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Fully accepted my nerdity at an early age, flaunt it in my daily life, so much so it threatens those of non-nerdy nature.
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Recent Activity: This page outlines the stuff you've done at Giantnerd® most recently. To see older posts, just scroll down the page. You can even select a category tab below to find more specific posts!
Jul 09
tire size Comes with a pair of Kenda K-152 700x23c tires from what I found.
Posted 07.09.10
Looking for a lock like kryptonite? A friend of mine uses a combo of a new U-bar style lock and a hefty chain/cable lock (like the Akita) to deter would be thieves a little more.
Posted 07.09.10
Gears Never mind, it is a 9-speed SRAM cassette for the X-7 series. So 9x3 = 27 total gears.
Posted 07.09.10
Jul 07
Custom Made Shirts You may look into what inks you are using for the printing process. I have done some screen printing as a hobby and I know when I attempted to print on a poly shirt the ink was too stiff (used the ink I often use with cotton shirts with no problem from ****Blick supplies) and quickly began to separate and flake after a few washings.
Posted 07.07.10
GiantNerd Sticker/Decal Don't worry, there will definitely be one in the package for you to use. I still have yet to get a pink one myself, guess I just have to keep ordering stuff :)
Posted 07.07.10
Anybody own this bike? Here's a summary of the component used:
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/30316/Shimano-reveal-line-up-that-caters-for-limited-budgets
Posted 07.07.10
Jun 23
Gears Jeff, I hate to contradict you but I believe all the BAMFs at this time come with 24 gears (8 cluster in back and 3 on the crank).
I concur that the weight is low, especially for what you are paying. Not to mention they look great :)
Posted 06.23.10
PIcked these up Oops, wrong section, my bad.
Posted 06.23.10
Jun 16
Boke Box Gotcha, thanks for the clarification Jeff, can't wait to get my BAMF tomorrow and bring it over to my friends shop for assembly.
Posted 06.16.10
Cleats? It was a learning opportunity for me, I was only familiar with road clipless cleats which use a three bolt setup (and I have to say are quite a bit more complicated to attach).
Posted 06.16.10
Jun 15
Cleats? Found out from another site that the cleats work with the standard two bolt system found in most riding shoes.
Posted 06.15.10
Cleats? Of course I meant Shimano in the last sentence (I wish you could edit).
Posted 06.15.10
Jun 13
Pro Build Just ordered! I plan to bring this to my friend's shop for assembly and hope to do****ent the process. I will try to upload photos of the experience (both assembly and first ride :)
Posted 06.13.10
This one over other 29ers? I have answered my own questions. A few spec bumps on the Grappler and a slightly shorter reach. For me this is enough to feel that I can now buy the one I actually wanted but my rational mind could not buy in to. Soon to be a BAMF.
Posted 06.13.10
Jun 12
Roadbike fit Really varies based on make/model. Check this site to see if your bike is listed: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/seatpost-sizes.html
Common sizes are 27.1mm and 31.8
If you can't find your bikes specs drop by a local shop, they should have a tool to measure seatpost/headset size.
Posted 06.12.10
Jun 11
Pro Build Personally I find that receiving a bike direct from the factory and assembling it oneself is a great way to get in touch with all that your new ride is (kind of a Zen and the Art of 'Bicycle' maintenance thing for me). Find someone to supervise the first time, or ask a local mechanic if you can watch his/her work. Not only do you feel more connected but you are more likely to be able to diagnose and fix anything that goes wrong down the trail/road.
If tools are the issue some shops will allow you to use theirs, perhaps will a small fee, as long as you have some experience.
Posted 06.11.10
Jul 09
Back in stock? Any chance these will coming back in stock at any point?
Posted 07.09.10
Jun 23
PIcked these up These arrived over the weekend and I am very pleased thus far. The clipless is easy to snap into and out of and worked well on the trail, while the flatbed has come in handy on a few quick trips down the road.
Posted 06.23.10
Jun 15
Cleats? Does this pedal come with cleats that could attach to any cleat accepting riding shoe? I have an pair of specialized riding shoes I picked up in the past but have no idea what the SPD integrate shoe and pedal system is all about.
In other words are the cleats and pedals proprietary for use with only specialized shoes?
Posted 06.15.10
Jun 11
This one over other 29ers? Sell me on the advantage of the Grappler over the Overdrive (outside of aesthetics). They appear very similar frame and component wise.
http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/ProductDisplay?storeId=10053&langId=-1&catalogId=10052&productId=508039&cm_mmc=$(referrer)$-_-Bicycles-_-Diamondback-_-DB-ODSE&CSE=GooglePS&mr:trackingCode=E40C9849-FB2E-DF11-BAA3-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA
Posted 06.11.10
Boke Box Do these ship with the bike box regardless of whether you have it pro-built or not?
