SimpleDom

Question for those who have done this race before. Are there serious congestion issues on the route? I'm aiming for a sub 4 hr, and not sure this is achievable from group F. This is only 20% moaning, but 80% trying to set a realistic goal for the race. I hit 5 hours on the Cradle mountain Trophy day 1, including 45 minutes of literally standing still...

I'm seeded in batch F. I'm not happy about that... I guess everyone else in this race is just super fast.

Just an update, I bought a couple of 16t from this site eventually: http://www.rosebikes.com/products/bike-parts/cassettes/10-speed/10-speed/?applicationarea=undefined&brand=764&sex=undefined&order=topseller&count=16&page=2 They have all the spare bits you might need... Shipping is expensive, but at least stuff is available. I can't believe no-one has thought to carry cassette spares locally... Seems like a very cost effective option to replace worn sprockets vs whole cassettes....

I found this site with the 16t...They have the 11t too. http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/mobile/shimano-deore-xt-cs-m760-sprocket-16t-(aq-group)-1za-1644-prod15834/

I'll swap you one (SLX) for a shimano 16tooth Sprocket.

What about the integrity of the frame with the extra travel? Doesn't it slacken out the head angle and introduce unplanned stress on the frame? Warranty?

Great airtime here for Scott. Perhaps that was the intention of this thread....

I have one of these : http://www.extremelights.co.za/shop/niteye-b10-cycle-light/ It works really well. Plenty of light, and lasts for a VERY long time.

Congrats on the bike. You'll see the same thing on every ride. Just give it a good clean and off you go!

My wife bought some beans fro Truth Coffee for me. They are delicious. Great roasting job and very nice blend.

Leaving the car at work has been fundamental to my commute. So many benefits!

There is always that 1 spot that you KNOW isn't safe to ride.....

Ok. I'm convinced.... Baggies over bibs it is.

In for 70km....

Hilly.

I run my Anthem X1 suspension (shock and fork) fully open, permanently. I weigh 94kg, and I'm 1.98m tall. I tried playing with the CTD, but honestly, that Maestro just does what I need. I run the shock at 210psi, and the fork at 120psi. Tyre pressure is also key. The only time I ever get pedal bob is if I stand and pedal (also talking non technical climbs here). So I just sit instead. :-) In summary, the Anthem is a fantastic machine. You won't be sorry.

This is a treat. Gavin is great. Now I'm really looking forward to it!!!

That's very sad. There was a time where I really rated their cappuccinos.... Haven't had one for months.

Ok. Some advice please. I have a few indulgences which haunt me with cravings. Most of all: full cream real dairy ice cream, and also chocolate (the really good stuff). I've been drinking a drink made with full cream milk, double cream, and pure cocoa which helps with the chocolate cravings... But nothing seems to replace the ice cream... I've stopped all sugar for about 8 days now.... Perhaps just more time?

Another Giant vote, but, I'd go for the Trance to replace the SC TB.... With the bits you're talking about, it'll be unstoppable. (especially with a dropper)

These guys are great, and very reasonably priced!

I set my dual sus to descend permanently on you Giant Anthem x 1, and only get. Bobbing if I stand up to climb. Climb seated, and it's fantastic. Having said that, I've never ridden a hard tail, so I don't know what I'm missing......

The only way I currently fit training in is to commute to work and back, or wake up at 4am to do longer rides. Every Saturday morning for a long ride, but this is starting to become a problem with the family...

Standard insurance should cover you for a fall. I was covered for a new set of brakes after falling and damaging mine in a rock garden. Pity insurance can't make it hurt less...