The Bicycle

My bicycle actually took 18 months of searching before I found the perfect fit. I knew that I wanted a touring bicycle but I found that a lot of the touring bicycles out there were just too big for me, I’m 5ft 2″. I finally discovered the 46cm 26″ wheeled Surly Long Haul Trucker which I bought from Spa Cycles; they were great because they had a whole range of touring bicycles in stock that you could try out.

My first time cycle touring along the Canal Du Midi in France. As you can see I have everything on my rear rack and nothing on my front rack. I was still learning and did not know that what is in your front rack should be heavier than what is in your rear rack. I felt more stable with more weight at the front especially when going uphill heavy front panniers help to keep the wheel on the ground.
My second year cycle touring in France, now with front and rear panniers.

I had my bicycle for about 5 years before I took it on my round the world tour so I had a chance to make a few changes. The best change that I made was the addition of a dynohub which enabled me to charge my gadgets and as well as provide power for my lights.

I have a Dutch style bicycle lock on the rear wheel. I changed the quick release skewers on the wheels to anti-theft skewers. I have a Blackburn handlebar mirror, which was invaluable.

%d bloggers like this: