Saturday, June 12, 2010

Boring (but obligatory) equipment list

It is traditional to begin a bicycle touring travelogue with an equipment list.  So, here it is:

Bike:
-Motobecane Mirage Sport (almost every component has worn out and been replaced since I got this bike 11,000 miles ago, so it is a bit like the ship of Theseus paradox)
-700x25C Shwalbe Marathon Plus Tires (I love these tires so far, but we'll see how I feel about them a month from now)
-Blackburn EX-1 Rack
-Ortlieb Backroller Classic Panniers
-Cateye Strada Cyclometer
-Knog Frog lights (headlight serving double duty as my flashlight)
-Kool Stop dual compound brake pads (my absolute favorite)

Camping:
-ALPS Razor Sleeping Bag (marketed as a sleeping bag liner) (~1.25lbs.)
-Wenzel Starlite tent (~3lbs)

Tools:
-Topeak multitool
-Topeak pump
-2 spare tubes
-Glued patches
-Fiberfix spoke
-Emergency derailler hanger
-Spare chain link
-Craftsman 6" adjustable wrench
-Park adhesive tire boots
-Gerber Gator Knife
-Spare SPD cleat w/ bolts
-Small amount of duct tape

Clothing:
-2 compression fit tees
-Cycling cap
-2 pairs of Pearl Izumi bike shorts
-50/50 long sleeve shirt
-Synthetic basketball shorts
-5 pairs of synthetic socks
-Lake SPD shoes

Misc:
-Loads of maps
-Small compass
-Nylon wallet
-Disposable lighter
-Cable lock

Toiletries, first aid, food... blah, blah, blah.

The total weight of my gear comes in right around 15lbs, which I'm really happy about.  It seriously decreases the chance of having rack/back wheel troubles, improves handling, and makes climbing much easier.

The major thing I'm leaving behind is cooking stuff.  It would add 3lbs. and hundreds of dollars of cost to my rig.  The major reason I'm leaving it is because I know myself too well.  I barely ever cook in my apartment with all the conveniences of modern appliances.  Peanut butter off a knife blade will suit me much better. 

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