Originally Posted by
racosav
well now i have decided to take up bike touring, but doing it in a bit more "safe" way.. i guess you could say. I have been reading through a few sites forums etc and have learned alot. but i am just wandering what you guys think should be my first purchases on upgrading my bike when it comes to parts and gear, brands etc? it seems so overwhelming, if you could understand that, i mean diving into a new hobbie, all the brands are just to confusing.
This was your first trip. It worked out well enough that you're now looking to do more cycle touring. The trip was a learning experience and you now know better what you can expect next time you're on the road.
Before you make any purchases, evaluate your trip. Write down everything about the trip — how far you went, how the roads were, where you stayed, what you ate, how you spent the nights and anything else that comes to mind. Then write out what went right and what went wrong. Did you have mechanical problems? Did your gear work for you? Were you comfortable? Did you take things you didn't need or did you miss some essentials? From this evaluation, you'll know what upgrades you'll need, if any.
The evaluation is something I do every time I get back from a tour. Others will do something similar. Each trip is a learning experience and will help you prepare for the next one.
If your bike is in good mechanical condition, you probably don't need to do any upgrades to it. For the rest of your gear, it will depend to a degree on where you're touring, how you're touring and what you can afford.
Don't rush into purchases. Take your time, ask questions and consider your needs. Bike touring is an ongoing evolution, not an instant transformation. Enjoy every part of the process.