Just a casual and humble observation by Garth Libre.
Hmmmm....
> when I catch up to a large group of
> modern cyclists pulling a fast pace up a hill or
> such..... As I approach from behind, I start hearing
> clicking and then clunks and then a metal- gnashing
> cacophony, similar to the sound of bicycle hell. As
> I work my way up through the peloton, I must admit
> to being scarred and to cringing at all the sounds I
> often hear.
So we already know that you are strong enough to
chase down pack of "fast paced" riders using modern
gear, and it is clear that your classic drivetrain
isn't slowing you down.
> When we come to a
> stop for coffee,
as all performance-minders will in the midst of a hard
ride???
> they start talking about coming in
> for their six months check-up, or the three months
> tune. Get it... these are well maintained bikes, and
> many are just plain new.
I do get it. These people are not serious riders and
simply don't know when their bikes aren't working
properly. Come on, let's not confuse poor operation
of a new production bike assembled by some kid at the
LBS and serviced by him for 15 minutes after a 90 day
break-in with properly set-up equipment in a capable
rider's hands. The worst thing you can really say
about what you've observed is that it is a bummer that
it takes an experienced home mechanic or a shop wrench
with a touch of pride to keep things running smoothly.
Try listening to the pack at the local I, II, Pro
event and then tell me what you hear.
> or the rider is mentally retarded and
> can be forgiven for letting his bike make duffussy
> sounds
Nice...
Tom Dalton
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