Novice going RTW. Advice Sought After Scooter Engine Blew Up.



acharnley

New Member
Jan 31, 2013
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Hi All, I'm in India after travelling several month from the UK on my RTW journey (http://www.andrewcharnley.com). As customs do not allow engine changes due to stupid formality rules I had to buy a bicycle and continue on that. My choice was limited and I ended up with something ridiculous. I'm managing a solid 100km a day, sometimes more. I've several questions and I know next to nothing about cycling, here goes…

1. does the drive chain (shimano gears) make a big difference to efficiency? I'm sure what is fitted at the moment is basic, but it works.

2. I need to block out the rear suspension. Looking at my bike, if I replace the suspension will it be better to replace the unit with a bar or have the vertical frame welded in some way?

3. Can I fit 1.5 26" wheels onto a rim that normally takes 2.15 tyres? My rims are unusual in that they take tubes with a long valve stem, and I also think they are less width compared to normal 26" wheels.

Bike pictures:

http://www.andrewcharnley.com/?i=resources&module=view&id=418

and

http://www.andrewcharnley.com/?i=content&module=read&id=363

Thanks!

Andrew
 
hey i cannot understand how does your rear rack work ? to support all that weight it should be clamped near the spot where the rear wheel is supported by the frame, is it attached on the seat tube alone ? edit: ok i read that you got it welded to the seat tube, good luck on your trip
 
The rear bars are welded to the seat bar, it's normal style for bikes here in India. It should be able to take at least the weight of a second person. I've had no trouble but it's one hell of a pivot around the steel up at the front of the bike.

I had the rear suspension replaced with a bar yesterday and it's much better. I'll crack on towards Nepal. :)
 
mechanicals in a touring adventure are always a PITA, but it seems you are getting things sorted out,
 
There's a picture of the 'fix' n my facebook page. Hopefully it'll stand up.

http://www.facebook.com/andrewcharnleycom

Thanks.

Just need to source better rubber now.