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I've used this rack on all my bicycle tours and highly recommend it. It's really robust and can take a lot of punishment. It's really simple to fix your panniers to it quickly. There is a standard and disc brake fitting so make sure you choose the right one. -
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I have always used cleats to attach myself to my pedals. All the additional power you get on the upstrokes is certainly worth it (reportedly up to 10%). When touring you can be in and out of the SPD pedals a lot, so I use these Shimano SPD pedals because they are quite large and can be used with normal shoes too. They are easy to pedal without fully clipping yourself in which is useful in towns. Thoroughly recommended so get some additional power. -
Lights are an essential item for cycling safety. You may not be cycling at night but during the day and dusk you need your lights. Keep your rear light on all the time – LEDs enable you to do this without burning batteries. These lights are very compact and light and easily fit to your bike. I also bring a head torch which can be used as an additional front light if we run out of daylight before we get to our destination. Stay safe and get some! -
I bought a pair of these to replace my Shimano cycling shoes. I was looking for a trainer type shoe which could take cleats for SPD pedals but still be comfortable to walk in. I looked at the Shimano XM7 cycling shoes but in the end took a chance on a much cheaper cycling shoe. I wasn't disappointed at all with these. I did buy some gel insoles as well to make things more comfortable. Make sure you buy some cleats, they are easy to fit as well. -
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I like to sip water when cycling to keep hydrated so a CamelBak is an essential item for me. The great thing about this design is that there is plenty of space to stow items like sunglasses, waterproof helmet cover, money, snacks etc. The 2.5 litre capacity is usually enough for a days ride for me. Highly recommended item you should take on tour. -
Keeping your hands dry when cycling is essential. Once they get wet, the continual airflow over your hands will make it very uncomfortable – same with your feet. These gloves have served me well in the wet and cold. Being fully waterproof, they are warm, breathable and have a good grip. Another great feature is that I can still use my iPhone while I'm wearing them, as opposed to removing them each time I need to use it. -
This is the the perfect sleeping mat for cycling. It is comfortable, lightweight and packs up small. You don't want to be messing about with punctures or mattresses losing air so best keep it simple. I highly recommend this one since it folds up in to an nice block with no space lost. Go for it and sleep tight! -
These trousers are great for hiking and bike touring alike. I've used them for both. For ultra marathons it's good to know you can whip the legs off if it's too hot for trousers – I've not had to do that yet but you never know. They pack up really small so ideal leisure trousers for hiking and camping. They are very strong and tear proof so they'll last for years. -
These are great jackets for what they do. They are nice and light, pack up small and keep the rain out when it's pouring down. The additional visibility with the reflective fabric really stands out so I feel safer in bad conditions. Keeps the wind off nicely too and I've recently been through some filthy weather with one of these on and kept reasonably dry! Worth it and highly recommended. -
These are very well made panniers and are great for keeping everything dry. There's plenty of room in them and they have a separate compartment each. They are easy to fit to your bike rack and easy to carry around using a strap. I suggest a lashing strap which can be used for other things. -
If you are cycle touring and wild camping this tent is a very good choice. You can fit two in reasonably comfortably or use it for one person and enjoy the space. Well made and lightweight. -
This is the saddle I have used for all my tours and I can safely report that I have never had any saddle soreness! The Brooks B17 is the stand out choice for a saddle that is well made and comfortable. Make sure you run it in first, to make sure it fits your bottom comfortably, before you go touring. Once run in just follow the care and maintenance instructions and it will last a long time. The version I have is the B17 Special but a cheaper Standard version is available for under £100 which delivers the same performance without the high level aesthetic.
Thanks for dropping in!
