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Local Clubs => Desmotropic => Topic started by: DRKWNG on November 03, 2008, 08:34:18 PM

Title: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 03, 2008, 08:34:18 PM
So I thought I would put this thread in here with the fact that at least three of us are into pedal bikes as well.

We still on for this coming Saturday Tristan?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on November 04, 2008, 07:06:15 PM
Well, this guy is down, but the wife has marathon training in the morning.  I done forgot.

[edit]
Jen says she's in, but wants to remind that she's sloooooooooooow.  I know you say Alex is slow, but she wants to stress the word.  slow.  As long as Alex won't be toooo bored with it, then cool.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 05, 2008, 06:33:05 AM
Shouldn't be a problem.  Now I just need to see how much of my cycling gear still fits. 
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 07, 2008, 03:18:53 PM
I think I am going to have to bail out of tomorrow's bike ride Tristan.  I have to work Sunday evening and need to start getting things packed up.  Will call and update later this evening.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on November 07, 2008, 07:40:03 PM
okeedoke.  let me know wassup.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on November 12, 2008, 10:21:55 PM
CRASHED AGAIN!!  [bang] :P --- This time on the Seven. Boss-ski and I were shooting down Kahala Ave towards the golf course and almost to the end we hit a section where the city is tearing up the road for re-paving. OK we're doing just under 20 mph and my front tire blows. Apparently the sidewall hit a sharp section of raised roadway and boom. Instead of having a tire I was then riding on a rubber band in front. Well quess what, that in itself was bad enough but not too bad, but the city had decided to OIL the road to keep the dust down. It was like sliding on ice, that is until the rest of me started to hit the road. It was another hit road and off into the grass deal. The bike is OK except for the tire and I'm a bit rashed up on my right side. Not as bad as the last crash though. Shit.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on November 12, 2008, 10:39:33 PM
Wow, that is fan-tastic.  That's even worse than my day.  Glad you're mostly ok though.

Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 12, 2008, 11:23:13 PM
Hmmmm... So tell me Rick, that makes two cycling wrecks in a somewhat short amount of time?  Looks like you need to tell Gloria that her idea of you spending more time riding bicycles is bad for your health and that you need to focus more on the moto's.  ;)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on November 13, 2008, 02:55:36 PM
Quote from: DRKWNG on November 12, 2008, 11:23:13 PM
Hmmmm... So tell me Rick, that makes two cycling wrecks in a somewhat short amount of time?  Looks like you need to tell Gloria that her idea of you spending more time riding bicycles is bad for your health and that you need to focus more on the moto's.  ;)

She actually brought that up herself last night.  [laugh]  But hey, sometimes shit does happen. I hate that cliche' but sometimes it's true. I'll be putting on a new tire today and we should be riding again tonight. Maybe a little slower? Dunno.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 22, 2008, 04:48:22 PM
Does anyone need, or know of someone who might need, a set of road shoes in size 43?  I have a pair of Pearl Izumi road shoes that have been worn once and then put up; heel cups don't really mesh with my feet. 
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on November 22, 2008, 05:40:01 PM
Quote from: DRKWNG on November 22, 2008, 04:48:22 PM
Does anyone need, or know of someone who might need, a set of road shoes in size 43?  I have a pair of Pearl Izumi road shoes that have been worn once and then put up; heel cups don't really mesh with my feet. 

Unless 43 means 46, probably not.  Too bad, cause I could sure use some road shoes.

I'll check around a little for you, though.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on November 22, 2008, 05:50:28 PM
No, PI's sizing is a little odd.  I usually wear 45s in both Specialized and Diadora shoes, 43 in Northwave and PI and a 44 in Sidi.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on September 26, 2009, 12:07:50 AM
So, anyone (coughrickcough) thinking of taking their road bikes out saturday?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on September 26, 2009, 08:33:02 AM
coughtristanisbuthesnotrickcough
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on September 26, 2009, 09:33:40 AM
What?  You're no trick?  ;)

What time do you think you would want to go?  Where to?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on September 26, 2009, 10:20:12 AM
I might take the Peg out later today. Maybe. Depends on how the day goes. Supposed to work on Wally's bike today. Plus I'm all rashed up again after a weird trip and fall the other night in the rain. There's a dog involved.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on September 26, 2009, 11:43:26 AM
Ugh. I did 2.5 miles of 100 meter sprints with an overweight coworker.  Now I are tired and need coffee.   

