Bicycle Touring

[TheHangingTechy]

Just got some wicked Ortlieb Panniers too assist in my bike travels. With hammock of course. This is also my means to get to work. I do have a car but this is more rewarding and way...way cheaper on gas and other vehicle related expenses.

http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery/files/9/3/5/2/img_0074_thumb.jpg (http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=14108&c=14)

http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery/files/9/3/5/2/img_0073_thumb.jpg (http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=14107&c=14)

My setup. Eno double in the bags. Cooler on top for work commute.

Any thoughts on this? anyone else join hammocks with their bikes?

[Tendertoe]

Haven't done any personally, but always dream of it and live vicariously through folks at www.crazyguyonabike.com

Looks like a nice setup.

[Ramblinrev]

There has a lot of discussion regarding bike touring both on and off road. I did it many many years ago (>40). What I didn't know I didn't know would fill a book.

[blackswift]

I like that... sweet setup.

[Riverpirate]

I have been looking at touring bikes myself. Which bike are you using?

[TheHangingTechy]

I have been looking at touring bikes myself. Which bike are you using?

I'm using a giant Boulder SE x-road bike circa 05' had it for years. My first mountain bike. Luckily it still fits well enough. Out of nessesity with gas prices I converted it to touring with a simple rear rack by Sunlite and the Ortlieb backroller classic panniers the cooler is an REI 2 person cooler.

If i had the money i would go straight for a touring specific bike. Like surly or trek. The shocks on the front are gone in the way of dampening and rebound but its a real butt saver at times.

I also have a Garmin Vista HCX using a RAM-MOUNT to attach it.

Overall really enjoy it for travels and day trips. I just need bar ends and a taller riser to ease the pressure on my hands.

[Alamosa]

Those are some sharp looking bags. They really expand! What is the capacity?

[Ramblinrev]

Do you prefer bar ends over the twist grip found on many MT and hybrid bikes? I've used both and prefer the twist grip. But that's just me.

[TheHangingTechy]

Those are some sharp looking bags. They really expand! What is the capacity?

Capacity is 2441 cubic inches or 40L for the metric world. I have a 2650 cubic inch Kelty Redwing for day trips and i can say it can REALLY pack in some equipment. The bags may have that calculated volume but i have found that its just-not-the-same as my Kelty in the way of how much i can fit in it.

but that is just comparing apples to oranges.
:D

EDIT: I would also like to note that they do not mention at which amount of "rolled closure" that capacity is calculated.

[TheHangingTechy]

Do you prefer bar ends over the twist grip found on many MT and hybrid bikes? I've used both and prefer the twist grip. But that's just me.

I prefer bar ends with a straight grip for maneuverability . i loath the twist grip shifters if thats what you are referring too. It seems ever manufacture places them in such a way that i accidentally shift gears when I get a comfortable grip.

i have thumb and index finger shifters on this bike and I love them on these handle bars.

[Ramblinrev]

I prefer bar ends with a straight grip for maneuverability . i loath the twist grip shifters if thats what you are referring too. It seems ever manufacture places them in such a way that i accidentally shift gears when I get a comfortable grip.

i have thumb and index finger shifters on this bike and I love them on these handle bars.

Doh.... I just forgot I am using 45 year old terminology. Sheesh... I'dating myself. Of course I am a cheap date.

[Pro Vagabond]

due to gas prices, and other bills, today was my first day riding my bicycle to work. 15 miles rounds trip. Doesn't sound like much until you get out there and realize you haven't riden in years and the bike is OLD. But, gets me back and forth to work. Saves a couple bucks a week that I can put toward more gear...:D

[Rug]

Don't overlook recumbent bikes! Look in my gallery for pics. (I use Arkel 60L panniers and an Arkel tail-rider too.)

[MedicineMan]

I used to use panniers/frame racks but there is another way:
http://www.revelatedesigns.com/
I've learned that my hammock/UQ/TQ and tarp will fit into an eVent dry/compression bag and fit under the handlebars or on a minimalist rack above the front tire.
Minimalist rack: http://salsacycles.com/components/minimalist_rack/
My food/stove/fuel go into this bag: https://www.revelatedesigns.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=store.catalog&CategoryID=4&ProductID=7
The frame bag at Revelate holds my camp clothes and bike tools.
Camera/wallet go into the Revelate 'gas tank' which mounts on the top tube next to the stem.
This system works with or without the minimalist rack.
For water I use the Salsa Anything Cage-it can also carry a small tent or whatever you want to put there: http://salsacycles.com/components/anything_cage/
What this allows you to do is completely avoid panniers if you want to and avoid the metal racks to carry the panniers. It's just lightweight backpacking/hammocking kit applied to a bike.
A lot of my kit is specific to Salsa bikes but the frame bag is made to fit whatever bike you are using. The name of the game is of course weight reduction and less fiddle factor...seems like I used to fiddle with panniers-not a lot once they are dialed in, but the frame bag,seat bag, etc. just make it simpler AND you wont be tempted to pack too much. The tube bag easily holds 3 days food.
I sometimes use a rear rack that is pannier capable but it alone weighs more than all the bags I mentioned above :)

[FalconRider]

In about 2 weeks, a friend and I will be riding the C&O canal towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage on our recumbents. I drove to the Pine Grove Furnace hanging to see what these things were all about. I was very impressed. I got home and bought a Hennessey Expedition on-line, specifically for this bike trip. I still haven't spent a night in it, plan on doing that tomorrow night in the back yard. I live in the city and only have one tree in the yard, so I figured a way to hang it from the roof supports of my back porch. We have been getting a lot of thunderstorms and I will only be half under roof, so it should be a good test for bad weather as well.

[kobold]

Just got some wicked Ortlieb Panniers too assist in my bike travels. With hammock of course. This is also my means to get to work. I do have a car but this is more rewarding and way...way cheaper on gas and other vehicle related expenses.


My setup. Eno double in the bags. Cooler on top for work commute.

Any thoughts on this? anyone else join hammocks with their bikes?

i never owned a car or a drivers license and i am proud of it somewhat. for me biking is the way to go most of the time and combined with trains i can get to most places. i am also thinking about getting a christiania trailer for shopping and hauling gear around. my ortliebs look exactly the same, only in blue, but be careful, they are not 100% waterproof :eek:

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/picture.php?albumid=1012&pictureid=7333

those cat eyes are really efficient though:

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/picture.php?albumid=1012&pictureid=7436

[TheHangingTechy]

...they are not 100% waterproof...

Have you experienced a leak? how?

[TheHangingTechy]

Don't overlook recumbent bikes! Look in my gallery for pics. (I use Arkel 60L panniers and an Arkel tail-rider too.)

