Newsletter Issue No. 1151
December 12, 2024
Observations on Cleaning Parts With an Ultrasonic Cleaner
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
I wrote a few articles about hot waxing chains this year including one on Event Gear Simplyfast hot wax and another on the Silca Hot Waxing System, which includes a wax melting machine (with Simplyfast I used a crockpot.) Both these articles include my videos showing how to use the products to hot wax a chain. Read more.
Prevent Neck Strain on Long Rides
By Lars Hundley
If you’ve ever finished a century with a stiff neck, you know how this common cycling complaint can turn a great ride into an ordeal. The problem is simple physics – holding your head up while bent forward puts constant strain on neck muscles that weren’t designed for hours in that position. But don’t worry. With some practical adjustments on and off the bike, you can beat neck strain before it beats you. Read more.
David Bars, Cusa Coffee: 2 Holiday Gifts Really Suitable for Cyclists
By Kevin Kolodziejski
“What the hell, Diane?”
She rode with us most weekends we didn’t race, and even though she only started racing in her late 30s, Diane Castor (now Diane Grim) got so good she did some riding as a pro, and even a bit of it in Europe. She’s also one of the most thoughtful people I know, as well as the possessor of a wicked sense of humor that I absolutely get. Read more.
Pearl Izumi Men’s PRO Thermal Jersey and Attack Hybrid Jacket
By Brandon Bilyeu
The PRO Thermal Jersey is a long sleeve design that incorporates a mid-weight brushed fleece lining for warmth in moderate to cold temperatures. I found the construction to be exceptionally breathable, to the extent that I could feel the wind gently coming into the jersey. In temperatures from 50-60 F (10-16 C) the jersey alone was comfortable and the breathability was appreciated in the warmer weather. Down to 40 F (5 C), depending on ride intensity I would add a Gilet or a shell like the Attack Hybrid Jacket. The addition of a long sleeve base layer underneath kept things comfortable down to roughly freezing. Read more.
Smith Optics Sway and Bobcat Artist Series Sunglasses – Quick Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
Who says sunglasses are boring? Not the new Smith limited-edition artist series featuring internationally recognized illustrator, author, and avid cyclist Lisa Congdon is far from boring. The bright and vibrant graphics adorn two of Smith’s popular frames – Bobcat and Sway. Read more.
Saris Hottie 2 Bike Storage Stand
By Sue Rowland
The Hottie bike stand is the perfect solution for dressing up storage of your bicycles within your home. The wood face of the stand contains geometric cut outs that create interesting light patterns that are aesthetically pleasing and complement the bicycle frame geometry. The optional accessories shelf that comes with the stand can be placed in three positions on the stand and can be used to hold the bike(s) component charging systems, sports glasses, and other small items between rides. Read more.
2024 Holiday Gift Suggestions
By Sheri Rosenbaum
The trifecta of holidays are coming up – Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, a seasoned cyclist, or a beginner, there’s no better time to find the perfect gift to enhance the riding experience. Here are a few thoughtful and practical ideas to add to your holiday shopping list. Read more.
Bike-Ride Oasis
By Stan Purdum
On any lengthy bike ride, I eventually need a rest break, and that’s when coming upon a rural cemetery is like finding an oasis.
In a seemingly haphazard scattering, small cemeteries sit adjacent to country roads, the kind cyclists prefer. These burial places are ideal rest stops. Read more.
Question of the Week
Do you keep track of your rides?
Other Cool Things to Read
Slate: Why It’s So Hard to Stop Driving
Canadian Cycling: Jake Paul has committed a crime against bicycles
Le Mond: Fat tires and honking bells: when bicycles turn into SUVs
VeloNews: How Lael Wilcox Kept Her Bike Rolling While Riding Around the World
Most Clicked Last Week
Recovering Smarter for Older Cyclists
End Notes
