Topics

1

Gear Talk / 2012 Novara Randonee rear rack

« on: March 25, 2012, 08:10:56 pm »

Here's the question--If you were heading out on a 5,000 mile fully self-contained cross-country (USA) journey that would incorporate a wide variety of road surfaces and some pretty remote areas, would you use the stock rear rack on the 2012 Randonee or consider an upgrade as a worthy investment?

I haven't seen the new Randonee, but someone has sought my advice and knowing the reputation of stock racks, I'm leaning toward advising an upgrade. I tend to think a Tubus Cargo is a solid investment. For me, overkill in wheels and racks = peace of mind.

What do you think?

Ted

2

Routes / Bighorns

« on: February 12, 2012, 08:23:39 pm »

I'll be heading east over the Wyoming's Bighorn range mid to late July. I'm just wondering which is the preferred route: Hwy. 14 or 16? The overall beauty of the route is the priority. Decent shoulders would play a part, but the difficulty of the climb isn't a really a factor. Just looking for the prettiest route--that is, if one is nicer than the other. I've looked at a few journals, but it's really hard to determine which one is best. Is there anyone who's been over both? Jamawani?

Thanks in advance.

Ted

3

Routes / Eastbound route through South Dakota, Minnesota

« on: February 09, 2012, 09:14:58 am »

Beginning early June I'll be riding from Astoria, OR to Bar Harbor, ME, by way of the Lewis & Clark to Missoula, then Glacier NP, Yellowstone, Bighorns, Black Hills, Upper Penninsula Michigan (North Lakes route), and the eastern portion of the Northern Tier route. South Dakota is new territory for me, so I'm looking for an eastbound route from the Black Hills through SD and Minnesota, with the idea of connecting with the North Lakes route at Osceola, WI (or some other point??). Scenic and interesting is more important than convenient and quick. Some dirt roads OK. All suggestions are welcome.

Thanks in advance,

Ted

4

General Discussion / Must have Android apps

« on: January 25, 2012, 01:33:25 pm »

Not being an iPhone user, I'm sure there are Android apps that some might find very useful. I plan to use:

• Camp and Tent ( http://www.allstays.com/apps/camptent.htm )--From their web site: "14,000+ Campgrounds: Independent, KOA, National/State Forest, State Parks, Public Lands, Army Corps, National Park, Military, County and City Parks" I plan to use this one on my upcoming tour.
• BackCountry Navigator ( http://www.backcountrynavigator.com/ )--From their web site: "Explore safely beyond the limits of cell coverage...With the BackCountry Navigator app, your Android phone becomes an outdoor topo mapping GPS." Very useful for touring or hiking in more remote areas.
• Wish "TrackMyTour" was available for Android.

Are there other "must have" apps?

Many safe journeys,

Ted
www.bikewithamission.org