tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-183066462024-03-14T13:52:26.442+08:00Pedal! Damn it!There is nothing like
the trail before us,
the day ahead of us,
the dust behind us,
and life upon us...-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.comBlogger241125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-4961286818639807332010-03-20T18:45:00.003+08:002010-03-20T18:54:06.533+08:00But, still, the bicycles rolled<br><br />A little reading for a rainy Saturday...<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-fg-bicycle-man15-2010mar15,0,269128.story' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6SoEZ4ghxI/AAAAAAAAMr4/79nTmnicNeA/s400/AbdulHibibAfghanistan.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450666242645985042" /></a><br />(Picture credit: Mohammad Karim Faiez)<br /><br />The bicycle man prefers working in the sun, sitting on a cushion nailed to a wooden block, stretching out his right leg, the one with a missing foot, taken years ago in that instant when a man's life veers another way.<br /><br />Abdul Hibib has been fixing bicycles for almost 30 years. His hands are quick, clicking gears, moving across spokes as if he's plucking a harp. So much worn rubber and troubled history have rolled past him. His country tumbled from war to war while he tinkered with bicycles, outlasting the Soviets, surviving the Taliban.<br /><br />[ . . . ]<br /><br />He grasps a bent rim, breathing lightly, the sun in his gray-black beard, his hands a diary of scrapes and cuts, seldom resting. He twirls the rim; it wobbles and he stops it, bending it some more and then spinning it again, hypnotic almost, the blur of rust and steel.<br /><br />(Fleishmann, Jeffrey. "Fixing what he can in Afghanistan." <span style="font-style: italic;">Los Angeles Times</span> 15 Mar. 2010. <a href='http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-fg-bicycle-man15-2010mar15,0,269128.story' target="_blank">20 Mar. 2010.</a>)<br /><br /><br />Read the rest <a href='http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-fg-bicycle-man15-2010mar15,0,269128.story' target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-1199405472482393392010-03-17T20:00:00.007+08:002010-03-18T23:10:58.359+08:00Some call(ed) me "Peter Pan"<br><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6DFPR23EfI/AAAAAAAAMrY/7MiRCY-xa_Y/s1600-h/1991StraitsTimesLifeArticle.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6EeAp-s4RI/AAAAAAAAMrs/q6BId_62GfI/s400/1991StraitsTimesLifePic1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449670020712685842" /></a><br />This was taken, oh, 19 years ago when I was 17 years <strike>old</strike> <span style="font-style: italic;">young</span>.<br />Click <a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6DFPR23EfI/AAAAAAAAMrY/7MiRCY-xa_Y/s1600-h/1991StraitsTimesLifeArticle.jpg' target="_blank">here</a> or on the image for the cheeky news article.<br /><br />A <a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Szo2ZbGSzrI/AAAAAAAALhk/a_mYstcYsOA/s1600-h/BenAndKitty.jpg' target="_blank">more recent pic</a> at 36 years <strike>old</strike> <span style="font-style: italic;">young</span>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6DFOJh1InI/AAAAAAAAMrQ/D2n898FFwsU/s1600-h/IMG_1706C.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S6DFOJh1InI/AAAAAAAAMrQ/D2n898FFwsU/s400/IMG_1706C.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449572395984953970" /></a><br />Of course, these same <strike>people</strike> <strike>dream-killers</strike> ghouls are languishing in mid-life crises now.<br /><br />I, too, am no angel, far from perfect; here's perdition: here, hear me gloat:<br /><br /><strike>Hey, how are the high-blood pressure, pre-diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, high cholesterol, congestive heart failure, medications coming along? How many gallons of Botox are you using per day?</strike><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>[T]<span style="font-style: italic;">he consolations of history, thus, turns out to be especially satisfying</span>[...]<span style="font-style: italic;">, for time humbles those who once humbled others.</span><br /></blockquote> (Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul)<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-40013222870066391192010-02-19T16:23:00.004+08:002010-02-23T20:45:50.199+08:00NicIz2hardkore's SS Shoulder Upgrade<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OSA3MR44I/AAAAAAAAMZM/_f7REUQ-fwM/s1600-h/NicKat.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OSA3MR44I/AAAAAAAAMZM/_f7REUQ-fwM/s400/NicKat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441353318306800514" /></a><br />After 2 <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2009/02/nic-conquers-vigilante-drive-on-fixie.html' target="_blank">impacts with Mount Faber, and head-butting a NTUC Comfort Del Gro taxi cab</a>, it was time to upgrade <a href='http://fotologue.jp/plastyc' target="_blank">NicIz2HardKore</a>'s right shoulder with hardier components <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.orthogate.org/patient-education/shoulder/labral-tears.html' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OSAqcaGrI/AAAAAAAAMZE/haFkmvvHWC0/s400/ArthroscopicRepairShoulder.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441353314884786866" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OSANEd5ZI/AAAAAAAAMY8/WfiGDvWgyW4/s1600-h/NicShoulderSurgery.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OSANEd5ZI/AAAAAAAAMY8/WfiGDvWgyW4/s400/NicShoulderSurgery.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441353306999743890" /></a><br />More info (and comments) <a href='http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5204288&l=4703baf0b1&id=654725049' target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OR_1VcxzI/AAAAAAAAMY0/CdThfWR9IkI/s1600-h/IMG_1610.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OR_1VcxzI/AAAAAAAAMY0/CdThfWR9IkI/s400/IMG_1610.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441353300628522802" /></a><br />He's got a DVD of the operation too!<br /><br />The surgeon used stainless steel anchors, wires, and Kevlar cord on the 2HardKore <span style="font-weight: bold;">0_o</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/a-hu_lyjzTY&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/a-hu_lyjzTY&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Part 1.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/V1qofx5-9Pk&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/V1qofx5-9Pk&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Part 2.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qpHdcolA_lE&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qpHdcolA_lE&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Part 3.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OR_IhG1FI/AAAAAAAAMYs/Tw5spSwWEb8/s1600-h/IMG_1606.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OR_IhG1FI/AAAAAAAAMYs/Tw5spSwWEb8/s400/IMG_1606.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441353288597820498" /></a><br /> *Ding-dong!*<br /><br /> Home delivery of...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT7YfX7mI/AAAAAAAAMZw/5R4pI2WoEDg/s1600-h/IMG_1607.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT7YfX7mI/AAAAAAAAMZw/5R4pI2WoEDg/s400/IMG_1607.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441355423189298786" /></a><br /> ...a pound of flesh from <a href='http://www.wendys.com' target="_blank">Wendy's</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT63yEMII/AAAAAAAAMZo/mZm1A2WBdbY/s1600-h/IMG_1609.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT63yEMII/AAAAAAAAMZo/mZm1A2WBdbY/s400/IMG_1609.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441355414409326722" /></a><br /><a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_jOd9ohHGE' target="_blank">Om nom nom nom nom</a>...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT6ehcUcI/AAAAAAAAMZg/OyxiXVoirL8/s1600-h/IMG_1608.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT6ehcUcI/AAAAAAAAMZg/OyxiXVoirL8/s400/IMG_1608.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441355407628718530" /></a><br />Ambidextrous Nic makes it look easy.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT5fePiFI/AAAAAAAAMZY/4hvPhBE5E9s/s1600-h/IMG_1613.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OT5fePiFI/AAAAAAAAMZY/4hvPhBE5E9s/s400/IMG_1613.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441355390703863890" /></a><br />After he was done with the 1 pound burger, he's presented with a tub of Wendy's <a href='http://www.wendys.com/food/Product.jsp?family=7&product=28' target="_blank">Beef Chili</a> — large <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-D</span><br /><br /><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;">You're kidding, right?</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OUdZCbjjI/AAAAAAAAMZ8/kxFAK7ZCKdg/s1600-h/IMG_1623.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OUdZCbjjI/AAAAAAAAMZ8/kxFAK7ZCKdg/s400/IMG_1623.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441356007451889202" /></a><br />Spacing out after beef-overload.<br /><br />I think there's enough room to hide a <a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/RxMNWm6HDsI/AAAAAAAACtM/03ucD-BIb68/s1600-h/IMG_5833.JPG' target="_blank">breaker bar</a> or <a href='http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=4&item=SR%2D2' target="_blank">chain whip</a> in that sling...<br /><br />Heal up quick and <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/04/feasts-on-pavement-chews-dirt-demands.html' target="_blank">kick more butts, Nic!</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4PMeH00K0I/AAAAAAAAMaI/ecHMeKLB0DQ/s1600-h/Humerus.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4PMeH00K0I/AAAAAAAAMaI/ecHMeKLB0DQ/s400/Humerus.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441417592662403906" /></a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-22957074687423505692010-02-12T23:03:00.001+08:002010-02-23T16:22:20.745+08:00Sprint. Sprint. Pop. Crash!<br><br />Or, that's how Bertram described <a href='http://fotologue.jp/plastyc' target="_blank">NicIz2HardKore</a>'s most recent crash:<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMuW_5SmI/AAAAAAAAMX8/R8YX7QNcM98/s1600-h/IMG_1615.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMuW_5SmI/AAAAAAAAMX8/R8YX7QNcM98/s400/IMG_1615.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441347502869138018" /></a><br />Nic was just riding along, minding his own business, past the <a href='http://www.esplanade.com' target="_blank">Esplanade</a> when the front tire of his <a href='http://www.cannondale.com' target="_blank">Cannondale</a> suddenly popped. As he struggled to control the sudden deceleration, Commissar A Dumb LardButt (the lesser known, more officious, way less photogenic, non-talented twin of <a href='http://www.adamofficial.com/us/home' target="_blank">Adam Lambert</a>) waddled by on his Tomac <a href='http://www.tomac.com/bikes/carbide-sl.php' target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Kar Pai</span></a> — after consuming 2.3 metric tons of brownies; the ensuing gravity well caused the Cannondale's rear wheel to come off...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMt0on6UI/AAAAAAAAMX0/HqvQXrEwvQ0/s1600-h/IMG_1616.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMt0on6UI/AAAAAAAAMX0/HqvQXrEwvQ0/s400/IMG_1616.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441347493644724546" /></a><br />Drive-side <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shifter_(bicycle_part)#Brake.2FShift_Levers' target="_blank">brifter</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMtFvMIMI/AAAAAAAAMXs/E6ZFbQC-wsw/s1600-h/IMG_1617.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMtFvMIMI/AAAAAAAAMXs/E6ZFbQC-wsw/s400/IMG_1617.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441347481055797442" /></a><br />I wonder how carbon fiber would fare here.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMsMA_JwI/AAAAAAAAMXk/WcQGmfcCMNI/s1600-h/IMG_1618.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4OMsMA_JwI/AAAAAAAAMXk/WcQGmfcCMNI/s400/IMG_1618.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441347465561188098" /></a><br />Non-drive-side brifter.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONn5BzRjI/AAAAAAAAMYg/dOb0RDB9AP4/s1600-h/IMG_1614.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONn5BzRjI/AAAAAAAAMYg/dOb0RDB9AP4/s400/IMG_1614.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441348491256481330" /></a><br /><a href='http://www.competitivecyclist.com/road-bikes/review-saddle/Selle-San-Marco-Regal-Titanium_595.html' target="_blank">Sella San Marco Regal Titanium</a> Saddle. *sob!*<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONnP6Q7MI/AAAAAAAAMYY/pERdrom_MR4/s1600-h/IMG_1619.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONnP6Q7MI/AAAAAAAAMYY/pERdrom_MR4/s400/IMG_1619.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441348480219016386" /></a><br />Damage to the Cannondale: scored brifters and surprisingly little scratching to the frame. The saddle is totaled though — in addition to the torn leather, the rails are bent.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONmr3uloI/AAAAAAAAMYQ/5v20gW_XDas/s1600-h/IMG_1621.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONmr3uloI/AAAAAAAAMYQ/5v20gW_XDas/s400/IMG_1621.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441348470544701058" /></a><br />Damage to the engine.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONmBtD7RI/AAAAAAAAMYI/cs7JdRYjLQM/s1600-h/IMG_1622.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S4ONmBtD7RI/AAAAAAAAMYI/cs7JdRYjLQM/s400/IMG_1622.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441348459225672978" /></a><br />From <span style="font-style: italic;">The Unauthorized Bicycle Repair Manual</span>:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Engine Repair</span><br /><br />Step 1: Drink Beer.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">:-) :-D :-P</span><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-82277709009945609772010-02-06T04:00:00.004+08:002010-02-08T03:08:38.196+08:00Jetboil Personal Cooking System: Remote Canister Stands and Adaptors<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v10PGIkEI/AAAAAAAAL9Y/yff3EJB41G4/s1600-h/IMG_1512.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v10PGIkEI/AAAAAAAAL9Y/yff3EJB41G4/s400/IMG_1512.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434707653106896962" /></a><br />My 1st generation Jetboil <a href='http://www.jetboil.com/node/10' target="_blank">Personal Cooking System (PCS)</a> has served me reliably for almost half a decade.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1zs_ec9I/AAAAAAAAL9Q/cWH3DuZ9rio/s1600-h/JetBoilPCS_Parts_and_Size.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1zs_ec9I/AAAAAAAAL9Q/cWH3DuZ9rio/s400/JetBoilPCS_Parts_and_Size.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434707643952165842" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1zcm7hwI/AAAAAAAAL9I/WPGbNC6Sgfc/s1600-h/IMG_1577.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1zcm7hwI/AAAAAAAAL9I/WPGbNC6Sgfc/s400/IMG_1577.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434707639554246402" /></a><br />Basically a modern day Billycan that's self-contained with stove and fuel, it's a piece of gear that's highly compact, fairly robust, and acceptably light. (Sure, the <a href='http://www.cascadedesigns.com/MSR/Stoves/Fast-And-Light-Stoves/Reactor/product' target="_blank">MSR Reactor</a> is <a href='http://www.livefortheoutdoors.com/Videos/Search-Results/Camping--backpacking/MSR-Reactor-vs-Jetboil' target="_blank">more wind-resistant, more efficient, and possesses better ergonomics</a> — e.g. ability to lift pot off the stove if it boils over to shut the valve — but it is also larger, weighs more, and is overkill for the solo bicycle tourer, <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2006/02/mount-hamilton-snow-ride.html' target="_blank">all-day Camelbak H.A.W.G. rides</a>, and daypack hiker.)<br /><br />Now, if I were to engage in <a href='http://www.ukgser.com/forums/showpost.php?s=aed28d97ab4d2f817d1ffe84cd1971bb&p=1835210&postcount=19' target="_blank">the other type of bike touring</a>, the MSR Reactor would be a no-brainer.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.google.com/translate?u=http://beyondx.exblog.jp/8746055/&langpair=ja|en&hl=en&ie=UTF8' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1y5o-knI/AAAAAAAAL9A/XrdelxbCU9w/s400/JetBoilShorty.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434707630167593586" /></a><br />In fact, someone in Japan actually made his Jetboil even <a href='http://www.google.com/translate?u=http://beyondx.exblog.jp/8746055/&langpair=ja|en&hl=en&ie=UTF8' target="_blank">smaller and lighter</a>. I guess weight weenies exist everywhere <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-D</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1yei09WI/AAAAAAAAL84/EiFf4ui8jgw/s1600-h/JetBoilAdaptorStand.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v1yei09WI/AAAAAAAAL84/EiFf4ui8jgw/s400/JetBoilAdaptorStand.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434707622894040418" /></a><br />Among the plethora of accessories available for the JetBoil <a href='http://www.jetboil.com/node/10' target="_blank">PCS</a> (and the newer <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/flash.html' target="_blank">Flash</a>) are the <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/pot-supporter-and-stabilizer.html' target="_blank">pot stabilizer</a> (increasing stability), and the <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/pot-supporter-and-stabilizer.html' target="_blank">pot supporter</a> (allowing the use of generic pots and pans).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.lindalgroup.com/en.product.php?id=6' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2sPtBvpI/AAAAAAAAL-A/HEoiCKMvjC8/s400/LindalEN417_716NS.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434708615342702226" /></a><br />The JetBoil (and MSR Reactor) utilize a <a href='http://www.lindalgroup.com/en.product.php?id=6' target="_blank">female Lindal 7/16 NS</a> threaded valve, following <a href='http://www.standardsdirect.org/standards/standards1/StandardsCatalogue24_view_13911.html' target="_blank">EN417 specifications</a>.<br /><br />Sometimes, however, female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded valve gas canisters are either hard to find / unavailable (Singapore and Malaysia), or much more expensive (Western Australia).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2rxc1d9I/AAAAAAAAL94/WFccnaWsvVw/s1600-h/IMG_1513.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2rxc1d9I/AAAAAAAAL94/WFccnaWsvVw/s400/IMG_1513.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434708607221725138" /></a><br />This is where a little more versatility in gas canister interface is desirable.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2rUzWcfI/AAAAAAAAL9w/LXEDq2cE_JY/s1600-h/CP250Stove.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2rUzWcfI/AAAAAAAAL9w/LXEDq2cE_JY/s400/CP250Stove.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434708599531532786" /></a><br /><a href='http://www.campingaz.com/p-22855-cp-250.aspx' target="_blank">CP250 gas canisters</a> or "Spray Can Valve Gas Canisters" are commonly used in Singapore and Malaysia for tabletop / vehicle-portable gas stoves. Weighing about 358 grams each, and filled with 250 grams of butane, they are also used for blowtorches in workshops and kitchens (e.g. for crème brûlée).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2qyzk7gI/AAAAAAAAL9o/quW-wsitEDc/s1600-h/CP250.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2qyzk7gI/AAAAAAAAL9o/quW-wsitEDc/s400/CP250.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434708590405676546" /></a><br />The CP250 valve is also known as the CP Twist Fit Bayonet.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2qSfnOFI/AAAAAAAAL9g/poBmOozZYHI/s1600-h/IMG_1514.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v2qSfnOFI/AAAAAAAAL9g/poBmOozZYHI/s400/IMG_1514.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434708581732005970" /></a><br />To use the CP250 gas canisters, an adaptor is required. Hon Shin bought a pair of these adaptors a couple of years back and handed me one to try out with the Jetboil PCS. As they vary widely in price, do shop around.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v37coSHDI/AAAAAAAAL-o/Lh7WZerLrwo/s1600-h/IMG_1516.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v37coSHDI/AAAAAAAAL-o/Lh7WZerLrwo/s400/IMG_1516.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434709976022129714" /></a><br />The side that interfaces the gas canister.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v37GPBzVI/AAAAAAAAL-g/NYLWvUDnkVs/s1600-h/CP250Adaptor_CE020PVC.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v37GPBzVI/AAAAAAAAL-g/NYLWvUDnkVs/s400/CP250Adaptor_CE020PVC.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434709970010623314" /></a><br />The <a href='http://www.aliexpress.com/product-gs/245819292-CE-020-Adapter-Nozzle-Gas-Bottle-Screw-gate-Camping-Stove-Gear-wholesalers.html' target="_blank">CE020 Adaptor</a> is made of PVC and aluminum, and held together by 2 steel screws. I have not disassembled the unit but it appears not to utilize any o-rings.