April 2009
Monthly Archive
Bike Movie28 Apr 2009 08:31 am
Movie Review: The Flying Scotsman - RacerXti
This weekend we purchased the Flying Scotsman on iTunes. I’ve always been a fan of cycling movies, since the first day I watched Breaking Away.
This movie is a classic story of an underdog, who overcomes personal struggle to reach fame and glory. Our hero Graeme Obree, played by Jonny Lee Miller, builds a bike out of scrap metal, old bicycle parts, and his wife’s washer. Obree spends much of the movie fighting against depression and UCF officials determined to stop him from succeeding.
My favorite underlining story in the movie is Graeme’s relationship with his wife, played by Laura Fraser. Anne Obree is appears to be both a loving and supportive wife. The chemistry and relationship reminds me of my wife, who is very loving and supportive of my cycling passion.
If you are a cycling fan, you will enjoy the history, jokes, and time watching Graeme in the saddle. The non-cyclist can easily be swept up in the drama and triumph of the story.
Overall I enjoyed this movie, and it is a must have for the avid cycling fan.
Novara Safari review - RacerXti
Great long distance commuter
ShawnC Denver, CO 4/27/2009
4 5
Gift: No
Pros: Comfortable, Stylish, Durable
Cons: Heavy
Best Uses: Commuting, Uneven Surfaces
Describe Yourself: Avid Cyclist
I purchased my Safari earlier this year for commuting to work. My commute is 28 miles over a combination of paved roads, dirt roads, and bike paths. The Safari is the perfect bike for my needs. I’ve ridden over 1000 miles this year commuting on this bike, and know it well.
Likes:
The frame is very strong and stiff. It doesn’t flex when fully loaded and is bouncing down dirt roads. The 29″ wheels roll smooth over rough spots in the road. Wide road tires provide great control and comfort on dirt roads. Disc brakes bring my rig to an easy stop during muddy or wet conditions. The included rear rack works great with my panniers. The handlebar looks odd, but is very comfortable on longer rides. Saddle looks cool and is very comfortable for people with wide hips.
Dilikes:
Handlebar tape provides little padding. I upgraded to Gel Cork wrap after first ride. The Safari only has two water bottles bosses, not nearly enough for rides over 2 hours. Easily fixed with strap on bosses. The Safari is very heavy. I don’t notice the weight so much when riding, but rather when porting my bike up stairs. I think of it a weight training for my weekend club rides. I can haul a 35+ lbs bike 28 miles then my 20 lbs road bike is cake.
Conclusion:
The Novara Safari is a dependable on/off road touring bike perfect for my flavor of bicycle commuting. I am very happy I purchased the 2009 model (29″ wheels), and would strongly recommend this bike. For the price nothing is even close, and well worth the money.
()
General Ramblings26 Apr 2009 10:50 am
Spring is here time to start riding again - RacerXti
I spent the winter hibernating like a bear. Not the best way to stay in shape, so I’m paying for my lazyness now. I’ve spent the last few months cross-training in our basement. My week included 6 days of weight training, spinning, and alt cardio activities. I have a good base, and I’m ready to start this season with some fun local rides.
I’m also gearing up to start commuting to work again. I have a dedicated commuting bike now, recently picking up a Novara Safari touring bike. I’m pretty excited since this bike will allow me to ride the full distance from work over some questionable unpaved roads, crushed rock trails, and rain or shine.
My road bike will be used for a few organized rides we are planning on riding this year. Our goal is to ride metric centuries, which is about the most mileage we can take before really starting to suffer. Which reminds me we need to sign up for the Elephant Rock ride this weekend.
As we ride more I plan on spending more time writing for this blog. I hope you enjoy some of our stories and posts. Thanks for stopping by.
