I don't mean to suggest anything disrespectful or place any responsibility, but I have been thinking this all day: The first shuttle accident was the result of temperature problems casuing a failure in a "O" ring made by Morten-Thiokol (SP?). There has been speculation that this shuttle tragedy may have been related to insulation that became detached during takeoff. Here's my point: You can never be too careful with your equipment. Last year a custer's stem snapped at the handlebar causing a serious crash on a group ride. I asked him "Did this make any creaking noises beforehand?" He said, "It has been creaking for like a month but I just snugged it up and went back out on it." I remember the helicopter crew-chiefs in the Air Force. They went over those birds with a fine tooth comb. They were so anal about preparing them I couldn't believe it. I use them as an inspiration for preparing bikes in here. When bikes break people usually fall.The shuttle thing got me thinking- I know its a stretch, but geez guys, when was the last time you checked your equipment to make sure your stem is tight, your binder bolt isn't stripped, your seatpost isn't seized? check your stuff. You take care of your bike and it will take care of you. OK, that's the end of my lecture.

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Tom Demerly
The Tri Shop.com