Just on another note I took your advice and purchased a Second Hand race bike, a Cannondale Supersix Evo Hi Mod (Dura ace), although it's a 2014 model it is in immaculate condition and I beleive the frames have hardly changed since then, unbelievable value ended up paying $1700.00 AUD after some haggling. ( same model Peter Sagan rode in 2014). Cheers David.
I hope it makes you felt better to wear bright coloured clothes but it’s been tested and doesn’t make motorists see you more. The flashing rear light was found to be effective in the same research.
I'm riding a TCR SL0 (2014) and after a few wheel 'upgrades' over the years I've come to realise how good the original PSLR rims actually were. Great vid Cam.
That is so true! They also light! But I ended up in a pathhole and rim was smashed (85kg rider) - that's the only disadvantage, they were not as stiff as carbon, but perfect for climbing
Agree Cam. There is nothing better than establishing a relationship with a quality bike shop. Mine is Essendon Cyclery: Riley and Gareth. Top blokes who provide great advice and care.
Cam,you won’t like this but quite seriously the best safety upgrade is....a mirror,specifically an “Italian road bike mirror”. It’s discrete and very effective in providing rear view awareness. Forget the jibes,you won’t look back again,with you’re head that is!
Great vid Cam! I would definitely agree. Finding a great local bike shop has made not only purchasing all types of gear better but you meet other cycling enthusiasts in your area that you can enjoy a ride with!!
Hello! You should also take a look at the Garmin Varia rear light/radar. It pack with a lot of cool features and I found myself a lot more aware of my surroundings. It change the way I ride my bike.
The Varia is great on rural roads, and absolutely awesome on descents. But I remove it in urban areas, as the constant alerts are actually a distraction.
Like DC Rainmaker states; There’s 2 types of cyclists. Those who love the Varia Radar and those who’ve never used it. Must have for rural riding, climbs, descents. Not quite as useful in urban traffic.
Was run over by a drunk driver and left for dead. Two years on I could walk again, although I still set off the airport metal detectors. To say I was timid about riding again would be an understatement. The Garmin Varia has been the game changer. Totally in love with the thing.
Love the colour of the jersey...great point made regarding visibility....the helmet...simply awesome...I will look into this as my wife is always worried every time I head out....great work..👍🇨🇦
Hi @Cam Nicholls , well, interestingly, i bought that same 3T aero handlebar online without test it, to replace a normal round handlebar, mainly for comfort... and i love it. Those bumps on the side, that you seem not to like, are really what i like the most on the bar :) i spend good amount of time on that area of the bar, and feel very very comfortable... just don't know, but my hand fits there perfectly... it's a odd shape, but that's what it is... what's nice to someone may not be nice to everyone... by the way, like your channel... very nice... Cheers!!!
Apart from the safety measures you mention, I use 3M reflective tape on various parts of my bike and the back of my shoes. Cheap to buy a roll, cut to size and place where you need it...simple! It increases your visibility in low light conditions.
Front and back camera/lights, in all the 5 claim cases our club members took against bad drivers, we won all of them, because of the footage we provided.....
Front strobing lights make all the difference. Use them all the time. Recently I forgot to charge mine and like a bad joke a left turning car either doesn’t see me or ignores me. When my lights are working properly drivers seem to give me more room. Maybe it’s only psychological but having the Garmin Varia at the rear communicating with the computer upfront is comforting . At the very least watching the approaching dots on the screen allows for greater awareness at a given moment.
The Giant integrated stem and bar was a great upgrade for me and a Spesh Power saddle. Now upgraded wheels to zipp 404's, my SL 0 feels spot on now, like a new bike. Also run the Exposure Blaze Reakt peloton on the rear, the brightening braking and dimming in a chain gang make it ideal in all scenarios.
Hi Cam. I ride mainly during the sunset or before the sunrise. I use a Proviz switch men's gilet yellow in one side and reflective on the other side. Also, I use rear and front light even during the day. I also use one light on each arm un orden to be seen in the roundabouts. That's is really important for me!. One little rear mirror is also a good idea. See you
I bought the same handlebars online 3 years ago thinking that they look ergonomic but for sure that lump felt rubbish immediately. I've replaced them with a wide flat top carbon bar from TOSEEK and couldn't be happier.
I am wearing a wowow roady vest to make myself more visible at the moment! But it results in the reverse of your colour scheme, Cam, my winter bike is nearly fluo orange and the vest is fluo yellow. On the bike shop issue - I am totally with you. It's simply easier to have a look at gear and parts; it's also eco-friendlier, because you don't have all those shipments and returns.
