Search found 17 matches

by ROBRIENMIKE
10 Nov 2023, 7:16pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Cycle computers for Navigation.
Replies: 71
Views: 8362

Re: Cycle computers for Navigation.

by ROBRIENMIKE » 10 Nov 2023, 4:26pm

I thank you all for your time and efforts. I am still working my way through your replies and expanding/ researching on the internet.
We do use Google maps and OS maps on a smart phone and very helpful it has been at times but it does have its limitations. We ( the wife and myself both long retired) like to do 60+ miles per day and tend to, just cast off without any pre planning and go for it. We have got lost in a spectacular way at times even with a map and compass. Lucky time is not our master. The Garmin 840 looks interesting to our needs at present but I will still carry a paper map. Belt and braces is the name of the game. We have of course helped out many other poor lost souls and with a GPS, may be able to expand the service. Same as helping those optimists who carry no tools or spares but a smart phone. We have the kitchen sink in our saddle bags.
Keep it coming, Christmas or Black Friday ain't here yet,
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
10 Nov 2023, 4:26pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Cycle computers for Navigation.
Replies: 71
Views: 8362

Re: Cycle computers for Navigation.

I thank you all for your time and efforts. I am still working my way through your replies and expanding/ researching on the internet.
We do use Google maps and OS maps on a smart phone and very helpful it has been at times but it does have its limitations. We ( the wife and myself both long retired) like to do 60+ miles per day and tend to, just cast off without any pre planning and go for it. We have got lost in a spectacular way at times even with a map and compass. Lucky time is not our master. The Garmin 840 looks interesting to our needs at present but I will still carry a paper map. Belt and braces is the name of the game. We have of course helped out many other poor lost souls and with a GPS, may be able to expand the service. Same as helping those optimists who carry no tools or spares but a smart phone. We have the kitchen sink in our saddle bags.
Keep it coming, Christmas or Black Friday ain't here yet,
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
6 Nov 2023, 3:36pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Cycle computers for Navigation.
Replies: 71
Views: 8362

Cycle computers for Navigation.

I have heard a whisper that Santa is bringing me a GPS computer ( Not giving up on OS maps though) for Christmas. Considering the bewildering array out there, what I need is advice from our members who use and have great experience of them.
I have been doing a fair amount of research on line as to which would suite us ( me and senior management that is) the best, and....my brain hurts.
Our type of cycling is touring in UK, Audax and long days out together. We need something mainly for navigational purposes and that is accurate and easy to use especially when out on the road. We have given up racing and training. so we do not need all the whistles and bells that many offer. I know that these things can be expensive but you only buy the thing once , hopefully.
On line advice/ recommendation so far points toward touch and colour screens and mainly towards the Garmin make. Garmin again, presents a bewildering array of models.
Any thoughts would be greatfully received.
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
31 Jul 2023, 1:54pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Digital computer? Flashing lights?
Replies: 16
Views: 846

Re: Digital computer? Flashing lights?

Dear Nearholmer, that is more or less what Lezyne told me ie the connectivity between main sensor and computer which is being interfered with now I have started using these lights and my Cateye Strada works on analogue signals.
I have many old bike computers ( including the Strada) that still work perfectly well and do all we require of them. They have run with flashing lights ( obviously not as powerful as the LX1000s) for years with no problems. I am being forced into buying new computers because of these emissions. I am informed I am running an analogue computer ( I don't know, it's all news to me) and that I need digital as they are not as prone, but, as I mentioned before there are hundreds of computers out there making all sorts of claims there are comparison and review articles from all the cycling organisations but one can hardly ever find the words, "this is digital" or, "this is analogue." I want it in big letters! I suppose it is all left as an assumption as usual.
To answer Jdsk, the Cateye Digital Padrone is/ has bluetooth connectivity for other sensors eg heart rate monitors. The connectivity between sensor and computer???? These, by the way, are now on sale on Amazon at about half normal retail price. So what's wrong with them?....... Oh ye of little faith!
Some of our experts say that this should never happen if international protocols were being adhered to.
And I just thought I was making our rides a little safer.
BFN
Mike
by ROBRIENMIKE
30 Jul 2023, 3:03pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Digital computer? Flashing lights?
Replies: 16
Views: 846

Re: Digital computer? Flashing lights?