The wiff is going down toward Pearl Hahbah this afternoon.  I could maybe get my slightly recovered legs and a bike down thattaway at thattatime.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on September 26, 2009, 12:26:57 PM
No worries.  We can put it off until next week if you want.  That way I can do make the beast with two backs all other than washing the Duc and the car...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on September 30, 2009, 08:45:40 AM
Should we get the pedal bikes out this Saturday?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on September 30, 2009, 09:25:43 PM
I'm game.  I want to go down to Cycle City some time and take that SM for a spin though.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 01, 2009, 08:26:15 AM
Quote from: DRKWNG on September 30, 2009, 09:25:43 PM
I'm game.  I want to go down to Cycle City some time and take that SM for a spin though.

Go test ride in the morning and we'll head out on the bikes in the afternoon, or so. Got any routes you favor?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 01, 2009, 08:32:46 AM
Nothing too hilly.   ;D
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 02, 2009, 06:36:58 AM
OK. Anything more specific? What kind of distance are you talking about? Honolulu your area? Honolulu east side? Kailua Waimanalo Kaneohe?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 02, 2009, 08:27:38 AM
Hell, I don't really care.  Not really much in the way of scenery to look at while riding in my area, so either H/east or over on your side I guess.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 02, 2009, 08:38:40 AM
OK. On the Windward side we might have a few small hills.  East Honolulu we'll have wind. Up to you.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 02, 2009, 07:03:19 PM
Small hills aren't that big of a deal.  Just don't want you pulling a Voytek on me.  ;)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 02, 2009, 07:21:08 PM
Does that mean you're going to schlep your bike on the top of your car over the hill tomorrow?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 02, 2009, 08:38:31 PM
Can.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 03, 2009, 12:00:19 PM
might have to bail on the cycling today.  Got a few more things dropped into my lap that I need to take care of.  I'll call you in a bit and let you know how it looks.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 03, 2009, 01:30:18 PM
I'm just hanging out around the house for a while so let me know.  Did you go get a ride on the 950SM?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on October 03, 2009, 01:32:11 PM
Not yet, but am about to head down at give it a go.  Got stuck doing domestic stuff for most of the morning.  Just washed the Daytona as well, as two people want to come look at it today.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on October 03, 2009, 02:07:37 PM
Do what you gotta do. No worries there. I'm thinking about heading out around 3 or so. I'll check back with you or you might want to give a call. It's all good.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on November 26, 2009, 10:48:23 AM
From the comic strip Frazz:

Coach Hacker to Frazz and Clutch ---  "Looks like a beautiful day for a ride. Where are you two going?"

Frazz "We're going over to Ashville"

Coach Hacker (incredulous) "Ashville? That's 80 miles away! What's there?"

Frazz & Clutch    "The turnaround"

Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Speed 3 Pilot on November 26, 2009, 11:57:05 AM
 [laugh] [laugh]
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on November 27, 2009, 11:50:57 AM
Nice.  Not that I've had a ride like that in, umm, i'd say, ever.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on December 22, 2009, 03:46:04 PM
Maybe I should just buy a single speed and ride it to work...

http://honolulu.craigslist.org/oah/bik/1521521764.html (http://honolulu.craigslist.org/oah/bik/1521521764.html)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 10, 2010, 05:11:48 PM
So completely switching gears...So I have been in a "get in shape" mood for the last few months and was thinking of doing the HQBN Sprint Triathlon (500-meter swim, 11-mile bike race, and a 3.5-mile run) in May and was wondering if this is a good bike or if there's a better one to be had for the same/less money...

http://honolulu.craigslist.org/oah/bik/1595033326.html (http://honolulu.craigslist.org/oah/bik/1595033326.html)

I actually don't know much about bikes so any info will be appreciated!
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on February 10, 2010, 06:00:27 PM
That is a whole lot of freakin' good bike for even more than they are asking. At that price it's great as long as you are serious. That is not a casual rider and is a very dedicated racing bike. Strange to ride if you are not used to riding much and still strange coming off a road racing bike. They won't last long at that price. Also, there are only 2 sizes being offered so you have to fit properly or forget it, seriously.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 10, 2010, 08:09:47 PM
Hmmm...my plan was to use it for my new "triathlon" hobby but I was also planning on using it as a commuter...would it not work as such?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on February 10, 2010, 08:18:19 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on February 10, 2010, 08:09:47 PM
Hmmm...my plan was to use it for my new "triathlon" hobby but I was also planning on using it as a commuter...would it not work as such?