I've had those same 3t bars for 2 years. They're the coolest looking bars, but pretty unique as you said. The reach is about 24mm longer than most bars, which is crazy. They're also narrower in the same size than most bars. I could never get 100 percent comfortable in them and ended up switching them out for Vision bars.
Good to see that you've gone with lights. I feel naked riding without them. A high brightness helmet is something else that I ride with. I could care less about bike fashion and I'd much rather be seen in my bright yellow helmet than be skittled.
Great vid as usual Cam. As mentioned below, I cannot recommend the Varia radar highly enough. I ride a lot of open roads with vehicles doing 80-110kmph and by far the best safety tech I've ever invested in!! Get on it! Also, agree totally re the Aeronova bars!.....I swapped mine out for the 3t Superergo bars and now bliss! BTW, I really like the kit. Too many dark colours (me included!) on the road.
I have flashing lights front and back at all times, but I also have a Lumos smart helmet with flashing front and rear light (plus a movement activated brake light and indicators) for commuting in Brisbane during the week. It also has crash notification. I don’t want anyone, either a car, pedestrian, dopier cyclist or scooter riders to not see me. Plus I run cameras front and back at all times
I ride with my hands in a similar spot and suffer from numb hands. I switched to sworks aerofly bars. Pricey i know but they are so comfy and helped reduce the numbness in my right hand considerably. By helping reduce the vibration and also the big flat spot i can rest my hands
Definitely wearing brighter clothing these days (sick of everything being black anyway ) and the Garmin varia gives you a lot of confidence and a few seconds to look back and assess the situation and even bail into the ditch if needed. Roads are pretty narrow where i live in NZ and lots of tourist traffic not used to driving on the left - well worth the investment.
That jersey is bright and highly visible, without being "safety orange". Me like. The other good thing is it is a solid block of colour, and not camo/disruptive pattern. The army wear camo to not be seen - this is NOT what you want as a cyclist.
Hi Cam, I wear a fluoro yellow jersey & socks with front and back lights working on all rides and your Giant bike would be a great match👍. Of note I also have some reflective yellow patches on my bike & helmet. Another great video Mate 👏👏🇦🇺
the 3T handlerbar actually feels very confortable for me, the big bump fits my hands very well, I guess is just a matter of personal taste. Tho you have a really good point on buying stuff online without not knowing how it really feels
Great safety points cam. It's worth spending some good dollars on front and rear lights. I have bought many lights on line and most have been average. Knog have some great lights and money well spent. Looking forward to your review on the tcr.
Aside from lights, I've got cameras back and front. Not being one to hesitate on overkill, I've also got rear radar. Trouble is all the kit makes a mockery of a ultra light bike!
Another great video Cam! I always ride with light here in India be it day or night, the roads are crazy so every little helps. I’ll check out the lights you recommended as the irregular flashing pattern sounds like a great idea. Do you find using them at night is distracting for you as you ride though?
Been running daytime lights for a couple of years (as way too many cars and even pedestrians were pulling/stepping out in front of me)now along with a pink POC jersey which seems to do the trick here in the UK apparently fluro doesn't work. Love the bar tape BTW, what brand is it?
Its funny .. I have the 3T Aeronova bars on my bike and find them extremely comfortable. I suppose its like saddles .. personal choice. Was your one the carbon version?
How did you find "the right one" for the saddle? Being a noob substantially-proportioned cyclist; the saddle has been the major challenge for me. I managed to "survive" an 80 km charity ride but it wasn't pretty and I'm just sticking to the indoor smart trainer an hour or so at a time for now because of my saddle issues...
Cam I can HIGHLY recommend the Varia radar from Garmin, watch GPLama and DC Rainmaker videos reviewing them... it is wonderful to have "eyes" in the back of your head and knowing how many cars are behind you and how far they are away. Thx for the heads-up on the helmet GPS tech too!
I actually don't mind a Hi Vis bike or clothing, my current bike has yellow and white striping over black sand it's almost invisible. A mate has a bright orange Focus Paralane, and you can't miss it!! Similarly yellow and orange shoes create awesome "distraction" to attract attention to the presence of a cyclist I reckon
Always worried about Seat replacement, being old and brought up with the Iconic Turbo which I still have on a couple of my bikes. On my Carbon I have the SI Flite. Getting a bit worn and tired. Do I stick with Selle Italia or change as the product choices are endless. Question is does a particular manufacturer suit certain backsides. Could influence my upgrade in the future. Keep up the informative stuff you do,
I am ultimately reviewing the frame, the bits and pieces should always be personal. Hard to compare as one is aero and the other all round. I like both though. Cheers Byron. Cam
100%, it will potentially be the primary culprit. It's cutting off circulation in your body. Get your sit bone width measured at a bike store and they can get you on a better seat.
