New bike day 😉

[steveindenmark]

I decided to get a new bike for the Pan Celtic Race this year. Something that will take wider tyres than I am used to and with gears that can get over hills.

I went for the Specialized Diverge E5 comp 2024 .

It has a 1 x 30t chainring and an 11- 50 SRAM Eagle casette. I have never had SRAM before. That was a suprise 🙂 I am sure I will figure them out today.

It has Specialized Future Shock in the handlebar. I have this on another Specialized bike and really like it. I also have a Redshift seatpost, which is an excellent piece of kit.

35c tyres are fitted (I believe). But it will take 47c.

Im looking forward to putting a few miles on it.

 

[ianrauk]

What's your baggage options for the race?

 

[avsd]

Very nice. Enjoy.

 

[steveindenmark]

What's your baggage options for the race?

I am not sure yet. I am 66 and not a racer. I have not been back to the UK for over 10 years. So for me it will be a ride through the countryside and a few pub meals.

The baggage could be my Tailfin rear bag and a couple of small panniers.

 

[biggs682]

Enjoy your new bike

 

[Emanresu]

Is that the size of pannier you need for all the midge repellant you'll use on the route?

 

[steveindenmark]

Is that the size of pannier you need for all the midge repellant you'll use on the route?

I need to fit in a full body mosquito net.😉 Most of my mileage is ridden in the dark so I may get a couple of hours respite from the beasties.

That pannier looks far bigger than it actually is. I hope. 🙂

 

[Ming the Merciless]

Is the plan bed and breakfast or camping or bivvy?

 

[SpokeyDokey]

Crikey! That's a really nice looking and thoroughly modern bike! I like it a lot.

Although, my brain is still trying to get used to the sight of those enormous cassettes!

Wishing you many safe and happy miles on the beast.

 

[steveindenmark]

Is the plan bed and breakfast or camping or bivvy?

It could be bivvying with a hammock or an Ultra light air bed. Certainly bivvying though. Im sure a bnb or two will be thrown in. Maybe even a tent. The weather will be the deciding factor.

 

[steveindenmark]

20km spin. It goes well and SRAM was easy to sort out..

 

[All uphill]

I am not sure yet. I am 66 and not a racer. I have not been back to the UK for over 10 years. So for me it will be a ride through the countryside and a few pub meals.

The baggage could be my Tailfin rear bag and a couple of small panniers.

View attachment 729253

Sounds great.

Your take on the UK after ten years will be interesting.