The Revolution - Benefits of 27.5 Wheels

Arguably the most important benefit of 27.5 over 29 is quicker acceleration. This is the "snap" that a rider feels when they push hard on the pedals. It is affected not just by overall static weight but also where the weight is distributed throughout the wheel. The farther the weight is from the center of the hub, the slower the acceleration. So a similarly constructed 1000-gram 29-inch wheel is slower to accelerate than a 1000-gram 26-inch wheel—because the larger diameter rim and longer spokes place weight farther from the hub. The key to snappy acceleration is minimizing the weight of the outermost components (rim, nipples, spokes, tire, tube). As you can see, a 27.5-inch wheel is only 1.5% slower to accelerate than a similarly constructed 26-inch wheel, but a 29-inch wheel is 3.6% slower than a similarly constructed 26-inch wheel.

A larger tire contact patch, increased stiffness, and optimized frame geometry improve traction, braking and handling.

The larger the diameter of a wheel, the greater the contact patch of the tire. A larger contact patch results in better traction, which leads to improved acceleration, deceleration and cornering. As you can see, a 27.5-inch wheel has a similar contact patch to the 29.

Lateral (side-to-side) frame stiffness can be affected by wheel size. To accommodate larger wheels, frame dimensions must be elongated. Therefore, a size medium 29-inch wheel frame has more lateral flex (bottom bracket and head tube) than a size medium 27.5 or 26-inch wheel frame-set. Additional flex compromises handling under heavy pedaling or sharp cornering.

The larger the wheel, the more difficult it is to optimize geometry, especially on smaller frames. As the frame size decreases, headtube heights become higher (in relation to saddle height). On 26 or 27.5-inch frames, it's less of a problem, but geometry limitations can affect smaller 29-inch-wheel frames.

Check the ranges of 27.5 2015 Model Giant Talon Bikes - 2014 - Giant Talon 27.5 Line Up

HST Basic Mt. Bike workshop

The day started at 9:00 am from Himalayan Single Track in the foggy cold winter morning. It was not long before we where all shedding off layers as we climbed up into the sunshine on the Mudkhu Road, Nagarjun Jungle on one side and the fog shrouded views of the expanding rural suburbs of Kathmandu valley on he other their side as we peddled up the steady incline.

Our group consisted of 12 riders and we arrived at the tea shop in Mudhku in time for a warming cup of Nepalie tea and some freshly made Chana and Anda ( chickpeas and eggs) . Didi and Dai at Mudhku Tea Shop really know how to look after local mountain bikers, go here any morning of the week and you will meet many local riders out enjoying their mountain bikes for fun and fitness. A great place to meet new freinds and only 8km from the city.

After the re engerizing tea break we climbed up a short but steep single track and got a close up look at some traditional farming houses as we literally rode throught thier back yards, much to the surprise and curiosity of the people that lived there. Finally our trail ended on a sunny ground overlooking the valleys beyond. 

Here the training began. Santosh and Lama gave an introduction to everyone and first we discussed what is "mountain biking" and what are " mountain bikes". A good place from which to start and develop an understanding of our two wheeled steeds.

From here Santosh went into a talk about the "M" Checks and the key safety points of checking your bike before you get on and ride it. The morning then progressed into demos on puncture repair, wheel removal, repairing broken chains and basic gear tuning. All valuable lessons for riders.

To end the day we moved on to a small session of mountain bike skills and bike handling which focused on the importance of the "Attack Position", bike handling, braking and body position. We had lots of fun doing that. Returning to Thamel our trail took us down some fun and steep singletracks in the paddyfeilds, a good place to practice our new found skills....

Why are courses like this so important? Well mountain bikes are a vehicle of recreation and sport, but we can only get out of them what we put in and by knowing more about how to maintain, look after and fix our bikes as well as a bit about better bike handling and body position can help us get a whole lot more out of our daily mountain biking experiences.

The Himalayan Single Track team is looking forward to doing more of these in the future.

www.himalayansingletrack.com

Brands we Stand By - Qaulity for Mountain Biking

At Himalayan Single Track we pride ourselves on quality and good service and we like to pass that on to our valued customers.  Here is some information about the brands we stock and the brands that support Himalayan Single Track. Although we understand the value of money and the expense of mountain biking we always advise our customers to go for quality over price as in the long term you will spend less and enjoy a whole other world of comfort, performance and reliability.

