What did YOU do on Saturday night?
I spent the part of the evening prepping my mountain bike (a 2006 Trek Fuel EX 8) for the Fruita Fat Tire Festival with some upgrades. More specifically, new grips and tires.
Ergon GX1 Grips
The grips are Ergon GX1; the rental bike I used in New Zealand had a similar set and I loved them. The grips are surprisingly lightweight and were pleasurably easy to install when compared to traditional rubber slide on grips. According to the manufacturer the ergonomically correct design should increase the amount of contact my hand has with the grip, thus decreasing the likelihood of numbness. All I can say is that stationary in my apartment the grips are extremely comfortable. I just have to hope the comfort and durability will stand up on the trail.
I have finally given in and bought a set of tubeless tires, Hutchinson Piranha XC Marathon MRC Tubeless. I have had tubeless comparable wheels since 2003, but have always feared flats (yes, I know you can just put a tube in) while on a ride. Undoubtedly if you have ever put in tubeless tires before, you can guess how smoothly this went. The first tire took almost an hour to get on. Assuming correctly I overexerted myself installing the first tire, I took to the internet and discovered that it is easier when you push the bead to the center of the rim. The second tire went on in about five minutes. Amazing… Of course, I did not have any sealant so I will just be hoping everything holds.
Now all I need is for the snow to melt so I can ride!