Hi all,
I've read the very informative sticky thread for newcomers to touring - as usual for these forums, the info. is excellent.
I'm planning my tour - the French section of the "Way of St. James" (or in French, Chemins de St. Jacques), from Le Puy-en-Velay, France, to Roncesvalles, Spain. I intend to go towards the end of July.
My question for you all, is the following: Do I kit out my current cyclocross or try to revamp/recycle my old Raleigh mountain bike?
Here is my CX, a Cannondale Cyclocross Optimo Disc 2:
http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/07/c...del-7XR2C.html
My thoughts, opinions and reservations concerning both options are the following:
- Is the CX suitable? I've purchased both front and rear Nashbar panniers today, and when these are loaded with gear and camping equipment, there will be increased weight on the frame. Is the frame string enough to support this extra weight?
- In terms of racks, as there are no eyelets on the frame, I must purchase the Old Man Mountain racks which will come to about 200euros including postage. I'm on a budget. This is affordable but if it's possible to achieve a cheaper options then that's of interest.
- This CX is my baby, hence I'm concerned about damage to bike, including any scratches. As this would be my maiden tour, I'd love to benefit from the engineering of this bike, while being aware that the varyious enviroments may damage the bike. I couldn't even imagine being comfortable leaving the bike unattended for any duration.
- I'm not familiar with terminology to include chain stay lengths. Would this be an issue for my bike?
- Gearing!! I think this may be a big issue. As it stands, my bike, as just two front rings so I dont have the 'granny' gearing referred to in this forum. Would gearing with the possibly heavy loads be a big problem. I'm a strong cyclist but have not much experience in mountains, and no experience lugging a load.
- I have an old Raleigh mountain bike. I was thinking of recycling the bike, similar to the achievement on this site:
http://www.vwvagabonds.com/Bike/BikeTheBikes.html. I have time on my hands, and envison the costs of the upgrade being within budget - I also anticipate a sense of achievement, and great knowledge gained.
So what do you think? Any pointers, information, tips, advice etc. is greatly appreciated.
All the best, Joey.