GIANT BIKES – “Ride Life, Ride Giant”
The driving force behind Giant is the philosophy – “Create a better cycling experience for people around the world.” After humble beginnings in 1972 this company has now expanded into a Multinational, Global Award winning company that produces some of the best technology and a huge percent of the worlds bikes every year!

The founders of Giant were craftsmen and engineers. They understood their strengths. So to make cycling more enjoyable and accessible to people around the world, they did what they knew best. They set out to improve the cycling experience by following three guiding principles: craftsmanship, innovation and inspiration.

"It began with lightweight aluminum frames. Giant’s ability to produce high-quality bikes at an affordable price allowed more riders to experience cycling in a whole new way. Since then, Giant has pioneered advancements in both aluminum and composite(Carbon) engineering. We introduced the first affordable carbon fiber bike, the Cadex 980 C, and transformed high-performance road bikes with our Total Compact Road design."

When is comes to mountain biking, Giant’s Maestro Suspension established a new level of performance for off-road riding and racing unseen before, allowing stiffer rear ends for climbing and more stable descending with superior traction and control. Giants mountain bike range includes Revel (29er Entry Level Bikes), Talon (Mid-range Hardtails), Anthem X (XC Full Suspension), XTC (Performance Hardtail), Reign ( All Mountain/Free Ride), Glory (Downhill) and Trance X (All Mountain).When you buy Giant you are not just buying a high performing affordable machine, you are buying into a highly renowned worldwide reputation.

In 2014 Giant is extending it's know-how and technology to include three wheels sizes – 26, 27.5 and 29 inches.

SHIMANO – “To promote health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us”
Shimano is one of the world’s biggest and well known distributors of quality bike parts and accessories.
The mission statement of Shimano says a lot about their passion for health and environment, two keys points many of us over look in our busy day to day lives.

"People know the joy of contacting their hearts to the breathing of nature. People know the joy of meeting someone to communicate with each other. That's simply because all people have nature in themselves."

And tools are largely connected with the joy of people.  Shimano has been providing attractive products with a focus on cycling and fishing, the most popular outdoor sports. Wind touching the skin, sunlight streaming through the trees and wave patterns covering the water excite the hearts of people. We are aiming to become a company to create excitements among people. We will continue to support people to realize their dreams to create new lifestyles to bring them closer to nature and share the joy of life with each other.

Without a doubt Shimano produce the best range of bike mechanical parts, making your riding experience smooth, seamless and pure fun! Reliable and durable bike parts at an affordable price are the mainstay of the market. High end performance is also high on the cards at Shimano. Himalayan Single Track Stock a range of bike components from Acrea (Entry Level) all the way up to the high performing and Ultra Light XTR.

BLACK DIAMOND - "Quality Outdoor Gear"
The Black Diamond name is associated with quality, high performance outdoor apparel and gear. The company was established in 1957.   “We're a company of users—it's who we are. We're the greatest dreamers about what could be, and the harshest of critics about what exists and because of this—the creation of Black Diamond is a process which will never end. The company today is more committed than ever, thanks to the many people here in the U.S, at Black Diamond Europe and at Black Diamond Asia whose limitless energy and hands-on involvement have created a promising future for all climbers and skiers worldwide.”

Although mainly focused on skiing and climbing, Himalayan Single Track has selected a small range of Black Diamond Camel Paks, Bladders and headlights that adapt perfectly to suit the needs of relational cyclists and mountain bikers in Nepal. Tough, Robust and great looking these items are now in store at Himalayan Single Track. Black Diamond is a product that will not let you down.

FUNKIER – “Look Like a Model, Ride Like a Pro”
Funkier are producers of outstanding performance and quality cycling wear and it’s a brand we love. Super cool designs make the clothing fun to wear. Funkier Bike is synonymous with design and manufacture of innovative, high-quality biking apparel for men and women. The professional experience and knowledge of the Funkier fashion chain, established in 1990, are translated directly into the biking apparel manufactured by its subsidiary, Funkier Bike. The advantages of a company that specializes in biking and is nourished by a fashion manufacturer are reflected in the result: a new generation of biking apparel - the trendiest and most comfortable biking clothes around!

The clothes - Quality, Comfort and Style on wheels!

Funkier Bike's cycling apparel includes professional elements from the world of fashion - they look good and feel fantastic. The ultimate biking clothes are manufactured using advanced technologies and perspiration evaporating materials that enable air to enter and leave in both directions. The use of different types of textile provides a pleasant, unrestricted ride in all weather conditions, and enables bikers to enjoy warm winter clothing and cool summer apparel. Just like other clothes manufactured by its mother company, Funkier Bike clothes are characterized by high quality textiles and sewing. Investment in product quality entails attention to the smallest of details without compromising even a zipper or label that may disrupt the ride - everything is adapted to providing the ultimate biking experience.

