{"id":38246,"date":"2022-06-24T14:00:14","date_gmt":"2022-06-24T12:00:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=684810"},"modified":"2022-06-24T14:16:17","modified_gmt":"2022-06-24T12:16:17","slug":"tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered\/","title":{"rendered":"Tech Q&A | Tubeless sealant, handlebar dimensions, bikepacking protection and more of your questions answered"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>

By Jack Evans\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Friday, 24 June 2022 at 12:00 am<\/p>

\n\n

It\u2019s time for the latest instalment in our Tech Q&A podcast series and, for this episode, BikeRadar\u2019s deputy editor, Jack Luke, and technical editor-in-chief, Rob Weaver, are on hand to answer your questions.<\/p>\n

With technical editor Alex Evans as your host, Jack discusses carbon frame protection for bikepacking<\/a> and weighs up a decision between the Merida Scultura<\/a> and Scultura Endurance<\/a> road bikes.<\/p>\n

Rob, meanwhile, shines a light on how to clean up stuck-on tubeless sealant<\/a> and how best to carry ride essentials, whether in a cycling backpack<\/a> or elsewhere on the bike. Finally, we discuss mountain bike handlebar dimensions and buckled wheels.<\/p>\n

Listen to the full episode below \u2013 or read on for a summary of Jack, Rob and Alex\u2019s answers.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s the best way to clean<\/strong><strong>\u00a0dried tubeless sealant from inside wheels, tyres and off a frame?<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-667629\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/Tubeless-tyre-sealant-spill-0515a37.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Spilled sealant makes a mess of the floor and your frame.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Alex Evans \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Rob: \u201cFor the inside of the tyre, just use hot soapy water and a scouring sponge. Rub away at those little bits and they should come off after a while.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPut something on the floor or ground so you can clear it up afterwards.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYou can also use stiff washing-up brushes to get it out.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf that fails, pour brake cleaner into the tyre, give it a light coating and then leave it a few minutes and wipe it out with a scouring sponge.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI would then give it a hose down and clean.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWith the frame, I would always start with hot, soapy water. If that\u2019s not working with the more stubborn stuff, you can use isopropyl alcohol, which shouldn\u2019t have any effect on the frame material.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGently rub it on with an old cloth and that generally gets rid of it.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMake sure you also take the valve out and give it a clean, so it\u2019s fully functioning. If that doesn\u2019t work, it doesn\u2019t matter what the sealant does when you\u2019ve topped it back up.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Between the Merida Scultura and the Merida Scultura Endurance, which one would you pick?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-677523\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/05\/Merida-Scultura-Team-09-d92f232.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> The Scultura has a sporty, thrilling ride.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Russell Burton \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Jack: \u201cHave a careful think about the type of riding you\u2019ll be doing. The Merida Scultura is a very racy bike and was highly reviewed by Simon von Bromley.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe noted that its handling is particularly nippy, it\u2019s a proper race bike.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe Scultura Endurance is more endurance-focused with more relaxed geometry, so a little taller with large clearances.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt is also a very nice bike, one that has reviewed well on our site.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe Endurance is the more versatile of the two. If you\u2019re thinking of the odd gravel dalliance or longer-distance ride, that might be a better bike for you.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut if you are more interested in performance and smashing yourself up climbs, I\u2019d be going for the racier bike. But I\u2019d base that on your riding.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019d pick the Scultura because I prefer a more sporty <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-road-bikes\/"\">road bike<\/a>, and if I wanted something more versatile I would buy a <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-gravel-bikes\/"\">gravel bike.<\/a>\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>What do mountain bike handlebar dimensions mean and should I care about them?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=299%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=404%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=407%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-649489\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/10\/MTB-handlebar-2-b626cba.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Thoroughly experiment with different widths before trimming your bars.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Rob: \u201cI think yes, personally. There are certain things, like width, you will always want to tailor to your own preferences.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMost modern mountain bike bars will be 800mm, but that is wide.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWidth dictates how far your hands will be set apart. It is a personal thing.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWider bars offer more leverage, which is generally a good thing in terms of control (narrower bars can feel twitchy).<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut it\u2019s important to find the right width for you.