new chain
Last weekend I lowered my gear ratio from 16T to 17T but after a few days it seemed just as hard somehow. Was it the hub bearing? Nope. I’d checked that when I had fitted the new sprocket. So perhaps the bottom bracket? I checked the chain and re-read Sheldon Brown’s article on chain wear. My Park Tools chain checker showed that the chain did indeed need to be replaced. A brand new KMC track chain was ready and waiting in my parts box so I fitted it and of course checked the bottom bracket while I did so. No problems as far as I could see and hear. I used the special connecting link rather than simply using the chain tool as I thought that I might like to remove it for cleaning at some point. I didn’t lube the chain at all. One of the things that Sheldon explained in his article was the light factory oil that comes with a new bicycle chain is the best lube of all and that one should run the chain with that as far as possible.
But the next part was the best part: the riding. I was now experiencing the full smoothness and speed of the drivetrain. It all felt buttery smooth and I was going a touch faster too. So thanks again to Mr. Sheldon Brown for showing me the way, bike wise at least.
I also purchased a new wheel truing stand today along with a master mechanic spoke key. The spoke key is a bit of a treat for myself and I want to see if it really is better than the one that I’m using at the moment. The truing stand is exactly the same make and model as the one that I currently use, the Park TS-7. I’m getting it to have a second truing stand for the next wheel building workshop which I’m planning to run on the 21st of August. I’ve posted a piece about it on the lfgss forum which is where most people came from last time. I hope it will be a worthy investment.
I also tried pear cider for the first time. It’s ok but a little too sweet and not quite as nice as the apple variety. I’ve become a bit of a fan of cider lately probably due to the hype that it’s been getting. Nice alternative to beer but I sense that it’s just a bit of a phase.