Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

wash, rinse, repeat.... work the body.

photos of food are mostly screened in order to be sensitive to those that struggle with eating too much. it was a nice couple of hours. my weight has dropped into the 170's (6 ft) because I only eat between 12 and 6... a 6-hour window, but I can eat anything I want during that time. stay healthy, eat less. Just Do It!

keep pounding those rivets!

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

I had some play in the bottom bracket on the Liberte beater bike. it turned out to be a spline clamp adjustment was needed, so not too much work. just loosen, pull it in and retighten. there was negligible play in the bottom bracket bearing. I have been really hard on this bike, and it is holding up well. the hinge looks good. I cleaned the chain and gearset and noticed reduced chain friction. the chain stretch on this one is about 60%, so it is good for another couple of months. this is a cheap and very lightweight folding bike that is holding up well to abuse. it rides like it was new. I like it. hey, when you are out and about, 30 miles from the plane, you want your bike to be reliable.

this bike has a lightweight hollow crank. for what I paid for this bike and several years of hard riding, it has value written all over it.

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

a nice weather day and I am outa here to a new place.... hey, that is a single dip cone (3) of premium ice cream for $5. I clipped off about 50 miles on the bike with some headwinds. a very good day.

photos of food are mostly screened in order to be sensitive to those that struggle with eating too much. my weight has dropped into the 170's (6 ft) because I only eat between 12 and 6... a 6-hour window, but I can eat anything I want during that time. stay healthy, eat less. Just Do It!

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Posts: 1854
Joined: Sat Mar 05, 2022 8:52 am
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

I kept pinching myself, asking if this was paradise. Perfect temperatures, location, people, food, and a bike. It doesn't get much better than today. I removed the tape on my ACOC and got an 25F additional cooling for the ride home. It was time to remove the tape in Ohio. A nice shale and limestone boundary, typical of Ohio 400-million-year-old geology.... and amazingly still horizontal. The turtle struck a raised aggressive pose when I took a photo. I didn't bother him any further. The 400 ft climb out of the valley on the bike was the easiest it has ever been for me, and on less food. Go figure! Oil looks OK and it's going to 100 hrs before changing.

The Victorian House, Queen Ann style, tour was excellent.

photos of food are mostly screened in order to be sensitive to those that struggle with eating too much.

Paul Simon - Kodachrome (Official Audio)
https://youtu.be/8rlDTK6QI-w?si=pDiX3beSZU6QIVgM

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

A Nice Bike Ride Close to Lake Erie

I had a wonderful ride along the North Coast Inland Trail, staying close to Lake Erie. It was my first time visiting both the Loraine County Airport and the trail itself, and they were truly delightful discoveries.

The route took me through the charming towns of Elyria, Oberlin, Kipton, and Wakeman. Altogether, I covered about 50 miles, enjoying the smooth trail, peaceful countryside, and friendly small-town vibes. Oberlin stood out, not just for its quaint college-town feel but also for its historical significance. Katherine Wright, sister of the famous Wright brothers, graduated from Oberlin College and later became a teacher before stepping into a key role managing her brothers' business endeavors.

The day started early with "wheels up" at 8AM and wrapped up back at the hangar by 7PM. Covering that much ground and enjoying so many sights in a single day felt like a lot of bang for the buck. A truly memorable ride!

Katherine Wright
https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/edit ... ght-sister

***********

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

Today was one of those perfect spring days that practically demands you get outside. I took full advantage and logged about 60 miles on the Zizzo Speedster. The sun was out, the breeze was light, and the temperature was ideal—absolutely perfect for a long ride.

For the first time, I explored a new section of trail south of Xenia, Ohio. It was a great discovery—smooth, scenic, and very well maintained. Compared to my winter rides, the trails were bustling with people today. Back then, I had the whole path to myself, but the liveliness of today's ride brought a different kind of energy.

I estimate I burned around 2,500 calories, but that's not really the point for me. With my OMAD (One Meal A Day) routine, I manage the calorie side of things pretty well. I ride simply because I enjoy it. Being out on the trail, moving through nature, and feeling the rhythm of the ride—that's what it's all about.

Looking forward to more days like this!

You will be tired after a bike ride like this. Put your faith in your flight checklist to get you home safely. It works!

Trust me, that's gourmet biscuits and gravy but in order to be sensitive to those that suffer from eating too much, I have screened it. If I didn't pack in calories early on the ride, I would bonk.

Ben Böhmer - Beautiful (feat. Malou) (Official Audio)
https://youtu.be/ukxWZn0Ncdg?si=-DM6VCauUOE0psdk

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

Alpacka raft... it fits well on the bike and the bike fits well on the raft. it's like a marriage made in heaven. I opted to get a raft without a zipper because I just cannot wrap my head around having the air in the raft held by a zipper. I did select to have all the tie down points that were available to be installed at the shop. pumping the raft full of air with a bag is a breeze. the raft has the self-draining option. I will give it a local try before launching for the big water. this is the lightweight material version of the Alpacka Caribou.


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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

It was a pleasant day spent cycling outdoors, and by evening, the winds were completely still. I added a cargo rack to the Liberte beater bike. I can just barely slide it into the baggage area without moving the seatbacks.

Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes
https://youtu.be/EPOIS5taqA8?si=_n9wMFjVsUOw43Jy

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

User avatar
A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

hey, a raft on a folding bike works! a test ride was good. I am upping the gear tooth count (again) to 58 teeth on the Zizzo Liberte Speedster as the legs are becoming stronger. I will also increase the gear tooth count on a couple other bikes. when you change to a higher gear you will need to add links to the chain.


