Been on this route at least halfway by bike anyway. The other half was by car on diving trips years back. It would be great to have time to stop and smell the roses, but alas thats not to be for a few years yet. To even get a Sunday ride in I have to be out the door at 3am. Getting two days? A miracle I intend to cash in on. As for road forums, my low tech creation wouldn't fit in. Too heavy and not aero enough. Besides I know what I'd get there... "you need drop bars." Tried those, hated them.

One thing though... anyone seen an 8 speed freewheel cassette with fairly close spacing? I don't want mega range, but I do want a good spread between 11-18t.