km 12440.4

Notes from July 23:

km 12097

replaced freewheel with Shimano MF-Z scavenged from the wreck of a child's bicycle. This way keep the Suntour freewheel perfect.

front tyre cords finally letting go, making thumping noises on fender struts as it rotated.

replaced with item from spares - Bontrager Jones ACX 26x2.2 aramid bead (props to DT!)

in the process:

found two 26x1.5 Specialized aramadillo tyres where sidewalls were giving out -so-
cut out bead from Specialized ones to turn them into tyre liners under the 26x2's
and fill them with 26x1.5 tubes (MEC item # 8653 $3).

ride is a bit rough when they are up to 60psi, kinda of like a bumpy road even on smooth pavement. - however - no punctures yet (knocking on wood).

Notes from today August 14:

overall - rig running quite right

metal brackety thingie holding rear blinky light rusted through - replaced it today

inner tube holding lock on luggage carrier a bit chewed - replaced it today

noted wear and tear on brake surface on front wheel - feels kinda groovy

chain wear still reading as fresh - somewhere near .55% over original length.

looking forward to Planet Bike Blaze 2W being released in Sept 09.

interesting project on the go by a guy named Dave - check out: www.beaterbikes.ca

still have yet to repack bearings in front hub since april 2006 at km1342, when the dropouts were aligned and the front cones adjusted - even Falcon brand hubs can go far in proper adjustment!