Awesome recumbent. I've always wanted to test ride one of those, i think i would like them.

[MedicineMan]

Kobold-thanks for the great pics!
FalconRider-please post a trip report when you get back. I hate the fact you can't camp (easily stealth wise) on the Alleghany! so please let me know where you stayed each night.

[DemostiX]

Among commercial panniers, only some Arkels made for tandems are as big as the Ortlieb appears in the first photo. That Ortlieb design is a roll top. It has a reputation for excellence of seal with the cost of some extra material. None better for rafting and circumstances where water may come from any direction. Unless damaged, they can be counted on to float.

[kobold]

Have you experienced a leak? how?

i am not sure how, but suspect the material is not fully water proof. while the material looks and feels ok - smooth and rubbery to the touch on the inside - and the top was rolled up 3-4 times... still, both bags got wet on the inside after a very intense hour-long shower. that happened only once and it was not horribly wet inside, but still something to keep in mind.

[TheHangingTechy]

i am not sure how, but suspect the material is not fully water proof. while the material looks and feels ok - smooth and rubbery to the touch on the inside - and the top was rolled up 3-4 times... still, both bags got wet on the inside after a very intense hour-long shower. that happened only once and it was not horribly wet inside, but still something to keep in mind.

Thank you i will

[Kanguru]

I ride this...

http://www.catrike.com/catrike_road.html

When I grow up I'm going to get a 2 wheeler...:laugh:

And haul these...

http://www.axiomgear.com/products/gear/bags/panniers/champlain-dlx/

Hold plenty of stuff...need big bags since I can't haul things anywhere else but rear rack.

[Ramblinrev]

Among commercial panniers, only some Arkels made for tandems are as big as the Ortlieb appears in the first photo.

Long have I lusted after Arkel panniers. I did buy the old style hangers (before they were cam lock). They are fabulous on my DIY bags. I highly recommend them. They used to be available separately. I assume they still are.

[Riverpirate]

I think I am going to get the Trek 520 for my touring bike.

[pinkgrips236]

What a fitting topic this is!

Bikes and hammocks go together as nicely as cheezeburgers and peanut butter!

I have been a rider for longer than I've been a hanger, but hanging has definitely changed the way I plan for longer rides. One of the trickiest things was always figuring out what to do with tent poles. Besides the higher-capacity Arkel's, I don't know of any pannier company that makes a specific spot for poles. This meant I was always clumsily strapping poles to my rear rack or top tube.

...and then hammocks came along and eliminated that problem altogether. After picking up my GT Nano, its silly not to always have it in my bag.

I currently have a 90's Bridgestone X0 with front and rear JANDD racks, use JANDD panniers, thumb shifter, TITEC J-BARS, and a small silver airplane with a prop that goes nuts when you go fast. Definitely a fine setup.

I would also recommend a visit to crazyguyonabike.com, as you can spend as much time looking at bikes as you can at hammocks. For some harmless bike ogling, I would go for fully loaded touring.http://www.pbase.com/canyonlands/fullyloaded.

[plaunius]

I just saw this thread for the first time. Last summer when I was in much better condition, I took several overnighters from the house either north on the Natchez Trace to Kosciusko where there is a bike only camp ground (61 miles) or south on the Natchez Trace to Rocky Springs public campground (60 miles). Since it's pretty hot in Ms, I took my ENO but would probably prefer my Speer now since it has the incorporated bug net.

My bike is a Bacchetta Cosa recumbent and since it can't take any extra weight after my fat butt, I tow a Burley Nomad.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/pshasta/RockySprings.jpg

[Riverpirate]

How do you like the nomad?

[mtndragon]

Bicycle touring is what originally led me to hammocking and this site. I really like the combo when I know there will be a place to hang. Slightly worried how it is going to work if I have to bring the 1/4" gossamer gear pad for when there might not be a place to hang because my set up is pretty streamlined:
http://mtndragon.smugmug.com/photos/1239694746_vuMt4-M.jpg

I like the way bicycles and hammocks work together though-

http://mtndragon.smugmug.com/photos/1239693570_8CNNB-M.jpg

http://mtndragon.smugmug.com/photos/1239698544_PMxSL-M.jpg

[plaunius]

How do you like the nomad?
Any trailer is heavier than panniers and given the choice, I'd rather haul it than tow it.

With that said I like the Nomad. It tracks really well and In good weather, I take the cover and side walls off and strap my equipment in dry bags and that saves some weight. One thing I never understood is that the Nomad is supposed to weigh 14.8 and the Flatbed is 14.3. When I strip it down to make what is essential a flatbed, the stuff I take off seems a lot more than 5oz. The wheel are the heaviest part and if I were still using it, I'd have looked into a set of lighter wheels and smaller tires. With some tweaking, you could get it to 12-12.5.

I had a hard time filling it. It's 6400 cu in and while I know that I was only going out for two days but my gear wouldn't be a lot different for longer trips.

Here is a friend I ride with who has a recumbent very similar to mine with a higher weight limit. I rode his loaded and prefer his setup to mine. Sorry, it's a large picture. :eek:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/pshasta/photo1.jpg

[DemostiX]

Here, here.

Size as much as weight led me to a Nano from an admittedly way-too-large for biking Clark deluxe. Complete rig w. generous tarp compressed into 24oz both by weight and volume.

Bu, you can't post such fine and rare piks without a few labels for the gear!! Not just the tarp: who built that wood shelter you found to protect from UV ?:D

And unusual, to me, mounting of additional water bottle(s) on the bike fork. Nice balance for rear. Do be aware, too, that around 1950 TdF riders mounted their bottles on the handlebar. That's still possible.

[Ramblinrev]

I've towed a trailer with 16" wheels and one with smaller wheels. I prefer the larger wheels. It seems the larger wheels roll easier and take rough roads better. The smaller wheels can be lighter but that can be offset by the additional work to deal with less than perfect surfaces. Like everything else I think there is a trade off.

Edit: If you are talking about smaller profile tires but the same wheel size then my post is moot. Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.

[Ramblinrev]

Do be aware, too, that around 1950 TdF riders mounted their bottles on the handlebar. That's still possible.

I have found for the drop bars and shifters used for road racing the handle bar water mounts work and I used them for years. But with the touring bars and the display panels that they often put on the bars to show gearing now I don't see a bar mount working _for me_. I have my light there and there is no more room. I have used an under tube mount for a spare bottle but the geometry has to be right to allow that to work. Now I like riding with a hydration pack over water bottles anyway. So for me the question is moot.

[plaunius]

I've towed a trailer with 16" wheels and one with smaller wheels. I prefer the larger wheels. It seems the larger wheels roll easier and take rough roads better. The smaller wheels can be lighter but that can be offset by the additional work to deal with less than perfect surfaces. Like everything else I think there is a trade off.

