Random thoughts

I spent the weekend trying to sort gear, pack, test the Fuji X100s, and get some miles into my tired legs.  Tired not because of riding, but the summer grind.  I got 30 miles in through the rolling hills and coastal flats and oh the pain.  Here are some random thoughts on bikes and cameras, just to get them out of my head: 

1. Love the size and organic nature of the X100s
2. No, to all those that ask, it is not a film camera
3. Escalator tires are not good on the road or gravel.  Just too big.  Looking forward to the Husker Dus that I pick up this week. 
4. The metering on the X100s is somewhat off.  Any 'outdoor' scenes definitely require 2/3 to 1 full stop exposure increase, especially if you believe in exposing to the right
5. The X100s battery seems quite good, one charge and I am still going
6. The frame lines in the Optical Viewfinder are not correct.  I don't know if there is a problem with mine or if this is typical of others.  They are off by enough that it is frustrating to me
7. I am on the fence about the Gilles Berthoud.  After a couple of rides I am struggling to get it set up right. I do so love the feel of leather compared to synthetic saddles, so that is a good thing. 
8. I am definitely liking what I see out of the X100s, but it is so tough to compare IQ when you are used to the D800 and Zeiss lenses.  There is just not much else that compares.  With that said, all in all, I see some potential in the Fuji stuff. 
9. Fuji XE-1 with the 35 and 60 arrives today courtesy of Lens Rentals.com. 
10. I was unable to sort out a 'box' for the trip, so I will put my faith in the Airlines to not destroy my bike, once again. I have a few tricks up my sleeves for the TSA guys in hopes that they will do a better job of re-taping the bike box and allowing it to navigate AIRLINE HELL!! 

Ok, that is it, I feel like it was a bit of a rant, but oh well, either way, it is good to just get it out of the system. 

The Lost Coast trip is really going to be beautiful.  The route winds down from Crescent City to San Fransisco via the old road and trail system found along the coast. This should offer up an amazing feast for the camera and the senses, and my need to just get away for a bit.  More bits to come on gear selection for all of you fellow gear junkies.