Messages

1

Routes / Re: Allegheny Loop Info

« on: October 01, 2012, 06:38:15 pm »

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/2012AlleghenyMountainsLoop

We just finished riding this route last week and have written a crazyguy journal which will fill you in on all that you might want to know and it will answer some of your questions.  We definitely recommend your buying the ACA downloadable (and printable maps). They are really necessary!  Hope you have fun and that you enjoy this route.  It IS challenging but going with a group is a great idea! There are some very remote sections of this ride.  If you only read one part of the journal, read the conclusion which my husband wrote as it is very informative!  Let us know if you have any other questions.

2

Routes / Re: Northern Tier / TransAm Start Date Question (E to W travel)

« on: October 01, 2012, 06:11:07 pm »

My good friend who did the TransAM this year with an organized Adventure Cycling group started in Yorktown on May 5th.  They did not have any trouble with extremes of weather, whereas if you started a Northern Tier in Maie in May, you might have some very cold weather! Good luck.

3

Routes / Re: Blue Ridge Parkway / Skyline Drive input

« on: October 01, 2012, 06:07:46 pm »

Sorry that I did not see this sooner.  We did the Skyline Dr. and BRP last year at this exact time.  We had a lot of rain, but not much traffic because it was before the peak leaf season.  WE did get stopped by the rangers on a particularly foggy day to make sure we all had lights, both front and rear...we did. 

Our journal is at:  http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/2011SkylineDriveandBRP

Hope you have a great time!  It really is a wonderful (but challenging) ride.

4

Gear Talk / Re: Specialized Tricross Comp 2010

« on: November 17, 2009, 05:22:21 pm »

My husband and I both own Specialized Tri-cross Sport bicyles (not comp) for our touring.  We read extensively about this bicycle prior to buying.  Although circumstances have prevented me from loaded touring yet, my husband has used his on three self-supported trips since May of this year, one of 1000 miles and two others, one 450, and one about 350 miles.  These bikes have a triple crank, eyelets for racks, and room for fenders.  They also run 32mm tires.  He has absolutely loved this bicycle and he plans to ride it on the Southern Tier in March, 2010.  There is plenty of heel clearance for the panniers when they are adjusted correctly.  I have ridden my Tri-cross unloaded over 350 miles and it is the most comfortable bicycle I have ever ridden, fits me better, and yes, it is a bit more upright.  I think this is a plus on the touring bike.  I have also put over 4000 miles on my regular road bike this year and still love the Tri-cross for the fit and comfort. 

We, too, were interested in supporting our LBS, and this bike was much more readily available than any other touring bike such as the Surly or other true "touring bike." 

Please try out this bike for fit and ride before going to a more expensive "touring"  bike which may or may not work for you.

Good luck, Gina, and have a great tour, when you go!