Messages

1

Gear Talk / Re: rigid or not on the great divide?

« on: April 10, 2013, 09:50:28 pm »

Thanks for your reply.  I am kinda leaning towards a front suspension fork.

I do like the low-cost, simplicity, and front rack options of a rigid fork, but I a definitely worried about wear and tear on my arms and hands.

2

Gear Talk / Re: Saddle bags versus trailer in tow: Which is better for a cross country trip?

« on: April 06, 2013, 03:44:20 pm »

I prefer panniers as well.   Just don't purchase giant rear panniers and overload your back end.   I think my bike handles really well with medium sized panniers in back and small front panniers mounted on low-rider style front rack. 

The danger of large capacity (trailer or pannier) is that it is tempting to bring along too many items that you cannot live without.... you know, otherwise know as stuff. 

Dave

3

Gear Talk / rigid or not on the great divide?

« on: April 06, 2013, 03:23:59 pm »

Greetings,

I am interested in hearing from anyone that has ridden all or part of the GDMBR.  My son and I are planning on a GDMBR tour, fully-loaded / self-contained, riding steel 29ers.  I am wondering how tough on my 55 year-old body it would be to ride a rigid fork (2.4 tires) instead of a front suspension fork?

Thanks,
Dave

4

Gear Talk / Is there any Big Dummies out there?

« on: April 23, 2008, 11:44:26 pm »

Hello, I would love to hear from anyone who is intending to ride the Great Divide Route (or similar route) with a Surly Big Dummy.  It looks like a promising rig for this type of tour.  

I don't think I can go much longer without owning one of these cool bikes.  I just might stimulate the bike industry with my economic stimulus package.  

5

General Discussion / My son a future bike tourist?

« on: November 02, 2007, 11:47:30 pm »

I did a whole bunch of touring in 80's.  I worked for Adventure Cycling (Bike "C" to me), did two cross country tours, and rode the "Northstar", Canadian Maritimes, New England...  It was awesome; you folks know exactly what I am talking about.  More than 20 years later I am a dedicated bike commuter still riding my 80's Specialized Expedition!

Lately I have been thinking about doing a long tour with my son someday.  He is only nine, but before I know it he will be graduating high school.  Today he asked me if I would get him a bike with drop handlebars next spring!  It would be a wonderful thing to ride across the USA again with him.  Would it not?  But I just can't help but wonder if traffic is too dangerous these days.  Everyday on my commute I see distracted-aggressive-self-absorbed-impatient-SUV-driving-cell-phone-talking-text-messaging-coffee-swilling-idiot drivers.  I find myself wishing that gas was $6 a gallon!