Posted 06.11.10
Sep 15
Review title...
Picked up a slightly used pair of these mid-season and I couldn't be happier with them. Just the right amount of stiffness, good cleats for tromping through the mud if necessary. Breathable and work well with my sweaty feet :p
Only concern is that they get pretty soggy in the rain (although I have yet to find a decent priced shoe that solves this); however they dry quickly.
Make sure to try a pair on (or similar shoe from the same make) and then come back here to get the best deal!
Posted 09.15.10
Sep 02
Time for a break
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Take note that this is for the wider style Therm-a-rest pads (not the standard)
Posted 09.02.10
take a load off after a long day
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Take note that this is for the wider style Therm-a-rest pads (not the standard)
Posted 09.02.10
If you need to relax
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Posted 09.02.10
My wife loves it...
Picks this up for my spouse for her birthday a couple years back and she loves it! The 600 down packs down small, is lightweight, and provides ample warmth in almost all conditions (she tends to run cold so that's a plus).
Posted 09.02.10
Aug 26
The classic, but updated.
Truly the quintessential classic from Therm-a-rest. It may not back as light as the trail series or be as thick as the luxury series but it does it's job well. I prefer this series over the trail in order to avoid shifting from side to side at night due to hip discomfort (if you are a side sleeper you should think about this). The solid foam core in this line also adds less risk of breakdown overtime (versus the die cut or tubular cut sections in other lines).
Overall a great choice for all around use and comfort.
Posted 08.26.10
Great tape
I have been using Cinelli tape on my road bars for years. I prefer the corked (this one) over other options just because I don't always feel like riding with gloves and they provide sufficient cushion.
Make sure you are careful in putting on the tape, if you do it incorrectly it will wear faster than usual and risk shifting. Go for color, a great way to make an older ride seem new again!
Posted 08.26.10
Jul 20
Decent specs and ride
If you are in the market for a XC ride or stiff tail you may want to look at this one or the Full Nelson from BAMF. Both have respectable specs but vary in dimensions/style of ride.
Posted 07.20.10
Jun 29
Review title...
Took her through a flooded trail, over many a felled tree, through sand and mud galore, and she took it all in stride. Definitely rides through things much easier than my old 26 standard, I was amazed at the handling in sand and mud. Rolled up a bluff climb with the greatest of ease (didn't even need to hit the grannys). I could not be happier with this bike in terms of overall performance (and aesthetic appeal).
Posted 06.29.10
Jun 23
If you don't have a compression sack for your sleeping bag, get one!
The new range of compression sacks are even lighter weight yet still durable and can make a huge difference in how you pack. Make sure to buy a compression sack that has a similar size stuff sack compartment as your original sleeping bag stuff sack to ensure that it fits and that you take maximum advantage of the compression.
Posted 06.23.10
Great general use pad.
If you are looking for a mattress that works great for both car camping and the backcountry this may be one to look at. The Trail Lite falls in the middle of the product line in trading comfort for lightweight packability. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
.5" thicker than the Travel Lite, yet the same weight.
This is the top of the line pad in the Trek and Travel series from Therm-a-rest. It is lightweight yet provides 2" of loft (vs. 1.5" with the Trail Lite) and packs down well. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Thicker while still the same weight as the Trail Lite
This is the top of the line pad in the Trek and Travel series from Therm-a-rest. It is lightweight yet provides 2" of loft (vs. 1.5" with the Trail Lite) and packs down well. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Great all around self-inflating mattress
If you are looking for a mattress that works great for both car camping and the backcountry this may be one to look at. The Trail Lite falls in the middle of the product line in trading comfort for lightweight packability. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Great high altitude or cold weather bag.
This was once of the best selling bags for cold weather in the sleeping bag department. The 600 down insures that this bag will continue to provide adequate insulation in most situations for years to come and TNF baffle design ensures even distribution of the insulation for your body. The lightweight nylon shell cuts down on weight and bulk and the down compresses well.
Make sure to protect your investments and adhere to the care directions, as well as always store your bag in the cotton storage bag and not the stuff/compression sack!
Posted 06.23.10
Great first mummy bag
This is a great intro bag for someone looking to get into camping/backpacking but doesn't want to invest a lot at this time. The synthetic insulation is great if you plan to do some paddling/wet adventures as synthetic insulation will retain more heat when wet than down.