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v36ldN8kI/AAAAAAAAL-Y/MZB3z1u9AxM/s1600-h/IMG_1519.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v36ldN8kI/AAAAAAAAL-Y/MZB3z1u9AxM/s400/IMG_1519.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434709961211769410" /></a><br />As this adaptor lacks a gas flow control valve of any sort, unless you are planning on self-immolation and/or contending for the 2010 <a href='http://www.darwinawards.com' target="_blank">Darwin Awards</a>, inserting a CP250 gas canister into it without priorly attaching a gas flow control valve is a bad idea. Bonus points awarded if you attempt this near smokers, other <span style="font-style: italic;">operating</span> stoves, or a roaring campfire.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v36awgZ4I/AAAAAAAAL-Q/R1Aeg-Rn2OI/s1600-h/IMG_1521.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v36awgZ4I/AAAAAAAAL-Q/R1Aeg-Rn2OI/s400/IMG_1521.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434709958339880834" /></a><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">Anyone who denies the law of non-contradiction should be beaten and burned until he admits that to be beaten is not the same as not to be beaten, and to be burned is not the same as not to be burned.</span><br /></blockquote> <br />Agree with Avicenna, the JetBoil stove has a gas flow control valve — use it.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v354HtlsI/AAAAAAAAL-I/mXQxWbCaAJE/s1600-h/IMG_1520.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v354HtlsI/AAAAAAAAL-I/mXQxWbCaAJE/s400/IMG_1520.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434709949041972930" /></a><br />Screw the CE020 Adaptor into the Jetboil stove as you would a regular threaded gas canister. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Note:</span> This works for the JetBoil <a href='http://www.jetboil.com/node/10' target="_blank">PCS</a>. I have not tried this with the newer JetBoil <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/flash.html' target="_blank">Flash</a> yet, but the <a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/gearactive/3960059022/' target="_blank">new valve</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">appears</span> compatible, your mileage may vary.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v43HULpXI/AAAAAAAAL_Q/ddRoAhsmtlE/s1600-h/IMG_1522.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v43HULpXI/AAAAAAAAL_Q/ddRoAhsmtlE/s400/IMG_1522.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434711001092826482" /></a><br />CE020 Adaptor installed.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42xd2O7I/AAAAAAAAL_I/d3eIXlLTTXM/s1600-h/IMG_1523.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42xd2O7I/AAAAAAAAL_I/d3eIXlLTTXM/s400/IMG_1523.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434710995227786162" /></a><br />Lower the assembly onto the CP250 gas canister, aligning the outer protrusion of the CE020 Adaptor with the notch on the collar of the CP250 gas canister.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42bRxdHI/AAAAAAAAL_A/qyxJSGKterg/s1600-h/IMG_1524.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42bRxdHI/AAAAAAAAL_A/qyxJSGKterg/s400/IMG_1524.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434710989271561330" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42I_jWHI/AAAAAAAAL-4/9Ah7fLeMRnc/s1600-h/IMG_1525.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v42I_jWHI/AAAAAAAAL-4/9Ah7fLeMRnc/s400/IMG_1525.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434710984363300978" /></a><br />With the assembly fully seated, grasp the knurled part of the CE020 Adaptor and rotate the CP250 gas canister counter- clockwise to lock it into place.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v41_Fq0SI/AAAAAAAAL-w/h0xL6N92tQU/s1600-h/IMG_1527.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v41_Fq0SI/AAAAAAAAL-w/h0xL6N92tQU/s400/IMG_1527.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434710981704601890" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6Ytp9YnI/AAAAAAAAL_4/5hQuORI95NY/s1600-h/IMG_1529.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6Ytp9YnI/AAAAAAAAL_4/5hQuORI95NY/s400/IMG_1529.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434712677832024690" /></a><br />This was how I use my Jetboil on my rides (and hikes) in <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/09/thailand-to-singapore-via-east-coast-of_20.html' target="_blank">Malaysia</a> and Singapore. A cursory look would surmise that stability is an issue.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6YRyW-AI/AAAAAAAAL_w/KCbLvO1DThI/s1600-h/IMG_1551.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6YRyW-AI/AAAAAAAAL_w/KCbLvO1DThI/s400/IMG_1551.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434712670351063042" /></a><br />Enter the <a href='http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=596' target="_blank">Brunton Canister Stove Stand</a>, courtesy of <a href='http://backoftheenvelope.blogspot.com' target="_blank">Mr. E</a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-)</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6Xx3xwOI/AAAAAAAAL_o/__7urH3Qiv0/s1600-h/IMG_1552.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6Xx3xwOI/AAAAAAAAL_o/__7urH3Qiv0/s400/IMG_1552.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434712661783855330" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6XXDYcUI/AAAAAAAAL_g/haygPloFQN4/s1600-h/IMG_1558.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6XXDYcUI/AAAAAAAAL_g/haygPloFQN4/s400/IMG_1558.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434712654584770882" /></a><br />Coiled up and folded. Looks good enough to be jewelry, stick it up your nose.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6XFkepGI/AAAAAAAAL_Y/k1xTsgyTuyg/s1600-h/IMG_1532.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v6XFkepGI/AAAAAAAAL_Y/k1xTsgyTuyg/s400/IMG_1532.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434712649891751010" /></a><br />The Brunton Canister Stove Stand has male and female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded fittings on it.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7j7dq_ZI/AAAAAAAAMAg/cYoa4Me2j8Y/s1600-h/IMG_1534.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7j7dq_ZI/AAAAAAAAMAg/cYoa4Me2j8Y/s400/IMG_1534.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434713970028772754" /></a><br />Ensuring that the gas flow valve on the Jetboil stove is shut, thread the stove onto the Brunton Canister Stove Stand as you would with a regular gas canister.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Note:</span> This works for the Jetboil <a href='http://www.jetboil.com/node/10' target="_blank">PCS</a>. I have not tried this with the newer Jetboil <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/flash.html' target="_blank">Flash</a> yet, but the <a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/gearactive/3960059022/' target="_blank">new valve</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">appears</span> compatible, your mileage may vary.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7jZAW0WI/AAAAAAAAMAY/QCT41ih1muY/s1600-h/IMG_1535.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7jZAW0WI/AAAAAAAAMAY/QCT41ih1muY/s400/IMG_1535.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434713960779010402" /></a><br />Gas stove seated.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7jGf5i1I/AAAAAAAAMAQ/8Cp1oKbW5wE/s1600-h/IMG_1536.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7jGf5i1I/AAAAAAAAMAQ/8Cp1oKbW5wE/s400/IMG_1536.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434713955811035986" /></a><br />Ensuring that the adjustable gas flow valve (small black knob) is shut, thread the CE020 Adaptor onto the other end of the Brunton Canister Stove Stand.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7ittMWQI/AAAAAAAAMAI/SjLUyaotw4A/s1600-h/IMG_1537.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7ittMWQI/AAAAAAAAMAI/SjLUyaotw4A/s400/IMG_1537.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434713949155907842" /></a><br />CE020 Adaptor installed.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7iVLSqUI/AAAAAAAAMAA/v8U4xvK-8GE/s1600-h/IMG_1538.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v7iVLSqUI/AAAAAAAAMAA/v8U4xvK-8GE/s400/IMG_1538.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434713942571264322" /></a><br />Insert CP250 gas canister into CE020 / Brunton Canister Stove Stand assembly.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8aXV_wgI/AAAAAAAAMBI/5iwy810sKEo/s1600-h/IMG_1539.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8aXV_wgI/AAAAAAAAMBI/5iwy810sKEo/s400/IMG_1539.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434714905225708034" /></a><br />As before, align the outer protrusion of the CE020 Adaptor with the notch on the collar of the CP250 gas canister.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8aO5xTbI/AAAAAAAAMBA/axULIkdqbIM/s1600-h/IMG_1540.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8aO5xTbI/AAAAAAAAMBA/axULIkdqbIM/s400/IMG_1540.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434714902959836594" /></a><br />Grasping the knurled part of the CE020 Adaptor, rotate the CP250 gas canister counter-clockwise to lock the assembly in place.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8ZuTE7WI/AAAAAAAAMA4/iQijydJsk7I/s1600-h/IMG_1542.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8ZuTE7WI/AAAAAAAAMA4/iQijydJsk7I/s400/IMG_1542.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434714894207610210" /></a><br />Owing to the absence of a side stand on the CE020 Adaptor — which orientates the gas canister in a <span style="font-style: italic;">specific</span> position so that the pick up tube inside the canister is pointed up, feeding butane vapor to the stove, and not liquid butane — the CP250 gas canister must <span style="font-weight: bold;">NOT</span> be used lying on its side in this configuration. <br /><br />Now, if you want your Jetboil to spit fireballs...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8ZYvdDSI/AAAAAAAAMAw/qnTTZpBQcTA/s1600-h/IMG_1546.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8ZYvdDSI/AAAAAAAAMAw/qnTTZpBQcTA/s400/IMG_1546.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434714888421051682" /></a><br />With a wider base and a lower center of gravity, this set up is much more stable. Wind is also less of an issue with the stove sitting lower on the ground.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8Y4rSXBI/AAAAAAAAMAo/OLch8nZB0iM/s1600-h/IMG_1547.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v8Y4rSXBI/AAAAAAAAMAo/OLch8nZB0iM/s400/IMG_1547.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434714879813639186" /></a><br />The Brunton Canister Stove Stand also includes an aluminum windscreen.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wOm5QoNPI/AAAAAAAAMEg/57twD3xeCnc/s1600-h/Did_I_err.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wOm5QoNPI/AAAAAAAAMEg/57twD3xeCnc/s400/Did_I_err.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434734911697728754" /></a><br />Normally, using a windscreen for a top-mounted canister stove is a no-no as the gas canister may heat up dangerously; and, though butane / iso-butane canisters are generally safe, what with a concave bottom designed to pop out as an obvious visual warning of severe over-pressure, they are still capable of erupting into a ball of fire if sufficiently abused, along with the usual sharpnel, 72 virgins, nirvana, death, and pain (not necessarily in that order).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-VF7w65I/AAAAAAAAMBw/3Td3YoJShQc/s1600-h/CanisterStoveWindscreenTips.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-VF7w65I/AAAAAAAAMBw/3Td3YoJShQc/s400/CanisterStoveWindscreenTips.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434717013676190610" /></a><br />So, some people get creative with their windscreens and engage in metal origami. Read "<a href="http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/canister_stove_faq.html' target="_blank">Is it Safe to Use a Windscreen With a Canister Stove?</a>"<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-UwpJwZI/AAAAAAAAMBo/yRqlx-LisJk/s1600-h/IMG_1550.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-UwpJwZI/AAAAAAAAMBo/yRqlx-LisJk/s400/IMG_1550.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434717007960981906" /></a><br />With the gas canister located remotely, there's no such need to recreate Mel Gibson's <span style="font-style: italic;">Mad Max</span> set.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-UQ7Q-KI/AAAAAAAAMBg/AqUGFnWOSQ8/s1600-h/MadMaxBuggy.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-UQ7Q-KI/AAAAAAAAMBg/AqUGFnWOSQ8/s400/MadMaxBuggy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434716999447017634" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Other adaptors and additional information</span></span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-T0mD7eI/AAAAAAAAMBY/eC9DzAcx9K4/s1600-h/Markill_Stove_Base_Adaptor.gif' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-T0mD7eI/AAAAAAAAMBY/eC9DzAcx9K4/s400/Markill_Stove_Base_Adaptor.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434716991841889762" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Remote Canister Stove Stands</span><br /><br />Besides Brunton, <a href='http://www.vaude.com' target="_blank">Vaude</a> / Markill also manufactures a remote canister stove stand. The <a href='http://www.lakesclimber.com/camping/stove-accessories/markill-stove-base-adaptor-p-12077.html' target="_blank">Markill Stove Base Adaptor</a> appears to sit lower, and its gas canister connector does not feature an adjustable gas flow control valve.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-TsFnHWI/AAAAAAAAMBQ/VGh1_j5NAjg/s1600-h/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand2.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2v-TsFnHWI/AAAAAAAAMBQ/VGh1_j5NAjg/s400/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434716989558300002" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Remote Canister Stove Stand + CP250 Convertor</span><br /><br />Another remote canister stove stand comes along with an integrated CP250 to female Lindal 7/16 NS adaptor.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wAEXaHqgI/AAAAAAAAMCY/_peMfYWggAY/s1600-h/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wAEXaHqgI/AAAAAAAAMCY/_peMfYWggAY/s400/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434718925332392450" /></a><br />The <a href='http://www.aliexpress.com/product-gs/260126991-CE-0191-Adapter-Nozzle-Gas-Bottle-Screwgate-Camping-Stove-Gear-with-pipe-wholesalers.html' target="_blank">CE 0191 Adapter Nozzle Gas Bottle Screwgate Camping Stove Gear with pipe</a> is made of stainless steel and brass. The canister end of the adaptor has 2 protruding tabs which serve as legs to orientate the CP250 gas canister, enabling safe operation whilst lying on its side.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wAEHvBSJI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/mnjH3HmrBY8/s1600-h/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wAEHvBSJI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/mnjH3HmrBY8/s400/CP250AdaptorRemoteStand.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434718921125087378" /></a><br />This unit too, seems to lack an adjustable gas flow control valve.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wADofMMcI/AAAAAAAAMCI/S8KIjEdOG4E/s1600-h/Gasmate_CP250_AdaptorStand1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wADofMMcI/AAAAAAAAMCI/S8KIjEdOG4E/s400/Gasmate_CP250_AdaptorStand1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434718912737194434" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Semi-Remote Stove Stand + CP250 Convertor</span><br /><br />The <a href='http://www.gasmate.co.nz/product_listing.php?sec=CE&cat=4&pid=AD220' target="_blank">Gasmate Butane Adaptor — Screw to Bayonet (Model AD220)</a> is a curious unit with 3 foldable legs.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wADeRjkmI/AAAAAAAAMCA/hfXrVgrtdyE/s1600-h/Gasmate_CP250_AdaptorStand2.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wADeRjkmI/AAAAAAAAMCA/hfXrVgrtdyE/s400/Gasmate_CP250_AdaptorStand2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434718909995651682" /></a><br />The CP250 gas canister attaches from the side. A fixed mount ensures that the CP250 gas canister is oriented in the specific position for safe operation. This unit also appears to lack an adjustable gas flow control valve.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://forums.equipped.org/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=194645&page=13' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wADPjL7lI/AAAAAAAAMB4/pY4GKl2Kjbk/s400/GasmateAdaptorRemote.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434718906043067986" /></a><br />It can also be used with a remote canister stove stand or remote canister stove.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDgsxtTGI/AAAAAAAAMDA/bDF_SKfFNFs/s1600-h/Campingaz_CV.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDgsxtTGI/AAAAAAAAMDA/bDF_SKfFNFs/s400/Campingaz_CV.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434722710639692898" /></a><br />Apart from the female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded valve and the CP250 or CP Twist Fit Bayonet gas canister, there's also the CampinGaz CV series gas canisters, which are readily available in Singapore and Malaysia.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDgEPdh0I/AAAAAAAAMC4/nPS0MaPq7F4/s1600-h/CampinGaz_CV_series.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDgEPdh0I/AAAAAAAAMC4/nPS0MaPq7F4/s400/CampinGaz_CV_series.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434722699758634818" /></a><br />The CampinGaz CV series valve looks like this.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDf1Nes4I/AAAAAAAAMCw/0PnFE2Y3P3k/s1600-h/Markill_CV_to_ISO_Adaptor.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDf1Nes4I/AAAAAAAAMCw/0PnFE2Y3P3k/s400/Markill_CV_to_ISO_Adaptor.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434722695723791234" /></a><br /><a href='http://www.vaude.com' target="_blank">Vaude</a> / Markill makes a <a href='http://www.actionoutdoors.co.uk/shop/markill-valve-cartridge-adapter-p-880.html' target="_blank">Valve Cartridge Adapter (Ref: MK92497-100) </a> that converts a CV270 or CV470 CampinGaz gas canister to the female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded valve interface.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDffdSu6I/AAAAAAAAMCo/JKHhQLvtCzM/s1600-h/Campingaz_C206.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDffdSu6I/AAAAAAAAMCo/JKHhQLvtCzM/s400/Campingaz_C206.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434722689884535714" /></a><br />CampinGaz also has an older "C" series. These gas canisters have no valves, relying instead on the stove to puncture an opening. As these gas canisters are not resealable, they cannot be removed until they are empty.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDfInH2AI/AAAAAAAAMCg/fdf_MA1cVr4/s1600-h/Markill_Piercable_Adaptor1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wDfInH2AI/AAAAAAAAMCg/fdf_MA1cVr4/s400/Markill_Piercable_Adaptor1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434722683751749634" /></a><br />The <a href='http://www.vaude.com' target="_blank">Vaude</a> / <a href='http://www.climbers-shop.com/256000/products/Markill_Camping_Gaz_Adapter.aspx' target="_blank">Markill Puncture Canister Adaptor for C206</a> converts the CampinGaz C206 puncture gas canisters to the female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded valve interface.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEbUCqgRI/AAAAAAAAMDo/7l2YOf9WEtU/s1600-h/Markill_Piercable_Adaptor2.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEbUCqgRI/AAAAAAAAMDo/7l2YOf9WEtU/s400/Markill_Piercable_Adaptor2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434723717612208402" /></a><br />This adaptor has 3 arms which grip the bottom of the gas canister. The bottom of the 3 arms are then secured by a thick o-ring (not shown). The black knob on top is then screwed down until it punctures the CV206 gas canister. This set up enables the CV206 gas canister to be safely removed from the stove and stored apart for later use.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEa1ieqZI/AAAAAAAAMDg/M_SKNrnDdkc/s1600-h/GoGas2130.gif' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEa1ieqZI/AAAAAAAAMDg/M_SKNrnDdkc/s400/GoGas2130.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434723709424150930" /></a><br />GoGas used to sell a CampinGaz C206 to female Lindal 7/16 NS threaded valve adaptor as well.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEaSah_fI/AAAAAAAAMDY/vOfcS1Dxqd0/s1600-h/KarrimorPowerPack.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEaSah_fI/AAAAAAAAMDY/vOfcS1Dxqd0/s400/KarrimorPowerPack.