You could but I don't think you'd like it. Go down and try one on. Those bikes are usually a fair bit above being hobby bikes.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on February 10, 2010, 08:24:12 PM
Agreed... It' s a fine triathlon bike, but if you haven't been riding, you'll probably hate it.  Still, worth a shot.

Out of curiosity, how tall are you?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on February 10, 2010, 08:37:53 PM
I'll be the third to agree with Rick and Tristan. Tri bikes are a very dedicated animal and not really the ideal commuter, much less a starter bike.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 10, 2010, 09:22:55 PM
Quote from: elTristo on February 10, 2010, 08:24:12 PM
Out of curiosity, how tall are you?
I'm 5'10"...

Quote from: DRKWNG on February 10, 2010, 08:37:53 PM
Tri bikes are a very dedicated animal and not really the ideal commuter, much less a starter bike.
Good to know...The thing is I don't want to buy a bike and then down the road regret not getting a better one (at a good price it seems)...I'll take all of you guys' advice and go try it out Saturday and see how (un)comfortable I'm with it and decide then...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 20, 2010, 06:39:16 PM
Okay so I went to The Bike Shop today to look at bikes...and I'm torn between the Specialized Transition Comp
(http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2010/bikes/9004-41_l.jpg)

and the Roubaix

(http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2010/bikes/9003-41_l.jpg)

The dude there said the same thing you guys sid the TT is a very serious bike but still I'm pretty in lust with that bike but the Roubaix can definitely  be in my garage...

Comments?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Speed 3 Pilot on February 20, 2010, 07:06:05 PM
they don't have any pedals... ;D
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on February 20, 2010, 07:15:08 PM
I think Felt makes an interesting Tri bike that can be set up with a bit of comfort in mind.  Check out their web site or see what they have over at Island Triathalon & Bike.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 20, 2010, 07:26:15 PM
Is Specialized not a good brand?  They seem pretty nice but I have no clue when it comes bicycles...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on February 20, 2010, 08:59:20 PM
Specialized is a damn good brand and The Bike Shop is as good as any other bike shop out there. I bought my first super serious bike from Faye & Dennis (her ex) almost 40 yrs ago.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 22, 2010, 07:48:22 PM
I ended up buying the Tarmac Expert SL C2...probably way too much bike but I figured might as well...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on February 22, 2010, 07:50:04 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on February 22, 2010, 07:48:22 PM
I ended up buying the Tarmac Expert SL C2...probably way too much bike but I figured might as well...

LOL  Damn man, you are all over the flippin' place! 

Congrats though!  That's a damn fine bike.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on February 22, 2010, 07:50:59 PM
So...  Who is in for a ride if I don't go shooting with Anne on Saturday?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on February 22, 2010, 08:00:00 PM
Ahhhh....I'll be in Texas for the rest of the week so I'm out but from next weekend on the plan will be long bike rides Saturdays and Bike rides Sundays (The upper case B is for the little bit extra HP the Duc has..  ;D )
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 08, 2010, 08:31:03 PM
So I have been practicing using the clip-in pedals...not going very well I feel like I'm going to eat $h!t every time I stop and even more so when I stop quickly... :(
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 08, 2010, 08:54:35 PM
Ah, pedal systems. There are two types of riders. Those who have fallen over clipped in and those who are going to. I've got mine set at the easiest release. It's not like I'm strong enough to rip out of them in a sprint anyway. BTW, I've gone over the falls a few times, if you catch the drift.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on March 08, 2010, 09:43:21 PM
 ;D  Yep, it happens to every one when they are making the transition to clip-less peddle systems.  The key is to anticipate your stops well in advance and unclip your plant leg long before you actually needed to.  But rest assured, you will go down at least five or six times. 
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 09, 2010, 02:24:44 PM
Good to know! At least I will not feel like a full retard when I fly off the bike with the shoes still attached to the bike... ;D
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on March 09, 2010, 09:07:16 PM
Don't worry, you won't be flying off anywhere.  More like you and the bike falling into one crumpled mess.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 09, 2010, 09:16:40 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on March 09, 2010, 02:24:44 PM
Good to know! At least I will not feel like a full retard when I fly off the bike with the shoes still attached to the bike... ;D

Hmmmm. I felt like the complete retard each & every time it happened to me. Wait!  Is it PC to say retard? How about dumb ass? Wait! Asses will have something to say about that.

