I've been in possession of a Surly 1x1 spec'd very nicely with Paul hubs, Thompson post, Easton
stem, Sid, and Mavic 217's. I think the ratio is
32/17 which isn't bad for the smaller rides around here. It's not officially mine, but I'm trying to
negotiate a deal with the current owner who is looking to sell. Last night was my second ride on
it. I've ridden it at Hartman Rocks both times and have to say it was pretty fun. The first ride
(Sunday) was with a bunch of really fast racer (geared and SS) guys who really punished
me. I think they chose all the hardest, steepest climbs to watch me suffer on my first SS outing.
Last night, JD showed up with his SS (and a bottle of Patron silver!) and we headed back out to
Hartman Rocks. This time I got to choose the route so we took some more SS-friendly trails.
Kill Hill was too much for me, and I had to walk the top 1/3, but the big Fruitan powered his
Edge up and over the top. From there we climbed a jeep road to Rattlesnake, a fun, somewhat
technical trail with lots of little ups and downs. I had to walk a couple of moves, but
surprised myself with how much I could ride without the assistance of lower gearing. From there
we hit Back of Beck's, The Luge, and then spun the two track back to Beck's and back out the
front via The Notch. Again I found myself able to climb stuff I didn't think I would have been
able to make without lower gearing. It seems the key is to hammer as hard as possible on the
approach and try to keep that momentum going as I try to pick (and stick to) the best line. It
brings new challenges to old trails. Darkness fell as we rode up to the house. The smell of
MrsB's green chili reached me in the back yard as we wheeled the bikes to the garage. JD and I
filled up on the chili (over corn chips and Tater Tots) and some Pacifico, following it up with
a Big Foot. It was a fine evening of good riding, good company, and delicious food. Although
I'll be in no hurry to get rid of the Epic, I really hope the deal goes through on the Surly.
Having another bike to spread out the wear and tear is good, and I really think having an SS
will make me stronger. I also like the simplicity of this machine. Not as much to go wrong
here. I'm not ready to start evangelizing the SS, but I think I am ready to start getting out
on one here and there.
--
Matt
"Gravity. It's not just a good idea, it's the law!"
PS - thanks again for the fancy booze, JD. I'll try to save you nip for the next visit!