Topics

1

Gear Talk / stability

« on: June 12, 2013, 06:55:38 pm »

So I just completed my first multi- day self supported tour with a full camping setup and am looking for some advice. During big long descents i didn't have as much stability as i would have liked and am wondering if i should either a) use front panniers or b) get wider tires. To be clear, descents were still fun and I probably got going around 40mph, I just would like a little more stability.

Background: I have a surly crosscheck with 25c panaracer pasella tg tires and am only using a full size set of ortlieb rear panniers. My handlebars are pretty high for an fairly upright riding style. I weigh about 135, fully loaded bike was 50lb (roughly 30lb bike and 20lb panniers and gear). I can't imagine carrying more than I was on this trip.

All advice is welcomed.

2

Pacific Northwest / Kelso/Longview to Astoria

« on: June 03, 2013, 02:46:02 am »

I'm planning on riding from the Amtrak station at Kelso/Longview to Astoria (and then down the coast) and I'm hoping for some advice, from what I can see there are three potential ways to make the trip from Kelso/Longview,WA to Astoria.

#1) Cross into Oregon right away across the Lewis and Clark Bridge - this looks like about 53 miles
http://goo.gl/maps/tJ054

#2) Use the ferry - 59 miles
http://goo.gl/maps/Sa4yw

#3) Staying in WA until the Astoria bridge which looks like it is 75 miles and well, this looks like the worst option. . .

My IT band is acting up, so minimizing hills on the first day of riding would be nice. . . the second concern is of course traffic and shoulder width.

Thanks!

3

Pacific Northwest / San Juan trip - suggestions

« on: November 10, 2012, 04:33:01 pm »

I've never been thorugh the San Juans and wanted to see if anyone would offer up any advice on my proposed route. I'm started and ending in N.Seattle.

http://goo.gl/maps/cZPc8