Choosing a Touring Bike
Choosing the right bike may be the decision that either sets you up for success or sends you on a path straight to misery. Before you decide if you want a road bike, mountain bike or a touring specific bike, try out a few frames at your local bike shop. Talk with experts, ride with friends and see what they recommend. Bike touring is a much different activity than mountain or road biking. You are not looking for high traction and shock or a bike that is merely built for speed- you need a bike that is comfortable for 5-10 hours a day of riding! If you can afford it, there are bikes specifically built for distance touring. These bikes have light yet sturdy frames, well built components and several gears. If you’d like to try touring on a bike you already own, or by converting a cheaper bike, then be sure to consider seat, chainstays, and handlebars.
Amy’s tour bike circa 2018 - just off the EuroVelo radweg bike trail at the Rhine Falls (the largest waterfall in Europe) on the Upper Rhine near the town of Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland.
Selecting a Seat
It is important to have a seat that will be comfortable to ride on for upwards of 5 hours at a time. The first day of riding will likely be fine no matter what seat you have, but getting back on the saddle the next day will be tell-all. Let me tell you from personal experience, that bruised butt syndrome is not an enjoyable way to start your trip. And don’t try to tell yourself it will get better as the days go by...if the seat doesn’t fit- get your rear end off of it!
Handlebar Height
Handlebars that give you a variety of hand positions are one a very important element of your bike. After riding for a while, your hands can become numb from being in the same place. Additionally, on steep uphill climbs you’ll appreciate a little leverage. It is generally recommended that if you are using a racing type road bike, that you have the ability to raise the level of the handlebars to at least the height of the seat. While touring you’re likely looking to see the what is around you instead of just looking down at the pavement rolling ahead of you. Higher handlebars will also be able to allow you to sit upright when needed to stretch your back and arms while riding.
A chainstay that is long enough to allow for a rear luggage/pannier rack is essential for long distance touring. Solid fenders also add a very important level or protection for your gear and your back while navigating gravel, puddles and occasional rainstorm!
Bike Frame Sizing & Racks
Chainstays are the tubing that extend from the seatpost to the rear axle of the bicycle. Having longer chainstays allows you more room between the back of your foot when its on the pedal and the rear pannier bags that are likely to be mounted on your bike. If your bike rack is far enough back this shouldn’t be an issue. However, if your rack has extendable mountain hardwear, use caution when mounting it further back just to prevent your feet from hitting it. Having more weight behind your rear axle negatively affects its handling.
While these suggestions may make your decision on whether to use an existing bike or to invest in a new one, it is important that you consider that this will be the most important decision you make. Your bike is your lifeline and without it, your tour is non-existent. While just about any bike can be outfitted to work as a touring bike, be careful with how far you take this statement. It is certainly true that a $50 bike from a department store could survive a long-distance tour, consider that your comfort level & the time and money invested in repairing said bike along the way, will impact your tour experience. It is certainly recommended that you visit a local bike shop that can fit you with a touring specific bike, complete with customized handlebars, racks and more.