How do you describe it when you do an end-do right in your driveway before you even get started on your ride? Retard works for me.  [laugh]
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on March 09, 2010, 09:20:15 PM
How about "special"?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 09, 2010, 09:41:13 PM
Quote from: DRKWNG on March 09, 2010, 09:20:15 PM
How about "special"?

Or Specialized?  [cheeky]
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 04:25:18 PM
 :'( ...

(http://www.sirbikesalot.com/DemotivationalPosters/bitterness.jpg)

That looks like it hurts...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 04:40:01 PM
and one more for good measure...
(http://pix.motivatedphotos.com/2009/11/10/633934453207010450-bikes.jpg)
it's even the right brand...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 10, 2010, 05:50:44 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 04:25:18 PM
:'( ...

(http://www.sirbikesalot.com/DemotivationalPosters/bitterness.jpg)

That looks like it hurts...

Was there supposed to be a photo?  The img address shows up in the thread response link but nothing that I can see.  I see the next photo with the girl holding up the bike.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 05:54:26 PM
weird...I can see the picture i posted and the same picture in your comment...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 10, 2010, 06:06:20 PM
Funny. Now I can too. But for a long while, nada.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 06:20:52 PM
Switching subjects...I'm still special (I believe that's the word that was settled on...) when it comes to bike riding and I believe that riding in the rain will only hasten my demise...so do you guys think that a trainer would be a good investment...or should I suck it up and get out there?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on March 10, 2010, 06:21:57 PM
I hate trainers, but that's just one guy's opinion.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on March 10, 2010, 06:24:01 PM
I'm new to all of this so all opinions are good opinions...what is it that you don't like about them?  Is it the hamster feel of it all?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on March 10, 2010, 09:19:29 PM
I've got one. I've even used it steadily for a couple of years, mostly during winter nights after work.  I hate it.  If you are going to punish yourself, and don't kid yourself about what it's like to really train, then at least have continuously changing scenery. I bought expensive laser canon lights to ride at night so I wouldn't be on a trainer. If it were nasty and cold outside I'd use one or if I really got serious about it all again I'd use one too. I hate riding in the rain, not so much because of getting wet or having no traction or brakes. Those parts are OK. It's the clean up I hate.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on March 11, 2010, 06:33:11 PM
Mac pretty much says it all, as he often does.  Trainers are booooooooring.  Don't fool yourself into thinking you'll get a great workout while watching TV, cause you will most likely get too distracted.  If you have the mindset that allows you to get a serious workout at home, then you may be among the few, the proud, etc etc.  If not, it's a waste of money.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on March 11, 2010, 08:23:31 PM
For the most part.  But it is a decent way to burn an hour's worth of calories, thus allowing a beer afterwards to ruin it all.  ;)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on March 11, 2010, 08:24:52 PM
Quote from: DRKWNG on March 11, 2010, 08:23:31 PM
For the most part.  But it is a decent way to burn an hour's worth of calories, thus allowing a beer afterwards to ruin it all.  ;)

Assuming it's hailing, you are right, but otherwise just go the hell outside!
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on March 11, 2010, 08:26:30 PM
But it's hard to take the tv out there...   :-\
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on April 29, 2010, 05:49:48 PM
First triathlon is next Saturday (May 8th)...and now I'm officially starting to freak out.  I'm not so worried about the distance as much as the I'm gonna mess something up and end up swimming all the way to Molokai (I hate open water swimming)...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on April 29, 2010, 06:26:12 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on April 29, 2010, 05:49:48 PM(I hate being chased by sharks)...

Fixed it for you.  ;)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on May 10, 2010, 06:28:05 PM
Finished said triathlon and didn't drown (yay for me!)...now I got 2 months to prepare for another one that is twice as long...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Speed 3 Pilot on May 10, 2010, 06:49:02 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on May 10, 2010, 06:28:05 PM
Finished said triathlon and didn't drown (yay for me!)...now I got 2 months to prepare for another one that is twice as long...

