XP is on the right. My biking tools and air compressor are also in the stable. I have a small electric heater and a radio to make life more enjoyable when working in the stable. There is not a lot of room; but, using this space is much better than having 4 bikes in the house. I do have a special space for biking gear where I had the 2 DFs stored, but had the bents elsewhere in the house. This works much better for me.

    Time and temperature are convenient information also available in the stable. The ladders are better stored in the stable [former utility rom] than elsewhere on the property. After all, they were there first–they have rights!

  2. Scale:

    3. Just over 2 months ago VikB, a BROL member, said: Wow! I checked out your blog – you don’t fool around outfitting a bike. How much does the full bike weigh? I responded by saying: Thanks! I am not sure on the weight at the moment. I know the bike is much lighter than on my Florida Tour. I know I can go up most hills without using the granny gear and I can really make the bike scoot. My focus has been on safe night riding and information availability over extended hours. Setting up bikes is a lot of fun for me. Since then, I have been thinking about the best way to weigh this bike. During my recent tour to Richmond, Virginia, and in consultation with my son, I arrived at a platform scale of some type rather than lifting the bike. Rather than buy a scale [that would set the scale to zero after the tare weight is determined], I decided to use a floor scale that I’ve had for several years. I built a platform to accommodate the bike. It is 101.5″x20″ before I added the vinyl covering and rails. I purchased the materials from Lowes. I have to add on additional metal rail section on the right front. I also built a ramp that makes it easier to place the bike on the scale.

    Here, the ramp is removed and you can see how the platform rest on the floor scale.

    The base is made of 2×4′s with 5 cross braces. The tare weight is 60 lbs.

    So, how much does the thing weigh??? The scale shows 130 lbs, less the tare weight of 60 lbs = 70 lbs. A stripped SXP should weigh ~31.5 lbs. I did not weigh this bike before adding components. I’d say the basic bike [w/disc brakes, 3-way chopper bar, pedals, and Specialized tires] is near 35 lbs. As weighed, the bike is near fully loaded, batteries & water, etc. For touring, I have my laptop, clothing, some food, and battery chargers. I won’t guess at the touring weight because the bike is actually a bit heavier than I would have guessed. On the other hand, it is not difficult to make it scoot or climb hills. My touring average speed is slower than I’d like it to be, but in line with my research on average touring speed [10-12 mph avg. moving speed]. This is consistent with my 3 long tours, yet I can see speeds of over 35 mph as I go downhill. While, I’m content with my setup, I still look for ways to save weight. I welcome your comments. Thanks!

  3. Equipment repositioning:

I’ve made a few additional adjustments to the RANS:

  1. I moved my XM radio from the top tube, just in front of the seat to the handlebar. There it is protected from rain and is less likely to come out of its cradle as it did in Petersburg, VA on my return ride to Fayetteville;
  2. I collocated the 2 Garmin Edge 305 GPS. Not that I need two, but as explained earlier in this blog, I can have statute and metric readouts; I can read the screen much better at this distance from my eyes; and I have redundancy. This saved me twice on most recent Fay-Richmond-Fay tour.
  3. For now, I’ve mounted my Bluetooth headset on the right side of the handlebar. I will soon test this location to see how it works while riding. Preliminary test are positive. I may relocate the earpiece. I did this to avoid having the headset on my glasses/helmet when I do not want to use it or have to remove it and then put it back when I want to use it.
  4. I repositioned the light behind the neck rest.
  5. And also repositioned the safety flag.

Although I took the photographs of the scale, platform, and SXP beneath my carport, I have placed the scale & its platform inside the stable. There it is protected from weather, ultraviolet radiation, and the possibility, although remote, of theft. The SXP sleeps on the weighing device. If needed, I can move them outside. BTW, I’ll also use this setup to weigh the VK2. To weigh my road bike and MTB, I use my hanging scale.

Activity Reply

cycles, cycling, MTB • Tags: , , , ,

I have to report on 3 areas:

  1. I now have a stable that houses 2 ‘bents; a DF; & MTB–it is the utility room.
  2. I have built a platform to be placed on my floor scale to allow me to weigh anything that’s too large for the scale itself. The platform is 101.5″x20.” I used 2×4′s for the base–photographs above.
  3. I’ve made a few additional adjustments to the RANS: I moved my XM radio; collocated the 2 Garmin Edge 305 GPS; repositioned the light behind the neck rest; and repositioned the safety flag.

