Crank with ProCycle December 2016

India’s only lifestyle bicycle magazine

Volume 4 Issue 11

KARENG / 2016 / 68421

Rs. 100/-

December 2016

d

lusive M e Exc

ar tner aP di

Women’s Specific Bikes Are they Needed ?

Reviewed: Ladies Rides from GIANT, SCOTT, RIDLEY & TREK

Official a n

Inside

Cycling Federation of India

world’s #1 bicycle manufacturer

Ride Life.

Ride Giant. bikes | Service | Gears Flagship Stores: New Delhi : 26, Main Market Lodhi Colony,New Delhi – 110 003.Phone number: Tel:+91 011 2464 7605 | Email : delhi@starkennbikes.com

Bengaluru : 961, HAL II Stage. 100 ft road, 12th Main Road, Opp. Lakme Salon, Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560 008, Karnataka, India.

Tel: +91-8494-920-000 | Email: bengaluru@starkennbikes.com

Pune: Showroom 1 & 2, Sangam Projects, Nr. Sangam Bridge, Opp. Air India O�ce, Next to RTO, Shivajinagar, Pune - 411 001, Maharashtra, India.

Tel: +91-020-67208720 | Email: pune@starkennbikes.com

Mumbai: Mohini Tower, Ground Floor, Plot 761, 5th Road, Nr. Khar (W) Railway Station, Khar West, O� S.V Road, Bandra, Mumbai - 400 052, Maharashtra, India.

Email: mumbai@starkennbikes.com

Test Ride a Giant at your nearest dealer. SMS GIANT <space> TEST RIDE <space> CITY to 54646.

Also available at leading bike outlets in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh & 40 other cities

Kolkata: No.14, Commerce House, 2A, O� Bentinck Street, Kolkata - 700 013, West Bengal, India.| Email: kolkata@starkennbikes.com

Website: StarkennBikes.com info@starkennbikes.com / StarkennBikes @starkennbikes

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Flagship Stores:

Flagship Stores:

_______________ _______________ _______________ _______________

Bengaluru : 961, HAL II Stage. 100 ft road, 12th Main Road, Opp. Lakme Salon, Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560 008, Karnataka, India. Tel: +91-8494-920-000 | Email:bengaluru@starkennbikes.com

www.starkennbikes.com info@starkennbikes.com / StarkennBikes Mumbai: Mohini Tower, Ground Floor, Plot 7611, 5th Road, Nr. Khar (W) Railway Station, Khar West, O� S.V Road, @ starkennbikes Bandra, Mumbai - 400 052, Maharashtra, India. Tel: 022 2600 9600| Email: mumbai@starkennbikes.com Pune:: Showroom 1 & 2, Sangam Projects, Nr. Sangam Bridge, Opp. Air India O�ce, next to RTO, Shivajinagar, Pune 411 001, Maharashtra, India. Tel: +91-020-6720-8720 | Email: pune@starkennbikes.com Kolkata: No.14, Commerce House, 2A,O� Bentinck Street, Kolkata - 700 013, West Bengal, India.|Tel: 070440 30370 | Email: kolkata@starkennbikes.com

Test Ride a Giant at your nearest dealer. SMS GIANT <space> TEST RIDE <space> CITY to 54646.

Also available at leading bike outlets in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh & 40 other cities

_______________ _______________ _______________ _______________

Bengaluru : 961, HAL II Stage. 100 ft road, 12th Main Road, Opp. Lakme Salon, Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560 008, Karnataka, India. Tel: +91-8494-920-000 | Email:bengaluru@starkennbikes.com

Kolkata: No.14, Commerce House, 2A,O Bentinck Street, Kolkata - 700 013, West Bengal, India.|Tel: 070440 30370 | Email: kolkata@starkennbikes.com

InThisIssue CFINews 21st National Road Cycling Championship

04

04

ProCycling

06 The Great Malnad Challenge 08 Upcoming event â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rugged Sahyadris 08 Tour De Pavagadh 10 Oxfam Trailwalker 11 BBCH XCO

HealthWise Managing Diabetes with cycling

ShowCase Women specific bikes - Is there a need?

PlanetSaddle

06

14 16

10

20

CRANK Profile - EVA

CityTalk Nashik Cyclists Foundation

WorkBayWatch Removing and Replacing Chains

CrankActive Hot Air Ballooning Up Up and Awaaaay....

ToyCentral Giant Ultra Light 205g pr Pedals

22 23

14

24 26

16 24 22

23

26

Tune your bike! Tweak your heart !

Maintain your cycle, so that your cycle maintains you!

Trained Technicians.

State-of-the-art Equipment.

Genuine Parts.