Edit: If you are talking about smaller profile tires but the same wheel size then my post is moot. Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.

Not smaller in diameter. By wheels, I mean rims and by tires I mean rubber. What I wouldn't give for a 16' set of ALX Comp Tri wheels with Kendra 23c tires but I doubt they exist.

[Ramblinrev]

might these (http://www.aerospoke.com/1/258/recumbent_trike.asp) work?

[TheHangingTechy]

might these (http://www.aerospoke.com/1/258/recumbent_trike.asp) work?

ohh man i would love to get my hands on those... the bike racks on the buses keep wrecking the true on my wheels

[Ramblinrev]

Thirty some years ago I got a set of Shimano Low Flange Durace alloy hubs paired with Mavic 28mm alloy rims for Christmas. My fiance... now wife... could not figure out why I was so excited. Silly people.... don't know a good thing when they see it.

[MedicineMan]

MtnDragon--my hats off to you...sweet sweet go anywhere rig!
If you have to carry a pad I'm sure you've thought of the NeoAir...the med size would fit somewhere in your kit for just in case.

[mtndragon]

MtnDragon--my hats off to you...sweet sweet go anywhere rig!
If you have to carry a pad I'm sure you've thought of the NeoAir...the med size would fit somewhere in your kit for just in case.

Thanks MM, I have a borderline unhealthy obsession with that bike. I have looked at the NeoAir, but I have a collection of air sleeping pads (BA, Thermarest, etc) that all have slow leaks in them, and I have given up on the whole airpad thing. If I need a pad because I am going to ground, I am most likely in an area with sharp things on the ground (desert, above treeline) and no longer trust myself with an air sleeping pad.

[MedicineMan]

MtnDragon-did Eric do your frame bag? I'm still waiting and waiting but I know it will be worth it....nice frame too, that's something else i'm waiting and waiting for.

[mtndragon]

Eric indeed made the bag. I sent a deposit in November, and got my bag in March, although I delayed sending him the tracing, so that increased lag time a bunch. Revelate (http://www.revelatedesigns.com/index.cfm) has been getting a bit of press lately, and I think he is getting buried in requests for custom bags.

As soon as I received my bag from him, I got in the queue for another bag for my mountain bike because, well, his stuff is just that good. I had really high expectations going into the whole Relevate frame bag thing, and I can say his product significantly exceeded my expectations. Revelate, like Warbonnet, is one of those cottage products that just absolutely rock in every way. It never leaves my bike, and it has really made my bicycle much more functional.

In short, it will be worth the wait.

[MedicineMan]

I don't mind waiting except for carrying the excess metal but the minimalists racks aren't that bad in the mean time. I'm hoping Salsa (or anyone for that matter) puts some minimalists out in Ti.

[FalconRider]

Just got back from a 6 day bicycle ride from Pittsburgh to Cornwall, PA via the GAP, C&O, and of course, highways. Happy to report that I successfully camped with my Hennessey every night. Medicine Man, I believe you were asking me to post where we camped. We stayed on the trail four nights: Roundbottom primitive campsite, Husky Haven (private campground in Rockwood, PA, $10/person), then two primitive sites on the C&O. Our final night was in the back yard of someone who offered it up when we couldn't find a campsite/motel in Central PA.

[Crash]

Last year when I retired, I dug out my mtn. bike (Raleigh) and 30 yr old panniers (Cannondales- hardly used). I rode and camped along the Greenbrier river Trail & the C&O Canal trail. Biking & hammocking go perfect together cause sometimes you never know where you are going to stop for the night.
And sitting on a bike all day my back needs a real rest. The comfort of a hammock makes the ride so much nicer. One real hot day I set my hammock up for an afternoon snooze to recover. Easier than a tent and mattress setup.

[Crash]

I'm heading back out to the Greenbrier River trail the first week of August. The trail is great for the many campsites, privies, and water pumps they have. We may then ride the West Fork Trail nearby.

I put a rack on the front of the mtn. bike with a small bag to hold food & drinks. The front suspension rack was $16 @ the bike shop. The sleep bag is in a waterproof bag on top of the rear rack. The H-hammock takes up less room on the bike than a tent & mattress.

The Ortleibs are on my wish list - bigger capacity & waterproof.

[Lost_Biker]

All I've had for the last 7 years is a bicycle. I now have a van for doing my work, but the bike is my preferred form of transportation. First pic (left) is from 10 years ago going across America and the second (right) is my more modern steel steed going across America again last year. I love cycle touring. :)

[mtndragon]

Here are a couple of pics from my trip this week. I think I will be able to make 3 day trips with this load; I was very happy with how it pedaled up hill and the hammock sure makes the camp part of touring nice.

http://mtndragon.smugmug.com/Bicycles/20117sub24/i-4TZ6Zvs/0/M/IMG1081-M.jpg

http://mtndragon.smugmug.com/Bicycles/20117sub24/i-NBdq4vr/0/M/IMG1087-M.jpg

[myles to go]

This is the setup I used for a trip this weekend with my son, I carried all the gear so he could go light. Nothing fancy but it got us out there:)
http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/picture.php?albumid=1356&pictureid=10063
http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/picture.php?albumid=1356&pictureid=10057

[hutzelbein]

I'm touring as well. Did ~9 weeks on North Island, New Zealand this year on a steel bike I built up myself.

I'm curious: when you guys cycle tour, do you only take a hammock? If you do, do you use camp sites? If so, where do you leave your panniers and stuff? Especially when you stay longer in one place, and maybe do daytrips where you don't want to take all of your stuff?

I took a hammock and a tarptent on my tour, and I was happy I did. I was able to hang far more often than I had anticipated, but I always set up my tent as well, as a place to keep my stuff. My motto is: out of sight is out of mind. The camp sites often were quite busy; travelling by bicycle attracts attention; using a hammock attracts even more attention - people stroll by an oogle, and I think I would have been worried had I left my panniers under my tarp - easy to see and casually take for everybody who comes along. I know, I know, a tent is not the most secure place, either. But I think the threshold to take something out of a closed tent is a lot higher.

Anybody ever got anything stolen from under the tarp?

[MedicineMan]

Thanks Falconrider, my GAP experience is soon. Looking forward to it too.

