Originally Posted by
doughmaker
In August of this year I am planning my first 'tour' - I am going from Irelands most Northernly point to the most southernly point - Mailn Head to Mizen Head - approx 400 miles. 4 days cycling. I am with 2 friends - we are not planning on camping - cheap b&bs on the way down.
I plan to take a toothbrush, evening clothes (shoes light trackie bottom and top) plus 2 tubes and mini pump.
My problem is: what is the best way to carry this small load.
We are competitive guys and plan to push the pace on good carbon fibre bikes so therefore want something that won't drag us down or damage the bikes.
Any help appreciated...
Thanks
With the amount of stuff you will be carrying, I don't see why you couldn't just use a lightweight drybag tucked in and lashed to the rails under the saddle -- or perhaps lashed inside the main triangle (using a lashing material that won't mar, abrade, or damage the tubing).
There are also different sizes available in saddle packs (ready-made under-the-saddle bags, seat bags or 'wedges') -- anything from very small units that will carry a tube, very basic small tools, and a credit card, up to larger units that could probably accommodate what you will be taking, if you keep all of the items as compact as possible.
http://www.universalcycles.com/shopp...?category=1800
There are additional models and user comments and reviews here:
http://www.rei.com/category/4500851
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Some shoes are much more minimalist, compact and lightweight than others -- some track shoes, for example, or dancing slippers.
Some fabrics will pack way down, much more than most of them.
Shoes or sandals can also be lashed on separately; but the minimalist ones could probably fit inside some of the wedges.