ProCycle Koramangala

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+91 80 2535 2004

Contact us for more details at torquewrench@procycle.in

/procycleindia www.procycle.in

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sNote

The CRANK with ProCycle Team Managing Editor and Publisher Vikram K Limsay Invitee editor Onkar Singh, Secretary General, CFI Bureau Operations Harkamal Sethi Contributing Editor Joseph Anish Creative and Design N. Chandru Contact editdeskcrank@procycle.in subscribecrank@procycle.in advertisecrank@procycle.in Expert Test Team Ritwik Burman Ignatius Chen Issue Contributors Dr. Meera Velankar Priya Kulkarni Columbia Asia All Rights Reserved By ProCycle and Sports India Pvt. Ltd. Corporate Office and Showroom 226, 1st Main Road, Service Road Domlur 2nd Stage, Indira Nagar Bangalore â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 560071 Tel: 080 41161902, +91 95380 66695 Website www.procycle.in Follow us on Facebook: @CrankwithProCycle https://www.facebook.com/CrankwithProCycle/ Cover Pic Trek Courtesy Firefox Back Cover BBCh Courtesy Rolling Shutterz Printed By Print 2 Last Solutions

Dear Readers, We are seeing increasing number of ladies on wheels and we thought it is time we do a dedicated review of some women specific rides. I am sure ladies will find it useful.

We are deep into the tour season with scintillating tours happening in every scenic spot of the country. We take you on a trip from Nilgiris to Aravillis. Keep reading as we will keep you posted on all such upcoming events. Epic races are coming up from Munsiari in Uttarakhand and to the Tour Of Nilgiris in south.

The Road Nats were held at Aligarh under the aegis of CFI and were a superbly managed event. What was interesting is the enthusiasm shown by participants, state federations and from other stakeholders. Our friends in CFI do some serious hardwork with utmost dedication. I hope the community will appreciate their effort more vocally on social media and other platforms. They deserve it.

We love the way cycling is picking up in every city of the country. This time we profile the Nashik Cyclists Foundation.

Keep those comments coming. Read up and Ride on.

Till we meet again.

Ciao & #Getoutandride Vikram K Limsay Managing Editor and Publisher

Karnataka made a hatrick to win the overall championship title of 21st National Road Cycling Championship

CFINews

21ST NATIONAL ROAD CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIP

2

1st National Road Cycling Championship held at Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh from 5th to 8th Nov. 2016, whereby more than 600 participants from 27 states took part. Karnataka made a hatrick to win the overall championship title of 21st National Road Cycling Championship with 3 Gold, 4 Silver & 5 Bronze Medals, while Haryana achieved runners up trophy with 3 Gold, 4 Silver & 1 Bronze Medals. Mr Rahul from Delhi was awarded Best Men Elite cyclists of the Championship & Ms. T. Bidyaluxmi Devi from Railway was awarded Best Women elite cyclists of the Championship.

Upcoming CFI Events MTB event at Munsyari, Uttarakhand 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25 Nov. 2016 - Prize Money Rs. 5,00,000/Chandigarh Cyclothon at Chandigarh on 27th Nov. 2016 Prize Money 2.5 Lakhs 69th National Track Cycling Championship at Trivandrum, Kerala from 21st to 25th Dec. 2016.

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

Details of Championship No. Group

State

Position Total Points G

1 Elite Men

Championship

SSCB RSPB

Winner

14 11

2 1 2 1 2 0

2 Elite Women Championship

Maharashtra Winner RSPB Runner

18 10

2 1 0 2 0 0

3 Junior Boys & Girls Championship

Haryana Winner Rajasthan Runner

19 1 2 15 2

0

12 12

1 1

1 1

38 37

3 4 5 3 4 1

4

Sub Junior & Youth Boys Karnataka & Girls Championship Assam

Winner Runner

5 Over All Championship

Karnataka Winner Haryana Runner

6

Rahul, Delhi

Best Men

7 Best Women

1

T BidyaLuxmi, RSPB

2

S

2 2

B

SSCB - Services Sports Control Board; RSPB - Railway Sports Promotion Board.

G-Gold; S-Silver, B-Bronze

The lead pack with Craig

ProCycling

BBCH XCO

O

ctober 16th was race day for the penultimate race of the season calendar of Bangalore Bicycle Championships (BBCh) Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier amateur racing program. It was the Cross Country Olympic (XCO) discipline this time. For newbies, XCO consists of lap racing around a short specially curated dirt circuit. It is the only cross country cycling discipline which is in the Olympics. It requires serious mountain biking skills and of course stamina For this race the course at Avalahalli forest near Yelahanka in Bangalore was a fine mix of ideal XC elements; muddy track through paddy fields, technical rocky climb, down slope slide with the right amount of gravel,

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

Wooded climbe

Paddy Track

Amateur Podium

threateningly close thorny bushes, intimidating woods and of-course plenty of oxygen to inhale. Indeed a course to cherish for hard-core knobby lovers All four categories women, under -18, amateur and elite saw a competitive race field. Six laps for the elite category and four for all the others the race saw moments of some scintillating performances. Familiar face Craig Raynes took the top of the elite podium, and team compatriot Muralidharan also made it despite a mid race flat and a bike swap. Lena Robra took the podium in the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s category followed

by Samira Abraham. Team Ghost Sangam procycling who were also the course curators, sent in a full contingent and seem to have some good developing talent in Rishabh Gowda and Umesha K who came up tops in the U-18 and amateur respectively. CRANK congratulates all winners, finishers and participants With this race it was curtains for the dirt series on the 2016 calendar

