Messages

1

Routes / About the Pacific Coast Route

« on: May 08, 2009, 05:21:33 pm »

I've read some threats about this route but I'm a little concerened about the busy highway (101 I think?), are there any other ways of doing this trail through a safer route? Or do you guys think we'll be fine using the ACA maps? I'd like to go from Sacramento all the way to Portland.

Any suggestions/advice?

Thanks!

2

Gear Talk / Re: Front Racks

« on: May 08, 2009, 02:50:48 pm »

Well, I ended up ordering the Nashbar Front Rack, thank you all for your input. Let's just hope this fits and lasts!

3

General Discussion / Re: Pacific Coast Route vs. TransAm

« on: May 08, 2009, 12:26:58 pm »

I guess that's what I've heard, too many accidents and it is more of a dangerous route. Does anyone have other suggestions on routes? We only have about a month and a half but I want to make sure we're taking a good route, I know they all have their perks but I'm a little more hesitant to take the Pacific Coast one.

4

General Discussion / Pacific Coast Route vs. TransAm

« on: May 07, 2009, 09:00:43 pm »

Hi, we had planned to do the TransAm but we had to cut our travel time short so we're thinking about doing the Pacific Coast Route starting a week from now. Has anyone biked this route and what kind of advice to you guys give if different from doing another route?

We have all of our equipment ('cept for front racks)...but just wondering if there are different precautions to take than the TransAm.

Thanks!

5

Gear Talk / Re: Front Racks

« on: May 07, 2009, 07:42:03 pm »

Well, I got this one from a local shop, the local shops don't even have front racks around here, except for this one that luckily had two and they didn't work for our bikes. They are Performace TransIt Front Racks.

I was thinking about getting the Nashbar Front Rack and hoping it'll fit just fine?

6

Gear Talk / Re: Front Racks

« on: May 07, 2009, 06:36:27 pm »

Hi, I'm still trying to figure out which front racks to use. I bought some and they didn't fit, they're some generic ones. I'm looking at the Nashbar Front Rack, but I was wondering if anyone is sure it'll fit my Trek 7.2 bike? I don't want to buy another and not have it fit. Our trip is being postponed because of this and I'd like to get them ASAP if they would work.

Thanks!

7

Gear Talk / Front Racks

« on: January 01, 2009, 05:01:18 pm »

Hi! I've been looking for front racks for my trek bicycle for touring in April. I'm not sure which are good for touring that will hold enough weight.

I was looking at the Jandd Low Front Rack because it's pretty inexpensive (around $55). The others seem pretty expensive to me, I'd like to pay less than $100 if possible.

Any advice? Thanks!!!

-Flounder-

8

Gear Talk / TransAm Cold Days Gear

« on: October 14, 2008, 10:44:06 am »

Hi, I'll be touring the TransAm route May 09 (West to East) and I was wondering if anyone can give me some advice on what type of clothes to take for the coldest days (Rockies primarily). I'm concerned about being too cold and not having the appropriate clothes but also about carrying too much stuff. I know I can send them home once I'm done using them but then I'm afraid I'll need 'em later.

I bought a MEC rain jacket but that's not going to keep me warm, that just blocks wind and its waterproof. I've been looking at the Under Armour cold gear but it's kind of pricey although the long sleeve shirts feel pretty good. I can't even think of what kind of pants to wear to keep me flexible and warm at the same time.

What do you guys wear on cold days? Is it breatheable? Would I need it after we pass the Rockies? And I'm assuming that's the coldest part of the route? I haven't even looked that up but I was just assuming that was the case.

Thanks!  

9

Gear Talk / Touring Tires & Brakes

« on: October 14, 2008, 02:50:13 pm »

Thank you! this was VERY useful! and yes, I felt dumb after asking the question I realized my bike already has V-Brakes (that's how much I know!).

But thanks, I'll carry a tube or two, a spare and a couple of brake pads. Yes, I will be training (already started) so I'll change my tires and brake pads right before the trip.

I love this forum! :p

10

Gear Talk / Touring Tires & Brakes

« on: October 02, 2008, 03:59:20 pm »

Yes, there's 3 of us doing self-supported...the whole TransAm trail. I have a Trek 7.2 FX. I'm just not sure if the equipment it came in will be sufficient for the whole tour and what amount of replacements I should bring.

11

Gear Talk / Touring Tires & Brakes

« on: October 02, 2008, 03:45:14 pm »

I've read different people saying they changed the original tires their bikes came in and brakes before touring. I'll be doing the TransAm and wondering if this it is necessary, to get better tires and brakes. I've heard about v-brakes but no idea what those are or how they are better.

Also, as a replacement if I were to get flats, how many extra tires, tubes and brake pads should I pack before touring?

Thank you!

12

Gear Talk / Touring Stove

« on: October 24, 2008, 12:36:22 pm »

I'm going to try that Super Cat alcohol stove! If anyone else tries it I'd like to know how it goes. I assume for a long tour you'll need plenty of alcohol and plenty of cans. My only concern is wind but wouldn't it work fine if you can block it? Let's hope so. I'll try it at home and see what the results are.

Great site!

13

Gear Talk / Touring Stove

« on: October 15, 2008, 11:16:37 am »

Thanks for everyone's advice, I bought the Coleman Feather 442 Dual Fuel Stove. I hope it works ok. It's pretty light and small.

Thanks again!

14

Gear Talk / Touring Stove

« on: October 02, 2008, 03:41:45 pm »

If I were to use the alcohol stove, where would I get the fuel and how do you normally carry it (fuel)? It sounds like a great idea.

15

Gear Talk / Touring Stove

« on: October 02, 2008, 01:32:03 pm »

I will by making my first TransAm tour this upcoming May and I was wondering which stove I should take that's light, affordable, easy maintenance/use, and easy to find fuel for if we run out during the trip.

I wouldn't want to spend more than $100 if possible on it.

Any ideas?