Improvements gained from a more expensive bag: Will pack down smaller and weigh less. Also the insulation in most cases will last longer (maintain at the advertised temperature rating for much longer).
Posted 06.23.10
Picked these up
These arrived over the weekend and I am very pleased thus far. The clipless is easy to snap into and out of and worked well on the trail, while the flatbed has come in handy on a few quick trips down the road.
Posted 06.23.10
Jun 17
If I got the hoodie...
these would be the next thing in line to finish off my new look, hipster or bad a** I do not klnow, but Chrome stuff is pretty killer.
Posted 06.17.10
Oops, forgot
I wish I had bought this with my trainer. I have used all sorts of different items to prop up my front tire to decrease strain while on the trailer but nothing does a great job overall, not to mention some things have actually caused additional problems.
Do yourself a favor and pick one up, i know I plan on it.
Posted 06.17.10
Top of the class
My overall experience with Blackburn has been positive, I have used the same old black blackburn pump on my mountain bikes for over ten years and it continues to function well.
This pump takes it to the next level with all sorts of technology to decrease the time to get you tire filled and get you back on the trail.
Posted 06.17.10
Jun 17
Jun 12
Jun 11
Joined Bikes
Joined 06.11.10
Joined Tents
Joined 06.11.10
Jun 17
Trevor Johnson
Just crossed 5000 social rank points! Yee-haw! (now I wonder how do these differ from Nerd Rank Points)
Posted 06.17.10
Jun 15
Trevor Johnson
Thinks there should be a way to get nerd cred from referring people to the site!
Posted 06.15.10
Jun 12
Trevor Johnson
The recognition has spurred another bought of reviews!
Posted 06.12.10
Jun 11
Trevor Johnson
Flexing the REI experience to add some ratings and insider info!
Posted 06.11.10
Trevor Johnson
Checking out some killer mtn bikes from BAMF
Posted 06.11.10
Sep 15
Review title...
Picked up a slightly used pair of these mid-season and I couldn't be happier with them. Just the right amount of stiffness, good cleats for tromping through the mud if necessary. Breathable and work well with my sweaty feet :p
Only concern is that they get pretty soggy in the rain (although I have yet to find a decent priced shoe that solves this); however they dry quickly.
Make sure to try a pair on (or similar shoe from the same make) and then come back here to get the best deal!
Posted 09.15.10
Sep 02
Time for a break
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Take note that this is for the wider style Therm-a-rest pads (not the standard)
Posted 09.02.10
take a load off after a long day
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Take note that this is for the wider style Therm-a-rest pads (not the standard)
Posted 09.02.10
If you need to relax
There is nothing quite like finding a great back support for sitting after a long day of hiking. With this therm-a-rest cover you can bring your own along (rather than trying to find the perfect stump/tree/rock). The benefit of this cover is that it can stay on your pad and has buckles that function for both rolling up your pad and for converting it into a chair.
Posted 09.02.10
My wife loves it...
Picks this up for my spouse for her birthday a couple years back and she loves it! The 600 down packs down small, is lightweight, and provides ample warmth in almost all conditions (she tends to run cold so that's a plus).
Posted 09.02.10
Aug 26
The classic, but updated.
Truly the quintessential classic from Therm-a-rest. It may not back as light as the trail series or be as thick as the luxury series but it does it's job well. I prefer this series over the trail in order to avoid shifting from side to side at night due to hip discomfort (if you are a side sleeper you should think about this). The solid foam core in this line also adds less risk of breakdown overtime (versus the die cut or tubular cut sections in other lines).
Overall a great choice for all around use and comfort.
Posted 08.26.10
Great tape
I have been using Cinelli tape on my road bars for years. I prefer the corked (this one) over other options just because I don't always feel like riding with gloves and they provide sufficient cushion.
Make sure you are careful in putting on the tape, if you do it incorrectly it will wear faster than usual and risk shifting. Go for color, a great way to make an older ride seem new again!
Posted 08.26.10
Jul 20
Decent specs and ride
If you are in the market for a XC ride or stiff tail you may want to look at this one or the Full Nelson from BAMF. Both have respectable specs but vary in dimensions/style of ride.
Posted 07.20.10
Jul 09
Back in stock? Any chance these will coming back in stock at any point?
Posted 07.09.10
tire size Comes with a pair of Kenda K-152 700x23c tires from what I found.
Posted 07.09.10
Looking for a lock like kryptonite? A friend of mine uses a combo of a new U-bar style lock and a hefty chain/cable lock (like the Akita) to deter would be thieves a little more.