Cam, one of the major environmental factors you called out in your crash was sun glare on the driver’s vision placing you almost invisible in shadow. Is there anything you think can help with this other than awareness when riding and spotting theses hazards ahead and being careful to ensure if the driver doesn’t see you you still have thought ahead and are ready to avoid any collision? Do you think your safety upgrades will help here?
Good memory mate and thanks for bringing this up. Hard to say definitively. I didn't have a front light with a pulse pattern and I was wearing a dark kit riding through shade, so I would hope these items combined would help. Cheers, Cam
I love that bar tape! But I’ve also been very happy with that handlebar you rejected. I spend about 80% of my ride time with the bulges at the base of my thumbs (thenar eminences) resting along the curved area.
thanks for the tip on the helmet... i'll be adding that to my collection soon. i ride with a giro, it looks pretty good, but can't touch that ANGI system. never had any specialized gear, and in my california years i often felt like the only rider without any. i'll also be adding those exposure lights, which are priced the same as the ones i use now, but seem to offer a bit more. as for the supacaz tape... i have that on my trek at the moment, and i have some thoughts.... i bought it bc it looked cool, and sagan was pushing it, so i figured it must be some of the best out there. it started off feeling pretty ok, although if i'm being real, i was a bit disappointed at how mild the tack was. i mean, it's called "super sticky kush"!!! (any recommendations on super tacky tape? i'm still on the hunt...) but then once the supacaz weathered just a bit, after a handful of summertime rides, it became permanently slick. it's still on my bike, and i hate it, but i haven't made time to swap it out yet. i have a stockpile of different tapes around my place, i just need to decide it's time to finally rid myself of the kush. maybe i'm still remembering how expensive it was, and am hoping to milk a few more miles out of it before i move on to something better. who knows? nothing makes sense anymore. keep on keepin on, man.
@@CamNicholls i've seen some pros using a prologo tape that looks amazing, but i haven't had any real life run ins with it yet. probably time to make some bike shop friends...
You don’t mention that all helmets are not created equal. Virginia Tech in the US are now doing comprehensive testing of all popular helmets. There is a surprisingly big difference between them. Common sense to use this info when choosing a new helmet.
I always prefer bright coloured socks... Reason being is the up down movement during cycling catches the drivers attention . Well that's my unresearched view
New jersey looks good Cam but I don't know how it will go with your red BMC. I threw all my orange jerseys out when I bought my red bikes! Can't ride with clashing colours! 😉 😆 I was also told that white helmets and bright flouro socks were best seen by drivers. See you out on the road. Cheers Peter
The problem with giant is when you can't get a giant representative in a major city like the capital of Portugal. And they only deal through stores. Then you're stuck!
I guess that Australians experience the same problems with non-rider drivers that we in the US experience based on the modifications you have made to your bike and to your personal protective gear. It’s unfortunate that bike riders need to protect ourselves against drivers instead of making it mandatory that drivers take more care to look out for us. I can only suggest that you use your platform to advocate for more driver consciousness so bicyclists can be safer on the road without spending more money on personal safety equipment.
I’ve never understood why other cyclist insist on wearing black just to look cool. I ride a lot on roads in light colours, fluoro yellow shoes and socks, with flashing lights. For me it’s about being seen by other road users and staying safe, rather than looking too cool.
I have a Giant TCT 2004, Composite 0, large frame, Dura Ace 7800 group set. Please subscribers, I need advice as to what are my carbon wheel options, currently running alloys Mavic Ksyriums 13mm internal width on 23mm Vittoria Rubino tyres. I have never tried 25mm tyres, and have been advised by LBD that 28mm will not fit. It appears to me the modern carbon wheels would be too wide for my brake and frame clearance, My understanding is 23mm tyres will only be accommodated on 13mm and 15mm internal widths, and most of the carbon wheels start from 17mm internals that would be fitted with a 25mm tyre as a minimum. Has anybody had any experience running wider rims greater than external 20mm on this model year 2004 TCR? The bike shown in the video I assume is a later year model TCR, has the geometry been stretched and frame widened.? You mentioned Giant SLR 1 wheels as an option. I am not a racer and looking for a mid range affordable carbon option if one exists...Cheers
Sorry for irrelevant question, but can i ask you a question? When you adjust saddle tilt, how do you tighten or loose the “front” knob(or screw) if you use non cut-out saddle? It seems like allen key cant reach in there if you don’t use cut-out saddle. Do you just use thumb to tighten it? Did only using thumb give enough leverage/force ? Is it possible to tight it enough, if you want a nose-down (tilt) saddle position? I use about 4 degree down. Would that be possible? Id really appreciate for the reply.