Check out some of the products on line -

View Himalayan Single Track Website

Beating the Winter Chills.

The best way to beat the winter blues is to be active and the best way to be active is to get out and ride your bike! But its cold I hear you say? Well here are some great products and solutions to keep you warm in the winter and to keep you riding your bike.

Conditions in Kathmandu during the winter are dry and dusty, so first let’s take care of the bike and its most important moving bits we call "The Drive Train" (Chain, Cassette, Crank and Derailleur’s). This is the part of the bike that keeps you moving and shifting gears effectively. So in this dry dusty season, make sure you use a small brush to remove the dust from these moving parts after riding and before riding use a Dry Chain Lube to keep your bike running smoothly. Wet lubes can easily "Gunk" up in the dusty Season!

Now what about you.....?If you want to enjoy winter riding then you have to have the right gear to keep you warm!

LAYERING UP

Base Layers- Base layers are good, tight fitting layers that go under your outer layers. They included a long sleeve top with a high neck, fitted wrist bands and a long tail that can be pulled down over your bottom region. Our advice is to buy the best quality inner layer you can afford, with this kind of thing quality is everything! One well made, well design base layer is a good investment.

COLD FEET

Our body looses most of its heat through the feet. So to keep them warm get some good socks, woolen ones are the best, but not too thick, if you wear to thicker socks, then you can reduce the circulation of blood to your feet which again can make your toes cold. Good shoes are important, not canvas ones, something a bit waterproof is good to keep out the cold air. Shoe covers are also a really good idea to keep your feet insulated and warm for riding. Funkier make some really awesome Micro fleece waterproof shoe covers with Lycra for a snug fit over your shoes.

HOT HEAD

We always wear a helmet when we go biking, yes its true, but a helmet alone will not keep your head warm. Try an elasticized cotton buff, or a cycling specific micro fleece head cap for really cold times. Make sure to cover your ears, another key point of our body susceptible to cold.

FROZEN FINGERS

Our fingers play a key role in cycling…we use them for braking and controlling the bike but they are always one of the first parts of our bodies to get cold. So gloves are the way to go. Here you need specific cycling gloves which are not bulky and will not impede your bike handling. Full fingered warm gloves which have a good tight fit and stretchable material.

ACCESSORIES

Leg Warmers and Arm Warmers are two great accessories for keeping you warm or warming up at the start of your ride and cooling down at the end of it. They are easy to peel on and off while riding to regulate your body temperature.

FROM THE OUTSIDE

A good top layer is essential to keep you warm. Stay away from  cheap rain coat fabrics as it makes you sweat, look for a light breathable outer layer that is windproof. This will seal in the heat, not make you sweat to much or overheat and make your winter riding enjoyable. Most cycling specific winter jackets also have nifty pockets to stash tools and tubes.

DON’T FORGET

Remember a few important things, getting wet will make you more cold and getting wet also includes sweat! So if you plan on doing a long hill climb, it’s a good idea to carry a dry top to put on for the downhill. Remember it’s okay to take your outer layer off while climbing, but make sure you put it on for the downhill, this is where you will get cold!

SAFTEY TIPS

*Helmet Fit – When wearing a cap or buff under your helmet, be sure to readjust your helmet fittings and straps to keep your helmet correctly fitted and safe. Many people neglect this.

*Light – In winter time with early starts, it can be dark, always carry a headlight or a cycling torch with you, don’t forget also in the afternoon the light fades fast, so better be prepared.

*Hydration – It’s common in winter for us to drink less, but just because its cold does not mean we don’t need water….always drink, always hydrate and keep your performance level great.

Drop by Himalayan Single Track to see our great Funkier Winter Cycling products.Online Bike Shop

Happy Trails.

Funkier Winter Base Layer

Full Fingered Riding Gloves

Micro Fleece Leg Warmers

Micro Fleece Head Cap

Winter Shoe Covers

2014 SPECIAL MOUNTAIN BIKE TRIP - UPPER MUSTANG TIJI FESTIVAL

We have written May words before about the simple awesomeness of mountain biking in the Upper Mustang Region. This natural desert like area abounds with trails, single tracks and challenging passes with some very very spectacular scenery along the way. But to make it even more special, in the month of May, during the Full Moon the local people celebrate the Tiji Festival.  Tiji is one of the most colorful and authentic Buddhist Festivals in Nepal and it makes a special trip in Upper Mustang even more spectacular and memorable.

