I've installed the A2 with the King Cage top cap. It's been working really, really well for me. NO splashing which I like! Easy to refill. I needed to secure it tightly in the cage with a strap because it was tending to spin over to its side while riding. I suppose a tighter cage would eliminate that problem, maybe not, but I just strap it down to keep it in place. Cleaning is not difficult, but if you want to be thorough you will want to take it completely apart, tubes and all, after use. There's a rubber bite valve that isn't the easiest to remove, but after a few times, it's easier than the first time I did it. Because there are so many parts, it's best to take it all apart to keep it clean or else you'll develop that black, slime that builds up over time. If you don't mind that kind of upkeep, this could work well for you.
Anyone have thoughts on the torhans aero tray for mounting joule. Anyone flip it around so the computer is in front of the bottle? Emailed with torhans today and they said you can flip it around but it's not officially recommended because its not designed for that use.
I have the torhans 20 but struggling a bit to get my joule where I want it.. I have the torhans aero tea and profile universal mount kit on the way.
I have my Garmin 500 mounted on the other side of the Torhans 20 but with the Profile mount kit and not the Torhans Aero Tray. It's a tight fit and I don't think I could get a computer longer than the 500 in there... and I think the Joule 2.0 is longer than the Garmin 500. Depends how long your aero bars are to some degree.
Thanks Bob... One factor with the Joule is the way it connects to its mount. To get it off you have to slide it down. So you have to integrate it on the bike in a way that still leaves room to get the damn thing off.
I'm ultimately trying to achieve what you have in your picture. Torhans 20 and Joule mounted up front so I can read it easily with only Glancing down versus actually having to Look down.
Hoping I can make this work as I think the Torhans 20 is pretty slick...
@Nate: You need to mount your Joule like BobM has it, but you need to use a modified version of MAncona's setup like I have. Need to post a picture, sorry.
Basically, use a round cylinder with 2 zip ties that feed around aerobar/through cylinder/around other aerobar/through cylinder...the zip tie should form a dogbone shape.
That way, the round cylinder can rotate a little, allowing you to rotate the Joule facing forward and pull upward to release it.
@Nate - Here is a look at Mine. I borrowed heavily from elsewhere in this post. I have mine farther out on the bars and more in my line of sight while aero. I can also use all the bottons without taking my hands completely off the bars.
I used a piece of sprinkler pipe from the hardware store. I cut it a bit longer than needed and used a file to slightly round out the ends and give it a custom fit. The file only took a second on the soft plastic. Then I drilled holes on each end for the zip ties. The bar tape is spongie and does a great job helping to keep it secure and quite. I don't have the Speedfil A2 in place for the picture, but it fits great there between the bars. I can also use a regular 20oz bottle with ease.
Nate, this is what I meant, but forget the holes and feed zip ties through inside. Then get the zip tie tension right, and the mount will rotate in the same plane as the wheels, allowing you to remove computer.
Very clever! My setup is more or less identical except i purchased a commercial mount (maybe $10?) that attaches to only one of the extensions. I really like having the computer out there. Very easy to see without looking at a strange angle.
Went to LBS yesterday and dropped $$ on the Speedfil and A2. Rode with the new setup today. Like it overall. May make some adjustments. I will say that with all the parts the Spedfil and A2 come with I need a check list to be sure I have it all. And, cleaning is a bit of a pain.
Penny, for what it's worth, I like it better without the bite valve. And when I moving fast in Aero, I flip the straw around so it points down out of the wind, then I spin it up again when it's time to drink.
Dino, Chris, thanks for the pics and explinations. I put the Profile mount kit on last night and will take it out for a spin this weekend to see how it feels. Having the computer up front is a must IMO...If that doesn't work I'm headed to the hardware store to make my own.
Used f2 and liked the size, ease of use, but not the aero properties. Saw tests online that showed it was near the bottom of the list in aero performance. Recently started using the a2. It took lots of tweaking to get it right (forward/back location, level, straw length), but it seems to do the job, and I feel like it gives me an aero advantage over the F2. The a2 also allows me to keep an eye on my drink level. I tried mounting the a2 on a torpedo mount, but it was too far forward, then tried zip ties or velcro stuff, but couldn't get it secured enough for my taste, then bought a stem mount from Speedfil and after adding some washers as shims to level the thing, I think I've found nirvana (except that even with a gorilla cage, the a2 rolls over like it has a mind of its own). I have a second bottle cage fastened under my seat with zip ties and a third aero-shaped bottle on my seat tube. Next time I'm just going to buy a Shiv.
Has anyone found a solution to the speedfil bite valves that are so hard to drink from? I like the fact that the straw doesn't leak (much) but it sure takes a lot of suction to get a good drink of water. Removing the bite valve would probably cause a real mess. I wonder if there is another value out there that would fit the tube and not require so much suction.