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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

It was an excellent day for a bike ride. Although there was some wind, the trees along the bike trail effectively blocked most of it. There was no need for leg warmers or a jacket today, though a fanny pack proved useful for carrying essentials. I decided to purchase a one-month membership at the wellness center to make use of their pool and hot tub after my, which turned out to be a great decision. Having forgotten to bring a swimsuit, I attempted to buy one locally, but none were available in the village. Consequently, I rode to the neighboring village and bought one for $4.99. After enjoying the pool, hot tub, and a refreshing shower, I had dinner on the patio with fish and chips and met some pleasant individuals. Days like this are hard to surpass.

As a side note, I decided to continue with having only one meal today (OMAD), despite cycling. I anticipated that I might run out of energy at some point, so I carried a power bar. However, I felt strong throughout the entire of riding without food and felt good. I ate at my usual time, 6 PM. The OMAD approach is truly remarkable, and my body seems to thrive on it. It takes a couple of weeks to adapt to OMAD, but once you're there, the results are impressive. It could be particularly beneficial for those who are diabetic or pre-diabetic, as it helps reduce insulin levels in the blood.


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Last edited by A2022 on Sat May 17, 2025 7:59 am, edited 2 times in total.
Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

58 tooth front gear (sprocket, chainring, etc.) works fine on the Zizzo with 116, Z8.1, chain lengths. The original front gear is 48 teeth. No need to removed the bottom crank bracket, just remove the 5 Allen screws and the pedals and the gear will slide off along the crank. note: if you replace the chain at 75% stretch you will get more life from the gearset and front gear.

Zizzo Liberte speedster (58T) vs Zizzo Forte camping bike (48T original) front gear comparison.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBG2NT8M?re ... asin_title

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NRF1X44?re ... asin_title


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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

User avatar
A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

Frankfort, KY (Capital City), and Springfield, OH, provided enjoyable trips today. I traveled south across the Ohio River and picked up another 3D printer in Frankfort, KY (printer #11). Can a LulzBot Taz6 fit in an RV9A? Yes. I unloaded the 3D printer at the hangar, loaded a bike, and headed north to Springfield, OH, for a 60-mile bike ride. I met some ham radio operators down around the Ceasar's Creek area and got their card. I was truly impressed by the youngest of them, as he already had his license. I am a licensed ham radio operator and have one in the aircraft, APRS. I ended the day relaxing in the hot tub and swimming a couple of laps in the pool, which truly made me feel rejuvenated. The weather was beautiful, making it a perfect day to be out and active.

On another note, I reflected on Dr. Sten Ekberg's statement about OMAD (one meal a day) and its claim of providing endless energy. While "endless" is an ambitious claim, experience supports his perspective. A few weeks ago, I completed a 30-mile ride without eating until my usual 6 PM meal and felt great. Curious about the limits, I made a 60-mile ride today and maintained good energy throughout the day suggesting he might be correct. I had always believed I would run out of energy if I didn't eat before or during a bike ride, but it seems different when following OMAD. My results were positive. This experience reinforced the value of experimenting with one's body, as it is the only one you have. OMAD could potentially be particularly beneficial for individuals who are diabetic or prediabetic due to its ability to lower insulin levels in the blood.

Hey, if you want more energy, try OMAD. Give it a couple weeks in order for your body to get up on the step. It's different, but it works.

https://youtu.be/WOxgJE6QR2o?si=sjHskBByQGXTiGsw
https://youtu.be/YITJzeZtuuA?si=13tBR9bKGos8BmWD

You will be tired after a day like today, OMAD or no OMAD. Use the aircraft checklist to get you home safely.

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

User avatar
A2022
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Re: Zizzo Liberte - folding bike

Post by A2022 »

I am considering these clipless pedals that snap in for easy removal. A few days ago, I managed to keep up with some riders wearing numbers on backs for approximately four miles before they pulled ahead. These pedals might enable me to gain an additional mile per hour by allowing torque to be applied to the pedal on the upstroke. The snap in feature is required in order to be able to fold the bike and fit it in the aircraft. I would only use these on the Zizzo Liberte Speedster.

https://youtu.be/RXik5inTPuo?si=bE06xoA14Q6sBD9d

https://youtu.be/4gCv7X_J6EI?si=iEmGsl9z4vxbEjnN

https://www.mkspedal.com/?q=en/product/node/409

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*******
ah, the SOLUTION Ezy Superior pedals (above) have been discontinued. they were heavy at 1.25 lbs for the pair but were nice.

I decided on these, US-L Ezy Superior. they are listed to be very easy to clip out and were designed with folding bikes in mind. weight = .76 lb for the pair. looks to be artwork to me.

https://www.mkspedal.com/?q=en/product/node/140

The US-L includes our original US-L cleat set (compatible with three-hole shoes), and is also compatible with Look’s Keo 0° and 4.5° float cleats (Please note there is no compatible with the KEO Grip cleat or the KEO 9° float cleat)

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Steve Melton
N531EM, RV9A, Superior O-320, WW 200RV prop, Slick mags, CHT 330F, EGT 1300F, B&C, 1300+ hours
Freedom and Democracy are all that really matter.
Ride a bike, unlock the world.
https://www.rvplasticparts.com/
https://www.gpsdock1.com/

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