Touring - Touring on an MTB

I'm planning a big ride to last 3 months or so somewhere remote. I'm a keen mountain biker and competent mechanic but have never owned a 'road' framed bike.

As my MTB (GT Zaskar) won't take racks I've looked at the options for suitable 26 inch wheeled bikes (Orbit Romany, Dawes Sardar etc.) but apart from spec and drop handlebars don't see that they're much different to a decent steel mountain bike (e.g. Marin Muirwoods).

Is there anyone out there who's toured on an MTB or even better a Marin Muirwoods who can advise me?

You could probably fit some Old Man Mountain racks on your GT...?

Get a BOB trailer and tow it and your gear behind you.

A trailer is also a great idea. I've been pulling a BOB trailer for short weekend offroad jaunts but found to be a bit of overkill.... so I decided to use rear panniers. But like your GT Zaskar, my frame has no eyelets whatsoever so I purchased an Old Man Mountain Sherpa rack for one of my mountain bikes. This rack is simple and rock solid. I also like the setback....it gives you plenty of heel clearance.

I think a trailer, 'cause you can say lock up where you camp, and go for a trail ride.
Easier to deal with than unhooking panniers etc.
I say etc 'cause I don't like ANYTHING on my frame when trail riding. Also I would think a well designed trailer would be more areo for the long haul than panniers.

Do they make a single wheel trailer that is able to tilt with the bike when cornering?

Might be nicer, more stable to the bike this way.

>jef.

Do they make a single wheel trailer that is able to tilt with the bike when cornering?
>jef.

Actually all single wheeled trailers tilt with the bike. They also track exactly behind your rear wheel.

Actually all single wheeled trailers tilt with the bike. They also track exactly behind your rear wheel.

Thanks for pointing out my lack of knowlage, I was unaware this trailer exists, I was just thinking about design.

I'll probably build my own, do you perhaps have a link to a company who makes this type?
I can research myself, but a quick link would be nice.

Thanks, jef.

Nashbar had the best deal on Yakima Big Tow single wheeled trailer for $135 but I believe they're all gone now. Their site no longer lists it... it was there just a week ago...

I've been using the BOB trailer for some time now....
http://www.bobtrailers.com/

Those are super nice, thanks. I just may get one. Going to tour the Gulf Island soon and that 'Bob' would fit the bill exactly. I'll do a search for the Yakima, maybe one will pop up on ebay.

>jef.