Traveling on a bicycle is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the glorious countryside. When you have a good quality touring bicycle, some basic travel necessities and a lot of energy, you'll begin to see the world in a whole new way.
Touring bicycles, as the name suggests, are used by cyclists wanting to travel while carrying supplies. These bicycles have racks mounted on the front and rear of the frame for carrying the extra gear like a change of clothes, food etc. They have mudguard mounting points, triple water bottle mounts, a large wheelbase and a suitable frameset for wider tires.
Road, recumbent and tandem bikes are the three most popular touring bicycles in use today. Each style of bike has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Learn about the different touring bikes and choose one according to your particular needs.
A classic road-touring bicycle has 700C wheels. The wheel diameters are the same as racing bike wheels, but they have wider rims and better frame clearance. In recent years, manufacturers have modified the 26" mountain bike tires to provide better resistance and greater strength.
Recumbent touring bicycles are unique in appearance due to the seat position. Riders sit on a reclined seat with the legs stretched out in front. The steering can be positioned above or below the seat level.
Tandems are essentially meant to carry two riders, and are popular choices for couples wishing to travel long distances economically. However, these bikes can't carry any extra weight, so the riders often have to hitch a trailer.
Many modern touring bikes are equipped with front and rear luggage racks, road handlebars and specialized saddles to provide long distance comfort. These bikes also feature rugged hubs, heavy-duty rims and 36-spoke wheels to increase their stability and reliability. A long wheelbase and stable steering arrangement add to the ease of use and practicality. Many models feature longer chain stays to help cyclists ride longer distances with less discomfort.
There are various attachment points on touring bikes to keep luggage, fix fenders, and store those all-important water bottles. Some models even allow additional space to store spare parts. Attaching a trailer is another option, and pulling the extra gear behind the bike can provide a low center of gravity.
Touring bicycles are born to ride and able to withstand elements and take the cyclist over long distances. The frame and parts are built with sturdy, long-lasting materials, allowing the bikes to handle fast climbs and descents while loaded down with gear. The normal caliper brakes used in racing bikes are replaced with cantilever or lever-pulled brakes. Some manufacturers have implemented disc brakes to provide excellent stopping power.
What is gained in utility and ruggedness is often lost in speed, but it's a compromise that touring cyclists are willing to make. The combination of features and benefits make these bikes the ride of choice for adventurous tourists wanting an up close and personal view of the countryside.
