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March 10, 2008
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 How do I deck out my road bike for a cross-country trip?
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Standard Bike Rack (courtesy, Jandd)
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I am considering a serious cycling trip across Europe, and Im set on getting a
road bike for it. But Im having an equipment quandary. I wont need much, but
how do I carry things like a sleeping bag? I dont want to carry a pack on my
back. What do you suggest?
Barry
Europe
Do you have a question of your own?
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 You wont need much? Sleeping bag
pad
camera
clothes
much more unless you
strictly stay in hostels. Its going to add up. And you wont be happy with a
pack; thats too uncomfortable and awkward.
Ideally you start with a touring-style bikea road bike with the gearing and
geometry to make a long trip comfortable, plus lots of braze-ons for mounting
racks. In the U.S., the Trek 520 ($1,250; trekbikes.com) is a classic of this
type, with a comfy steel frame, triple chainring, and sturdy wheels and tires.
Over there, see if you can find a built-up Bob Jackson Super Tourist. A complete
classic. Expect to pay maybe 700 euros for a used one.
Then, for a moderately light load, you first need a rear luggage rack. If you can
find a Jandd Standard Rack ($48; jandd.com), get one. Then add a pair of
moderate-size panniers. Ortlieb (ortlieb.com) are the best; theyre fully
waterproof and very tough. Their Back Roller Plus (about 70-75) have 40 liters
of capacity, double as day packs, and are readily overstuffedor collapse
down if you have excess volume. They will have plenty of room for your sleeping
bag and other stuff.
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