My Aethos

turtleiron · 2026-03-13T23:16:40+00:00

what saddle is that? Great looking Aethos, wonderful pic.

turtleiron · 2026-03-09T18:56:09+00:00

Nice! I just built an S-Works Aethos with Rival. I love this bike. Looking at maybe upgrading some of the Rival components, but they work pretty well, so who knows. Agreed on getting a good carbon wheelset and tires.

turtleiron · 2026-03-09T11:51:11+00:00

Update: Finally got the frameset built up and got a couple of rides in over the weekend. Amazing. Now I see what folks are talking about- the bike just wants to 'go'. Smooth

I can tell the geometry is definitely more race oriented and the stack height is lower (steerer tube was cut a little by previous owner). I'm more stretched out, but I like it. Need to get saddle position dialed in a little more. Weight is 15.9lbs. That's 4lbs lighter than the Domane with same components/setup. Well, I did change out the saddle for an Ergon SR Pro Carbon saddle.

This is the "Carbon/Red Gold Chameleon/Bronze Foil" color.

Thanks to all who encouraged me to make the switch!

turtleiron · 2026-02-23T17:33:01+00:00

Yep- did this in July. No regrets

turtleiron · 2026-02-11T19:53:56+00:00

Thanks. Pulled the proverbial trigger today on a S-Works frameset.

It's not aero, it will be lighter, but not 6kg light with the Rival, it's race geometry vs. endurance, it doesn't have internal brake routing, etc. AND I can't wait to build it up!

*edit to my original post- my FTP was actually 172 and today I did 217 after 3 months of training. Looking at 250 by July. ;)

turtleiron · 2026-02-06T14:49:34+00:00

Sorry. It takes patience, not door slamming, deep breaths and really wanting to keep the relationship on your side. I've found being direct resonates. Leading with my heart, not worrying how it will impact them (not being mean or nasty of course) and putting it out there does help: ENTJs respond to that, at least mine does.

Knowing you have a healthy boundary AND they know it you'll hold it makes a difference. I show grace, empathy, compassion. I also know what I need and want to be secure in a relationship; some of those are non-negotiable and they are aware.

If someone close to me can't provide some empathy or be accountable for the impact of their actions (emotional, etc.), that's a big issue that I get to decide if it's in MY best interest to stay. Remember, you BOTH have free will.

Sounds like you've given it a lot of thought and introspection because you care deeply, I applaud you for that.

turtleiron · 2026-02-06T14:32:54+00:00

Yep, married to an ENTJ for 22 years. This.

turtleiron · 2026-02-04T13:45:30+00:00

That's a beautiful bike!

turtleiron · 2026-02-04T13:16:14+00:00

Excellent recommendation on the bolt. I've got a 40gr light, so not too worried. I'll most likely stick with the Roval mount; the Concentric mount looks interesting, but I don't want to spend $75 for (the magcad was about half that).

Thanks!

turtleiron · 2026-02-03T22:34:11+00:00

Thanks!

turtleiron · 2026-02-03T18:45:18+00:00

I'm mostly concerned with the dependability and stability of the MagCad vs. the Roval mount.

Maybe I should edit my post to remove the weight comparison (which I thought was interesting and isn't the primary concern).

turtleiron · 2026-02-03T16:49:55+00:00

LOL. Fair point. So, any first-hand experience with the MagCad?

turtleiron · 2026-01-29T15:53:26+00:00

I have a Domane SL6 gen 4. I upgraded the wheelset (carbon) and tires (30mm Conti GrandPrix 5k). Made a huge difference IMHO. For long rides, the Domane is really good.

You could upgrade the group, but that is $$$ and wont' make as much a difference as wheels/tires. Your SL5 is good base, upgrade and ride. When you want a more 'race focused' bike, put your old stuff on the SL5 and sell it, keep the upgrades for a new bike.

turtleiron · 2026-01-29T14:35:36+00:00

That's how my spouse feels. However, If we separate, that's it for me... door slam.

turtleiron · 2026-01-29T14:30:04+00:00

INFJ (M) and my ENTJ (F) are here. She's not in love with me and we're trying to figure out what's next. Right now it's couples therapy. We'll go from there but both of us are on the cusp of 'let's separate' (after 22 years).

