RogueMechanic

2005 Photo Review

Here's only a small sample of 2005.  Click on the image for a larger view.  I hope to take more photos this year.  Enjoy!

Carbon Fiber Perspective...

I normally won't post something here that can be found elsewhere, but I'm going to make an exception.  I was quickly reading an article in an industry publication regarding carbon fiber frame production.  More specifically, frame production in China.  The biggest challenge is material shortage.  Last year the major producers of raw carbon fiber nearly opted to stop supplying the sporting goods industry because the aerospace and other industries needed as much high quality carbon fiber as they can get.  The supplies are supposed to ease in 2007 and tighten up until at least 2010.  Now this is what blew me away...

A single Airbus A380 superjumbo jet uses approximately 70,000 metric tons of carbon fiber, while the ENTIRE sporting goods industry consumes about 200,000 tons a year....that's about three Airbuses.  And Airbus currently have 150 on order....

Check your tires

One of the many things I check when inspecting a bike is the condition of the tires.  Here's a photo of one that I found recently.  As you can see, there's a stone chip that's embedded that would more than likely have worked it's way thru the casing causing a flat.  All tires are susceptible to cuts and punctures no matter what the manufacturer says.

Recent Client follow-up

I normally don't post emails that I receive from clients, but this one made me smile....

Dear John,

I got out tonight for a quick ride... The Trek ran like a top, like butter on a hot skillet, smooth like a baby's bottom, like a shot of Johnnie Walker Blue,  . . well you know what I'm trying to say, like a brand spanking new 5.9 Madone!   Thank you again for another job well done!

Your grateful customer and greatest billboard,

A.R

I don't mind receiving "Dear John" letters like this...

The Way I See It #2

We need another regular bike shop in this area like we collectively need another hole in our head.  What can't be had here locally or anywhere via the web?  --RogueMechanic

Explanation:  It was recently brought to my attention that a local rider was/is considering opening a shop somewhere in the Cleveland area.  It really doesn't bother me one way or another if another shop opens or not, but the first image that enters my mind is a car stalling on a set of tracks at a railroad crossing and a freight train rolling around the bend... You know what the outcome will be,  but the driver doesn't know what's coming.