Final no matter it was, I discussed a slipping shifter scenario on the Cervino (say that ten instances quick):
One or two of you requested why I don’t need to use Loctite, and the reply is that I’d fairly see if I can clear up the underlying downside earlier than resorting to string lockers, in the identical approach that I at all times attempt to meditate to be able to alleviate stress fairly than simply pouring myself a whiskey:
So yesterday I went again to the shifters once more. Theoretically you’re not alleged to lube this stuff, as a result of friction, however since they’re over 40 years previous I assumed perhaps the nylon inserts had hardened with age and {that a} tiny little bit of grease would possibly assist one way or the other. First I popped them out, then I greased them very calmly, then I wiped all of the grease off once more, figuring no matter microscopic quantity of residue was nonetheless left on there was in all probability greater than sufficient. Subsequent, on a whim, I reversed them, placing the correct one into the left shifter and vice versa. Then I went for a trip:
Whereas it’s early but and I’m not but able to say the issue is solved, it’s undoubtedly enormously improved, as a result of on a 20-ish mile trip I didn’t should cosy up the thumb screws as soon as:
I’m undecided what occurred, however perhaps reversing them round one way or the other refreshed them in the identical approach you may flip round a worn chainring. If this does prove to have mounted it, hopefully I simply purchased them one other 40 years. In any case, the bike feels improbable, and a part of the enjoyable of driving a basic is studying the way it works. (And I’d nonetheless fairly should twiddle a screw each from time to time than cost a battery.
Talking of how basic bikes work, I appreciated this latest video from Park Instrument:
The truth that these bikes are so easy is certainly what makes engaged on them and driving them each gratifying and enlightening…even when that is clearly simply extra Park Instrument propaganda designed to promote freewheel removers and pin spanners:
Shifting on, everybody in New York Metropolis is a motorcycle commuter…till it rains:
Some folks could desire sunny days, however so far as I’m involved ideally suited bike commuting climate is when it’s raining simply sufficient to maintain everybody else off their bikes however not sufficient to truly get you moist–particularly for those who’re driving a motorcycle with fenders and are correctly attired:
And sure, that is pants propaganda–particularly for the Vulpine Mens Rain Trousers, proven right here on a man with modern stubble and a motorcycle with a belt drive:
Right here they’re on a schlubby semi-professional bike blogger with a Rivendell:
They’re mild, they’re comfy, they usually saved me dry within the drizzle. If on high of that they turn into sturdy then I’d say Vulpine’s obtained themselves a winner. I’ll maintain you posted.
There was extra bike visitors within the night, and for all my complaining about motor scooters and the like, the scene on the Brooklyn Bridge on this explicit event was fairly tranquil and orderly:
Even the e-bro on the electrical motorbike was taking it simple:
I typically consider in providing help to individuals who appear to be having mechanical hassle, however on this case I didn’t:
I admit I’m afraid to go anyplace close to a Citi Bike mechanically talking, and even when I might, say, handle restore a flat on one, I don’t like the concept of donating an inside tube to Lyft, Inc. Anyway, it’s not like somebody with a busted Citi Bike is ever that removed from one other station the place they will swap it for a brand new one, and for those who’re in a jam with a Citi Bike it’s in all probability rather a lot simpler to try this then it’s to cope with some fool in fancy rain pants. I’m equally disinclined to cease when driving the Cervino, since all I actually keep on that could be a spare tubular, and except they occur to wish one too I’m in all probability not in any place to assist them.
However for those who’ve obtained a slipping friction shifter I’m your man.