Rank 1

Bib Name 723 UMESHA K

Amateur

Team name GHOST-SANGAM PROCYCLING

Lap 1 19:35.4

Lap 2 15:15.2

Lap 3 15:35.4

Lap 4 16:11.4

Lap 5 Total Time 11:48.6 1:18:26

2

713 MOHAMMED RIYAZ

TEAM CRANKMEISTER

20:13.1

16:46.2

16:00.3

16:14.8

0:10:58

1:20:12

3

714 AJAY AREN

TEAM CRANKMEISTER

21:06.2

16:04.0

15:49.2

16:16.4

0:11:01

1:20:17

Rank

Lap 1

Lap 2

Lap 3

Lap 4

Lap 5

Lap 6

1

Bib

741 CRAIG RAYNES

TEAM BOTS

0:14:55

0:14:09

0:14:27

0:14:45

0:14:56

0:15:12

1:28:24

2

691 MURALIDHAR N

TEAM BOTS

0:14:55

0:14:25

0:18:51

0:15:43

0:15:59

0:17:30

1:37:23

3

694 VISHWESH

MINISTRI RACING

0:17:07

0:15:54

0:15:35

0:17:31

0:17:16

0:17:19

1:40:41

Lap 1

Lap 2

Lap 3

Lap 4

Rank

Bib 1

Rank

Name 685 RISHABH

Bib 1

Name

Name 603 LENA ROBRA

Team name

Team name GHOST-SANGAM PROCYCLING* Team name TEAM CRANKMEISTER

0:25:00

0:17:03

0:12:20

0:12:37

Lap 1

Lap 2

Lap 3

Lap 4

0:22:00

0:17:53

0:15:27

0:14:07

Total Time

Total Time 1:07:00 Total Time 1:09:27

CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

7

THE GREAT MALNAD CHALLENGE

M

alnad or Malenadu covers the western and eastern slopes of the WesternGhats in Karnataka. It is indeed an outdoor bums dream. Verdant greenery, rolling hills, dense forests, plantations, stream, misty hills… It is truly one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Pristine and un-spoilt If that is not reason enough for you to visit then if you are a cyclist the Great Malnad Challenge or popularly known as GMC should be.

Touted as the toughest MTB race of south India, this race is sure to blow your lungs and stretch your leg muscles to the max. The ride covers about 700 KM’s in 8-days and the trail passes through some of the most remote areas of the Western Ghats. Launched in the 2010 and managed by the professional team at ICYCLE, the GMC has evolved over the years and is in its fourth edition

From being just a leisure ride on a bicycle it is now one of the premier MTB challenges of the country. However, the original flavor which is cyclo-touring and enjoying cycling in the rarely travelled roads in the Malnad, is very much intact This year’s challenge flagged off in Mysore and winded its way through the beautiful terrain of Coorg and ended in Guddekere. A very enthusiastic support from its sponsors like, SBI, Performax, Giant Starkenn, TI Cycles, KSRTC ensured healthy prize money of Rs. 4 Lakhs for the winners If not for the prize money then just for the beauty but one this is certain, if you are an outdoor bum CRANK recommends that the GMC should be surely on your ride calendar

UPCOMING EVENT – RUGGED SAHYADRIS

T

his is one interesting race format that one must try out. The Rugged Sahyadri is a self-supported adventure race that has a mix of mountain biking, trekking & navigation. The race is held in outskirts of Kolhapur and the route will be revealed only at the time of bib collection to keep up the element of surprise till the very last moment. As the name suggests it is an off-road race where the participants will peddle and trek through gut wrenching uphills, exciting downhills, village backroads, thick vegetation, jeep tracks, single track, muddy trails, bike& hike and savor real mountain biking. This is not a casual cycling tour. It’s a self-supported race. Rugged Sahyadri brought the cycling culture back in Kolhapur and the event is much awaited year after year and attracts huge crowds from every corner of India. Prestigious brands like Radio Mirchi, SLK Global, Dena Bank, Star Group, Fiat Aaron, Firefox Cycles, and Gold’s Gym support the race Event has Junior, Amature Forty plus, Family, corporate, college, Open and solo categories. You can visit http://www.ruggedian.com/Rugged/ Categories.html and register for this rugged fun. Crank as a media partner wishes them all the best!

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

BANGALORE’S FAVOURITE BICYCLE SUPERSTORE INDIRANAGAR Discover a world of premium bikes from global brands, genuine spares, impeccable service and expert advice at ProCycle, Bangalore’s bike superstore. Great rental plans too.

WIDEST RANGE OF BICYCLES, ACCESSORIES & SPARES AVAILABLE UNDER ONE ROOF

ProCycle Indiranagar #226, I Main Rd, Domlur 2nd Stage, Indiranagar Bangalore - 560071. Tel: +91 80 2520 2004

torquewrench@procycle.in

Panoramic Pavagadh

ProCycling

TOUR DE PAVAGADH

W

hat more can you ask for than a race route is naturally blessed. Situated in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat, Pavagadh, meaning “one fourth hill” also locally called “fire-hill” is a part of the southern Aravallis and has emerged as a result of volcanic eruptions. The site is 50 KM east of Baroda with smooth roads for initial legs followed by a moderately elevated terrain that make it an ideal terrain for competitive road cycling.

