Hog_

Please pass on our well wishes, and strongs to both of you. Is the bike still at the park? If you'd like me to collect it and store it in my garage or bring it to you guys, I'll be happy to.

Beautifully wrecked! Well done Ian! I hope your injuries heal faster than it takes repair/upgrade the bike bits.

It made News24: Also a full article here: http://roadsafety.co.za/2010/01/06/off-road-cyclist-critivally-injured/Hog_2010-01-06 14:44:04

Just came from the park, they haven't gotten an update on the guy, although the paramedics seemed to be pleased that he could move his arms and was okay enough to phone for help. As for the trails: The long, narrow, high bridge has been open for a while now, it's pretty challenging and a few people have managed to fall off it. Luckily nothing serious. They also completed a trail called 'Roller coaster' which incorporates the big wide bridge as well as a few smaller bridges going over the other trails. Lots of fun. Then, the one that just recently opened: Zombie Birdhouse. Now THIS is what a trail should be (except for all the climbing). Lots of turns, ups and downs, wooden paths, rock gardens.... HELL YES! If I wasn't so tired by the time we rode it I would have done a few laps.

Probably about 2 hours... which is how long it'll take the Mrs to do the 2 green routes. Don't tell her I said that.

This one time, I was so drunk that I fell off a bar stool and missed the ground. At least I think I missed the ground. It was a rough night, so my memory is a little foggy.

Just had coffee at the Bike Park. While we were there they airlifted a rider out. From what I could gather he went down hard in Space Junk and may have broken his neck. If anyone knows the rider, please wish them a speedy recovery. Also, to everyone: Remember that we are fragile, and that things can easy go wrong. Pay attention when riding, stay in control of your bike, be careful. If you can't control your bike, go for a skills clinic and learn how to ride properly, so you at least have a better chance at avoiding injury.

The seat clamp is replaceable as far as I know, so that should be fine. Is there maybe a different seat you can try, one with longer rails? Also, is your frame the correct size? It seems a bit weird that 20mm will be such a big problem.

It should be okay. The only thing that may go wrong is the seat angle changing when you're too far forward/back, since the seat clamp on them is pretty crap.

How do you guys manage to bend rotors? I've never managed that, not even with Trials riding! Anyway, I've been using 6-bolt all along, but after seeing how easy the centerlock is to install/remove, I would rather go that route. Too bad Hope doesn't make centerlock hubs.

Holy trying to show us how it's done: http://www.electricdot.net/preview/barry_uni.jpg and Ruan, showing him how it's done. Note Holy's expression! http://www.electricdot.net/preview/ruan_uni.jpg

If you can't have the rim fixed, then get a new one. The Rhynolites are great rims, maybe the only product I've ever come across that's strong, light AND well-priced. I've got one on the Trials bike that's seen a LOT of use, but it's still alive. Will definitely get one again.

Best strategy: Hang around the parking lot, until you see someone crash. Go over and introduce yourself to Holy Roller, he'll introduce you to the rest.

That Vanilla will complete the bike nicely. I did get the chainset finally, just need to pick up a rear derailleur, and fit the new bar and stem, then the bike is as good as done. Don't know why I'm still spending money on it, I just love the way it rides I guess.

Who am I kidding? The Chumba will survive cremation, it'll just need to be wiped down afterwards!

If I die, I'm making sure I get cremated with my bikes AND my beers. I'm NOT sharing!

Before you put your foot in your mouth, please allow me to point out that f40pilot is one of the best bike mechanics I've ever had the pleasure of dealing with, so I think he's spent enough time in a bike shop. As for the actual debate - the 26 vs 29 debate can only be settled by riding both and deciding what YOU like more. No one has the same riding style as you have, so no one can say what you should ride. Hog_2010-01-02 08:36:19

It looks like the online US and UK sections have an automated system that works out prices, shipping etc. A 661 shoulder brace goes for just under R1000, where Full Throttle has them for R350.

I don't think I'll be able to ride, I managed to hurt my shoulder last night. I may come through for some beers and boeries though. Will see how I feel on Sunday.