Congrats on finishing...and not downing... [thumbsup]
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 08, 2010, 11:35:42 AM
New frame on the way.  Ended up going semi-custom, as the sizes made sense and I really couldn't argue with the quality.  I should be rollin' by next weekend........
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 08, 2010, 06:59:33 PM
Whose frame? What frame? Roadie? Mountain?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 08, 2010, 07:33:26 PM
Quote from: mac900 on July 08, 2010, 06:59:33 PM
Whose frame? What frame? Roadie? Mountain?

Road.  Steel.  Designed by a cool guy names Chris, then welded by another rather awesome dude named Jay. 

I've ordered all the necessary parts as well.  I can't believe I spent so damn much on middle-of-the-road parts.   :P
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 12, 2010, 08:12:43 PM
(http://i25.tinypic.com/2qu3sc4.jpg)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 12, 2010, 09:21:12 PM
Cool!  Top tube I presume?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 13, 2010, 12:59:35 AM
So that's what was in the box.   :D

Not THE Chris King I pressume...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 13, 2010, 06:34:38 AM
Quote from: mac900 on July 12, 2010, 09:21:12 PM
Cool!  Top tube I presume?

Chain stay, actually. 


Quote from: DRKWNG on July 13, 2010, 12:59:35 AM
So that's what was in the box.   :D

Not THE Chris King I pressume...

Well, THE Chris King wasn't in the box, no.  But otherwise, yes.

Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 13, 2010, 07:28:14 AM
Quote from: jebus tristos on July 13, 2010, 06:34:38 AM
Well, THE Chris King wasn't in the box, no.  But otherwise, yes.

As in the Chris King of "I make all my own bearings" fame?  Didn't know he had much to do with frames...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 13, 2010, 07:32:57 AM
Quote from: DRKWNG on July 13, 2010, 07:28:14 AM
As in the Chris King of "I make all my own bearings" fame?  Didn't know he had much to do with frames...

Did more at one time than he does now. Of course the headsets and such are his main products, as I'm sure you know. No cookie cutter frame there. Bling!
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 13, 2010, 10:54:12 PM
The serial number is 000045.


45!



wheeee!

He actually started as a frame builder, then had a really good idea for headsets.  He made a decent business of that for a while, then decided "hmm, my machining business is pretty self-contained these days, and I kinda miss making frames."

So, here we are.   I'll throw up some detail pics soon.  Kind of impressive work.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 14, 2010, 07:18:54 AM
Quote from: jebus tristos on July 13, 2010, 10:54:12 PM
The serial number is 000045.


45!



wheeee!

He actually started as a frame builder, then had a really good idea for headsets.  He made a decent business of that for a while, then decided "hmm, my machining business is pretty self-contained these days, and I kinda miss making frames."

So, here we are.   I'll throw up some detail pics soon.  Kind of impressive work.

That's a keeper!
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 16, 2010, 04:31:36 PM
Not the greatest pictures, but it's a start.  I'm building it in my living room cause the wife isn't here to say no - still waiting on the wheels though.  I hear they're important.

(http://img.skitch.com/20100717-1cj2b4y6p5mhuypfey4wc333e3.preview.jpg) (http://skitch.com/eltristo/dc6ww/iphoto)


(http://img.skitch.com/20100717-e4pi9f98mn1sf1j34x7ttgnbsi.preview.jpg) (http://skitch.com/eltristo/dc6w7/iphoto)


(http://img.skitch.com/20100717-q91wxdxy4u5tngfbad78dray8w.preview.jpg) (http://skitch.com/eltristo/dc6ib/iphoto)

Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on July 21, 2010, 07:47:49 PM
Woot! Looking forward to the Tinman this Sunday...hoping for another non-drowning episode...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 21, 2010, 08:03:11 PM
Quote from: Xerxes1769 on July 21, 2010, 07:47:49 PM
Woot! Looking forward to the Tinman this Sunday...hoping for another non-drowning episode...

Non-drowning?  I guess that's one way to go.


[cheeky]
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 22, 2010, 05:50:57 PM
Wheels finally came today, though I still need, what are those called?   Tires! 

