tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85286862317650210972024-03-13T11:02:23.789+09:00Antisthenes' corollary*:rule out neither malice nor stupidity.Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.comBlogger541125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-49292824361131244382017-02-08T02:59:00.001+09:002017-02-08T02:59:53.986+09:00Tandem/Family Tripping CanoesSmaller to Larger<br />
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<a href="http://www.novacraft.com/canoes/pal-16/">Nova Craft Pal</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.swiftcanoe.com/keewaydin-16">Swift Keewaydin 16</a>'<br />
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<a href="http://www.esquif.com/en/touring/avalon/">Esquif Avalon</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.esquif.com/en/touring/mistral/">Esquif Mistral 16'</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.novacraft.com/canoes/tripper-16/">Nova Craft Tripper</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.swiftcanoe.com/keewaydin-17">Swift Keewaydin 17</a>'<br />
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<a href="http://www.esquif.com/en/touring/prospecteur-17/">Esquif Prospector 17'</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.novacraft.com/canoes/prospector-17-2/">Nova Craft Prospector 17</a>'<br />
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<a href="http://www.esquif.com/en/touring/mistral-17-5/">Esquif Mistral 17.5'</a>Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-56685191867302445812017-01-27T05:48:00.000+09:002017-02-08T00:08:17.878+09:00Solo Tripping Canoes, flatwater to class II whitewater<a href="http://www.swiftcanoe.com/keewaydin-15">Swift Keewaydin</a> - 15', 29.5", 34lb<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCspf0gHbAj8SAcnvV3F2rTmpLO-AIY3sDYN7dqZ3vhUwKPDeM0CFrfz158iRiEKAuVZdKL4XaJRktsT6ApWIDvpvyfMNuXiPq5PX7wJTa1W0YlLskGBc17xU4YsklyjaNiJE9WZ57KNz/s1600/f1b4eb_766eeaabcb8b44b190184c147798a293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCspf0gHbAj8SAcnvV3F2rTmpLO-AIY3sDYN7dqZ3vhUwKPDeM0CFrfz158iRiEKAuVZdKL4XaJRktsT6ApWIDvpvyfMNuXiPq5PX7wJTa1W0YlLskGBc17xU4YsklyjaNiJE9WZ57KNz/s400/f1b4eb_766eeaabcb8b44b190184c147798a293.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://northstarcanoes.com/canoe/phoenix/">North Star Phoenix, 14' 6", 30"</a>, 41lb.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln1LhdOzy9HQPOBAHq2ixFgzV9ldJM1dKg55t5qe82-nZuzOBzeTEQz-Vpmm7AOM8lJWECLRfYyTVzrk9wfoNxWqzAcZwTexKHa4H36bNwsUTnxL5_nHgHZK211Z36do5baP5btdFli1I/s1600/Phoenix_top1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln1LhdOzy9HQPOBAHq2ixFgzV9ldJM1dKg55t5qe82-nZuzOBzeTEQz-Vpmm7AOM8lJWECLRfYyTVzrk9wfoNxWqzAcZwTexKHa4H36bNwsUTnxL5_nHgHZK211Z36do5baP5btdFli1I/s400/Phoenix_top1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.wenonah.com/Canoes.aspx?id=115">Wenonah Wilderness, 15' 4", 30.5"</a>, 43lb.<br />
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<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-90085648360693997052017-01-09T12:21:00.001+09:002017-01-11T00:49:47.195+09:00Ford Transit Connect Wagon: the car for a family to do it all.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://files.graphiq.com/4315/media/images/2017_Ford_Transit_Connect_9146108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://files.graphiq.com/4315/media/images/2017_Ford_Transit_Connect_9146108.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The car I should have bought, not the CRV I did: they cost about the same. The thing about SUVs is that they are too big to drive well, but too small to be useful. You should either get a wagon or a hatchback, because they are pretty useful, but small enough to drive well; or you should get a truck or a van, because they are big enough to be useful, if too big to drive well.</div>
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<b>A note on drive-wheels</b>, best to worst: AWD oriented to the rear, AWD oriented to the front, RWD, FWD. I am hoping the AWD version they sell overseas comes here. God, Americans don't like the right cars (and Canada is the same market).</div>
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<b>This van fixes all my problems</b>, except driving sporty: family van, low-cost stealth camper, cargo van, and more. Let me explain:</div>
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- Fits <b>more than four </b>people well</div>
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<a href="http://www.futureautoreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2017-Ford-Transit-Connect-seats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.futureautoreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2017-Ford-Transit-Connect-seats.jpg" height="227" width="400" /></a></div>
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- <b>Fits in a standard parking space and is short enough to enter parking garages.</b> Is narrower, shorter, and not as long as the Dodge/Mercedes Sprinter, and isn't made by those unreliable companies, nor Fiat/Chrysler. </div>
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- Unlike any other van in N America, <b>the second and third rows fold flat</b>! Whether left in the car, or removed! Look how they put a flat backing on the third row! <b>Bed space for tall people</b>, like me. Also long and wide enough to take 4'x8' plywood flat, which is the sign of a long enough <i>truck </i>bed.</div>
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I'd get dual sliding doors, because kids are clueless with swinging doors, and to encourage my kids to play door gunner... where it's safe enough.</div>
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<a href="http://cdn.history.com/sites/2/2013/12/american-gunners-firing-from-helicopters-P.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.history.com/sites/2/2013/12/american-gunners-firing-from-helicopters-P.jpeg" height="207" width="400" /></a></div>
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Think I'd get a lift-gate, not barn-doors, because it keeps you out of the wet.</div>
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<a href="http://www.ford.com/ngbs-services/resources/ford/transitvanwagon/2017/equipment/trn17_models_detailflip_sliding_passenger_door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ford.com/ngbs-services/resources/ford/transitvanwagon/2017/equipment/trn17_models_detailflip_sliding_passenger_door.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
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My <b>stealth-camper modifications</b>, that allow me to hold onto warranty and resale, and keep plumbing out of the vehicle? I wouldn't want the smell of cooking or shitting inside of it. </div>
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Cheap, to not very expensive:</div>
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- screen window covers</div>
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- insulated blackout window covers</div>
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- a huge black tarp and poles to make my own shade</div>
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- heated carpet and electric space heaters for when I have 'shore power', so I never worry about carbon-monoxide</div>
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- a second battery, isolated so that if used up never runs down the main</div>
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- small fans to move around air when sleeping, and maybe some reading lights and charging points</div>
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- a double mattress on the floor, and a removable double bunk above it, made from a couple of folding tables</div>
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<a href="http://www.staples-3p.com/s7/is/image/Staples/s0328395_sc7?$splssku$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.staples-3p.com/s7/is/image/Staples/s0328395_sc7?$splssku$" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now I can park it anywhere and sleep for free. But what if I wanted to turn it into a family camper for longer road trips?</div>
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All of the above, and some of:</div>
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- bike rack</div>
- trailer-hitch<br />
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- hitch box, carrying a portable kitchen, privacy tent and an outdoor shower (toilet?)</div>
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<a href="http://b.cdnbrm.com/images/products/large/hitch_accessories/tailgate_cargo_box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://b.cdnbrm.com/images/products/large/hitch_accessories/tailgate_cargo_box.jpg" height="313" width="400" /></a><a href="https://www.natureanddiscoveryvillage.com/image/cache/data/Nemo-Helio-Lifestyle-1-1000x1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://www.natureanddiscoveryvillage.com/image/cache/data/Nemo-Helio-Lifestyle-1-1000x1000.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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- roof racks</div>
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- a canoe!</div>
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- a hard-sided roof tent</div>
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<a href="http://www.camper-van-fun.com/images/app_full_proxy.php.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.camper-van-fun.com/images/app_full_proxy.php.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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These modifications cost only $1000 to $5000 (CAD). Sure beats $10000 to infinity for a camper-conversion.</div>
Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-88891833910534905572016-03-11T05:08:00.002+09:002016-03-11T05:20:10.544+09:00Kindle: 'read everywhere'?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.ndtv.com/tech/images/gadgets/send_to_kindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.ndtv.com/tech/images/gadgets/send_to_kindle.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
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Any question from a headline may be answered, 'No.'
