The Bike...
What type of bike should I take on such a trip — Mountain bike
or road bike? From my research, so far, it appears that some of
the roads, particularly inland, can be somewhat potholed. So
a mountain bike would seem to be a better option, especially
as I would like to travel off-road wherever possible;
however with all those hills, weight could be an important
factor! In which case, do I compromise strength and
durability for a couple of kilos?
Mind you, as much as
travelling off-road is preferable to on-road, I do not think
this will be a viable option for two main reasons: 1) the
distance I aim to travel in the three weeks will be tough
enough to cover without the additional time it would take
off road. 2) hacking down boulder strewn tracks is never a
good option with fully-laden panniers!
So...I have decided to
opt for a hybrid model and think this one might just fit the
bill: the Specialized Tricross Comp Triple.
The bike has rear rack
mounts and, in spite of the carbon forks, front rack
mounts as well. This is the first bike that I have come
across with this feature and, I have to say, it concerns me
a tad. So much so that it may discipline me to take only
back panniers. Well, aim to take only two and use the front
as overspill.
Anyway, here are the
specs for the 'anoraks' amongst us!
Technical
Specifications —
Click Here
Now that I have
decided on the bike for the journey, the next step is to
make a list items I shall ,or might, require along the way.
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