I took the bite valve off of mine after one use. I have had no issues at all with leakage or a mess. I rotate my straw down most of the time to keep it out of the wind and I rotate it up to drink, then spin it back down afterwards. Makes it a little easier to suck from, but not a ton. I simply attached mine to the stem with zip ties and have it velcroed down so my bottle doesn't twist at all. I'll try to take some pics tonight.
I took the bite valve off as I couldn't use it (still don't have any bottom teeth - hoepfully bt the end of next month). I put on a Blackburn spring loaded valve which I can depress with my tongue. Don't know if they still make/sell it.
I use the King Cage with a standard bottle holder to mount over my stem, the A2 works just fine with a smaller "Specialized" type bottle.
I put the bite valve back on the Speedfil because it was taking three big pulls to get any water. I'm still not using the bite valve on the A2. I actually like having the A2 slightly tilted mounted on the headset cap so that the drink goes to the bottom where the straw is so I can get the very last of it out.
So I have the Speedfil A2 on the front and I wanted to have a single bottle holder in the middle on the back to hold my 2nd bottle of Infinit (so maybe I won't need to stop at BSN). I couldn't find a rear system I liked, so I bought the Beaker Systems H.5 and drilled some new holes and took my grinder to it until it fit on my the seatpost of my P3.
@John W - my thoughts, you did a beautiful job mounting that puppy ... but ... I question the wisdom of propping that cylindrical water bottle up so vertically behind you. It "looks" like something that could potentially cause a lot of drag. Also, what temperature is the contents of that second infinit bottle going to be by the time you get to it? Add 1.5 pounds to the weight of your bike for the first half of the ride because of that extra bottle as well (I've been told a pound is a watt).
So, my question is, how opposed to stopping at BSN are you? You could leave that second bottle in a thermal lunch pack with a reusable ice block in your BSN bag and it will be ICY COLD when you get it. Plus you'll get to stretch you legs for 30 seconds.
@John - the last thing I wanted to do was stress you out a little over a week before your A race. I know this event is huge for you.
My thoughts: there are aid stations roughly every 10 miles to fill your water bottle. Use the other cage for your concentrated infinit and stop at BSN to change it out for a cold one. To me, it doesn't make sense to drag around an extra bottle that will weigh you down and potentially create drag. EN generally does recommend stopping at BSN and stretching UNLESS it's going to make the difference between securing a Kona spot or not.
I'll take a look at the small novel you posted on the other thread you created later on - but I'm sure some WSMs are going to chime in.
John, don't stress.... Do what your comfortable with and if that means having an extra bottle cage on the rear and carrying your infinit bottle on the back then do it.
Do what your comfortable with and if that means having an extra bottle cage on the rear and carrying your infinit bottle on the back then do it.
...but if you have that second feed bottle on the back and don't have a backup in your BSN bag, DO NOT drop that bottle or absolutely go back and get it if you drop it.
I boogered IMWI'04 because I launched two bottles of Gatorade on a set of railroad tracks and didn't go back for them. Don't be a Dick, in other words
Thanks for the advice Rich (and in the other thread). "If" I keep the bottle on the rear, I will DEFINITELY have a 3rd bottle in BSN just in case I launch the one on back. And I will swap to the new bottle just before BSN to make sure there are no mishaps. That will also give me an extra chance to swap it again if my rear bottle is piss warm and I hate it...
Profile Design Universal Computer Mount between the aerobars (bar tape hides connection to left bar). Computer is right in my face and doesn't get in the way of my hands. Note: Straw isn't in the way...bad angle on the photo.
Speedfil A2 - I like it. It holds a good amount of water and is easy to refill. See the lower photos...I tuck the straw under the armpad when not drinking. I've tried several aero bottles and their caps all suck. This is the first one that actually works. When approaching an aid station, I typically try to drink whatever is in the bottle and then slide open the cap. I then grab a bottle of water, fill the A2 to the top, close it, squirt water on my head, neck and thighs, and drink whatever might be left.
Comments
I've installed the A2 with the King Cage top cap. It's been working really, really well for me. NO splashing which I like! Easy to refill. I needed to secure it tightly in the cage with a strap because it was tending to spin over to its side while riding. I suppose a tighter cage would eliminate that problem, maybe not, but I just strap it down to keep it in place. Cleaning is not difficult, but if you want to be thorough you will want to take it completely apart, tubes and all, after use. There's a rubber bite valve that isn't the easiest to remove, but after a few times, it's easier than the first time I did it. Because there are so many parts, it's best to take it all apart to keep it clean or else you'll develop that black, slime that builds up over time. If you don't mind that kind of upkeep, this could work well for you.
EP
+1 on the King Cage with the new Speedfill top on a standard "Specialized" bottle.
Penny,
Here are some thoughts on the Speedfil A2 in this thread: http://members.endurancenation.us/Training/TrainingForums/tabid/101/aft/8886/afnp/111571/Default.aspx ;
Thanks Bob!
