Touring - touring /w full suspension

I'am somewhat new to touring and i want to know how well a xc full suspension bike would work. Does anybody have any extensive experience touring with one of these. I will be using it on the road and off. I plan on using a BOB trailer.

thanks

I think touring with a full suspension would be a sloppy ride. In my opinion, full suspension is good for only one thing....downhill. I have ridden one x-country once..... once. I would either go with a touring bike... if you are going to use a "bob" trailer... or a road bike... if you are going to use a credit card.

Thanks TLN ,I did not think it would work that well compared to a touring bike, I was just courious if anyone has used one. I have been looking at Jamis Aurora and I think it will fit the bill.

Beware, as I don't own a suspended bike, but only a touring bike. But there are a few issues.

1. Suspension robs you of some power. There is a little up and down swing with each pedal stroke. You can minimise it, but you can't eliminate it completely.

2. Generally speaking, a suspended bike is much heavier than a non-suspended bike.

3. On a long tour, a suspension need some special tools for maintenance and repairs. This means extra stuff to carry around.


With these factors, I would say that using a suspended bike isn't too much a problem if you tour in an inhabited area (LBS close by, so not too many tools to carry), or if you plan a tour on gravel roads (the benefits exceed the drawbacks).

Regards,

Hi. I am also looking at the jamis Aurora as a multi purpose bike. for 03 model, it weight only 21.5lb, should be good enough for leisure racing, touring and commuting.

However, I am worry about the tires clearance of this bike. If the frame cannot accept tires 35mm or wider, There will have problem when riding in trail or carry heavy loads etc. Please try to check it out and let me know. thank you