WSD Road vs. Touring Bike

[PamNY]

I posted a question about bike purchasing a few weeks ago, and got some very helpful answers here.

My question wasn't exactly the same as yours, but there is helpful information about touring bikes.

[Pedal Wench]

The quick answer is that a touring bike is designed for just that - touring. Set up to carry panniers and a longer, more comfy wheelbase. For supported road rides - your century and something like the AIDS LifeCycle, a road bike is ideal.

[Trek-chick]

I think Terry is the only one that makes a womens specific touring bike---shame on the other companies!!! They are beautiful but, pricey

I have a trek 520 that I just got in April (touring bike) that I plan to use on a few centuries,my daily commute, RAGBRAI and hopefully some tours in the future.

My opinion...go with a road bike and set up your hybrid for touring if that is something you want to do in the future.

[Owlie]

I'd say get a road bike.

[FlyingScot]

Totally OT but can I say Owlie I love your sig line. I'm a little slow so I just figured it out. I think I might actually be a slimer.

[marni]

you can also get a seat post mounted and removable rack for a road bike that allows you to carry a bag or trunk for touring. They come in all sizes, insulated and none, are easily removable so that you can carry them around as a day pack. Mine will hold two 12 oz bottles of water, tool kit, rain gear, sandwich, snacks, spare tube, inflation kit, map and a few other odds and ends. It add weight though, especially if you aren't disciplined about the amount of stuff you stuff it with. Incidentally, peanut butter and m&m sandwiches from two days ago are still edible, if a bit squashed and melted through.

I would go for the r0ad bike and assume that most distance rides you will be doing will probably be supported, thus eleminating the need for the rack and bag which you can replace with an under seat tool kit, two bottles , a frame pump or inflation kit and 3 jersey pockets.

marni

[EvaToad]

Thanks everyone! I'm glad there's unanimous support for the road bike. Makes things easier for me!

Can't wait to get on a bike that doesn't weigh 40 pounds. I suspect 50 miles will seem much more attractive.

[Owlie]

Totally OT but can I say Owlie I love your sig line. I'm a little slow so I just figured it out. I think I might actually be a slimer.

Thanks! I'm trying to find a tiny snail* to keep in my bike bag. Slime is so hard to clean out of clothes, though...


*not a real one.