Messages

1

Gear Talk / Great Divide Equipment

« on: January 16, 2004, 07:54:00 pm »

Hi Dan
I am a dutch biker, done lots of touring both on and off road, using panniers back and rear and a BOB. I did part of the GDMT last summer, great fun. Touring needs strong wheels! I had problems wth panniers and rear wheels. For me a strong rim and at least 32 or 36 spokes crossed over 3 work well. 20-25 lbs sounds awfull light fot the Great Divide! There are several stretches where you'll need food for a couple of days. Are you sure you can stay this light? The handling of a bike is seriously effected by panniers, worse if you pack everything on a rear rack alone. A heavy handlebar bag is bad for steering and you loose some sight of the road. I used my BOB on the Great Divide and I find that it handles very well off-road. It is a lot heavier than a pannier set-up though. Anyway, have fun!

2

Gear Talk / YAK Plus Trailer vs. IBEX Plus Trailer

« on: January 16, 2004, 08:00:05 pm »

I own a BOB and am very pleased with it. No problems in a couple of years. i've seen the Ibex from up close, it sure looks cool but it's heavier than the normal BOB. I just run a low tire pressure and on big bumps BOB will just bounce a bit...

3

International / Biking in Japan

« on: January 20, 2004, 05:25:32 pm »

I have not toured Japan myself but english cyclist and writer Josie Dew did. As far as I know she has written two books about it. I have read one titled "A ride in the neon sun" it describes a long tour in Japan. I don't know the title of the other book but you should be able to find them. Good luck!