You cannot always, much less easily, read Kindle content once you've moved abroad.<br />
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<a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2012/12/kindle-paperwhite.html">Wherein Antisthenes buys a Kindle Paperwhite</a><br />
<a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2013/11/kindle-paperwhite-one-year.html">Whereat Antisthenes comments on a year of its use</a><br />
<a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/06/kindle-paperwhite-broken.html">Wherein Antisthenes' Paperwhite breaks just after warranty</a><br />
<a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2013/03/kindle-android-app-japan-fail.html">Wherein Antisthenes has his first frustrations with transferring Kindle content abroad</a><br />
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<strong>There are three basic problems:</strong><br />
- E-readers are cheaply built<br />
- you do not own E-books from retailers, only gain rights to them<br />
- every bloody country has different rules on the content, making it troublesome to transfer<br />
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<strong>The results are:</strong><br />
- it's better to read E-books on your phone, blackscreen, than buy a dubious device<br />
- OTH, real books are much more satisfying and memorable<br />
- better you choose one commercial E-book source in one country and stick to it than try much to transfer<br />
- or, as there are precious few left standing, use Amazon in one country, and Google Books in another<br />
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This applies to paid-for e-books only, of course.<br />
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<strong>Details:</strong><br />
There's little point explaining how I transferred my e-books initially from Amazon Japan, as they have changed the rules since, in a way neither better nor worse but nonsensical. Nor is there much point in complaining that the sensible thing for Amazon to do with its app is allow multiple sign-ins, so that no matter which country content is paid for, the user can access it indefinitely without having to strip DRM (a process both illegal and troublesome) attempt to transfer it, or sign-out/in each time they want to access books bought from the other Amazon location. In the end, Kindle loses any further business.<br />
<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-86385108350412357972015-09-20T03:23:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.909+09:00Crossover: CRV or Forester<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">Tried the Outback: too fucking big for the city. It's down to the CRV or Forester now. In short, the Honda's more reliable, but the Forester comes with better options at the price. Also everyone has a CRV, and I do not like its few colour choices.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">Here's what I'm comparing.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">CRV LX $27678</b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">- red or one in the greyscale</span></div>
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- cargo cover not included</div>
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- rack not included</div>
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<b>Forester Convenience Automatic $27731</b></div>
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- multiple colours</div>
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- heated mirrors</div>
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- rack included</div>
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- automatic lights</div>
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- fog lights included</div>
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- power front seat</div>
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- hill descent</div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">- cargo cover</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">- more mats included</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">- 17" better wheels</span></span></div>
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Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-46727366221625000152015-09-08T07:14:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.825+09:00NDP response about refugees: Etobicoke-Lakeshore<div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">
Thanks for writing in. I could not agree more with your assessment of the appropriate role for Canada in dealing with this crisis. I believe Canada to be a nation built on principles of compassion, and increasing and expediting refugee resettlement while also providing increased relief on the ground is a fundamental expression of those principles.<br style="line-height: 21.3px;" /><br style="line-height: 21.3px;" />Below, please find the party's outlined proposals for expanding our refugee resettlement program and increasing aid to agencies in the region. If you have any further questions or would like additional details, please don't hesitate to let me know and I'll do my best to answer your question.<br style="line-height: 21.3px;" /><br style="line-height: 21.3px;" />Thanks again for writing in and lending your voice in support of the refugees. </div>
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<b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><i style="line-height: 18.176px;">The challenge:</i></b><i style="line-height: 18.176px;"><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></i></div>
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<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">The crisis in Syria has generated more than 4 million refugees and displaced more than 7.6 million Syrians within the country.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn1" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref1" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[i]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">This is the largest single refugee crisis in more than a quarter century.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn2" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref2" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[ii]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">According to the UNHCR, more than 2,500 people have died this summer crossing the Mediterranean, trying to reach Europe.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn3" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref3" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[iii]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">The UNHCR is aiming to resettle 130,000 Syrian refugees by the end of 2016. Canada has resettled 2,374 to date, with a commitment to take an additional 8,926 by the end of 2017.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn4" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref4" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[iv]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">François Crépeau, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, has called for the West to resettle 1 million Syrian refugees over the next five years.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn5" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref5" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[v]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Canada’s share of the global total, according to Crépeau, would be 9,000 Syrian refugees per year.<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14fa91d4af0c337f__edn6" name="14fa91d4af0c337f__ednref6" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18.176px;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">[vi]</span></a><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><i style="line-height: 18.176px;">The NDP Plan:</i></b><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><i style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;"><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></i></b></div>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">RESETTLE 10,000 REFUGEES BY END OF YEAR, PLUS 9,000 A YEAR FOR NEXT 4 YEARS</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;"><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Appoint a Syrian Refugee Coordinator to coordinate the resources of government departments to oversee processing, travel to Canada, and resettlement; and,</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;"><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Bring in 10,000 refugees by end of 2015 and 9,000 a year between 2016 and 2019, making it a priority to keep families together.<br style="line-height: 18.176px;" /><br style="line-height: 18.176px;" /><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">ACCELERATE ARRIVAL OF REFUGEES</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;"> <b style="line-height: 18.176px;">IN CANADA</b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;"><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Increase the number of immigration officials on the ground; and,<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Work with provinces, territories, municipalities, and others to resettle refugees. <br style="line-height: 18.176px;" /><br style="line-height: 18.176px;" /><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">REMOVE BUREAUCRATIC OBSTACLES TO SETTLEMENT</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;"><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px;" type="1"><ul style="line-height: 18.176px; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 20px 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 1em;">
<li class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.176px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">Work with Turkey and other affected countries to streamline exit requirements; and,<u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></li>