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434723699995573746" /></a><br />Since being acquired by Karrimor, GoGas is now <a href='http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/news/article/mps/uan/1873' target="_blank">Karrimor GoSystem</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cold Weather Operation</span><br /><br />At this point, the JetBoil PCS / Flash is using gas vapor for operation. However, when temperatures drop below 31° F (0.5°C), butane does not vaporize well and performance suffers. Isobutane works down to 11° F (-12°C). Propane is good until -43° F (-40° C); however, propane canisters are usually much heavier, discounting them from bicycle touring and light-hiking.<br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEZ_qY7MI/AAAAAAAAMDQ/CJW_VYJME3E/s1600-h/JetBoil_Helios.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEZ_qY7MI/AAAAAAAAMDQ/CJW_VYJME3E/s400/JetBoil_Helios.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434723694961814722" /></a><br />One way is to invert the gas canister such that it forces liquid fuel to the stove. This requires a preheat / vaporization loop — which goes over the burner — in the stove's design. The Jetboil <a href='http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/helios.html' target="_blank">Helios</a>, which inverts the gas canister, uses such a setup. GearActive has <a href='http://www.flickr.com/photos/gearactive/3827043807/in/set-72157621932348517/' target="_blank">an excellent series of pictures</a> on this.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wOmcJ-2YI/AAAAAAAAMEY/QtXlpRpWC-I/s1600-h/Foom.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wOmcJ-2YI/AAAAAAAAMEY/QtXlpRpWC-I/s400/Foom.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434734903885224322" /></a><br />As the JetBoil PCS and Flash do not possess a preheat / vaporization loop, flipping over the canister is dangerous as there is a very real likelihood of a flame lift-off or flaring — this can, among other things result in the neoprene cozy and handle of the Jetboil melting; setting the tent / roof / annoying campmates / your goatee on fire; raising global temperatures and suffering <a href='http://bp3.blogger.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Ro4gz8K8VZI/AAAAAAAABgM/4Nwcwj_UJYY/s1600-h/Gorezilla.jpg' target="_blank">Al Gore's ire</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEZehriEI/AAAAAAAAMDI/DwrGe6z730g/s1600-h/IMG_1553.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wEZehriEI/AAAAAAAAMDI/DwrGe6z730g/s400/IMG_1553.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434723686066915394" /></a><br />Rather than fabricate a preheat / vaporization loop, one can add a heat shunt. A small brass block can be attached to the fuel inlet tube of the Brunton Canister Stove Stand. The brass block will have a small blind hole tapped on the side, to which a copper strip is attached. The other end of the copper strip is put near the flames, conducting heat to vaporize the liquid fuel in the fuel inlet tube.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFoBCJKuI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/C7yFajWu6rs/s1600-h/BruntonStoveStandMod.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFoBCJKuI/AAAAAAAAMEQ/C7yFajWu6rs/s400/BruntonStoveStandMod.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434725035359677154" /></a><br />Here's a modified Brunton Canister Stove Stand working with a Snow Peak <a href='http://www.snowpeak.com/back/stoves/ultralight.html' target="_blank">Giga Stove</a>. Note that while the connecting block is brass, the strip <span style="font-style: italic;">must</span> be copper.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">You can also stick an upright stove on the Brunton Stove Stand and run the canister inverted. In the photo here my Snow Peak is happily working away. However, a caution is imperitive here. The Brunton Stove Stand does not have a preheat tube. There is nothing to stop this arrangement from flaring badly, and dengerously. My solution is to attach a small brass block over the inlet tube (red arrow) and a strip of copper up from that to the flame (blue line). This acts as a heat shunt. I start the stove with the canister upright, wait maybe 10 seconds while the flame heats the shunt and the heat travels down to the brass block, and then I turn the canister upside down - gently, and at low power. The heat travelling down the shunt will make sure the liquid fuel is vaporised before it gets to the jet. It works fine for me, but no responsibility is accepted if you do this yourself. There is a full article about this at <a href='http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/myog_winter_stove_summer_upright_stove_brunton_stnd.html' target="_blank">Backpacking Light</a>.<br /><br />A caution is in order here. When you turn the canister upside down the needle valve will now be throttling liquid fuel, not gas. The liquid fuel will expand into gas at about 250 times the volume. If you are not careful you may find that the stove will suddenly roar a little too fiercely! So before you invert the canister, just turn the stove down to a gentle low. It may pick up a bit even so when you invert. Once the canister is inverted, regulate the stove as normal. You may find the valve slightly more sensitive.</span><br /></blockquote> (<a href='http://www.bushwalking.org.au/FAQ/FAQ_GasStoves.htm' target="_blank">Source</a>)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFnikdtRI/AAAAAAAAMEI/v2SlftsNV28/s1600-h/IMG_1543.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFnikdtRI/AAAAAAAAMEI/v2SlftsNV28/s400/IMG_1543.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434725027182130450" /></a><br />As the JetBoil PCS / Flash burners are much further away from the fuel inlet tube of the Brunton Canister Stove Stand, implementing this might be tricky (and adds 2 more failure points to the stove stand). That, and the heater tab would have to take a labyrinthic path to the burner — unless sticking it between <a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFnat6VOI/AAAAAAAAMEA/fzYmIH7LG-k/s1600-h/IMG_1576.JPG' target="_blank">the cooking cup's heat exchanger fins</a> is enough. I am considering if using a single, thick copper wire, with one end coiled over the Brunton Stove Stand's fuel inlet tube works just as well in vaporizing the fuel when the gas canister is inverted.<br /><br /><FONT COLOR="#FF0000"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Disclaimer</FONT COLOR>:</span> These are my own ruminations, <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">not</span></span> suggestions to readers. If you embark on any of these harebrained Wile E. Coyote "Acme" schemes, you do so entirely at your own risk and bear <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">all</span></span> consequent responsibility and liability.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFnGVyGhI/AAAAAAAAMD4/ydaC2xK3AQc/s1600-h/InvertedCanisterStands.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFnGVyGhI/AAAAAAAAMD4/ydaC2xK3AQc/s400/InvertedCanisterStands.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434725019604359698" /></a><br />As Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs' <a href='http://www.bushwalking.org.au/FAQ/FAQ_GasStoves.htm#Invert' target="_blank">FAQ on Gas Stoves</a> illustrated, there exists a multitude of ways to fabricate your own inverted canister stand. FWIW, Jim Wood compiled an excellent <a href='http://jwbasecamp.com/Articles/Canister%20Stands/Canister%20Stove%20Stands.html' target="_blank">overview of the various gas canister diameters and available stands</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=13468&startat=55' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2wFmq8QWhI/AAAAAAAAMDw/Aaw55BQnPP8/s400/MarkFerwerdaPrimusStand.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434725012249532946" /></a><br />Mark Ferwerda also has <a href='http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=13468&startat=40' target="_blank">an excellent idea</a>, utilizing a Primus <a href='http://primuscamping.com/product.php?id=21' target="_blank">Foot rest Canister Stabilizer</a>. Mark later reported that the epoxy broke after some time and came up with <a href='http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=26047' target="_blank">a more robust (and elegant) solution</a> with a drill press and a couple bits.<br /><br />For now, I am rather pleased with the Brunton Canister Stove Stand. Unless I ride or travel in subzero regions, the acquisition of a Vaude / <a href='http://www.actionoutdoors.co.uk/shop/markill-valve-cartridge-adapter-p-880.html' target="_blank">Markill Valve Cartridge Adaptor</a> will probably provide sufficient versatility for my venerable Jetboil PCS.<br /><br><br /> <br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2xiUj0hynI/AAAAAAAAMEo/rftoch4hJ9o/s1600-h/EndOfRoadStartOfTrail.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2xiUj0hynI/AAAAAAAAMEo/rftoch4hJ9o/s400/EndOfRoadStartOfTrail.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434826955681811058" /></a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-6936495079730440962010-01-27T23:54:00.003+08:002010-01-31T03:43:45.713+08:00Brooks B-17 Champion Special Titanium tension bolt re-seating / replacement<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-rVWVO5I/AAAAAAAAL8Y/QzxLX5kZqXU/s1600-h/IMG_1571.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-rVWVO5I/AAAAAAAAL8Y/QzxLX5kZqXU/s400/IMG_1571.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431480433539103634" /></a><br />A little routine oiling of a <a href='http://www.brookssaddles.com' target="_blank">Brooks</a> B-17 saddle (<a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2009/03/brooks-and-carradice.html' target="_blank">a gift from Peter</a>) found me disassembling the tension mechanism for a thorough cleaning.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-q5_masI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/pcOrTp1zqb8/s1600-h/IMG_1572.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-q5_masI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/pcOrTp1zqb8/s400/IMG_1572.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431480426196003522" /></a><br />Apart from the leather, all parts for the Brooks B-17 saddle may purchased as spares or replacements.<br /><br />The regular steel, black enameled frame is available for US$20; the titanium version retails at US$260. Titanium is one of the few metals that is <a href='http://www.azom.com/details.asp?ArticleID=1794' target="_blank">biocompatible</a>; this means that if you get into a wreck and the saddle frame gets embedded into your ass, surgeons won't have to remove it. Buy it.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.wallbike.com/accessories/tension.html' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-qPHxxYI/AAAAAAAAL8I/PAOTpd6gATs/s400/BrooksB17TensionParts.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431480414687577474" /></a><br />The replacement nose (titanium) is available for US$24; 'U' shaped tension shackle (titanium) for US$16; 60 mm zinc-plated steel bolt, with nut for US$14. (Image from <a href='http://www.wallbike.com' target="_blank">Wallingford Bicycle Parts</a>, New Orleans. All parts may be ordered from them.)<br /><br />The Brooks <a href='http://www.brookssaddles.com/en/Shop_ProductPage.aspx?cat=saddles+-+touring+%26+trekking&prod=B17+Titanium' target="_blank">B-17 Champion Special Titanium</a> model uses a 60 mm zinc-plated bolt with a <span style="font-style: italic;">tapered</span> collar nut (the importance of which will be apparent later).<br /><br />Brooks also offers <a href='http://www.brookssaddles.com/en/Contacts_RepairEnquiry.aspx' target="_blank">replacement of the leather</a> at their factory in Birmingham, England:<br /><br />From tomd (20th October 2009):<br /><br /><br /><blockquote>e-mail from brooks regarding re-hiding:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It is possible to fit a new leather top onto saddle, provided that the model concerned is still a current one.<br />The price for this repair would be £50.<br /><br />Best Regards</span><br /></blockquote> (<a href='http://www.lfgss.com/thread31410.html' target="_blank">Source</a>)<br /><br /><br />Once I started putting it together again, that's when the fun really began:<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Replacing the tension bolt on a Brooks saddle? - What's the trick?</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I have a Brooks saddle and the tension bolt sheered in half. So I got my hands on a new one, but my problem is actually trying to squeeze the thing into place. The saddle has been without tension for many months. Is there some trick for actually getting this damn thing into it "seated" into both circular holes? It seems like there is no 'safe' way to spread the rail assembly away from the front brass notch-piece.<br /><br />Has anyone done this before?</span><br /></blockquote> (<a href='http://forums.roadbikereview.com/showthread.php?t=157374' target="_blank">SlowIsMe, Road Bike Review Forums</a>)<br /><br /><br />An excerpt of an email from Bill Laine of Wallingford Bicycle Parts to Roger Sacilotto, 7 July, 2007:<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">The most frustrating part . . . might be re-assembling the saddle. Unless your saddle is really stretched it will be hard to get the end of the tension bolt into its cup in the nose piece. At the factory they have a hydraulic saddle stretcher. If you don't have one of those then it could be a real wrestling match trying to pry the nose out far enough to let the bolt drop in.</span><br /></blockquote> (<a href='http://newsgroups.derkeiler.com/Archive/Rec/rec.bicycles.tech/2007-07/msg00983.html' target="_blank">Source</a>)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-p3T26DI/AAAAAAAAL8A/LVuERQDJ93c/s1600-h/IMG_1574.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-p3T26DI/AAAAAAAAL8A/LVuERQDJ93c/s400/IMG_1574.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431480408295794738" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href='http://fotologue.jp/plastyc' target="_blank">NIC</a> [2:26 PM]:</span> Tension's kinda high. Straaange. Might wanna reduce the tension a slight bit for storage<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [2:28 PM]:</span> Must be gravity well of <a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2CVLWlpwKI/AAAAAAAAL8o/bclmF7wm_c8/s1600-h/domdom.jpg' target="_blank">Dom</a> nearby.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [2:32 PM]:</span> Okay, no tension now.<br />Pete insane.<br />Mad tension.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC [2:33 PM]:</span> LOL<br /><br /><br /> [much, <span style="font-style: italic;">much</span> later...]<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [5:19 PM]:</span> Fuck. Never back out the tension bolt of Brooks Ti saddles all the way.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC [5:20 PM]:</span> Now its floppy?<br />LOL<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [5:20 PM]:</span> Between the hours of 2:32 PM and 5:15 PM, I struggled to put it back.<br />'Just succeeded.<br />You need to get the collar of the nut and the head of the bolt JUST RIGHT to have both seated.<br />Oh, ya, add the natural springiness of Ti to fuck things up.<br />Wheeee.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC [5:22 PM]:</span> Helps if you put it on the ground and press it in with your body weight.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [5:24 PM]:</span> Us, starvies don't have no body weight :-P<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC [5:24 PM]:</span> LOL<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [5:27 PM]:</span> Ya, so that's how you do it.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC [5:27 PM]:</span> Body weight?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN [5:28 PM]:</span> I used finesse. Heh!<br />Not by choice, mind you.<br />After 2 hours of wrestling with Ti and a piece of dead cow, I was exhausted.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC (5:31 PM):</span> Ahaha!<br /><br /><br />The procedure that finally worked for me:<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2COOR9i_eI/AAAAAAAAL8g/NZcuwAh7DnI/s1600-h/B17PartsToGrease.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2COOR9i_eI/AAAAAAAAL8g/NZcuwAh7DnI/s400/B17PartsToGrease.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431497526599679458" /></a><br />Apply a thin coating of anti-seize (or grease) on: the tapered end of the tension bolt nut; the edge of the hole on the tension shackle; around the head of the tension bolt.<br /><br />Place tension shackle ('U' shaped piece) over the nose end of the saddle rails.<br /><br />Thread the tension bolt nut until 2 threads are visible from the head of the tension bolt.<br /><br />Insert tension bolt into tension shackle.<br /><br />Press tension assembly down.<br /><br />Push head of tension bolt toward the nose of saddle until it seats in the recess of the nose piece.<br /><br />Move tension bolt nut toward tension shackle by either rotating tension bolt nut or turning the head of the tension bolt using an allen key — gently.<br /><br />At some point, resistance will be felt. Stop.<br /><br />Alternately reduce or increase tension while pressing and pulling on the tension assembly (on a vertical plane. I.e. 90 degrees to the tension mechanism assembly). Keep each rotation of the bolt or nut small.<br /><br />The tension bolt nut has a tapered collar (stained brown/bronze by the anti-seize in the picture) which aids in it slipping into the hole of the tension shackle. The aim of this procedure is to leverage what little play there is to get the lip of the tension bolt nut collar to slip into the hole of the tension shackle with a minimum of force and galling — you're talking millimeters here.<br /><br />The <span style="font-style: italic;">clunk!</span> you hear when the tension bolt nut seats in, will be about the sweetest sound you'll hear all day.<br /><br /><br />Your mileage may vary for other models of the Brooks B17 as they do not have a hex head, but the procedure should be quite similar (albeit, slightly more difficult due to the inability to rotate the tension bolt). <br /><br />Just remember, patience and finesse, not brute force. Save the last for the <a href='http://cyclingspokane.blogspot.com/2007/02/my-weak-contribution-to-people-who-want.html' target="_blank">re-railing</a>! <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-pQWJYrI/AAAAAAAAL74/rT4qeOewLmo/s1600-h/Adversity.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S2B-pQWJYrI/AAAAAAAAL74/rT4qeOewLmo/s400/Adversity.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431480397836411570" /></a><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-58628174052759012932010-01-21T23:45:00.005+08:002010-01-22T08:29:55.682+08:00Paen<br><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">Pain is a big fat creature riding on your back. The farther you pedal, the heavier he feels. The harder you push, the tighter he squeezes your chest. The steeper the climb, the deeper he digs his jagged, sharp claws into your muscles.</span><br /></blockquote> (Scott Martin)<br /><br /><br />I usually don't post stuff like this (let alone double post), but I love it when I begin a ride in high spirits.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NGFToiLtXro&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NGFToiLtXro&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />Here's an internal soundtrack running through my head as I embark on yet another 109.44 km (68.4 miles) non-stop, solo ride around (most of) the island.<br /><br /><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;">15 minutes to the witching hour.</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;">Hello, <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2005/12/pain.html' target="_blank">Pain!</span></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">:-D</span><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-29697841300202531582010-01-20T14:12:00.000+08:002010-01-20T14:12:14.845+08:00Ignorance is bliss<br><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.</span><br /></blockquote> (Benjamin Franklin)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />'Walked past some contractors after lunch. 'Saw a rather familiar looking tool sticking out of a pile of debris. 'Asked the contractor if he still wants it. <br /><br />"Oh, it's broken. Bent. Not accurate anymore," he said. <br /><br />Fine. I brought it home.<br /><br />What is it?<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaHREqcOI/AAAAAAAAL0U/oLhB1T4sEmM/s1600-h/IMG_1487R.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaHREqcOI/AAAAAAAAL0U/oLhB1T4sEmM/s400/IMG_1487R.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428695850474434786" /></a><br />A Sears Craftsman 1/2" drive, 0-150 lbs ft. lb. (0-203 Nm) torque wrench.<br /><br />As opposed to a click-type, the beam-type can be <a href='http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=88' target="_blank">easily re-calibrated by the end-user</a>. I.e. one second spent bending the indicator arm back to zero... and, it's as good as new! That, and these things are guaranteed for life. (Yes, some of us do read the fine print.)<br /><br />Well, it's mine now.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaHOYxzOI/AAAAAAAAL0M/MaqYBq-O6cE/s1600-h/IMG_1488R.