Not impressed with Life-Cycles mail order

I wanted to buy some Endura clothing and after a few searches on the net, I discovered that Life-Cycles had pretty much the best pricing and seem to show the most extensive Endura range of any online retailer.  On the 10th October I placed an order for a Windchill jacket and some undershorts.  I ordered early in the morning and was assuming the gear would be dispatched that day.
After a few days I emailed them to ask when it was getting dispatched, but no answer.  After a few further days I telephoned and the guy blamed it on someone being on holiday the previous week and said he'll look into it and email me - and again no answer.  I left it another few days and then emailed asking for an update.  Yet again I didn't get a reply and now today after 18 days the package arrived - sent by first class recorded.


So I'm very disappointed in this companies lack of communications appalling speed they have taken to deliver my goods.  I would accept a delay if I was informed that items were out of stock and or informed of problems - but nothing!


In the last month I have purchased other bike bits from outside the UK and the speed I've received these has been fantastic.  I purchased an two Ergon BC1 backpacks from Israel on eBay - they arrived 2 days later (and with no VAT or import duty demand either)!!  I then purchased two Ergon bladders from Rose Bikes in Germany and again these arrived only 2 days later.  I then purchased some torches from Lightmalls in China and these only took 10 days.  And Lightmalls reply to their emails.


I think I'll be buying outside the UK more often!

Panaracer Flat-Away puncture resistance tyre liner

I've just brought a set of Panaracer Flat-Away tyre liners and because there is little information about this product on the net, I thought I'd add this, to help others.

Each box contains enough tape for one 26" MTB tyre and costs around £10-12 each.  There is also a road tyre version.  It's a self adhesive felt tape, made from Kevlar, that sticks inside your tyre and hopefully stops thorns puncturing the innertube.

The MTB version is 40mm wide and 2150mm long.
It's also very light.  Out of the box it weighed only 42g, but after trimming it to the correct length and removing the backing sheet, the final installed weight is only 29g.

I did some tests with the sharpest nail I could find.  This little nail was very sharp for a nail - it would easily cut you.  See the video here.

I've fitted the Flat-Aways, so now time will tell if they do really work.  The reviews on the net from owners are generally very good and it seems this product is the best of the tyre liners.  What it isn't going to do is stop punctures in the side wall, as the tape only covers the tread area of your tyre.

The only downside I can see is that this felt does absorb water and there always is a little bit of water and muck gets inside my tyres, so I do wonder if over time this felt will just add extra weight.

SRAM rear derailleur model changes

Following recent investigations in to replacement jockey wheels for my SRAM X9 rear derailleur, I found that there was lot of confusion as to what jockey wheels fit which SRAM derailleurs.  For example, some suppliers might say "not X9", but there 4 different X9 model changes and also the short cage versions can have different jockey wheels to the long and medium cage models.
This SRAM parts list will help.
Basically, this is when the model year changes on SRAM rear derailleurs...

9 speed
X0 2006-2011
X9/X7 2010-2011
X9 2007-2009
X7 2007-2009
X9/X7 2005-2006
X9/X7 >2004
X5 2008-2011

10 speed
XX 2010-2011
X0/X9/X7 2011

So based on this, the KCNC jockey wheels should fit the following 9-speed derailleurs (pictured below): X0 2006-2011, X9 2010-2011, X7 2010-2011, but possibly not the short cage versions.

2010-2011 X7 9-speed

2010-2011 X9 9-speed

2006-2011 X0 9-speed
(although colour/materials shown here may be only on later models)

Replacement jockey wheels for SRAM X9 rear derailleur

When looking for replacement jockey wheels for SRAM derailleurs, there is a lot of conflicting compatibility details, particularly for SRAM X9.  I've written this to help X9 owners.

SRAM X9 (2009/2010) jockey wheels

My X9 (2009 model) jockey wheels were seizing up after every winter ride.  I had to remove the wheels, clean them (where I noticed that that rust would come from the bearing), and grease them after every ride.  I found the bearings on the X9 wheels would give problems after just a few weeks from new.  I only ride at weekends, so I found that after just 2 or 3 rides, the bearings went stiff.  I tried greasing them or just using TF2 spray and neither helped.  Some people recommend not greasing as this can attract dirt and make it worse.   I had to buy a new derailleur (for another reason)  and  got another X9, but a 2010 model.  This was exactly the same and again the jockey wheels then went stiff and were seizing after just two rides.

