mosquito

I've been reading that the frame feels light. Does it feel like a bona fide touring bike?

How is the ride? Comfy?

How much was it in British Pounds when you bought it and what was the exchange rate?

I've been giving them heavy consideration. Any help will do.

MichaelW

Ive had mine since 1995. I would class it as a medium tourer, the tyre clearance with fenders is 32mm. Mine uses traditional standard size tubeing (ie not modern over-sized) so it is not as stiff as eg a Surley LHT. The rear triangle is very solid but the steering becomes a bit light when loaded.
I have ridden a lot of off-road trails and climbed big mountains fully loaded and dont get beaten up by the bike.
I think I would prefer a stiffer frame, wider threadless steerer more tyre clearance.

mosquito

I wonder why the tire clearance is so minimal for a touring frame...

Mike_Kelly

Bob Jackson makes the off the shelf (off the peg) World Tourist with a 1" standard steerer and then they will make the custom version they call the Special Tourist.

With the custom you can get a 1 1/8" steerer if you like and custom geometry, braze-ons and paint. Expect a 5-6 month delivery time for customs. You can tell them how you want to use it and they will design it to meet your needs or you can tell them exactly what you want and they will build it just so, but it will be your problem if the design is not right.

Last spring the World Tourist frame was about $600 USD and the custom was $780 usd both plus shipping. The prices as you know will change with exchange rate. I have always thought Bob Jackson is a good value.

Good Luck in your decision.