dan profile

This is the kind of trickle-down phenomenon I can get into. Nice work, Shimano.

Interesting technology. I've been wearing a Bell Super for a few seasons and don't have any ventilation concerns - though like many here I'm in the PNW and that's seldom a concern. Can't say the helmet-on-a-helmet appearance is catching my eye, and I'll add my dislike of the foam-look. I immediately flashed back to my Specialized Sub Six Pro from three decades ago. Yeesh.

Do you live near a Transition dealer? I think a demo is just what just you need! (AFAIK the demo program is on hold for the moment thanks to corona but the guidance still stands)

I'm running only one bike, and I've lashed most everything to my frame: EDC pump under my bottle cage, and a Dakine Hot Laps wrap behind the head tube with a tube, 2 Pedros levers, and a SOG folding knife (just 'cause). I have an 11sp chain link taped to my bars and a Fiskars saw sometimes lashed under the TT. The vast majority of my rides are really close to home so I'll run my minimalist Bontrager Rapid Pack to securely stash my keys, a pack of yet-unused bacons, Crank Bros F15 (Canada edition!), and maybe a snack. When I'm gonna be out for 2 or more hours, or riding the bike park, I have a High Above pack with ample space for a lot more food, my GoPro, spare links, a flashlight, brake pads, and a small jacket, etc. While I take issue with the design of the High Above - it un-cinches itself nearly every time I take it on/off, unlike the Bonti pack - it's good enough that I haven't used my Dakine Nomad in several years. 

No matter the ride length/distance, I use a Sealine mobile phone pouch for my iPhone SE. Like Cam, I favor smaller phones. This case accommodates it and keeps it dry.

Agreed, those look really trick. I'd love to move away from single-use plastic zip ties, especially given that I tend to use them for short-term repairs just to get out of the woods. I'm seeing them at $8.24 for 4 as a US customer. I'll order them in the morning. 

Something I just heard is that bits of Orange sealant can be (re)used as a tire plug. An Ontario wheelbuilder shared that with me - said that he saves what he pulls out of tires when it's time for fresh sealant, and uses it for trailside repairs later on. Haven't tried it yet myself as I have been using Stan's (which as we all know just generates weird goblins) but next sealant purchase will be Orange to try this out.

Good recommendation with the Silkys. I have found there is a significant price difference if you purchase from a home improvement store vs REI here in the US. (Yeah, yeah, Lowe's isn't a co-op. Just sharing what I know.)

Personally I use a Fiskars 10" folding saw that I found in the bush years ago on a backcountry trip. I lash it to my frame with a mutherload-like strap.

When this virus bidness is over, I'd love to demo that XXL, being 6'5". I tried an XXL Megatower and immediately giggled as I first pedaled around. If I owned one I call it the USS Nimitz. 515 reach, 666(!) stack, 76 SA, 1296 WB.

I agree the Mk1 Sentinel is a looker. A friend of mine had his custom-painted to match the metallic ruby red of the latest Mustang. It was gorgeous! (Recently sold to a rider in California.)

Gotta figure a longer-travel 29er is inevitable especially given the recent reveal of the 38, and Lars' close relationship to FOX.

There's been chatter here in Bham about a 'Super Sentinel' which I suspect is the 170mm travel 29er we're all curious about. I imagine it will get a unique name in keeping with the quasi-military theme. I am skeptical that the Patrol name will be applied to a wagon wheeler but I have nothing factual to base that on.

If you're ever on the Washington side of the border, Greg Mackenzie is the man. I think he's wrapping up a brick and mortar but you can reach him on Instagram @ButterSuspension. (His new shop space is TBD.)