Thursday, March 19, 2009

CUBE: Single Speed Version

Finally got my commute bike up! First ever Single Speed bike i own, also built it using most of the reusable parts i have. Instead of the usual bike layout to show off the spec of my bikes. I like to thanks the people whom contribute to me with their parts.

Frame & Tires: Got from the previous CUBE project, which turns out that i don't really enjoy the geometry as its too upright.
Fork: Got 2nd hand from Togoparts, $80. Aluminum steerer, which is not what i really wanted. But the decals seems to really suits the bike color theme.
Wheels: Thanks to Wilson giving to me his condemn wheelset, which has a dent on the front wheels. Take it as the trade for a newer wheels and pedal.
Crank, Pedals and Seatpost: Thanks to Coach for giving me her sentimental bike parts. Really old school, like them. Especially the crank!
Headset and Seat Clamp: Got them from Identiti bike after i stripped them off.
Bottom Bracket and Brake Levers: Thanks Mr Teo for giving them to me. Have some problem with the BB, as the thread on the left cap is wore off. Found a replacement from Seng Chu Hin bikeshop
Brakes: Thanks to Caine. Its comes with the Trek bike which i built for him few years back. Now back to my bike!
Saddle and Stem: Got them off from previous bike deals, namely the Polygon and Kestrel

With just a few contributions from everybody, things can be done!
So whats next? Was toying with this idea of refurbishing a old rusty road bike into SS. Check this out!

My first test ride on this SS
Had 2 chain skip in a single ride, in different scenarios. Chain is loose as we can see from the picture. Currently using 14T cog, plan to change it to a 15T. Hopefully will make the chain more torque.

Actually chances of the chain skipping out is pretty slim. Found that for the chain to skip out, first, there must be no pedaling, hence chain is not torque. Secondly, riding pass a bumpy section of the road. This is what happen in the first scenario, was cruising down a slope along kaki bukit(no pedaling) and went pass this lousy road work (bumpy). Next thing i know, im spinning like mad!

Second scenario is i think something along the drivetrain got loose, causing lateral vibration/movement. Resulting in the chain self derailing from the drivetrain. Stupid SS converter does not have 'teeth' for the lock ring to catch on, hence might loosen after a few bumpy ride.

Other than these 2 incidents. I find that riding on SS in relaxing, momentum from the constant spinning actually allows us to ride/feel faster. 'Thanks' to the number of traffic lights and 'safe' motorist and other road users, i cant really enjoy the ride... Also one reason why I'm not planning for a Fixie yet..


Bike Doctor
C Cube

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Polygon Helios 600



Frame Polygon Helios 600
Fork Polygon Helios 600
Rear Shock N/A
Rims Shimano Ultegra
Hubs Shimano Ultegra
Spokes Shimano Ultegra
Tires Vredestein Fortezza
Pedals Shimano Ultegra SL
Crank Shimano Dura-ace 10spd
Chain Shimano Ultegra 10spd
Rear Cogs Shimano Ultegra 10spd
Bottom Bracket Shimano Ultegra SL 10spd
Front Derailleur Shimano Ultegra SL 10spd
Rear Derailleur Shimano Ultegra SL 10spd
Shifters Shimano Ultegra 10spd
Handlebars Pro Carbon (Integrated)
Stem Pro Carbon (Integrated)
Headset N/A
Brakeset Token Accura
Brakelevers Shimano Ultegra 10spd
Saddle San Marco Aspide Arrowhead
Seat Post Pro Carbon
Sizes 50cm
Extras Hand Pump and Rear Blinker

Another super value for money bike which i got 2nd hand online. However this bike still seems to be too big for my liking although i can fit onto it. Handlebar is 44cm wide, Stem is 11cm which explain why i need to stretch out more, straining my back. Still prefer smaller frame size like 48cm. Compact, small, nice to maneuver around.