Quote Originally Posted by withm View Post
Sigh.... Seems I HAVE all the toys, but they just aren't the RIGHT toys for bike touring. I really like my tent but it probably weighs 7-8 pounds, my sleeping bag is probably OK, really need a new foam pad but it will do for now. But it's "heavy" too. And then there's the stove... I could easily spend $500 on this stuff but that money would be better spent to replace my 8 yr old computer that crashes daily.
I have a friend that I do backpacking trips and bike tours with. Her tent is huge and is about 8lbs. Her sleeping bag takes up nearly the whole rear rack (a Coleman from Walmart) and is heavy, and her stove is ancient. She still does it. I don't know how, but she does.

Can you find things on eBay or some other kind of website. Used stuff is great. When I first started backpacking and bike touring I bought a used tent (about 5 lbs) and a stove (an older Jeboil version). Got both for under $50. Have upgraded since then...spent a little more than $50 this time...
I recently bought a new Jetboil that I love. That thing is like magic- and so lightweight.