<li class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.176px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">Treat all refugees equally by ending Canada’s policy of discrimination on the basis of religion. <br style="line-height: 20.8267px;" /><br style="line-height: 20.8267px;" /><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></li>
</ul>
</ol>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">INCREASE CANADA’S HUMANITARIAN CONTRIBUTION</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;"><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></div>
<ol start="1" style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px;" type="1"><ul style="line-height: 18.176px; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px 0px 20px 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 1em;">
<li class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.176px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">Match Canadians’ humanitarian donations;<u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></li>
<li class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.176px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">Increase aid to the United Nations High Commission on Refugees; and,<u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></li>
<li class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.176px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 20.8267px;">Help coordinate the response of the international community. <br style="line-height: 20.8267px;" /><br style="line-height: 20.8267px;" /><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u><u style="line-height: 20.8267px;"></u></span></li>
</ul>
</ol>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><b style="line-height: 18.176px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">IMPROVE REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;"><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Fast-track private sponsorships, with no cap; and,<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px; line-height: 18.176px; margin-bottom: 1.35em;">
<u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Symbol; line-height: 18.176px;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 13.2533px;"> </span></span><u style="line-height: 18.176px;"></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.176px;">Provide temporary resident permits for Syrians who wish to come and stay temporarily with family.</span></div>
</div>
Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-52299132038487352015-09-05T04:40:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.842+09:00Canadian Federal Election: refugee resettlement to Canada<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="348" src="http://www.cbc.ca/i/caffeine/syndicate/?mediaId=2674924796" width="620"></iframe></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Sent to the Green, NDP, Liberal and Conservative candidates for my riding in the October Canadian Federal Election.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am a voter in your riding, and will vote in the October federal election. I am asking for a clear statement of each candidate's position on increasing and expediting refugee resettlement in Canada, as well as aiding displaced persons abroad.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most Canadian citizens and residents have displaced persons in their family history. When I was a child <span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">over thirty years ago, the Conservative, Liberal and New Democratic Parties agreed to accept tens of thousands of Vietnamese and other Indo-Chinese refugees. It was a proud moment for Canada, and does honour to each party. I have now worked with the children of these refugees, and my children are in school with their grandchildren. My Vietnamese-Canadian friends and colleagues are some of the most grateful Canadians I have ever known.</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"></span></span>Canada should regain it's status as the most generous country in the world to displaced persons. According to the UN we are now fourteenth. Fewer than ten-percent of immigrants are refugees. We could double this number. Despite a recession, we are one of the richest countries in the world. We are one of the most multi-ethnic, and peaceful. If not us, whom? Let it be us. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I hope I have permission to post your response on my Facebook page and other social media. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Thank you.</blockquote>
<br />
I hope to have responses to add.Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-51991734920774226452015-08-30T04:04:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.839+09:00Alas, Honda CRV?Of <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/08/as-theres-no-legacy-wagon-anymore.html">a</a>ll models I have <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/08/fuck-crossovers.html">listed </a>before, as <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/08/more-boring-crossovers-two-rows-not.html">bland </a>as <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/07/joining-automotive-society-with-boring.html">Honda </a>are, they are the right choice. Not to mention, I had an eight year Civic a decade back which gave me no troubles, ever. I believe in rewarding quality. Getting a test drive soon. <br />
<br />
Aiming for a city and highway AWD vehicle, my 'process of elimination':<br />
- I found the <b>Subaru Outback</b> larger than I want in the city, and a wee squirrelly at highway passing speeds<br />
- <b>Subaru Boxer</b> engines are... not dependable<br />
- the <b>Forester </b>has a more basic interior than the CRV<br />
- the<b> Mazda CX5</b> is the anti-Tardis<br />
- <b>Ford </b>is the only N American maker I would consider, but they have no cash deals... as N Americans love mortgaging their future<br />
- wife won't buy Korean, nor do I think they are cheaper enough to do so<br />
- <b>Nissan Rogue </b>is a bit cheaper, a bit less reliable, and will get me a bit less at resale, so no<br />
- <b>Mitsubishi Outlander </b>isn't cheaper enough to go with a fringe model<br />
- <b>Volkswagen Sportwagen </b>is smaller, not dependable, not AWD, and nearly as much<br />
- <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-03-20/toyota-pays-1-3-billion-for-defect-cover-up-statements/5332894">fuck <b>Toyota </b></a>, which are not good value besides<br />
- the <b>CRV </b>is nearly the biggest inside, has the best power:weight ratio, has nearly everything I want in the base AWD model, and is among the most fuel efficient<br />
<br />
Never mind the Thai branding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://futurecarrelease.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Brochure-2016-Honda-CRV-Facelift-Thailand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://futurecarrelease.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Brochure-2016-Honda-CRV-Facelift-Thailand.jpg" height="224" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-21680063598997129732015-08-11T14:02:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.766+09:00As there's no Legacy Wagon anymore<span style="font-family: inherit;">Seriously, fuck North Americans and their bloated dumbassed lifestyles. I was born here, but have lived in Montréal*, Tokyo, don't eat like them, drive like them, commute like them, vote like them, drink like them, dress as poorly as them, fuck like them!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gJ2np7R-Uwg" width="560"></iframe><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/07/joining-automotive-society-with-boring.html">I have</a> been <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/08/more-boring-crossovers-two-rows-not.html">trying </a>to find a <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/08/fuck-crossovers.html">new car</a>. There are hatchbacks, there are buses, and there are SUVs never taken to gravel, so much as 'off-road'. Almost nobody's selling mid-size wagons; I want a wagon damnit**, and am unwilling to spend for an Audi or Volvo, thank you very much. Nor will I buy a North American shit-box, nor Korean yet, nor Toyota for its lies. Making the list short. I do not even want to buy a car, and wouldn't have to in Tokyo, but North America fucking sucks, and sucks even harder without a car.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am left with these options, too many of them 'CUVs', just two letters away from what a Brit would yell. Why no CUV/SUV? Well, I know how to fucking drive, unlike the locals, and know something about the difference between a truck meant for hauling crap, with a high centre of balance, and a vehicle that's some pleasure to drive, and safer.</span><br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Volkswagon Golf Sportwagon Trendline, $29K</span></b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- just a bit small, no AWD, and as expensive as the rest, so... no.</span></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nissan Rogue S AWD, $29K</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Toyota RAV4 AWD LE, $31K </span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Honda CRV LX, $32K</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Mitsubishi Outlander ES AWC, $33K</b></span></span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><br /></b>