Interesting comment Cam... “no more pins and needles in my hands since having a comfy seat”. Is it the saddle that can cause this discomfort in the hands🤔 I also like the Spec Toupe Expert saddle on my Roubaix and have the Bontrager on my Cannondale. Bontrager do a great offer, 30 day money back guarantee with all their gear, if you don’t like it within 30 days, exchange of refund. Lucky for me I have a good Local Bike Shop😉 Check out the SeeSense bike likes, really good also. Sorry to go on, great video as always😊👍
I wear similar coloured jerseys but have come to the conclusion that a lot of Kiwi drivers are legally Blind but continue to drive without their guide-dog in the car! #livingdangerouslyinauckland
Cam, I always wear bright fluoro socks studies have shown that moving components are more visible to drivers than static components. Cheers.
Good call, cheers David. Cam
Just on another note I took your advice and purchased a Second Hand race bike, a Cannondale Supersix Evo Hi Mod (Dura ace), although it's a 2014 model it is in immaculate condition and I beleive the frames have hardly changed since then, unbelievable value ended up paying $1700.00 AUD after some haggling. ( same model Peter Sagan rode in 2014). Cheers David.
@@davidcummings7735 That's epic, well played David. Enjoy.
Same
I hope it makes you felt better to wear bright coloured clothes but it’s been tested and doesn’t make motorists see you more. The flashing rear light was found to be effective in the same research.
I'm riding a TCR SL0 (2014) and after a few wheel 'upgrades' over the years I've come to realise how good the original PSLR rims actually were. Great vid Cam.
Cheers mate and thanks for sharing. Cam
That is so true! They also light! But I ended up in a pathhole and rim was smashed (85kg rider) - that's the only disadvantage, they were not as stiff as carbon, but perfect for climbing
Agree Cam. There is nothing better than establishing a relationship with a quality bike shop. Mine is Essendon Cyclery: Riley and Gareth. Top blokes who provide great advice and care.
Cam,you won’t like this but quite seriously the best safety upgrade is....a mirror,specifically an “Italian road bike mirror”. It’s discrete and very effective in providing rear view awareness. Forget the jibes,you won’t look back again,with you’re head that is!
Great vid Cam! I would definitely agree. Finding a great local bike shop has made not only purchasing all types of gear better but you meet other cycling enthusiasts in your area that you can enjoy a ride with!!
Hello! You should also take a look at the Garmin Varia rear light/radar. It pack with a lot of cool features and I found myself a lot more aware of my surroundings. It change the way I ride my bike.
Will do, thanks for the nudge. Cam
The Varia is great on rural roads, and absolutely awesome on descents. But I remove it in urban areas, as the constant alerts are actually a distraction.
Like DC Rainmaker states; There’s 2 types of cyclists. Those who love the Varia Radar and those who’ve never used it. Must have for rural riding, climbs, descents. Not quite as useful in urban traffic.
Was run over by a drunk driver and left for dead. Two years on I could walk again, although I still set off the airport metal detectors. To say I was timid about riding again would be an understatement. The Garmin Varia has been the game changer. Totally in love with the thing.
Love the colour of the jersey...great point made regarding visibility....the helmet...simply awesome...I will look into this as my wife is always worried every time I head out....great work..👍🇨🇦
Nice one Kennedy, cheers, Cam
Great honest review regarding lights especially at the sunrise/sunset issue.
Can't wait for the review - looking fwd to it. Cheers
Hi @Cam Nicholls , well, interestingly, i bought that same 3T aero handlebar online without test it, to replace a normal round handlebar, mainly for comfort... and i love it. Those bumps on the side, that you seem not to like, are really what i like the most on the bar :) i spend good amount of time on that area of the bar, and feel very very comfortable... just don't know, but my hand fits there perfectly... it's a odd shape, but that's what it is... what's nice to someone may not be nice to everyone... by the way, like your channel... very nice... Cheers!!!
Nice video very informative as usual , still sorry for your crash and relive that you came of that safe and sound
Cheers Sofia. Cam
Apart from the safety measures you mention, I use 3M reflective tape on various parts of my bike and the back of my shoes. Cheap to buy a roll, cut to size and place where you need it...simple! It increases your visibility in low light conditions.
Thanks for sharing Paul. Cam
I like the 3T bump at the transition from flat to round on the bar. It fits in the cup my hand. Feels comfortable and secure. All personal preference.
Absolutely it is, thanks for sharing your experiences with it. Cam
Front and back camera/lights, in all the 5 claim cases our club members took against bad drivers, we won all of them, because of the footage we provided.....