Over the next week or so, I intend to write about the above changes.

When This Bike Is Approched By A Driver, What Should The Driver See? Reply

cycling, RANS Stratus XP • Tags: , , ,

Click to Enlarge

Beneath the orange safety flag is the flashing LED light

This is a side, as opposed to rear shot. The flashing LED is observable from the rear.

Remember the Busch&Müller DIWA (Distance Warning) Plus Light senses when the bike slows down. When riding at night with lights on, the taillight will glow brighter. In the daytime, with the lights off, the taillight will come on just as a car’s brake lights would.

The Mods 12

cycling, RANS Stratus XP • Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I am now within 2 weeks of the Cycle NC Tour. Since my return from the Fayetteville, NC to Key West, FL tour, I have made several modifications to the RANS Stratus.

The modifications begin with the items in this post. My plan is to ride the Stratus on days 5 & 6 of the tour and to benefit from these enhancements. Further, should I do brevets next year or tour for that matter, the Stratus will be ready to go. The two photographs below give an overview of the changes. Gone is the RANS Chopper Bar Fairing Bag–giving better road visibility. I replaced the Pletscher Kickstand with a Greenfield Kickstand from Bentup Cycles of Van Nuys, CA [the dealer from whom I purchased the Stratus]. I’ve elected to use the Angletech Aerotrunk versus the smaller RANS Streamline Tailpack. As I see it, these are not significant modification, just choices of convenience or durability, in the case of the kickstand. I also replaced the RANS Idler with a TerraCycle Idler for the Stratus. The tires are Specialized Fatboys for better puncture protection, with low rolling resistance. I am now using silver SKS Fenders (scroll down the page to see them ~ purchased from Peter White) rather than the Planet Bike Fenders (see other photographs in this blog). The Planet Bike hardware did not hold up. I modified the SKS Fenders by putting the Planet Bike Mud Flaps on them. The mud flaps are attached with silicon. Replaced the original handlebar grips (which continued to slip toward the ends of the bar) with Ergon MP1 Men’s Grips from Performance Bicycle. I had to shorten them to fit my handlebars. They tighten onto the handlebar, and therefore do not slip. I moved the AirZound Air Bottle from the seat-back to the left rear pannier, which also houses my sports drink bottle. The right rear pannier has an Nalgene insulated quick-release bottle from FastBack System. Insulated CamelBak Drink Tubes are within easy reach, attached to the seat-back frame and along side the seat, sport drink–left and water–right.

Modified RANS Stratus XP

The most significant change is the lighting system, which I changed for greater redundancy.

During the Florida tour, I had one night that I rode with only the LightSpin Dynamo. If it had failed, I would have been in the dark. I had used up the NiteRider Flight Li-Ion battery earlier in the day. The LightSpin wheel cover also wore out on the 1,062 mile trip. I now have spare wheel covers.

I have a 3-tier, plus [side lights using EL-wire, hand-cranked light & aerotrunk light] system.

  1. Tier One: The new primary system is a Schmidt SON28S Disc 36-Hole Hub powered DIWA Lighting System (scroll down) from Peter White Cycles [both head (Lumotec Oval DIWA Plus) & tail (Dtoplight) lights are stand]. The new Distance Warning, or DIWA System from Busch&Müller senses when the bike slows down. When riding at night with your lights on, the taillight will glow brighter. In the daytime, with the lights off, the taillight will come on just as a car’s brake lights would. Mr. White built the two Velocity Wheels you see photographed above.
  2. Tier Two: NiteRider Flight with dual 16-led taillights [not a current NiteRider product, 04/09] that operate on a dedicated Li-Ion battery. For some reason, with the taillights wired in parallel, they no longer flash. I do not see this as a problem because the North Carolina Bicycle Club rules state: at a minimum, a steady burning front and rear lights and reflective gear are required for the 300k through the 600k brevet. Vista tail lights must be steady burning and a spare bulb and batteries are required for all lights. When I want or need extreme brightness, I can turn on the HID, in addition to the SON DIWA Lighting System. For more light, I can also turn on the LightSpin System described above. I’ll certainly be able to see all before me–and be seen. One note: My NiteRider Flight light had to be returned to NiteRider for repair. Apparently, water got into the case. There was no charge for the repair.
  3. Tier Three:
    A LightSpin Dynamo powers twin headlights & a stand taillight [emergency backup system] I have toggle switches for both lights to control dynamo load. If I ever want more lighting, then this system can also be used.