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cToo wide and you\u2019ll be pulled too far forward on the bike, which may compromise your ride position.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBuy a set of wide bars and move your grips and controls inwards until you find the width you\u2019re happy with.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThen you can cut off the overhanging bit of the bar.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe press-up test is a quick and easy way to get an idea of bar width. Measure how far apart your hands are when you do a press-up on the floor. You\u2019ll get an idea of the width where you feel strong.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cRise is really critical. It\u2019s how tall the bar is.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMost mountain bike bars have some rise from 10 to 40mm. You don\u2019t see much more than that.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cToo high and you\u2019ll lack control over the front wheel; too low might mean you feel so far over the front wheel you are going to flip over the bars.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cTaller bars will leave you in a more upright position on the bike and shift your weight up and back.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThen you have got sweep. Upsweep is how much the bar swings up from the centre clamp point to the end of the bar. This is generally about five degrees.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhat varies more is backsweep \u2013 how far the bar swings backwards from the centre point to the end of the bars.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMost are between seven and nine degrees. The backsweep influences how much strain is put on your arms.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBefore buying a bar, I\u2019d recommend jumping on a mate\u2019s bike to see what you feel comfortable with.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHow much you roll your bars \u2013 forward or backward \u2013 influences ride position and comfort. Forwards roll creates a more aggressive position, whereas I prefer to roll my bars backwards for comfort.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cClamp diameter measures how fat the bar is in the centre where the stem clamps it. It\u2019s usually either 31.8mm or 35mm, so make sure the clamp diameter is compatible with your stem.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>What\u2019s the best and most economical way to protect a carbon frame against rubbing or scratching from bikepacking bags?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--full=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=300%2C200,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=355%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=405%2C270,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=554%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=620%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=408%2C272,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=556%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img data-crop-width=\""5962"\" data-crop-height=\""3971"\" class=\""wp-image-667564\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--full=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2022\/03\/ORG_DSC00129-5f266af.jpg?quality=90&crop=19px%2C14px%2C5962px%2C3971px&resize=620%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> Soft straps can still damage carbon frames, especially on lengthy wet rides.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Jack Evans \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Jack: \u201cWe\u2019d advise using frame protection such as Invisiframe (which is essentially XPEL tape) where the bags would come into contact with the frame.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cCarbon isn\u2019t great as a material in terms of withstanding abrasion so, beyond any areas where bikepacking bags might rub against the frame, other areas to pay attention to would be the inside of your chainstays, seatstays and fork, where the tyre or any debris could come into contact with the frame.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe downside to this is that you need to be careful when applying any protective tape to protect the paintwork of your frame.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen it comes to removing it, which you also need to do methodically, it can have a tendency to peel off some of the lacquer.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis shouldn\u2019t be a problem if you leave the frame protection on permanently.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Alex: \u201cI use rubber 3M mastic tape to protect my chainstays and this can also be used underneath bikepacking bags.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Should I be riding without a backpack and, if so, where can I put my stuff?<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-635694\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/06\/Hydration-Packs-Best-of-Fox_backpack-52f307f.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> A backpack is the simplest way to carry essentials.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Rob: \u201cPeople ride without packs because it can feel freer and prevents you from getting a sweaty back. But it doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s the right thing to do.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf you don\u2019t want to wear a pack, it\u2019s important that you have space for a <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-cycling-water-bottles\/"\">water bottle on your bike<\/a> so you can stay hydrated.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMany brands now offer dedicated frame straps that\u2019ll allow you to strap a tube, C02 inflator or pump, tyre levers and tools to your bike.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSome brands offer straps with dry bags that\u2019ll even let you bundle everything up and keep it away from the mud, too.