Thread: Carbon Topstone
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Old 07-18-19 | 12:50 PM
  #64  
HankSc0rpi0
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Originally Posted by shoota
Good initial thoughts, thanks. Yes metal cages are worth it for gravel.


As for the carbon - there are different ways of finishing a layup that will change how the finished product looks. That "checkered" layup you mentioned is some version a "K" style layup. Look up 3K, 6K, 12K etc. And there is unidirectional that has no "checker" to it. So, there's nothing wrong with yours, it's just how the carbon was finished, purely aesthetics.

Thanks for the info. Had thought about those "K" layup spacers for a neater look but then the headset headcap or whatever it's called would also need to be replaced. Another thought I had was on the speed releases. Only removed front wheel so far but it's 4 and bit turns with the 6mm hex key and you have to pull the axel for wheel to drop out. Would much prefer handles and not have to use a 6mm. Also it's marked 11nm max but snugging up with a multitool as you would out on the road and then a short quarter turn seems to be good enough. It was at about 10nm when I checked later with a torque wrench.


Other thoughts - after collecting from shop, the front disc was rubbing 100% against the calipers. Got rid of 80% by loosening the calipers, squeezing the front brake (right lever in Ireland it seems), and re-tightening. The rest was due to the mechanic over tightening the axle. No rubbing now, though it's the nature of new discs/pads as tolerances are so tight.


Only thing I added to the bike was a pair of ultegra r8000 road pedals. Much prefer road pedals to mtb spd and road is where I will be 60% of the time trying to lose weight. Also got the LBS to double wrap some Fabric knurl tape over the stock Cannondale. I get arm/hand pain so this helps a lot. Hopefully when core gets stronger won't be putting so much weight on the bars. Still have to get lights, cages sorted.


Had considered replacing the stock 105 rt70 centre lock rotors with some nice ultegra rt800's but don't think the 90 euro is worth it for aesthetics and a few grams. LBS say the Shimano chain is pants and will break before it wears out. Happen to have a bling KMC EL gold chain that will go on when it breaks or wears out. LBS say to leave the factory wax on the chain as long as possible as better than anything I will put on but I gave the sides a wipe down with a rag anyway as very very sticky.


One question. I only have 135mm clearance on the save seatpost after my fit and I have read you must have 148mm. Cannondalespares even say the seatpost is not compatible with your bike unless you have at least 148mm free. I assume this isn't really true and just means to get the maximum compliance and flex that 148mm is optimal. I would have thought less seatpost exposed is safer.


Thanks

Last edited by HankSc0rpi0; 07-18-19 at 12:54 PM.
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