Bicycle

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A touring bicycle

If there's a common question when it gets to bicycle travel, 'What kind of bicycle should I use ?' is definitely in the top 10. The best answer is 'The one you like !' but we can get a little more precise. There are a few things you need to look when choosing a bicycle for touring: you need something strong, simple and, if possible, light. Independently of the type of bicycle you'll choose, here are some important points you should be careful about:

[edit] Frame

Good example of a compact geometry frame, notice how the handlebar is above the seat post.

[edit] Geometry

Of course, the size must fit you. You then need to choose between standard or compact geometry. Standard geometry, with the top tube horizontal is more stable but you have to bend more on the bike, the handlebar being usually below the top of the seat post. On the opposite, compact geometry allows better handling and a more raised position, the handlebar being above the seat post.

[edit] Material

There are two main choices: steel or aluminum. Steel is heavy but more stronger than aluminum allowing smaller tube section inducing a higher flexibility in the frame and thus more comfort. Steel can also be repaired pretty much everywhere in the world. Aluminum is lighter but requires bigger tube sections than steel, inducing low flexibility. Finding a place to repair a aluminum frame can be a real challenge in some countries.

[edit] Eyelets

Eyelets are holes in the frame to allow fixation for racks. And you need them ! Some alternative fixation systems exist but they usually require special parts that will be hard to find in case of a break. If you intend to use front panniers, make sure the front fork is equipped with eyelets. Eyelets also allow fixation of water bottle holders on the down and seat tubes.

[edit] Wheels size

Here again, two choices, 700c or 26". Basically, 700c is more road oriented because its higher development allows higher speeds, 26" is more useful if you will ride on dirt roads. 700c sizes tubes are said to be harder to find than 26".

[edit] Handlebar

Touring bicycle, the one in the back is equipped with butterfly handlebar

Every type of handlebar is suitable for touring. The most common used to be the race type handlebar for the many positions it allows for your hands. Nowadays, mountain bike style handlebars are seen more and more. Butterfly handlebars are still very rare though they're said to be made for tourers. If someone has pictures of handlebars please upload them !

[edit] Touring Bikes manufacturers

• Bianchi - Touring bikes and accessories.

• Bilenky Cycle Works - Touring bikes and accessories.

• Raleigh - Raleigh bikes.

• Cannondale - Bikes and accessories

• Koga Miyata - Bicycles

• Specialized - Bikes and bikes equipment

• VSF Fahrradmanufaktur - City and touring bikes

• Roberts Cycles - Custom Made Touring Bicycles

• Vagabonde Cycles - Custom Made Touring Bicycles and Mountain bikes

• Surly - City and touring bikes

[edit] More Touring Bikes Informations

• Bicycle Touring Pro - Daren Alff Blog about bicycle touring. Features an interesting list of touring bicycles.