Oh, and my brake arms are a real stretch to reach the rims.  They are 49-57mm reach, and the frame calls for 57.    We'll see how it looks when I put tires on.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 22, 2010, 06:01:37 PM
What wheels did you get?

I'm really wanting to put together a single speed (or internally geared) cross type bike to commute on...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 22, 2010, 08:17:37 PM
Trying an off brand - Neuvation Cycling.  It's essentially one dude who spent a couple of decades working in the industry, frequently in Taiwan.  He learned the bidness, and started to do bidness on his own.  Great prices, decent reviews, big ugly stickers (which I removed).  We'll see.

As for SS, this area really doesn't lend itself, though I do like the idea of an internal hub belt drive number for commuting.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 23, 2010, 09:58:21 AM
I've heard lots of people say good things about Neuvation.  Never tried them myself though...

And no, Hawaii does not work well for single speeding.  DC seems to be a pretty decent spot though, as most of the area is pretty flat.  Well, as far as the commute goes anyhow, as I don't see myself trying to ride through Georgetown all that often.  ;)

I love the belt drive system that is making its way out now.  The only problem is that Trek was really quick at cornering the market and getting patents on everything... 
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 25, 2010, 08:57:25 PM
There are still some great rear dropout designs that Trek doesn't own, and if they own the Gates belt itself, that's news to me.

I gave the bike a quick jaunt to see what needed adjusting.  The wheels were still round when I came home.  So far, so good.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 26, 2010, 12:51:16 AM
Ok, so maybe everything was a bit strong of a word.   [cheeky]

From everything that I've heard though, they bought up enough patents to make it difficult for other companies to use the belt system without paying for it...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on July 26, 2010, 06:09:46 PM
Quote from: DRKWNG on July 26, 2010, 12:51:16 AM
Ok, so maybe everything was a bit strong of a word.   [cheeky]

From everything that I've heard though, they bought up enough patents to make it difficult for other companies to use the belt system without paying for it...

That's bidness, I suppose...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 30, 2010, 07:49:22 AM
I'll be support crew tomorrow morning at 6:30 am.  Fifteen lap race around Norfolk. Glad I'm not pedaling in that one. Took second in that race in my class a few years ago and it's only gotten tougher while I've gotten softer.  [laugh]  Tomorrow is the first stage of a three stage race. Stage 2 is a time trial up Tantalus on Sunday morning with a criterium around Kakaako Park Sunday afternoon.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 30, 2010, 08:48:50 AM
Quote from: mac900 on July 30, 2010, 07:49:22 AMTomorrow is the first stage of a three stage race. Stage 2 is a time trial up Tantalus on Sunday morning with a criterium around Kakaako Park Sunday afternoon.

Crazy talk! 
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Xerxes1769 on July 30, 2010, 10:32:11 AM
That is madness I can barely "climb" my gently sloping driveway without losing my breath...stupid hills   :-[
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: MadDuck on July 30, 2010, 10:35:25 PM
I can't exactly remember but it seems my best climb on Tantalus was either in the high 28's or the low 29's. I think the 29's and I was dying to get into the 28's.  The strong, fast guys run 21's to 23's. Everytime I'm on that hill I have running mixed memories of bicycles, motorcycles and cars.
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on July 31, 2010, 03:38:40 AM
Like I said, crazy talk!
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: Speed 3 Pilot on July 31, 2010, 01:49:37 PM
Quote from: mac900 on July 30, 2010, 07:49:22 AM
I'll be support crew tomorrow morning at 6:30 am.  Fifteen lap race around Norfolk.

How did things go this morning?...it was semi-wet here by the stadium...
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on August 23, 2011, 12:06:43 AM
I am amazed every time I ride this guy at how fast it is (while remaining very comfy)

And how slow I am (comfy or otherwise)

(http://i56.tinypic.com/bgzhxw.jpg)
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: DRKWNG on August 25, 2011, 03:10:41 AM
Whatever happened to that Colnago that you had?
Title: Re: DesmoTropic cycling thread...
Post by: eltristo on August 25, 2011, 04:17:59 PM
That was sacrificed to the gods of the list of craig for the seed money for the cielo.  As pretty as that frame was, it was totally a worthwhile trade.