Touring - Bilenky

Hi folks,

I'm planning my first tour this summer: Northern Tier eastbound Seattle to Chicago. I'm still unsure what the right bike is for me. My persistent dream bike has been the Bilenky Midlands (http://www.bilenky.com/prod39spcl05.html) with S&S couplings. I know there are less (and more!) expensive solutions but I keep telling myself that the value of handbuilt steel and the couplers is an investment that will pay for itself. Price is a limiting factor as I'm a fourth year college student, that's why I linked to the cheapest touring bike BCW makes!. Any experience with BCW or S&S couplers, or even northern tier?

Tomas from Michigan

Bilenky installed S&S couplers for me and my wife on our touring bikes and did a great job. I'm sure that they're a good choice for a frame too.

I had an older Mercian converted to S&S by Bilenky as well as some other braze-ons done and a new paint job with new decals. Stephen was great to work with. I also had a friend order an S&S frame from them that he's very happy with. Go for it!

I purchased a Tourlite with S&S couplings from them last year, and I couldn't be happier. I feel the fit is spot on, and the bike is great looking and functional. I did my first tour on the Blue Ridge this past year, and with 25-30lbs on the rear I never once felt like the bike was unstable or I had to hold back while descending. I've also used it for group rides and some commuting with no issues.

Coupling are nice although packing is fairly involved, and not something I would want to do if I travelled a whole bunch.

If I have one knock I think the paints a little soft. It seems to chip and scratch easily, although I had a rush order and I'm wondering if the paint was fully cured. Personally if I got another coupled bike I'd have it powder coated.

Bottom line is if I get a dedicated touring bike it will be from them.

Mark

Thanks for the advice guys, I think I'll go for it!

I've had my Bilenky (with S+S) for 12 years. I can't imagine a more versatile or durable bike.