A cyclocross bike makes a pretty decent touring bike. This Bianchi Volpe is set up for "fully loaded" touring. It works well. This bike has over 5,000 miles on it in this configuration. The only trouble I had was after riding straight off a high curb fully loaded. Three spokes in my front wheel broke during the next week. I also think there was some problems with the way my LBS trued the wheels prior to that trip. The spokes were breaking in the nipples, which is notl where spokes normally break. It was not the bikes fault.
Originally posted by: djb
Might not want to jump off curbs, but then that goes for any road bike, and is entirely avoidable.
djb, It was raining, my glasses were covered with water and I thought I was going down a driveway. That's my story and I'm sticking to it
It also make a good do-it-all bike. I take it on club rides when I need fenders or to haul the grocery trailer.
P.S. siggy 2XC, I weigh weigh about the same as you and generally carry 35 lbs not including water. Also use 28mm @100psi when most of the riding is on pavement. I think that is why it feels a little livelier than other touring bikes I have ridden.
