Essentially all the bike is transporting is you - tools, supplies, clothing,
and a rest stop and repair shop, will always be a few feet behind so a
wide range of bicycle types would up to the task: rigid MTB, cyclocross,
road, or hybrid. It's crucial that the bike and its components conduce
to relaxed and comfortable riding over the long haul. A minor
discomfort at the 5 KM mark can develop into agonizing pain 150 KMs
down the road, so it's recommended that you log a few miles on your
prospective tourer before embarking on the real thing. Don't set out
without having dialled the bike in or riding a century or two.
You need not resort to a dedicated tourer; any frame that's durable,
comfortable, and versatile (can accommodate larger tire sizes, fenders)
will do. But, off the top of my head, a couple of framesets come to
mind that are inexpensive and versatile: a) Surly's Long Haul Trucker <
http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html> is a touring specific frame
b) Jamis Nova <
http://www.jamisbikes.com/bikes/06_nova.html> is
technically a cyclocross bike but is definitely up to the rigors of
touring. (Too bad the 2006 model has dropped the low rider bosses on
the forks).
Last summer I toured 2200 KM unsupported on an older Nova. Please
refer to the photos at
for a few shots of
my touring setup. Bikes of this ilk are versatile enough to be employed
in a variety of capacities (commuter, utilitarian, recreational), and
deliver much value for the money.
Many older 27" wheel steel road bikes of bygone years sported ample
tire clearance and a full complement of braze-ons as standard
features; I would not hesitate to tour on these bikes (after an overhaul).
Durability should not be a concern if you avoid 'stoopid light'
aluminum frames and excessively light and exotic components. I avoid
Al frames because of their finite fatigue life-spans, am partial to steel
rigs, and tour on (at least) 36 spoke wheels. Another preference of
mine: 700c wheels over 26" MTB hoops for road touring; the larger
diameter roles more smoothly over road irregularities. Stick with the
tried and true.
The amount of gear you're carrying, tire pressure, and road surface will
chiefly determine the 'speed' of whatever bike you choose. You'll find
that a bike that's a kilo or two lighter will be of little moment after
you've topped your water bottles and you're loaded with a lunch,
camera, and some clothing. Do not overly concern yourself with speed;
it's a tour not a race; the important issues are comfort, durability and
enjoyment.
Luke
