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Old 08-03-11 | 11:46 AM
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badger_biker
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 1,516
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From: Rural Western Wisconsin

Bikes: Down to 4 vintage touring machines

threecarjam is right - they are relatively scarce and that is probably why you haven't see one loaded. I think BS only made them one or two years and they are a fine example of everything you'd ever want in a full touring bike frame. I worked in a LBS that sold Bridgestones the year before they came out with the T series and have always wished I would have been able to get one.

Before I got a dedicated touring bike I toured on my Bridgestone 400 fully loaded with no issues. I think you'll find the frame is stiffer and possibly more solid with a load than some highly acclaimed tourers like the Trek 720 or Specialized Expedition. At least I've found that to be the case with my Expedition.

I don't think you can go wrong with it if the size fits you. I went with a Schwinn Voyageur as a stiffer alternate to my Exp but would have snapped up a T700 in a flash if I could have found one. My Voyageur has 27" wheels and with 1 1/4" Continental Gatorskins it rides like a dream and I have no desire to switch to 700c.

Good luck with the T700!
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