Touring - help converting MTB for cross country tour.

im going to tour a Gary Fisher Marlin across the united states.

it needs to be converted.

i have front suspension.

i gotta go, but if you have anymore questions, ask and i will answer.

There are tools for every purpose. I have even heard of a guy starting to cross the country on a Masi racing bike. He had to carry all his gear in a backpack. On a MTB?? OK, if your are sure, try adding drop bars even if you have to attach them under the flat bars. I have and it works. Use lighter tires; YOU are the one that has to move all that mass. Consider a trailer if you can't put on racks. Ditch the suspension if it means you can add front racks. Etc, Etc. I have a purpose built touring bike. It is meant for what you are trying.

If you're going to be riding mostly on paved roads, I would suggest replacing the knobblies with slickies. If you don't, the noise will drive you crazy. You don't need the suspension. Get a comfy saddle (I would go for a Brooks, but they're not to everyone's taste…). Fit some handlebars which will give you a variety of riding positions (e.g. trekking bars) - it will make for more comfortable riding.

Good Luck -

- Wil

im just using the frame. i am most def. going to use drop bars. i want to change my rims and tires, but dont really know what i should get.

i am also kicking my suspension for a good fork.

~kyle.

I would actually keep the suspension if it isn't too wild. They have great racks that fit over suspension forks. The suspenssion is cussiony. with 700 wheels one doesn;'t feel the bumps, but with smaller and harder tires you may. If the net extra weight of the suspension is no more than a pound or so, I wouldn't worry too much.

The only thing I would say is you can get a Nashbar touring frame for as low as 150 at various times of the year with various sales. If you are going to have to build a bike up why not start there?