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaHOYxzOI/AAAAAAAAL0M/MaqYBq-O6cE/s400/IMG_1488R.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428695849753496802" /></a><br />It makes a fine complement to my Park Tools <a href='http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=13&item=TW%2D1' target="_blank">TW-1</a> 1/4" drive, 0-60 inch pounds (0-7 Nm) and <a href='http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=13&item=TW%2D2' target="_blank">TW-2</a> 3/8" drive, 0-600 inch pounds (0-70 Nm) torque wrenches. <strike>I am still looking for the late Sheldon Brown's elusive <a href='http://sheldonbrown.com/tork-grip.html' target="_blank">Tork-<span style="font-style: italic;">Grip</span> Ultimate Torque Wrench</a>.</strike><br /><br />So, remember, kids! If you get a flat on your bike, the bike's useless. (The same goes for your car.) Give it to me and I will dispose of it for you!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaGZVrpPI/AAAAAAAAL0E/rRaBkyfnDiY/s1600-h/Ignorance1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1aaGZVrpPI/AAAAAAAAL0E/rRaBkyfnDiY/s400/Ignorance1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428695835513431282" /></a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-81901725549993880272010-01-18T22:30:00.003+08:002010-01-19T16:34:51.083+08:00Planet Bike / Smart Superflash rear light mod<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVX9y3SHI/AAAAAAAALy0/swUtpcGXi7M/s1600-h/CateyeTL_LD270.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVX9y3SHI/AAAAAAAALy0/swUtpcGXi7M/s400/CateyeTL_LD270.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427986952357365874" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVXtKCyFI/AAAAAAAALys/gc_DL9pvb1A/s1600-h/IMG_1485.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVXtKCyFI/AAAAAAAALys/gc_DL9pvb1A/s400/IMG_1485.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427986947891185746" /></a><br />When my non-weather-proof Cateye <a href='http://www.cateye.com/en/product_detail/321' target="_blank">TL-LD270</a> rear light died from circuit board corrosion (after a one too many rainy rides), I switched to my back up Cateye light.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVXUmqvhI/AAAAAAAALyk/jAtMi84rh8c/s1600-h/IMG_1486.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVXUmqvhI/AAAAAAAALyk/jAtMi84rh8c/s400/IMG_1486.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427986941300358674" /></a><br />The Cateye <a href='http://www.cateye.com/en/product_detail/273' target="_blank">SL-LD100</a> rear light, though weather-proof, was not very bright; I had cars come up real close before going around me. Definitely not a good choice for Friday and Saturday solo night rides on dark roads (unless you have next-of-kin or significant others waiting to cash in on your life policy).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVWyov-HI/AAAAAAAALyc/0cHjbPIk-6s/s1600-h/IMG_1409.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVWyov-HI/AAAAAAAALyc/0cHjbPIk-6s/s400/IMG_1409.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427986932182284402" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVWUZHQlI/AAAAAAAALyU/acHoJ-5AQA8/s1600-h/IMG_1410.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QVWUZHQlI/AAAAAAAALyU/acHoJ-5AQA8/s400/IMG_1410.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427986924063638098" /></a><br />When I tested out the <a href='http://ecom1.planetbike.com/3034.html' target="_blank">Planet Bike</a> / <a href='http://www.bikeradar.com/beginners/gear/category/accessories/lights/back/product/superflash-317r-32412' target="_blank">Smart 317R</a> Superflash, I was surprised by its brightness and immediately procured one for myself. <br /><br />Apart from a slight difference in the color of the plastic housing, the Planet Bike and Smart models are identical in function. <br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWVX-ZjuI/AAAAAAAALzc/ugiJFqVlKRs/s1600-h/PBstealthSuperflash.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWVX-ZjuI/AAAAAAAALzc/ugiJFqVlKRs/s400/PBstealthSuperflash.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988007357091554" /></a><br />The Planet Bike <a href='http://ecom1.planetbike.com/3034_1.html' target="_blank">Stealth</a> Superflash is black, with clear transparent plastic; has 3 more syllables to its name (one more than <a href='http://ecom1.planetbike.com/3034.html' target="_blank">its sibling</a>); and sounds cooler — buy it.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/l1oDPdqpoLM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/l1oDPdqpoLM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />ozphoto did a snappy review of the Superflash versus your standard 5-LED light. There are plenty of reviews of this light, so I won't belabor its brightness; the fact that it uses the cheaper and commonly available AAA cell instead of the N cell or CR 2032 button cell, et cetera.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWVE0bf7I/AAAAAAAALzU/Z5p8vgvhMDs/s1600-h/IMG_1453.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWVE0bf7I/AAAAAAAALzU/Z5p8vgvhMDs/s400/IMG_1453.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988002215002034" /></a><br />What I am interested in is addressing 2 design weaknesses in the light.<br /><br />The light has a belt clip that slides into a receiver bracket (that's attached to the bike). In the above image, the curved part is the belt clip. The straight part has a small tab on it, which prevents the light from sliding up and out. About as secure as the Whitley Road Detention Centre, this arrangement works most of the time, until you hit a bump...<br /><br />Then, the Superflash sails off, and your bike becomes super light, sans light, stealth-like <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-D</span><br /><br />Not a few riders lost <strike>weight</strike> their lights this way.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWUuNcQwI/AAAAAAAALzM/uWvdiy6LaJg/s1600-h/IMG_1464.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWUuNcQwI/AAAAAAAALzM/uWvdiy6LaJg/s400/IMG_1464.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427987996145894146" /></a><br />On the predecessor of the Superflash — which employs the same mounting system — I used a small cable tie to ensure the light would never sail off like <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mas_Selamat_bin_Kastari' target="_blank">Mas Selamat bin Kastari</a>.<br /><br />That's one design flaw addressed without a S$2.9 million dollar salary.<br /><br />On the Candle Power Forums, CDG08 noted:<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">The clear housing of the components. This half of the light is the the more heavier of the two, rendering it more likely to fall off due to road shock and bumps on the road / trail. . . . The half that is the lightest is also the half securely mounted the the bike. The heavy half that has the components, LEDs, batteries, is all on this other side.</span><br /></blockquote> (<a href='http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=240120' target="_blank">Source</a>)<br /><br /><br />Check out his pictures in the <a href='http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=240120' target="_blank">link</a> and it will become clearer.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWT1CN5YI/AAAAAAAALzE/ZpG3PV6gKio/s1600-h/IMG_1483.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWT1CN5YI/AAAAAAAALzE/ZpG3PV6gKio/s400/IMG_1483.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427987980797994370" /></a><br />What this means in plain Ingrish: the light is made of 2 halves: the lighter part, and the heavier part. The lighter part has been secured to the bracket; the heavier part has not. Upon hitting a bump or pothole, the heavier part can <span style="font-style: italic;">still</span> break away from the lighter part... leaving you with a <strike>lighter</strike> faster bike <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br />Some riders unwittingly <strike>lightened</strike> darkened their steeds in this manner as well.<br /><br />My solution then, was a humble, <span style="font-style: italic;">ever resilient</span>, rubber band.<br /><br /><FONT COLOR="#FF0000"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">*Snap!*</span></span></FONT COLOR><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWTSvevYI/AAAAAAAALy8/S753tynqqoI/s1600-h/IMG_1455.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QWTSvevYI/AAAAAAAALy8/S753tynqqoI/s400/IMG_1455.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427987971592600962" /></a><br />That served me well, easily lasting through a 14-day tour in the tropics. <br /><br />However, there's got to be a neater, more reliable, more aesthetically pleasing way to go about this. (Thanks, Karen <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-)</span> ) <br /><br />The solution? A longer, translucent cable tie!<br /><br />Loop a 3 mm wide, 200 mm long translucent cable tie around the mid-section of the light and tighten. There's no need to cinch it too tight; the point is to hold the two halves together, not achieve fusion. Cut off the excess with a <span style="font-style: italic;">very sharp</span> utility knife, such that it sits flush. The last detail is to ensure that nothing protrudes to hook or scratch your thighs and/or <strike><span style="font-style: italic;">too tight</span></strike> shorts. The light can still be slid off the bracket at this point, you just need to bend the light out a wee bit further.<br /><br />Regular alkaline batteries last about 190 hours in flashing mode, so you shouldn't need to remove the cable tie to replace the 2 AAA batteries too often. In any case, the cable ties are very affordable, costing me about S$0.06 (US$0.04) each. For those desiring <span style="font-style: italic;">much, much</span> greater intervals between battery changes — as well as a 33% reduction in battery weight — use a pair of <a href='http://www.energizer.com/products/hightech-batteries/lithium/pages/lithium-batteries.aspx' target="_blank">Energizer Lithium AAA batteries</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXBAKBv2I/AAAAAAAALz8/iiRXsZO7q4E/s1600-h/IMG_1467.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXBAKBv2I/AAAAAAAALz8/iiRXsZO7q4E/s400/IMG_1467.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988756877655906" /></a><br />Here's a shot of the 200 mm (about 8") long translucent cable tie. You might be able to get away with 150 mm (6") but I can't guarantee it.<br /><br />For the other cable tie, use a shorter length and make a small loop. <strike>Use your estimation of your favorite male politician's manhood as a rough guide.</strike> You will need a little trial and error in the next step to figure out just how small the loop can be and still remain removable. For aesthetics, you may choose to use a black cable tie as it will blend in with the tab and belt clip.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tip:</span> The thin, long cable ties supplied with your speedometers / cyclo-computers are usually 3 mm wide.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXAtbaC9I/AAAAAAAALz0/O9Xbnea-0RU/s1600-h/IMG_1457.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXAtbaC9I/AAAAAAAALz0/O9Xbnea-0RU/s400/IMG_1457.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988751850277842" /></a><br />Slide the loop over the tab and belt clip until it slips into the hollow formed by the upper curved part of the belt clip. There is just enough space in there for two 3 mm wide cable ties.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXAUnS3sI/AAAAAAAALzs/befVvC1KupU/s1600-h/IMG_1459.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QXAUnS3sI/AAAAAAAALzs/befVvC1KupU/s400/IMG_1459.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988745189252802" /></a><br />What the completed modification looks like.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QW_5i2rOI/AAAAAAAALzk/ePO2v8Cph2E/s1600-h/IMG_1460.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1QW_5i2rOI/AAAAAAAALzk/ePO2v8Cph2E/s400/IMG_1460.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427988737922870498" /></a><br />Rear view.<br /><br />The light is now ruggedized; short of a crash, nothing is likely to cause your Planet Bike / Smart Superflash to pop off.<br /><br />You now have no excuse not to be out at night.<br /><br />Go ride.<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-63327164402957116182010-01-09T04:40:00.002+08:002010-01-17T21:46:00.937+08:00Cycling is like a church — many attend, but few understand<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLbrc2WSI/AAAAAAAALxQ/Yo7WEfTrDJ4/s1600-h/IMG_1418.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLbrc2WSI/AAAAAAAALxQ/Yo7WEfTrDJ4/s400/IMG_1418.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427694546059680034" /></a><br />So said Jim Burlant. In quiet genuflection, I went for my first night ride of 2010. Besides, it's been a while since I went exploring solo. (Thanks for the tip, <a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MO2WQCFKI/AAAAAAAALxo/HJF4xYHMS5Q/s1600-h/IMG_1408.JPG' target="_blank">Pete</a>!)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLbB0IraI/AAAAAAAALxI/6L5Pkbtbjsg/s1600-h/IMG_1419.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLbB0IraI/AAAAAAAALxI/6L5Pkbtbjsg/s400/IMG_1419.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427694534883061154" /></a><br />Crossing over to Pulau Punggol Barat (island). About 3+ km further, this new road crosses over to another island, Pulau Punggol Timor. There's a couple kilometers' worth of quiet wooded tarmac after this. nash_1126 has some nice pictures <a href='http://s467.photobucket.com/albums/rr39/nash_1126/Solo_Seletar' target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&ll=1.41795,103.881054&spn=0.060063,0.072956&z=13&output=embed"></iframe><br /><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLal3CXZI/AAAAAAAALxA/pr3OgAk3MYA/s1600-h/IMG_1421.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MLal3CXZI/AAAAAAAALxA/pr3OgAk3MYA/s400/IMG_1421.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427694527379037586" /></a><br />Cool winds and solitude made for a contemplative, spiritually refreshing, ride.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MMzG66wBI/AAAAAAAALxg/R_cXnwF9uQM/s1600-h/IMG_1426.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MMzG66wBI/AAAAAAAALxg/R_cXnwF9uQM/s400/IMG_1426.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427696048082173970" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MMy6FR9CI/AAAAAAAALxY/cp1svh7ekqg/s1600-h/IMG_1429.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/S1MMy6FR9CI/AAAAAAAALxY/cp1svh7ekqg/s400/IMG_1429.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427696044635976738" /></a><br />Crossing the tide control gates of Sungei Punggol, Seletar North Link terminates beneath the tracks of the Punggol LRT, connecting to Punggol Way. The road passes a yet-to-be-open LRT station, PW7 Soo Teck. A stone's throw away is <a href='http://www.marinacountryclub.com.sg' target="_blank">Punggol Marina</a>. (Hat tip: Weijie of <a href='http://www.chapter2cycle.com' target="_blank">Chapter 2 Cycle</a> for showing me the way through the construction sites.)<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-4312805981946056472009-12-08T05:50:00.002+08:002009-12-08T22:25:25.518+08:00Christmas comes early for bike thieves<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dGWqjWGI/AAAAAAAALc8/3JkaEqwXCw4/s1600-h/GrinchBikeThief.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dGWqjWGI/AAAAAAAALc8/3JkaEqwXCw4/s400/GrinchBikeThief.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866165890570338" /></a><br />It's interesting what one sees on a couple hours' ride around town.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Pwh7OyIS0PM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Pwh7OyIS0PM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dFqboFtI/AAAAAAAALc0/K9yBmbqihuM/s1600-h/IMG_1391.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dFqboFtI/AAAAAAAALc0/K9yBmbqihuM/s400/IMG_1391.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866154016806610" /></a><br />3:46 AM.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://bikejerksmpls.blogspot.com/2008/09/fuck-you-bike-thieves.html' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dFb8gY3I/AAAAAAAALcs/r5FdDoR2fNg/s400/BikeThiefMessage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866150128182130" /></a><br />Something tells me that Mike is probably a tourer, endurance rider, hunter, or, in all probability, all three. <br /><br />Ride long, ride hard, and hide well, bike thief <span style="font-weight: bold;">:-P</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2008/07/how-to-end-bike/' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dE5RIqbI/AAAAAAAALck/FZv3H2WLw9w/s400/BikeThiefSurprise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866140819466674" /></a><br />Not recommended for liability reasons but <a href='http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2008/07/how-to-end-bike/' target="_blank">highly entertaining</a> nonetheless.<br /><br />Me? I used <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2005/08/two-pictures.html' target="_blank">this</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dEnY2geI/AAAAAAAALcc/LqXrbRt_35w/s1600-h/IMG_1395.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Sx5dEnY2geI/AAAAAAAALcc/LqXrbRt_35w/s400/IMG_1395.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866136019993058" /></a><br />4:04 AM.<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-62015105220286359532009-11-21T06:00:00.007+08:002009-11-30T14:57:54.978+08:00Latest arrival at Cycle Corner<br><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcKOTrIa4I/AAAAAAAALb0/re29fZ9ax54/s1600/IMG_1342.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcKOTrIa4I/AAAAAAAALb0/re29fZ9ax54/s400/IMG_1342.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406301118597196674" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">No Name</span> (she doesn't have a name yet) is 2 months old and, like all puppies, possesses boundless energy, bouncing off walls 24 hours a day.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcP7VT1H3I/AAAAAAAALcE/kLx1Euglm1U/s1600/PillionDawg.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcP7VT1H3I/AAAAAAAALcE/kLx1Euglm1U/s400/PillionDawg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406307389688586098" /></a><br />When she grows up, she will do this on bikes...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcP7CEJohI/AAAAAAAALb8/2xhb6e7uJKI/s1600/iBite.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwcP7CEJohI/AAAAAAAALb8/2xhb6e7uJKI/s400/iBite.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406307384522547730" /></a><br />...and do this to bike thieves and jackass drivers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Woof!</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwGTkjkeO6I/AAAAAAAALa0/MDuvpUIoEFg/s1600/DoggyIceCream.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SwGTkjkeO6I/AAAAAAAALa0/MDuvpUIoEFg/s400/DoggyIceCream.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404763284054096802" /></a><br />But for now, she will just share ice-cream with you.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SxIeLW9SohI/AAAAAAAALcM/FRumYGDJbrc/s1600/IMG_1351.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SxIeLW9SohI/AAAAAAAALcM/FRumYGDJbrc/s400/IMG_1351.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409419282915435026" /></a> (Image credit: Jean)<br /><br />Send name suggestions to cycle_corner AT yahoo DOT com DOT sg<br /><br />:-D<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-9990209664606737322009-10-09T22:40:00.008+08:002009-12-22T15:08:46.784+08:00Tenggaroh Loop Ride<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvh0Qn7FWI/AAAAAAAALGY/irH3t6edcsM/s1600-h/GoingTheDistance.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvh0Qn7FWI/AAAAAAAALGY/irH3t6edcsM/s400/GoingTheDistance.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394153266638165346" /></a><br />Artist's impression of ride.<br /><br />After 6 months of almost absolute inactivity, <a href='http://fotologue.jp/plastyc' target="_blank">NicIz2HardKore</a> and I decided to embark on a short ride in the greater Desaru area. The ride was almost called off a week before the trip when some klutz knocked Ivy over, rendering shifting to her smallest cog impossible; then, Peter Chew of <a href='http://togoparts.com/bikeshops/shop_details.php?sid=132' target="_blank">Cycle Corner</a> worked his magic and got her back on the road. Whee!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvhzrJN4OI/AAAAAAAALGQ/QW81lsiaMHU/s1600-h/TenggarohLoopRideOct2009Labeled.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvhzrJN4OI/AAAAAAAALGQ/QW81lsiaMHU/s400/TenggarohLoopRideOct2009Labeled.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394153256577261794" /></a><br /><FONT COLOR="#FF0000">Red</FONT COLOR> = <FONT COLOR="#FF0000">Day 1</FONT COLOR><br /><FONT COLOR="#0000FF">Blue</FONT COLOR> = <FONT COLOR="#0000FF">Day 2</FONT COLOR><br /><FONT COLOR="#CC0099">Magenta</FONT COLOR> = <FONT COLOR="#CC0099">Day 3</FONT COLOR><br /><FONT COLOR="#FFFF00">Yellow</FONT COLOR> = Highway / B-road numbers<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmKai_SaI/AAAAAAAALHY/H0vs38ek17E/s1600-h/IMG_1083.