[DemostiX]

All I've had for the last 7 years is a bicycle. I now have a van for doing my work, but the bike is my preferred form of transportation. First pic (left) is from 10 years ago going across America and the second (right) is my more modern steel steed going across America again last year. I love cycle touring. :)

That's a sweet and obviously very intimate ride, with your Brooks, and fenders so close they would be stylish on a massively-shoed rear-end of a hard-tail Hog. :)
All Ortlieb ultrasonic welded and racks that look Surly -- nothing fragile there, not even the cable to your earbuds. :)

[Lost_Biker]

That's a sweet and obviously very intimate ride, with your Brooks, and fenders so close they would be stylish on a massively-shoed rear-end of a hard-tail Hog. :)
All Ortlieb ultrasonic welded and racks that look Surly -- nothing fragile there, not even the cable to your earbuds. :)

I purpose built the bike and the wheels for strength and simpicity. I have 40,000+ miles on her now. Yes I love my bike - I ride all year round. Surly Long Haul Trucker frame, Jandd expedition racks, Ortlieb bags,and a well broken-in Brooks saddle. All the gearing is mountain bike stuff - geared for climbing and hauling me and large loads. I'm only on my 10th chain - it has 5000 miles on it (from last years Trans America trip). I didn't start biking till I hit 40. Wish I'd of started much earlier in my life!

[mtndragon]

This is the setup I used for a trip this weekend with my son, I carried all the gear so he could go light. Nothing fancy but it got us out there:)


That is great that you are taking your son bike camping and hammocking. Sounds like you are laying the foundation for a top notch citizen. :)

[leachazoid]

Hey Lost_Biker,
Snap! I have pretty much exactly the same set up with my LHT. She's lasted me across the States, and hopefully for many years to come. Theres a massive touring community on the West Coast and its great to think so many people want to explore via bike. I used my HH for the whole of my 3month trip and found only a few times (mainly in places like Ohio and Indiana) that it was a struggle to pitch with trees, so I ended up just pitching the tarp to keep me dry and slept on the floor.

Safe Cycling!

[jbphilly]

Do any of you use tarps big enough to cover both your hammock and your loaded bike? If so, what tarp?

[E.A.Y.]

Long have I lusted after Arkel panniers. I did buy the old style hangers (before they were cam lock). They are fabulous on my DIY bags. I highly recommend them. They used to be available separately. I assume they still are.

Yes, you can get the newer camlock hook kits from arkel.

I'll be digging out the WBBB and riding out to a nearby state park in Sept to check out my backpacking gear on my recumbent trike. Then in spring it will be Tour Time. Where, I don't know yet. Too many possibilities. Too many trees.

[FLRider]

Do any of you use tarps big enough to cover both your hammock and your loaded bike? If so, what tarp?

When it's just sprinkling or moderately raining with little wind, I pull the bike under my Hennessy Hex. It's got enough room to keep the bike mostly dry under those conditions.

If it's really going to come down, I put my military surplus poncho over the bike with the hood down and the snap closures snapped behind the back tire's splash guard and through the front tire's spokes. It keeps my beach cruiser dry even in pouring thunderstorms.

[12bar]

Bicycle touring is what led me to this site and the option of using a hammock instead of a tent. I will be taking early retirement at the end of the year and my gift to myself is a trip down Skyline Drive and the Blueridge Parkway. The last piece of kit I need is a shelter and the hammock is the winner. I haven't bought one yet but will pick one up in the next few weeks after I learn more about hammock camping. Oh yeah my bike is a Surly Long Haul Trucker with Tubus racks, Ortlieb panniers, Ortlieb handle bar bag, Brooks saddle, leather handle bar tape and last but not least wood fenders from woodys fenders. My avatar is a picture of her fully loaded. In case you can't tell I love that bike.

[Weasel]

That's pretty cool actually. I just do only some Backpacking and carcamping myself, but I am a commuter bike rider. My bike is not anywhere near that well hauled out with gear and bags. Currently I just have a Boulder SE circa 2010 with a rear rack, and panniers. I also have an el cheapo Outdoor Products Vortex bag. I'll put up pics at some point but nothing is speacial about my bike.

[autolox]

So I'm new to all facets - long distance biking and hammock camping. I wanted totally waterproof panniers. These are pelican 1430's with arkel mounting hardware.

35739


There's even a place to mount the gopro!

35740

There's no friend like a friend who works at a local school bus garage for a project like this:

35741

I do have an ultralight kit for this ride too: (by revelate o course):

35742

(this is from the day I picked it up - nearest dealer for this bike at the time was about 100 miles away so I grabbed a one way train ticket and rode as far home as I could....Life got in the way, wife had to come pick me up earlier than I wanted to quit riding, but, admittedly I got a little "off route" too....I've since this pic added the handlebar harness and pocket the Revelate makes. Check out Porcelain Rocket as well - he has some SWEET anything cage dry bags....and a set is on the way!!)

Primary purpose of the pelicans is to be able to safely take my dslr equipment on some trips. The capacity is good, like, for, chik fil a pickups:

35743

I wish I could take credit for the idea but the fellas at www.midnightmods.com are where I saw it first. They (the cases) also make a great "stool" to sit on.

I did splurge mildly for the lid organizers - the pockets make a great place for bike tools, extra tube, keys, etc...

C&O, GAP, and Greenbrier are intended for this summer.....by hammock of course....Over here on the east coast, finding trees shouldn't be a big deal...

[mryan27]

This thread makes me want to get the gear and a bike even more.

[Riverpirate]

I got my Trek 520 this weekend. Also have a Brooks saddle for it. Now to get the panniers so I can get on with some short tours.

[affreeman]

I got my Trek 520 this weekend. Also have a Brooks saddle for it. Now to get the panniers so I can get on with some short tours.

Nice! I bought a 520 in 1996; used it as my sole bike and toured on it every year for a dozen years. I did replace it with a custom IF Independence in 2008, but I still have the 520. It's a great work-horse of a bike.

I am still using the Jandd panniers I bought in '96. They carry lots of fond memories as well as gear.

[mrcheviot]

This thread makes me want to get the gear and a bike even more.


+1

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6060/6278803020_8b87fb23ee_b.jpg
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6213/6278274575_6e4e8c4c14_b.jpg

(would've been a better trip if my front seatpost bolt hadn't stripped...)

[autolox]

I don't mind waiting except for carrying the excess metal but the minimalists racks aren't that bad in the mean time. I'm hoping Salsa (or anyone for that matter) puts some minimalists out in Ti.

TUBUS CARRY is titanium. It's a super nice rack, BUT, if you're running 29ers on your fargo it won't work.....Thankfully my wife will have cross tires on her bike so we can swap the carry to hers when we do Greenbrier this summer, possibly GAP/C&O also...

SWEET setups on this thread!!!

[Owl]

Just thought I'd mention...a group of Hammock forumer's completed the Missouri Katy Trail yesterday. The group consisted of several members, including Medicine Man, Neutrino, Poosh, and Weasel. They started in Clinton on Friday, and finished in Machens yesterday. The first night they were forced to a motel because of issues finding a suitable campsite, but they managed to hang the remaining 3 nights along the trail.