Its a three-day ritual known as "The chasing of the Demons" that centers on the Tiji myth. The myth tells of a deity named Dorje Jono who must battle against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. The demon father wreaked havoc on Mustang by bringing a shortage of water (a highly precious resource in this very dry land) and causing many resulting disasters from famine to animal loss. Dorje Jono eventually beats the demon and banishes him from the land. Tiji is a celebration and reaffirmation of this myth and throughout the festival the various scenes of the myth will be enacted. It is of course timed to coincide with the end of the dry winter / spring season and will usher in the wetter monsoon season (the growing season for Mustang).

Tiji comes from the word "ten che" meaning the hope of Buddha Dharma prevailing in all worlds and is effectively a spring renewal festival. Its a colourful festvvial of dancing demons, horse back riding and racing and many other local tradition, surely an added highlight to any mountain bike trip in the Upper Mustang Region.

ITINERARY

17^th May - ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU- Accom: Hotel Courtyard

18^th May - KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING & WARM UP RIDE- Accom: Hotel Courtyard

19^th May - DRIVE TO POKHARA- Accom: Attiti Resort

20^th May -  POKHARA FLY TO JOMSOM & BIKE TO JHONG (3550 meters)-  Accom: Teahouse

21^st May - JHONG TO SAMAR (3660 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

22^nd May - SAMAR TO GHAMI (3520 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

23^rd May - GHAMI TO CHARANG (3560 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

24^th May - CHARANG TO LO-MANTHANG (3810 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

25^th May - LO-MANTHANG – Full Moon and Start of the Tiji Festival

26^th May - LO-MANTHANG – Tiji Festival

27^th May - LO-MANTHANG – Tiji Festival

28^th May - LO-MANTHANG TO GAMI (3520 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

29^th May - GAMI TO SAMAR (3660 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

30^th May - SAMAR TO JOMSOM (2980 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

31^st May - JOMSOM TO TATOPANI (1190 meters)- Accom: Teahouse

1^st Jun - TATOPANI TO POKHARA- Accom: Attiti Resort

2^nd Jun - POKHARA TO KATHMANDU- Accom: Hotel Courtyard

3^rd Jun - DEPARTURE- TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT

The Annapurna Trail- An Epic Mountain Bike Journey

Annapurna Circuit – 14 Days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)

2103 Winter Season Departures Sept 16^th , Oct 4^th, Oct 25^th

2014 Spring Departures – 5^th April, 3^rd May

Annapurna is a Sanskrit name which literally means "full of food" (feminine form), but is normally translated as Goddess of the Harvests. In Hindu Culture, Annapurna is  "... the universal and timeless kitchen-goddess ... the mother who feeds. Without her there is starvation, a universal fear." Not only is Annapurna the Mother Goddess, to us she is also the Goddess of Mountain Biking!

The Annapurna Circuit Trail is by far one of the most popular mountain biking journeys in Nepal. Its highly scenic path takes you around the Annapurna Massif, showcasing the spectacular scenery and mountain culture of Nepal along the way.  The crossing of Throng La at 5580 meters, makes this ride ideal for anyone looking for a mountain biking challenge in the Himalayas  which is featured in “Yak Attack” one of the fifth toughest mountain stage bike races in the world.

The inbound trail follows the Marysandi River as it carves its way through the gorge between Annapurna and Manasulu. Riding up the Valley, we halt for two nights in Manang, at an altitude of  3540 meters, this is an ideal place to rest and acclimatize before breaking the 4000 meter mark. Manang is home to the horse men and archers famous in the region and is a nice place to rest and explore with many possibilities for day hikes in the hills around the region.The region is mainly inhabited by the Thakali and Gurung People of Nepal who mostly practice the religion of Buddhism, given the areas proximity to Tibet. Spend some time exploring the unique mountain lifestyle and

The trail peaks at Throng La, a five to ten hour ascent from Throng Phedi, where you leave at 5am in the dark morning, climbing on wards and upwards on the snow covered trail. This is the day you will test your metal! This part of the trail is 100% carry. You reach up to 5580 meters, hold your breath here for some of the most amazing views in the Himalaya! Steal yourself the descent (The trail maybe snow covered)! Enjoy the ride as you drop down into the Kaligandaki Valley on the boarder of the fabled Upper Mustang Region.