Why all the lights and batteries–for my safety as I stated above. On a recent tour [with a 2-tier system], I found myself down to the LightSpin. If something had happened to it, I’d been in total darkness. I’m setting the bike to travel with 12+ hours of darkness. The NiteRider Taillight remained lit for over 7 days on their Li-Ion Battery. The NiteRider site has the following description for the Flight System: Want HID power without the weight of Nickel Metal Hydride batteries? Then look no further than the NiteRider Flight system. Using Lithium Ion powered cells, the Flight lighting system offers the greatest power to weight ratio of any lighting system available, with burn times ranging from 2:15 up to 3:30. Want to extend burn times? Switch over to the power saving LEDs. [They show 100 hrs. in LED mode.] Never before has so much power come in so small of a package. Mounting options are virtually limitless with a battery pack no larger than a cell phone and weighing only 227g/8oz.

Control Panel/Dashboard
Other CP/DB Shots

You may wonder why there are two Garmin Edge 305s. Here’s why–I have a Cateye Wireless (purchased for my Velokraft VK2) that I had working on the Stratus. I had planned to use it to report kilometers to aid in brevets. For some reason, it stopped working properly as a wireless device. I replaced the batteries; but, I still had the problem. I would like the Edge to be able to report statute and metric measurement simultaneously (statute on one the bike pages/screens and metric on the other, or share fields on the same screen. It will only give one or the other, not a combination of the two. I spoke with Garmin technical support on this and they think the concept is worth consideration. Having this capability is a software as opposed to a hardware solution. In the meantime, I had the option of buying a wired bicycle computer or using my second Edge (with no additional cost) thus the two 305s. Both record my heart rate and cadence. One reports statute, and the other metric measurements. Another benefit of the Garmin Edge is that its backlight can remain on for lowlight/night visibility. Had I used the Cateye, I would not have been able to read its display without a light shinning on the display. The silver device on the right is a digital voice recorder. I’ve used it on several bikes, as well as my Florida tour. It allows me to take verbal notes as I ride. You also see a RAM mount for a camera. I find it easier to leave it in place than to position it each time I’m ready to use the camera. I may remove it at some point.

Back to lighting. In addition, I will use my EL Wire [powered by a Socket Mobile Power Pack (link below)] for “running lights” in towns [toggle controlled] to ensure I’m seen from the side.

Note the small blue wire the runs along the left and
right side of the bottom tube. It is the EL Wire.


I also have a flashing light on the flag.

In addition to the lights described above, the front of the bike has four reflectors and the rear two.

The DIWA light, which has one of the two rear reflectors,
is shown in its mounting position behind my neck rest.

One final [I hope] light–The Safe Turn Bicycle Indicator. This is a amber flasher that uses a tilt switch to more clearly show the hand position to indicate turns and slowing signals. In this case, where I can, this will supplement the brake light.

I have a small Radio Shack LED Task Light [no longer available, 04/09] to more easily see into the Aerotrunk and panniers at night.

I will use a hand-cranked flashlight [to be purchased] for night-time repair. So far, I’ve been fortunate in that breakdowns [flats] have occurred in daylight.

Of course, TerraCycle has the Firefire Light for its Tailsok</A>. I do not plan to add a tailsock now–maybe at some point in the future. I am considering a Mueller Fairing for cold-weather riding.

Now for the nice to have–or is it a safety item–Tao XM2Go Satellite Radio.