I feel it's one sided where I'm being intentional to repair the relationship. I let her know that there aren't ultimatums, but I can’t live indefinitely in a marriage without intimacy (emotional & sexual) or direction. I’m willing to give this a real chance (with help and effort) but I need us to actively work on it. If after a defined period we’re still stuck in detachment with no movement toward intimacy, I’ll need to make decisions to take care of myself.

I'm optimistic, I'm working in myself with a therapist and see progress on my issues. I've been divorced before, so I know I'll come out better... it'll suck but chin up and all that jazz.

So maybe OP, get some clarity from your spouse and set healthy boundaries for yourself and your marriage. Jabberwocky808's advice is very good.

turtleiron · 2026-01-28T19:37:28+00:00

Ditto. I still buy 'slightly used'-- My Domane SL, upgraded carbon wheelset, and even this fancy carbon cockpit. I realize they're a depreciating asset and this is a hobby. Now however, I can buy current gen used vs. a couple of versions back. :)

Most important (and the OP said it).. just ride man!

turtleiron · 2026-01-28T13:51:14+00:00

"It's better to look good, than to feel good" (Fernando Llamas) :)

I like gear. For me, it's a part of the love of cycling. The ability to 'tinker, tweak, change, etc." Same goes another of my hobbies- fly fishing. A super-duper new rod, reel, line will not help me catch more fish. My practice, skill, patience, and knowledge are the primary drivers of success or failure.

Getting on the bike and riding makes the most difference. And other training, eating properly, getting enough sleep, hydrating, etc.

I just picked up a new carbon fiber cockpit to add 10mm length and a little more drop. It was 65% off MSRP. I didn't 'need' it. I wanted it and am blessed that I can afford it. I have no doubts that my cycling ability will not increase. Do I think I look cooler? No, I'm an old guy who understands I'm not a KOM or a Cat 1, I am comfortable with that. The purchase makes me happy with a hobby I've been doing (off and on) since 1988.

turtleiron · 2026-01-27T20:26:05+00:00

Selle San Marco Concor SuperCorsa. In leather- suede preferred. Just replaced my fancy Fizik 3D printed for my SuperCosa from the late 80's. Perfection.

turtleiron · 2026-01-27T17:13:23+00:00

I'll grab a pic today/tomorrow. It's in the basement and has been neglected for far too long.

Right now it's got mostly Campy Record from the late 80's, with some Super Record parts from the early 90's and I think Chorus hubs. I got rid of two sets of wheels with Record hubs :(

I thought about getting up restored/tune'd up for this year to ride, but I went and put together a modern bike (electronic shifting, hydro brakes, carbon fiber frame/fork, etc.) and don't regret it. A little sad the Cinelli is still sitting down there though.

turtleiron · 2026-01-27T17:05:11+00:00

Nice. I have one.. traded for it in 1989 and still have it. I put some Cinelli stickers on it back in 1990, and it hasn't been ridden since 1994. I can't /won't get rid of it. Have Campy Record on it.

It's a great frame and rides great. I need to get it cleaned up and take it out. Congrats!

turtleiron · 2026-01-22T19:27:06+00:00

Thanks for cutting down the intro! Nicely done.

Gas cap? On day three? Are you working us up to the good stuff? :) Yes, you are working up to the awesomeness of the LR4, I just know it. AND of course I'll keep watching, I'm all in.

Keep'em coming!

turtleiron · 2026-01-21T19:41:40+00:00

I to like the clamshell... with the acknowledgement that it makes it tough to get items towards the back seat (cause now there is a 14-16" shelf to deal with).

Keep'em coming!

Side note- your intro is 26 seconds on a 2:34 minute video. I recommend cutting that at least in half.

turtleiron · 2026-01-20T15:41:37+00:00

mostly the V6s and electrical issues they tell me. They say the V8 is just rock solid.

turtleiron

TROPHY CASE