I'm giving some thought to joining in with Weasel (now dubbed "Recon" by the trail crew) on another run of this sometime this fall.

[autolox]

Thanks for the update Owl!! I saw their "start" but hadn't seen much else from being kinda busy.....Fall??!!! BOOYAH!!! Can't wait to hear more detail about this....


Just thought I'd mention...a group of Hammock forumer's completed the Missouri Katy Trail yesterday. The group consisted of several members, including Medicine Man, Neutrino, Poosh, and Weasel. They started in Clinton on Friday, and finished in Machens yesterday. The first night they were forced to a motel because of issues finding a suitable campsite, but they managed to hang the remaining 3 nights along the trail.

I'm giving some thought to joining in with Weasel (now dubbed "Recon" by the trail crew) on another run of this sometime this fall.

[autolox]

36257

Sorry for the flash - this is a salsa anything cage holding a bag specifically made for these that's holding a ENO doublenest and my new OES maccat ultra tarp.

The bag/dry sack is by "porcelain rocket"

[RePete]

36257

Sorry for the flash -

Ok I have to admit, I am more interested in the flash. What are you using that is making your rims and spokes reflect like that? The best thing in the world on a bike is being seen. Yesterday in 2 separate accidents a 60 yr old man was hit at 3:30 am and I think about 8 am two young men of 18 and 19 were hit. All 3 were killed. In the case of the young men one of them had a flashing red light on the back of the bike. This was only 20 miles from my home. Earlier this spring in 2 other instances bicyclists were hit and killed and I know at least one of those had a flashing red light. People in my area really need to start paying attention. All we can do is make every effort to be seen.

[autolox]

The tires are Schwalbe mondial 700x40's.

The spoke reflectors....gimme a minute ;)

They were $15. They're in a small pack and are CRAZY effective. I've been ridiculed for spending that for them but it has proven to be a well spent $15 judging from vehicle reactions later in the day.

[autolox]

36278

The spoke reflectors - REI product number included.

....best impulse purchase I've ever made IMHO

[FLRider]

The tires are Schwalbe mondial 700x40's.

The spoke reflectors....gimme a minute ;)

They were $15. They're in a small pack and are CRAZY effective. I've been ridiculed for spending that for them but it has proven to be a well spent $15 judging from vehicle reactions later in the day.

Far as I know, all Schwalbe tires have that reflector strip running around the outside. At least, all of the ones I've seen do. It's definitely a plus for being seen.

[autolox]

One version has "ornamental" shapes. Another pack will have sheets of small rectangular squares suited well for spokes. They even include a small "guage" so you get the tabs mostly in line all the way around the wheel. One pack does two wheels and then a little bit of a third. I've been thinking about picking up another pack and doing an "interior" ring also.

I *think* the one you DO NOT want is a little cheaper in price. (been a little while since I did this - and I LOVE 'em....hardly any weight penalty and GREAT visibility.

I would imagine if you wanted to take the time a roll of "solas" tape would accomplish even more coverage but gosh that has to be a daunting task to take on!!

I've got a roll of yellow Solas I might play with a little to see how it does on the spokes closer to the hub of the wheel.




Ok I have to admit, I am more interested in the flash. What are you using that is making your rims and spokes reflect like that? The best thing in the world on a bike is being seen. Yesterday in 2 separate accidents a 60 yr old man was hit at 3:30 am and I think about 8 am two young men of 18 and 19 were hit. All 3 were killed. In the case of the young men one of them had a flashing red light on the back of the bike. This was only 20 miles from my home. Earlier this spring in 2 other instances bicyclists were hit and killed and I know at least one of those had a flashing red light. People in my area really need to start paying attention. All we can do is make every effort to be seen.

[RePete]

Thanks for the great info.

[DemostiX]

Far as I know, all Schwalbe tires have that reflector strip running around the outside. At least, all of the ones I've seen do. It's definitely a plus for being seen.

Schwalbe is dropping that from more and more of its tires.

There is also a $50 Danish product, running tiny current-generating inductors past a generator to illuminate 4-6 LEDs on each wheel. But $50-$60.

There's a lot to be said for premium 3M engineered reflective fabric, which comes in several non-illuminated colors and turns bright under light.

That said, cameras see differently than humans. Because that is fact, not theory, Germans are not crazy to disallow blinky's, so often purchased and used by riders like me. They are close to invisible as daytime lights, and not what riders think them to be to motorists seeing them through windshields at night, either.

[DemostiX]

RePete's handle helped me recall the name of the Danish induction-based flasher for bicycles:

www.Reelight.com

[mrcheviot]

I run Schwalbe Marathon Supreme's on my commuter and I _love_ them. 35 in the rear, 32 in front. Taxi drivers often comment on the reflector strips, which I've come to realize are more easily visible than my front/rear lights to them (since there are so many **** lights in this city).

On my touring bike I run Pasela TG's, but I also have reflective strips on my panniers and a larger rear light so I guess that balances out.

[autolox]

RePete's handle helped me recall the name of the Danish induction-based flasher for bicycles:

www.Reelight.com

Thanks!!! That looks cool!!!

[pulsemod]

I don't use my blinkies during daylight hours, only after the approach of dusk. However, being seen at all times and at all angles is a must.

It's another subject altogether, but I think 'helping you to be seen by motorists' tools/gadgets have limited capabilities and effectiveness. They don't make up for a lack of skill and a witty survival attitude on the road. The best thing any cycle-commuter can do is be predictable and don't deviate too far from established roadway etiquette, if possible of course, we've all been there. The biggest complaint I hear from people who have 0 knowledge about cycle-commuting (and culture) about cycle-commuters is they are too slow, not going to change, and they are unpredictable, changeable behavior. To be fair, from what I can tell it's mostly beginner errors that trigger this response. I see them all the time, so I believe the criticism. As for the clueless motorists who's only roadway perspective is driving, most people on the road, they need to accept that speed differentials are real and to learn how to pass properly. Don't Fing honk... absolutely unnecessary.

Nothing personal to others, rant over.

[FireInMyBones]

I've wanted to try bikepacking, but want to sell my mountain bike. I so rarely use my mountain bike, except on the road (where it's not very cozy), it's sad. I want a nice road bike for road racing, triathlons and maybe some commuting. Does anyone tour on the road? I'm looking at the Cannondale Synapse Alloy 105 or the Raleigh REVENIO 3.0 if it makes any difference. I'd most likely be upgrading the wheels out for lighter ones for on the road. I could put cyclecross tires on the old wheel set for dirt that's not too bumpy. I really don't want a cyclecross bike (as far as I know) since off roading on my bike is becoming less appealing to me.

Thoughts?