Organized by the cycling club of Baroda (TCCB) and in its 4th year, the tour saw a record participation of approximately 300 riders from across the country. The tour was flagged off by International cricketer Kiran More and ace national javelin thrower Razia Sheikh. It is a mass start amateur road race in three distance categories of 40KM, 75KM &

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

Femme power

Peloton

100KM. The race route winds through beautiful scenic spots, dense forest, rolling terrain always allowing a view of the summit that has an elevation of 2600 feet. Windy conditions offer a good challenge to the riders.

Riders started rolling-in at 5:30AM on a beautiful clear and sunny Sunday morning. The October temperature was just right and there was slight nip in the air. Flag-off was in waves and the initial 12 KM was non-competitive till the start of the Halol Toll expressway.

From there the timed section began. RFID timing technology was employed to record precise timing and digital certificates were given to all. This was a first for TCCB. The race was logistically well planned by race directors Asif Pandor and Miten Thakker with complete support from the civic authorities, Vadodara police and local riding clubs. Local motorcycle club the bullet marshals oversaw route control so that the riders always had a right of way.

There was significant public interest with considerable audience lining up enroute to encourage the riders.

The finishers

While there were stellar individual performances and achievements, special mention must go out to Geeta S Rao a special cyclist from Ahmedabad who raced in the 75 KM womens open category. She finished with super timing. CRANK joins TCCB in saluting her.

Firefox was the title sponsor of the race and several other local business establishments like Narayan Realities, The Laundry House, Ustad Miyan, Transform Gym & the Bullet Marshals supported the event with enthusiasm. CRANK thanks them all for supporting the cause of cycling.

Congrats TCCB for keeping up the cycling flag in Vadodara. We wish you many more successful races, tours and cyclothons.

75 KM Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open

100 KM Men above 40

100 KM Men Open

1 Monica Joshi- Vadodara

1 Tejash Jariwala - Surat

1 Meherzad Irani - Mumbai

2 Maitree Pradhan- Vadodara

2 Mahendra Yadav- Bhuj

2 Dhiren Bontra- Mumbai

3 Puja kashyap- Mumbai

3 Ghanshyam Parghi- Vadodara 3 Akshay Moye- Mumbai

OXFAM TRAILWALKER An endurance challenge like no other Oxfam Trailwalker is among the worlds leading endurance, leadership and team challenge charity event to aid the mission to end inequality and poverty. A globally organized event in 11 countries, Trailwalker requires you to form a team of 4 to walk 100 KM in 48 hours.

This makes Oxfam Trailwalker organised by not-for-profit Oxfam India an experience of a lifetime! The event is for people who want to challenge their limits and be their best, and get a rare chance to soak in the rustic beauty of lakes and vineyards along the trail route.

Participants rely on teammates who turn into to lasting friends. When you walk for equality, you also bring hope to the poorest communities in India. You become part of a global movement of people who want to end the injustice caused by extreme inequality and poverty!

Every year, the event has seen the participation of top executives from multinational corporates such as Goldman Sachs, Accenture, HSBC, Deutsche Bank among others. The dates for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edition of Oxfam Trailwalker are December 9-11, 2016 in Mumbai and January 20-22, 2017 in Bengaluru. To register, please visit https://trailwalker.oxfamindia.org/ or get to know more on our Facebook page @OxfamIndiaTrailwalker.

CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

11

Sugar Burn

HealthWise

MANAGING DIABETES WITH CYCLING (Authored article by Dr. Fred Williams, Consultant Endocrinologist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Whitefield)

A

ccording to the Annual Health Report (2011) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, nearly half of all the deaths in India are primarily due to non-communicable diseases, many of which are linked to inactive and unhealthy lifestyles like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, diseases resulting from obesity, etc. Unhealthy lifestyles, lack of physical activity, and the increased rates of obesity among the masses are some of the major reasons for people suffering with noncommunicable diseases. One such major non-communicable disease affecting people worldwide is diabetes with an increase in the global prevalence among adults over 18 years of age from 4.7% in 1980 to 8.5% in 2014, according to a report by WHO.

Cycling as part of regular exercise, for about 30 mins a day,can be very helpful for diabetic patients. It is effective in bringing down sugar levels in the body and increasing fitness levels. Cycling is also considered to be easier on the joints as compared to any other form of exercise like jogging, etc. It helps burns calories, improves stamina, increases body muscle mass and can help in controlling Type 2 diabetes and also preventing the progression of diabetes in pre diabetics.

According to the International Diabetes Federation South-East Asia, there were 69.1 million cases of diabetes in India in 2015. Having diabetes can also lead to several other co-morbid complications like blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke etc. Even though diabetics can be managed with tablets and/or insulin shots, to mimic the body’s natural process, it is important to carefully synchronize these insulin injections and blood sugar levels, depending on the body’s need.