<b style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">Subaru Outback 2.5i, $35.5</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;">- this is the closest even if overbuilt to the cancelled Legacy Wagon, but $5K over the others?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;">- what's the point of the Forester? Little cheaper, narrower and shorter, but a higher centre of balance.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #222222;"><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;">I am unhappy with all of these. WTF?</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #222222;"><br /></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">*Technically in North America, but not entirely so...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">**With AWD, because we are a Nordic country, and nobody else can fecking drive. Not to mention a CUV/SUV without AWD/4WD is like a codpiece hiding an orchiectomy.</span>Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-31959358113991685442015-08-11T07:24:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.796+09:00Orwell, Toronto and ApostacyI had an Orwellian moment today, not of the '1984' variety. I've forgotten if it is in 'Burmese Days', 'Shooting an Elephant' or some other, but he describes two young British men on a night train during the Raj feeling-out each other's politics before finally secure enough to rage about their place in the injustices of Imperialism. My heart is not that heavy, but I have had that experience in Catholic schools, 'International Schools' in Tokyo, and as a resident of Toronto. Funny, the dogmatism of the latter is the strongest.<br />
<br />
Good god how I hate Toronto! A Torontonian who's not lived anywhere else will not hear of it. "Toronto is 'World Class'". 'Jesus wept...'<br />
<br />
I was at the Royal Ontario Museum with my son today, feeding and watering him in the café, and a French woman sat beside me with a daughter about the same age as my son: they introduced themselves to each other as they do, so we adults followed. Within a few minutes we both moved from our conversation about bilingual education of our children to the parochialism of Toronto. So refreshing, and confirms what I told my wife about coming back: "We will only make foreign friends, or Torontonians who've lived abroad."Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-44623864697209458732015-08-10T08:22:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.821+09:00Fuck the crossoversStill doing research on cars, for two adults and two in child seats, and will last until the oldest is maybe thirteen. Crossovers and SUVs are the N American default, ergo bloated and vulgar. Thing is, that sells, so modest wagons do not. There are very few under $30K CAD. What few there are, are often too close to hatchbacks.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">Nissan Versa Note SV $19K</b><br />
<br />
<b>Hyundai Elantra GT $21K cash</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white;">Ford Focus SE Hatch $22K</b><br />
<b style="background-color: white;"><br /></b>
<b>KIA Soul LX $22K</b><br />
<div>
</div>
<b style="background-color: white;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white;">KIA Forte 5 LX+ $22.5K</b><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Scion XB 4A $23K</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Mazda3 GX $25K</b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<b>KIA Rondo LX Value AT $25.5K</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><b>Subaru Impreza 2.0i 5-door AWD</b><b> $25.5K</b></span><br />
<br />
<b>Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback SE - $26K</b><br />
<br />
Scion iM?Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-68733309764794034282015-08-08T07:38:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.876+09:00More boring crossovers: two rows, not three<a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/07/joining-automotive-society-with-boring.html">Still staying under $35K CAD, paying in cash</a>. What I <i>need</i> is room for two adults and two children, for the next eight to ten years, reliable and good build quality for the price, and drives more like a car than a boat. AWD for our winters, cruise-control and a few other options. Have to get a fucking automatic for the wife. Here're the '<b>crossovers</b>' cash prices, all with AWD otherwise what's the point, automatic because the wife. Almost all the same price.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.greeleygazette.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DSC3238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.greeleygazette.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DSC3238.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<blockquote style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b style="background-color: yellow;">Nissan Rogue S AWD</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- excellent safety features</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: yellow;">- $29000</b></span></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<br />
<b style="background-color: white;">Honda CRV LX</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- decent engine power</span><br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21.2999992370605px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span></div>
</div>
<b style="background-color: white;">- $32500</b><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevX0IeAEWGo4VSdn-2YT5x_QQ0k-N4U16inaLIhpQshoa_GV_DRXwBgCo0tTHL0iHubBexOh38LMk9pXeGwNnMKcKoNWvaDKVJkVhXA5VOwSRDFRnNTtUPYkuU4IE985f9j9rUj2rSM_D/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevX0IeAEWGo4VSdn-2YT5x_QQ0k-N4U16inaLIhpQshoa_GV_DRXwBgCo0tTHL0iHubBexOh38LMk9pXeGwNnMKcKoNWvaDKVJkVhXA5VOwSRDFRnNTtUPYkuU4IE985f9j9rUj2rSM_D/s400/download.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Mitsubishi Outlander ES AWC</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- decent mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best transmission (6-speed auto)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
- decent engine power</div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
</div>
</div>
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $33200</b><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Kia Sorrento LX turbo AWD</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- third row seats option</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- decent mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best transmission (6-speed auto)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best engine (hp/torque)</span></div>
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $34500</b><br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white;">Subaru Forester 2.5i Convenience Package</b><br />
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- decent mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- excellent safety features</span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $35000</b></div>
<br />
I really want the <b>Subaru Outback 2.5i</b>, despite engine problems and its girth.<br />
- middling engine power<br />
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>- $35500</b></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
<b>Mazda CX5 GS AWD</b></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
- good engine</div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"></span><br />
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
<b>- $36700</b></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
<b>FORD EDGE SE AWD</b></div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
- good engine</div>
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"></span><br />
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
- <b>$37500 </b>cash, and no value for paying up front, because N American financing scam</div>
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div id="ecxoldcontent" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<b>Toyota Venza AWD</b><br />
- well, Toyota lies about flaws as much as GM and Chrysler...<br />
- and still carries the Toyota price premium...<br />
<b>- $38300</b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-66812559532730882572015-08-05T00:13:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.870+09:00Perfect Randonneur - All-Roads BikeI've got my sweet <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/06/lemond-croix-de-fer-credit-card-tourer.html">steel road bike</a>, and an <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-tour-mutt.html">overbuilt touring bike</a> used for kid-hauling. I even have a <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2013/03/gear-inches-weights.html">fixed-gear commuter</a>, but 'n<a href="http://www.bikeforums.net/fifty-plus-50/822639-what-does-n-1-rule-mean.html">+1</a>' and all.<br />
<br />
It's not going to happen very soon, but I am wanting to build another bike better for the type of riding I do, and better for when I start brevets: <b>a low-trail 700c light-tubed steel frame that takes fenders and 35mm tires</b>, though I'll more often run 32mm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cycleexifcom.c.presscdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/boulder-bicycle-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cycleexifcom.c.presscdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/boulder-bicycle-1.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
- lets me carry a front rack bag without affecting handling much<br />
- light tubes and wider tire soak up road noise<br />
<br />
