Touring - tire choice for a south american tour

i have been researching bikes, and like many people in this forum and on the web generally, am drawn to the trek 520 for its apparent bomb proofness and stability. my concern, however, is that if i head south, i won't be able to locate tires when and where i need them. is this a big enough issue to warrant getting a bike that takes 26" tires?

Possibly. I'll be cycling into South America soon, but am riding a mountain bike with 26' tires. I rode a couple weeks with a German cyclist who had larger tires. I forget the measurements. But he had it rigged for his buddy back home to send him reinforcements in Central and South America.

By the way, when and where do you plan on touring?

Peace

Dave

Unless you plan on being "in the outback" for months on end without even access to a post office, I'd say just plan on using high quality touring tires and carry a spare casing. I'd recommend Conti Top Touring in 32 or 37c.

Dave

Have a look lower down on this Touring section of this formum at the post called
'Poll: For real now'

There is a link to the SJSC web site, which has a whole section on which tire is best for what conditions

There are also at least two books written about cycling in South America, and a lot of info available on the Lonley Planet, Thorn Tree site

Post on this thread if you can't find any of the above and I'll set my search engines to work

I think Bruce Gorden makes his well priced BLT in 26" wheel size as well as 700c. It worth looking at, since he makes real expedition tourers and his rack systems are most excellent.
The 520 will need a bit of tweaking to make a good expedition bike, so bear that in mind when looking at the cost.

If you have the choice , then a 26" tourer will probably suit you better.