Even though cycling has a lot of benefits for diabetes patients, intensive cycling or any form of intensive exercise can also lead to irregular blood sugar levels particularly in Type 1 diabetics. The effects can be quite complex but usually results in an upsurge of blood sugar levels transiently followed by lower blood sugar level after few hours.

These steep changes in the sugar levels can lead to hypoglycaemia and other complications in diabetic patients particularly in Type 1 diabetics. Your doctor can help you establish a plan, including best times of day to train and how to go about monitoring, adjusting, and ultimately managing your fluctuating glucose levels.

Maintaining proper body weight and adopting a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in prevention of diabetes and preventing the progression of the disease. Adopting cycling, as a form of physical activity, can go a long way in preventing and managing diabetes.

Cycling as a form of exercise for diabetic patients Cycling is highly recommended as a form of exercise. People who travel short distances for work can opt for cycling instead of bikes or cars.

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

However, any diabetic patient opting for cycling should make sure they consult their doctors to adjust their insulin/medications accordingly.

Managing diabetes for serious cyclists

Tips for diabetes patients opting for competitive cycling Management of Type 1 and type 2 diabetes in these scenarios vary considerably • Consult your doctor to adjust your treatment.

• Before you start cycling, make sure you check your blood sugar levels. High sugar levels in the bloodstream can also inhibit your performance and hence

it is important to make sure they are on the optimum levels.

• On long rides you should make sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly in between or use continuous glucose monitoring systems to make sure there are no irregularities.

• Carry carbohydrates on your rides, as exercise can lead to hypoglycaemia.

• After the event, make sure to check your blood sugar levels and contact your doctor immediately in case of any complications.

• Consider insulin pumps, Continuous glucose monitoring system and other aids All cyclists, whether diabetic or not, need to restock their muscle glycogen stores to recover from a long and tiring ride. For riders without diabetes, it’s usually the intake of carbohydrates, proteins and hydration that can do the job. However, for diabetic patients it is important to understand your body’s need and act accordingly. A lot of people take a unit or two of insulin right after they get off the bike. This is followed by post-ride meal that is a ratio of four-to-one carbohydrates to protein.

Avoiding hypoglycaemia can be tricky even hours after training and racing has ended.

Use of finger-stick style blood glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) helps in these cases as they alert the patients whenever the sugar levels are either too high or low.

It would be ideal if you could try to train at the same time everyday and develop a program that consistently works for you. If this is not possible, the results of blood glucose monitoring are the key to determining how you can safely train, and what pre-exercise and on-bike food and fluid strategies are most effective

Showcase

WOMEN SPECIFIC BIKES IS THERE A NEED?

I

n this issue we discuss this special topic about women specific bikes. We also bring you test report of some women’s bikes tested by lady riders under criteria set by the CRANK test team. But first let’s try and figure out whether there is really a need for women’s specific frames or bikes. Or is just about smart marketing

Our take is that cycling is all about body geometry and bike geometry. A woman’s body is physically different from a man’s. There is nature endowed difference in various aspects like anatomy, weight distribution, muscle mass, skeletal structure, body proportionality etc. This results in a woman mounting, riding and maneuvering a bike differently.

A woman prefers a more upright riding position hence a longer head tube may be required. Similarly better handlebar and pedal reach require a shorter top tube and seat tube. She prefers more weight distribution on glutes and less pressure on the perineum when seated hence saddle shape, saddle position and seat tube angle become important. A wider hip and shoulder structure necessitates wider handlebars to afford tighter and safer turns. A lower gearing ratio will also help her with the pedal push. And finally, for carrying and stowing, a lightweight and sleeker tube geometry will afford better lift and hold convenience.

So it’s not just about pinks and pastels and birds and flowers on the paintjob. And neither is it all about bagel basket functionality. Women riders deserve as much scientific bike geometry as anyone else and therefore there is merit in a woman’s specific frame.

Sure, women specific frames are a tad expensive and the range itself is a bit limited.

But then that’s a function of demand. More ladies on wheels, wider the range and better the prices. But nothing to worry if you are constrained. You could always pick up a regular bike and ask your bike shop to make intelligent adjustments with spacers, extenders and saddle shape and saddle position to make your ride comfortable. Of course there are some limitations. For example, little can be done with tube angles.

But then the right bike shop will be able to sort you out either ways. However if you are headed for competitive or even regular riding then it is advisable to invest in a women’s specific bike. Remember, you don’t buy a bike you get into riding. So the right equipment helps.

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

In this issue we bring to you test reports and review four women specific bikes to help you understand how global brands pit some serious thought behind them.

Our lady test riders have ridden and tested them to experience the design comfort.

