Wow, Coach Jeff’s weekly Wednesday ride had quite the kickoff. As part of the training I decided to get a flat rear tire. Seemed a routine flat at first until my Campagnolo derailleur decided to make a 360 degree spin and tangle the chain. For some reason, the coach was completely overmatched on this day in getting the problem straightened away. The tire repair itself took only a minute or two, but the ‘Chain Tangling 101’ clinic went on unabated for around 20 minutes. Everyone chimed in to help the befuddled coach, but the chain was getting the best of the whole group.
We should have great photos courtesy of Tammy for the website where a lively photo commentary should ensue. Thanks to everyone for their patience and a special shout-out to Michael for finally getting the proper final twist on the problem; whereby, we finally nailed down the solution.
Just to add to the hilarity of the whole situation. In my haste to get back on the road with my cohorts who were already up the Kilkare climb, I slapped the wheel back in the dropouts without the slightest review and hit the road again as my patient charges headed back to our start point in the other direction.
On the way up Kilkare, the pedaling seemed a bit more challenging than usual… It seems I was climbing with the back brake pressing against the rim. Sometimes it just isn’t your day (but the climb was a bit more of a workout).
I guess the next order of business will be to orchestrate a ‘Chain Untangling’ clinic. Of course, I suppose this will take place after a trip to bike shop to figure out what is going on with my crazy derailleur.
Moral of the story, we should always keep pushing forward – Go Team!!!!
