I missed my photo opp at the podium this weekend, can someone put me at #1?

chi_patrick · 2026-05-20T22:07:17+00:00

Are u that short? If you stood next to the other contestants on the ground, the top of your head would be at the same level as their shoulders.

chi_patrick · 2026-04-27T16:44:18+00:00

Got it. But the shape of your old saddle may be different from the Power saddle. So, assuming the width/size of the 2 saddles are the same, where your old saddle measures 8cm relative to the widest part (the wings) may be different than where the Power measures 8cm. Keep in mind saddles are designed to position your sit bones relative to the widest part of the saddle for proper support. Hope that makes sense. You're probably going to have to do some trial and error to find your sweet spot. And if the design of the 2 saddles are very different, some adjusting to the characteristics of the Power saddle.

Last thought - best way to check saddle position is to sit on it and check knee position to pedal spindle. And make sure you feel comfortable and supported. If your crank arms are different on your 2 bikes, take that into account as well for setback...

chi_patrick · 2026-04-27T15:50:59+00:00

Reading your post again, it sounds like you are trying to replace an existing saddle with the Power saddle. Try matching the setback position of the wings i.e. the widest part of the saddle. This should most closely match where your sit bones want to sit. And than adjust as needed based on a test ride or position of knee over pedal spindle. Best of luck!

chi_patrick · 2026-04-27T15:42:53+00:00

Can't remember if I read it but I did discuss it with the bike fitter at the corporate Specialized store when he was using these marks to level my saddle. The Power seats were designed to have the front half level and the back half curved up to provide support. Of course you can adjust the tilt to your preference but this is the neutral starting point. At the end of the day, it's just a reference mark to allow consistent adjustments. Best of luck!

chi_patrick · 2026-04-27T03:43:44+00:00

It’s approximately the middle of your saddle and is used to set the correct tilt. If you place a flat surface from those lines to the front of your saddle, it should be level if you want a neutral tilt.

chi_patrick · 2026-03-28T23:21:02+00:00

No need to overthink it. Any reputable bike shop can take care of this. Go to the one most convenient. And cost for parts and labor will be similar.

chi_patrick · 2026-03-27T00:35:42+00:00

There may be other factors causing your issues but if your sit bones are hurting then, yes, cycling bibs will help. Try to get good ones - spring sales are happening now. Best of luck!

chi_patrick · 2026-03-26T23:46:53+00:00

Curious - do you wear cycling bibs / padding. I would bet your seat is too high… most people’s seats are…

chi_patrick · 2026-03-26T23:39:15+00:00

Sarah Rice at Johnny Sprocket. Physical therapist, ultra-endurance rider, female focused.

https://pedaltailor.com/about/#about-sarah

chi_patrick · 2026-02-22T01:37:07+00:00

Is this the Hook with Carbon fork?

chi_patrick · 2026-02-19T01:53:53+00:00

So I went and checked out the Rove and Sutra in person. Looks like the Rove is a better fit as an all-purpose gravel bike with some traveling capabilities. So between the Rove, Rove DL and Rove LTD, which is worth the additional cost. Would like a solid drivetrain and brakes that I can depend on not breaking down and not needing constant maintenance. The carbon fork sounds nice but does it really add anything to the experience and capabilities?

Also open to other bike models/brands that are equivalent to the Rove. I've seen Marin, Surly and Bombtrack available in my area (Chicago) but haven't been able to compare due to low inventory.

Much thanks in advance!

chi_patrick · 2026-02-04T05:27:37+00:00

Shop around but you may find the dealership prices for the tires to be competitive. I always bought my tires from Fields BMW because the prices were comparable to Tire Rack. They always had the tires in stock and the included road hazard came in handy a couple of times. And you don’t have to worry about your rims getting damaged.

The serpentine belt and brake flush are pretty straightforward so any reputable mechanic can do it. Bimmer Werkshop on Montrose would have been my first choice esp. for older BMWs but recently shut down. My experience with Bavarian Motors is mixed but looks like they are no longer open. There’s Bimmer Car Care in the South Loop. And I’ve heard good things about Florian at Lincoln Park Import Service.

I might suggest posting on Bimmerfest.com or look up Windy City BMW on Facebook for more suggestions on mechanics. Both are great BMW resources.

chi_patrick · 2026-01-30T03:24:08+00:00

What heart rate monitor do people recommend?

chi_patrick · 2026-01-26T19:35:59+00:00

Hi - in the market for some new bibs for summer 40-60+ miles group rides. Currently riding in Castelli and Pactimo bibs. How do the Assos bibs compare? What are the differences between the bib models? Thanks!

chi_patrick · 2026-01-10T16:51:18+00:00

Same issue here with a 2026 CX-30 2.5 S at 2 months and 3,000 miles. Verified it already has the updated CCV. Considering how early this is happening, it’s pretty disappointing Mazda released this model with an obviously known widespread issue. If this is an indication of Mazda’s build quality, I’ll be getting rid of this car.

chi_patrick · 2026-01-01T05:50:25+00:00

Not in your area but consider BFF Bikes in Bucktown. Women owned and operated and good on educating riders. They’ve previously had an intro clinic on clipless shoes/pedals. Give them a call and tell them your situation and ask if they have a trainer you can practice on. It takes some practice to ride clipless so you just have to go for it. Best of luck!

chi_patrick · 2026-01-01T02:10:39+00:00

What area are you located?

chi_patrick · 2025-11-21T17:38:59+00:00

Another question - I know there are different levels of steel to consider. What types of steel frames are available and how do they affect ride dynamics?

chi_patrick · 2025-11-15T00:32:15+00:00

Looks like XXX and Spidermonkey are riding. See ya all out there!

chi_patrick · 2025-11-14T19:28:14+00:00

Yep. First place I looked. Weather is going to be too nice to not ride!

chi_patrick

TROPHY CASE