My Longbikes Slipstream arrived today! (initial review)
04-07-08, 07:53 PM
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My Longbikes Slipstream arrived today! (initial review)
It is rare that I would spend the kind of money on a new bike like the Slipstream without
having ever ridden one, but after ordering it some time ago, and having it arrive today, I
can say that I am more than pleased with it.
The fit and finish on this bike are just A++. The welds are beautiful, and I spent a few
extra bucks for a custom color (think Candy Metallic Green) that just pops when the
sun hits it! The powdercoat paint is even overall and possibly the best paintjob I have
seen on a bike. (think of the fun colors Klein used to use in the past & you'll have an
idea of this one).
The bike arrived in two boxes by freight carrier, and about 90 minutes from opening the
first box I had it fully assembled. It would have taken less time had I had a bikestand,
but doing it on the ground and a chair and being extra careful with my new steed added
a lot more time. Once together, it takes more time to adjust it to your personal liking,
and I imagine I will be 'fiddlin' with it for some time to come! Besides the bar ends and
the angle of the USS steering bars, the seat alone is almost infinitely adjustable. Back
and forth along the frame, more or less recline, higher or lower hinge, tighter or looser
straps on the mesh seeting, etc. One really coud spend many hours on this process.
Everything went together with a few allen wrenches and a phillips screwdriver. With
the exception of one loose bolt, everything else was tight as it should be. So far,
after a few test fits/rides, the only issue has been a high spot on the rear Avid disk.
After calling Greg direct at Longbikes, he told me it would be no problem to replace it
if it didn't wear in after a little time. I have no problem with that at all.
My particular set-up not only included the custom frame color, but 40 spoke wheels and
and xtra long frame. I also sprung for the fenders, rack mount accessory and meter
mount. The seat is stock, and since I have plentyy of my own personal padding
I assume it should be just fine. Oh, and I also sprung for the custom kickstand.
The bike itself is not light (I didn't weigh it but when lifting it I could tell this was not my
previous DF bike). Yet, when one gets out on it, you really don't seem to notice the
difference. (maybe if I drop a few lbs I will feel it -- who knows).
The initial ride took a tad getting used to, but it was not overly difficult at all. In fact,
it rode pretty much just like I expected it to. The main secret to the first ride is to
definitely make sure you are in a low gear. Trying to get going in a high gear is a non-
starter as the bike is just too squirrely to start while pushing down hard as you start.
Years ago I had a friend who had a tandem that steered from the front OR the back.
We would ride it as a single from the rear just to watch the looks of those who saw us
passing by. I expected the LB Slipstream to feel that way and it did. No problem.
So what's it like to ride? FUN!
I really like the USS. It is a nice, natural position for one's hands. The brakes and
shifting are easy and convenient. The ride itself is like a 'Cadillac' -- pretty smooth
with the superlong wheelbase absorbing the bumps. Initially I tended to oversteer
a bit, but it didn't take long to get less 'reactive' in my steering. I rode it to a local
parking lot 2 blocks away, and did a few loops in the lot. No one will ever confuse
this for a tight-turning radius bike, but it doesn't take long to get the hang of leaning
over and tightening up your turns.
Would I recommend this bike to others? YUP.
I bit because DF riding with arthitis in
my lower back was just becoming too painful, and my hands going numb was no longer
fun. Now I can genuinely look forward to riding again and without being in pain.
Longbike site: https://www.longbikes.com/
having ever ridden one, but after ordering it some time ago, and having it arrive today, I
can say that I am more than pleased with it.
The fit and finish on this bike are just A++. The welds are beautiful, and I spent a few
extra bucks for a custom color (think Candy Metallic Green) that just pops when the
sun hits it! The powdercoat paint is even overall and possibly the best paintjob I have
seen on a bike. (think of the fun colors Klein used to use in the past & you'll have an
idea of this one).
The bike arrived in two boxes by freight carrier, and about 90 minutes from opening the
first box I had it fully assembled. It would have taken less time had I had a bikestand,
but doing it on the ground and a chair and being extra careful with my new steed added
a lot more time. Once together, it takes more time to adjust it to your personal liking,
and I imagine I will be 'fiddlin' with it for some time to come! Besides the bar ends and
the angle of the USS steering bars, the seat alone is almost infinitely adjustable. Back
and forth along the frame, more or less recline, higher or lower hinge, tighter or looser
straps on the mesh seeting, etc. One really coud spend many hours on this process.