Firstly, let me thank all who replied . The replies were swift, informative, educational and thought provoking.
I guess I belong to the class of the uninformed masses who buy whatever on trust expecting things to work and never thinking or considering problems such as these, why should we. I failed A level Physics in 1959 and like many, struggle to keep apace of the rapid developments in modern technology so who knows what I might fail now.
I bought a pair of these particular lights for our personal road safety because they were/are top of the range appliances. I see they still retail for up to as much as £76 each. Also, Lezyne was set up by a German engineer and entrepreneur so one might be excused for assuming a certain amount of excellence.
If anyone can supply me with the regulation numbers governing these emissions, I will contact Lezyne again and ask whether their products comply or not. I will also ask whether their computers ( which I have been exploring) are compatible with their lights and report back. They did take over two weeks to reply before. If anyone can think of any other queries?
Other points raised by yourselves eg wrapping in foil? The lights are housed in heavy duty "engineered" aluminium cases ( you wouldn't want to drop one on your best corns) enough I would have thought to form an adequate shield.
I did try two other fairly modern computers from well kown manufacturers with the same problems.
Assuming most modern computers are all digital? Not so I am afraid. Cateye retail the Padrone and Padrone Digital which I have asked about. Both do the same things but, one is and one ain't evidently and thus, one is cheaper.
Lastly, as one thought always provokes many more. Could these emissions from the lights damage the soft ware in my computers? And one more thing, we have entered the age of electronic gear changing and Sram have even introduced voice activated changing, which , no doubt, everyone else will follow.......it's those little transmitters and sensors I am thinking of and when me and senior management come cycling over the hill with our flashing Lezynes.
Thanks again,
Mike
by ROBRIENMIKE
28 Jul 2023, 3:56pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Digital computer? Flashing lights?
Replies: 16
Views: 846

Digital computer? Flashing lights?

Earlier this year I bought x2 Lezyne 1000XL front lights for their power mainly to be used in flashing mode and in daytime. This was to give myself and my wife some extra viz in traffic, especially in the "High Street" situation where shoppers are looking for parking places and little else.
The lights worked fine, they still do. However, it was not long before I noticed that I was getting some strange readings on my wireless computer. The wife's computer worked normally and still does. Her one is an old fashioned wired in one on her trusty old Hobbs, I thought the computer was faulty so I changed it round for another and different make with the same result. Then I thought of turning off the light. Normality restored! The devices are mounted about 11cms apart on the handlebars either side of the stem.
A bit upset having spent a lot of money on these lights and not having been provided with any information on the science of how these things worked or any warnings of possible side effects. I contacted Lezyne in California. It took them a while but this was the answer......

Regarding the computer, I imagine you're using an older computer Like a CatEYE Strada that has analog transmission of wireless sensors? This interference is not a defect, just s function of the operation. Analog devices are subject to interference, whereas more modern digital systems, even like the CatEYE Strad Digital, aren't subject to this.

They hit on the exact computer I was using. I feel a bit blinded by science here and would like some help if possible.
All we want from a computer is reliability to record distance, average speed, ODO and perhaps calories used. We have phones and google maps and have always carried an OS map. Anyway, the latter is always an excuse to stop some where nice especially when it means spreading it out on a table outside a nice pub.
So, how do I ( or anyone) tell a digtal computer from an analogue one when it is not written down anywhere in write ups or instruction manuals?
I have Googled up digital computers all over the internet and there are hundreds out there. They all look the same and all promise to be the answer to the cyclists' prayers. None of them tell you, "I'm digital not analogue".
Another thought. Could this effect manifest itself in other manufacturers products, and, could it effect other devices eg a wrist watch? A pacemaker even?
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
21 Aug 2016, 10:06am
Forum: Health and fitness
Topic: Cramp
Replies: 20
Views: 1715

Re: Cramp

Just found this posting. I have suffered from cramps in the calf muscles and sometimes in the toes for a few years now mainly after sitting around indoors.......yes, very painful.
My Doc put it down to some of my medications inc Statins and put me onto Quinine tablets which seem to work....but who knows?? Could have
just disappeared.
Taking Quinine can be very pleasurable........a nice big G &T.
MikeT.
by ROBRIENMIKE
14 Feb 2016, 9:48am
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Mixing tyres
Replies: 7
Views: 897

Re: Mixing tyres

Well folks, if you are still out there, I had to do it or take out a summer machine without mudguards for a start. The 700x23 Marathon is on the front ( yes they have existed since marathons first appeared).
To date, I have completed approx. 170 miles mainly over wet mucky country lanes and last Thursday, with slush and even remnants of ice about. No problems so far. There was the pschycological one of " this bike ain't moving so well, it must be tyre drag," but I soon forgot that. The other problem is, that with mudguards with small clearance, a tyre with a tread like a Marathon picks up mud etc and deposits a certain amount under the guard causing annoying rubbing sounds.
I know plenty of people Audaxing on 700 X 25 Marathons with no grip problems.