Again, during the Florida tour, I found myself on the road up to 15-hours and no awareness of world events. XM takes care of that. We were almost ambushed by Tropical Storm Alberto. XM to the rescue. In my setup, I have a third Socket Mobile Power Pack to power the radio. The XM2Go Radio plays about 5 hours on its Li-Ion battery. I have not yet timed the radio with the Socket. I expect over 20 hours of play time. I’ll advise later. The radio is played through Radio Shack speakers [unnecessary items removed], also powered by a Socket Li-Ion battery. Since the radio is not water resistant, I have to get a waterproof bag [probably Aquapaq] for it.

I‘m sure you noticed a telephone, actually a Motorol V555. It is my bluetooth fair weather friend. On the Florida tour, its predecessor, a V551, failed due to rain. I plan to replace it with a

Motorola i580 from Nextel. You will note it is bluetooth enabled and rain-resistant certified to Military Standard 810 F for blowing rain, humidity, and salt fog. It is designed to withstand exposure to rain, sleet, and snow. Rubber encasing, interior linings and seals protect the phone.
I’m currently using a Cardo Scala Rider Bluetooth Headset placed on the straps of my bicycle helmet, which replaced the bluetooth headset I lost during a rain storm in Palm Beach, FL. In preliminary testing, the sound quality and volume are excellent. My son reports my volume level is low and I’m difficult to hear. There is, however, no wind noise. This is an improvement over what I used on the Florida tour.

Another reason for this phone is the ability for me to be located while cycling. Nextel offers a Mobile Locator Service which facilitates this with any of its GPS enabled telephones. During the Florida tour, my able assistant, Michael–my son, was always there to support. Support from miles away is very helpful and deeply appreciated. Sometimes, we spent about 10 minutes pinpointing my location. With this setup, he’ll know where I am in an instant. The safety factors are obvious. I plan to place the phone at the same location as my V555.

Weight distribution: As loaded for the Florida tour, I thought that most of the bike’s weight was on the rear wheel. Now, with 2 NiteRider and 2 Socket batteries, the EL wire inverter & the bags to hold these items, plus the SON hub, there is more weight toward the front of the bike. The Socket battery for the XM2Go Radio is beneath the seat.

Additional Cycle Photographs

A Day to Relax and Reflect… 6

cycling, RANS Stratus XP • Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
As the sun sinks slowly into the west
At the Request of Mr. David Bascombe and for us all
Entertainers & The Crowd
Mallory Square Sunset Celebrations Day02

This is a collage of the Flickr images above.
At Smathers Beach, Along South Roosevelt Blvd.

My morning begins with thanks and praise to be here. It was a treacherous journey. Here are pictures of a few of the sights as I walked around early this morning. Enjoy!

A morning in Key West, Florida
As with all the photographs, click to enlarge–you should then have a enlarge botton in your browser that will enlarge again.

To come later today, I hope, will be a Google Earth tour of our journey from start-to-finish with pictures along the route. Stay tuned…

REFLECTIONS

I am glad I decided to do this tour. I thought last year as I listened to Mark discuss his tour from Fayetteville to Jupiter, Florida that I’d want to do that. This year he said he would go from Fayetteville to Key West, Florida. I was interested. Since four C4 members [Mark, Tom, Chris and I] did the post-Thanksgiving tour to Oak Island, North Carolina last year, I felt we [Mark and I] would enjoy the ride together—more on this later.

Anyway, given that I rode my Trek Project One to Oak Island, with a wider seat containing a gel-pad, I felt it was not the best “tool” for a tour to Florida. I made the decision I would go on this tour and thereby decided to purchase the best tool for me for the tour—The RANS Stratus XP. You are not supposed to buy a recumbent unless you have test ridden it. This is my second recumbent purchase without first test riding. There’s no recumbent dealer in Fayetteville or surrounding city. Some perspective buyers fly to a location where they can ride. That was not an option for me. I bought both of my recumbents from Dana Lieberman, owner, Bent Up Cycles in Van Nuys, California. Dana and I discussed in detail what I wanted to do and the bike that would likely be the best bike for me. I do not regret the decision on either bike. For me it is a matter of the right tool for the job. I love having the flexibility of choosing.