The Rove 2 Liv Giant Price: INR 54,500/Liv is Giants cycling brand designed for women by women. The fit, form and function crafted is based on global body dimension studies The Rove 2 ladies XC bike was sent to CRANK for the test. We put the bike to test through soft off road, dirt and some basic shredding. The riders appreciated the subtle difference Though being a cross-country mountain bike it is lightweight compared to a traditional MTB and can comfortably climb and descend moderately technical terrain. The 29ers make it easier to negotiate and accelerate. The suspension has 63 mm of front travel, which is less than the typical range of 80-120 mm but doesn’t really matter since the frame is

2016 Giant Liv Rove 2

lightweight. The suspension lock option will help those who prefer the stability of an MTB even while in city by cutting the suspension travel This 27-speed cross-country bike has a max gear ratio of 48/11 allowing you you to reach high top speeds on flat terrain for those with strong leg muscles. Conversely the minimum gear ratio of 26/34 (22 gear inches) is about average for a mountain bike but doable for soft descents. We loved the hydraulic disc brakes. The bike in pastel colors and unique graphics is a neat looker So, to sum it up it is a cross-country bike with basic components and suspension that has lock in and out feature with lesser travel and the aluminum Alux frame comes with elegant graphics and colors.

teamed up with the 700c wheels, give the Contessa Speedster 45 a max gearing of 132 gear inches. This is considered medium in terms of max gearing and gives a racy-pacey ride with an elevated cadence on flats.

The minimum gear ratio of 30/30 (29 gear inches) is fairly low and will make longer climbs and steeper ascents easy on rider.

The Contessa Speedster 45 is an old school road bike, keeping speed in mind without sacrificing comfort. Cool lilac model with aggressive geometry in order to maximize the bike’s efficiency. The lower handlebarsfor a more aerodynamic posture, and the wheels are close together to allow for quick handling. Bike is available in sensible sizing of 46, 48, 51, 53, and 55 cm.

SCOTT Contessa Speedster 45 Price: INR 51,300/This beautiful roadie comes with women’s specific handlebar, handlebar stem and saddle making it a comfortable fit. The SCOTT Contessa Speedster 45 features shape optimized double-butted Alloy tubing and a race proven geometry that provides an aerodynamic advantage. Bike has a chic paint job and includes a Shimano Claris drivetrain.

Shimano Claris FC-2403 Black / 30x39x50 T offers various levels of acceleration and with a weight of approximately 10 KG’s the feel is solid and light at the same time This 24-speed bike has a max gear ratio of 50/11. This

SCOTT Contessa Speedster 45-2

CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

17

Ridley Liz Alloy 30_BLK

Skye WSD from Trek Price: INR 33,990 Skye’s the limit for how far this mountain bike will take you. Every detail, from women’s-specific touch points to optimized wheel size, is designed to ensure a fun, wild adventure on the trail.

However far you like to roam, Skye’s confidence-inspiring ride will keep you smiling.

Mountain biking is about adventure, staying fit, and having fun on the trail.

Ridley Liz A30 Price: To be launched next month Liz A 30 comes with oversized sharp edge tubes ensures high strength and stiffness with flex areas in the seat stay absorbing vibrations. Tapered head tube with angular contact and full internal cable routing for desired performance, clean look, and low on maintenance . Thoughtfully comes in XXS sizing keeping in mind female height requirement in an international market.

Its lightweight, hydroformed 7005 triple butted aluminum frameset & the Shimano Sora Tripple goupset makes it a perfect choice for the beginner who is looking for a ride varied terrains.

The Ridley Liz A30 is a traditional alloy road bike. So speed requirements overpowering comfort. The bike is stiff and light with an aggressive geometry in order to maximize the bike’s efficiency.

The lighter and stiffer a bike is, the better the power transfer to the drive-train. The handlebars are usually positioned lower than the seat for a more aerodynamic posture, and the wheels are close together to allow for quick handling.

This Liz carries SORA group set and triple chain rings and 9 gears on the cassette. This 27-speed drivetrain has a max gear ratio of 50/12. This gear ratio, combined with the 700c wheels, give the Liz A30 a max gearing of 121 gear inches & has a minimum gear ratio of 30/27 or 32 gear inches.

Bike is famous for its clean look and can be used for recreational riding and also for comfortable medium distance long rides.

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CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

There is a clever wheel size combination with frames.

27.5” on 13.5” and 15.5” frames and 29er on 17” and 18.5”. Bike feels little heavy at first, but it feels really solid on the down hills. Disc brakes work at slowing and stopping the bike to its best. The low cost Suntour fork with preload, 75mm travel is a tad heavy compared to other forks, but then the pricing has to be attractive considering it is entry level.

Still quite nice for recreational mountain biking and noncompetitive riding Bike is loaded with Full Shimano drivetrains, including cranks, plus reliable Tektro brakes gives these bikes the performance edge over the competition.

Exclusive Women’s Specific Design (WSD) from Trek assures finesse in stand over, saddle, handlebar, and stem size for you.

Comes in a sizing of 16, 17 & 18.5”which is rack and mudguard friendly.

PlanetSaddle

CRANK PROFILE - EVA

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RANK is always happy to profile amateur riders who have taken to cycling and are doing their bit to expand our community. In this issue we profile Eva, fifty two year young, working professional and mother of two.

Origianlly from Shillong and currently based in Ahmedabad Eva’s cycling story is particularly inspiring as she started late. Never really into serious sport, Eva got into cycling only two years ago and has taken to it as fish takes to water. She began with running then graduated to ultra and trail running and then onto cycling. She is now a recognised face and a regular particpant in duathlons and traithlons where she has podium finishes to her credit. Additionally, Eva has partcipated in several individual time trial events and cyclothons like Ahmedabad Cyclothon 2016, the Polo Impossible Race and the Tour of Aravallis 2016 where she finished on the podium Cycling for her is more than a sport says Eva. “It is zen at times. Just the wind in your face, nature, the road and stillness.

