biggs682
Touch it up and ride it
Only snag being it is an Aluminium frame
Yes I would prefer a steel frame myself especially if touring in the back of beyond but for more normal destinations then I could live with an alloy frame
Only snag being it is an Aluminium frame
It's entirely possible to select all your components in advance and have them on a wishlist or in your basket ready for overnight delivery (in the Western world).
One thing I'd definitely consider for a bike I would have for a long time is S&S coupling or even a folding bike. Plane transport cost is at an historical low and won't stay that way. Train transport is the future, especially in Europe.
Yes I would prefer a steel frame myself especially if touring in the back of beyond but for more normal destinations then I could live with an alloy frame
and before anyone says 'carbon fork' I for one don't trust plastic.
May have to go second hand and take a chance
Looks the right spec.
Thanks to all the help here, I've got a list of frames/models in mind that are close to the wheelbase, reach etc that would suit. Now looking at groupsets that are being offered which seem to be in entry/mid range level - 105, Tiagra, Sora, Apex, Rival. Bit confused with some of the mix and max sets that are about, based on running into replacement sourcing problems before. Will be spending a lot of time reading groupset threads here so I can get my head around what should match.
Don't need the bike until early 2024 as the next big tour is not until March or May. Have a number of bikes on my Ebay wishlist and have put in bids on a few. We'll see.
Just my thoughts on drivetrains for a tourer; 105 is lovely to use on a quick road bike, ime, but I'm glad I chose Sora for my tourer - parts are cheaper and in combination with some nice low ratios it does all I need. As you will know the most important gear on a laden tourer is the lowest one. I have a 30/40 bottom gear and it gets used.
OK, that's the big ticket item narrowed down.....I've got a list of frames/models in mind that are close to the wheelbase, reach etc that would suit.
If you expect to, or take comfort from the idea of being able to get replacements along the way then I'd suggest minimising any unnecessary complications. Or at least take really good notes! There's a big difference between figuring it all out at home and recalling it, then explaining it to someone else - perhaps in a foreign language.Will be spending a lot of time reading groupset threads here so I can get my head around what should match.
What spares do you typically carry on a 2 week tour?I carry far too many spares now "just in case" so that would help me lighten the load while still having some confidence about fixing a bike if I get caught out.