The first issue is that I'll have to build it up on my own, because although the <a href="http://allcitycycles.com/bikes/space_horse">All City Space Horse </a>is close, heavier tubing than I need, bigger chainrings and not low-trail.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'd have to go with a<b> <a href="http://lovelybike.blogspot.ca/2012/08/weekend-with-rawland-nordavinden.html">Rawland Nordavingen</a></b> if available again, or spend more for the TIG version of a <b><a href="http://boulderbicycle.bike/Boulder-Bicycle-Rando-Overview-and-Pricing.html">Boulder Brevet</a>. </b> VO Polyvalent's interesting, but too heavily built. Not picky about the type of brakes, so long as they work: no low-profile cantis on the fork.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.keilercycles.com/keilercycles.com/image/cache/data/producten/Rawland/Nordavinden_01-500x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.keilercycles.com/keilercycles.com/image/cache/data/producten/Rawland/Nordavinden_01-500x500.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Definitely go with <b>Retroshifts</b>. Easier shfting than bar-cons, with all the reliability.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ReCLxplMgPA/T0q-pkIZXEI/AAAAAAAAA74/vEAyowItvCk/s1600/RS1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ReCLxplMgPA/T0q-pkIZXEI/AAAAAAAAA74/vEAyowItvCk/s1600/RS1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://store.somafab.com/suoxcoplrocr.html">Sugino OX801d </a>compact+ crank</b>: 30/46, paired to a 10-speed 11-30 cassette.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-3773699254952_2268_53103411" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-3773699254952_2268_53103411" height="326" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Minimal front and rear <b>stainless racks</b>, whether VO or Nitto. <br />
<br />
One of the new weatherproof <b>Brooks</b>, if long-term reviews play out, otherwise another Swallow.<br />
<br />
Most of the rest will be Shimano and other Japanese components, as I travel there often enough and can get the parts for half the price there than Canada. <b>Shimano derailleurs</b>: Tiagra'd be good enough, Ultegra'd be sweet, so 105 is the compromise. Panasonic tires with gumwalls?<br />
<br />
Fenders VO or Japanese, and <a href="http://www.jitensha.com/eng/inujirushibags.html">front bag</a> from there also.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/05/bottle-cages-steel-king-iris.html">King Iris cages only!</a></b><br />
<br />
This would never use panniers, but I may want to carry things on the top of a minimal rear rack occasionally, as well as more often in the front bag. For a bit more luggage, I'd hope to add another boss lower on the downtube, to lower the bottle cage and fit a <b>frame bag.</b> I'd probably not add bosses under the downtube, as bottles get mucked-up there even with the longest of fenders.<br />
<br />
I really like the idea of the<b><a href="http://www.blackburndesign.com/cages/outpost-cargo-cage.html#.VcDVx_lVhBc"> Blackburn Outpost Cargo Cage </a></b>(better than Salsa's original) but can't see where it would work on this bike.Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-34345951407244177932015-07-29T12:24:00.003+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.800+09:00Joining Automotive Society with a boring 'crossover' - three rows smallNever imagine Toronto's anyting but a Midwestern city: a family needs a car to do anything at all. So... I'll be joining the bastards, but with ONE car only. I am buying a new car, in cash. Yes, I can buy someone else' problems cheaper, but I just don't want to. I am staying under $35K CAD, paying in cash.<br />
<br />
What I <i>need</i> is room for two adults and two children, for the next eight to ten years, reliable and good build quality for the price, and drives more like a car than a boat. What I <i>want </i>is a third-row seat no matter how small, sliding rear doors, AWD for our winters, cruise-control and a few other options. Have to get a fucking automatic for the wife.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
Here're the '<b>crossovers</b>' prices*, all with AWD otherwise what's the point, best to worst value:<br />
<div id="ecxoldcontent" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Kia Sorrento LX turbo AWD</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- third row seats option</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- decent mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best transmission (6-speed auto)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best engine (hp/torque)</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $32500</b></div>
<blockquote style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevX0IeAEWGo4VSdn-2YT5x_QQ0k-N4U16inaLIhpQshoa_GV_DRXwBgCo0tTHL0iHubBexOh38LMk9pXeGwNnMKcKoNWvaDKVJkVhXA5VOwSRDFRnNTtUPYkuU4IE985f9j9rUj2rSM_D/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevX0IeAEWGo4VSdn-2YT5x_QQ0k-N4U16inaLIhpQshoa_GV_DRXwBgCo0tTHL0iHubBexOh38LMk9pXeGwNnMKcKoNWvaDKVJkVhXA5VOwSRDFRnNTtUPYkuU4IE985f9j9rUj2rSM_D/s400/download.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Mitsubishi Outlander SE AWC</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- third row seats option</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- AWD</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- decent mileage</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best transmission (6-speed auto)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- best engine (hp/torque)</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $32000/37000**</b></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.greeleygazette.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DSC3238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.greeleygazette.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DSC3238.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<blockquote style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
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<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><b>Nissan Rogue SV AWD</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- third row seats option</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- AWD</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- best mileage</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- excellent safety features</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>- $31500</b></span></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
Here're the '<b>small minivan</b>' prices, best to worst value:<br />
<blockquote style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
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<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Kia Rondo LX AT 7-seat</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- third row seats</span><span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"> </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- no sliding rear doors</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- no AWD option</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- not CVT transmission (yeah!)</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<b style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- $22300</b><span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mazda 5</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- third row seats</span></span><span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"> </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- sliding rear doors</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- no AWD option</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- CVT transmission (feh)</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">- mediocre safety features</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">
<b style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- $26300</span></b></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
For 'crossoers; it is <a href="http://carsort.com/compare/Mitsubishi-Outlander-SE-vs-Nissan-Rogue">between the Outlander and the Rogue</a>, as I just cannot yet sign on with Korean cars at the same price, much less convince the J-wife. However, if we cheap out, too bad about losing the sliding doors, but the Rondo's much better value than the Mazda5!<br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">*</span><span style="line-height: normal;">AWD/third-row option included if noted. </span><span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">Prices right off Canadian websites, taxes, fees and rebates included. Mileage may vary.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 21.2999992370605px;">**$32K for 2015, $37 for 2016</span></div>
Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-26855556432740223492015-07-28T06:01:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.783+09:00'The Beast': breeder-touring/monster-cross bicycle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWyWnH8vF8DZtO-iOL0jodOY4kE3jojhXClooCODOHAuOw0Ee8FQHt-AtLV3renw9jC8qlgIcpiXrL34zUT4iPZoeqB1VWxyTAwdkq9iAvSizc-ysAPJgB5gJ5RARPl_Zm2oYyAGV2GXh/s1600/beast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWyWnH8vF8DZtO-iOL0jodOY4kE3jojhXClooCODOHAuOw0Ee8FQHt-AtLV3renw9jC8qlgIcpiXrL34zUT4iPZoeqB1VWxyTAwdkq9iAvSizc-ysAPJgB5gJ5RARPl_Zm2oYyAGV2GXh/s640/beast.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 17.5636348724365px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It lives! My Franken-bike creation: breeder-touring/monster-cross. AKA, 'The Beast'. </span></span>The final iteration? Proves the truth of evolution: '<a href="http://articles.latimes.com/1985-05-11/local/me-9726_1_darwinism">survival of the most adequate</a>'. That's a <a href="http://www.blackburndesign.com/copilot/limo.html#.Vbab7PlVhBc">Blackburn Co-Pilot Limo</a> child seat. The recline's nice, as the young tend to pass out in motion. Previous write-up follows.<br />
<br />
<i>A new build up from new and old parts. It's my take on the '<a href="http://gravelgrindernews.com/tag/gravel-mutt/">gravel mutt</a>' idea: build a wide-tired rough roads bike as reasonably as possible from your parts bin. Between the three bikes I have, I've now rebuilt almost every section of a bike, a few times.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The bike's been useful, if heavy. My wife gave me the money for it as a present in return for her engagement ring: Japanese custom is to give half-back gifts, yeah! <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2011/01/retro-cross-retro-grinder.html">It's been</a> a fixed/free, singlespeed and a 1x5. I learned enough from it about fixed/free to buy and build a lighter <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2011/08/all-weathers-fixed-gear-in-japan.html">fixed/fixed</a>, and that singlespeed is pointless. As I have a paved- 'road bike'; this will be my unpaved road, and winter conditions bike.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>It's not as economical as 'off the peg', but it is more economical than letting what I had go to waste, besides I wanted to keep the bike my wife bought for me, in some identifiable form. A friend told me a Canadian Air Force story: you can crash and destroy every part of a plane but it's identification plate, and there's money in the budget to rebuild it, but there's no money in the budget to buy a new plane, even if that comes cheaper.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Since all that is left original is the following, it's a '<b>tour-mutt'</b>:</i><br />