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmKai_SaI/AAAAAAAALHY/H0vs38ek17E/s400/IMG_1083.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158045305457058" /></a><br />9:40 AM. Filling waterbottles from a drinking fountain at Changi Beach. As Curious Cat looks on, Nic loads film into one of his cameras.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmJ9x6tyI/AAAAAAAALHQ/kKTDmw6Zxt4/s1600-h/IMG_1084.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmJ9x6tyI/AAAAAAAALHQ/kKTDmw6Zxt4/s400/IMG_1084.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158037583443746" /></a><br />"You folks are crazy, I'm staying put — where it's nice and shady," <span style="font-style: italic;">kucinta</span> purred.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTztNk8jI/AAAAAAAALXE/cRMw33Z_1BY/s1600-h/IMG_1328.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTztNk8jI/AAAAAAAALXE/cRMw33Z_1BY/s400/IMG_1328.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394348970202165810" /></a><br />After waiting the better part of an hour, the bumboat finally got going — everyone decided to fork out an extra SG$2 instead of waiting for more passengers. (Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmJRK-2FI/AAAAAAAALHI/GeaPoFFUjcY/s1600-h/IMG_1086.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmJRK-2FI/AAAAAAAALHI/GeaPoFFUjcY/s400/IMG_1086.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158025608976466" /></a><br />11:10 AM. Here's a picture of a really beat up motorbike at Tanjung Pengelih. Temperature 91° F (32.8° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvmz4l2M_I/AAAAAAAALHw/0udXEnSpwPY/s1600-h/IMG_1087.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvmz4l2M_I/AAAAAAAALHw/0udXEnSpwPY/s400/IMG_1087.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158757745144818" /></a><br />22 km of flat roads to the town of Sungai Rengit.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmzKYM87I/AAAAAAAALHo/PcYj5ZV5zRY/s1600-h/IMG_1091.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvmzKYM87I/AAAAAAAALHo/PcYj5ZV5zRY/s400/IMG_1091.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158745339884466" /></a><br />Jalan Besar, Sungai Rengit.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvmyg7UlJI/AAAAAAAALHg/hlBnzqE1vss/s1600-h/IMG_1093.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvmyg7UlJI/AAAAAAAALHg/hlBnzqE1vss/s400/IMG_1093.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394158734212895890" /></a><br /><a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bak_kut_teh' target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Bak Kut Teh</span></a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvnbH4Y7eI/AAAAAAAALII/D5rjgUQLqbM/s1600-h/IMG_1094.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvnbH4Y7eI/AAAAAAAALII/D5rjgUQLqbM/s400/IMG_1094.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394159431864348130" /></a><br /><strike>Check out my ribs.</strike><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">What's that about fatty cuts of meat being bad for you again?</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTzSzU-lI/AAAAAAAALW8/JNJr2c9ZO7I/s1600-h/IMG_1333.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTzSzU-lI/AAAAAAAALW8/JNJr2c9ZO7I/s400/IMG_1333.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394348963112745554" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Pork-Power!</span><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTy-OtO7I/AAAAAAAALW0/Xne9RocBaAU/s1600-h/IMG_1334.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyTy-OtO7I/AAAAAAAALW0/Xne9RocBaAU/s400/IMG_1334.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394348957590436786" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUt9PuuAI/AAAAAAAALXs/yi9gfbRcT0Q/s1600-h/IMG_1335.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUt9PuuAI/AAAAAAAALXs/yi9gfbRcT0Q/s400/IMG_1335.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394349970938574850" /></a><br />Reception for "high-end" TRY-athletes from a certain tropical-island-city-state-with-no-mountains. You know? The w(h)inners who cry about not having enough water points, feed points, medical personnel, traffic control, finisher's medals, hugging stations, counseling couches, pow-wow tents; and bad music, uncooperative weather, too much sand, too much mud, strong headwinds, cold water, dirty water, excessive sunlight, et cetera...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvnao8oL0I/AAAAAAAALIA/ZfdGYGIzo9s/s1600-h/IMG_1098.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvnao8oL0I/AAAAAAAALIA/ZfdGYGIzo9s/s400/IMG_1098.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394159423560625986" /></a><br />Passing by some chalets in Tanjung Ramunia.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvnaOtWhnI/AAAAAAAALH4/seFyCrHjTT8/s1600-h/IMG_1099.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvnaOtWhnI/AAAAAAAALH4/seFyCrHjTT8/s400/IMG_1099.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394159416517232242" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Hey! They repaved this section of the road! No more prostate-squishing! Yay!</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvodba-rzI/AAAAAAAALIg/Ug5qh115EoY/s1600-h/IMG_1103.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvodba-rzI/AAAAAAAALIg/Ug5qh115EoY/s400/IMG_1103.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394160570981068594" /></a><br />Mr. Shutterbug.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvocu3WLOI/AAAAAAAALIY/08Jf74l9NCk/s1600-h/IMG_1104.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvocu3WLOI/AAAAAAAALIY/08Jf74l9NCk/s400/IMG_1104.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394160559020453090" /></a><br />Highway 90 is on the left.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUtZRTNaI/AAAAAAAALXk/WD7vaD-DOKU/s1600-h/IMG_1355.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUtZRTNaI/AAAAAAAALXk/WD7vaD-DOKU/s400/IMG_1355.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394349961281484194" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUszj2n6I/AAAAAAAALXc/_vlimn28in0/s1600-h/IMG_1358.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUszj2n6I/AAAAAAAALXc/_vlimn28in0/s400/IMG_1358.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394349951158755234" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUssAsBPI/AAAAAAAALXU/OTKBn8NiEU8/s1600-h/IMG_1364.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUssAsBPI/AAAAAAAALXU/OTKBn8NiEU8/s400/IMG_1364.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394349949132211442" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvocEzgDxI/AAAAAAAALIQ/hAphFyMtNDs/s1600-h/IMG_1113.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvocEzgDxI/AAAAAAAALIQ/hAphFyMtNDs/s400/IMG_1113.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394160547730034450" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Much</span> earlier (leaving Sungai Rengit):<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN:</span> Let's stop at the next bus stop.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC:</span> I am sure you realize bus stops aren't very common here.<br /><br />Bus stop. I raised my saddle height by 2 mm.<br />Temperature 98° F (36.7° C)<br /><br />I promise to do better next time. Next time, I'll say, "Let's stop at the next light."<br /><br />:-P<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUsB6uQOI/AAAAAAAALXM/49qplpMe9Vs/s1600-h/IMG_1377.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyUsB6uQOI/AAAAAAAALXM/49qplpMe9Vs/s400/IMG_1377.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394349937832902882" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpUT8PS_I/AAAAAAAALI4/AQtbgmwmLmQ/s1600-h/IMG_1109.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpUT8PS_I/AAAAAAAALI4/AQtbgmwmLmQ/s400/IMG_1109.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394161513865890802" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpThcA0jI/AAAAAAAALIw/n2ba5kwAzkE/s1600-h/IMG_1114.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpThcA0jI/AAAAAAAALIw/n2ba5kwAzkE/s400/IMG_1114.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394161500308951602" /></a><br />Well, technically, it's still a (gravel) road.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpTH5Om0I/AAAAAAAALIo/2iePdlITU08/s1600-h/IMG_1115.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvpTH5Om0I/AAAAAAAALIo/2iePdlITU08/s400/IMG_1115.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394161493452168002" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvsawm7HfI/AAAAAAAALJI/zesObYyj0yU/s1600-h/IMG_1116.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvsawm7HfI/AAAAAAAALJI/zesObYyj0yU/s400/IMG_1116.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394164923175214578" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvsaIsecRI/AAAAAAAALJA/mqQJn2Z7Opw/s1600-h/IMG_1117.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvsaIsecRI/AAAAAAAALJA/mqQJn2Z7Opw/s400/IMG_1117.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394164912461082898" /></a><br />Taking a few minutes under swaying coconut trees, gazing at the huge LPG tankers barreling off the coast, in the South China Sea.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvs-sd5HtI/AAAAAAAALJY/ridoG0U6pb4/s1600-h/IMG_1123.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvs-sd5HtI/AAAAAAAALJY/ridoG0U6pb4/s400/IMG_1123.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394165540538883794" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvs-JckFzI/AAAAAAAALJQ/oFBh62aCS7g/s1600-h/IMG_1128.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvs-JckFzI/AAAAAAAALJQ/oFBh62aCS7g/s400/IMG_1128.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394165531138070322" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvt4tJMUAI/AAAAAAAALJo/yPgJjyRtSt4/s1600-h/IMG_1131.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvt4tJMUAI/AAAAAAAALJo/yPgJjyRtSt4/s400/IMG_1131.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394166537152909314" /></a><br />Well, at least it's not as crowded as the Botanic Gardens of a certain city-island-state.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvt4BK-FHI/AAAAAAAALJg/jBQ8CGzskao/s1600-h/IMG_1132.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvt4BK-FHI/AAAAAAAALJg/jBQ8CGzskao/s400/IMG_1132.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394166525349205106" /></a><br />Batu Layar (Sail Rock).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvuXqjPiUI/AAAAAAAALJ4/UUmAuJkqns4/s1600-h/IMG_1133.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvuXqjPiUI/AAAAAAAALJ4/UUmAuJkqns4/s400/IMG_1133.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394167069032810818" /></a><br />The hills begin after this.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvuXBpWeMI/AAAAAAAALJw/ieq-JTz8u4c/s1600-h/IMG_1134.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvuXBpWeMI/AAAAAAAALJw/ieq-JTz8u4c/s400/IMG_1134.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394167058052577474" /></a><br />I like this pic.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StviMr9PgpI/AAAAAAAALGo/6JN4it-tnkU/s1600-h/ClusterFarkersStillLose.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StviMr9PgpI/AAAAAAAALGo/6JN4it-tnkU/s400/ClusterFarkersStillLose.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394153686292202130" /></a><br />It makes me think of this.<br /><br />:-P<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvu7vQm3ZI/AAAAAAAALKI/zv_U95FYGTk/s1600-h/IMG_1136.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvu7vQm3ZI/AAAAAAAALKI/zv_U95FYGTk/s400/IMG_1136.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394167688772115858" /></a><br />Sweat got into Nic's eyes.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVTHSNh8I/AAAAAAAALYU/4c_3hhkgD48/s1600-h/IMG_1386.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVTHSNh8I/AAAAAAAALYU/4c_3hhkgD48/s400/IMG_1386.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394350609288497090" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Kss-7dWOe7Y&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Kss-7dWOe7Y&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvu7DZZDYI/AAAAAAAALKA/wGCD0hlgfUQ/s1600-h/IMG_1142.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvu7DZZDYI/AAAAAAAALKA/wGCD0hlgfUQ/s400/IMG_1142.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394167676997799298" /></a><br />Desaru, final approach.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvvU0vjR8I/AAAAAAAALKY/OHtvFO0VwiY/s1600-h/IMG_1147.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvvU0vjR8I/AAAAAAAALKY/OHtvFO0VwiY/s400/IMG_1147.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394168119740811202" /></a><br />4:04 PM. Tajung Balau.<br />Temperature 91° F (32.8° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvvUKxSkfI/AAAAAAAALKQ/0xnSdflyOl8/s1600-h/IMG_1148.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvvUKxSkfI/AAAAAAAALKQ/0xnSdflyOl8/s400/IMG_1148.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394168108473815538" /></a><br />4:30 PM. Back on the road.<br />Trying our hands at <a href='http://www.cyclelicio.us/2008/03/bicycling-is-fun.html#' target="_blank">panda shots</a> <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/05/glenfiddichs-tour-of-desaru.html' target="_blank">again</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVS_A-_nI/AAAAAAAALYM/PKEl5fU0Zpg/s1600-h/IMG_1391.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVS_A-_nI/AAAAAAAALYM/PKEl5fU0Zpg/s400/IMG_1391.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394350607068757618" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVSZuq-nI/AAAAAAAALYE/rwy6pQiwljg/s1600-h/IMG_1392.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVSZuq-nI/AAAAAAAALYE/rwy6pQiwljg/s400/IMG_1392.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394350597059836530" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvwAbZX-BI/AAAAAAAALKo/t7VyfvUBNbc/s1600-h/IMG_1149.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvwAbZX-BI/AAAAAAAALKo/t7VyfvUBNbc/s400/IMG_1149.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394168868851152914" /></a><br />Not quite.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvv_z7-01I/AAAAAAAALKg/FdznepzqaPw/s1600-h/IMG_1150.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvv_z7-01I/AAAAAAAALKg/FdznepzqaPw/s400/IMG_1150.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394168858258887506" /></a><br />There!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvwq1MgliI/AAAAAAAALLA/SbcP0cBRfnM/s1600-h/IMG_1157.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvwq1MgliI/AAAAAAAALLA/SbcP0cBRfnM/s400/IMG_1157.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394169597331019298" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvwqQ_vVnI/AAAAAAAALK4/2EnmQEqxbpg/s1600-h/IMG_1160.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvwqQ_vVnI/AAAAAAAALK4/2EnmQEqxbpg/s400/IMG_1160.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394169587613783666" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvwp7iDt6I/AAAAAAAALKw/zI-5SQNpl2s/s1600-h/IMG_1163.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvwp7iDt6I/AAAAAAAALKw/zI-5SQNpl2s/s400/IMG_1163.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394169581852145570" /></a><br />Watermelon fields.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVR-FKwiI/AAAAAAAALX8/hrLDchMbQYU/s1600-h/IMG_1397.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVR-FKwiI/AAAAAAAALX8/hrLDchMbQYU/s400/IMG_1397.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394350589638001186" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxW9ofKsI/AAAAAAAALLY/rxTopCh3PKs/s1600-h/IMG_1165.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxW9ofKsI/AAAAAAAALLY/rxTopCh3PKs/s400/IMG_1165.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170355510094530" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">No rest for the wicked.</span><br />No sleep for the damned.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxWKfR3gI/AAAAAAAALLQ/iFber497ywU/s1600-h/IMG_1167.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxWKfR3gI/AAAAAAAALLQ/iFber497ywU/s400/IMG_1167.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170341781265922" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WOvZCulZyZM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WOvZCulZyZM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Nic rides his Surly fixie north, past numerous oil palm plantations, along an undulating road (J173) to the fishing village of Sedili Kecil.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxVtQslxI/AAAAAAAALLI/yPuyU65Sl0s/s1600-h/IMG_1169.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvxVtQslxI/AAAAAAAALLI/yPuyU65Sl0s/s400/IMG_1169.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170333935474450" /></a><br />Lamp post FAIL.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx8nSQwgI/AAAAAAAALLw/_DO0G3iq4ss/s1600-h/IMG_1171.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx8nSQwgI/AAAAAAAALLw/_DO0G3iq4ss/s400/IMG_1171.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394171002346324482" /></a><br />#@$%!!! gravity!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx8KILoWI/AAAAAAAALLo/E_-H3laO-SQ/s1600-h/IMG_1173.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx8KILoWI/AAAAAAAALLo/E_-H3laO-SQ/s400/IMG_1173.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170994519417186" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVRjIsuDI/AAAAAAAALX0/BEi6ePoOrHE/s1600-h/IMG_1406E.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVRjIsuDI/AAAAAAAALX0/BEi6ePoOrHE/s400/IMG_1406E.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394350582405052466" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx7oaAKSI/AAAAAAAALLg/yFnq0ChmYZM/s1600-h/IMG_1174.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvx7oaAKSI/AAAAAAAALLg/yFnq0ChmYZM/s400/IMG_1174.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170985467357474" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvyoLvpYlI/AAAAAAAALMI/HIE5qpf_YFE/s1600-h/IMG_1177.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvyoLvpYlI/AAAAAAAALMI/HIE5qpf_YFE/s400/IMG_1177.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394171750867624530" /></a><br />The <a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/R1XAfXtLKJI/AAAAAAAADHA/Wf0uxlLP-Oc/s1600-h/IMG_6078.JPG' target="_blank">lalang fields</a> — last seen on a <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2007/11/sedili-kecil-coastal-ride.html' target="_blank">Nov 2007 ride</a> — on the left have been razed for cultivation.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvyncaQgTI/AAAAAAAALMA/IUi_4jWamag/s1600-h/IMG_1180.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvyncaQgTI/AAAAAAAALMA/IUi_4jWamag/s400/IMG_1180.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394171738161447218" /></a><br />Bridge over Sungai Sedili Kecil.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvynEGuoUI/AAAAAAAALL4/00Jq4iOkffQ/s1600-h/IMG_1182.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvynEGuoUI/AAAAAAAALL4/00Jq4iOkffQ/s400/IMG_1182.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394171731637084482" /></a><br />6:28 PM.<br /><br />Across the road from the sign is the entrance to <a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/RzFw0zgdXEI/AAAAAAAAC7g/X_mxlqwAzRA/s1600-h/IMG_5946.JPG' target="_blank">Sedili Country Resort</a>, where I bunked over on my <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2007/11/sedili-mega-loop-ride.html' target="_blank">2007 Sedili Mega Loop Ride</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StviMC96QjI/AAAAAAAALGg/4GFvnLIrWZQ/s1600-h/JasonBayResortOct2009.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StviMC96QjI/AAAAAAAALGg/4GFvnLIrWZQ/s400/JasonBayResortOct2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394153675289150002" /></a><br />We reached Jason's Bay Resort at 7:15 PM.<br />Temperature 80° F (26.7° C)<br /><br />Jason's Bay Resort<br />Tel 607-234-8861<br />019-70408324<br />Mr. Amran bin Abdullah<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVyPhaXvI/AAAAAAAALYs/wTUL77poUWE/s1600-h/IMG_1411.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVyPhaXvI/AAAAAAAALYs/wTUL77poUWE/s400/IMG_1411.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394351144075681522" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvzb9zyYsI/AAAAAAAALMg/v7OBNLfWcTs/s1600-h/IMG_1189.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stvzb9zyYsI/AAAAAAAALMg/v7OBNLfWcTs/s400/IMG_1189.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394172640480092866" /></a><br />As there were many other guests (the place was almost full), the in-house restaurant was open.<br /><br />2 <span style="font-style: italic;">sup ayam</span> (Malaysian Chicken Soup)<br />2 <span style="font-style: italic;">ayam goreng</span> (Fried Chicken)<br />4 <span style="font-style: italic;">nasi goreng cina</span> (Fried Rice - Chinese Style)<br />4 <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandung_(drink)' target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">bandung</span></a> (Milk flavored with rose cordial)<br /><br />As we dined, the mosquitos dined on us. Later, a crowd of men arrived — smoking — and the gnats went off to get their own Marlboro.