Bamboo bike frames offer a strong, sustainable, and beautiful alternative to traditional metal or carbon fiber frames. In some cases, bamboo even outperforms traditional bike frame materials. Of course, there are some drawbacks to consider. This guide outlines the pros and cons of riding a bamboo bike. We’ll cover ride quality, weight, durability, comfort, pricing, …
Bikes and Cycling
When it comes to securing your bike’s grips in place on your handlebars, there are two different attachment systems to choose from. This guide outlines the pros and cons of lock on vs slip on grips. We’ll cover slippage, weight, comfort, cost, ease of use, and more. Generally, lock on grips are easier to install …
Handlebar grips play a major role in your bike’s comfort and handling. After all, they are one of only three places that your body makes contact with the bike. Your grips affect your ability to steer, shift, and brake. Riding with the wrong grips can lead to hand numbness, blistering, cramping, and fatigue. This guide …
A few years back, I decided to buy an old steel-framed mountain bike to convert into a touring bike. I ended up getting a Schwinn High Sierra. Mine is a 1986 model. It came equipped with roller-cam brakes. After buying the bike, I took the brakes apart, cleaned them up, then reinstalled them with new …
When it comes to carrying luggage on your bike, cargo trailers offer a great alternative to panniers for some tours. The best trailer for you depends on the amount of gear you need to haul, the type of terrain you plan to ride on, the type of bike you’re riding, as well as your personal …
While preparing for a bicycle tour, one of the most important decisions you need to make is how you’re going to haul your gear. Your luggage choice determines how much gear you can carry, how your bike handles, and the type of terrain you can ride. This guide explains all of the pros and cons …
Recumbent bikes make great touring bikes. They are more comfortable, more aerodynamic, more efficient, and easier on the knees than traditional upright bikes. There are some drawbacks. Recumbent bikes are heavier, less maneuverable, and they don’t climb as well. To help you decide whether or not a recumbent is right for you, this guide lists …
I bought the Moosetreks Full Frame Bag in preparation for my first bicycle tour in Washington State. Before making this purchase, I inspected several high-end frame bags from cottage bikepacking bag manufacturers. At $100-$200, they just seemed overpriced for what they are. I ended buying the Moosetreks frame bag for about 1/4 of the price …
I bought the Brooks B17 Standard Saddle on Amazon in preparation for my first bike tour. I was hesitant to spend so much money on a saddle but I needed something decent to replace the cheap plastic seat that was on the bike. 1000 miles later and I am very happy with my purchase. This …
When I first started getting interested in bicycle touring, the one thing holding me back from taking my first tour was the high initial cost of a touring bike and gear. I was hesitant to spend thousands of dollars on a bike and panniers not even knowing if I’d enjoy it. After some research, I …