I have the torhans 20 but struggling a bit to get my joule where I want it.. I have the torhans aero tea and profile universal mount kit on the way.
Nate,
I have my Garmin 500 mounted on the other side of the Torhans 20 but with the Profile mount kit and not the Torhans Aero Tray. It's a tight fit and I don't think I could get a computer longer than the 500 in there... and I think the Joule 2.0 is longer than the Garmin 500. Depends how long your aero bars are to some degree.
One factor with the Joule is the way it connects to its mount. To get it off you have to slide it down. So you have to integrate it on the bike in a way that still leaves room to get the damn thing off.
I'm ultimately trying to achieve what you have in your picture. Torhans 20 and Joule mounted up front so I can read it easily with only Glancing down versus actually having to Look down.
Hoping I can make this work as I think the Torhans 20 is pretty slick...
Basically, use a round cylinder with 2 zip ties that feed around aerobar/through cylinder/around other aerobar/through cylinder...the zip tie should form a dogbone shape.
That way, the round cylinder can rotate a little, allowing you to rotate the Joule facing forward and pull upward to release it.
Best,
Chris
@Nate - Here is a look at Mine. I borrowed heavily from elsewhere in this post. I have mine farther out on the bars and more in my line of sight while aero. I can also use all the bottons without taking my hands completely off the bars.
I used a piece of sprinkler pipe from the hardware store. I cut it a bit longer than needed and used a file to slightly round out the ends and give it a custom fit. The file only took a second on the soft plastic. Then I drilled holes on each end for the zip ties. The bar tape is spongie and does a great job helping to keep it secure and quite. I don't have the Speedfil A2 in place for the picture, but it fits great there between the bars. I can also use a regular 20oz bottle with ease.
Anybody using the Speedfil A2 or F2? Thought on either?
I took the bite valve off as I couldn't use it (still don't have any bottom teeth - hoepfully bt the end of next month). I put on a Blackburn spring loaded valve which I can depress with my tongue. Don't know if they still make/sell it.
I use the King Cage with a standard bottle holder to mount over my stem, the A2 works just fine with a smaller "Specialized" type bottle.
So I have the Speedfil A2 on the front and I wanted to have a single bottle holder in the middle on the back to hold my 2nd bottle of Infinit (so maybe I won't need to stop at BSN). I couldn't find a rear system I liked, so I bought the Beaker Systems H.5 and drilled some new holes and took my grinder to it until it fit on my the seatpost of my P3.
So, my question is, how opposed to stopping at BSN are you? You could leave that second bottle in a thermal lunch pack with a reusable ice block in your BSN bag and it will be ICY COLD when you get it. Plus you'll get to stretch you legs for 30 seconds.
Just my two cents.
I hope Coach R doesn't see that photo.
If he does, he will go nuts as he hates anything behind the seat.
I have been stressing out all morning about your comments. As not to hijack this setup thread, I added a new thread on the rear hydration topic here: http://members.endurancenation.us/Training/TrainingForums/tabid/101/aft/9486/Default.aspx Would love any/all of your detailed feedback.
My thoughts: there are aid stations roughly every 10 miles to fill your water bottle. Use the other cage for your concentrated infinit and stop at BSN to change it out for a cold one. To me, it doesn't make sense to drag around an extra bottle that will weigh you down and potentially create drag. EN generally does recommend stopping at BSN and stretching UNLESS it's going to make the difference between securing a Kona spot or not.
I'll take a look at the small novel you posted on the other thread you created later on
Do what your comfortable with and if that means having an extra bottle cage on the rear and carrying your infinit bottle on the back then do it.
...but if you have that second feed bottle on the back and don't have a backup in your BSN bag, DO NOT drop that bottle or absolutely go back and get it if you drop it.
I boogered IMWI'04 because I launched two bottles of Gatorade on a set of railroad tracks and didn't go back for them. Don't be a Dick, in other words
My current setup...
Profile Design Universal Computer Mount between the aerobars (bar tape hides connection to left bar). Computer is right in my face and doesn't get in the way of my hands. Note: Straw isn't in the way...bad angle on the photo.
http://www.profile-design.com/profile-design/products/hydration/all-hydration
Profile Design Kage mounted with Profile Design HC Mount
http://www.profile-design.com/profile-design/products/hydration/column-two/kage.html
http://www.profile-design.com/profile-design/products/accessories/other-accessories/ucm----ucm-xl-.html
Speedfil A2 - I like it. It holds a good amount of water and is easy to refill. See the lower photos...I tuck the straw under the armpad when not drinking. I've tried several aero bottles and their caps all suck. This is the first one that actually works. When approaching an aid station, I typically try to drink whatever is in the bottle and then slide open the cap. I then grab a bottle of water, fill the A2 to the top, close it, squirt water on my head, neck and thighs, and drink whatever might be left.
http://www.invisciddesign.com/A2.htm