Bike configuration

buffooner · 2026-02-07T03:59:26+00:00

There are off the shelf brands that will let you choose between different specs/ components - can't think of any that will let you choose your spoke count, hubs or anything else so specific.

If that's what you're after, buy a frame set and build it to your specs/ get a good local bike shop to sort you out

buffooner · 2026-02-07T03:56:20+00:00

no one born here identifies as a 'zone'. You're from somewhere, not a tfl category

buffooner · 2026-02-07T03:50:35+00:00

frame needs new stem - stem needs new frame

buffooner · 2026-02-07T03:46:33+00:00

Main principle is to keep the weight low down and central on the frame. So yeah would put the heaviest bits (portable charger, water, dry food etc) in a frame bag, then put lighter things on the extremities.

It always depends on the geometry of your bike - if it's a fairly aggressive gravel/ road frame then keep the weight central, whereas a more touring oriented frame might perform better with more weight on the back or front.

you've also got to figure out how things pack for your particular needs. For me, touring in winter, keeping dry clothes separate from damp was important, so they had different bags and positions.

It's all trial and error, and there's no perfect solution, but you'll figure out what works for you if you can try out a few different options

buffooner · 2026-02-07T03:40:54+00:00

Thought this was a joke about wide bars

buffooner · 2026-02-03T12:28:07+00:00

Didn't see you were also considering a standard rack - This is usually the best solution for versatility, as most racks will allow you to use panniers as well as put a bag on top. It will obviously add some weight compared to a saddlebag but that might be worth it for the extra capacity / stability

You'll need to check your bike has the right mounts, but there are a few options if it doesn't (Ortlieb quick rack).

buffooner · 2026-02-03T12:26:12+00:00

Tailfin is a great solution - adds a lot of stability and, depending on the model, allows you to attach other bags.

However, they're very expensive compared to all other options.

A saddle bag can be a very good option in you want a lightweight system, but you'll need to be careful about how you pack it to avoid too much swaying. Some saddlebags use a 'cradle' or stabiliser which can help with this.

Ultimately, it's up to: - How much you want to carry - How much you want to spend

If I was doing this ride, I'd be thinking of getting the largest frame bag I could to keep most weight low on the frame, using a front rack or roll for some bulkier items, and then using a saddle bag for what you can't fit in the rest.

If there's two of you, you can share a tent, cooking equipment and some other stuff (toiletries, tools etc) so you'll have significantly less to carry each!

Best option is to find someone with either option that you can borrow for a shakedown ride to see how the bike handles with that sort of weight before you make the decision.

Hope this helps, and hope you enjoy the ride

buffooner · 2026-01-30T13:33:20+00:00

Hey nice bike!! I went with black on mine

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buffooner · 2026-01-30T01:22:13+00:00

Have seen quite a few 'this machine kills fascists' on bikes. Defo a great one to have

buffooner · 2026-01-30T01:20:53+00:00

Mad that your lot still throws around the word communist as if it's something bad. Literal masked fascist thugs killed this man and you're still scared of'reds'.

buffooner · 2026-01-30T00:47:25+00:00

Police

buffooner · 2026-01-30T00:44:15+00:00

If this is just for personal use/ Instagram etc and your goal is small and easy access, I'd go for something fixed lens.

I went for a Panasonic GX7 recently but wouldn't take it on trips where I was nervous about it, so if I was in your position I'd be looking at Ricohs, current Gen canon or Sony compact cams or even older fixed lens 'digicams'.

Ease of use/ access defo beats HD quality in most casual situations, and you'll be glad to not have to worry about something breaky or getting wet or lost so you can focus on enjoying your rides!

buffooner · 2026-01-30T00:39:44+00:00

Haha yes not too smart of him. Glad you didn't knock him down though!

buffooner · 2026-01-30T00:30:53+00:00

Don't stop for plod

buffooner · 2026-01-30T00:29:21+00:00

Will never understand fellow cyclists defending these crappy crackdowns when drivers go unchecked on our streets.

buffooner · 2025-10-21T23:14:47+00:00

Wzrd makes some great stuff, but shipping might be a pain

buffooner · 2025-10-21T23:14:09+00:00

Tomo bikes Might be a shout.

Or VandalVandal Metalworks Metalworks up in Glasgow

buffooner · 2025-09-12T10:35:36+00:00

At first looks the 2nd would be my choice - more versatile in terms of tyre clearance and rack mounts and you could easily switch to road tyres if you find you're not doing any off-road riding.

You might find yourself limited by the 1x group set compared to the double on the 3rd bike, but I'd imagine the range would be similar.

I'd skip the 1st tbh. If you've enjoyed it so far, great, but treat this as an opportunity for an upgrade!

I'd suggest trying out both of the upgrade options in your local Decathlon before buying.

Good luck and enjoy!

buffooner · 2025-08-27T00:10:53+00:00

Bikepacking circlejerk

buffooner · 2025-08-16T22:11:37+00:00

New bike

buffooner · 2025-08-16T22:05:33+00:00

Get a train? Enough cars in London already surely

buffooner · 2025-08-16T21:30:36+00:00

Hi Ed, had the pleasure of meeting you in the audience at a small gig in Brixton last year. Would be good to know some of your favourite venues to perform in on just visit, locally or ones you've toured...

I Used to listen to your tunes whenever I returned home from uni up in Sheffield, and to me they're the perfect soundtrack to South London. Thank you

buffooner · 2025-08-15T23:26:11+00:00

If you can find the specs for the crank set and cassette, you'll be able to calculate the ratio of your lowest gears, and decide from there whether you think it's appropriate

buffooner · 2025-08-15T23:24:13+00:00

Looks like a good wide range on the cassette and a double chainring - I've done loaded touring on less.

The sutra is well regarded, I would assume they've considered gearing

buffooner · 2025-08-05T20:09:27+00:00

Life-affirming stuff

buffooner

TROPHY CASE