Back to touring: After getting the RANS, I knew I needed to test ride for some distance—why not Richmond, Virginia. My son and family live there and it is only about 200 miles—a double century (321.9 kms) [actually 218 miles (350.8 kms)and 20 hours later]. So what if I just bought the bike. I need “bent” legs [they are different—quads, gluts, and some other muscles that you do not know you have]. Bent riding is supposed to be good cross-training for DF [diamond frame] riding. So I head out early on Saturday morning [below in the blog, you can read about it] and 3 days later I’m back in Fayetteville. WOW!

I set goals. I know they are achievable, particularly when one sets tasks that support goal accomplishment. Some of you may know I am an Army Ranger. I know from that experience, I can do anything. The question becomes how. I strongly believe you JUST DO IT! Along the way, friends and their support make the tasks at hand easier. That was certainly the case on this ride.

That being said, what did I experience?

Bike – no mechanical problems [I love my RANS Stratus] I resolved a seat issue based on the Richmond, VA ride. I had three flats [I took 4 tubes]. I did not have to patch a tube. I used CO2 cartages. They were fine. I wore out a tire and replaced both. An experienced tourer, for the distance, would have carried a spare tire. I took one on the Oak Island tour. I thought I’d get more that 1,000 miles [1,609.3 kms] on the tire that came with the bike. I’ll tell you, coming off of some of these bridges at 35+ mph [56.3 kms]; you do not want a blowout. Going that speed is a real rush. The pain to get to the top is worth it. I’m lying. My generator cap that makes contact with the wheel needed to be replaced. I should have brought the spare—next time.

Safety: Lighting was adequate. Plan to ride in the dark, although you do not want to. I have a 2-system backup. I will install 3-system lighting. What do you do when you are on backup and it goes out 30 miles [48.3 kms]from your destination? That did not happen, but it could. Horn OK. Safety flags—I strongly recommend for all tours. Braking—more than adequate. I use disc brakes. We had several hours in down-pouring rain. Fayetteville, remember Alberto.

Cautions: If you are not comfortable or are easily intimidated by traffic, do not tour alone. Numbers help here. You will get blown at, yelled at; drivers will seem to force you off the road. I had a driver ask me if I knew I was in Georgia, meaning drivers don’t care about a cyclist right to the road. The most pleasant state to ride in happened to be North Carolina. I might say because of the roads there versus US17 or US 1, but I rode US 301 from Fay. To Richmond and return. In some instances, there will be no shoulder to ride on. In others you will have plenty, and in some states—GA & FL there will be some bike paths. There is one biker’s rule that works as best I know—TAKE THE LANE. If a driver behind you just blares his/her horn, wanting you to get off the road, take the lane and go slower. It forces them to use the passing lane to go around you. Mark uses this technique. I know it works. It would be nice if there were separate paths for cyclist away from cars and trucks—not the case for touring.

Fitness: If your tour includes bridges, you MUST have bridge-legs. Charleston, South Carolina Savannah and Brunswick, Georgia have bridges. Then there’s the multiple crossing on intercostals waterway bridges. There’re railroad bridges, there are river bridges. There are bumps in the road. When you legs have been working, they do not want another grade. I have strong climbing legs. I got to the point that I did not want to see another bridge; but, with adrenalin flowing, I attacked those *#%@ at a fast rpm and flew down the other side. Look at the GPS data. Condition yourself for the ride you are about to take. As a matter of practice, it is a good idea to included lots of hills in your riding regimen. Our cycling club, C4, gives you this opportunity on its Tuesday & Thursday ride on Ft. Bragg—attack those hills. Bents, by the way, are not known for their hill climbing ability. RPM is the way to get a bent up a hill fast. The Four Oaks area of NC along Highway 301 has some practice hills for you.

Hydration: I did not bonk or experience cramping. Ensure you remain hydrated. I may have over consumed—NOT. You can never drink too many fluids. Find the sports drink that works for you and use it. I drank lots of chocolate milk during the ride. I noted on my Bent Riders’ Forum, chocolate milk is an excellent recovery drink. I just did not wait until the end of the ride to drink it. I think it made a difference for me. You’ve got to ride long distance to know what works best for you. The tour is not the best place to learn what’s best for you.

