Originally Posted by brianz
Howdy.
I don't race, I just tool around town and get where I need to go and I've got a few questions:
1) Anybody have an opinion on chain tensioners? I've tensioned my chain w/o that little gadget, but I just wanted to know if anyone actually uses those things.
2) How long should a chain last and how do you know when it's time for a new one. I ride around philly on a daily basis...nothing too crazy, just gettin' 'round. How long should my chain last and how will I know it's time for a new one.
3) Bullhorn bars. I've been told they enhance control in high traffic situations...is that more or less true? If so, what brand/features should I look for in bullhorn bars.
Thanks in advance for the advice
bz
1. They work well if your wheel slips a lot. I use the Surly for my steamroller. Buggest thing: make sure you get the right size for your axle
2. I have had the same chain on my Steamroller for 2+ years. I clean it biweekly to make sure the syringes and McDonald's wrappers do as little damage as possible as I ride the alleys for the most part here in Chicago - faster route for me
3. This one will vary. I have ridden both and like the forward extension the bullhorns give as I really do not always need to drops of standard track dropbars give. I would go as narrow as possible on bars for city use (easier to get in and out of tight traffic). 38-39cm is a good area.