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#11
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Thanks
We are serious, and I know Adams well, my wife and I spent a week hiking the area in September 04 and we've hiked Mt Greylock several times before. I'd gladly head there or to the High Peaks Cyclery in the Adirondaks or to Nordic Skater in Vermont or anywhere else within 3-6 hours drive for a shop that will simply have a selection of boots to try on in several sizes around our sizes. It's very hard to find a shop that will have 2-3 different boots to try on in two sizes each. Many shops (understandably) try to sell you what they have, not necessarily what will work best for you. Can you imagine us putting all those questions together if we weren't serious? : ) Have a good weekend, Mountainwalker |
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#12
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Mountainwalker,
I've rollerskied on two pairs of Jenex Aero 150s with the calf-activated brakes, one pair mounted with Salomon profil bindings, the other with Pilot bindings. I also rollerski with both Salomon Racing Skate 9 boots and Carbon Pro boots. First, the brakes are very reliable and have allowed me to rollerski on hilly roads that I wouldn't attempt on rollerskis without some brake mechanism. I don't think the Jenex speed reducers are intended to serve in a braking capacity; they're intended to slow the ski for more resistance in the workout. So, if you're looking for a safety feature that allows you to come to relatively quick stops, the brakes, rather than the speed reducers are the way to go. My first pair of Aero 150s were mounted with profil bindings to match the profil boots I was using at the time of purchase. When I later bought pilot-soled Racing Skate 9 boots, I found the profil bindings on the rollerskis worked perfectly well with the pilot boots. In fact, I liked the ride even more because the Racing Skate 9 boots press up against the stiff flexor (toe bumper) more aggressively. If you examine the front toe-bar area of profil and pilot skate boots, I think you'll notice that the front toe bar on the pilot boots sits back a hair more under the toe of the boot than it does on the profil boot. This small change in placement of the toe bar means that when mated with the profil binding, the pilot boot exerts more pressure on the flexor than the profil-soled boot. In my experience with the Aero 150, the additional pressure that the pilot boot exerts on the profil flexor makes for a much more ski-like ride. My second pair of Aero 150s were mounted with pilot bindings. After two unhappy outings on the Aero 150s with pilot bindings, I had the pilot bindings removed, and the skis were remounted with profil bindings. The advice you referenced from NordicSkater matches my experience. The Aero 150s are heavier than snow skis and, therefore, the angle of separation between boot and rollerski with pilot bindings is too great on the return phase from push off. (The weight of the rollerski means the rollerski pulls away from the boot too much on the return phase of skating.) The pilot-mounted Aero 150s felt like they were dragging/dangling out there. I found this really annoying. The back pressure of the profil flexor on the pilot boot keeps the boot and Aero 150 more "together" on return phase -- much more like snow skiing. The SR 100/105 is supposed to be lighter than the Aero 150, so perhaps the SR 100/105 wouldn't "hang" as much on the return phase with pilot bindings. Perhaps this is a statement of heresy (as many successful high-level racers use the pilot binding on snow skis), but I strongly prefer the profil binding -- even on snow skis. I bought new Atomic RS-11s and Rossi X-iums this past season and had them mounted with profil skating bindings (115 flexors). If I didn't have so much invested in Salomon pilot boots, I would switch to the NNN system, which still employs the tried-and-true flexor approach on its new R4 binding. (Hmmm ... Fischer's reportedly going to shift its boot-sole format to NNN. I'd be grateful if Salomon would continue to offer flexor-based profil bindings with skate flexors.) And, this brings me to your query about boots. The Carbon Pros are more narrow, which means I need a half size larger than the Racing Skate 9s. I like them both quite a bit. The Racing Skate 9s are warmer boots (nice in winter, a bit too toasty in the summer) and feel a bit more supportive for rollerskiing, but the lighter weight of the Carbon Pros makes for a more speedy feel. Some have said Carbon Pros fit like cruel shoes; they fit fine for me -- definitely more snug, but better ski feel. Good luck with the rollerskiing. wrote: First, thank you to all of you for sharing your experience on this usenet. I've picked up some great tips. I'm new to roller skiing, about to pick up my first pair of roller skis. I've done a lot of research and plan on picking up V2 105 SR roller skis, which Jenex is supposed to re-release in early June (the first release was called 100 SR but was recalled because of problems with early tire wear). For the type of roller skiing I intend to do, skate skiing on relatively smooth pavement for fitness all year around in the Northeast, I think these skis and tires will provide the best experience - they are fairly low to the ground, the tires have a forgiving feel, and the skis are more stable than the V2 125 or 150. I'm thinking of getting the following package: V2 105 SR roller skis with Skate bindings - Profil or Pilot??? Salomon Race Skate 9 boots or Carbon Pro boots??? Speed reducer Poles with sharp road tips Questions: 1) Can anyone suggest any good sources, mail order and stores, for a complete package for the above? I've already found a few, interested in your suggestions. 