The utterings and mutterings of me

New Sprint Spikes!

2011-02-25T19:53:00.000Z

First off... it's been a while, sorry about that. I will be trying to post more frequently in the upcoming weeks :)

Ordered some of these bad boys off the internet the other day (Saucony mens showdown) :

They look SAWEEEET! As well as being amazingly light, as if you are running in socks. They are comfortable (apart from one little niggle which we'll get to in a bit) which can sometimes be a compromise when trying to make the lightest spike - but not in this case. The fastening system consists of laces under a zip, which is then secured by a Velcro cover - no chance of them coming undone then!

The spike plate holds 10, which i've never experienced until now. Don't think i've noticed a particular traction boost over my old 7 spike, but they look all the more aggressive with the extra spikes that's for sure!

Now that little niggle i was talking about... when in full sprint i noticed the outerside of my foot was being cut into by the spike. This is due to my foot sitting too low in the spike, so a bit of DIY was in order:

The answer^ Foam. Cut to the shape of the heel to fit snugly in the shoe. Raises my foot that vital amount to clear the area that was giving me grief, so chuffed!

Feeling reasonably quick, will see what PBs the season brings with these babys on my toes ;)

The bike, a few pics

2010-10-08T16:06:00.000+01:00

Put some bits together the other day; Fork, shock, cranks, dérailleur, handlebar/stem and shitfers.

The bike as it is so far.

A close up of the side of the fork (Marzocchi Drop Off 4 air-fork)

Slight scuff mark on the decal :(

Shock fitted by http://www.cycle-world.co.uk/ would recommend them.

Hopefully i'll get a few more parts to add over the next week

Simply Spectacular..

2010-10-01T22:23:00.000+01:00

Check out this video...

Hell yeah! Especially the tree-backflip.... He's got real skill.

He grew up on the Isle of Skye, he must have been biking all day everyday to get that good!

Insane!

2010-09-29T17:20:00.000+01:00

Just found this video.... That must take guts! Bit of a nasty landing, but looks as though he knew he couldn't hang around before coppers were after him!

Santa Cruz Bullit Custom

2010-09-29T16:20:00.000+01:00

Right in the middle of a SantaCruz custom bike build at the moment, will have a fantastic bike by the end of it... (just not a so fantastic bank statement!)

Should hopefully look something like this when it's finished;

Just need to get some wheels and brakes... i'm thinking Avid Elixir 5s.. anyone know much about these?

Can't wait to throw this thing downhill when it's completed!

Innerleithen XC

2010-09-28T16:23:00.000+01:00


Pic taken from top of the Minch Moor ascent.

"The red-graded Innerleithen XC route is a cracking trail and provides a great alternative to its busier sister at Glentress, the Red Route. There is plenty of climbing involved but it's well worth it, as the descents are stunning and varied - fast flowing singletrack packed full of jumps, rock features and berms, followed by tighter more technical riding, then a fantastic freeride finish at Cadon Bank."

This isn't an easy going cross-country trail. You need to be well prepared and have a high level of stamina. The first half of the 19km run is up hill and unrelenting. Just as you're quads are about to give up on you, you'll need to be able to negotiate rocksteps which take even more out of your legs. (and occasionally your front chain ring as well!).

However, don't let this put you off. As there is much to be gained in return for your uphill efforts. The Minch Moor decent is one you'll never forget.

I would say this is a fairly mild red as far as technical features are concerned. But make sure you're up for the long slog at the start!

Kirkhill Mountain Biking

2010-09-27T18:59:00.000+01:00

"Kirkhill Mountain Bike Park is a great introduction to mountain biking. Ride this short section of trail with its range of technically challenging features - jumps, bumps, berms, switchbacks and more. Its bound to keep you entertained for hours!

The trail starts with a gentle climb through mature conifer woodland before descending across open ground crossing many features designed to help you perfect your biking skills."

Recommended bike gear
A mountainbike (duh) it doesn't have to be suspended as the trail is smooth and hard-packed. However suspension will help you if you plan to do the cross country trails in the area. Make sure your brakes work! Discs recommended. Helmets are a must.

Directions
The Turning into the forest is about 2.5 miles past bucksburn on the A96 going west.