Just you and the moment. At other times, it is adrenaline coursing through your veins and your legs on fire. It is sharing laughter and a cuppa tea with fellow cyclists, making friends with strangers, sights and smells, stories...” She started out as a runner.

Following a series of injuries and downtime,

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she took to cycling. Started out with an MTB and leisure riding. Things changed when she got a road bike a year ago and discovered the fun of cycling and the thrill of speed. In terms of endorphin rush and challenge, running pips cycling. But when it comes to fun and freedom, nothing like cycling. “Its the closest i come to feeling like a bird in flight...” Says Eva Currently Eva has has set her sight on half ironman distance triathlon in December at Chennai followed by the Half Ironman Malaysia or may be even full ironman and is putting in some focussed training. Besides regular running, cycling and swimming, she incorporates yoga, strength and circuit training in her routine. She also uses free weights, kettle bells, exercise ball and foam rolling. Attention to proper sleep, recovery and nutrition are key factors in her training.

Now that’s some serious routine Eva’s ride is a Felt ZW95 alloy frame, with 105 groupset. Fondly named Daisyben in keeping with the Amdavadi spirit. She changed from compact with 170 crank to a sub-compact with 165 crank for the tour of Aravilli and it made a HUGE difference and even gave her the podium. Pedalling required lesser effort and was smoother.

“I had no idea crank length would be so crucial. Also, the Profile Design Fast Forward carbon seat post, enabled me to get a better bike fit, in terms of forward

offset, given my petite frame. I did the bike fit myself, trial and error and listening to how the body felt each time I rode” She sums up her story of cycling by saying “Cycling is like life. If you stop, you will lose your balance and fall. Just keep going” Way to go Eva. CRANK wishes you all the best. Keep riding and keep inspiring and keep us posted of your exploits. We are certain many more will get on to wheels after reading your story

CityTalk

NASHIK CYCLISTS FOUNDATION

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ashik the wine capital of India is blessed with beautiful weather just like Bangalore and Pune and it is no surprise that cycling is picking up fast and furious here. Leading this from the front are the folks from the Nashik Cyclists Foundation, the cities leading amateur riding club.

The foundation started its activity just like any other club of the country by the coming together of like-minded cyclists in 2012.

What CRANK finds truly distinctive is the superlatively organized manner in which this club goes around promoting cycling.

To start with, there is a proper organization structure with office bearers and committees with clearly defined roles and responsibilities with a formal communication process. It is indeed like a smoothly running large organization. There are over 1500 registered members. The foundation has an advisory board made of leading cyclists, civic bodies, civil society members and elected representatives who together uphold the cyclistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in Nashik and push for urban infrastructure like cycling lanes, parking and other facilities.

At an operating level there are committees responsible for organizing amateur and professional events, training programs

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for young riders, technical and statutory assistance to assist riders wanting to participate in official events and a lot more.

They even have a serious social media presence with an app on its way. It is simply amazing the way they are organized.

CRANK connected with the foundation president Mr.Jaspal Singh Virdi. We congratulated him for all the achievements and he like a true leader shared the credit with the vast team especially Shrikant Joshi, Vice president and Sandeep Jadhav the foundations secretary.

The list of initiatives and events are honestly far too many to cover. Besides routine events the foundation organizes several

signature rides like the Nashik-Pandharpur and Nashik-Shirdi and even international rides like Budapest-Vienna.

The stated objective of the foundation is to make Nashik the cycling capital of the country. And the manner in which they are going about, CRANK is confident that achieving this is just a matter of time. We wont be surprised if they edge out cities like Bangalore and Pune that informally occupy this position.

One thing you must do if you are a cyclist.

You must connect with Mr.Virdi and his team when in Nashik. They would be happy to welcome you.

Womens Day Ride

WorkBayWatch

Parts of the RD for Chain Threading

REMOVING AND REPLACING CHAINS

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There are certain times when you will want to change the chain on your bicycle, sometimes because it has worn out and needs a new one or when it snaps off and needs to be put back together or simply to give it a thorough wash which will be the case in this tutorial.

It is advisable to get the bicycle to a trained technician, but if you would like to do it yourself, it is not that hard.

Removing the chain It is easier to remove the chain when it offers minimum tension. Put the chain on the smallest ring in the front or the smallest cog on the back or slip the chain out all the way at the chain rings. Carefully check the chain to see if you have a quick link or a what is called a missing link. In that case this guide won’t be of sufficient use and staying tuned to our work bay watch section’s future editions should get you going.

If you use a chain without a quick link, you can use any chain tool and go ahead with

removing and/or replacing the chain yourself.

