Touring - Long wheelbase bikes for touring

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botak
05-27-09, 07:31 AM
hi, this is my first post here :D been bitten by the touring bug ans is planning on doing one soon.
i have a silly question.
How practical are the long wheelbase bikes (e.g. kona ute or surly big dummy) for touring?
i am interested in their bigger load carrying capacity.... but wonder if climbing and maintainence will be an issue.

thanks

rhm
05-27-09, 08:03 AM
I haven't tried it. That said, I don't see why climbing would be an issue, provided the bike has appropriate gearing. Maintenance issues should be the same regardless the type of bike, so I wouldn't worry about that either.

Long wheelbase bikes tend to be very comfortable, which is a big plus.

On the down side, they would also tend to be heavier. Also, the longer frame would mean more trouble and expense if your tour involves shipping the bike.
Barrettscv
05-27-09, 08:17 AM
Also look at the Salsa Fargo. It's not an Xtracycle, but it's a beefy touring bike.

njkayaker
05-27-09, 04:24 PM
hi, this is my first post here :D been bitten by the touring bug ans is planning on doing one soon.
i have a silly question.
How practical are the long wheelbase bikes (e.g. kona ute or surly big dummy) for touring?
i am interested in their bigger load carrying capacity.... but wonder if climbing and maintainence will be an issue.

thanks

What are you planning on carrying that needs such a bike?

Riding is easier with less stuff to carry.
Mr. Jim
05-27-09, 05:58 PM
There is a thread on this topic in the Utility forum atm.

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=545339