By Dave, on August 9, 2010, 2:45 pm Hanna, AB T0J, Canada Cycling is hard work. Constantly straining your muscles and pushing yourself to the limit brings on major fatigue at the end of the day, and having a proper way to rest is essential. One of the dilemmas I faced while preparing for the tour was to find the right mattress pad that fit my budget, comfort level, and weight limitations. After some extensive searching, I chose the Exped SynMat 7 Deluxe Mattress:  Comparison of the 3 Available Models The mat has been around in various forms since 2006 – and received an innards reworking in 2008 based on customer response winning multiple awards from well known periodicals based on its design and overall value. I’ve got the 2008+ model and couldn’t be happier. They’ve improved some of the stability of the cells and added an internal pump to inflate the unit in short order without having to rely on the old clunky stuff sack integrated inflation system. Size:Weighing in at 877 grams (<2lbs) , the unit has a length almost 6.5 feet to satisfy the needs of most average humans and an extra wide width of just over 2 feet for those who like to sleep on their sides (70% of population) – fetal position like, as opposed to on their back (20% of population) or stomach (10%). Packed tightly in its included stuff sack it measures 11″ x 6″, small enough to fit inside my Ortlieb Rack Pack along with my Sleeping Bag, Pillow, Tent, and bicycle spare parts kit with ease. I noticed that other sleeping pads from competitor Therma-rest were unable to fold to this small space, forcing one to leave the mat outside while riding potentially becoming dirty, wet from weather conditions. Construction: A closeup of the Inlfation Pump The two-toned laminated polyester fabric is durable, airtight and humidity resistant. The shell’s top surface (Orange) provides excellent slip resistance and comfort next to the skin. I found at first it felt velvet like and didn’t cause any abrasions on my skin even when sleeping on the mat bare without a sleeping bag. The bottom-side offers a grey colour and a much smoother texture. Both sides should they become moist with sweat, condensation, or liquids dry quickly after a few short minutes in open air yet have the downside of collecting stains from dirt (whether being on the tent floor or from a dirty sweaty-haven’t-showered-in-4-days cyclist). I also found that it collects quite an odour, hard to place, but surely rank none the less. The bottom side contains two valves for inflation and deflation with high quality rigid caps. Internally, 150 g/qm of synthetic microfiber fill is placed in the baffles, which seem to be individually partitioned making sure it doesn’t all collect in one cell. Exped was nice enough to include a repair kit containing glue and a few spare patches should the unit get punctured, something I’ve yet to do even though I’ve camped in some not so recommended spots like thorn bushes, and spots littered with twigs and stumps. Repairing a hole would be similar to repairing a punctured tire. Setup: Inflating the unit using the included hand guides Inflation of the unit is fairly straight forward. Remove the unit from the stuff sack,and lay out flat plugging the deflate hole, and opening the inflate valve. With two hands, simply place them over the hand guide on the corner of the unit covering the inflate valve while depressing. A slow pace with steady movements seems to inflate the unit in about 80 depressions or about a minute. While this can be a pain at the end of the touring cyclists day, the results are worth it. The unit inflates to a firm sleeping platform offering 7 cm (2.8 inches) of protection from the ground below. Deflation of the unit was frustrating the first few times but once I got into the routine of purging as much air as possible from the mattress before folding it into thirds to roll up turned the process into less of a pain and could be accomplished in under a minute. It’s easy to get back into the stuff sack, which can also double as a pillow, and can attach to the mattress with its included loops on one end.  ▶
YouTube - Brief video showing the inflation of the mattress.
Usage:Sleeping on the unit is wonderful. Making sure one keeps the pump end at the foot of their tent as opposed to close to their head will ensure sound operation, as I noticed the unit ‘wheezes’ every once in a while, likely due to a laziness in setup not closing the valve properly. I left the mattress inflated for 4 days and on day 3 it needed a top-up shot of air to become firm once again.When kneeling, I could feel artifacts under the mattress, but felt nothing while sleeping on my side, stomach or back, often thrashing around in my sleep. I’ve experienced no back, arm, or shoulder pains from using the mattress in over 100 days of usage and have yet to feel cold in the morning even though the actual tent floor was fairly chilly in freezing conditions thanks to the units insulating R Value of 4.9 which is claimed to be good down to -17 celsius. I doubt I’ll be touring in these conditions, but it’s good to know should a freak storm may its way over to where I am sleeping. Conclusion:Other than the fact the unit carries a stink after repeat usage and the wheezing sound that sometimes caused frustration, I think this pad is a real winner for those backpacking, cycle touring, or just looking to have a lightweight addition to their 4 season camping gear arsenal While it’s price tag comes in a bit heftier than other models, the small size, excellent insulation properties and wide footprint offsets the cost and ensures that one is able to have a consistent sleeping experience day after day. Should the unit fail in service I will update this review and provide details. For those who are looking for a smaller unit, Exped also offers a model 6″ shorter in length and width, and for those who wish a thicker sleeping pad, a 9cm thick version is also available, at a higher cost, and wight, although changing the insulating R value to a whopping 6.0. Its a great alternative to their higher priced models which have similar sizing, construction and weight, yet forgo the synthetic fill for down, and I’d recommend anyone who’s looking for a compact mattress to suit their needs invest in the Exped SynMat. If you’ve liked this review, and wish to purchase, try using the link below, and assist me in getting around the world on your bicycle and send me your comments on how the mattress treated you!