Front strobing lights make all the difference. Use them all the time. Recently I forgot to charge mine and like a bad joke a left turning car either doesn’t see me or ignores me.
When my lights are working properly drivers seem to give me more room.
Maybe it’s only psychological but having the Garmin Varia at the rear communicating with the computer upfront is comforting . At the very least watching the approaching dots
on the screen allows for greater awareness at a given moment.
The Giant integrated stem and bar was a great upgrade for me and a Spesh Power saddle. Now upgraded wheels to zipp 404's, my SL 0 feels spot on now, like a new bike. Also run the Exposure Blaze Reakt peloton on the rear, the brightening braking and dimming in a chain gang make it ideal in all scenarios.
A bright coloured helmet does wonders for being seen by drivers.
Great point, thanks for sharing Matthew. Cam
Bright socks & shoes are great too, as the up/down motion catches the motorists eye, from both the front and back and circular motion from the side.
No use if a driver isn't looking.
As a motorcyclist, the hi-viz yellow color attracts the human eye like nothing other
I too had an accident some years ago, now I ride wearing bright color clothes and a tail light. Ride safe guys ✌😃
Thanks for sharing mate. Cam
Hi Cam. I ride mainly during the sunset or before the sunrise. I use a Proviz switch men's gilet yellow in one side and reflective on the other side. Also, I use rear and front light even during the day. I also use one light on each arm un orden to be seen in the roundabouts. That's is really important for me!. One little rear mirror is also a good idea. See you
I bought the same handlebars online 3 years ago thinking that they look ergonomic but for sure that lump felt rubbish immediately.
I've replaced them with a wide flat top carbon bar from TOSEEK and couldn't be happier.
I bought the 3T carbon Aeronova online and love them so much I bought a second pair. Highly recommend.
I am wearing a wowow roady vest to make myself more visible at the moment! But it results in the reverse of your colour scheme, Cam, my winter bike is nearly fluo orange and the vest is fluo yellow.
On the bike shop issue - I am totally with you. It's simply easier to have a look at gear and parts; it's also eco-friendlier, because you don't have all those shipments and returns.
I've had those same 3t bars for 2 years. They're the coolest looking bars, but pretty unique as you said. The reach is about 24mm longer than most bars, which is crazy. They're also narrower in the same size than most bars. I could never get 100 percent comfortable in them and ended up switching them out for Vision bars.
Good to see that you've gone with lights. I feel naked riding without them. A high brightness helmet is something else that I ride with. I could care less about bike fashion and I'd much rather be seen in my bright yellow helmet than be skittled.
Great vid as usual Cam. As mentioned below, I cannot recommend the Varia radar highly enough. I ride a lot of open roads with vehicles doing 80-110kmph and by far the best safety tech I've ever invested in!! Get on it! Also, agree totally re the Aeronova bars!.....I swapped mine out for the 3t Superergo bars and now bliss! BTW, I really like the kit. Too many dark colours (me included!) on the road.
Looks like a need a new seat. I do get pins and needles in my left hand a lot. Thanks for mentioning that Cam.
I have flashing lights front and back at all times, but I also have a Lumos smart helmet with flashing front and rear light (plus a movement activated brake light and indicators) for commuting in Brisbane during the week. It also has crash notification.
I don’t want anyone, either a car, pedestrian, dopier cyclist or scooter riders to not see me. Plus I run cameras front and back at all times
I ride with my hands in a similar spot and suffer from numb hands. I switched to sworks aerofly bars. Pricey i know but they are so comfy and helped reduce the numbness in my right hand considerably. By helping reduce the vibration and also the big flat spot i can rest my hands
Definitely wearing brighter clothing these days (sick of everything being black anyway ) and the Garmin varia gives you a lot of confidence and a few seconds to look back and assess the situation and even bail into the ditch if needed. Roads are pretty narrow where i live in NZ and lots of tourist traffic not used to driving on the left - well worth the investment.
I've also found that my giant and me are adorned with specialized kit. It's partially because of convenience but i've found it works well for me too.
Cam, first I thought you are giving the TCR as gift when I saw the thumbnail
haha! No, I will be keeping it for the time being! Cheers, Cam
That jersey is bright and highly visible, without being "safety orange". Me like. The other good thing is it is a solid block of colour, and not camo/disruptive pattern. The army wear camo to not be seen - this is NOT what you want as a cyclist.
Absolutely Andrew, well said. Cam
WYN Republic!!!! Beth is the best and will help you out with anything you need!! Highly recommend Wyn!!!!