Food: Your cells need to be feed. Read all you can on ultra cycling and then find what works for you. I generally eat something hourly. As this ride went on, I stretched the frequency that I ate something more and more as the ride went on. It seemed if I ate a meal, I was sleepy thereafter—the blood is at the stomach to facilitate the digestion of what you ate. You should eat breakfast early enough before your ride starts for the cells to receive the nutrients from what you ate.

Sleep: I did not get enough. I think you should get at least 6-8 hours sleep. Many nights, I did not go to sleep until after 2:00 a.m. [blog and all] and was awaked [by something—I’m staying positive here] at 5:30 or so. During the day’s ride at some point I drifted on the bike—not safe. I made more frequent stops trying to wake myself up. One half of the ride or the other seemed bad. Most times it was the second 50 miles [80.5 kms]. I remember one day, it took until 2:30 p.m. or so just to get to 50 miles [80.5 kms]. You just know you will complete the day’s task and hopefully exceed it. Life is short. Life is fun. Live it to the fullest.

Stretching: Dr. Tom tells me. I do as much as I can. I did have knee discomfort—so did Mark. I stretched my quads at all stops and did other general stretching. This is an important aspect of all the things we do. Maybe one day I can do Pilates or yoga. Tom, in the meantime, I stretch sir! I took along Naproxen Sodium and Ben Gay for the knees. They seemed to work for me.

Unexpected occurrences: On day 2 my riding glasses broke. I had backup glasses. They just did not look as cool; my kickstand broke in Charleston, South Carolina; I also lost my safety flag—no backup; and, my iPod stopped working properly–lots of skipping–for the remainder of the trip I listened to the noise of the wind. In Palm Beach, Florida, I lost my Bluetooth headset and my telephone stopped transmitting as a result of the many rains we had that day.

Wednesday afternoon on after checking into Holiday Inn at Key Largo, I rode several miles to complete the century, when I returned, I had my helmet and gloves. I placed the bike in the manager’s office, as I have been allowed to do. If the room is not on the ground floor, the bike does not make it to the room. Anyway, time to go and I cannot locate my helmet. I do not recall taking it to the room. I checked again, and it is not there. Hopefully on return to pick up my bags, I’ll have helmet and gloves. I do not ride without either of them. Yesterday I did. I fit right in. I did not see any other cyclist with helmet or gloves. This place is laid back.

Yesterday, on arrival at Key West, I bought a Nokia Tracfone to allow me to talk to individuals who dial my cell phone.

Essential for me: GPS—Garmin Edge 305; Digital Camera, Digital voice recorder; AirZound horn; & laptop computer.

Expectations: I look to have fun at most things I do. I expected this ride to fit in that category. In many ways it was one of the greater thrills of my life. I’d do it again in terms of setting goals that not too many of my peers would set for themselves and then accomplishing those goals.

My disappointment was the ridding “together” with my tour partner—Mark. I try to stay positive in my outlook and actions in life. To be honest with myself I have to express this. Mark knows I have concerns and disappointment. From my perspective, we had a contract as to ride speed, lodging, return, etc. On day one, on occasion, Mark and Chris would ride ahead and then wait.

Riding a bent is different than a road bike. I had suggested early on that Mark and I test ride together so that we know what to expect from each other and the bikes. That did not happen. I said to Mark that I felt I was holding him back, so he would just ride ahead. I will not be a burden on anyone. I will always finish and many times faster that one may think. I even offered that I should depart an hour or so before Mark so he could catch up pass and be happy. I was not getting sufficient rest as it was. Doing so would have made matters worst.

I heard him mention his ride rate to Chris on the phone. The rate he achieved were not consistent with the 12-13 mph [19.3-20.9 kms]stated when I considered this ride. As I see it, if you partner together and you are on a “tour.” You ride together.

It seemed there was to race to nowhere. I, seemed to be enriching my day with experinces along the way and still make reasonable time. I wondered why Mark would leave minutes before I did; or, if I rode into an area where he has stopped, he would ride off. He did not do this on day one. When asked, Mark said he was minimizing the amount on time on his Brooks Saddle because of discomfort riding for extended periods of time.