[mtndragon]

I have a cross bike that I use for road touring and bikepacking. Of those two bikes listed, I think you would have the most fun touring on the Cannondale because it has a triple crank. In order to get the gearing needed to get up hills with a light, light touring load I had to swap out my rear derailuer for an XT mtn bike derailuer so I could run an 11-36 rear cassette. I live in the mountains of California, so some extra gears were needed to get up hills with my light touring kit. I use a seatpack, frame bag, and handlebar sling from Revelate. I know South Carolina has some hills, so think about your gearing. The other factor in bike selection for touring will be tires. I would be surprised if either of those bikes take tires wider than 28c, which may or may not be wide enough for your weight and touring kit. When I tour, I use 40c tires, which barely fit in my frame. You can tour on any bike really with bikepacking gear as none of it needs rack braze ons to mount the load, but the two factors I would weigh most highly are tire size the frame will accept and gearing. Good luck.:)


I've wanted to try bikepacking, but want to sell my mountain bike. I so rarely use my mountain bike, except on the road (where it's not very cozy), it's sad. I want a nice road bike for road racing, triathlons and maybe some commuting. Does anyone tour on the road? I'm looking at the Cannondale Synapse Alloy 105 or the Raleigh REVENIO 3.0 if it makes any difference. I'd most likely be upgrading the wheels out for lighter ones for on the road. I could put cyclecross tires on the old wheel set for dirt that's not too bumpy. I really don't want a cyclecross bike (as far as I know) since off roading on my bike is becoming less appealing to me.

Thoughts?

[FLRider]

I've wanted to try bikepacking, but want to sell my mountain bike. I so rarely use my mountain bike, except on the road (where it's not very cozy), it's sad. I want a nice road bike for road racing, triathlons and maybe some commuting. Does anyone tour on the road? I'm looking at the Cannondale Synapse Alloy 105 or the Raleigh REVENIO 3.0 if it makes any difference. I'd most likely be upgrading the wheels out for lighter ones for on the road. I could put cyclecross tires on the old wheel set for dirt that's not too bumpy. I really don't want a cyclecross bike (as far as I know) since off roading on my bike is becoming less appealing to me.

Thoughts?

I do, but I also make compromises that most folks who do tour on the road aren't willing to. Example: I ride a Manhatten Flyer 6 (a 45-pound all-steel, a-frame beach cruiser with only six speeds). And my seat post rack carries my pack (the same one you'll see tomorrow) instead of going with frame bags or panniers.

Advantages: more comfortable over shorter distances (under fifty miles), cheaper, more modular, fits my riding style better (I prefer to have my lower back be happy with me over my seat being happy with me after a long ride).

Disadvantages: less comfortable over longer distances (above fifty miles), slower due to wind resistance, harder to go uphill (a not inconsiderable thing where you live, but down here it isn't as much of a disadvantage), less stable cargo arrangement (though, on a beach cruiser, that's less of a problem than on a dedicated road bike or touring set-up), and more prone to flats (more surface area on the tires, and the weight isn't distributed quite as well as a road or touring bike).

I like it, but it's not for everyone. It's just how I do things.

[FireInMyBones]

I have a cross bike that I use for road touring and bikepacking. Of those two bikes listed, I think you would have the most fun touring on the Cannondale because it has a triple crank...

...When I tour, I use 40c tires, which barely fit in my frame. You can tour on any bike really with bikepacking gear as none of it needs rack braze ons to mount the load, but the two factors I would weigh most highly are tire size the frame will accept and gearing. Good luck.:)

I would get the compact double as I never use the small gear even on tough hills with my Mtn. Bike. I'm glad to hear I could use the knobbier tires with the road bike for some touring.


I prefer to have my lower back be happy with me over my seat being happy with me after a long ride.

Interesting. I guess it's different strokes for different folks. I can hardly be on a bike anymore without leaning over. Being more upright is one of the reasons I find my Mtn. Bike so much less comfortable than my old road bike (that I shouldn't have sold).

[pulsemod]

I also support the cyclocross type frame idea. They aren't perfect, but they are the closest to the needs you cite. These days there is a trend for more frame versatility, vs specialization, but it's still a recent trend in the industry. An example of such a frame is Surly's "Cross Check" and Soma Fabrication's "Double Cross."

There isn't a 'do everything' bike that will 'do everything' well. The reasons are many, too many to list all of them.

If you race, you'd probably use 20c – 22c tires because of their low friction coefficient, which require specific rim widths that can't mount fat tires (32c - 40c) designed for hauling and vibration resistance. Huge problem. Also, racing/racing-hybrid bikes aren't designed to carry much weight or position a rider in an (more) upright position; they are designed to position a rider in a racing position and sacrifice almost all durability for weight reduction. Can they carry a rider plus weight? Yea, but not much. On the other hand, if you want a bike designed to haul loads (even sub 25lb loads); these types of bikes position riders in a more upright position which increases wind resistance. Another thought, carbon fiber is a great composite (lite and stiff = excellent control) if used in controlled conditions like a criterium race where the likelihood of rocks flying up and hitting the frame isn't much of a problem. It's important to understand that carbon fiber has a tendency to splinter if struck hard enough. Once a CF frame begins to splinter, it will fail quickly. This is exactly why steel is the preferred material for touring bikes; it has a slow fail, it flexes, and it withstands impacts from road debris well (because it flexes). If need be, steel can also be bent back into position with the correct tools and knowhow. If you travel via bike, rocks will hit your frame. Lastly, fenders matter! You want a frame that can incorporate fenders to protect the bike from road crap.

Gearing only works in certain tooth count ratios. If you need to climb and are carrying a load, you will need a granny ring, sub 24 teeth. 42 / 32 / 24 is a common long distance ratio. You could drop the large ring and only go with the 32 / 24 ratio, but then you sacrifice flat land speed acquired by the 42 tooth chain ring.

[DemostiX]

If you are touring, a low center of gravity is desireable, especially with gear. Unfortunately (cyclo) cross bikes and mountain bikes tend to have higher center brackets, the opposite of what is better.

No question of steel for touring. Not just about comfort, cost, reparability, etc; its about toughness. Racks and the loads on them place a surprising shock load on bike tubing, whether front forks or rear triangle members. Much more burdensome than a rider heavier by the same amount.

[pebbles]

38469 Thought I'd show you my set up. BoB trailer with RubberMaid 18 gal (I think) roughneck bin. Plenty of room for gear on my 2011 Xcountry trip, plus completely waterproof.

[RePete]

How do you like the BoB trailer? I bought a cheap 2 wheeled trailer and no matter what I have in it it feels like Im dragging an extra 50 lbs.

