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Dura Ace 9000 Wheel Photos

Looks like Shimano's new Dura Ace carbon wheels were on display this past weekend (on top of a Team Sky support car.)  These look like 60mm rims to me, but they could be 78mm depending on the perspective.

Interestingly, it appears these wheels are set up for 10 speed, so they probably didn't go on the bikes that have been testing the new 11 speed Dura Ace 9000.

Photos after the jump:

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More Dura Ace 9000 Photos

As I talked about in my previous post about the new 11 speed Dura Ace group, there has been some wholesale redesign of the group.  Some new photos (actually scans, it appears) have surfaced, giving some more depth and detail to the group.

First up, the rear derailleur:

Dura Ace 9000 Rear Derailleur

From what we see here, it looks like they've redesigned the P-Knuckle a little bit and stylized the outer parallelogram pieces to look more “swoopy.”  The barrel adjuster also appears revised, and looks to be metal (could be glossy plastic, but aluminum would be nicer.)  The cage shape looks a little more angular with more material on the bottom of the cage.  Overall it doesn't look too bad, and I'm sure it will be typically smooth, Shimano trademark operation.

More photos after the jump:

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Mapping Your Ride: RideWithGPS

So many cyclists rely on Garmin units to direct them in their riding these days; gone are the days of consulting a paper map and cue sheet.  Not to mention that getting lost and asking for directions is basically a thing of the past.  No, now we can sit in the comfort of our own living room and plan a 50 mile ride, but with the myriad options out there, which one do you choose?  This go around, we'll have a look at RideWithGPS.com and explore some of it's features.

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Facepalm Files: The Sad Scott

StarTrekFacePalmI'm all for self expression, and I'm all for people riding their bikes.  If people need some kind of eccentric bike to motivate them to get out and pedal, then good for them.

Sometimes though, the power of the internet drops something into our lap that defies convention and circumvents all common sense.

The “FacePalm Files” chronicles these tales.

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Choosing Crankset Gearing

As winter gives way to spring, riders are storing their trainers and heading outside to ride on their favorite roads once again.  Spring is also the time in which many people consider upgrades to their bike, and one discussion I've seen relatively frequently is the “compact vs standard crankset” question.  Apparently, choosing crankset gearing is one of those things that people have a hard time deciding upon.  They post to forums, newsgroups, and Facebook groups, asking for an opinion on which crankset gearing their friends use.

Why not figure out which crankset gearing works best for you?

What are the benefits of each?  Which type of gearing should you use?  Let's explore the question of choosing crankset gearing and help you figure it out.

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