I do understand the risks, but I don't like the look of the plastic things ("beauty is in the eye... yada, yada") so I choose to go without. I've had my Airborne for almost 17 years, my Trek for almost 18 years, and I have a Motobecane bought in 1975 which "lost" its protector shortly after I bought it... so I feel pretty comfortable.
sweeks Your statement brings new meaning to the phrase;
'Assumption of Risk'. You recognize the risk and elect to accept it.... What novel thinking in this day and age of the ugly warning labels and blame transference.
Additionally, I gotta says to ya...
What a *****'n ride ya got.
Situational awareness is the key. A bent derailer will give some indication that there is something wrong before you shift the bike into the spokes. The shifter and derailer don't shift a crisply as they should or the chain makes noise when a derailer is bent. On the other hand, if you feel the chain slide over into the spokes, you shouldn't mash down on the pedals.
Most of the time that a dork disc is needed is when someone wants to "adjust" their bike because it isn't shifting properly so they get out the screwdriver and start twisting screws without understanding what those screws really do. Once misadjusted, the limits are a bit difficult to set again...especially if you have no idea what you are doing in the first place.
cyccommute Again well stated. +1. (Again, I thank you for the referral to Rose for my DBL Butted Spokes.)
Today I replaced the cheap-o Shimano derailleur that came on my bike. I also found a 7sp cassette with good ratios for how I ride here in flat Florida. I also replaced the crud shift cable and housing. And I tossed the 'dork disk'. My butt now relies on my attention to the limit screws and understanding that all in life is a risk that I accept.
The only things that are left
'as built' on my 63.5cm Denali are the bars and brakes. Shoot, I like the frame and it's classic look. I also have a feeling of accomplishment changing out everything. Hey, you can build anything if you are handy with money.
Thanks all for all the input.
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