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThere are also frames with internal storage, and some saddles have integrated tool storage.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYou can also carry a bum bag for everything else.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cNothing beats a good pack for longer rides, though, especially if you\u2019re venturing somewhere more remote.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThey also offer a bit of extra back protection.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Is my wobbly back wheel likely to be bent, a spoke issue or something else?<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\""image-handler__container\" image-handler__container--aspect=\"\" style=\""padding-bottom:\" calc=\"\"> <picture><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=298%2C199,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=354%2C236,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=403%2C269,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(max-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=553%2C369,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=406%2C271,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/webp"\"><source media=\""(min-width:\" data-srcset=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370,\" https:=\"\" type=\""image\/jpeg"\"><img class=\""wp-image-659140\" align=\"\" size-landscape_thumbnail=\"\" image-handler__image=\"\" image-handler__image--aspect=\"\" no-wrap=\"\" js-lazyload=\"\" data-src=\""https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2021\/12\/Cadex_36_warren_6-b802df9.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413"\" width=\""620"\" height=\""413"\" alt=\"""\" title=\"""\"\/><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><div class=\""caption-hold"\"><figcaption class=\""wp-caption-text"\"><span class=\""caption-copy"\"><i class=\""icon-arrow\" icon-camera-circle=\"\"\/> If wonky wheels are driving you around the bend, head to a bike shop.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\""im-image-caption"\"> <i>Warren Rossiter \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Jack: \u201cFirst, check if it is really your wheel that\u2019s wobbling. It could be your tyre, because it\u2019s not unusual for the tread to wobble back and forth.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt could be the tyre not being seated squarely in the rim. That\u2019s easy to get caught out by with new tyres.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut if it is the wheel, it\u2019s probably gone slightly out of true. The best thing to do is to <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/workshop\/how-to-true-a-road-bike-wheel-video\/"\">true your wheel<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Alex: \u201cTo true your wheel, you\u2019ll need to check your spoke tension. So carefully flip over your bike or put it in a <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-bike-repair-stand\/"\">workstand<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSlowly spin the wheel while feeling the spokes with your hands.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf one is really loose, that\u2019s the obvious culprit. But if they are all pretty tight, it\u2019s a case of fine-tuning them.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Rob: \u201cIf the wheel is far gone, it\u2019s a lot of time and money down the drain. Getting a professional to look at it is no bad thing.\u201d<\/p>\n<hr\/><h2>Subscribe to the BikeRadar Podcast<\/h2>\n<p>Make sure you subscribe to the <a href=\""https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/bikeradar-podcast\/"\">BikeRadar Podcast<\/a> via <a href=\"\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/gb\/podcast\/the-bikeradar-podcast\/id1461106709"\" target=\""_blank"\" rel=\""noopener" noopener noreferrer\">Apple Podcasts<\/a>, <a href=\"\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/6aLvE13Bge7WC7AWbiR3LS"\" target=\""_blank"\" rel=\""noopener" noopener noreferrer\">Spotify<\/a> or your chosen podcast provider, so you don\u2019t miss an episode.<\/p>\n<p>The BikeRadar Podcast takes you to the heart of the issues that matter, whether you\u2019re a roadie, mountain biker, gravel rider or commuter.<\/p>\n<p>From the latest tech news, reviews and debates, to interviews with the biggest personalities in cycling, the podcast is your direct line into the BikeRadar team.<\/p>\n<p><iframe style=\""border-radius:\" src=\""https:\/\/bikeradar.podlink.to\/Podcast?embed=true"\" width=\""480"\" height=\""900"\" frameborder=\""0"\"\/><\/p><\/body><\/html>\n<hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Jack Evans Published: Friday, 24 June 2022 at 12:00 am It\u2019s time for the latest instalment in our Tech Q&A podcast series and, for this episode, BikeRadar\u2019s deputy editor, Jack Luke, and technical editor-in-chief, Rob Weaver, are on hand to answer your questions. With technical editor Alex Evans as your host, Jack discusses carbon […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":38247,"template":"","categories":[1,36],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"8"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-scaled.jpg",2560,1706,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-1024x683.jpg",800,534,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-1536x1024.jpg",1536,1024,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2022\/06\/tech-qa-tubeless-sealant-handlebar-dimensions-bikepacking-protection-and-more-of-your-questions-answered-2048x1365.jpg",2048,1365,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"By Jack Evans Published: Friday, 24 June 2022 at 12:00 am It\u2019s time for the latest instalment in our Tech Q&A podcast series and, for this episode, BikeRadar\u2019s deputy editor, Jack Luke, and technical editor-in-chief, Rob Weaver, are on hand to answer your questions. With technical editor Alex Evans as your host, Jack discusses carbon…","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/38246"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/38247"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38246"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=38246"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}