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVxxufgHI/AAAAAAAALYk/Cuxgygaq6ms/s1600-h/IMG_1412.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVxxufgHI/AAAAAAAALYk/Cuxgygaq6ms/s400/IMG_1412.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394351136077480050" /></a><br />Did I say this is a Halloween Ride? Well, here's <a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/St3m1saz6-I/AAAAAAAALY8/_cWNeD-zQtU/s1600-h/Skeletor.bmp' target="_blank">Skeletor</a>. <br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVxXHYvtI/AAAAAAAALYc/-lV5YFqia9A/s1600-h/IMG_1417.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StyVxXHYvtI/AAAAAAAALYc/-lV5YFqia9A/s400/IMG_1417.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394351128934137554" /></a><br />(Picture credit: NicIz2HardKore)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvzbdPc1XI/AAAAAAAALMY/rS09cm8KweU/s1600-h/IMG_1184.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvzbdPc1XI/AAAAAAAALMY/rS09cm8KweU/s400/IMG_1184.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394172631737750898" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DATA</span><br /><br />Start 11:10 AM<br />End 7:15 PM<br />Total 8 hours 5 minutes<br /><br />Cateye <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/05/cateye-cc-at-100-or-love-me-two-times.html' target="_blank">AT-100</a><br />Elevation climbed 1150 ft (350.6 m)<br />Distance 63 miles (100.8 km)<br />4 hours 53 minutes 45 seconds<br />Average speed 12.9 mph<br />Maximum speed 30.9 mph<br />Temperature 80° F - 98° F (26.7° C - 36.7° C)<br />Cumulative distance 63 miles (100.8 km)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvzaymsUNI/AAAAAAAALMQ/_JNjEbGb_0Q/s1600-h/IMG_1190.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvzaymsUNI/AAAAAAAALMQ/_JNjEbGb_0Q/s400/IMG_1190.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394172620292509906" /></a><br />Day 2<br />7:30 AM.<br />Boiling water for coffee with the <a href='http://www.jetboil.com' target="_blank">JetBoil™</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0Ivv0zUI/AAAAAAAALM4/BvAKB9MuMpE/s1600-h/IMG_1193.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0Ivv0zUI/AAAAAAAALM4/BvAKB9MuMpE/s400/IMG_1193.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394173409799490882" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0IDhQ7vI/AAAAAAAALMw/Bw9racC4MsE/s1600-h/IMG_1197.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0IDhQ7vI/AAAAAAAALMw/Bw9racC4MsE/s400/IMG_1197.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394173397927259890" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0HXrvziI/AAAAAAAALMo/7Ydns-h5W7A/s1600-h/IMG_1194.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv0HXrvziI/AAAAAAAALMo/7Ydns-h5W7A/s400/IMG_1194.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394173386160066082" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv01wNyn-I/AAAAAAAALNQ/lFdO2Zrddig/s1600-h/IMG_1196.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv01wNyn-I/AAAAAAAALNQ/lFdO2Zrddig/s400/IMG_1196.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174183019290594" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv01dBdJ9I/AAAAAAAALNI/TvXEi3n1vq0/s1600-h/IMG_1199.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv01dBdJ9I/AAAAAAAALNI/TvXEi3n1vq0/s400/IMG_1199.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174177867278290" /></a><br />10:25 AM.<br />Temperature 91° F (32.8° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv00_n3CAI/AAAAAAAALNA/WFk1TTP5YPI/s1600-h/IMG_1200.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv00_n3CAI/AAAAAAAALNA/WFk1TTP5YPI/s400/IMG_1200.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174169975293954" /></a><br />Having assumed all cattle by the road to be cows, Nic taunted a bull.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SzBvnKjyQiI/AAAAAAAALgk/2h-FffwbYJI/s1600-h/HolyCowErrBull.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SzBvnKjyQiI/AAAAAAAALgk/2h-FffwbYJI/s400/HolyCowErrBull.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417953070366736930" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Pedal, Nic! <strike>Pedal</strike> Paddle! Damn it!</span><br /><br />:-D<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1bEpiA8I/AAAAAAAALNo/T_-Ahryksxk/s1600-h/IMG_1201.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1bEpiA8I/AAAAAAAALNo/T_-Ahryksxk/s400/IMG_1201.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174824159511490" /></a><br />Peace! <br /><br />(Or, is it, "You two need brains!" or "You need 2 motorcycles!"?)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1avS4EAI/AAAAAAAALNg/UOTb2ogkz7Q/s1600-h/IMG_1202.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1avS4EAI/AAAAAAAALNg/UOTb2ogkz7Q/s400/IMG_1202.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174818427342850" /></a><br />At the junction of J172 and J173 is first traffic signal since arriving at Tanjung Pengelih.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1Z0JiYaI/AAAAAAAALNY/dZ_wcWyORn8/s1600-h/IMG_1203.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv1Z0JiYaI/AAAAAAAALNY/dZ_wcWyORn8/s400/IMG_1203.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394174802550481314" /></a><br />5 <span style="font-style: italic;">roti canai telur</span> (Malaysian flatbread with egg)<br />1 <span style="font-style: italic;">roti canai kosong</span> (Malaysian flatbread, plain)<br />1 <span style="font-style: italic;">nasi lemak</span> (Steamed rice with coconut cream)<br />2 iced-<span style="font-style: italic;">teh</span> (Iced tea)<br />1 <span style="font-style: italic;">kopi-o</span> (Coffee without milk)<br />6 bottles of mineral water (The <span style="font-style: italic;">only</span> form of water <strike>high</strike> hind-end TRY-athletes drink)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv18YomO-I/AAAAAAAALOA/vg5tLxuQdQ8/s1600-h/IMG_1204.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv18YomO-I/AAAAAAAALOA/vg5tLxuQdQ8/s400/IMG_1204.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394175396459985890" /></a><br />'Dodged a soaking when a thunderstorm passed by.<br /><br />The water is brown not due to mud (it's an asphalt road) but <strike>government propaganda</strike> cow manure.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv174OAl_I/AAAAAAAALN4/AEJbTYa8vVo/s1600-h/IMG_1205.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv174OAl_I/AAAAAAAALN4/AEJbTYa8vVo/s400/IMG_1205.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394175387758532594" /></a><br /> !!!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TjkwDwCvAgU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TjkwDwCvAgU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv17OQKKKI/AAAAAAAALNw/vOSw5y7b4p8/s1600-h/IMG_1212.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv17OQKKKI/AAAAAAAALNw/vOSw5y7b4p8/s400/IMG_1212.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394175376493258914" /></a><br />On the east side of the bridge, a view of the fishing village of Sedili Besar. Apparently, accommodations are available there at a place called Le Club, but I have not been able to obtain further information about the place (apart from an expired phone number). FWIW, <a href='http://tanjungsutera.com' target="_blank">Tanjung Sutera Resort</a>, accessible via a turn eastwards north of the bridge, offers accommodations.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvjVDVCcLI/AAAAAAAALG4/2yZvo-LB5tw/s1600-h/IMG_1214R.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvjVDVCcLI/AAAAAAAALG4/2yZvo-LB5tw/s400/IMG_1214R.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394154929516605618" /></a><br />The road will eventually run along that ridge.<br /><br /><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;">Pain is only weakness leaving the body.</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2nlcBOFI/AAAAAAAALOY/2NE4uS5OZEc/s1600-h/IMG_1216.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2nlcBOFI/AAAAAAAALOY/2NE4uS5OZEc/s400/IMG_1216.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394176138631264338" /></a><br />Detailed road directions (created by Mazon) to Sedili Besar and Tanjung Sutera Resort can be found <a href='http://mazonrc.blogspot.com/2009/01/sedili-slope-trip-report.html' target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2m2N-RsI/AAAAAAAALOQ/jJ2VhmCMz7M/s1600-h/IMG_1217.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2m2N-RsI/AAAAAAAALOQ/jJ2VhmCMz7M/s400/IMG_1217.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394176125955884738" /></a><br />Tenggaroh.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2mno5kgI/AAAAAAAALOI/qUn2U9670BU/s1600-h/IMG_1220.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv2mno5kgI/AAAAAAAALOI/qUn2U9670BU/s400/IMG_1220.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394176122042290690" /></a><br />Surging ahead, chasing a dog, I left Nic behind. <br /><br />12:31 PM. After waiting for the better part of 20 minutes, I coasted back down the hill and discovered him walking his crippled bike.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3Z3CGd4I/AAAAAAAALOw/q5Mi81w8gRs/s1600-h/IMG_1221.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3Z3CGd4I/AAAAAAAALOw/q5Mi81w8gRs/s400/IMG_1221.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394177002347853698" /></a><br />What we got here?<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3ZYatm4I/AAAAAAAALOo/10KBTZixYNE/s1600-h/IMG_1222.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3ZYatm4I/AAAAAAAALOo/10KBTZixYNE/s400/IMG_1222.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394176994129582978" /></a><br />For some reason, the 15 mm wrench was missing from Nic's bag.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3YqxOQiI/AAAAAAAALOg/iLW-0j_Svz4/s1600-h/IMG_1223.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv3YqxOQiI/AAAAAAAALOg/iLW-0j_Svz4/s400/IMG_1223.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394176981875966498" /></a><br />My <a href='http://www.topeak.com/products/Tools/ALiEN_DX' target="_blank">Topeak Alien DX</a> has an emergency 15 mm wrench but it neither possess the leverage nor strength to remove the nut from a fixie axle. (The user manual states that it is to be used only for tightening — not <span style="font-style: italic;">removing</span> — pedals in an emergency.) We attempted it anyway and the jaws of the wrench flexed alarmingly. Nic elected to preserve his knuckles and stopped.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4GIQFQJI/AAAAAAAALPQ/8b-refGplTs/s1600-h/IMG_1224.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4GIQFQJI/AAAAAAAALPQ/8b-refGplTs/s400/IMG_1224.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394177762884141202" /></a><br />Passing motorists (most of them have 14 mm wrenches, but none had the coveted 15 mm) suggested that we hike to the nearest village to try our luck.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4FdsZ5eI/AAAAAAAALPE/J1OvQZAt1No/s1600-h/IMG_1225.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4FdsZ5eI/AAAAAAAALPE/J1OvQZAt1No/s400/IMG_1225.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394177751460210146" /></a><br />Road cycling shoes are only a little easier to hike in than <a href='http://www.lovelyish.com/686400970/beauty-hurts-when-youre-wearing-8-inch-heels' target="_blank">8-inch heels</a>, so Nic does his impression of a Hobbit.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4EjgcJWI/AAAAAAAALO4/_ClX8JsZ80M/s1600-h/IMG_1226.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv4EjgcJWI/AAAAAAAALO4/_ClX8JsZ80M/s400/IMG_1226.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394177735840769378" /></a><br />1:15 PM. Tenggaroh Selatan 1.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv46MAP8KI/AAAAAAAALPs/syIKcO_cXqE/s1600-h/IMG_1227.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv46MAP8KI/AAAAAAAALPs/syIKcO_cXqE/s400/IMG_1227.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394178657244672162" /></a><br />Upon discovering the clinic closed, we wandered around for a while before another helpful motorist stopped by and offered the use of his tools.<br /><br />No such luck. Lots of 14 mm. No 15 mm.<br /><br />So, we trudge on.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv45OUw5RI/AAAAAAAALPk/iQGo7w4TXeQ/s1600-h/IMG_1228.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv45OUw5RI/AAAAAAAALPk/iQGo7w4TXeQ/s400/IMG_1228.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394178640687719698" /></a><br />The other Ti(e).<br /><br />Hur! Hur!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv44jOsShI/AAAAAAAALPc/6_KhYwkMGcM/s1600-h/IMG_1230.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv44jOsShI/AAAAAAAALPc/6_KhYwkMGcM/s400/IMG_1230.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394178629119527442" /></a><br />As the village has no shops, we walked from house to house, inquiring after the elusive tool.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv51HtdS3I/AAAAAAAALQE/6yF0qnioAKA/s1600-h/IMG_1229.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv51HtdS3I/AAAAAAAALQE/6yF0qnioAKA/s400/IMG_1229.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394179669704395634" /></a><br />A 15mm socket is finally found, but the thin, stamped steel walls are too weak to remove the 15 mm fixie axle nuts.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv50vx55UI/AAAAAAAALP8/faVJYBxj-48/s1600-h/IMG_1231.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv50vx55UI/AAAAAAAALP8/faVJYBxj-48/s400/IMG_1231.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394179663280596290" /></a><br />Hmm... what shall we do?<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv50J67jvI/AAAAAAAALP0/8K97wNNtPg4/s1600-h/IMG_1232.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv50J67jvI/AAAAAAAALP0/8K97wNNtPg4/s400/IMG_1232.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394179653117906674" /></a><br />The gentleman's wonderful friend went back to his home twice to search. The second time, he returned with a crescent (adjustable) wrench. Whee!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv66Gyj6cI/AAAAAAAALQc/sMHtrUmAlLw/s1600-h/IMG_1234.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv66Gyj6cI/AAAAAAAALQc/sMHtrUmAlLw/s400/IMG_1234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394180854868339138" /></a><br />The other guy also returned with another wrench; this time, the elusive 15 mm.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv65jFUQXI/AAAAAAAALQU/JNJ-KhLT6e4/s1600-h/IMG_1237.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv65jFUQXI/AAAAAAAALQU/JNJ-KhLT6e4/s400/IMG_1237.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394180845283328370" /></a><br /><strike>So much trouble can arise when a little rubber breaks.</strike><br /><strike>So much depends on a little rubber.</strike><br /><strike>The little prick that caused so much trouble.</strike><br /><br />The puncture.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv65KAyXbI/AAAAAAAALQM/dbiDxxMlcXc/s1600-h/IMG_1235.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv65KAyXbI/AAAAAAAALQM/dbiDxxMlcXc/s400/IMG_1235.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394180838553443762" /></a><br />"Here, keep this in event of future punctures."<br /><br />Thanks, guys!<br /><br />:-)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7nFAJN1I/AAAAAAAALQ0/4kiDQddwvWM/s1600-h/IMG_1236.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7nFAJN1I/AAAAAAAALQ0/4kiDQddwvWM/s400/IMG_1236.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394181627482552146" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7mklqXJI/AAAAAAAALQs/YdWpu_3yP8s/s1600-h/IMG_1238.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7mklqXJI/AAAAAAAALQs/YdWpu_3yP8s/s400/IMG_1238.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394181618781543570" /></a><br />Stress.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7mLRgczI/AAAAAAAALQk/VCV2fKYP7a8/s1600-h/IMG_1239.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv7mLRgczI/AAAAAAAALQk/VCV2fKYP7a8/s400/IMG_1239.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394181611986121522" /></a><br />2:17 PM. Back on the road.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/H3GOLqPutEo&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/H3GOLqPutEo&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8Ty3iTxI/AAAAAAAALRM/9JqOimxNjlc/s1600-h/IMG_1241.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8Ty3iTxI/AAAAAAAALRM/9JqOimxNjlc/s400/IMG_1241.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394182395708722962" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8TI0NC2I/AAAAAAAALRE/Ouu8OkF_lkI/s1600-h/IMG_1243.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8TI0NC2I/AAAAAAAALRE/Ouu8OkF_lkI/s400/IMG_1243.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394182384420457314" /></a><br />Heading in the opposite direction during my <a href='http://tinyurl.com/ThailandToSingaporeRide' target="_blank">2008 Thailand-to-Singapore Ride</a>, I missed this junction and ended up in Tenggaroh 6.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8Sl6E_SI/AAAAAAAALQ8/8nOTh8A_PAI/s1600-h/IMG_1247.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv8Sl6E_SI/AAAAAAAALQ8/8nOTh8A_PAI/s400/IMG_1247.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394182375049854242" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9DhGnnWI/AAAAAAAALRk/Xp6Q4uq79a4/s1600-h/IMG_1248.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9DhGnnWI/AAAAAAAALRk/Xp6Q4uq79a4/s400/IMG_1248.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183215573867874" /></a><br />Junction with Highway 3. There's a taxi stand and dispatch office here.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9DJgTO6I/AAAAAAAALRc/1NYzIu5u4oY/s1600-h/IMG_1249.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9DJgTO6I/AAAAAAAALRc/1NYzIu5u4oY/s400/IMG_1249.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183209239133090" /></a><br />4:04 PM. Drinks and ice-cream at a rest stop opposite the taxi stand.<br /><br />Distance covered today 30.4 miles (48.6 km)<br />Elevation climbed 1700 ft (518.3 m)<br />Temperature 95° F (35° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9CX4cx1I/AAAAAAAALRU/NaWWdFOGOIo/s1600-h/IMG_1252.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9CX4cx1I/AAAAAAAALRU/NaWWdFOGOIo/s400/IMG_1252.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183195918649170" /></a><br />President <a href='http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2009/10/05/is_mahmoud_ahmadinejad_jewish' target="_blank">Mahmoud Ahmadinejad</a>'s nuclear-powered <strike>motorcade</strike> motorbike.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9rov9DPI/AAAAAAAALR8/UQwQw75PKRs/s1600-h/IMG_1251.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9rov9DPI/AAAAAAAALR8/UQwQw75PKRs/s400/IMG_1251.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183904821054706" /></a><br />Bigfoot and the kitten.<br /><br />4:31 PM. Time to get going.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9rHQdRuI/AAAAAAAALR0/JCoeWM9n37U/s1600-h/IMG_1253.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9rHQdRuI/AAAAAAAALR0/JCoeWM9n37U/s400/IMG_1253.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183895830578914" /></a><br />Thankful for little mercies: the wide road shoulder on Highway 3 from Mersing extend here.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9qi4aJkI/AAAAAAAALRs/yfcIeXXg45A/s1600-h/IMG_1255.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv9qi4aJkI/AAAAAAAALRs/yfcIeXXg45A/s400/IMG_1255.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394183886066034242" /></a><br />5:25 PM. Nic's right pedal (non-drive side) comes loose — the first of many instances. Ah! The joys of reversing your crank orientation!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SvflgTSCjwI/AAAAAAAALaE/Ux4NpOlYN2o/s1600-h/KimYooSuk-1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SvflhXEvq6I/AAAAAAAALaM/YF172YzNX6M/s400/KimYooSuk.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402038639346559906" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-eEB1WHI/AAAAAAAALSU/Mh5zC1dKbgg/s1600-h/IMG_1257.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-eEB1WHI/AAAAAAAALSU/Mh5zC1dKbgg/s400/IMG_1257.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394184771137263730" /></a><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">NOOO! I DO NOT SUCK!!!</span></span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-du94mnI/AAAAAAAALSM/NaSG7FemTPc/s1600-h/IMG_1258.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-du94mnI/AAAAAAAALSM/NaSG7FemTPc/s400/IMG_1258.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394184765483555442" /></a><br />Onwards.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-dAEOoLI/AAAAAAAALSE/1cTDPF6p2f4/s1600-h/IMG_1259.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv-dAEOoLI/AAAAAAAALSE/1cTDPF6p2f4/s400/IMG_1259.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394184752893698226" /></a><br />The sun hangs low in the sky.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_QpuSNqI/AAAAAAAALSs/9wkO-HtB1uk/s1600-h/IMG_1260.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_QpuSNqI/AAAAAAAALSs/9wkO-HtB1uk/s400/IMG_1260.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394185640249276066" /></a><br />It's pedal-tighening time again!