thanks tarwheel. yup, i do feel as though I am in adequate "shape". if the trip trims ten pounds, well, the pedaling gets that much easier as I go.

regarding rain gear, what there are links to what i've ordered (it already shipped) in the post preceeding yours. please check it out.

i am nearly convinced about dropping the trailer out of the plan. I definately will only pack what can be stowed on the bike, in the event of a 'trailer failure'. so many folks have chimed in that i should drop the trailer... i will load the bike panniers before I make this call, never having packed for a tour before. I wont even unpack the trailer from the shipping box until i 'winnow' my list until I can carry everything on the bike - then I'll likely punt the trailer - who needs another ten pounds. I bought the trailer because I had planned to use a specialized sworks tricross (no eyelets, semi compact frame, a double needing $$ to become a triple, with better wheels, etc), the guy at the LBS said, sure, go for it, I'll sell you the 520 when you get back, you'll WANT IT, and I'll make more money because you are trying to make your tricross into something it isn't, I'll get parts and labor for that hopeless task AND you'll want the 520. I like his style. very convincing, but seems not to care about the trailer. though he recommends panniers that would make it not needed, so maybe h'll drop that though on me as he preps me for the trip.

THe reason I am uneasy about this is

1. folks that used this trailer loved it. You dont know its there, bike is light, the rig is supposed to handle very well.

2. dont know about 'driving' a loaded bike. wont have much experience before departing. will do a couple overnighters first, about 30 miles away from home. But then I dont have any experience pulling a trailer either, execially not tipping over when stopped, handling tricky situations, etc.

the reason I'd like to punt the trailer:

1. feedback on this forum
2. unsteadyness when stopped on the bike
3. tendency to overpack just because i have the space
4. a loaded trek 520 might just 'ride' better than an unloaded one. after all its designed for it
5. hassle of second floor motel rooms, stopping for lunch (single wheel trailer)

gee, 2 items in the 'pro' list. 5 in the 'con' list hmmmmmm.

feedback? especially on the loaded vs unloaded trek 520 ride quailities?