Genuine SRAM jockey wheels are £23 from CRC.  I started looking for alternatives, as I'd proved that the SRAM bearings were hopeless, but soon found that none seemed to be compatible with the X9 derailleur.

Then a fellow BikeRader forum user (thanks 'glennpro09') confirmed that the KCNC wheels fitted his 2010 X9 long cage derailleur, even though sites list the KCNC's for only SRAM X0 and some specifically say "not X9".

The KCNC jockey wheels get excellent reviews, but are quite expensive.  They do 10,11,12 & 13 teeth versions and all available with either a stainless steal bearing or a ceramic bearing.  I opted for the ceramic version of the 11T at £37.99 (delivered) from Ready to Ride Cycles via eBay.   The benefits of a ceramic bearing may be wasted in a jockey wheel, but for the £11 premium I decided it was worth buying the 'best'.

They are a perfect fit for the 2009/2010 X9, as you can see from these photos...

They've now been fitted on my bike for last four rides and so far are still running as smooth as they were when new (and the ceramic bearing is soooo much smoother than the SRAM wheels were when new) and not needed cleaning, apart from the normal hose down I give my bike after each muddy ride.  My new SRAM wheels were stiff by this time, so so far they've proved to be superior.  Only time will tell, but build quality and the way the bearings are sealed, these look like they will work and prove to be far better than buying genuine SRAM jockey wheels.  By fitting these, the time I need to spend cleaning the bike has certainly reduced considerably.  Although these KCNC wheels were expensive, it was money well spent.  Just wish SRAM could make their bearings cope with the UK conditions.

Update: My 2009 X9 rear derailleur is stamped 'DEC2009', is actually a 2010 model.  After referring to the SRAM parts lists, it seems that these KCNC jockey wheels will fit the following SRAM 3x9 models:

• X0 2006-2011
• X9 2010-2011
• X7 2010-2011

Check first though.  See the SRAM parts list here before you buy.

Endura Singletrack E8007 pants

I've never liked lycra trousers.  I look silly in them.  Then one day after getting in from a ride my wife made a comment like "you can't go out looking like that again" after seeing my 'package' on show, so I decided some better trousers were needed.  After reading the reviews, I called into an Evans store to check out the Endura Singletrack pants.

At £64.99 these are expensive trousers.  But I'm so glad I got these!
I'm also glad I tried them on in a store, rather than buying online.  There's a lot of comments online that the Endura sizing is a bit hit and miss and they are certainly right.  The Endura sizing chart indicates that I should need a size M, being a 34-35" waist.  I tried these in the store and they were too tight.  Then tried a size L and these fit perfectly (even quite snug), even though the Eudura size L is 36-38".  I don't know who Endura uses for modelling, but the Scottish aren't known for being a slim lot!

These trousers seem to have flexibility in the right places with stretchy material on the knees, waist, crotch and down the sides.  There are pockets front and back, each with a central velcro pad to keep them closed.  But I find these pockets a little too tight and difficult to use while riding and and the velcro makes them difficult to remove something (like a handkerchief) with your gloves on.  One of the side pockets has an internal "zipped security pocket" for change.  This pocket is large (same size as outer pocket), but the zipped entry isn't wide.  I've got small hands and it's still tight.
There is a fixed belt on the front and side straps to adjust the waistband.  The front fastening is a single popper rather than a button.  At the bottom of each leg is a velco strap for keeping them tight at the ankles and away from your chain.  They also have a 13" long zip (with velcro tabs) up each leg, allowing them to open up enough to get on or off over shoes.
The best feature of these trousers is the 8" zipped vent panels on each leg, with stretchy mesh behind, allowing you to wear these in hot weather.  The vents really work well.
There's no padding inside, so you may need to wear padded underpants or lycra shorts underneath.  The trousers have poppers around the waist band (four panels with three poppers on each) to attach Endura "Clickfast" undershorts.


