2009-02-18 I cannot regale you with epic tales of my travels as I am still in a hotel doing mundane work. But I was asked about my gear, and this seems like as good a time as any to give a description to those who are interested. So that beat-up frame you see in so many of my pictures is a Trek Touring 520. In my mind those rough looks are a bonus in that they contribute toward theft deterrent. The moving parts are all high-end Shimano components. These are the important bits. Tubus front and rear racks hold my four Ortlieb panniers over Planet Bike fenders. I pack those things of immediate need in my Sunlite handlebar bag and Sunlite frame pack. The most comfortable saddle you will ever find is made by Brooks. I think I may invoke the wrath of bike geeks everywhere when I admit that I don't know the saddle's model number, although there is a big S on the side. The whole works is kept off the ground by a pair of Mavic rims and Panaracer tires. Somehow I managed to use both Shrader valve and a Presta valve tubes. (Insert presta valve rant here.) That's my bike. I talked to a guy today who claims to have built a steam-powered bike, so I guess there's always potential for more additions. There is more gear yet to describe, but I will reserve that for another work day.

Trek 520 Shimano Ortlieb Sunlite