Absolutely mate, your comment a while back made me lean in more here. Appreciate it. Cam
Need to check out the garmin varia. Very handy on back roads and windy days.
Heard lots about this! Thanks Jared
Wow😱That Bike is Awesome 😎 GodBlessed and Have a Ride safe Sir Cam
Cheers Francis. Cam
Hi Cam,
I wear a fluoro yellow jersey & socks with front and back lights working on all rides and your Giant bike would be a great match👍.
Of note I also have some reflective yellow patches on my bike & helmet.
Another great video Mate 👏👏🇦🇺
Fantastic video love the bike bright yellow my favourite colour
the 3T handlerbar actually feels very confortable for me, the big bump fits my hands very well, I guess is just a matter of personal taste. Tho you have a really good point on buying stuff online without not knowing how it really feels
Great safety points cam. It's worth spending some good dollars on front and rear lights. I have bought many lights on line and most have been average. Knog have some great lights and money well spent. Looking forward to your review on the tcr.
Cheers mate, I have wasted a sh*tload on lights also over the years. Now I buy good quality, as I should have always done. Cam
I couldn't seem to find the link to the Exposure light review. I recall watching it a few years ago, but sorta forget the specifics.
Great video as always! What about looking at the Garmin varia radar if the budget extends that far! Great piece of technology
Cheers Mark, yes - I need to look into this. Lots of people talking about it. Cam
Hi vis helmet cam. Works a treat.
Sadly, in Germany you are not allowed to run pulsing lights..
That sounds so German politics. Would love to know the reason behind the ban. I would imagine Germany to be a safe place to cycle anyway.
@@simongeeves9662 The law says, that blinking light could distract other road users, therefore it is forbidden
@@simongeeves9662 In some cities cycling is okay, but the overall infrastructure for cyclists has to really grow.
yeah, front & rear flashing lights are mandatory for me. Used them for a few years now. Just want to give yourself the best chance of being seen.
Hey Cam, great video. Just wondering what Ritchie bars did you get? Wondering as I’m looking for a new set of bars for my TCR SL. Thanks.
Aside from lights, I've got cameras back and front. Not being one to hesitate on overkill, I've also got rear radar. Trouble is all the kit makes a mockery of a ultra light bike!
Great video mate. I have the tcr pro disc 0. Wondering how much better the Enves are than the slr1 as I am looking at the same upgrade
Another great video Cam! I always ride with light here in India be it day or night, the roads are crazy so every little helps. I’ll check out the lights you recommended as the irregular flashing pattern sounds like a great idea. Do you find using them at night is distracting for you as you ride though?
Been running daytime lights for a couple of years (as way too many cars and even pedestrians were pulling/stepping out in front of me)now along with a pink POC jersey which seems to do the trick here in the UK apparently fluro doesn't work. Love the bar tape BTW, what brand is it?
stunning bike cam
CHeers Ti.
@@CamNicholls ❤️
Excellent video, yet again. Had the Merida bike been won yet.
Cheers Simon, the draw will be next week. Cam
Cam Nicholls thanks Cam, much appreciated
Really nice set up! Aero handlebars are nicer though, very subjective as well
Nice upgrade cam. Cheers. Cant wait about the Merida. I can feel it😍 hehe just kidding. My friend have and you have the same helmet😁
Its funny .. I have the 3T Aeronova bars on my bike and find them extremely comfortable. I suppose its like saddles .. personal choice. Was your one the carbon version?
Bontrager Flare R lights are incredible. Can be seen from 2km away
How did you find "the right one" for the saddle? Being a noob substantially-proportioned cyclist; the saddle has been the major challenge for me. I managed to "survive" an 80 km charity ride but it wasn't pretty and I'm just sticking to the indoor smart trainer an hour or so at a time for now because of my saddle issues...
Cam I can HIGHLY recommend the Varia radar from Garmin, watch GPLama and DC Rainmaker videos reviewing them... it is wonderful to have "eyes" in the back of your head and knowing how many cars are behind you and how far they are away. Thx for the heads-up on the helmet GPS tech too!
Will do Horace, appreciate the heads up 👍
Ritchie make some great bars, venture max on my gravelbike are 👌
I actually don't mind a Hi Vis bike or clothing, my current bike has yellow and white striping over black sand it's almost invisible. A mate has a bright orange Focus Paralane, and you can't miss it!!
Similarly yellow and orange shoes create awesome "distraction" to attract attention to the presence of a cyclist I reckon
Hi Cam, hard to seen on the scree, but are you using a compact crank?
