Embrace the Joy of Cycling: Let Your Bike Setup Be “Good Enough”

Finding Freedom in the Ride

Cycling is not just about the gear; it’s about the joy of the ride. While many enthusiasts pour over every minute detail of their bike setups, there’s beauty in simplicity. Imagine this: a crisp morning, the sun peeking over the horizon as you hop onto your trusty steed. You’re not worried about perfect PSI or meticulously measured sealant volumes—you’re simply riding. That’s the ethos of one cycling journalist, who balances a passion for performance with the liberated rush of hitting the open road.

The Art of Letting Go

Being in the cycling industry often means having access to the best road and gravel bikes money can buy. One might assume that such access breeds obsessive meticulousness about bike setups. Surprisingly, this journalist embraces a more carefree approach, stopping short of minor details that don’t directly impact the pure joy of cycling.

Tyre Pressure: More Flexible Than You Think

Let’s explore perhaps one of the most debated topics among cyclists: tyre pressure. In the past, cyclists experienced a narrow margin for error with thinner tyres. A hard tyre made for a jarring ride, while too-soft rubber risked all-out disaster from a pothole.

Today’s wider tyres—like 28c—carry a broader safety net. Tests reveal that cyclists hardly notice a difference in performance from 60PSI to 90PSI. So, unless you’re riding on hookless rims, why stress over reaching the “just right” pressure? As long as you avoid extreme highs or lows that can lead to an uncomfortable ride or rim damage, you’re likely good to go.

Sealant Volume: A Guesstimate Will Do

When it comes to sealing tubeless tyres, the old adage of “better too much than too little” applies here. Many cyclists might measure their sealant, but our cycling aficionado simply pours in a good slosh of sealant without counting millilitres. While there’s a slight weight and rolling resistance penalty, the time saved on maintenance is worth more than precise measurements.

Chain Lubrication without the Hassle

After experimenting with chain wax—a meticulous process involving cleaning and re-waxing—this cyclist happily returns to chain oil. Why? Because an easy application keeps the ride smooth even in miserable weather. Every cyclist has their preferences, but when practicality meets cycling enjoyment, who could argue?

Original Insights: Find Your Balance

It’s essential to remember that gear and setups can deeply affect performance. But finding the balance between meticulous preparation and simply enjoying your ride is crucial. For instance, knowing when to tune your bike and when just to hit the trail could save you time and stress—two key ingredients to a great cycling experience.

Takeaway: Ride More, Worry Less

As you prepare to roll out on your bike, consider what truly matters. It’s not the individual PSI or the exact amount of sealant; it’s the simple fact that you’re out there, pedaling through the world with the wind at your back. Embrace the freedom that comes with letting go of the nitty-gritty details—after all, cycling is about the journey, not the numbers. Whether you’re racing your friends or enjoying a leisurely ride, the most important thing is to enjoy every mile. Happy cycling!

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