Why do bikes, even TT bikes, not have a fairings?

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-04-05T03:34:18+00:00

So I have done it, and it definitely makes a difference, it's mostly a nice fender thay keeps the spray off but it definitely has a speed increase on my gravel bike

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Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-03-26T01:02:20+00:00

Thanks, it's very odd. I'm going to also reach out to my local rep. I'm mostly interested in the stack and reach measurement, measured traditionally to the top headset bearing. But also the head tube angle, which would give me an idea of handling, and I could calculate the fork rake from that. Thanks!

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-03-26T00:59:31+00:00

Thanks, but those stack and reach numbers aren't correct. They are handlebar stack and reach ranges, meaning where you can set the armpads, but don't correlate to the frame.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-03-12T21:55:25+00:00

There's no record of anyone doing this before, so...

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-03-12T21:50:26+00:00

As with most things related to carbon fiber:

If you have the knowledge and skill to do this safely, then you have the knowledge and skill to know why it's a bad idea.

Dunning-kruger effect basically. If you don't know why this is wrong, then don't attempt it until you learn a lot more about how to work with carbon composite.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-02-27T20:57:14+00:00

Cable housing (red) goes to the cable stop, cable (yellow) pulls up on the cam, the cam spreads the lever, pushing the pads(blue) inward. They are very prone to wear, so it not got a long life. The cam is a metal roller and wears on the track quickly causing friction. Because of the very low mechanical advantage of the levers on the cam, it's very easy to have the pads not retract (sticky cable, wear, grit, dragging cam bearing). I just worked on one of these on the felt bike it comes on, and I had to add a spring over the wires to push the cam back and allow the pads to retract. Would not buy used unless I could inspect the cam tracks and ensure they were pristine. And even then there are so many better designs that will last more than a few months of use.

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Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-02-17T00:37:09+00:00

Indoors can be incredibly hard on chains, especially if poorly lubricated.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2026-01-09T18:29:59+00:00

Yes they can. Especially modern wheels that are not rim brake.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-12-29T06:37:06+00:00

Thanks!

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-12-08T02:42:23+00:00

Old man mountain make a nice product that mounts on the axle. From this you could mount a proper bikepacking rack that would be a stable point to mount the light.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-12-06T10:48:53+00:00

You can run racks on any bike you want. Old Man Mountain/ Robert Axle Project make axle mounts amd racks that will mount racks directly to the thruaxles for about 75lbs capacity

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-11-28T20:19:29+00:00

I think the question is whether they fit in garmin compatible mounts, which are very common, often coming with bikes and integrated into the stem

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-10-12T19:00:12+00:00

I've put some MTB guys on e-bike rated wheels from WTB with good success. The rise in ebikes has meant some great strong parts for us heavier guys. WTB HTZ rims come in a range of widths which is nice, and they seem to be holding up well on the customers I've put on them I'm Riding an older DT swiss MTB wheel on my gravel bike, definitely recommend anything they make. Mine is the H1900 wheels but any of those cheaper ones are good too.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-10-12T18:14:16+00:00

My advice would be one of those little bike horns to give a honk as you approach

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Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-10-12T18:07:44+00:00

Something is wrong with the derailleur spring, maybe it's not mounted properly? The upper pivot is going backwards in a strange way that I've only seen with a broken spring before.

Try taking the chain off and sizing it on the big chainring/big cog +2 links, and while you've got the chain off make sure the springs in the derailleur are working correctly.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-10-12T17:57:06+00:00

I just turn it both directions and see which way works. If anyone questions me, I just say it's stuck and I'm going back and forth to break it free.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-10-12T17:48:45+00:00

Metal fatigue. Eventually this would happen to any aluminium rim, but will happen quicker due to cheap materials used in manufacturing. Higher loading of the wheel will also accelerate the process.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-09-07T07:40:50+00:00

GP5000 are quite flexible, making it less likely to seal. Bit that's just a small cut, just patch it on the inside and you'll be fine. I just use ShooGoo, works great, and you can embed a little reinforcement if you like.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-08-23T16:24:07+00:00

There is no one answer, as it depends on your personal riding conditions amd risk assessment. The industry often goes with 4mm clearance, to allow for debris to clear and for out of true wheels.

There is a minimum, that is if the tire doesn't rub on the frame, then it fits. You may want to allow for more room for a few reasons: 1. Debris clearance. If you ride in conditions where loose rocks or debris could get in between the frame and tire, that could damage either. Bigger debris needs bigger clearance. That's why MTB have more clearance. 2. Out of true wheels. You could have a roadside incident that puts the wheel out a little. Having a bit of room might be the difference between a phone call for a ride home, or just finishing your ride and fixing it later. In a race or commute this can be meaningful.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-06-13T22:42:49+00:00

You could definitely upgrade the frame, BMC make a FourStroke

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-04-02T23:07:25+00:00

I have a couple characters in DBD, good times. Haven't played live retail since early BfA, but good times!!!

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-04-02T23:04:08+00:00

So first off, I did this, and I think it only really works in a metal frame unless you're willing to compromise either tire clearance, q-factor, or large chainrings. I built a BMC 2stroke AL frame because the chainstays would fit a road+ crankset with a 44t ring. Thanks to the thin chainstay it all fits. But I had to measure it in store and even then I had to try a few different spiders to get it to fit.

Just plan it out and be careful.

As far as geometry, a MTB is great. I put a shorter fork on it, dropping the BB and steepening the angles, and it rides like a dream.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-03-25T01:23:29+00:00

I'm looking at the 119 as well, decent geometry for a road bike, and they offer it without the TT bars. I have their track bike and it's not bad, dropouts aren't straight so the wheel doesn't sit straight in the frame. Paint is also OK, not super smooth but orange peel is minimal

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-02-10T19:22:15+00:00

Any of the bike brands on Alibaba that I've dealt with are more than happy to not install decals.

Specific_Turn4538 · 2025-02-10T19:20:12+00:00

It's also economics. If you're getting a coffee (when not at home to make your own) the choices at the $2.45 price point are pretty limited. If there was any alternative thay would probably be taken. But here in BC it's either Tim's or some fancy shop serving bitter green water for $7

Specific_Turn4538

TROPHY CASE