[pebbles]

I like the BoB for very extended trips, like I said this was a X country ride. For anything less than 2 weeks I stick with my rear rack and panniers. On another note Trialers expecially the BoB trailer take some amount of getting used to. not for the drag but it seems to almost rock the bike as you pedal, if only in the slightest. It really does hold a ton of gear and stresses the frame less, thats why i like it

[AScott]

I know this may not be the right place to ask, but I've come to trust the HF community.

I currently have this bike: http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2002&Brand=Schwinn&Model=Sierra&Type=bike

I would like to use it to ride on the local rails to trails paths and on some roads (mostly paved, but some are gravel). My plan is to start with some new, thinner tires and to ditch the front suspension for a new fixed fork (it's shot). I have no idea what kind of forks to be looking at, but that's the plan.

Does this sound reasonable? Would I be able to put panniers and on this bicycle and carry a light load? My goal is to work up to riding the Munger Trail that goes from Duluth, MN to Hinckley, MN next fall (63 miles each way). I will for sure be looking at camping with my hammock along the way, but it won't be more than a 3 day trip.

I'm new to anything other than casual riding as a boy. I got this bike almost 10 years ago and have ridden it up and down the road every once in awhile, but I want to get more into riding for fitness and fun.

I really can't justify a new, quality machine at this point. Maybe next year.

[FLRider]

I know this may not be the right place to ask, but I've come to trust the HF community.

I currently have this bike: http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2002&Brand=Schwinn&Model=Sierra&Type=bike

I would like to use it to ride on the local rails to trails paths and on some roads (mostly paved, but some are gravel). My plan is to start with some new, thinner tires and to ditch the front suspension for a new fixed fork (it's shot). I have no idea what kind of forks to be looking at, but that's the plan.

Does this sound reasonable? Would I be able to put panniers and on this bicycle and carry a light load? My goal is to work up to riding the Munger Trail that goes from Duluth, MN to Hinckley, MN next fall (63 miles each way). I will for sure be looking at camping with my hammock along the way, but it won't be more than a 3 day trip.

I'm new to anything other than casual riding as a boy. I got this bike almost 10 years ago and have ridden it up and down the road every once in awhile, but I want to get more into riding for fitness and fun.

I really can't justify a new, quality machine at this point. Maybe next year.

Sure, that'd do just fine for short (less than 40 miles a day) trips. Adding panniers to it is...odd, but doable. I'd be careful of what tires you put on it, though; gravel can be tough to ride on with road tires, depending on the subgrade. Personally, I'd take it in to a reputable local shop and talk with them about what you want to do.

If you know anyone in your local area who bikes on a regular basis (I mean touring or mountain biking or racing, not just around town), ask them where they get their bike serviced and what their impression of the place is. That should lead you to some good folks who really know bikes and are willing to work with you on what you want.

[AScott]

Sure, that'd do just fine for short (less than 40 miles a day) trips. Adding panniers to it is...odd, but doable. I'd be careful of what tires you put on it, though; gravel can be tough to ride on with road tires, depending on the subgrade. Personally, I'd take it in to a reputable local shop and talk with them about what you want to do.

If you know anyone in your local area who bikes on a regular basis (I mean touring or mountain biking or racing, not just around town), ask them where they get their bike serviced and what their impression of the place is. That should lead you to some good folks who really know bikes and are willing to work with you on what you want.

Thanks. There are a couple of shops in the area, but the closest is about 15 miles. I'll have to wait until my next trip to town. I'm fairly isolated out here. I don't really know anyone who bikes more than casually.

Why would panniers be odd on this bike? Those are the bags on the back, right? If I add a rack they should be OK, shouldn't they? I can't imagine riding with a pack, so I need some way to carry my gear.

Like I said, I'm totally new to this. I may be asking the wrong questions. :)

[Jsaults]

Many miles on rail trails, single-track, fire roads and paved roads.

Dragging a BOB does feel IMO to be less efficient than carrying gear in panniers. It might be due to the 16" wheel, but anytime one adds another tire contact patch there has to be more drag.

But for single-track riding the BOB is excellent! Really does live up to the hype about tracking.

Other advantages to a BOB are that you can pull into a campground, unload your gear, and then cruise the other sites for firewood. Or ride to the camp store for a 12-pack. Turn the BOB over and it makes a good table for cooking.

Jim

[FLRider]

Thanks. There are a couple of shops in the area, but the closest is about 15 miles. I'll have to wait until my next trip to town. I'm fairly isolated out here. I don't really know anyone who bikes more than casually.

Why would panniers be odd on this bike? Those are the bags on the back, right? If I add a rack they should be OK, shouldn't they? I can't imagine riding with a pack, so I need some way to carry my gear.

Like I said, I'm totally new to this. I may be asking the wrong questions. :)

It may still be worth a trip into town. Check out all of the shop reviews that you can find via the Internet; it's not as good as knowing someone who bikes, but it's better than nothing.

Panniers would be odd with that bike 'cause most folks don't tour with that style of bike. It's just outside my personal experience to see someone with serious panniers (not the little rack baskets, but full panniers) on a bike like that. Then again, it would be outside my experience to see someone with serious panniers on my bike, too...

Yep, if you add a rack, they should go on just fine. Another thing you might want to think about is frame bags instead of panniers. If you're going ultralight, it may be worth skipping the weight of the frame altogether and simply strapping stuff sacks to the bike frame proper.

MedicineMan shows off a couple of bikes using that method in this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqUDsBjhSHc), at about the 0:50 and 8:00 marks. Both give a good feel for what it looks like with a seat bag and handlebar bag attached to a bike. You can also go with a frame bag (it is in the shape of the hole in the frame under your torso and is narrow to avoid knee strikes as you pedal) for more storage.

Or, if you want to get creative, I simply strap my pack to the seat. I show how in the beginning of this video:

O_wQuPExYNg

It also shows it off towards the 9:30 mark.

Hope it helps!

[AScott]

Thanks, FLRider. I've been waiting to do this for awhile. I'm afraid I'm not going to be able to hike as much as I once could due to health, but I'm thinking cycling may be able to take its place and allow me to still "get out there."

[pulsemod]

Many miles on rail trails, single-track, fire roads and paved roads.

Dragging a BOB does feel IMO to be less efficient than carrying gear in panniers. It might be due to the 16" wheel, but anytime one adds another tire contact patch there has to be more drag.

But for single-track riding the BOB is excellent! Really does live up to the hype about tracking.

Other advantages to a BOB are that you can pull into a campground, unload your gear, and then cruise the other sites for firewood. Or ride to the camp store for a 12-pack. Turn the BOB over and it makes a good table for cooking.

Jim

Yea, I agree with this synopsis. There is more friction due to an extra tire in contact with the road, more weight to haul, and added wind resistance. However, I think BOBs are useful in an urban setting because you can use them to haul bulky items like ladders, chairs, 4 large packages, or whatnot.