2) I've heard that the Carbon Pro boots have a narrower toe box than the Race Skate 9s. Is this true? Can anyone comment on the fit? 3) With a true US shoe size of 11, and given that I typically take an 11.5 hiking shoe or running shoe, and generally take either a normal or EE shoe depending on the cut, which size Carbon Pros and Skate 9s would you suggest? 4) How tight a fit should I go for? Too tight and I'm afraid the boot will not allow enough circulation to keep my feet warm in winter. 5) Which boot, Skate 9 or Carbon Pro, is going to be hotter in summer? 6) Given that I plan on roller skiing 4 seasons, and here summers get hot and winters get cold, can anyone suggest which kind of sock to use with the boot? Light hiking merino sock, medium sock or heavier ski/winter sock? 7) Which binding should I use, Profil or Pilot? I read a post on this usenet that Jamie of NordicSkater in Vermont recommends people use Profil bindings instead of Pilot because the boot bumper is stiffer, preventing some of the RS hang when one picks up one's foot. What is meant by RS hang? Return ski? The poster wrote that the Pilot bumper is softer so that the ski tail will drop farther. What is the advantage of a Pilot binding at all then, if there is one? 8) If one has a speed reducer, is the leg brake worthwhile? 9) Can anyone make any roller skiing pole recommendations? Especially poles that will plant firmly but absorb some shock (though good form will probably get rid of the impact felt). I'm 6 ft 180 lbs if that helps. And can you recommend good sources for cheap poles? From winter skiing it just seems there are always many used poles to pick up in fairly good shape. I'd sincerely appreciate any comments/suggestions. |
#13
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I have a somewhat simian foot, and suffer the tortures of the damned
with width issues. Only thing I've found decent are ROssignols thermo-form. Interestingly, I picked up a pair of Atomic skate ski boots this year that are fantastic, although they have a tenancy to separate at the zipper, so I've been told. I have both the Rossi X-6 combis and the skate for interested parties. Randy |
#14
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thanks for the suggestion. Spoke with Steve,
he really does know his stuff and seems to have a very good selection of boots to choose from. |
#15
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Marcuski,
That was a super informative post. What luck to find someone that has used the Skate 9 and the Carbon Pro and has used V2s! Thanks very much for sharing. Found out the new Carbon Pros, which are available already, have a roomier toe box like the Skate 9s. However, heard they're all black, while the 2005 Carbon Pros and Skate 9s are silver. I imagine the 2006 Carbon Pro will be very hot in summer with the black absorbing heat from the sun (though as you pointed out the Race Skate 9 is a thicker, warmer boot than the Carbon Pro). Which boot would you recommend, for all year use, assuming fit works for us? The 2005 Carbon Pro, the 2006 Carbon Pro or the 2005 Race Skate 9? My wife will probably be OK with the 2005 Carbon Pro, but I may need the slightly roomier toe box of the Race Skate 9 2005 or Carbon Pro 2006. Re socks, we'd like to use our roller skis all year, but we're buying one set of boots each - which means we have to buy them with a fit for a particular thickness of sock. We were thinking we'd use light merino hiking socks, with a super thin liner sock underneath. What would you recommend for poles? Would you recommend a single piece shaft or a multi-section adjustable? I ask because adjustables are obviously easier to travel with. The V2 100/105 body is available, but Jenex has yet to release with the new microcellular tubes - if we pick up the skis before Jenex gets their tire act together (they've had trouble finding a tire that will not wear out too quickly), which air tube tire should we use in the meantime? We liked the fact that the 100/105 also use slightly smaller tires than the V2 150 or 125, better for pavement - we just don't want to wait all summer for Jenex to find a tire. Thanks again for all the great advice. |
#16
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On 14 May 2006 21:06:58 -0700, "mountainwalker"
wrote: Re socks, we'd like to use our roller skis all year, but we're buying one set of boots each - which means we have to buy them with a fit for a particular thickness of sock. We were thinking we'd use light merino hiking socks, with a super thin liner sock underneath. I don't think it's normal to use racing ski boots with two pairs of socks. JFT **************************** Remove "remove" to reply Visit http://www.jt10000.com **************************** |
#17
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Hi JFT,
The liner sock is a super thin sock - and a light hiking sock is about as thin as a casual shoe sock. The liner sock just helps prevent blisters and makes the boot more comfortable in both hot and cold weather - very common to use in backpacking and hiking Helps get rid of moisture and heat, and instead of your foot rubbing against the sock, the socks rub against each other. Do you think the liner sock would cause a performance problem? Anyway, most important is a boot that fits very well. Thanks. |
#18
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Mountainwalker,