<i>-<b> touring frame and fork</b></i><br />
<i>- Brooks B17N saddle, seatpost and clamp</i><br />
<i>- headset and stem</i><br />
<i>- Tektro brake levers and rear low-profile cantilever brake </i><br />
<i>- Shimano pedals, one side clipless and one flats</i><br />
<i>- budget racks</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I repurposed:</i><br />
<i>- the triple crank from my <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/06/lemond-croix-de-fer-credit-card-tourer.html">Lemond Croix de Fer, and its 26t chainring</a></i><br />
<i>- its Shimano 105 triple derailleur (used now as wide-range double)</i><br />
<i>- a 44t chainring from my fixed/fixed</i><br />
<i>- 37mm Schwalbe Silento tires from my wife's bike (gave her better rolling ones for pavement)</i><br />
<i>- parts to make a Shimano 105, 10-speed, 12-27 cassette </i><br />
<i>- downtube cable-stops</i><br />
<div>
<i>- Arundel Stainless bottle cages</i></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>I bought for it... too much:</i><br />
<i>- Nitto Noodle Bar</i><br />
<i>- tektro cross bar-top levers</i><br />
<i>- a high-profile cantilever brake for better stopping power, front </i><br />
<i>- Dia-Compe bar-cons</i><br />
<i>- Tiagra rear derailleur (without indexed shifting you can mix 9 speed rear and 10 speed front derailleurs)</i><br />
<i>- 10-speed Shimano 105 chain</i><br />
<i>- Mavic A319 rim, Deore hub wheelset </i><br />
<i>- SKS P50, 700x54mm 'chromoplastic' fenders</i><br />
<i>- cables and housing as needed</i><br />
<i>- orange cotton bar-tape, shellacked</i><br />
<i>- a 50t cross chainring guard</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The build was epic in its delayed pace, back-tracking, reverse-engineering, and international sourcing (Canada, Japan and the US). I could nearly start a business in bikes, if only there were any living in aught but schilling carbon '<a href="http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.ca/2008/06/one-bike-too-many-from-buddha-to.html">dentist bike</a>s'.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>It will see use on local unpaved roads, and winter conditions, and I hope further afield. Maybe even to pull kids in a trailer, as the cross brake levers begin to make it safer to do so. There's room in that fork of 55mm: I could run 47mm tires for very poor road, so long as I push the fenders higher.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>But bike wants are "<span class="st"><a href="http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/">n+1 , where n is the number of bikes currently owned.</a>" +1 is a 29+ semi-fat, like the <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/krampus_ops">Surly</a> <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/krampus_ops">Krampus, or 'Ops' version</a>.</span></i>Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-22054202137359120042015-07-25T12:09:00.003+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.770+09:00Smart Products Aren't<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--YSxibyV2--/h9tn5rd26o2iwxfj2vaz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--YSxibyV2--/h9tn5rd26o2iwxfj2vaz.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Having trouble with an LG Smart TV: cannot update the built in browser to cooperate as it used to with Google Drive.<br />
<br />
Short version: 'Smart' products are not built by or for operating systems like Windows, Android or Apple. They have limited functionality out of the box, and are far harder to optimize than a phone, tablet or computer, or they are impossible to, and the interfaces blow. Better you run your online media from the appropriate device by cable/Wifi-dongle to a dumb TV. This is the experience with my TV, and I have read it similar for cars and other consumer products.<br />
<br />
LG customer service has been useless, as all corporations' are. In short, I have discovered we can't load any browsers or apps of our own choice, nor update the ones we have. Who knows if any update automatically?Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-82839088858776155102015-07-21T00:24:00.002+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.896+09:00Mazda RX7, because JapanI was<a href="http://jalopnik.com/this-old-mazda-rx-7-race-car-is-a-buzzy-track-monster-1719001475"> so excited to see this</a> on my friend's street the other day. More excited his (married) friend knew what it was. Why didn't I know girls like that a couple decades back?*<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtlwc39WIyKUDQuiEQhZTOsLtN0r2olefJrG1QMBVqUpI1iSypgbO_AzolgP40TwHfIakD2evMFU_2IEC8JOnM75qcQTmUAG7zbdWdV3hJ5kmntm-AkQBVSXhqoQBLqInhtN1OLdqf5MN/s1600/GetAttachment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtlwc39WIyKUDQuiEQhZTOsLtN0r2olefJrG1QMBVqUpI1iSypgbO_AzolgP40TwHfIakD2evMFU_2IEC8JOnM75qcQTmUAG7zbdWdV3hJ5kmntm-AkQBVSXhqoQBLqInhtN1OLdqf5MN/s400/GetAttachment.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is a cool thing that'll make sense to anyone with a passing knowledge of Japanese shaken/road-tax byzantine rules: the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_RX-7">Wankel engine was to get higher power</a> while paying only for a lower displacement. Do you think engineers were allowed to use something as mental, and self-destructive, as a Wankel engine for a better reason?<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="353" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TXHn8mYBV3I" width="636"></iframe><br />
<br />
Behold the spinning Dorito.<br />
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<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fc/Wankel_Cycle_anim_en.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fc/Wankel_Cycle_anim_en.gif" /></a></div>
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*Earlier in the evening I not only discovered she was another Montréal Anglo refugee, and was bored to death in Toronto, but when I asked the room what the typical Toronto date question was that showed how boring and materialistic people are, she knew: "What do you do?"</div>
<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-727925691784055792015-07-19T11:49:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.885+09:00Circuses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/GU_front_gifs/2013/11/27/1385574427039/The-design-for-Qatars-Al--010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/GU_front_gifs/2013/11/27/1385574427039/The-design-for-Qatars-Al--010.jpg" height="384" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Young lady, I'm afraid you forgot your knickers. And the hue of your cervix... That can't be healthy.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.citylab.com/design/2015/07/tokyo-scraps-its-intergalactic-olympic-stadium/398843/">This link</a> in case you are unaware of the '<a href="http://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2012/12/02/people/japans-whistle-blower-supreme-speaks-out/">perverted golf-club</a>' of <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2013/09/tokyo-2020-olympics-this-town-was-made.html">Tokyo's Olympic bid.</a><br />
<br />
I consider myself a native or two cities, Toronto and Tokyo, although the <i>pur laine</i> of the latter wouldn't, and I have neither pride in nor love of Toronto. I have spent not less than five years in each, which was more than enough in the Middle Ages to be a citizen! Funny, I spent about four years in total in Montréal, which I prefer to the other two, though neither I nor <i>franco-montréalais </i>would consider me a citizen. The ethnolingual parsing of these some other time.<br />
<br />
We are in the middle of the Pan-American Games in Toronto! I care no more than you do! Torontonians care little more than I do. This is a good thing! A great deal of money's been wasted, but a great deal less than for the Olympics (1:4 compared to London), which the usual suspects (developers-politicians-criminals) have been after getting for years. <a href="http://www.blogto.com/sports_play/2015/05/huge_numbers_of_pan_am_games_tickets_remain_unsold/">It's been so unpopular</a>, now they won't!<br />
<br />
Poor Tokyo.Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-12373406433664186882015-06-26T06:02:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.740+09:00Fuck Toronto<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;">In case you didn't know, there is an epidemic of assholes in Toronto. Never go. It is a boring city of assholes, paying Manhattan prices to live in a Hoboken.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;">For all the good it will do, I sent this to Mississauga transit, with the driver's ID.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;">"Your driver went past the XXXXXXX Stop, even though the 'Stop Requested' light was on, and then refused to stop at any point before XXXXXXXX Station, because, he said, "I'm not allowed." He did this out of spite, even though I asked him politely the first time.
Half of your drivers are jackasses like this one, and/or bad drivers. Since no transit in the GTA is to the standard of a civilized European or East Asian city of my experience, put in cameras to monitor them. I suppose nobody cares in the GTA though, only the poor use transit is the attitude.
