I don't think we disagree but this all started in post 32 when chuck suggested a cyclist need not take any more than a hiker. He was told that, while one need not take more, a bicycle offered certain mechanical advantages.

In post 48 he argued that only came into play on flats and downhills and that he would prefer to hike uphill rather than ride. Again, in most situations it's easier to ride.

Next we will be debating whether it is easier to alpine climb with weight on the back or on a bicycle...

This is the bicycle touring forum and I'm just trying to keep it real. Last trip was over the Rockies and I'm convinced it was easier and faster on a bike than on foot. Climbing Mt. Everest? I think that's another forum.

It's a hauntingly familiar situation wherein someone with little/no experience bike touring tries to tell others how it could be done by relating it to another activity. Hence the troll/sock references.

Just waiting for the whiteblaze plugs to begin.