General Discussion / Re: how to lighten a load
« on: November 07, 2022, 10:25:32 am »Instead of reassessing your load, why not reassess your thinking patterns?
First of all this was your maiden voyage, right? So you have to give yourself time to get used to your load.
Heavier will slow you down or shorten your distance but it will usually make you stronger over time. Maybe think on that?
Yes, you could wear a jacket instead of a sweater but how will you feel in the jacket? If you're motelling all the time that means eating and drinking and socialising in public. Personally, I prefer to look like Joe public than Joe the Cyclist.
Yes, you could carry just one outfit but putting on damp clothes first thing in the morning is something that I personally hate. (It's also the time when a wool sweater helps!)
Personally, I wouldn't be without a pair or three of wool socks. Even wet, they keep my feet warm and are a huge comfort at times. Mind you, I tend to camp.
You could, of course, go without and see what happens. These days with mobile phones help is literally a phonecall away - providing you've cell coverage.
I raised the thinking process because the curse of the long distance bike tourist is the ample amount of time to think. If we're thinking of the wrong things, or in the wrong way it can make our days very difficult.
For what it's worth I'm toting about 40kg of gear on my bike (that's what? 90+lbs?). Sure, I go up hills slower than some (but not all!) but I can stop as and when I like. That suits me. I suggest you find out what suits you.
By the way I've ridden around Austin at this time of year and I wouldn't do it without rain gear and woollen socks!