By Dave, on May 8, 2010, 11:08 am Prince Rupert, BC, Canada Full Disclaimer: I’ve had this review in mind for over a year now, however due to the fact that I bit my finger nails, I was unable to use this tool in the field without a secondary device to open the components! Now that I’ve shaken that filthy habit, onwards with the review!  Leatherman, a known name in the multi tool business for over 27 years has a variety of models available all with their own specific usages. I chose the Wave to accompany me around the world on a bicycle due its price point, amount of tools available, and probability of using each specific tool. I’ve had a chance to utilize each and every tool at various stages before the writing of this review, so I’d like to think that some of my comments hold some merit. I’ve used this tool on a near daily basis for a year.
This attractive device, made from stainless steel has a sturdy feel to it, due to its 241 g weight. Folding up into a compact rectangular shape its easy to shove in the pocket, or in the included holster, that fits horizontally or vertically on ones belt, protected in place by a snap. With the tool closed and compact, the user is given 4 choices of tools to use, a Knife, with just over 2.9″ of length that can be easily opened with one hand via the kidney-shaped notch on the outside. From the factory, this blade comes very sharp, and has yet to be dulled by my usage. Directly across from the knife, a 4 sided file appears, giving the operator a choice between two surface grades – Precision filing is able to be performed, using the narrow end. To gain access to this tool there are two areas, one towards the tip of the file, where a minor nail catch exists, and towards the base of the tool, where a bit of pressure can be provided to release it from its holding area.   
[amtap amazon:asin=B0002H49BC] Flipping the tool over, reveals two other tools, another knife with a serrated blade, and a saw with 15 teeth per side. It cuts through wood in short order, however one must be sure not to slip due to the short travel distance taking off a chunk of your skin in the process. The serrated blade offers the same quick opening mechanism as the knife on the other side, while the saw shares the notch as the file. All of these tools lock into place and can be released with a release directly behind where the tool rests at the base. This ensures that the tool does not release its lock during usage. The only way I can see an accidental closure is if the operator is using the tool in reverse, which has its own safety implications in itself, and quite frankly – would be stupid.  Grabbing both horizontal ends of the device allows one to perform a near 180 degree rotation of each handles revealing a sturdy set of needle nose pliers, pliers, wire cutter, and stripper. The tip of the needle nose is fine enough to be able to reach into tight spots, and is extremely durable to wear from metals or whatever you throw at it. I’ve yet to wear down any of the “teeth” resulting in slippage when pulling, pushing twisting or bending. The wire cutter, which is not sharp, has difficulty in breaking through a piece of wire, and most usually has resulted in a bending of the wire, forcing the user to assist the tool by means of moving the piece you wish to cut back and forth repeatedly. The stripper, handles wire with a 26AWG with ease, yet struggles on anything bigger than 10. I’ve resorted to using other techniques and parts of this tool to accomplish stripping, however not in such a clean fashion.
 Bending the handles to be perfectly horizontal reveals a ruler, with each side measuring 4 inches or 10 centimetres. It’s best to use both handles on a flat surface to ensure precision, otherwise stick to measuring smaller pieces. Hidden in between the rulers is a surprise with yet more tools ready to be used. One side, holding a combo can opener and bottle opener does the job cleanly and efficiently after getting the hang of it. One must depress another locking mechanism on the other side of the handle to release this and other tools, with your fingernails. Also on the same side, is a screwdriver, with a Phillips end, one can simply pull on the bit to reveal that there is a “Blade” on the other side. Leatherman sells additional sizes of bits and replacements as a seperate product, that fit in both the Wave, and the more featured Charge. On the other end, you have the option of yet another multi-bit screwdriver, however of the precision type, suitable for repairing eyeglasses, picking your teeth, or tightening smaller screws.