These trousers aren't fully waterproof.  I've been stuck out in bad rain and I still got soaked to the skin, but they are splash proof and fine for lighter showers.  They also aren't that warm, so during the recent cold weather, I'm still wearing my lycra trousers underneath.  But what they are, are a trouser you can wear all year round in the wet and dry, winter and summer.  They are also robust and offer great protection from brambles etc.  When the summer comes, I'm sure I'll still be wearing these, rather than my shorts.  If they get too hot, then I'll probably invest in a pair of the shorts or 3/4 length versions.


Overall, the best item of cycle clothing I've purchased so far.  


My rating: 9/10

Topeak Defender RX rear mudguard review

I purchased this mudguard from Halfords in Sept 2010 for £15.  I wanted a quick release as I intended to only use mudguards when absolutely necessary.
The guard looked well made and was very light - only 200g which is remarkable for it's size and construction.  Either end of the mudguard are clear plastic sections which have adjustable angles, so the mudguard can follow the wheel contour a little more.  The far end section is optional.  I didn't bother with it as the mudguard was large enough without it.


The mudguard did a very good job of keeping the spray and mud of my back.  However, the quick release system wasn't ideal.  It uses a fabric strap, which is clamped tight around the seat post and held tight by a levered handle holding a metal pin.  It can be done up very tight, but even, then the mudguard will still move if knocked - I often hit it with my foot when getting on and off bike.  And sometimes after coming down a rough track, I'd find the mudguard and swung out.


When the mudguard was only 5 weeks old, the stitching on the fabric strap broke, loosing the metal retaining pin on the end of the strap.  Yet another product in the bin after only a few weeks old!  It could be that I was doing the strap up too tight, but I had too to try to keep it in place.

Quick release broke after 5 weeks

I concluded that quick release systems are a waste of time.  How quick do you need to remove your mudguards?  You're not going to take them off mid-ride - you decide to fit them before you leave.  My new mudguard is a Cycraguard and it takes no longer to fit or remove than the quick release Topeak and only needs an allen key - and I always have one of these at base and in my saddlebag on rides - so no need for these quick release clamps which I'm sure never work as well as a traditional bolted clamp.


My rating: 4/10


You can view more product detail at the Topeak website.

Bikehut Travelling Track Bike Pump review

BikeHut Travelling Track pump - Halfords part no. 128283-0.  £19.99

I purchased this pump from Halfords in Sept 2010.  I wanted a small lightweight pump (with a hose) to mount to the frame of my bike and this was the smallest they had on the shelf.  It wasn't ideal, but the store had limited stocks.  It's intended for road bikes as it goes up to 120psi, so it should have no problem with normal MTB pressures.

It's a mini track pump and for it's tiny size, it has some good features, like the large folding foot support.  At the end of the hose is a universal adaptor which after unscrewing and reversing the internal rubber parts can go onto either presta or  schrader valves.  This arrangement is quite common on pumps, but a little fiddly and not ideal.  
I get a punctures fairly frequently, so soon after purchasing it, I was using the pump when out on the tracks.  It worked fine, but being a high pressure/low volume pump, it did take a while to pump up my MTB tyre. 
Then a week later on my next ride, I got another puncture.  Then went to use the pump and it didn't work.  It seemed the seals had gone.  It was only 5 weeks old and had only been used the once!  I could have been really caught out and had a long walk home, but luckily I was with someone who had a pump - a Lezyne pump.  So guess what I brought next?


Being only 5 weeks old, I could take it back to Halfords for a refund or replacement, but it wasn't worth the trip.  Instead it went in the bin and I wont buy BikeHut branded stuff again.


Overall then, nice design but quality isn't there.


My rating:  2/10

Differences between SRAM X7 & X9 shifters

SRAM state model years on their products and it is probably just a big marketing racket to make people upgrade.  Also there is some confusion about technologies shifting down the range when a new higher range is introduced.  i.e. is this year's X7 kit the same as the previous year's X9 kit?  Chat on the forums suggest this is the case sometimes.