Fuck your town."</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #373e4d; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Didn't bother me much. Asshat works all summer; tomorrow is my last day until September.</span>Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-11189240123175140482015-05-09T06:56:00.002+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.736+09:00"Are there no true Scotsmen in the house?"<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Those there English gerrunts are tramplin' all over my God-given rights! They've used me and my pals most direly. And we are in need of a wee bit of assistance!</i></blockquote>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7PPbVCfAu5E" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/politics/general-election-2015">Fuck </a>the South.<br />
<div class="ProfileTweet-text js-tweet-text u-dir" data-aria-label-part="0" dir="ltr" lang="en">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en">
<i>the City must be very pleased ... (spits)</i></div>
<i>— Thom Yorke (@thomyorke)</i></blockquote>
I'm no Scot, and barely English,* but I do loathe conservatives and the cattle, strivers and <i>rentiers**</i> who hand them the till. Should any British wish to understand what has happened, I suggest they study <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2011/05/i-quebecois-separatist.html">Québec </a>provincial <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2012/01/whither-quebec.html">politics </a>to understand Scottish national.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/5382-history-doesn-t-repeat-itself-but-it-does-rhyme">History </a>doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme.</i></blockquote>
Labour/Liberal, Conservative in either country? "A pox on both."<br />
<br />
<br />
*Half West Yorkshire, once-removed<br />
**AKA their voters in the 90th, 9th and 1st percentiles.</div>
Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-82962173692106334072015-05-04T04:11:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.902+09:00Unlovable Toronto; Misanthrope MarathonNobody loves this place, unless in ignorance. The reasons are legion, but I'll give an example to elucidate the whole.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com/en/images/stwmmap14_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com/en/images/stwmmap14_lg.jpg" height="288" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I want to do<a href="http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com/en/index.htm"> this race in October</a>, but I cannot easily get to it, and I live on a subway station! What the everlasting fuck?! The everlasting fuck in Toronto: fuck you if you don't have a car.<br />
<br />
Here's the deal:<br />
- all athletic events like this start early on Sundays*<br />
- the trains <i>do not start until nine</i> in Toronto on Sundays!<br />
- you can take buses before then, infrequently, and tardily<br />
- but these <i>will be diverted </i>off the major streets, their normal routes<br />
- instead of forty minutes to get there, over ninety<br />
- I could cycle there far faster, which is<i> probably something I don't want to do the day I'm going to run 42km</i><br />
- did I mention one has to pick up the bib the day before the race at every running event in Canada (not so in Japan, but their mail works) and the location is far from any subway station?<br />
- and nearly $100 CAD<br />
<br />
There are no end of solutions. which can only not occur to <i>an entire organization that has cars on the mind. </i>Fuck Toronto.<br />
<br />
I may just do my <b>Misanthrope Marathon</b>: run on my own between two subways stations, at my convenience.<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="600" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m55!1m12!1m3!1d92320.6665041759!2d-79.48358914134839!3d43.68933038073631!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m40!1i0!3e1!4m3!3m2!1d43.7442566!2d-79.40631859999999!4m3!3m2!1d43.7244648!2d-79.3500785!4m5!1s0x89d4ce9da4ae38dd%3A0x7357c41dc661df03!2sVictoria+Park+Station%2C+Toronto%2C+ON!3m2!1d43.694317999999996!2d-79.28841299999999!4m5!1s0x89d4cea9be94d7d9%3A0xe91758b37a52e2c3!2sBalmy+Beach+Club%2C+Toronto%2C+ON!3m2!1d43.670038999999996!2d-79.28641499999999!4m5!1s0x882b3529a3ba5f8b%3A0x44ed3f1b9f894e64!2sQueens+Quay+W%2C+Toronto%2C+ON!3m2!1d43.6386533!2d-79.3877998!4m5!1s0x882b36759b97ac23%3A0x369affe02bf904e5!2sHumber+Bay+Bridge%2C+Martin+Goodman+Trail%2C+Toronto%2C+ON!3m2!1d43.631727!2d-79.471321!4m5!1s0x882b37be60ab25f3%3A0x809051ced84edc65!2sKipling+Go+Station%2C+Saint+Albans+Road%2C+ON!3m2!1d43.638490999999995!2d-79.535401!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1430680226196" style="border: 0;" width="650"></iframe><br />
<br />
*I just <a href="http://paddlethedon.ca/">missed one today</a>, because it would take as long to get to it on a Sunday morning as it would take to get from <i>Tokyo station to Nagoya</i>.<br />
<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-41985390457620045582015-04-04T23:30:00.003+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.814+09:00My Facebook: equal friend to blocked ratioMine's nearly equal. Hmm... If I were to look at it as an extrovert and optimist, I'd think I had a problem. I am neither of <i>those things</i>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/moms-who-drink-and-swear/files/2013/11/stupid-people.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.chicagonow.com/moms-who-drink-and-swear/files/2013/11/stupid-people.jpg" height="382" width="400" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7G_zSos8w_I" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Since this is Easter, and speaking of how much humanity sucks, let me retell the story. There was a guy who came and said "<a href="https://youtu.be/N_yJFLvmjJY">be excellent to each other</a>", so they killed him, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_the_Apostle">some self-hating </a>Jew* with serious issues with women reworked the story to turn the guy's movement into a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church">plutocratic death cult</a> of pederasts, but without Saul of Tarsus we'd have never heard of the guy. Fuck people.<br />
<br />
*The Jewish part I'm fine with.Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-58642336737266159542015-03-27T04:50:00.001+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.857+09:00Gravel Bikes (modern touring) Under $2KI built up my own <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-tour-mutt.html">gravel mutt </a>from parts I had around, but it's too much the touring bike for long gravel road rides or modern unpaved touring: <b>camping gear is now lighter, so too should be the bike</b>. <br />
<br />
<b>Selection rationals:</b><br />
- Off-the-peg, because one's own build is too spendy.<br />
- Canti brakes are derided, but they are still easier to maintain, allow you to run a more compliant fork and allow plenty of tire clearance. <br />
- Disks are the fashion now, but there isn't the need if you set up your cantis right, and use wide-profile like the <a href="http://www.tektro.com/_english/01_products/01_prodetail.php?pid=5&sortname=Brake&sort=1&fid=2">CR720</a>. I will not suggest hydraulic brakes for use far afield.<br />
- Steel frame for best value by pricepoint.<br />
- Shimano Tiagra quality grouppo, or better.<br />
- Geometry more slack than road, but less than touring.<br />
- Bar-end shifters or brifters? There's an argument for both. Certainly not on the down-tube. <a href="http://www.gevenalle.com/store/products/shifters/"> Gevenalle Retro-Shifters </a>might be best, but never come standard.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gevenalle.com/wp-content/gallery/nexgenpictures1/2014-05-04-12-51-24-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.gevenalle.com/wp-content/gallery/nexgenpictures1/2014-05-04-12-51-24-large.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's my list of the bikes.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Cantilever Brakes</u></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://allcitycycles.com/bikes/space_horse">All City Space Horse</a></b> is the closest to a one-bike to rule them all, but 2015 Tiagra chainrings are ugly!<br />
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<a href="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/cross_check">Surly Cross Check</a></b> is nearly the same thing, but has a bottom-bracket higher than ideal.<br />
