Originally Posted by
jonwvara
One of the fun things for me is going to be using my father's sun-bleached old Cannondale panniers on this trip. I plan to travel light so hope to get by with the front panniers only.
That's the right attitude. Most people bring too much stuff. I've never crossed the country but I have not had a problem with one pair of panniers and being out 3-4 weeks. I would suggest you use the rear rack to bungee on a dry bag with your tent, sleeping bag and pad; and a pair of lightweight sandals or running shoes.