Posted 07.09.10
Gears Never mind, it is a 9-speed SRAM cassette for the X-7 series. So 9x3 = 27 total gears.
Posted 07.09.10
Jul 07
Custom Made Shirts You may look into what inks you are using for the printing process. I have done some screen printing as a hobby and I know when I attempted to print on a poly shirt the ink was too stiff (used the ink I often use with cotton shirts with no problem from ****Blick supplies) and quickly began to separate and flake after a few washings.
Posted 07.07.10
GiantNerd Sticker/Decal Don't worry, there will definitely be one in the package for you to use. I still have yet to get a pink one myself, guess I just have to keep ordering stuff :)
Posted 07.07.10
Anybody own this bike? Here's a summary of the component used:
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/30316/Shimano-reveal-line-up-that-caters-for-limited-budgets
Posted 07.07.10
Jun 29
Review title...
Took her through a flooded trail, over many a felled tree, through sand and mud galore, and she took it all in stride. Definitely rides through things much easier than my old 26 standard, I was amazed at the handling in sand and mud. Rolled up a bluff climb with the greatest of ease (didn't even need to hit the grannys). I could not be happier with this bike in terms of overall performance (and aesthetic appeal).
Posted 06.29.10
Jun 23
Gears Jeff, I hate to contradict you but I believe all the BAMFs at this time come with 24 gears (8 cluster in back and 3 on the crank).
I concur that the weight is low, especially for what you are paying. Not to mention they look great :)
Posted 06.23.10
If you don't have a compression sack for your sleeping bag, get one!
The new range of compression sacks are even lighter weight yet still durable and can make a huge difference in how you pack. Make sure to buy a compression sack that has a similar size stuff sack compartment as your original sleeping bag stuff sack to ensure that it fits and that you take maximum advantage of the compression.
Posted 06.23.10
Great general use pad.
If you are looking for a mattress that works great for both car camping and the backcountry this may be one to look at. The Trail Lite falls in the middle of the product line in trading comfort for lightweight packability. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
.5" thicker than the Travel Lite, yet the same weight.
This is the top of the line pad in the Trek and Travel series from Therm-a-rest. It is lightweight yet provides 2" of loft (vs. 1.5" with the Trail Lite) and packs down well. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Thicker while still the same weight as the Trail Lite
This is the top of the line pad in the Trek and Travel series from Therm-a-rest. It is lightweight yet provides 2" of loft (vs. 1.5" with the Trail Lite) and packs down well. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Great all around self-inflating mattress
If you are looking for a mattress that works great for both car camping and the backcountry this may be one to look at. The Trail Lite falls in the middle of the product line in trading comfort for lightweight packability. The Therm-a-rest name has been proven for years and their products can last a long time if taken care of.
Posted 06.23.10
Great high altitude or cold weather bag.
This was once of the best selling bags for cold weather in the sleeping bag department. The 600 down insures that this bag will continue to provide adequate insulation in most situations for years to come and TNF baffle design ensures even distribution of the insulation for your body. The lightweight nylon shell cuts down on weight and bulk and the down compresses well.
Make sure to protect your investments and adhere to the care directions, as well as always store your bag in the cotton storage bag and not the stuff/compression sack!
Posted 06.23.10
Great first mummy bag
This is a great intro bag for someone looking to get into camping/backpacking but doesn't want to invest a lot at this time. The synthetic insulation is great if you plan to do some paddling/wet adventures as synthetic insulation will retain more heat when wet than down.
Improvements gained from a more expensive bag: Will pack down smaller and weigh less. Also the insulation in most cases will last longer (maintain at the advertised temperature rating for much longer).
Posted 06.23.10
Picked these up
These arrived over the weekend and I am very pleased thus far. The clipless is easy to snap into and out of and worked well on the trail, while the flatbed has come in handy on a few quick trips down the road.
Posted 06.23.10
PIcked these up Oops, wrong section, my bad.
Posted 06.23.10
PIcked these up These arrived over the weekend and I am very pleased thus far. The clipless is easy to snap into and out of and worked well on the trail, while the flatbed has come in handy on a few quick trips down the road.
Posted 06.23.10
Jun 17
Trevor Johnson
Just crossed 5000 social rank points! Yee-haw! (now I wonder how do these differ from Nerd Rank Points)
Posted 06.17.10
If I got the hoodie...
these would be the next thing in line to finish off my new look, hipster or bad a** I do not klnow, but Chrome stuff is pretty killer.
