It's Tuesday and it's raining again. Five of the last six Tuesdays it has rained. I write that with certainty because Tuesdays I look forward to riding with a local group. We haven't often ridden.As a direct result this is what my hands look like. Disappointed in not riding, I decided it is time to learn to remove the rear derailleur. "It's easy, a cinch, and safer to travel with the derailleur in a pocket." At least that is what I'm told, by friends, other riders and many internet voices. Safer for the bike that is, and safer when travelling by plane, not by bike.
Several hours later, I am very glad that tomorrow I am not planning on riding for 40 or 50 miles, over a pass or two, in a country where I don't really speak the language. That was the case the first time I tried to adjust Papillon's derailleur, but then it was just a very minor adjustment in a hotel room in France and in the end it worked. Tonight I am unusually glad that I am going to work tomorrow, and can call my most wonderful bike shop for help, and a lesson.
Even my cat seems to know that the derailleur is not working, and is probably not attached correctly. I don't think I am missing any parts. He isn't so sure and hopes for a washer or something to bat around.
That black sack is a sac, purchased in France and made for carrying a bike, as required by the fast French train TGV, preferably with the handlebars turned and wheels, pedals, and derailleur removed. I can do all but the last. This particular bag has very little protection, so it will need to be modifiedt. Anyone have a favorite bike travel case or bag? Given airline weight limits, it is a challenge.
I've been reading bits and pieces of your blog. Your information on planning in retrospet was great. We have a saying in the world I live in, "adventure is suffering in hindsight". I am an outdoor educator, lots of adventure and such. Anyway, thanks for your posts, I'll keep perusing them.
ReplyDeleteHi Where is she now?!
DeleteThanks for reading, and for taking the time to comment. It is lovely when readers say hello and I always appreciate the feedback. That is a great saying, and with the suffering notion it fits right into much of the cycling world.
Glad you enjoyed that post!
By the way, that's a great name you're using ... stop back and say hello from time to time!
Suze
Somehow your hands are filthy but your chain looks brand new! Good luck with the derailleur. I wouldn't want to even contemplate touching mine - a recipe for disaster.
ReplyDeleteThe reason for this particular craziness is that each time I've flown there has been damage to the derailleur. Luckily for me, usually on the trip home. It would feel safer with the derailleur off the bike altogether... But not unless I learn how!
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