| The search for a sturdy steed. | | | | to so far. It is ultimately your decision, but check and |
| Before venturing out on your bicycle tour, you of | | | | see the likes and dislikes others have about the bike. |
| course need to buy a bike. There are an increasing | | | | Fourth, try and find the bikes you're looking for |
| number of companies offering touring models these | | | | around time and give them a ride. Different people fit |
| days, so what is offered below are general things to | | | | differently on a bike, so don't assume that just |
| look for when making this important decision. | | | | because it's comfortable for someone else it's going |
| First of all, what kind of roads you'll be touring on will | | | | to be comfortable for you. |
| determine what kind of bike you'll be buying. You | | | | Fifth, make sure the bike is composed of parts you |
| obviously don't want a road touring bike if most of | | | | could easily repair or find replacements for on the |
| your time will be spent on dirt and gravel trails. | | | | road. There is nothing more debilitating than not being |
| So if you are buying a mountain bike for touring, the | | | | able to go on with a tour because you have a break |
| main thing you should be aware of is that suspension | | | | on your bike that nobody stocks a part for. |
| can make it difficult to mount racks and such that | | | | Sixth, remember that you need a bike that can stand |
| your panniers attach to. You either need to come up | | | | up to the weight you're packing with you, if any. You |
| with a solution to the suspension problem, purchase a | | | | can't buy a compact, light-framed racing bike and |
| bike without suspension, or carry your gear some | | | | expect it to handle well with 40lbs of gear on it. A |
| other way, like in a backpack. | | | | sturdy frame and good wheels are two of the most |
| The rest of this advice, now, can be considered for | | | | important parts of a good touring bike. Ask around |
| both a road or a mountain touring bike purchase. | | | | and choose wisely! |
| First, determine your price range. Don't even think | | | | Seventh, see if you can't find one of the models |
| about browsing for a bike beyond your means, you'll | | | | used. eBay, craigslist, or your local classifieds are a |
| only be disappointed with your choice of options. | | | | great place to go. Or, you could call around your local |
| Second, look for models that you like the look of. | | | | shops and see if they have a previous year's version |
| You're going to be riding this thing, so make sure | | | | in stock. You can usually find a decent discount on |
| going to like being seen on it. | | | | these bikes. |
| Third, hop on to forums and online stores and check | | | | Good luck on your purchase, and enjoy the research |
| out reviews for the bikes you've narrowed it down | | | | process! It can be a lot of fun. |