The holding mechanism for these bits is secure, so one should not worry about losing one in the field. Alongside, is a much thicker “blade” piece, which has not only worked for tightening and loosening screws and bolts, but has acted as a prybar in my workings. Nothing has snapped off as of yet. Finally, a set of scissors uniquely fold out allowing the operator to cut nicely through twine, paper, fabric, what have you. All of these tools that are contained between the ruler allow for extra leverage by folding the Wave back to its compact state, only leaving the desired tool out. After repeatedly getting the unit soaked with salt water, I’ve yet to see any surface rust appear. The unit does get quite dirty however, and I’ve struggled with finding a solution to clean the hinges, and inside of the device leaving quite a dark mess inside. This can affect the overall fluidness of the hinges. The units innards are protected via a secure Torx bit, which is likely to be able to adjust the fluid motion of the tools, and allow for complete disassembly, however I’ve yet to come across any of these bits in my travels.  
The Wave has stood up to some non standard usages as well, acting as a hammer to bang in tent pegs, an eating utensil when one has realized they left theirs in an unknown place, makeshift fishing rod tying a bunch of line around it and running as fast as possible back tugging when receiving a bite, furniture shim, ingrown nail surgical tool, and ear scratcher. It’s passed each of these tests with flying colours. I receive many comments from passerby’s asking what type of Leatherman I’m carrying each asking how my overall feeling is about the unit. If the unit had a small fork built into it, and the means to hold a small thermometer, this device would be the be all end all for me, however at this stage, it’s graduated to the “never leave my side” status. Leatherman offers a warranty of 25 years for the unit, and I’m sure with proper care, that it’ll be able to stand up for that time and then some, providing I don’t lose the damn thing. A highly recommended tool for bicycle touring, camping, and just everyday tool carrying at a reasonable price. If you’ve been wondering if a multi-tool is right for you, keep this one in mind as a contender. You can buy it from any of these retailers, which will allow me to continue fulfilling my dream to cycle around the world, by means of the store operator offering a minor commission for referral. Thanks!  Leatherman, Tools & Hardware, Too low to display By Dave, on January 8, 2010, 3:33 pm Stanley Park, 74 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6H, Canada Fine, I’ll admit it. I’m nothing without a cup of coffee in the morning. For that matter, some days it’s two or three to get me by based on my energy levels. Caffeine just seems to fit into my regular daily pattern of requirements. Hey, everyone’s got a vice right? The quest for a perfect cup of coffee on the trail, or while bicycle touring is a pretty important deal for me. Paying upwards of $3 or more for a cup at a retail store does have its benefits (free wi-fi access, ability to strike up conversations to other customers) but when traveling on a budget, it’s best to do it yourself. After a few failed attempts and products I stumbled on the Big Sky Bistro in hopes of finding the elusive best cup of coffee. It’s an all in one approach to the classic coffee mug that has a press integrated to cut down on additional components required to get that fix. At 205 grams, its fairly lightweight and has a capacity of holding 16oz / 470ml of liquids.  Operation of the device is simple. Remove the Cap/Press Device, and put a scoop of coffee in the bottom, and fill the unit with hot water. Next replace the lid and press the handle down a small amount to allow the coffee to steep for a few minutes. Finally, depress the plunger knob all the way to the bottom and you are ready to enjoy your coffee. Couldn’t get any easier.
There is a small sip hole, and I didn’t notice any issues with the plunger knob hitting my face while drinking. The is big enough for your hands to fit through even wearing gloves, however it is so thick I’m unable to get a standard Biner or Clip to attach to it, which limits my portability options. It also is too big to fit in any car holder for those of you wanting to use it on the office. In fact, after I realized this and it was unsafe to drive with it in my lap, I had to empty out all the tasty goodness inside! Visually, my personal taste says it’s the ugliest looking print to ever have on a coffee cup, and I fully intend on covering it up with stickers, however the plunger components look sharp with their Stainless Steel post and Mesh filter. The filter is surrounded by plastic, which gives me a bit of unease with durability concerns, based on a friends experience with a GSI coffee press, that repeatedly snapped. I am able to keep the coffee warm enough (i.e. drinkable) for a good hour and 15 minutes indoors which definitely proves the mug has insulation. Because the inside is so wide you can easily clean this mug with brushes, and I’ve even thrown it into the Dishwasher. It is unknown if this mug contains any BPA and poses any safety risks from leeching this organic compound from the plastic. All in all, I think this product is a win. It’s large bulky size does make limit its applications, and I’m going to have to rethink how to attach it to my panniers/trunk bag, but it’s flexibility to utilize for coffee, teas, yerba mate with its included press allowing you to get the full flavour of your intended drink is second to none. Finally, I can enjoy a good strong cup of coffee. You can pick up this unit at Amazon.com, or Mountain Equipment Co-Op. By Dave, on June 18, 2009, 8:18 pm http://www.thermarest.com Thermarest has been known for their innovations in sleeping pads over the past 20 years – When they introduced their self inflating pads, it took the light-weight backpacking and camping industry by