The upside to this is he arrived at the destination [which was sometimes beyond what I expected for that day]. Found lodging and checked in. I only had to get there. A key was waiting at the desk. Mark was kind enough to pay for lodging through our arrival in Key West and allow me to reimburse him with one check on our return to Fayetteville. I trust there are lessons to be learned here.

Depending on personal and team goals, you really need to know what to expect during the ride execution. I leave this ride happy that I met my personal goals, but saddened that it was not quite the team experience I expected—given our post Thanksgiving tour.

The important thing is we both arrive safely in Key West, Florida and now have to journey back to Fayetteville. Sometimes in life we are asked to do what may seem impossible. Sometimes we have to find a way in spite of what may seem to be an obstacle.

We both met some interesting people along the route, the trio from New York, people who would just come up and say, “you are doing WHAT“? On our first day of flats, 2 each, Mark help repair the flats of two other individuals.

I recommend a road tour for all cyclists. I want to organize and direct a tour for my cycling club. Given my 435 miler [700.1 kms] to Richmond, Virginia and now this 1,054 mile [1,696.2 kms] tour, I’d love to experience the joy that a group of riders with a common purpose share in the enrichment that cycling brings. Getting there is but one component of the event. What you do along the way I think is where the fun is to be had.

I hope to be with you along the road somewhere sometime.

Thanks for indulging in my reflections.

–jim artis

Comments & Impressions ~ FRF Tour 1

cycling, MTB, RANS Stratus XP • Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Training tour targets met & goals accomplished.

I‘ll tell you that experiencing these rides was invigorating. I think all serious cyclists should complete a double century in their life. I did mind at age 60. I was not waiting for anything in particular. Since I have the 1,000+ mile (1,609.3 kms) tour in June, I used this opportunity to train; visit my family in Richmond; check out my LWB recumbent the over extended miles; and evaluate the preparedness of this engine as well as increasing its fitness. I feel GREAT today. I do not recall sleeping as complete as I did last night in a long time. I’m really looking forward to our June tour.

The Bike: The RANS Stratus XP is the perfect tour bike for me. I do not see how there could be a better selection. It rides very well. I was able to give it sufficient power to climb hills. Mechanically, the bike is up to the task. I do have a concern. I found the RANS seat was not comfortable for my bottom with the many riding hours [20, 11, & 10 for the 3 days]. I think the foam pad does not eliminate the possibility of the pan, particularly from the back of the pan. On return, I spoke with Ronnie at RANS to see if there is an option that offers greater comfort. He says no. I will confer with Dana of Bent Up Cycles today. During my up to 50 mile (80.5 kms) rides, the seat seemed OK. Ronnie said seat discomfort has not been reported as a problem. It may be my bottom [a normal not that wide or big on a 168 lb. (76.2 kg.) man] and its interaction with the seat on extended rides. I really want to try something different before my 1,000+ mile (1,609 kms) tour. One other minor problem: The nylon idler/chain keeper broke in Petersburg, VA. My son fashioned a replacement keeper [reaming out a piece of nylon coat hanger] that got me back to Fayetteville and I think will take me for many more miles. Thanks Michael!

The Equipment:

  • Cargo Carriers: The Rans Panniers and the Streamline TailPack worked very well. The Chopper Bar Fairing Bag is the BOMB. It is very convenient.

  • Neck Rest: This is a welcomed addition to the bike and helpedwith my comfort during the long riding hours. I’m still tuning it in. I do have some tenderness at the base of my neck. I think it is from the rest. I do not know if it is the “support,” the fabric, or the position, relative to my riding positions.

  • Shoes: I rode with Lake Sandals. I think they were more comfortable than my Sidi MTB shoes would have been. I’m using SPD cleats. The bottom [next to the foot] of the Lakes was many times uncomfortable, kind of hot. I’ve read about this. I have to reread. I noted last evening that I have a small blister on the inside of my right great toe. I must have gotten it yesterday.

