Subtle Changes

Change is often scary, but it also presents opportunities. Steve is preparing to leave for a big, heavily laden bike adventure, leaving me in control as a benevolent dictator. Riding- the wonder, challenges, frustration, occasional heartache and joy are arguably metaphors for life. I'm planning a few minor tweaks here and there but will be sticking to our founding values. Impartial and thorough product testing, workshop features, rebuilds, refurbs and related stuff will remain the primary focus.  In the pipeline, we've reviews of Sigma Nyte70 and their Nyte Clip rear safety lights.

The Nyte70 includes not one, but two braking modes- one for general slowing, the other a more intense light for hard braking and emergency stops. There's a good selection of modes and outputs to, so looks to cater for most riding contexts. The Nyte clip is designed as a s secondary safety light for riding but also other outdoor activities. No braking functions, but it still packs a mighty punch. Both have several, secure mounting options-including saddle rails so won't spoil the clean lines of a pared to the essentials plaything, or TT missile.

Elsewhere, there's lube. Muc-Off has sent me their Dark Energy Chain Wax, which they tell me is "Formulated to maximise efficiency, durability and low wear in a single dropper wax, delivering a clean, fast and quiet drivetrain".  Again, formative impressions are very favourable in the typically changeable early season weather, and I'm on course to meet the 300 miles per application suggested.

Waxes, though renown for being clean also require surgically clean drivetrains. Solvent-based products tend to melt existing waxes, so I've traditionally left chains, rings and cassettes marinating in the parts washer. Muc-Off also sent me their Chain Wax Cleaner.  This is apparently optimised for waxed chains, promising to break down wax build up prior to topping up, priming packet-fresh chains treated to the tenacious factory lube, or switching from an oil-based middleweight lube to wax, for example. I'm not from an engineering background, but have always been curious.

Elsewhere, I'll be reflecting on Ursula's renovations and modernisation 15 months or so on . What I love, what I've refined, what's next. I've a few plans, but will be resisting any significant changes until perfectly good components near retirement. At least that's the plan....

Michael