It’s that time of year when the interval between named storms seems to be down to days rather than weeks. So, with less opportunities to get out riding, it’s giving me more time to do some further upgrades to my bikes. (and spend more money!)

ALICE, my touring bike, is complete, at least for now until I get a few miles done on it and see just how it’s working out. The change to a x2 front derailleur has meant one thing. There is now no point in keeping drive-train components interchangeable between the bikes. So I can now look at doing an upgrade to my MTB which I have been considering for some time.

I have been toying with changing my crank-set from Shimano to Hope and have finally made my mind up to go ahead. I’ve ordered crank arms, a direct-mount chain-ring and a larger diameter bottom bracket. I’ve decided to go to 165mm length cranks. I had considered going down to the shortest ones that Hope do which is 155mm but think that may be just too big a change as I’m currently running 170mm. I’m hoping that this set-up will be stiffer than the Shimano I have fitted currently. It will be neater with the spiderless chain-ring and will definately be lighter. Once it arrives and it’s all fitted I’ll do a report.