I don't have any answers, but I do have a selection of SRAM 9-speed shifters, so I thought I'd post these comparison photos as this might help someone in the future. 


My bike (a 2010 Boardman Team FS) had SRAM X7 shifters with an X9 rear derailleur and X7 up front.   Over the last few weeks there seems to be loads of new SRAM kit on eBay.  I assume all the shops are selling off the 2010 kit to stock up on the 2011 kit.  Some of it is quite cheap, so I decided to upgrade my rear shifter to match the X9 derailleur.


So I purchased a new X9 9-speed shifter, only to find that when it arrived it was a 2009 model.  After asking on the forums, I was advised this was probably not an upgrade to my 2010 X7 shifter!  So I hunted out another new X9 shifter and this time purchased a 2011 model.


The differences between the two X9 shifters can been seen in these photos.  One is a 2010/2011 model (stamped Aug 2010) and the other is a 2009 model (stamped Jan 2009).

They both weigh the same at 130g.

My previous X7 shifter is stamped Aug 2009.  I'm not sure if this is a 2009 or 2010 model.  However, it is almost identical to the 2011 X9 shifter above.

The only visible difference is that the casing is all plastic rather than half metal of the X9.  The X7 shifter weighs 128g.  I've not opened them to see if there is any internal differences, but the shifting action feels the same when in your hand.

Obviously the case design has changed recently and is now slightly slimmer, but my conclusion is that the difference between an X7 and X9 model is just the metal case and obviously no point in spending the extra money for the X9 unless you really like the little bit of bling!  

Bikehut performance platform pedals review

Purchased from Halfords (search on cat code 121619-0) for £29.99, these are good value alloy platform pedals.  They are precision CNC machined from a solid block of aluminium, with a 9/16 sized axel and 9 replaceable studs on each side.
The allen nut provides easy access to the bearing and to grease the axel - not that I've needed too yet, but I have taken them apart to check if they were greased properly and to see if any grit was getting passed the seals (it wasn't).  

They're not particularly light, but for the price they are very well made, strong and superb value.  They are half the price of other similar pedals.  They do look good too - apart from the Bikehut logo!!.
Size is approx 90mm width, 100mm long and 18mm deep.


My rating: 8/10

Park Tool CNW-2 chainring nut wrench review

I purchased this to hold the nut on the rear derailleur hanger.  After trying to hold it with two flat bade screwdrivers, I decided to buy the right tool for the job.  I went for the Park one as they have such a good reputation and at only £3.99 from Chain Reaction Cycles it was a small price to pay.

The tool is a bit of a lightweight and I'm not impressed with it.  For only £3.99, I suppose you can't expect much, but it could have been far better.  It is about 11cm long and made from 1mm thick pressed steel with a bright chrome finish.

The problem I found is that it is too thin and therefore much thinner than the size of the slot in the nuts and means you can't put much force on it before it pops out.  Being such a smooth glossy finish probably doesn't help either.  Also the ends (the vital bits that fit in the slot of the nut) have slightly rounded sides which also doesn't help it stay in place under force.  I'm going to get a metal file to it to see if I can make the ends completely flat to see if that improves it.  But ideally it should be made out of a metal that is two or three times thicker.

My rating: 4/10


Does anyone know of any other similar tools for holding the slotted nuts?
CRC sell the BBB BoldGrip BTL32L wrench, but it looks to be no better than the Park one.  See http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=60760

Lezyne Alloy Drive MTB hand pump

After my previous BikeHut hand pump only lasted about a month and failed on second use, I decided to buy the best small pump I could find.  All the reviews led me to Lezyne.

