First ride of 2022 done.
Not a big one, as I mainly wanted to check the robustness of the four puncture repairs that I did a few days ago. I also took the opportunity to clean the brake disc pads as they were really squealing during the rain that we had over the last week or so.
Another consideration was, if the repairs failed, I would not have that far to walk the bike home.
As the weather was nice, being dry and bright, but very windy I thought that I’d do a few circuits near where I live.
Mrs DG was at work today but, being quite petite, is not good with the wind, particularly any side wind, especially through gaps as it does cause her to wobble and she doesn’t feel comfortable. In fact, she has been blown over before.
The work on the East West Rail has stopped over the Christmas holiday, but they do seem to be progressing well.
The weather stayed good until the end of my third circuit, when it started raining. Not too heavy, but a sharp shower which eased off a bit, so I continued the ride and started the fourth circuit. About half way into this the rain came on very heavy, so I then decided to stop after that one and go home.
I’m pleased that the puncture repairs held up as I‘ve not been too successful in the past as they usually fail as I’m pumping them up to the correct pressure. Inevitably, I end up putting a new tube in.
Given that they appear to be OK and barring any further punctures, should these be OK to keep using. If someone can give some guidance on the longevity of puncture repairs, that would be much appreciated as I’m not too experienced riding on patched tubes. FYI, they are Schwalbe Johnny Watts tyres on Schwalbe AV inner tubes which have Muc-Off sealant in them.
Now at home with a Nespresso black lungo coffee, I’ve been on Amazon and ordered some Panaracer Flat-Away Kevlar tyre liners, which I shall no doubt struggle to get on the tyres, but then, Mrs DG says I do need to do things to keep me occupied.