Safety:

  • Lighting: I rode I rode over 10 hours in the dark. The
    NiteRider Flight, with 16-LED tail light and the LightSpin dynamo, with 2 headlights and the Stand taillight are the perfect system for me. I used their dynamo powered lighting system along with the NiteRider as opposed to just emergency lighting, although it still serves that purpose. Caution: I began the tour with the NiteRider Flight on low-beam and used most of its battery by day-break. Given that I had 3 hours of night riding later in the day, I had no battery for the headlight. The dynamo powered lights did their job, except when I stopped, no headlight. I also used a CatEye white flasher at the top of my safety flag.

  • Safety Flag: I think it is essential for travel on public roads. Fortunately, I did not have any near-misses. A few jerks passed by too closely. Remember–put a light of some type at the top of the pole.

  • Horn: I use the AirZound. It is a GREAT horn, particularly at its low cost. I did not have to use it in traffic situations. I did use to when dogs started a pursuit. They all stopped. I had a count of AirZound 10, dogs 0, but; lost count after 20 or more encounters. I ran out of air [I need a larger reservoir--I replenished in Richmond] or I needed to use shorter blast. Had I not blown the horn, I do not know what the dogs would have done. I do not need to know that.
  • Handling: I rode over 3 hours in the rain–no unusual problems. Control and braking [disc] was adequate.

The people: Overall, my impression are positive, more so for my experiences in North Carolina versus Virginia. It seems some have never seen a recumbent. Many were complimentary on the RANS. As I rode through a small NC town on Sunday night, I even had someone yell obscenities from a porch. Some seemed to display the attitude that a bike did not belong on the highway. I found cars that passed me at night gave a total lane berth, whereas during daylight, some just moved over a few feet. My NC night travel was on the highway. My VA night travel was in north Petersburg on US 301 and US 1 and then VA 10. The US 301 and US 1 route was hilly, not what you want for a LWB recumbent. Over 50 years of cycling, this was my worst experience to date. Overall, I might conclude it is safer to ride a bike at night [with proper lighting of course] than during daylight. I’ll give the people an 80% positive vote.

The Engine: Although I’m working with a 60-year old body, I feel fit and up to the task. I think I have my “bent” legs already. Some say it takes time [6 months or so]. I think miles. I have near 600 miles (965.6 kms) in my short period of ownership. I had the pleasure [or displeasures] of riding many hills. I can spin rapidly and motor up the hill as fast as I want. Or, I can spin more slowly and just pedal, without mashing, to the top. I tend to not use the granny gear because of the LWB instability, particularly in traffic [and at night], add horn blowing and yelling passengers to that–well you get the idea. As I have read on BROL, my heart rate was about 20 bpm lower on this recumbent that on my DF. I’ll have to research more to determine why. My average speed on the bent was slower than my DF. I’m not sure I understand why. I know when touring, you should go more slowly because of the distance you will be riding. I also read on BROL to expect a 10-12 mph (16.1 – 19.3 kph) touring average for certain type of tours. I find that to be an accurate prediction.

Nutrition & Hydration: From my perspective, I apparently did it right. That is, my weight on return was within a mound of my departure weight. I did not bonk; although this was my first double century and I rode over 10 hours each day. I did nothing scientific in determining what to eat. I had bananas, raisins, chocolates, Gu, fig bars, pistachios, peanut butter, etc. I used Gator Aid as my sports drink because of its availability at gas stations. The foods are items that have worked for me in the past. For recovery, I also drank lots on no-fat chocolate milk last night.

Anomaly??? At the end of the day, after finally arriving at my Son’s home and conversing with he and his wife for a bit and then going into the garage, where the bike was parked, to get a few items, I suddenly felt dizzy, somewhat nauseas, and warm at the face. I’ve never experienced this before. It took an hour or so for the symptoms to go away. I drank more water and ate a bit. I’m not sure what that was about. I seem to have survived for 2 more days of riding and I think I’m OK now. We will see…

Plan for the FL Tour: Relax and enjoy the ride with the confidence [plus, I'm to have the added benefit of the Angletech Aerotrunk (tailbox)] that I can go at least 218 miles (350.8 kms) in a day and that I have strung together 3 days on centuries or more. I did 5 centuries last year [my first year of doing centuries]. I expect to more than triple that this year. Life is short. Enjoy it as much as possible.