January 2006

Road Bike

We bought a number of Giant TCR LTD bikes. These bikes have the same frame as the 2006 TCR Composite 2 and the same Shimano Ultegra drive train. Where the bikes differ is in the wheel set. The LTD came with the cheaper ZeroLite wheels while the ’06 TCR2 has the Mavic Askium wheels, but the TCR Composite 2 doesn’t come with pedals while the LTD has Shimano 105 SPDR pedals (which are pretty sweet). Another difference is that the LTD has a compact crank set instead of the standard crank on the TCR2.The compact crank has a much more user friendly gear range for normal humans. The really big difference is in the price. While the 2006 TCR composite 2 sells for $2100 plus about $89 for a set of the pedals that are on the LTD, we sell the LTD with pedals for $1800 or if you want to upgrade the wheels, we offer it with Shimano 550 wheels for $1900.That is where the smart money will go.

Safety and Bike Etiquette

If you store your bike in your garage, lock it to something immobile. In this area I have heard of an incredible number of bikes that are being stolen from garages even with the door closed. Rarely are these bikes recovered. More than likely they are sold on E-Bay so you might search there for it. I don’t know what you would do if you saw your bike on E-Bay but you might think of something. You can also check the pawnshops. Also be sure to record your bikes serial number somewhere where you can find it later. The serial number is usually found by turning your bike upside down and looking for it, engraved on the bottom bracket shell of the frame (between the crank arms). You’ll need that if you are going to take steps to attempt to recover your bike.

Look on the sidewall of your tires for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires with a tire pump that has a gauge before each ride. Riding a bike with too low tire pressure will damage your wheels, make the bike more difficult to control, and make it more work to pedal. Just say “no” to low tire pressure.

What’s happening at Urban Bicycle Gallery?

The Flatonia trails are looking good. I’ll be going out there this Sunday Morning 1-8-06 to do some riding and trail building. Give me a call if you want to go check it out. This is an invitation –only type of deal. It’s not a public trail so if you want to ride it you have to go with me-Tom (you don’t have to ride out there in the car with me. You might not like my taste in music. You can follow me out there).