flickr.com/insidestory
Traveling by bicycle is one of the best ways to view and appreciate the glorious countryside. With a quality touring bicycle, some basic travel necessities and a lot of energy, you can see the world in an entirely new way.
As the name suggests, touring bicycles are used by cyclists wanting to travel while carrying supplies. These bicycles have racks mounted on the front and rear of the frame for carrying the extra gear like food, a change of clothes, etc. They have mudguard mounting points, a large wheelbase, triple water bottle mounts and a suitable frame set for wider tires.
The three most popular touring bicycles in use today are road, tandem ad recumbent bikes. Each of these bikes has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and should be purchased according to an individual’s requirements.
A typical road-touring bicycle has 700C wheels. The wheel diameters are similar as racing bike wheels, but they have wider rims and better frame clearance. In recent years, manufacturers have modified the 26″ mountain bike tires to provide greater strength and better resistance.
Recumbent touring bicycles have a distinct appearance due to the seat position. On these bicycles, the rider sits on a reclined seat with the legs extended in front of the seat. The steering may be positioned below or above seat level.
Tandems are essentially meant to carry two riders, and are famous choices for couples wishing to travel long distances economically. These bikes, however, can’t carry any extra weight, so the riders often have to hitch a trailer.
 |
Learn how to ride faster than you ever thought possible |
 |
Modern touring bikes are normally equipped with front and rear luggage racks, road handlebars and saddles for long distance comfort. These bikes also feature heavy-duty rims, rugged hubs and 36-spoke wheels, increasing their stability and reliability. A stable steering arrangement and long wheelbase adds to the practicality. Most models have a longer chain stay to ensure that the cyclist can ride longer distances without discomfort.
Touring bikes have various attachment points for fixing fenders, keeping luggage and storing their all-important water bottles. Other models allow for space to store spare parts.
Another option is to connect a trailer, which can be towed behind the bike to carry extra gear and provide a low center of gravity.
Touring bicycles are created to handle the elements and carry the rider over long distances. The parts and frame are made of sturdy, long lasting materials, allowing the bikes to handle fast ascents and descents even when loaded down with gear. Normal caliper brakes used in racing bikes are replaced by lever-pulled or cantilever brakes. Some manufacturer even utilize disc brakes to provide excellent stopping power.
What is gained in ruggedness and utility is often lost in speed, but it’s a compromise that touring cyclists are willing to make. The combination of benefits and features make these bikes the ride of choice for adventurous tourists wanting an up close and personal view of the countryside.
Tagged with: road bike • touring bike
Filed under: Bikes