No mate, no compact for me. I like crits too much
Always worried about Seat replacement, being old and brought up with the Iconic Turbo which I still have on a couple of my bikes. On my Carbon I have the SI Flite. Getting a bit worn and tired. Do I stick with Selle Italia or change as the product choices are endless. Question is does a particular manufacturer suit certain backsides. Could influence my upgrade in the future. Keep up the informative stuff you do,
Cheers mate, it's a really tricky one with the saddle. You just need to try a lot and when you find a good one, never change. Cam
just use headlights day and night and you will be visible from 200 meters.
Use two rear lights. Because the battery may die and you won't see it.
I'd pay 2 million for a light if it saves me from a car hit.
@@irvhh143 exactly i use one on the bike and one on the back of my helmet.
@@irvhh143 Hi, I keep one extra light in my saddle bag. It is pretty common to run out the battery.
Maybe we should all ride with 3 foot board on our back 'Cyclist ahead f***king pay attention !'
2 c and raining in Vancouver....bleagh
Full review of a Giant TCR with different handle bars, cranks, saddle and wheels..... Wonder how it will compare to a Chapter 2? Love the content. 🚴
I am ultimately reviewing the frame, the bits and pieces should always be personal. Hard to compare as one is aero and the other all round. I like both though. Cheers Byron. Cam
Is it more cheaper if you build the bike with the parts you want rather than upgrades?
Can depend
Well, if u break ur elbow like I did, better to use elbow/knee guard as well. Thats a safety upgrade I did immediately
What were your thoughts on Modex?
Can a seat contribute to pins and needles in your hands?
Thanks for the videos
100%, it will potentially be the primary culprit. It's cutting off circulation in your body. Get your sit bone width measured at a bike store and they can get you on a better seat.
I love the 3T aeronova bars.
Thanks for sharing Andrew. Cam
Cam, one of the major environmental factors you called out in your crash was sun glare on the driver’s vision placing you almost invisible in shadow. Is there anything you think can help with this other than awareness when riding and spotting theses hazards ahead and being careful to ensure if the driver doesn’t see you you still have thought ahead and are ready to avoid any collision? Do you think your safety upgrades will help here?
Good memory mate and thanks for bringing this up. Hard to say definitively. I didn't have a front light with a pulse pattern and I was wearing a dark kit riding through shade, so I would hope these items combined would help. Cheers, Cam
Hey stranger. I searched Giant TCR upgrades for my bike and came across this video. Small world!
hahah, I am all over UA-cam these days mate. Type in 'Riding a Giant TCR with no Saddle', that was my best video. Hope all is well.
@@CamNicholls I’m doing well, back in to cycling after 8 years off. All gear no idea 🤣. Clearly your doing well in sunny Noosa. I’ll check it out.
I love that bar tape! But I’ve also been very happy with that handlebar you rejected. I spend about 80% of my ride time with the bulges at the base of my thumbs (thenar eminences) resting along the curved area.
Didn't recognize you for a moment with the stash. It suits you
haha, Cheers mate. Cam
thanks for the tip on the helmet... i'll be adding that to my collection soon. i ride with a giro, it looks pretty good, but can't touch that ANGI system. never had any specialized gear, and in my california years i often felt like the only rider without any. i'll also be adding those exposure lights, which are priced the same as the ones i use now, but seem to offer a bit more. as for the supacaz tape... i have that on my trek at the moment, and i have some thoughts....
i bought it bc it looked cool, and sagan was pushing it, so i figured it must be some of the best out there. it started off feeling pretty ok, although if i'm being real, i was a bit disappointed at how mild the tack was. i mean, it's called "super sticky kush"!!! (any recommendations on super tacky tape? i'm still on the hunt...) but then once the supacaz weathered just a bit, after a handful of summertime rides, it became permanently slick. it's still on my bike, and i hate it, but i haven't made time to swap it out yet. i have a stockpile of different tapes around my place, i just need to decide it's time to finally rid myself of the kush. maybe i'm still remembering how expensive it was, and am hoping to milk a few more miles out of it before i move on to something better. who knows? nothing makes sense anymore.
keep on keepin on, man.
Thanks for sharing mate and no, I haven't found the super tacky tape yet! Keep me posted. Cheers, Cam
@@CamNicholls i've seen some pros using a prologo tape that looks amazing, but i haven't had any real life run ins with it yet. probably time to make some bike shop friends...
You don’t mention that all helmets are not created equal. Virginia Tech in the US are now doing comprehensive testing of all popular helmets. There is a surprisingly big difference between them. Common sense to use this info when choosing a new helmet.
What is the bar tape? I ordered a similar style today. Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Galaxy Bar Tape.?