The descent from Throng La must be one of the most thrilling 3000 meter drops in the world! A real challenge for any XC rider, no matter how skilled you are. Watch out for Yaks and Trekkers as you go speeding by down the holy temple of Muktianth. Stay here overnight or head on further down to the quaint village of Kagbeni. From here its two days of all downhill. Take the jeep track, of choose the side single track trails that explore the alpine forests and remote villages. You will be well rewarded for the days of uphill.

This ride is a gift of unforgettable images and memories, as you cycle along the ancient trade and supply routes you can almost lose yourself in time as if you were one of the original explorers of this area (though they were probably riding a donkey). You will also relish the challenge that the Annapurna Trail presents to mountain bikers, and let’s not forget the views are nothing less than spectacular and the village scenery truly inspirational.

PLANNING TO RIDE THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT? – HERE ARE SOME TRAIL TIPS

What to Ride- The choice is tough here. You don’t want to lug a weighty beast up the mountains, but it certainly would be nice to ride it down! We suggest you to bring a light Hardtail or an XC style Fully, something like an Anthem X is good for this kind of trip. Remember you might have to carry it for long periods of time. If you are bringing your own bike, bring along some spare parts, tires, tubes, hanger/drop out and perhaps a chain and derailleur. Most importantly make sure you are comfortable on your bike.

Does HST Hire out Bikes for the Ride? Yes we have for Annapurna 10 speed XTC Hardtails(US$18 Per Day)  and Giant Anthem X ($35 Per Day) for the ride. Bike hire includes all the bits and spare parts you will need and a helmet if you need one. We are also happy to put your own peddles and seats on the bike to make it more comfy for you.

GOT SOME EXTRA DAYS ON THE TRAIL - ADD IT ON

Ride the Yak - The journey is already epic, but make it more epic by adding on an extra four days and riding right from HST door step in Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara, just like the race Yak Attack. The journey to Besishar itself covers about 200km with over 5000 meters of climbing as you cycle through the Himalayan Foothills dotted with rural farms, temples and subtropical jungle. You will already feel challenged before you reach the mountains.

 

Raft the Kali - Just 12km from Beni is the put in place for rafting on one of the world’s most beautiful rivers, the holy Kali Gandaki (The River named after the goddess Kali the goddess of “Time and Change and empowerment”). This three day rafting journey is epic, taking you through the deepest gorge in the world and leaving far behind the mountains you have just ridden through. Camp out overnight on white sandy beaches, sleeping under the roof of a thousand stars.

VIEW TRIP

KATHMANDU VALLEY – HIDDEN GETAWAYS

Paulines Guest House – Perfect Midweek Getaway

Tucked away in a mystical northern pocket of the Valley just above the Newari Village of Tolka you will find Paulines Guest House. Owned by two French ladies and their assortment of Dogs, Donkeys and stray animals, this is a delightful place for a mid week over night excursion. A forty minute ride after work can take you there, leave your bikes in the Garage at the village and walk seven minutes up to the renovated farmhouse. Four rooms, nice facilities and a completely relaxing environment make this a nice place to escape the stress of work. The food here is excellent, fresh, hearty and tasty, best washed down with a bottle of handpicked wine. Abundant trails make a nice option for a morning ride before heading back to the office.

Shivapuri Village Resort

Situated on the flip side of the Valley Rim, over Shivapuri National Park, this rustic resort is surround by dense jungle and enveloped in peaceful silence, sit back on the slate patio and lap up the Himalayan Views. The rooms are cozy all with fire places and the food and service is great. You can ride here from Kakani and then continue on down to Sundarijal the next day, or drive up along the newly made Nuwakot Road and hike or bike down the next day. A great weekend getaway.

Namobuddha Organic Farmhouse

Just outside the Kathmandu Valley beyond Dhulikhel you can find Namobuddha Resort. This beautiful place sitting on a rural hillside is back dropped by the Himalaya and the Namobuddha Monastery. Get in touch with your Buddhist side!  A beautiful place 4 hours riding from Kathmandu takes you over Lakuri Bhangyang and down to Pauntie. You can then return via jeep or ride back through Banepa, Nala and Bhaktapur.

Himalayan Single Track offers guided weekend and overnight mountain bike rides to all of these places. We love to showcase the great trails and the great accommodation right in our back yard. The more people that visit these places and keep them running the better we can promote mountain biking in the Valley and help preserve, develop and expand the trails for the future of all cyclists in Nepal.

If you are a local or an expat, get in touch with these great resorts for local and Xpats rates and enjoy a lovely time away with your friends or a romantic getaway with somebody special.