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
Last edited by marni; 07-16-2010 at 07:32 PM.
Reason: mispellings
marni
Katy, Texas
Trek Madone 6.5- "Red"
Trek Pilot 5.2- " Bebe"
"easily outrun by a chihuahua."