<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_QF5TZ4I/AAAAAAAALSk/Sdq3mU8UT_4/s1600-h/IMG_1261.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_QF5TZ4I/AAAAAAAALSk/Sdq3mU8UT_4/s400/IMG_1261.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394185630631815042" /></a><br />5:52 PM. A moment's inattention caused me to run over a large bolt, resulting in a rear tube puncture. Here, adore my beaming visage.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_PtSDvdI/AAAAAAAALSc/JApKdzIZAtA/s1600-h/IMG_1262.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_PtSDvdI/AAAAAAAALSc/JApKdzIZAtA/s400/IMG_1262.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394185624024759762" /></a><br />The puncture was interesting. A combination of a snake bite and spoke hole cookie-cutter punctures <span style="font-style: italic;">on both sides</span> of the tube. The Xero rim tape remained intact though.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_70ZwVgI/AAAAAAAALTE/AqjFR6GoovE/s1600-h/IMG_1263.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_70ZwVgI/AAAAAAAALTE/AqjFR6GoovE/s400/IMG_1263.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186381850334722" /></a><br />Mini-pumps look great and look trick until you actually get to use them by the side of the road. Then, you will drop to your knees and beg for the <a href='http://www.topeak.com/products/Mini-Pumps/RoadMorphG' target="_blank">Topeak Road Morph</a>, the <a href='http://www.lezyne.com/index.php/products/hand-pumps/micro-floor-drive-hp.html' target="_blank">Lezyne Micro Floor Drive</a>, or a friendly truck to run you over, sparing you from an — exhausting — impression of spastic roadside onanism.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_7J7QlhI/AAAAAAAALS8/qpOradBIC1M/s1600-h/IMG_1265.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_7J7QlhI/AAAAAAAALS8/qpOradBIC1M/s400/IMG_1265.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186370448135698" /></a><br />7:13 PM. Junction of Highway 3 and J172 / Highway 99. Realizing that it can't get much darker than this, we stopped to refuel.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_6qJ_05I/AAAAAAAALS0/gF-pAxUQ_ss/s1600-h/IMG_1266.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/Stv_6qJ_05I/AAAAAAAALS0/gF-pAxUQ_ss/s400/IMG_1266.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186361920017298" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAdqbxVPI/AAAAAAAALTc/tdlWdgYkVRU/s1600-h/IMG_1267.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAdqbxVPI/AAAAAAAALTc/tdlWdgYkVRU/s400/IMG_1267.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186963289986290" /></a><br />4 Ramlee Double <span style="font-style: italic;">Daging Lembu</span> Special Burger with <span style="font-style: italic;">Telur</span> (Double Beef burger with egg and cheese)<br />4 Cokes<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Hey, where did the ice come from?</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Who cares?</span><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAdFm0vUI/AAAAAAAALTU/4hY5O3_9fQs/s1600-h/IMG_1269.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAdFm0vUI/AAAAAAAALTU/4hY5O3_9fQs/s400/IMG_1269.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186953404235074" /></a><br />8:12 PM. Nic misses the turn off to Highway 99, via Highway 95, a route that would have saved us about 13 km.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/uq3rP_elbZM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/uq3rP_elbZM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Taking a break on an unplanned night ride along Highway 3.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAcnNpTgI/AAAAAAAALTM/coCaRgN2TPY/s1600-h/IMG_1271.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwAcnNpTgI/AAAAAAAALTM/coCaRgN2TPY/s400/IMG_1271.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394186945245564418" /></a><br />A stop at a gas station just before the junction to Kota Tinggi, Johor Bahru, and Desaru.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBCCzTDfI/AAAAAAAALT0/nCYyJjmhmjk/s1600-h/IMG_1272.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBCCzTDfI/AAAAAAAALT0/nCYyJjmhmjk/s400/IMG_1272.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394187588306406898" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBBnoi3ZI/AAAAAAAALTs/DG-4siBC9AA/s1600-h/IMG_1273.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBBnoi3ZI/AAAAAAAALTs/DG-4siBC9AA/s400/IMG_1273.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394187581013548434" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBBKtnmeI/AAAAAAAALTk/fU76tKZFaRs/s1600-h/IMG_1277.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBBKtnmeI/AAAAAAAALTk/fU76tKZFaRs/s400/IMG_1277.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394187573250202082" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBozqbDUI/AAAAAAAALUM/xov0Ja-eY44/s1600-h/IMG_1280.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBozqbDUI/AAAAAAAALUM/xov0Ja-eY44/s400/IMG_1280.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394188254257548610" /></a><br />What the pics and videos don't show: descending long, barely-seen stretches of asphalt in the dark, our paths only illuminated by anemic headlamps best meant for city streets; the palpable darkness; the roar of the wind, the flutter of helmet straps in our ears; and the subtle interplay of inky black forests and mountain ranges against the indigo blue night sky — a vast chiaroscuro with two infinitesimal figures slowly pedaling across the landscape.<br /><br />You had to be there.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvjUzFOjnI/AAAAAAAALGw/a0mqt2Pd3Io/s1600-h/FearOfTheDark.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvjUzFOjnI/AAAAAAAALGw/a0mqt2Pd3Io/s400/FearOfTheDark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394154925155323506" /></a><br />No, these were not waiting for us by the roadside, nor was <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Issei_Sagawa' target="_blank">Issei Sagawa</a>. (Though Nic did scare the living crap out of me later — <strike>you'd never seen me sprint up a hill so fast</strike> — but you will have to buy me a cup of coffee for that yarn.)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/St339xKbswI/AAAAAAAALZE/Dfmqt3PJGqM/s1600-h/PotholeToMoria.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/St339xKbswI/AAAAAAAALZE/Dfmqt3PJGqM/s400/PotholeToMoria.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394740569200898818" /></a><br />Truth be told, we were more worried about potholes. Thankfully, we didn't run into any of this size, or its wheel-flipping daughters.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBoGio2gI/AAAAAAAALUE/_lfs2EgiGTc/s1600-h/IMG_1282.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBoGio2gI/AAAAAAAALUE/_lfs2EgiGTc/s400/IMG_1282.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394188242145303042" /></a><br />11:07 PM. 29 km from Desaru, a truck stop after Air Tawar 5.<br /><br />Distance covered today 77.2 miles (123.5 km)<br />Elevation climbed 3480 ft (1061 m)<br />Temperature 77° F (25° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBnl1oubI/AAAAAAAALT8/YnKfctkkgb0/s1600-h/IMG_1283.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwBnl1oubI/AAAAAAAALT8/YnKfctkkgb0/s400/IMG_1283.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394188233366616498" /></a><br />The coffin nails / cancer sticks / cigarettes aren't mine.<br />(I don't smoke, I <a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/St2TDWaeiZI/AAAAAAAALY0/wG_KKTtFF38/s1600-h/StirrerOfGawd.jpg' target="_blank">stir</a>.)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCWh34HXI/AAAAAAAALUk/WJCdJYFXzRM/s1600-h/IMG_1284.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCWh34HXI/AAAAAAAALUk/WJCdJYFXzRM/s400/IMG_1284.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394189039756123506" /></a><br />Day 2 slides imperceptibly into Day 3.<br /><br />We left the truck stop at 12:45 AM.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZISiA9Wy9VU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZISiA9Wy9VU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />1 AM. Highway 92.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCWPKpLzI/AAAAAAAALUc/yHqZlWkXx48/s1600-h/IMG_1286.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCWPKpLzI/AAAAAAAALUc/yHqZlWkXx48/s400/IMG_1286.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394189034734563122" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCVkAjcaI/AAAAAAAALUU/Bgvif7wnwhY/s1600-h/IMG_1287.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwCVkAjcaI/AAAAAAAALUU/Bgvif7wnwhY/s400/IMG_1287.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394189023149519266" /></a><br />The turn off to the southern terminus of Highway 99 (Lok Heng / Bandar Easter / Wa Ha), our intended route, was utterly dark and desolated. I wonder what sort of adventures we would have run into had we not miss the turn off to Highway 95.<br /><br />Another time, perhaps.<br /><br />500 meters after this sign is the Petronas gas station that marks the turn off to Desaru (it was closed for the night).<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDaeMhIKI/AAAAAAAALU8/2YraWcn8Rp4/s1600-h/IMG_1289.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDaeMhIKI/AAAAAAAALU8/2YraWcn8Rp4/s400/IMG_1289.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190207000060066" /></a><br />4.7 km later, the traffic circle at the entrance to Desaru.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDZ2CptSI/AAAAAAAALU0/L1I77HTGifo/s1600-h/IMG_1290.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDZ2CptSI/AAAAAAAALU0/L1I77HTGifo/s400/IMG_1290.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190196221261090" /></a><br />1:52 AM.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvkimcW_GI/AAAAAAAALHA/YZk4gZ0I6Ys/s1600-h/DesaruDamaiResortReceiptOct2009-1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StvkimcW_GI/AAAAAAAALHA/YZk4gZ0I6Ys/s400/DesaruDamaiResortReceiptOct2009-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394156261792480354" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDZYqw6UI/AAAAAAAALUs/17JCDpGybEw/s1600-h/IMG_1292.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwDZYqw6UI/AAAAAAAALUs/17JCDpGybEw/s400/IMG_1292.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190188336441666" /></a><br />4:15 AM.<br /><br />No, we didn't see anything in the <a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIGxKY5y6Mg' target="_blank">mirror</a>.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DATA</span><br /><br />Start 10:25 AM<br />End 1:52 AM<br />Total 15 hours 27 minutes<br /><br />Cateye <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/05/cateye-cc-at-100-or-love-me-two-times.html' target="_blank">AT-100</a><br />Elevation climbed 3930 ft (1198.2 m)<br />Distance 90.1 miles (144.2 km)<br />8 hours 38 minutes 48 seconds [includes hike to Tenggaroh Selatan 1]<br />Average speed 12.2 mph<br />Maximum speed 32.2 mph<br />Temperature 75° F - 95° F (23.9° C - 35° C)<br />Cumulative distance 153.2 miles (245.2 km)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEEvfNb2I/AAAAAAAALVU/HDfqtX-S6sw/s1600-h/IMG_1293.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEEvfNb2I/AAAAAAAALVU/HDfqtX-S6sw/s400/IMG_1293.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190933196369762" /></a><br />10:24 AM. Pre-ride pedal tightening.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEEBT4F_I/AAAAAAAALVM/Il7nREJU6NE/s1600-h/IMG_1296.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEEBT4F_I/AAAAAAAALVM/Il7nREJU6NE/s400/IMG_1296.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190920800802802" /></a><br />First, there was <a href='http://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=9&ved=0CCEQFjAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Frmit.org.au%2Fbrowse%2FNews%2520and%2520Events%252FNews%252FAnnouncements%252Fby%2520title%252FM%2F&ei=ucvaSt-3Ns-BkQW7k-HJDg&usg=AFQjCNFXeyxG--8rAtFEHSQ4hd4k00Ic4A' target="_blank">Brookes Business School</a>, now...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEDQnfMRI/AAAAAAAALVE/NCjYeDbPmUQ/s1600-h/IMG_1297.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwEDQnfMRI/AAAAAAAALVE/NCjYeDbPmUQ/s400/IMG_1297.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394190907729719570" /></a><br />'Left Desaru Damai Resort at 10:50 AM.<br />We doubled back halfway to the Petronas gas station, and then cut through Bandar Penawar, circumventing a couple of hills.<br />Temperature 91° F (32.8° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE88ysgHI/AAAAAAAALVs/u0IFMNZeEDc/s1600-h/IMG_1298.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE88ysgHI/AAAAAAAALVs/u0IFMNZeEDc/s400/IMG_1298.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394191898840432754" /></a><br />Playing chicken with traffic on Highway 92.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE8AHAtJI/AAAAAAAALVk/mQAkD1V3Qr0/s1600-h/IMG_1299.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE8AHAtJI/AAAAAAAALVk/mQAkD1V3Qr0/s400/IMG_1299.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394191882551080082" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE7mQmTMI/AAAAAAAALVc/sNcld9wUgDk/s1600-h/IMG_1300.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwE7mQmTMI/AAAAAAAALVc/sNcld9wUgDk/s400/IMG_1300.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394191875611970754" /></a><br />Car loses!<br /><br />:-P<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF45IfMuI/AAAAAAAALWE/28MBccex62U/s1600-h/IMG_1302.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF45IfMuI/AAAAAAAALWE/28MBccex62U/s400/IMG_1302.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394192928650244834" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF4HB3yaI/AAAAAAAALV8/NxXrjrW-GFU/s1600-h/IMG_1305.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF4HB3yaI/AAAAAAAALV8/NxXrjrW-GFU/s400/IMG_1305.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394192915200723362" /></a><br />12:42 PM.<br />Distance covered today 20.3 miles (32.5 km)<br />Elevation climbed 630 ft (192 m)<br />Temperature 91° F (32.8° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF3gJb1HI/AAAAAAAALV0/ezAyVj7XPmE/s1600-h/IMG_1306.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwF3gJb1HI/AAAAAAAALV0/ezAyVj7XPmE/s400/IMG_1306.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394192904763462770" /></a><br />A bunch of unsuspecting cyclists heading into "Dog Alley" (no, I am not talking about <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_Development_Unit' target="_blank">SDN</a>).<br /><br />*grin*<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGgBK7abI/AAAAAAAALWc/ORznh-CgM-s/s1600-h/IMG_1308.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGgBK7abI/AAAAAAAALWc/ORznh-CgM-s/s400/IMG_1308.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394193600822864306" /></a><br /> Round 2.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGfvO617I/AAAAAAAALWU/8cpsN6MlKV4/s1600-h/IMG_1309.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGfvO617I/AAAAAAAALWU/8cpsN6MlKV4/s400/IMG_1309.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394193596007765938" /></a><br />22 km to the jetty via J52.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGfALqGLI/AAAAAAAALWM/YFOC2-Y8fJo/s1600-h/IMG_1310.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwGfALqGLI/AAAAAAAALWM/YFOC2-Y8fJo/s400/IMG_1310.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394193583377619122" /></a><br />2:40 PM.<br />Distance covered today 31.2 miles (49.2 km)<br />Elevation climbed 710 ft (216.5 m)<br />Temperature 89° F (31.7° C)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwHWfnKc7I/AAAAAAAALWs/2i7Ga3xQQ0I/s1600-h/IMG_1311.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwHWfnKc7I/AAAAAAAALWs/2i7Ga3xQQ0I/s400/IMG_1311.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394194536707290034" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwHV7T5xcI/AAAAAAAALWk/sxa1mqd8GhU/s1600-h/IMG_1313.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/StwHV7T5xcI/AAAAAAAALWk/sxa1mqd8GhU/s400/IMG_1313.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394194526962828738" /></a><br />4:09 PM. Back in Singapore, a bus driver behind the wheel of SBS2833B refused to follow traffic laws whilst approaching a filter lane at Telok Paku Road — cutting us off with the vehicle's rear wheels and nearly running us over. <br /><br />Wonderful. (And we have terrified / repressed lemmings on this <span style="font-style: italic;">wayang</span> island chastising us of the dangers of cycling on Malaysia roads at night.) <br /><br />Right.<br /><br />[To the guy in the picture (riding a red Cannondale R900), "Hi!"<br />^_^]<br /><br />After an easy ride along Changi Coast Road and a brief foray into East Coast Park — which we quickly ditched for East Coast Park Service Road — we concluded the ride at <a href='http://www.cyclecraftsg.com' target="_blank">Cycle Craft</a> with drinks, food, good company, drinks, drinks, and more drinks.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DATA</span><br /><br />Cateye <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/05/cateye-cc-at-100-or-love-me-two-times.html' target="_blank">AT-100</a><br />Total elevation climbed 5960 ft (1817 m)<br />Total distance 197.5 miles (316 km)<br />16 hours 26 minutes 59 seconds<br />Average speed 12 mph<br />Maximum speed 32.2 mph<br />Temperature 75° F - 98° F (23.9° C - 36.7° C)<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-51732485719684634462009-10-03T18:30:00.003+08:002009-10-21T02:17:32.676+08:00Never a bad time to ride!<br><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8njhRuRI/AAAAAAAALEY/Bv_Yw5vi-y4/s1600-h/RideAtDusk.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8njhRuRI/AAAAAAAALEY/Bv_Yw5vi-y4/s400/RideAtDusk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386512542070847762" border="0" /></a><br />As <a href="http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2005/12/bear-valley-trail-ride.html" target="_blank">a pair of cycling socks promised</a>...<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8nBFirbI/AAAAAAAALEQ/WrMbuSaRaTA/s1600-h/EddieInTree.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8nBFirbI/AAAAAAAALEQ/WrMbuSaRaTA/s400/EddieInTree.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386512532827712946" border="0" /></a><br />Look out for stuff falling from trees though.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8mn4ShdI/AAAAAAAALEI/esbT_X7-5yA/s1600-h/EveryoneRides.png" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SsC8mn4ShdI/AAAAAAAALEI/esbT_X7-5yA/s400/EveryoneRides.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386512526061241810" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, yes, it's technically a trike; still, that's no excuse. Ride!<br /><br />(<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SDQ31S0g0-I/AAAAAAAAEIQ/jPMv4gc4dRo/s1600-h/IMG_6667.JPG" target="_blank">NicIz2HardKore</a> and I are planning <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2009/10/tenggaroh-loop-ride.html' target="_blank">a little jaunt to Sedili Besar</a> from 9th to 11th Oct 2009.)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SscjwfBFAyI/AAAAAAAALEg/s2cPXBNO4rg/s1600-h/Goodnight.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SscjwfBFAyI/AAAAAAAALEg/s2cPXBNO4rg/s400/Goodnight.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388314795038802722" /></a><br /> Have a scary Halloween everyone!<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-42133575229894201352009-08-19T02:46:00.004+08:002009-08-19T12:50:35.700+08:00Carbon: Not so fast when overloaded with hydrocarbons<br><br /><object width="425" height="261"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Vn29DvMITu4&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Vn29DvMITu4&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="261"></embed></object><br /><br />Here's something to rile the pretentious, obnoxious, wannabe <a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehpxIrCNiVI' target="_blank">Speed Racer</a> poseurs out there.<br /><br />You know? The sort who rave about losing 200 grams with their aerodynamic, wind-tunnel-tested, seamless, OCLV-formed, clean-room-assembled, high-modulus carbon fiber rims, lovingly custom polished between the nubile thighs of former Baltic state virgins before delivery...<br /><br />And then proceed to gain 2 kg from pigging out on brownies and ice-cream.<br /><br />Do you see <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_tanker' target="_blank">oil tankers</a> built from carbon fiber beating <a href='http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Go-fast_boat' target="_blank">cigarette boats</a>?<br /><br />Didn't think so.<br /><br />Some riders are all talk; some, all fats; others, all engine.<br /><br />You know what?<br /><br /><a href='http://www.bikerfox.com' target="_blank">Biker Fox</a> has more street cred than you.<br /><br />Anytime.<br /><br /> <a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mreErTRxrLQ' target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Tequila!