Everything went together with a few allen wrenches and a phillips screwdriver. With
the exception of one loose bolt, everything else was tight as it should be. So far,
after a few test fits/rides, the only issue has been a high spot on the rear Avid disk.
After calling Greg direct at Longbikes, he told me it would be no problem to replace it
if it didn't wear in after a little time. I have no problem with that at all.
My particular set-up not only included the custom frame color, but 40 spoke wheels and
and xtra long frame. I also sprung for the fenders, rack mount accessory and meter
mount. The seat is stock, and since I have plentyy of my own personal padding
I assume it should be just fine. Oh, and I also sprung for the custom kickstand.
The bike itself is not light (I didn't weigh it but when lifting it I could tell this was not my
previous DF bike). Yet, when one gets out on it, you really don't seem to notice the
difference. (maybe if I drop a few lbs I will feel it -- who knows).
The initial ride took a tad getting used to, but it was not overly difficult at all. In fact,
it rode pretty much just like I expected it to. The main secret to the first ride is to
definitely make sure you are in a low gear. Trying to get going in a high gear is a non-
starter as the bike is just too squirrely to start while pushing down hard as you start.
Years ago I had a friend who had a tandem that steered from the front OR the back.
We would ride it as a single from the rear just to watch the looks of those who saw us
passing by. I expected the LB Slipstream to feel that way and it did. No problem.
So what's it like to ride? FUN!
I really like the USS. It is a nice, natural position for one's hands. The brakes and
shifting are easy and convenient. The ride itself is like a 'Cadillac' -- pretty smooth
with the superlong wheelbase absorbing the bumps. Initially I tended to oversteer
a bit, but it didn't take long to get less 'reactive' in my steering. I rode it to a local
parking lot 2 blocks away, and did a few loops in the lot. No one will ever confuse
this for a tight-turning radius bike, but it doesn't take long to get the hang of leaning
over and tightening up your turns.
Would I recommend this bike to others? YUP.
I bit because DF riding with arthitis in my lower back was just becoming too painful, and my hands going numb was no longer
fun. Now I can genuinely look forward to riding again and without being in pain.
Longbike site: https://www.longbikes.com/
Last edited by Mr. Markets; 04-07-08 at 08:11 PM.
04-08-08, 12:40 AM
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Sounds like a lot of fun. I hope you enjoy it for a long time.
Please post pictures of your new ride.
Please post pictures of your new ride.
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04-08-08, 05:39 AM
#3
Senior Member
You can true those disc brake rotors with your thumb. In fact, it's not uncommon for heavy braking to eventually push them out of true, and that's how you fix them. Not surprising when you realize they have to deflect in order to work.
04-08-08, 07:10 AM
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There's also this option, which you could combine with some guages for your repair/truing stand.
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Recommended reading for all cyclists - Cyclecraft - Effective Cycling
Condor Cycles - quite possibly the best bike shop in London
Don't run red lights, wear a helmet, use hand signals, get some cycle lights(front and rear) and, FFS, don't run red lights!
shameless POWERCRANK plug
Recommended reading for all cyclists - Cyclecraft - Effective Cycling
Condor Cycles - quite possibly the best bike shop in London
Don't run red lights, wear a helmet, use hand signals, get some cycle lights(front and rear) and, FFS, don't run red lights!
04-08-08, 12:12 PM
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eh, with a new bike, i'll just get the rotor replaced if it doesn't wear in soon.
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04-08-08, 01:02 PM
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Awesome!
I have pictures of this bike on my PC I have been editing in paint for a concept bike I've been thinking about. I think it looks like a fine machine and I hope to see pics of yours soon.
I HAVE to ask....
Has it a name yet?
RD
I have pictures of this bike on my PC I have been editing in paint for a concept bike I've been thinking about. I think it looks like a fine machine and I hope to see pics of yours soon.
I HAVE to ask....
Has it a name yet?
RD
04-08-08, 03:26 PM
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I hadn't thought of naming it, but now that you mention it, I guess "The Green Machine" would work, eh?
