Introductions - Newbie, Staffordshire, UK

Hi folks,

I feel like I'm begining to develop a bit of a bug for cylce touring.

I'm currently looking for the right hybrid bike as don't want to be fully restrained to concrete and tarmac. I posted a thread last night and have already benifited from some excellent advice. This forum will be invaluable to me as I continue the process of gearing myself up and kitting myself out for frequent but short tours around the UK - probably 1 week at a time max for first year or so (due to young family and work commitments).

I look for to contributing to what seems like a fantastic resource.

Could anyone recommend any interesting/inspiring books on cycle tours/expeditions etc. I have already seen some interesting travel logs on the site which I mean to read when I have the time.

Many thanks,

BB :)

Hello BB, sorry for not welcoming you earlier, been busy, usual bull****. I too thought about a good hybrid and settled for the Claud Butler urban 200. The bike is exclent as I tour with full camping kit and love to go off road. There are a few modifications needed on this, get a new rear wheel with more spokes, and a cassette hub since I have done this I have not broken a single spoke. Also I changed the gearing from 21 to 24. The bike carries 25 kg approx and goes everywhere

Thanks,

I was beginning to feel like Billy-no-mates there. Thanks for the Claud Butler, I'll check it out.

BB

Na my man dont feel like Billy No mates, everyone is really freindly and warm to all, its just a combination of less traffic on the site, and people not reading new posts thats all, normally you post a question and you always get a massive global response backed by huge number of experienced riders you not only saw the film, wore the T shirt but probably wrote the book..... :D

Cheers fella. I'm already becoming rather addicted to roaming around these forums - and searching online bikes shops for my new ride to be. Haven't done anything constructive at my computer for days now!

Darren ;)