Am I on the right track?

[MNRider]

I originally built my bike as a heavy duty fitness/hybrid but after reading some of the AC articles and lurking on the forum, it appears that it might work adequately as a touring bike. Please let me know if I'm on the right track and if there is anything else I need to get started on day and weekend trips.

Current specs:

• Frame - 1990 Trek 700 MultiTrack, chrome-moly main triangle with hi-ten stays and fork
• Drivetrain - Alivio 48/36/26 crankset, Shimano HG 12-25 9sp cassette, Deore FD and Deore LX RD
• Wheels - Handbuilt 36-spoke, Deore LX hubs, Salsa Delgado doublewall eyeleted rims, DT Swiss butted spokes, Specialized All Condition Armadillo 700c x 25 tires
• Controls - Flatbar with Deore v-brake levers and Deore LX trigger shifters
• Brakes - Deore v-brakes
• Cyclist Interface - Ergon GC2 grips with built-in bar ends, Specialized Avatar saddle, Shimano M530 double sided pedals SPD/Flat
• Add ons - Bontrager rear rack, underseat bag (tubes and tools), small triangle bag (rain jacket and/or walk-off cable and lock), 144 lumen headlight, three mode LED taillight

Outside of panniers, what else would I need to outfit this bike for short duration trips? Thanks for any tips.

Dave

[waynemyer]

It looks like you are in plenty good stead. I would suggest a handlebar bag, but that is just my personal preference/love of the convenience it offers.

If you are just taking day and weekend trips, you will quickly find what does and doesn't work for you.

[DaveB]

Sounds pretty suitable as long as you are comfortable with flat bars.  I would suggest lower gearing.  a 12x27 9-speed cassette will give you the same cogs from 12 through 21 and only the 23 and 25 are replaced with 24 and 27 gogs.  a 12x32 cassette will give even lower gearing and still work with your shifters and rear derailleur.