Topics

1

Classifieds / Wanted: Garmin 62s

« on: October 21, 2012, 08:34:41 am »

Hi, looking for a Garmin 62s preferably with US cities/maps for my tour across the US.  Probably don't need it but would be nice addition and I can use for other trips by kayak, car, etc.  If you have a used but not abused one, let me know.  I am currently waiting for the Christmas sales to buy new since most used ones are going for new pricing anyway.  If you have a one for sale or know of a good sale, please let me know.

Thanks

2

Routes / Southern Route: Start in March, April, or May?

« on: August 13, 2012, 05:08:07 pm »

Hello again,

I will be doing a coast to coast southern route (east to west) from Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA.  Everyone has been helpful in these forums about routes, equipment etc.  Last piece of my puzzle is start date.  I have 5 weeks and can use them any time of the year.

My plan is to start the last week of March and end the last week of April.  My thought is that it is warming up so I should miss the snow going over the divide near Datil, NM.  Then I'm thinking the desert won't be so brutal yet in April.

Basic route in NM:  Roswell, Socorro, Datil, Mule Creek, then Bylas, AZ and into Phoenix where I follow the Southern Tier Route to San Diego.
Google Map with cities I will hit:  https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=213731278210051813731.0004c3e119ef9df5c7235&msa=0&ll=33.215712,-109.742432&spn=3.405007,7.723389&iwloc=0004c3e1750bcb7f7e410

Advice/Experiences appreciated.  Thanks for everyone's inputs - you have inspired me to do this trip.

3

Gear Talk / Help me accesorize my Surly LHT

« on: August 05, 2012, 04:26:37 pm »

Hi,

I've decided to get a new Surly LHT (56 cm) with 26 inch wheels for my Christmas present.  I will get from LBS who will ensure correct size.  I still see new/used Jamis Aurora and Cannondale T1/T2 bikes on Ebay and other sites (for under $1,000) and could be swayed if I find the right size, but for now, its the LHT new since I cannot find used.

Anyway, I will be doing a coast to coast from from Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA - 2,600 miles, self-supported in 2014 and want to log some miles/trips on my touring bike before then.

What accessories should I get?  Below is my prelim list but I'd like to hear from people who have done tours and what has worked for them.  Cost is a factor so I will shop used when I can.  My budget for total bike with accessories is $1,600 but hopefully I can do it for less.

Surly front and rear racks - may as well order with bike

Surly fenders - order with bike?  Should I get plastic or metal?

Ortlieb waterproof panniers - roller front and back  Question:  do I really need front and rear - I will be camping/preparing my meals most of the way.

Cateye Bike computer to monitor speed and mileage

Map holder - what brand?

Did I miss anything?  All feedback appreciated on bike choice as well as accessories.

4

Routes / Need Route and info from Georgia to San Diego

« on: July 07, 2012, 10:38:49 am »

Hello,

I am just starting to plan a cross-country ride (east to west) in which I have 5 weeks to complete.  The Southern Tier route is a little too long for the amount of time I have.  I know several people have done a Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA route and I have some useful maps/info from them.  What I have not been able to find in my web searches is a laid-out route with stops/places to camp/places to stay/bike shops/etc.  Anyone have one or know where I can get one?

I am good at using Google/Google Maps and the route I have in mind I can find places to stay, etc but I'd appreciate input from someone who has done it.  This will be a self-supported tour and the preliminary plan is to begin the last week of March, 2014.  I know it's a ways off but getting the route laid out will allow me to get the logistics figured out.   In the meantime, I will be buying a Surly LHT and doing some serious training - I live in south Florida so am also a little worried about hills and (gulp) mountains.

Thanks for any advice and info.