Originally Posted by
jefnvk
While I disagree about rules and points, one nice thing about "cheap bike challenges" is that they provide a good base of how to do things on a budget. Not everyone has $3000 to spend on a custom rig to take off for months in the Outback, many may want to start out with a weekend trip of the state parks near their home without breaking the bank.
....
I went on my first outback tour to Australia when I was 58. At that stage of life I was married with sons in university, and was nearing the end of my career. With my
5th near death experience, I decided to start bicycle touring.
I now have 2 custom made bicycles, a Brompton folder, and an Indian copy of a 30s or 40s British roadster. I take my grown sons to countries where they can surf, and I still indulge myself in bicycle solo touring. But now I am almost 70. I have been a diabetic since 1964 and don't use a car much because I don't have the need anymore... Not as concerned with "making it" as when I was younger. Different priorities, I suppose
Yes, I understand that younger folks don't have $3000 to spend on a custom bicycle. Been there. 20 y.a. I didn't have the $$ to buy a replacement FD for my 1974 10-speed Peugeot. Now at almost 70 I fly Business class and still enjoy sleeping in the outback on bike tours, self-supported.
I hope
you will keep your bicycle touring interest until you reach my age and have great tours.
