Today I started getting the bikes ready for spring. Both bikes had winter tune ups when I returned from Baja. A new set of Vittoria Mezcal 29X2.6″ tires was waiting for Hobbes, so I took off WTB Ranger 29X3″ tires that came stock.b. The Vittoria tires sealed up easily with no real mess once I wrangled them onto the rims.
Frankly, the stock WTB i45 front rim is a bit wide for these tires, but I think that it will be fine for the riding I do. I have my eye out for a set of 35mm internal width rims at some point in the future, allowing me to run even narrower tires when I don’t need the width and suspension of 2.6″+ tires.
I also tried to upgrade to a smaller chainring, but I bought the wrong version and need to wait for a new one to arrive. Next week I’ll have a new 28T chainring, giving me slightly lower gearing. Once the new ring arrives, it will be mounted and Hobbes is ready to ride again.
Finally, I used my REI 20% off member coupon to pick up a brand new 20 degree F quilt, the Thermarest Vesper. It is warmer than either Kammok quilt I own, and it compresses quite a bit smaller, too. I look forward to trying it out soon.
Next up, I have to patch a rip in my tent that I created in Baja…
Bikepacking for Nerds 