Yep, my order says Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Galaxy Bar Tape
I always prefer bright coloured socks... Reason being is the up down movement during cycling catches the drivers attention . Well that's my unresearched view
Do you use the TCR just for racing, or also for longer rides (80-100 + km)?
Yep, both! It's a great all rounder. Cam
I agree. I have one and it is as good for 100+ rides/races as for shorter races.
New jersey looks good Cam but I don't know how it will go with your red BMC. I threw all my orange jerseys out when I bought my red bikes! Can't ride with clashing colours! 😉 😆 I was also told that white helmets and bright flouro socks were best seen by drivers. See you out on the road. Cheers Peter
haha, I think it can work!Great bike btw, as you would know. Cam
What depth are your wheels?
Personally love the bar tape.
What drop we your bars?
hi, what's your seat height?
What year tcr is this?
i hope you can test a disk equipped tcr in the future
Me too mate, working on it. Cam
I wear bright socks, apparently bipedal movement is interpreted by the brain differently. Idk if it helps but it’s easy to avoid buying black socks.
Great point, I have been hearing this a lot too. Thanks for sharing. Cam
can you fit 28c on that bike?
Good question, I don't believe officially but you should be able to get most in.
The problem with giant is when you can't get a giant representative in a major city like the capital of Portugal. And they only deal through stores. Then you're stuck!
That sounds really frustrating Pedro, sorry to hear. Cam
Eye catching colours make no difference if a driver isn't looking. Never have, never will.
Love my fly6
I guess that Australians experience the same problems with non-rider drivers that we in the US experience based on the modifications you have made to your bike and to your personal protective gear. It’s unfortunate that bike riders need to protect ourselves against drivers instead of making it mandatory that drivers take more care to look out for us. I can only suggest that you use your platform to advocate for more driver consciousness so bicyclists can be safer on the road without spending more money on personal safety equipment.
I always use a flashing rear facing light.
Re the bar tape....Giant Adelaide tried to sell me the same one. It’s a bit ‘flash Harry’ for my tastes Cam 😂
haha, I get that! Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Cam
I’ve never understood why other cyclist insist on wearing black just to look cool. I ride a lot on roads in light colours, fluoro yellow shoes and socks, with flashing lights. For me it’s about being seen by other road users and staying safe, rather than looking too cool.
I have a Giant TCT 2004, Composite 0, large frame, Dura Ace 7800 group set. Please subscribers, I need advice as to what are my carbon wheel options, currently running alloys Mavic Ksyriums 13mm internal width on 23mm Vittoria Rubino tyres. I have never tried 25mm tyres, and have been advised by LBD that 28mm will not fit. It appears to me the modern carbon wheels would be too wide for my brake and frame clearance, My understanding is 23mm tyres will only be accommodated on 13mm and 15mm internal widths, and most of the carbon wheels start from 17mm internals that would be fitted with a 25mm tyre as a minimum. Has anybody had any experience running wider rims greater than external 20mm on this model year 2004 TCR? The bike shown in the video I assume is a later year model TCR, has the geometry been stretched and frame widened.? You mentioned Giant SLR 1 wheels as an option. I am not a racer and looking for a mid range affordable carbon option if one exists...Cheers
Sorry for irrelevant question, but can i ask you a question?
When you adjust saddle tilt, how do you tighten or loose the “front” knob(or screw) if you use non cut-out saddle?
It seems like allen key cant reach in there if you don’t use cut-out saddle.
Do you just use thumb to tighten it?
Did only using thumb give enough leverage/force ?
Is it possible to tight it enough, if you want a nose-down (tilt) saddle position?
I use about 4 degree down. Would that be possible?
Id really appreciate for the reply.
Around how much this you pay for this Beaty? US dollars ?
I made a video about it! ua-cam.com/video/JKZMznUWtNQ/v-deo.html
Interesting comment Cam... “no more pins and needles in my hands since having a comfy seat”. Is it the saddle that can cause this discomfort in the hands🤔 I also like the Spec Toupe Expert saddle on my Roubaix and have the Bontrager on my Cannondale. Bontrager do a great offer, 30 day money back guarantee with all their gear, if you don’t like it within 30 days, exchange of refund. Lucky for me I have a good Local Bike Shop😉 Check out the SeeSense bike likes, really good also. Sorry to go on, great video as always😊👍
I wear similar coloured jerseys but have come to the conclusion that a lot of Kiwi drivers are legally Blind but continue to drive without their guide-dog in the car! #livingdangerouslyinauckland
haha! I hear you Derek.
Here in Germany that flashing lights are actually illegal because the law says that they distract other road users
That sounds frustrating and disappointing for riders! Cam
I wish I have a jersey like that even a helmet because mine are class A only to have a jersey.