Archive for January 20th, 2009

After moving to Memphis, TN from Warsaw, IN I discovered after a few rides that while traffic wasn’t too heavy, safety lights would probably be wise. I usually ride with two rear-facing LED flashers and one forward-facing safety LED white light. Not long after beginning this practice I noted how many batteries I was tossing in the trash. I know, I could have recycled them but finding a place in Memphis to recycle batteries is probably easier than I think but wasn’t on my agenda. Instead, I jumped unknowingly into the world of rechargeables with little knowledge of rechargeables. I bought an Energizer charger which accommodates both AA (2450mAh) and AAA (900 mAh). I needed this feature as my taillights used AAA while the headlight used AA.
At this point I should note that I still do not know much about rechargeable batteries and probably never will. If you see an error or would like to comment, please do so.
I have had few problems with these batteries. They run both the headlights and taillights equally well and none have failed (not able to be charged) after repeated use. I have only used some about a year and those probably only have 10-20 cycles on them. They do have an extended charge cycle so don’t think you’re going to charge these suckers while you’re gearing up for your ride. I’ve heard the long charge time (trickle charging or something like that) is good though because it allows for more charge cycles on the batteries. If you try to use these for any sort of mechanized electronic device, you will likely be disappointed. They don’t run my digital camera or run my son’s electronic cars very well. These are designed for lower output applications. I would like to know what’s designed for high output applications and whether they’ll charge on my current charger. Maybe one day I’ll look into it.
The Energizer batteries earn a 3 Broken Down Car Rating. (I don’t know enough about rechargeables to give them a better rating without looking more ignorant than I already look.)
Likes: Work well in LED lights.
Dislikes: Don’t run high input devices, pricey
Best Uses: LED lights and not much else.

I am a big believer in using what you already have until it is completely worn out. I have to try to fix everything two or three times before it either wears out completely or all hope is lost. This is the case with my current bike commuter.

I ride a 1997 Schwinn Homegrown mountain bike to work. The frame is in fairly good shape as far as I can tell although there is a lot of paint missing. Most of the components are the same. It’s probably easier to tell you what I’ve changed and why:

After two rear derailleurs, I converted to a single speed – the Performance-offered conversion kit – because I wanted to keep using my current hub (see Product Reviews White Industries Hubs). This seems to work well and I don’t miss the sound of grinding gears. I replaced the right break lever due to the pivot bearing failing. After two suspension forks, I went rigid with a Surly mountain fork. The seat did not fail but became very uncomfortable so I replaced it with a Specialized mountain seat. The White Industries crank arms failed last year due to striping at the interface of the arm and the hub spindle. Also replaced the bottom bracket as I decided to go with a splined system. The Shimano bottom bracket still seems fine and I kept it in case I need it for another bike. The rear wheel was rebuilt from a Mavic 220 (I think) to a Sun Rims Rhino Lite. Cables and housing have been replaced a couple of times. Numerous chains, of course. I will soon need to replace the seat post as the clamp which holds the seat began slipping this year and I have twice placed aluminum shims in to allow it to clamp harder. The seat post has also been bent slightly after years of use (and some abuse). The tires have changed from the VelociRaptors that were on there (which I hated) and I now ride a Hutchinson Python on the front (Love It!) and a Sweetskinz semi-slick on the back. I must ride treaded tires in Memphis due to the large quantities of sharp objects lining the roads.

Send me a description or photo of your primary means of transportation (as long as it’s not an undesirable vehicle) and I’ll publish you here (mason@biketofeel.com).