Re: [CR]FasTack

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Cinelli)

From: <NortonMarg@aol.com>
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 00:39:23 EDT
Subject: Re: [CR]FasTack
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org


Here is a FasTack application where regular glue won't work. If someone has an alternative, please let me know. To start with, a little physics and thermodynamics of rims. A standard rim with parallel braking flats has a large radiator (the inner section of the rim with the graphics on it) to get rid of heat. The braking flats (heat generators) are a long way from the center of the glue. The net result is you have to use the brakes for a relatively LONG time to soften the glue. An aero rim has virtually no radiator to get rid of heat, and the braking flats are really close to the center of the glue. The net result is, if you live in mountainous terrain, moderate use of the brakes, while descending, will melt your glue to the point that you can lift the tire off the rim and watch the glue pull like taffy. I started using FasTack after coming part way down Ebbet's Pass and fortunately stopping because my bike felt a little weird. After an appropriate cool down period, I continued using the "Merckx" water bottle technique to keep the rims cool. What I have noticed using FasTack and other glues, is that the base tape starts to curl at the edge. I don't recall it being any more frequent with the FasTack, but I will certainly pay close attention to that from now on. I had written it off as crappy base tape glue from the tire company, and usually just reaffix the tape using latex. It seems to work ok but I have a nagging feeling that there must be something better. I recently heard of "base tape glue" but haven't seen any. Anyone used it? Have a source? A trick with Clement glue (the only other glue I'll use) is that if you have the right base of glue on the rim, and you put on a spare (even one with no glue), and then ride your brakes for awhile to heat the rim, the glue grabs the tire. However, you will melt it if you have aero rims and ride in the mountains. I think that explains one of the reasons Teams used wider, heavier rims for stage racing. At least for the road stages. To finish first, you must first
finish.
Stevan Thomas
Alameda, CA