</span></a><br /><br />:-P<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-30073527853041787212009-08-13T06:10:00.003+08:002009-08-13T06:16:51.179+08:00Awareness Test II<br><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ubNF9QNEQLA"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ubNF9QNEQLA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Rz-ph32CnJA"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Rz-ph32CnJA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><br />You are (I hope) taking these tests seated behind a desk. Now imagine attempting the equivalent whilst piloting a 1.5-ton car, a 2-ton SUV, a 12-ton truck, or a 20-ton bus. <br /><br />Or, <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">they</span></span> are taking the test.<br /><br />And, you are the cyclist.<br /><br /><br />Related post<br /><a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/03/awareness-test.html' target="_blank">Awareness Test</a><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-84539826440279541712009-07-23T21:38:00.002+08:002009-07-23T21:46:41.960+08:00Swiss precision<br><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tgVmq4UBJs4&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tgVmq4UBJs4&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />('Posting this more for personal reference as this Swiss rider's exploits has been posted all around the web.) Check out "Fabulous" Fabian Cancellara's incredible downhill in Stage 7 of the 2009 Tour de France. Delayed by a flat tire, he slices and dices the curves and bends to rejoin the peloton. Speed in kilometers per hour (1.6 km/h = 1 mile per hour).<br /><br />Watch how close he comes to the white convertible @ 69.2 km/h (43.25 mph) at the 3:34 minute mark.<br /><br />All set to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Symphony No. 25 in G minor.<br /><br />Ah, bliss!<br /><br />:-D<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-55582115334031686742009-07-11T18:16:00.001+08:002009-07-21T00:35:31.388+08:006:16 PM, Butterfly Trail<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SmSaptpst9I/AAAAAAAAK_w/t75YuE8Lvuk/s1600-h/IMG_0745R.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SmSaptpst9I/AAAAAAAAK_w/t75YuE8Lvuk/s400/IMG_0745R.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360579497897539538" /></a><br /><br /><blockquote>[H]<span style="font-style: italic;">eard of muscles? You know, those things that took billions of years to evolve into the splendid tools that now lie idle in the human body, because our so-smart brains would rather hitch a ride on some energy-guzzling toy. Meanwhile our waistlines expand and our hearts wither.<br /><br />What is wrong with a riding a bike or simply walking?</span><br /></blockquote> (Michael McGrath)<br /><br /><br />Related post<br /><br /><a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2007/12/images-from-butterfly-trail.html' target="_blank">Images from Butterfly Trail</a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-58611030374269790412009-05-31T18:27:00.003+08:002009-05-31T18:39:38.809+08:00Munda Biddi Trail Stage 1 Ride Report complete<br><br />The ride reports for the <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/11/munda-biddi-trail-stage-1-mundaring-to.html' target="_blank">Munda Biddi Trail Stage 1 Ride</a> are now complete.<br /><br />For the convenience of current readers, this post will remain up for a couple of weeks.<br /><br />Thanks for sharing this journey :-)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Status: <span style="font-style: italic;">complete</span></span><br /> — <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/11/munda-biddi-trail-stage-1-day-13.html' target="_blank"><FONT COLOR="#FF0000">Day 13</FONT COLOR></a> added 31 May 2009<br /> — <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/11/munda-biddi-trail-stage-1-epilogue.html' target="_blank"><FONT COLOR="#FF0000">Epilogue</FONT COLOR></a> added 31 May 2009<br /><br /><a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/11/munda-biddi-trail-stage-1-mundaring-to.html' target="_blank">Tour index page</a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-60781716613071817082009-04-29T21:20:00.000+08:002009-04-30T05:40:27.022+08:00Handling skills<br><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Z19zFlPah-o&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Z19zFlPah-o&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />A video featuring <a href="http://www.dannymacaskill.co.uk"> Danny MacAskill</a>.<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-53964092942673339002009-04-01T07:18:00.001+08:002009-04-01T19:21:28.720+08:00Pro-Rider Racing Tip #2078<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SdNNlbl_67I/AAAAAAAAKfI/GSggKAu7H68/s1600-h/ProRiderTip2078.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SdNNlbl_67I/AAAAAAAAKfI/GSggKAu7H68/s400/ProRiderTip2078.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319680890312321970" /></a><br /><br /><br />From the hardcore pro-riders stepping into the season of serious racing, here's a tip on how to maximize your nutritional needs while minimizing weight penalties.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">'Coz ya know? Either end, either way, it all comes out the same.</span><br /></blockquote> <br /><br /><br />Dig in, folks!<br /><br />:-P<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-57281411100683868142009-03-19T10:00:00.001+08:002009-04-03T10:36:45.183+08:00Brooks and Carradice<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScGjs3OG-6I/AAAAAAAAKVg/N9-mPXEQWXc/s1600-h/IMG_0645.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScGjs3OG-6I/AAAAAAAAKVg/N9-mPXEQWXc/s400/IMG_0645.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314709026406595490" /></a><br />Leather and wood, iron and titanium.<br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/RuZi6V5Mf_I/AAAAAAAAChQ/O8MV4lvRVHE/s1600-h/IMG_2776A.JPG' target="_blank">Peter</a> passed me his touring saddle and saddlebag.<br /><br /><strike>I'm not worthy!</strike><br /><strike>I'm not worthy!</strike><br /><br />Thanks, dude :-D<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEIN4RxXCI/AAAAAAAAKUo/A6rlAAdvisY/s1600-h/IMG_0624.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEIN4RxXCI/AAAAAAAAKUo/A6rlAAdvisY/s400/IMG_0624.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314538069812141090" /></a><br />The 410 gram Brooks™ <a href='http://www.brooksengland.com/shop/shopProductDetail.aspx?id=uid-20070521.173530.718.7500-7-00145E457A63-------------------26' target="_blank">B-17 Champion Special</a> is a beauty.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINTDyBXI/AAAAAAAAKUg/D2bu1u4QiJk/s1600-h/IMG_0627.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINTDyBXI/AAAAAAAAKUg/D2bu1u4QiJk/s400/IMG_0627.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314538059821352306" /></a><br />As part of the upgrades over the 525 gram <a href='http://www.brooksengland.com/shop/shopProductDetail.aspx?id=uid-20070521.173730.671.8750-6-00145E457A63-------------------34' target="_blank">standard B-17</a>, the leather is chamfered at the skirts; the rivets are larger; are of solid copper, and are hammered in by hand. The 2 loops at the rear are for hanging saddlebags.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/z9w-y24Waz4&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/z9w-y24Waz4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />It took 3 days to fabricate this fella.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINWyCK9I/AAAAAAAAKUY/m7mAfNmgrY4/s1600-h/IMG_0628.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINWyCK9I/AAAAAAAAKUY/m7mAfNmgrY4/s400/IMG_0628.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314538060820655058" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aYirlnS19-s&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aYirlnS19-s&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINID2cFI/AAAAAAAAKUQ/dZHAQwQAe6Y/s1600-h/IMG_0631.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEINID2cFI/AAAAAAAAKUQ/dZHAQwQAe6Y/s400/IMG_0631.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314538056868851794" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEIMmPahdI/AAAAAAAAKUI/TMXdFP5qxOc/s1600-h/IMG_0632.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEIMmPahdI/AAAAAAAAKUI/TMXdFP5qxOc/s400/IMG_0632.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314538047790548434" /></a><br />Apart from the copper rivets, zinc-coated bolt and nut, the rest of the hardware is titanium :-P<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJR19O0rI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/EJI8Qr8x8Ig/s1600-h/IMG_0635.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJR19O0rI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/EJI8Qr8x8Ig/s400/IMG_0635.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539237420225202" /></a><br />The 2-liter capacity Carradice™ <a href='http://www.carradice.co.uk/sqr-saddlepacks/zipped-roll.shtml' target="_blank">Zipped Roll Bag</a> is a beautiful piece of kit as well. Constructed from cotton duck, the 310 gram bag is accented by waterproofed aniline leather, and topped with a pewter-finish, anti-rust badge. (I'm of two minds as to whether to polish and restore the badge, or just leave it as it is.)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRRCu3FI/AAAAAAAAKVI/DX_BVty4ro8/s1600-h/IMG_0638.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRRCu3FI/AAAAAAAAKVI/DX_BVty4ro8/s400/IMG_0638.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539227511184466" /></a><br />A seatpost clamp prevents the 14 cm (diameter) x 30 cm bag from flopping around.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRdYloPI/AAAAAAAAKVA/FKA1ho6-IVY/s1600-h/IMG_0616.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRdYloPI/AAAAAAAAKVA/FKA1ho6-IVY/s400/IMG_0616.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539230824079602" /></a><br />Maggie made this :-)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRJ1NaeI/AAAAAAAAKU4/XWHaujmuxSA/s1600-h/IMG_0620.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRJ1NaeI/AAAAAAAAKU4/XWHaujmuxSA/s400/IMG_0620.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539225575418338" /></a><br />A wooden dowel and 2 self-taping screws form part of the upper support structure.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRNjj2-I/AAAAAAAAKUw/CWMmGVMUXjc/s1600-h/IMG_0622.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJRNjj2-I/AAAAAAAAKUw/CWMmGVMUXjc/s400/IMG_0622.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539226575133666" /></a><br />3 <a href='http://www.carradice.co.uk/accessories/straps.shtml' target="_blank">replaceable leather straps</a> are employed for attachment.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJwmBcEWI/AAAAAAAAKVY/mp_O9_AO0us/s1600-h/IMG_0644.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScEJwmBcEWI/AAAAAAAAKVY/mp_O9_AO0us/s400/IMG_0644.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314539765718847842" /></a><br />The 2 upper leather straps thread through the loops on the rear of the Brooks B-7 Champion Special and cinch the wooden dowel to it.<br /><br />I'm planning to spec these babies on my <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/07/1991-bridgestone-mb-0-zip.html' target="_blank">1991 Bridgestone MB-0 Zip</a>. The restoration project has been put on hold until I replace its stolen fork. (Anyone know of a Bridgestone MB series fork for sale? It has to be from a 46 cm (18.1") [center-to-center] frame or larger.)<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SdV1uXZvPkI/AAAAAAAAKfQ/1E-vPOfZl9s/s1600-h/DromartiSportivo.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SdV1uXZvPkI/AAAAAAAAKfQ/1E-vPOfZl9s/s400/DromartiSportivo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320287974224510530" /></a><br />Handcrafted in Italy by <a href='http://www.marresi.it' target="_blank">Marresi</a>, using soft leather, detailed stitching, and strategic vents, <a href='http://www.dromarti.com' target="_blank">Dromarti</a>'s Sportivo (or <a href='http://www.dromarti.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=10_12&products_id=17' target="_blank">Race</a>) would make the perfect complement to the setup.<br /><br><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScGoWxiJcdI/AAAAAAAAKVo/I9xufLEEGxc/s1600-h/Calvin_and_Hobbes_Cycling.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/ScGoWxiJcdI/AAAAAAAAKVo/I9xufLEEGxc/s400/Calvin_and_Hobbes_Cycling.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314714144481046994" /></a><br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-30017912723856890892009-02-08T23:54:00.002+08:002009-02-09T10:06:09.703+08:00Nic conquers Vigilante Drive on a fixie, beats Mt. Faber with face<br><br /><a href='http://fotologue.jp/plastyc' target="_blank">NicIz2HardKore</a> made it to the top of <a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=vigilante+drive,+singapore&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=36.778911,67.5&ie=UTF8&z=16&iwloc=addr' target="_blank">Vigilante Drive</a> on his vintage 44 x 17 Battaglin fixie. Mount Faber, however, was a little too coy with her curves, so he taught her a lesson, leaving a sheen of red on her flanks :-P<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjWXc54I/AAAAAAAAJxY/voYXeXhFvO0/s1600-h/NicFaberCrash1.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjWXc54I/AAAAAAAAJxY/voYXeXhFvO0/s400/NicFaberCrash1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300572441970272130" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjc6UnlI/AAAAAAAAJxQ/erssAIuNWCY/s1600-h/NicFaberCrash2.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjc6UnlI/AAAAAAAAJxQ/erssAIuNWCY/s400/NicFaberCrash2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300572443727142482" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjKh06UI/AAAAAAAAJxI/bLTNCestshs/s1600-h/NicFaberCrash3.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjKh06UI/AAAAAAAAJxI/bLTNCestshs/s400/NicFaberCrash3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300572438792563010" /></a><br /><br><br /><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjHMX5xI/AAAAAAAAJxA/WqZdJOTRkD0/s1600-h/NicFaberCrash4.jpg' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SY9qjHMX5xI/AAAAAAAAJxA/WqZdJOTRkD0/s400/NicFaberCrash4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300572437897275154" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The <strike>juicy</strike> squishy details</span><br /><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : PHEAR<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : !!!!!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : I MADE IT UP VIGILANTE<br />ON FIXIE!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : holy shit! fark!<br />u da man!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : :-)<br />i used my face as a brake again<br />fuck it hurts<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : !!!<br />on the way down?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : we went vigilante, buona vista, NUS, pepys and faber<br />by the time we got to faber i was pretty damn tired<br />i fell off the bike on the way down<br />on the straight before the corner where i crashed 2 years ago<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : yeoch<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : i was too tired to stop the bike<br />and then it started wobbling<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : yeow<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : and i just went off the right side and the bike bounced away<br />went off as in literally fell off<br />poor brooks saddle :-(<br />but yes, calling my bike the battleship is pretty apt<br />no marks<br />no denting<br />minor scratches on handlebar<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : BATTLESHIP!!!!!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : YES BATTLESHIP! NIGH ON INDESTRUCTIBLE!<br />got poked by handlebar though<br />seems my wonky collarbone is fixed too<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br />holy shitzoid<br />extreme knuckle manicure<br />fark! road rash<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : oh yeah<br />haven't taken a pic of my face and back<br />i rolled over<br />and left a nice red trail on the road<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : tore my jersey to shreds<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : who went with u<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : hmm<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : argh!!!!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : my coach, and 2 teammates<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : luckily it was a $20 jersey<br />oh btw, pretty funny<br />all 4 bike materials were present at the ride<br />ti, steel, alu, carbon<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br />u were not kidding about da face<br />holy shitz<br />this is worhy of a post!!!!<br />fark! shoulder abrasion<br />i shudder to see pic of bike and jersey<br />so this crash was vigilante or faber?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : faber :-0<br />right before we went home<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : i got spent on vigilante<br />skipped pepys and waited for the rest at the foot<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : helmet survived?<br />so gearing was 44 x 17?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : helmet merely touched the ground<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : damn<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : didn't get scratched :-(<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : shitz<br />i am gonna post this<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : 44 x 17, as usual<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : !!!!!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : LOL<br />for some strange inexplicable reason, i found blood in my riding shorts<br />somehow my nuts got cut :-S<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : holy shitz<br />goddamn<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : no freaking idea how<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : so this was tonite?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : this morning :-)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : so, u r joining the Secret Fraternity of the Torn Scrotum. <br />Your member ID is 002<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : leaving me enough time to pass out at home to wake up with various fabric items stuck to my face<br />LOL<br />now i know how vasectomy feels like, without the neutering :-P<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : goddamn<br />u da man<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : hint: it hurts/burns <br />showering was literally an eye opening experience<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : i will pay u a cup of teh tarik for every wad of alcohol swab i toss at you that hits a red spot<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : FUUCK!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BEN</span> : send pics!!!!<br />LOL<br />MOAR!!!!<br />:-D<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NIC</span> : that's all, unfortunately<br /></blockquote><br /><br /><br />Get well soon, Nic!<br /><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Further reading</span><br /><br />July 2008 — Nic smashes taxi cab with face (<a href='http://www.togoparts.com/showroom/viewpic.php?srid=14&file=20080723232237936.jpg' target="_blank">1</a>), (<a href='http://www.togoparts.com/showroom/viewpic.php?srid=14&file=20080723232343770.jpg' target="_blank">2</a>), (<a href='http://www.togoparts.com/showroom/viewpic.php?srid=14&file=20080723232621095.jpg' target="_blank">3</a>).<br /><br><br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-71915903046413424912009-01-21T17:00:00.001+08:002009-01-21T17:03:32.659+08:00Better than Buff<br><br /><a href='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SXbkU5n9n-I/AAAAAAAAJlo/7K4OR3vemxQ/s1600-h/IMG_0542.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SXbkU5n9n-I/AAAAAAAAJlo/7K4OR3vemxQ/s400/IMG_0542.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293669459737550818" /></a><br />And no one can deny it!<br /><br />Thanks, Pete!<br /><br />:-D<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18306646.post-86893944542122827192009-01-21T16:12:00.000+08:002009-01-21T18:22:44.772+08:00Michael's Singapore — Ranong Solo Ride<br><br /><a href='http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SPM_NQLHnyI/AAAAAAAAHPg/Ck-7fpJfDLQ/s1600-h/IMG_7771.JPG' target="_blank"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_VY9lef3Ripw/SPM_NQLHnyI/AAAAAAAAHPg/Ck-7fpJfDLQ/s400/IMG_7771.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256614686983954210" /></a><br /><br />Michael, whom I met whilst <a href='http://pedaldamnit.blogspot.com/2008/09/thailand-to-singapore-via-east-coast-of_24.html' target="_blank">riding south from Pekan</a> last September, just posted his complete ride report. <br /><br />Read all about his jaw-dropping 1038 mile (1671 km) solo ride <a href='http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/4598' target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />Congratulations, Mike!<br /><br />:-D<br /><br>-benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05192310743432432356noreply@blogger.com0