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04-10-08, 05:23 AM
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Weight?
I can't find the weight in any of the specs., on the bike. The bike looks good but what's the weight on it?
04-10-08, 06:03 PM
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ummmm... I would guess around 32 lbs or so, maybe a bit more. doesn't really feel all that
heavy but then I am no lightweight to begin with so what do I know.
I will say I have been out on two rides, and get a lot of questions and several compliments
every time I stop anywhere.
heavy but then I am no lightweight to begin with so what do I know.
I will say I have been out on two rides, and get a lot of questions and several compliments
every time I stop anywhere.
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04-10-08, 06:27 PM
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Just be sure you don't apply a thumb right after a long downhill! (Yes. But I am wiser now.)
04-11-08, 01:10 AM
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not so "hot" an idea, eh?
04-11-08, 05:43 PM
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Nice bike congratulations! How tall are you? They look like their made for only big people. Specifications say X-seam 42" to 48" I'm right at 40" DRATS! Have fun with your new wheels. Post some photos of your bike when you get a chance Ay!
Ciao,
Timothy
Ciao,
Timothy
04-12-08, 01:35 AM
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well, I am just under 6'4", and actually ordered an x-long frame (4" longer). However, as Greg Peek
@ Longbikes actually hand makes these things one at a time, you can probably get any frame size
you want, including a shorter one. Give him a call, he will be happy to chat with you.
@ Longbikes actually hand makes these things one at a time, you can probably get any frame size
you want, including a shorter one. Give him a call, he will be happy to chat with you.
04-16-08, 04:44 AM
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I bought a slipstream with the same setup about three years ago. I spent more time adjusting the set and handlebars the first few month than riding it. It was worth the time to get everything just right. My bike weights in at 44lbs with all the racks, mounts, lights and bags. The bike is well worth the dollars and time to get it just right. One item that helped a lot is a mirror that is designed for mt. bikes it fits nicely on the end bar and can be adjusted to be out of the way of your hand.
04-16-08, 11:39 PM
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funny you mention that as I just ordered one the other day. i had though I would do a helmet
mirror, but they seem to flimsy and easy to lose...
and as for the Slipstream, I have ZERO regrets. I ended up with a loos rear shifter on the bars
that kept slipping after i tightened it worng, but now it's all good.
as a 'big guy' this really is an excellent bike. and so nice not to ride in pain.
mirror, but they seem to flimsy and easy to lose...
and as for the Slipstream, I have ZERO regrets. I ended up with a loos rear shifter on the bars
that kept slipping after i tightened it worng, but now it's all good.
as a 'big guy' this really is an excellent bike. and so nice not to ride in pain.
04-22-08, 07:14 PM
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Yo FatA**, we want to see a few pictures of your emerald jewel. You've had it now for a couple of weeks. Time for some photos. Put up, or shut up.
04-22-08, 11:09 PM
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y'know, I was just thinkin the same thing. Saturday is predicted sunshine, so I will snap a few pics then.
the 'Green Machine" really lights up in the sun!
sidebar: I went for a short ride tonight with one of my sons before it started to rain. This son is
13 yrs old and like 6"1" already. damn scary! Anyway, we wanted to try the bike, so I let him
(even though he had to slide down the seat and slouch a bit). Shoulda seen the smile on his face!
"I want one!"
the 'Green Machine" really lights up in the sun!
sidebar: I went for a short ride tonight with one of my sons before it started to rain. This son is
13 yrs old and like 6"1" already. damn scary! Anyway, we wanted to try the bike, so I let him
(even though he had to slide down the seat and slouch a bit). Shoulda seen the smile on his face!
"I want one!"
04-28-08, 02:08 PM
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I can't figure out how to get Picasa Images to open on this page so here are some links.
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88636895337074
Color is custom to me, no other Slipstream in this color...
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88602535598690
front to rear view
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88443621808706
rear to front view (color got washed out here)
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88636895337074
Color is custom to me, no other Slipstream in this color...
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88602535598690
front to rear view
https://picasaweb.google.com/drum.pla...88443621808706
rear to front view (color got washed out here)
04-28-08, 09:59 PM
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