I purchased the Lezyne Alloy Drive high-volume pump in Medium size.  See http://www.lezyne.com/alloy-drive for all the details.
The pump is extremely light at only 128 grams and is small enough to carry in your Camelbak, although probably better with the small size if you're going to carry it - 166mm vs 214mm long.  I mounted mine on the frame with the supplied cradle.  The cradle is designed to fit under a bottle holder, so it sticks out to one side.
This pump is pure class and oozes quality - it's 100% aluminium.  The flexible hose is double ended for either presta or schrader valves, yet cleverly also screws into the pump either way.  As this is the high-volume version, which is ideal for mountain bikes, it inflates a standard 26x2.1" tube in less than a minute.
At both ends of the pump are rubber caps protecting the pump from dirt and water.  I found that these aren't quite secure enough and don't offer enough protection if the pump is mounted on the lower section of the frame where it gets covered in crud.  So I've resorted to wrapping the pump in a plastic bag, which spoils the look a little, but at least is stops grit getting into the threads.
At £23.88 delivered (of an eBay retailer), this pump is well worth the money, considering that my previous pump cost £20 and only lasted a month before the seals failed.  I normally get a puncture on every weekend ride and I find this pump a pleasure to use.  I'd go so far as to say it is perfect and unbeatable.  I just wish there was a little protective jacket for it, as it's too nice to get dirty!


My rating: 10/10

Urge Endur-O-Matic MTB helmet review

This is my first time using blogger.  I thought I'd try it to post a review of the new Urge Endur-o-matic bike helmet as there is very little information on the internet about this helmet and I hope this will help others in the future.  Please add your comments.


This helmet is new to the UK in late December 2010.  Mine arrived on Christmas eve after ordering it from Chain Reaction Cycles a few weeks ago.

As a middle aged bloke who's recently got back into mountain biking again, I wanted a new helmet.  After a recent fall, I wanted one with the best protection available.  I've never been impressed with the trend of having more and larger air vents.  Fine for the road, but it would be far too easy for a stick or stone to come through these vents when falling in rough terrain.  I also wanted one that gave you protection around the back of the head.  I considered the Fox Flux and the Uvex XP100 - both of which seemed to offer the best protection of the traditional styled helmets.  Then I saw pictures of the new POC Trabec helmet due in April 2011 and then the Urge Endur-O-Matic.  Both seem to offer similar protection and after researching (the limited) information on the net, I decided to get the Urge as it was available sooner and is much cheaper.


Firstly, the sizing isn't clear.  Many online retailers aren't yet displaying the sizing information.  The helmet is available in two sizes: S/M and L/XL. After emailing the distribution company, they told me that S/M = 54-57cm and L/XL = 58-61cm.  I therefore ordered a L/XL.  Now that mine has arrived, the label inside says 57-60cm.
My head is 59.5cm and the helmet is not tight.  In fact I've changed one of the pads to the thicker one.


Inside the box you get:

• the helmet
• a storage bag
• two replacement pads
• a sheet of stickers
• instruction leaflet

The helmet is very light.  I weighed mine at 322 grams with one thin pad and one thick pad fitted.  The outer plastic shell is very high gloss and looks great.  The construction is a dense polystyrene of between 15-24mm thickness.  The fitting is pretty basic.  There's no internal headband.  Instead there is a front and rear pad, which fixes by a few small velcro adhesive discs.  One set of pads is about 5mm thick and the other about 10mm.  You simply install which combination is most suitable.  Therefore, I think some people may find it might not fit as well as some others and should check it first.  Trouble is that you can't if buying online.  However, I find it fits well and is very comfortable, so take the plunge!

Cooling is via eight 30mm round vents - four at the front, two on top and two at the rear.  They are meant to be positioned to create a venturi effect and the flexible visor is meant to aid airflow.  I've only used it for one 2 hour ride so far and I didn't find it hot at all.  Seemed no worse than my Met helmet.  I was only 5 degC today, so it might be a different story in the summer, but so far the cooling certainly works.  

The helmet comes in a range of colours.  See http://www.urgebike.com/accueil_gb.html  for the details.  I chose the black/white/red (red straps) and have already added some of the additional stickers in these photos.

So far, I'm very impressed with the helmet. It seems to offer superior protection and looks different.  It's an ideal compromise between a full face helmet and a traditional bike helmet.  Some will not like the styling and may find it (or think it will be) too hot, but that's personal preferences.  It looks a looks a lot more helmet for £79.99 than anything else at this price.  My only criticism so far is that the buckle could do with some sort of protection to stop pinching your skin when doing it up.

My rating: 9/10