Choosing the Right Touring Bicycle

Bicycle touring is something that can be a lot of fun if done right. It truly is one of the best ways for a person to travel the world. You can use almost any bicycle for your tours, but it is only when you choose the right bicycle that you will be able to enjoy the trip all the more. Now there are quite a few factors which you need to consider when it comes to choosing a touring bike. Some of these factors include the type of bike, components, riding position, wheel size, frame construction, etc. At the end of the day, this all comes down to your preference and your budget.

The 1st thing you have to decide is the type of bike you would want. There are a number of bikes ranging from road bikes to mountain bikes. There are even a few people who have completed tours on single speed bikes. But when it comes to touring, most people go with mountain bikes or steel road bikes. Depending on whether you will be spending maximum time on your tour on the roads or on gravel and dirt trails, you will have to choose between a road bike and a mountain bike.

Your riding position is something which you need to consider while choosing touring bikes as well. If you are going on long rides, you need a bike with an upright sitting position so that your body weight doesn't fall on your hands & wrists. This will ensure your back doesn't get sore. You can even add drop bars with multiple hand positions to make your bike into a multifaceted touring bike.

Touring bikes are usually ridden a lot more than regular bikes. This is why it is very important for you to ensure you have the right components for your bike. It's obvious that no one would want to spend time fixing their bike when on a tour. As far as mountain bikes are concerned, Shimano Deore is a great choice for components. Road bike users can opt for Shimano 105 or better components for their bikes. Apart from this, you need to ensure that you get a triple chain ring up in order to ensure your wheels spin properly when going up steep hills with all your touring gear.

Lastly, it is very important for you to choose the proper frame for your bike as well. Picking the right construction will help ensure you get the maximum out of your tours. There are many materials from which touring bikes are made although the best frame to go for on such bicycles is steel. Steel has a number of advantages over other frames. Its increased flexibility makes it easier for you to ride for long durations and since it is available quite easily you will be able to get it repaired without too much trouble.

There are quite a few options available when it comes to choosing touring bikes but there is only one right option. Make sure you choose the right option or you might find yourself spending more time fixing your bike than actually riding it.