Long Distance Cycling - Specialized Hardrock Key West Ride

Hey, what's up????

I have a 1998 Hardrock sport and planning on riding from Miami to Key West, it's approx. 170 mile... The bike is completely stock and would like to get some suggestions on what should be swapped out. Here's what's on the bike

Answer Manitou Pro (front shock) (Still have the original metal fork)
Aheadset (threadless headset)
Sram front triple MRX 200-10
Sram rear 7 speed MRX 200-70
Acera X front derailleur
Shimano A rear derailleur
175 crank (It also has these numbers on the crank and I don't know what it means 6-4 right 6-5 left)
42-34-24 crank
Avid Single digit brakes
Stock handle bars
Bar ends
Frame Pump
Toe clip
V shaped saddle (by Specialized, don't remember the model)
1 water bottle hold, planning on adding another one (thanks for reminding me BillB58)
Saddle bag expandable (Specialized)

Do you guys think that it's possible to complete a ride like this with the bike? The longest that I've ever ridden has been 50 miles and that was a long while ago. I've only done that twice, also a couple 40 milers and the occasional ride in the park and nieghborhood. I've also search this site to gather additional information but wanted to get your opinion on my specific issue.

Any tips or suggestion would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Joe

As long as what you have is well maintained, you should be able to easily do this ride. Check and double check the qualtiy of your tires, and carry spare tubes....You don't indicate your time frame....assume you are planning on 2-3 days...if you are thinking of doing it non stop, then I would reconsider your plan.

When you get to Homestead, do not plan on following US1 to Key Largo.....take the longer, but infinitely safer back way via Rt 997 which joins Rt 905.. In my opinion, the stretch from Homestead to Key Largo on US1 is the only really dangerous section of your trip.

I didn't see any water bottle holders on your equipment list.....

Have a great trip!

The only discomfort that I feel is after riding for some time, my hands start to bother me. For me it feels as if the handle bars are too low. Sometimes I but my elbows on the handlebars against the bar ends in order to get comfortable. Maybe I could change the stem to a longer one. I'm still trying to understand how they are measured.

Thanks for the info....

I've got a '97 HardRock that I've rode a few centuries on. I replaced the original suspension fork with a rigid fork and use 1.4" Ritchey Tom Slicks (http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=1443&srccode=2047&cm_mmc=Froogle-_-Datafeed-_-null-_-null).

My palms usually end up hurting if I ride it that far because I don't have bar ends....but sounds like you've got that covered.