Posted 06.17.10
Oops, forgot
I wish I had bought this with my trainer. I have used all sorts of different items to prop up my front tire to decrease strain while on the trailer but nothing does a great job overall, not to mention some things have actually caused additional problems.
Do yourself a favor and pick one up, i know I plan on it.
Posted 06.17.10
Top of the class
My overall experience with Blackburn has been positive, I have used the same old black blackburn pump on my mountain bikes for over ten years and it continues to function well.
This pump takes it to the next level with all sorts of technology to decrease the time to get you tire filled and get you back on the trail.
Posted 06.17.10
Jun 16
Boke Box Gotcha, thanks for the clarification Jeff, can't wait to get my BAMF tomorrow and bring it over to my friends shop for assembly.
Posted 06.16.10
Cleats? It was a learning opportunity for me, I was only familiar with road clipless cleats which use a three bolt setup (and I have to say are quite a bit more complicated to attach).
Posted 06.16.10
Jun 15
Trevor Johnson
Thinks there should be a way to get nerd cred from referring people to the site!
Posted 06.15.10
Cleats? Found out from another site that the cleats work with the standard two bolt system found in most riding shoes.
Posted 06.15.10
Cleats? Of course I meant Shimano in the last sentence (I wish you could edit).
Posted 06.15.10
Cleats? Does this pedal come with cleats that could attach to any cleat accepting riding shoe? I have an pair of specialized riding shoes I picked up in the past but have no idea what the SPD integrate shoe and pedal system is all about.
In other words are the cleats and pedals proprietary for use with only specialized shoes?
Posted 06.15.10
Jun 13
Pro Build Just ordered! I plan to bring this to my friend's shop for assembly and hope to do****ent the process. I will try to upload photos of the experience (both assembly and first ride :)
Posted 06.13.10
This one over other 29ers? I have answered my own questions. A few spec bumps on the Grappler and a slightly shorter reach. For me this is enough to feel that I can now buy the one I actually wanted but my rational mind could not buy in to. Soon to be a BAMF.
Posted 06.13.10
Jun 12
Trevor Johnson
The recognition has spurred another bought of reviews!
Posted 06.12.10
Double or Triple?
Depends on a few things. Are you touring or racing? Racing you may never use those granny gears and the double will do. Touring (especially with extra gear) those extra gears may be a godsend if you are riding in the bluffs or mountains.
I have yet to ride a compact double but am reluctant because I often find the lower ring on the standard to be just right for the push on some larger climbs and think I would be spinning too much with a smaller lower ring.
I have ridden in several century rides with a standard double and never looked back. Think about what riding style you have (aggressive or laid back) and factor that in as well.
Added 06.12.10
Roadbike fit Really varies based on make/model. Check this site to see if your bike is listed: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/seatpost-sizes.html
Common sizes are 27.1mm and 31.8
If you can't find your bikes specs drop by a local shop, they should have a tool to measure seatpost/headset size.
Posted 06.12.10
Jun 11
This one over other 29ers? Sell me on the advantage of the Grappler over the Overdrive (outside of aesthetics). They appear very similar frame and component wise.
http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/ProductDisplay?storeId=10053&langId=-1&catalogId=10052&productId=508039&cm_mmc=$(referrer)$-_-Bicycles-_-Diamondback-_-DB-ODSE&CSE=GooglePS&mr:trackingCode=E40C9849-FB2E-DF11-BAA3-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA
Posted 06.11.10
Trevor Johnson
Flexing the REI experience to add some ratings and insider info!
Posted 06.11.10
What are you riding?
Haro Extreme, raised chainstay and 90's flourescent yellow. (classic Deore XT components)
Specialized M2 road (ultegra componentry)
About time to upgrade, looking at a BAMF - would like the Full Nelson but may resort to the half due to costs.
Added 06.11.10
Boke Box Do these ship with the bike box regardless of whether you have it pro-built or not?
Posted 06.11.10
Joined Bikes
Joined 06.11.10
Joined Tents
Joined 06.11.10
Pro Build Personally I find that receiving a bike direct from the factory and assembling it oneself is a great way to get in touch with all that your new ride is (kind of a Zen and the Art of 'Bicycle' maintenance thing for me). Find someone to supervise the first time, or ask a local mechanic if you can watch his/her work. Not only do you feel more connected but you are more likely to be able to diagnose and fix anything that goes wrong down the trail/road.
If tools are the issue some shops will allow you to use theirs, perhaps will a small fee, as long as you have some experience.
Posted 06.11.10
Trevor Johnson
Checking out some killer mtn bikes from BAMF
Posted 06.11.10
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