Thanks for all the advice,

Mike
by ROBRIENMIKE
7 Feb 2016, 8:10pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Mixing tyres
Replies: 7
Views: 897

Mixing tyres

I need to replace a front Gatorskin ( many battle scars + wear etc) immediately on my winter bike. Yet another puncture yesterday convinced me, ( I do check our tyres after every ride). The only new tyre I have immediately to hand Is a 700 x23 Marathon. The rear tyre is a fairly recent 700x23 Gatorskin in good shape.
Now, I know that it is dangerous to mix up car tyres ( radials & cross ply = deadly, and, the mixing of some radials is not recommended). So, what about on a bicycle??? Any thoughts?
My wife's Audax bike has X32 Marathons fore & aft ( mainly because I maintain it)....I have never educated her about rolling resistance, but, I have often thought of putting on a x27 Gatorskin to ease her journey.
Years ago we put on what we could get, but, then we knew no better being guided by economics rather that H&S.
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
18 Sep 2015, 4:15pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Removal of tar fron tyres
Replies: 7
Views: 1144

Removal of tar fron tyres

Does anyone know of an efficient tar removing product/ chemical that won't dissolve one's tyres?
Councils seem to have had a particularly active summer this year spraying tar and chippings. We all know what that means especially if we have mudguards on the bike i.e. debris rubbing including inside guards, paint on stays & forks, plus, the collection of nasty flints etc. I usually scrape it after a ride but can never completely remove the lot. What do you do?
Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
19 Oct 2012, 11:08pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Waterproof clothing
Replies: 24
Views: 12697

Re: Waterproof clothing

Thanks, I have taken all your comments onboard and I see the jury is still out. My Polaris is of a material that does not need reproofing. It is wind proof and warm to a fault and waterproof up to a point. I was referring to cycling in heavy, continuous rain for five or six hours on end, which is what we seem to have done a lot of this year.
I have recently had conversations with fellow CTC & 40+ members, many of who have jackets costing well over the £100 and their experiences are the same as mine. I have now bought myself a lightweight cape for calm days, a bit extra to carry but now I have the best of both worlds.
Thanks again, Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
9 Oct 2012, 2:23pm
Forum: Does anyone know … ?
Topic: Waterproof clothing
Replies: 24
Views: 12697

Waterproof clothing

Can anybody recommend a waterproof jacket that actually does what it says, if there is such a thing?
On club rides in the torrential downpours we have been experiencing this year, the only riders to stay dry were those using old fashioned capes. ( OK in calm weather but not in strong winds, and we have experienced a lot of those this year also).
I have a 4 yr old, top of the range, Polaris ( taped seems, lined, pit zips, double this & double that, all the whistles & bells etc etc), which has seen little use in real foul weather and has only been used to keep me warm really. It is alleged to be waterproof but in the real drenchings, has let in water through the shoulder seams . Nobody seems to have the answer, do you?..... Stay at home I guess.

Mike.
by ROBRIENMIKE
21 Jun 2011, 9:32pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Crank helicoils
Replies: 4
Views: 697

Re: Crank helicoils

Thanks for the replies so far....keep em coming please.
I had already contacted Highpath and I will probably send the cranks ( NOS Stronglight 49D) there but, because of illness, they have a big back log of work at present.
Rethreading... I was about to attack the cranks having read this was possible and having all the tools, but, I have since been warned by two venerable cycle mechanics, that, on alloy cranks it does work but it is inadvisable to remove pedals more than a couple of times as the threads become very loose with time anyway and too much messing around will result in a helicoil job in the long run . One can use threadlock of course, given the correct grade.
Mike
by ROBRIENMIKE
21 Jun 2011, 3:21pm
Forum: Bikes & Bits – Technical section
Topic: Crank helicoils
Replies: 4
Views: 697

Crank helicoils

Does any one know where I can get a conversion done or a helicoil kit to convert French pedal threads to English in cranks?
OR...
VAR tools website shows a kit but it does not list any dealers over here. Does anyone know where VAR tools are available in UK?
ALSO....
Drop bolts for rear brakes...any info on the availability of these?

Mike
by ROBRIENMIKE
6 Jan 2011, 9:38pm
Forum: Cycling Goods & Services - Your Reviews
Topic: Evans online sales
Replies: 24
Views: 6813

Re: Evans online sales

I'm afraid this, " in stock/not in stock" syndrome and the porkies about delivery dates is quite common with internet buying.
I have had this with DVDs, garden tools and even, now...a bloody tea pot! Ordered in November,we are waiting for New Year absentee potters to turn up for work.
And, after Christmas 2009 and the promises of..."order now to guarentee delivery before 24th December" etc. I no longer buy christmas presents online after mid-October, if at all.

Mike.