storm, spawning a whole new set of manufacturers all introducing new ways to provide comfortable sleeps. It was simple, you unscrewed a valve, and continued to set up your sleeping equipment. Eventually the pad would inflate to a reasonable level and you could then shut the valve. A shot of your breath worked just as well. Continuous refinements were done to their gear, listening to valued customers by introducing pads designed for women, changing the width, modifying the R-value for better insulation in colder temperatures, and improving packability and its overall weight. [singlepic=20,300,200,right]Following the success of their “Ridge-Rest” closed cell foam mattress, a new product was born. The Z-Lite. Coming in two sizes (Small and Regular), this pad folds and unfolds like an accordian, allowing the camper to setup their pad in a matter of seconds. With a hundreds of “egg-crate” indentations, the pad (mine is multi-colour orange and grey) provides a reasonable amount of comfort to your back when lying on it, blocking any bumps or rocks in the ground. The pockets on the bottom would trap hot air to add to the its 2.2 R value, however on the same token would also collect moisture. I’m not sure I would want to winter camp with this pad solely. Due to the narrow width of 20 inches, one does not have a lot of room to stretch their arms out sideways, and may find this makes them uncomfortable. Most of the time peoples arms will be in a sleeping bag so this may or may not be an issue. For those looking to keep their pack weight down, the “small” version can shave 110 grams off of the regular sized’s reasonably weighted 410 gram footprint at a sacrifice of losing almost 2 ft of length. This could be offset by a pillow and by putting clothes at your feet. I took this pad out and managed to stuff it into my Ortlieb Rack Pack medium, while still able to hold a pillow, and a rather large 4 man tent. It flexed, and showed some signs of bending but once it was laid out, it soon returned to its flat shape. It being puncture proof gave me confidence that I need not worry with half my body touching the ground in the morning, something that has happened all too often with inflatable pads. [singlepic=21,300,300,left]During the day, I found it was quite handy to take the pad out, and use it as a chair wherever I was. If I managed to get dirt or sand on it, I simply shook it off. It seems that Thermarest also offers a “Z-Chair” for this very purpose. All in all, I think this is a comfortable pad and offers alot of versatility to the camper. It’s hard to beat the value that this pad gives. Highly recommended. It’s available at Mountains Plus and REI in a new colour, Limon – which looks almost a day-glo yellow this year for 2009. By Dave, on June 7, 2009, 8:57 pm Topeak Road Morph ‘G’ Frame Pump http://www.topeak.com I’ve always followed the rule of the 7P’s (Proper Prior Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance) and wouldn’t even think about traveling anywhere without a device to inflate my tires should they become punctured of leak. Ever heard of Murphy’s Law? Topeak Road Morph Pump with Gauge $39.50 I found the Topeak Road Morph G at the local bike store on the wall with a variety of other “mini” pumps. What struck me as being unique, is that the pump “expanded” to turn into a larger pump, to allow for better control, leverage and flexibility while inflating. Constructed of a combination of rigid plastic and aluminum this light weight (220 grams) pump’s inflation hose uniquely expands after loosing a small threaded cap so that it doesn’t have to be wedged up against your wheel while inflating, the handle unfolds into a “T” allowing your hand to transfer more force, while a small rectangular piece of plastic unfolds to be used as a foot pedal giving you additional stability and force.[singlepic=17,400,300,right] Frame mountable, it is small enough to fit in a variety of locations. They recommended the top bar, yet I was able to squeeze it behind the vertical bar, parallel with my seatpost, giving me more room to hold bottle cages, and frame bags. The pump snaps into the holder, while a velcro loop securely fastens it in. By default, it comes ready to inflate tires using Presta Valves, however for those who use the well known Schraeder valve (commonly seen on Mountain Bike tires not to mention Automobile tires) one must simply unscrew the nut end of the pumps inflation hose, turn the end piece around 180 degrees and replace the nut in a matter of seconds. Understanding what PSI your tires are inflated at is very important, for overall ride quality and load carrying abilities. The pump comes with a fairly basic gauge that allows you to pressurize your tires all the way up to 160psi. I’ve yet to pump my tires up to anymore than 70psi, but when I was constantly inflating due to my WTB Slickasaurus failures, I found it quite easy and effortless to get them to the desired pressure within a minute. One thing I did find, is that it did not come with a manual. I sat and scratched my head a bit at how to get the pump to come back together, first not realizing the entire pumps potential based on their ‘Morph’ technology. The branding and writing on the barrel of the pump quickly wore off with usage – and I fear the inflation hose will collect water if I am riding in the rain. To combat this I will carry a few finger cots, to ensure long life. A recent discussion on a web forum related to the foot pad hinge breaking after repeated use – while I have yet to see this occur on mine, Topeak has gone and replaced the broken parts for the affected owners without issue. This shows Topeak is committed to the quality of their components and customers. You’d be hard pressed to find a better pump at such a reasonable price and quality than the Road Morph G, so this is highly recommended for usage not only for long distance touring, but commuting and leisurely bike rides. | Post to:
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