Cycling UK Forum

As one member mentioned, it's the idiots that spoil it for the rest. Sadly, it's the same in almost very sport in life, litter is one of the biggest problems we face. Often I've found it's those that complain the loudest, leave the most mess, and damage.

Dartmoor needs a campaign asking people to take a small plastic bag, and put some litter in it from their trips maybe.

Once the idiots leave rubbish and trash a nice green place, its get a ban. Then it is almost impossible to get it re-opened again.

Only a few weeks ago, I watched a young chap (16/20) throw a drink can down in a park, I called after him to pick it up only to get the two fingers. I expect I was lucky, not being knifed these days? Its the same with dog mess, where I walk 99% are responsible owners, but you always find some mess around left by lazy owners. Maybe its always been so, and we only notice now our population is much bigger, maybe!

The mountain bike shorts look ideal and just what I'm after, thanks. I'm thinking can you buy underpants with a liner of some kind, the two would be a perfect match really?

Managed to get an almost new Brompton bag off E-Bay guys. Paid just under half price, well worth it for a decent bag with the frame fitted.

I'd like to buy some padded shorts for cycling, and maybe a spot of walking up hills summertime. Most I've seen look a bit like lycra and I'm not comfortable in that. So a close fit is ideal, but not too tight please. Must be good wicking material and dry quickly please?

Good news the lower ring is on now, Halfords fitted it for me, cost a tenner. I'll get to try it soon I hope guys, will feedback as promised.

I'm in genuine aw of all those that get out in the cold and such conditions. Do any of you wear items in case of a crash, like arm or leg protectors?

There is a guy lives near me who brought an electric bike about 5 years ago. He paid under £500 then, he uses it to help walk his Springer spaniel dog. I asked him about it and he said, apart from having to charge the battery, oil the chain, it's been faultless.

I use to think that cheap was always nasty, however I know now it's not always true. While you have to take some degree of care, gear from China just gets better, and many high end items are are built there, but not always specified as so. Recently I used Ali-Express and found it so cheap, and it came in good time.
I brought some waterproof, lined warm trousers direct from China, and they cost me £12 three years ago. They were for fishing, and while not waterproof much now being washed many times, they are as warm as toast, and other zippering has lasted too?

Sometimes you just have to take a punts on cheaper items. I've just ordered those Smart lights mentioned above, front and back for under £20 amazing.

I've just looked at some of the items you guy shave mentioned, the Smart light, the Bolle glasses, the Exped bags. Really amazing for someone like me just starting really, with so much to buy. I do know Decathlon gets a lot of good reviews, and many known cyclist use thier gear.

Thanks to all for the heads up guys.

Richard.

Thirdrank. I spoke to Brompton about this and ordered the parts they suggested, so I'm hopeful its all correct?

Can anyone tell me what cyclist use in winter as leggings for touring (not racing) They not only look warm but also they may dry quick.

Thanks to everyone.

I've ordered a new 40T chainring, and chain. I'll keep the old (well nearly new 50t) for another day if required. I'm told it s simple fix, but I'll ask Halfords if they will fit it for a reasonable charge. Cost was just over £50 for the set, so ok in my book?

Thank you Carltongreen, I think I'l see how I go in the coming weeks and make a decision then. Would the change cost much do you know, or could estimate for me? Cheers Richard.

I had my prostrate removed just 5 years ago, and I suffer quite badly with bladder weakness. However, I've brought a bike this week, and will try to get fit on it in the coming months. I've tried all the exercise as you mentioned but its not helped at all, my cancer was very progressive, so they took a lot away, including all the nerves. We will see how it goes, cycling may help my condition, but I'll wear pads or pants. Its very humiliating to be honest, but at least I get another go, the other option was worse?

Thanks, I've tried the buffalo system, and simply cannot get use to having a wool/cotton type fabric next to my skin. I gather that's how they work in wicking the sweat away. But how often should you wash them, after every trip?

Can anyone suggest what's right about cycle jackets. I have a very light waterproof shell, that would be considered a summer jacket.. But with layering, I think it would be ideal for winer showers, just to keep the rain off a decent down shirt, with merino wool underneath? Or should I go for a more heavy jacket (less packable, still light) but does not need a thick mid layer under neath?

Thanks all. Richard.