Here’s something to stir your curiosity: Light roasts are the espresso of the coffee world—intense, complex, and wildly misunderstood. Yet when you try to dial them in on an SR800, the numbers don’t always align. Take Rwanda Nyamasheke Muhororo Natural, for instance. Hacea recommends light to ultra-light profiles, targeting 405°F, 10–11% weight loss, and 90–95 Agtron. But in practice, you’re hitting 13% loss, temps keep climbing post-drop, and the Agtron scale feels like a moving target. Why? Because light roasts demand precision that’s as much art as science.
The SR800’s extension tube and thermometer are your allies, but they’re only as useful as your understanding of heat dynamics. When you drop at first crack, the machine’s inertia keeps the drum spinning, feeding heat to the beans even after the roast profile shifts. This “post-drop heat” can skew weight loss metrics, making it tricky to hit the 10–11% sweet spot. The solution? Adjust your roast curve to account for this residual energy. Drop earlier, or let the machine’s timing compensate for the delayed heat release.
Agtron is a compass, not a map. The scale’s variability stems from bean density, moisture, and roast depth. Some roasters swear by 90–95, others prefer 85–90. The key is consistency—use the same scale for every batch, and calibrate your thermometer to match the roast’s thermal behavior. If your SR800’s temp spikes after drop, you might be over-roasting. Consider lowering the endpoint temp by 10–15°F to let the beans cool without burning.
Light roasting isn’t about chasing numbers—it’s about balance. The SR800’s precision lets you tweak variables like heat application and cooling phases, but you have to think beyond the dial. When you roast Nordic-style, you’re not just caramelizing sugars; you’re sculpting flavor profiles that demand patience and adaptability.
Share your approach in the comments.
What’s your go-to Agtron range for light roasts, and how do you handle post-drop heat? Share your approach in the comments.
Questions & Answers
How long should I roast ultra-light coffee on an SR800?
Roast 12-15 minutes for ultra-light. Monitor temp closely. Adjust time based on roast level and bean type. Aim for a light, clean finish.
What temperature should I aim for with an SR800?
Target 195-205°C. Use thermometer for accuracy. Adjust based on bean and roast desired. Avoid overheating to prevent burning.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