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<a href="http://surlybikes.com//uploads/bikes/cross-check-15-orange_sv_930x390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://surlybikes.com//uploads/bikes/cross-check-15-orange_sv_930x390.jpg" height="166" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Disc Brakes</u></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-heritage-steel-clubman-disc">Raleigh Clubman Disc: </a></b>not a real gravel-bike, but works in a pinch and a hell of a price-point. Best all-around bike with discs? That ugly chainring again!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4916/xlarge/RA15_Clubman_Blue.jpg?1409078398" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4916/xlarge/RA15_Clubman_Blue.jpg?1409078398" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-gravel-tamland-tamland-1">Raleigh Tamland 1</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4917/xlarge/RA15_Tamland-One_Black.jpg?1409078388" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4917/xlarge/RA15_Tamland-One_Black.jpg?1409078388" height="255" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/vaya/2015_vaya_2">Salsa Vaya 2</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://salsacycles.com/files/bikes/vaya_2_980x550px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://salsacycles.com/files/bikes/vaya_2_980x550px.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><a href="http://www.mec.ca/product/5038-845/mec-cote-bicycle-unisex/?Ns=p_max_sale_price%7C1&h=10+20027+50013&f=10+20027+50013">MEC CÔTE</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5038-845/generated/5038-845_ORG17_view1_720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5038-845/generated/5038-845_ORG17_view1_720x720.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<b style="background-color: yellow; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.konaworld.com/rove.cfm">Kona Rove</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.konaworld.com/images/bikes/main/rove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.konaworld.com/images/bikes/main/rove.jpg" height="238" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-72524660708430998282015-03-22T09:19:00.003+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.882+09:00$1000 steel road bikesThat's the cheapest you can go for a geared bike that rides decently. Any aluminum or carbon frames or forks at this price point are as heavy as steel, and ride more poorly. As do disk brakes, so none are included here. No triple-ring cranks here either: unergonomic. These make a great starter and winter road bike: commuting, light touring, the lot.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-heritage-steel-grand-sport"><b>Raleigh Grand Sport</b></a><br />
- has lots of room for tires and fenders<br />
- won't require parts-swapping<br />
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<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4915/xlarge/RA15_Grand-Sport_Orange.jpg?1409078407" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4915/xlarge/RA15_Grand-Sport_Orange.jpg?1409078407" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.bianchiusa.com/bikes/road/all-road/lupo/">Bianch Lupo</a></b><br />
- a bit more rugged than the Grand Sport, and maybe heavier<br />
- more room for tires and fenders<br />
- you'll want to switch for wider-profile canti-brakes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoVjGTfKX25Tp6lH9fK6wAm1X3I4HC9cIsrnvz6fF2jxvs6S5MP1bOhBFRanuRotdrtSFGYizjQ26E5Pvm4wpOxKUBX1_k5kq4vT7hzqYikF70IEG0x5EfXzeHCj379xut8HGKdTx_SGQw/s1600/2015+Bianchi+Lupo+cyclocross_adventure.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoVjGTfKX25Tp6lH9fK6wAm1X3I4HC9cIsrnvz6fF2jxvs6S5MP1bOhBFRanuRotdrtSFGYizjQ26E5Pvm4wpOxKUBX1_k5kq4vT7hzqYikF70IEG0x5EfXzeHCj379xut8HGKdTx_SGQw/s1600/2015+Bianchi+Lupo+cyclocross_adventure.JPG" height="432" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.konaworld.com/honky_tonk.cfm">Kona H</a>onky Tonk</b><br />
- 28mm tires and fenders will only just fit<br />
- a few better bits in the drive-train<br />
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<a href="http://www.konaworld.com/images/bikes/main/honky_tonk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.konaworld.com/images/bikes/main/honky_tonk.jpg" height="388" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8528686231765021097.post-2043805676141564702015-03-16T11:30:00.000+09:002016-01-27T03:47:53.755+09:00Real road bikesFriend of mine has killed his old touring bike, though hasn't yet come to terms with it. He's looking at a cost of switching out the worn parts that approaches replacement value, and he never much liked the bike he has. This post is to convince him to go new.<br />
<br />
He's not racing, and wants a bike to commute on and do long days, to multiple days, which means baggage. I am trying to convince him he no longer needs a bulked out touring bike, as camping gear now weighs much less, and he's liable to use hotels more than he did in his youth. So, for his benefit and any readers looking for an all-purpose road bike for any road conditions, here's my suggestions to him. There's a lot of steel here, Tiagra Grouppo, because this is where he's going to get his money's worth. <span style="background-color: yellow;">My recommendations.</span><br />
<br />
Note that all of the double-ring cranks need adjustment of the gearing: IRD Triplizer or Shimano's new middle-rings on road-triples; triple-rings have a q-factor too wide.<br />
<br />
I'd go for the<b style="background-color: yellow;"> </b><a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-heritage-steel-record-ace"><b style="background-color: yellow;">Raleigh Record Ace</b> </a>with long-reach calipers, but really want the<a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-heritage-steel-grand-prix"><b style="background-color: yellow;"> Grand Prix</b></a> with the Ritchey frame for under $2K. <a href="http://hanlonsrzr.blogspot.ca/2015/03/damn-raleigh-grand-prix-is-my-new-n1s-1.html">Outstanding</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4909/xlarge/RA15_Record-Ace_DkGreen.jpg?1409078461" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4909/xlarge/RA15_Record-Ace_DkGreen.jpg?1409078461" height="408" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4910/xlarge/RA15_Grand-Prix_SteelBlue.jpg?1409078451" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4910/xlarge/RA15_Grand-Prix_SteelBlue.jpg?1409078451" height="408" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b>Surly Cross Check</b><br />
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</div>
<a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/cross_check">Does everything</a> a touring bike can do, has been used as a versatile bike for over a decade with much success by many. Lots of room for bigger tires and fenders, braze-ons and the like. 30-118", 2x10, bar-cons, cantis, 32 spoke wheels. BB a bit high for touring.<br />
<br />
<b>Surly Straggler</b><br />
<a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/straggler">Disc-brake </a>version of the above, with brifters.<br />
<br />
<b>Surly Long Haul Trucker and Disc Trucker</b><br />
As above,<a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/disc_trucker"> overbuilt</a> for <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/long_haul_trucker">today's touring,</a> more cumbersome and slack-angled, triple-ringed, better BB drop.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">All City Space Horse</b><br />
<a href="http://allcitycycles.com/bikes/space_horse">Slightly better frame</a> than the Cross Check, and with brifters, but otherwise similar, but a lower BB. All City Macho Man and disc version have the usual cyclocross issue for touring: high BB.<br />
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<a href="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://allcitycycles.com/images/bikes/SpaceHorseMain.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Trek 520 and disc version</b><br />
<a href="http://www.trekbikes.com/ca/en/bikes/road/touring/520/520/#">Rather a lot </a>like<a href="http://www.trekbikes.com/ca/en/bikes/road/touring/520/520_disc/#"> the Long</a> Haul Truckers.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">MEC CÔTE</b><a href="http://www.mec.ca/product/5038-845/mec-cote-bicycle-unisex/?Ns=p_max_sale_price%7C1&h=10+20027+50013&f=10+20027+50013">This is a neat choice</a>, if you are looking at a lot of gravel roads.<br />
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<a href="http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5038-845/generated/5038-845_ORG17_view1_720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5038-845/generated/5038-845_ORG17_view1_720x720.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
<b style="background-color: yellow;">Raleigh Clubman Disc</b><br />
<div>
<a href="http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-heritage-steel-clubman-disc">Best value disc option here, </a>I think. Not my thing, but he wants them. This is also the cheapest bike here! $1000 USD.</div>
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<a href="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4916/xlarge/RA15_Clubman_Blue.jpg?1409078398" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bikemastertool.com/media/bikes/4916/xlarge/RA15_Clubman_Blue.jpg?1409078398" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ἀντισθένηςhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199983680204710885noreply@blogger.com0