Shimano D I 2 - another perspective

I was all excited to get my new Tarmac with Shimano DI2. Admittedly the cool factor had me overlooking an issue. My wrist was starting to hurt and I was trying to come up with all kinds of reasons why this was happen. Then I finally pushed through the cool factor and found the source.

Just a note (perhaps a warning). See the gap at the top of the hood where it meets the handlebar in the first photo.

Second photo shows a filled in gap. Cory at Woodinville Bike Shop ( www.woodinvillebicycle.com )did this for me.

It appears as though the clamp that wraps around the bar and holds the hood in place is lower than on other models of brake levers. This lowering of the clamp seems to be part of the issue. Whatever it is (over sight by Shimano possibly) I am not able to recommend this product. It functions very well but the ergonomics have a long way to go.

Although it is better with the 'fill in' I am ready to “Make the Leap.” Too many customers rant and rave over the comfort of the Sram brake levers. No doubt they will get another “Connection of Excellence” award this year from BikeFit.com

Winter Training and Position

I just took a few days off to spend sometime in the mountains with my family. Of course the bike had to go along with us, even tough it was primarily a skiing vacation. Upon our arrival at Donner Summit, CA I asked my wife to take me down the mountain in so I could do a few hill repeats on the Donner Summit Pass before dinner. Once out of the warm van and into the below freezing temps I got on the bike and ... found out I needed to do an adjustment!



Winter riding gear is much thicker and denser than the clothing we use in spring/summer. This was really noticeable for me when I got on the bike and I felt that my legs were just a tad a little more extended than usual. I proceeded to lower my seat about 1.5-2mm to compensate for the thicker tights and layers I was wearing. Also, my reached had changed as well due to the thicker thermal gloves so I was not as extended, but just that 1 to 2mm of extra padding did make a noticeable difference, and sitting just a little more upright was much welcomed for the hill climb ahead.



Remember, when changing clothing and shoes make sure that your current position has not changed! Small changes can damped your ability to ride comfortably and risk a possible injury.