Glad to hear you found the user feedback to be helpful. To be honest, I'm not sure if I can offer any advice on which of the three boots to go with. I haven't skied on the new "black beauty" Carbon Pro boots, although, I, too, have read the toebox is supposed to be more roomy than that of the silver Carbon Pro boots. If the fit of all three boots works for you, perhaps you might like the lighter/faster ride of the Carbon Pros. The Racing Skate 9s feel more stable, but my forward ankle flex feels less restrained in the Carbon Pros, and that -- very subjectively -- feels faster and quicker on the turnover. Maybe I don't need that taller and more supportive cuff on the Racing Skate 9. I would imagine that fit is a greater priority than the relative heat retaining properties of the boots since your feet are going to be hot and sweaty no matter what. So, if you can, try them all on. At this time of year, you might find a good deal on the silver Racing Skate 9 and Carbon Pros, since they're being discontinued. Regarding socks, I wear a coolmax-light wool blend with no liner. Cotton is the fast path to blisters. I don't know of folks who rollerski with adjustable poles, such as those made for hiking or snowshoeing. I think you would be better served by using regular Nordic ski poles that are at least moderately stiff -- maybe 40 percent carbon. I use Swix CT-4 poles with rollerski ferrules mounted on the tips. I have used less stiff poles with more fiberglass and less carbon. These lower-grade poles bowed sharply everytime I poled hard, especially up hills. When poles bow, energy is lost which causes inefficiency. Plus, it just feels all wrong to put a lot of force into your poling only feel them bend. Your poling will feel more energetic and powerful if you use at least a moderately stiff ski pole. Several V2 rollerski vendors describe the 150 as a ski better suited for those who weigh more than 180lbs. and for rougher roads. The 150 uses 6-inch wheels; the 125 uses 5-inch wheels. I use the 150 exclusively on roads, which, in my neck of the woods are pebble-strewn and rife with cracks. The pneumatic wheels are susceptible to flats, but this has happend only once in more than a year. I wear a fanny pack with a spare rim-mounted tire and two small (4-inch) tools required for swapping -- it's easy to do and takes about three minutes. The culprit was a carpet nail on the road. Obviously, getting a flat is a far greater problem if the rear braking wheel gets "nailed," and you're hurtling down a hill. Then, I suppose, it would be time to bail for a patch of grass. I have read the general sentiment that there are better, lighter hard-wheeled rollerskis that make for a more ski-like ride (e.g. Marwe 610, Elpex F-1), but for the road conditions I'm forced to contend with, I need the brake and the ability to roll over just about anything without a hitch. Hope this helps. mountainwalker wrote: Marcuski, That was a super informative post. What luck to find someone that has used the Skate 9 and the Carbon Pro and has used V2s! Thanks very much for sharing. Found out the new Carbon Pros, which are available already, have a roomier toe box like the Skate 9s. However, heard they're all black, while the 2005 Carbon Pros and Skate 9s are silver. I imagine the 2006 Carbon Pro will be very hot in summer with the black absorbing heat from the sun (though as you pointed out the Race Skate 9 is a thicker, warmer boot than the Carbon Pro). Which boot would you recommend, for all year use, assuming fit works for us? The 2005 Carbon Pro, the 2006 Carbon Pro or the 2005 Race Skate 9? My wife will probably be OK with the 2005 Carbon Pro, but I may need the slightly roomier toe box of the Race Skate 9 2005 or Carbon Pro 2006. Re socks, we'd like to use our roller skis all year, but we're buying one set of boots each - which means we have to buy them with a fit for a particular thickness of sock. We were thinking we'd use light merino hiking socks, with a super thin liner sock underneath. What would you recommend for poles? Would you recommend a single piece shaft or a multi-section adjustable? I ask because adjustables are obviously easier to travel with. The V2 100/105 body is available, but Jenex has yet to release with the new microcellular tubes - if we pick up the skis before Jenex gets their tire act together (they've had trouble finding a tire that will not wear out too quickly), which air tube tire should we use in the meantime? We liked the fact that the 100/105 also use slightly smaller tires than the V2 150 or 125, better for pavement - we just don't want to wait all summer for Jenex to find a tire. Thanks again for all the great advice. |
#19
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"Marcuski" schreef in bericht
ups.com... The pneumatic wheels are susceptible to flats, but this has happend only once in more than a year. I greatly advise running tire sealent in the tubes. I've had several flats (overnight) with my crosskates, and just adding under an ounce of sealent always did the trick, and flats never came back. In 150mm wheels, a mere ounce would be like topping them off, making flats something that will just not happen until it dries out. I've been riding a townie bike with a big fat nail in the front tire for over half a year now. Sealent was in there already, I never noticed getting the nail in, just got annoyed by a ticking sounds and eventually looked after a few weeks of riding it like that. |
#20
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On 15 May 2006 07:57:07 -0700, "mountainwalker"
wrote: Do you think the liner sock [under other sock] would cause a performance problem? I don't know. I just haven't heard of it being done with racing equipment and don't see the point. JFT **************************** Remove "remove" to reply Visit http://www.jt10000.com **************************** |
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