Find a comfortable spot on the chain to hold onto it. Then insert the chain tool onto any link and turn the handle clockwise pushing against a link pin. This will push the pin out the other side and your chain is now broken out of its loop. The recommended manner is to use a new joining pin each time. As joining pins have a tapered tip to ease the insertion. Carefully slide the chain out of the bicycle without twisting it around the RD (rear derailleur) Use degreaser or soak the chain in soap, then brush out the gaps in between the links with either a chain cleaning brush or even an old toothbrush. Before you start reattaching the chain, make sure it is thoroughly dry.

Joining the chain Shift the gears into the smallest ring at the rear derailleur and at the front just like you did when removing the chain. Slide the chain over the smallest ring on the cassette or

freewheel at the wheel, run it over the top most pulley wheel of the RD, over and above the guiding pin and around the outside of the lower pulley of the RD. Loop the chain onto the smallest chain ring starting from under it and bringing it over, run it through the eye of the front derailleur and connect it to the start point of the chain.

Use a new joining pin and push the tapered tip first into the links. Use a chain tool and turn the handle clockwise to push the pin all the way through the links. The tapered edge will appear on the other end of the chain and can be cut off with a pair of pliers or some chain tools will have a depression in them into which you insert the excess length of the pin and simply twist it to break it off at the groove.

You are now ready to go riding with your spick and span chain. If you are replacing a chain, the removal and joining part is the same as this guide, but choosing the right chain and adjusting it’s length is crucial and will be covered in episodes to come.

CRANK with ProCycle DECEMBER 15TH, 2016

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CrankActive

In our active section we bring to you Hot Air Ballooning

HOT AIR BALLOONING UP UP AND AWAAAAY….

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ky above, earth below, fire within” correctly said about those beautiful and astounding hot air balloons. Ballooning though considered a leisure activity is also a serious active sport. Serious balloonists in fact consider it up there with active sports like mountain biking and skiing. There are duration races like our time trials, mass start races, speed races and even terrain races like ballooning over oceans or deserts. Those who have done it have told CRANK that ballooning gives a serious adrenaline rush like no other.

Ballooning has come a long way since Brothers Montgolfier, Joseph-Michel and JacquesEtienne first invented it. Their first experimental live payload was bunch of sheep a duck and a rooster. Then followed the first manned voyage that lasted about 25 minutes covering 7 kilometers. And that when the journey began.

Today ballooning is a safe active hobby. You will need an aviation license just like that of a pilot who is qualified to do the job.

The fancy looking modern hot air balloons are actually made of materials such as ripstop nylon or polyester. The fabric generally is coated with a sealer silicone or polyurethane to avoid air permeability. The top roof is ventilated so that it can be controlled enabling the pilot to release hot air to regulate balloon movement. The burner unit gasifies liquid propane, mixes it with air, ignites the mixture, and directs the flame and exhaust into the mouth of the envelope. Propane

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fuel tanks are usually cylindrical metal pressure vessels.

A balloon also has array of gadgets assisting in flight. These commonly include an altimeter, a rate of climb indicator indicating envelopetemperature and ambient temperature. A GPS receiver can be useful to indicate ground speed and direction.

But before you get into active ballooning as an active sport and just want to enjoy the rush close to home CRANK suggests you head to Goa and meet the folks at Tiger hot air balloons pioneering in the field of hot air ballooning. These guys will take you up to experience the wind be it for commercial activities related to brand promotions, festival or just for fun. Tiger hot air balloon safaris operating under the brand name ‘Tiger balloon camping retreats India Pvt ltd’ are authorized to operate hot air balloons all over India.

Promoted by Shri Gajendra Singh Rathore and Shri Surendra Singh Rakhawat, chartered accountants and engaged in this practice for 15 years and they also have exhaustive experience in the field of wildlife tourism. Members of the British balloon and Airship club and Balloon federation of America, Tiger Balloon Safaris has successfully completed more than five years of commercial operations with more than five thousand highly satisfied passengers that have carried back memories of a lifetime. As the operation demands, balloons are sourced from the best

manufactures in the world and operations are supported by skilled technical crew as per global aviation standards. Importantly, compliance with internationally accepted norms like insurance of crew, passengers and equipment makes it more special.

The commercial air balloon flights of Tiger Hot Air Balloon Safaris are approved by DGCA (direct general of civil aviation). There is nothing quite like the uplifting sensation of a balloon ride.

The gentle sway of the balloon borne upon the winds, with a panorama, a bird’s eye view of the surroundings is an amazing experience. The 360 degree field of vision and the weightless sensation of being lifted off your feet up to heights of 2500 feet, can only be experienced in a hot air balloon.

Goa Tourism, Government of Goa have always taken initiatives to promote new tourism products and adventure sports in the state of Goa and has solely partnered with Tiger Balloon Safaris, for operating Hot Air Balloon flights in the state of Goa. Next time you think of a special moment or a family ride, think of the Tiger hot air balloon safari for customized flights. In near future unique flights such as ballooning over Bhangarh ruins, over Nimrana fort palace or Amer fort is on cards.

One thing is true in case of ballooning “You get carried away”! You can contact them on tigerballoonsafaris@gmail.com

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Giant Ultra Light 205g pr Pedals - Low profile design Color - Black, Silver, Red, Gold, Blue and Purple.

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