[affreeman]

Yea, I agree with this synopsis. There is more friction due to an extra tire in contact with the road, more weight to haul, and added wind resistance. However, I think BOBs are useful in an urban setting because you can use them to haul bulky items like ladders, chairs, 4 large packages, or whatnot.

The big problem with a BOB trailer is that whoever is touring with you can't draft off you!

[Sirkyi]

Thanks guys for all the info I'm gathering info for a longish bike/hammock trip.

[mtndragon]

Here is a blog from a gentleman who I hosted at my house via warmshowers.org (http://www.warmshowers.org/) in the fall of last year.

http://seetombike.wordpress.com/

He started out in New Jersey, and rode across the country, using a hammock. By the time he reached me in Lake Tahoe, he had been on the road for a couple of months and of that time, he said he was only unable to hang 2-3 nights tops. He is using a Henessey with NO underquilt and no pad. Rugged for sure, and very inspirational. His near daily updates make for great reading.

[obow]

I'm on a cycle trip myself and recently picked up a hammock.

http://domluther.smugmug.com/OneBikeOneWorld/South-America/7-Back-to-Brazil/i-43LhPj7/0/M/CIMG1729-M.jpg
was my hang a couple of nights back. The Brazilian fire station said I could sleep in their bus. Not so clean, but the hammock helped with that.

[Refreshing]

I'm on a cycle trip myself and recently picked up a hammock.

http://domluther.smugmug.com/OneBikeOneWorld/South-America/7-Back-to-Brazil/i-43LhPj7/0/M/CIMG1729-M.jpg
was my hang a couple of nights back. The Brazilian fire station said I could sleep in their bus. Not so clean, but the hammock helped with that.

How many people can say that they hammocked inside of an old Brazilian bus? I love it. Building life stories!

[Ironlungs]

I have the Garneau bags, about same capacity. I like to ride to work as well. It is a 28 mile one way trip, and upwards of 36-40 miles home, simply because I want the mileage.
I love the distance cycling/over night camping as well. The hammock gear will make the load a tad bit lighter. I am planning a "NE to SW corners Ohio ride" this season and hope to stealth camp 4-5 nights, riding my Scattante R405. I use one of several tracking apps with my Razr Maxx smartphone; Trimbleoutdoors Backpacker, Strava, or Mapmyride, or Google's My Tracks. If you don't have one, I have found an I.Sound 16000, yes, sixteen thousand Mah! battery charger and also recently an Anker 14000. (Anker has a higher output as well). The 16000 charges my smartphone 5x, and the Anker will do 4x.
I joined Hammocks Forum to gain wisdom at the virtual feet of others who have walked, camped, canoed, motorcycled, or ridden before me, with their knowledge and experiences/stories, and to give my own.

[Hotboy]

This thread caught my eye, having just returned from a bike ride from Newcastle to the Gold Coast on Australia's east coast. First tour for me since B.C. (before children) and after 25 years felt now was a good time. While I have a hammock in the pipeline, This is all new to me but I can definitely see the advantages of hammock dwelling. I will keep the traditional pannier setup for the times where my wife and children will come along but want to explore the possibilities of reducing weight and complexity in order to reduce stress on bike and rider. This will allow me to travel further of the beaten track, spending less time wrestling 30+ kg on a track and more time chilling out in a hammock. For anyone interested we completed the trip on cheap bikes (my son's was a fifty dollar K-mart mountain bike.) to prove a point. That is, any trip can be successful with the right attitude and determination. Excuses about unsuitable equipment are the biggest obstacle to success. A ' just do it attitude' is a great start. Just as aside, while we were sitting at a rest area in the middle of nowhere, an old pensioner guy rode up on an ancient mountain bike. He had a t-shirt, shorts and thongs/flip flops on his feet, a fabric shopping bag occy-strapped to his handle bars and a small carry bag on his rear carrier. His destination was Cairns in fare North Queensland, some thousands of kilometres away. This was his third trip, and this just about summarised what adventures are all about. Getting out there and following your dreams. Look forward to more great threads about traveling with hammocks.


I have the Garneau bags, about same capacity. I like to ride to work as well. It is a 28 mile one way trip, and upwards of 36-40 miles home, simply because I want the mileage.
I love the distance cycling/over night camping as well. The hammock gear will make the load a tad bit lighter. I am planning a "NE to SW corners Ohio ride" this season and hope to stealth camp 4-5 nights, riding my Scattante R405. I use one of several tracking apps with my Razr Maxx smartphone; Trimbleoutdoors Backpacker, Strava, or Mapmyride, or Google's My Tracks. If you don't have one, I have found an I.Sound 16000, yes, sixteen thousand Mah! battery charger and also recently an Anker 14000. (Anker has a higher output as well). The 16000 charges my smartphone 5x, and the Anker will do 4x.
I joined Hammocks Forum to gain wisdom at the virtual feet of others who have walked, camped, canoed, motorcycled, or ridden before me, with their knowledge and experiences/stories, and to give my own.

[22hornet]

I will be riding the Southern Tier from Florida to Arizona in feb of 15. My plan is to use the hammock but I'm not so sure about west Texas or parts of east Arizona, I don't want to bring my tent, even though my Dutch argon 11 foot hammock is super light. I will post my blog from crazy guy when I get it going if anybody wants to follow my trip. Jim

[OutandBack]

I will be riding the Southern Tier from Florida to Arizona in feb of 15. My plan is to use the hammock but I'm not so sure about west Texas or parts of east Arizona, I don't want to bring my tent, even though my Dutch argon 11 foot hammock is super light. I will post my blog from crazy guy when I get it going if anybody wants to follow my trip. Jim

Hi Jim, Sounds like a fun trip. I hope you will keep us posted on your trip reports we have several bikepacking/hammock hangers. In fact we even have a bikepacking subforum in the donating member forums.

[22hornet]

I am in the midst of my cross country bike tour. I started in Jacksonville Fl on Feb 15th and am now in Comstock Texas. My final stop is Surprise Arizona. I reluctantly left my hammock kit at home, the tree less part of west Texas and onto Arizona made my decision. But boy did I miss out on some great hang spots thru Florida and Louisiana. My blog is on www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/15297 if anybody wants to follow my trip. Everything I have read about a long tour has been true. It changes a person and gives you a different perspective on everything. RYOR Jim

[Alex MacDonald]

One thing we learned on our fatbikes, is that Salsa Anything cage precisely fits a 64oz Hydroflask (full of a decent adult beverage, of course). Here in the Cascades, there's so many miles of forest service roads all over the place, that touring there is super! There's also the addition of narrow pavement, no shoulders, and tourists in rented motorhomes, that riding on dirt is much safer!109347