Originally Posted by Shilun
That was quick! The kettle hadn't even boiled!
Is the original extension adequate for you? I find that with the seatpost on the limit it's still too short (I'm about 6ft). Anyway, I swapped over the seatpost from my Halfway RS. It's 640mm end to end. It has a diameter of 28.6, but if I tighten down the QR it seems to hold. However, never having had to worry about seatposts before, I'm not sure if it's wise to continue riding it in this way.
Also, while we're on the subject of seatpost replacements, do you happen to know if any of the Dahon components would fit the KHS? I can't seem to find any detailed specs on their website - just pictures.
Regards,
Shilun
Heheheheeh. Ah, the joys (curse?) of "always on" internet connections.
Wow. Your RS had a *640mm* post?! CRAZY!
I would STRONGLY suggest you get a shim. Not as much of a problem with a steel frame like the Westwood but you want the torque force from the seat tube distributed over as large an area as possible. If there's any kind of gap, you get pressure points that I suspect could lead to excess fatigue. You might not exceed the fatigue limit of the steel but I'd put money on aluminum dying a quick and painful death. (I've seen it on aluminum road bikes - non folders)
There are shims to go from just about every size post to every other size seat tube. 28.6 to 29.2 is a pretty small gap - 0.3mm per side - so it'd probably be a rolled steel shim instead of the machined aluminum used for thick shims.
I would definitely like to get my hands on a taller post just to try out. I *think* I'm right where I need to be but I'd rather have more post than less and I have the "max extension" marks just below the top of the seat-tube.
I'm perusing the Dahon accessories myself! Being the largest folder mfg in the world, they keep a HUGE stock of parts and accessories. That makes it very easy to get stuff from them where things from, say KHS - practically impossible. They don't get super specific on some things like the diameter of their "super-sized" seat post (!) but I hear they're great at customer service. A few carefully worded emails should get you a response. Their forums are fantastic too. Their staff actually participate there so you can answers from the source.
I'm really loving the KHS! I pumped the Marathon tires (20x1.50's) to 100psi yesterday, up from 90. WHAT a ride! A bit more squirrely but the bike feels so fast. When I have a few $$$ to kick around, I might try a set of Primo Comet 20x1.35's... I hear they're the lowest RR of all tires in this class. (total slick)
When you get 'em, I look forward to pics of your KHS! With their relative obscurity in North America, I feel like I'm part of a cult! Did I ask you already where you found yours and where you're located?