I set up the Goiter to do some short (50-100k per day) self-supported 1-
or 2-day tours.
140mm cranks provide a good balance between torque and speed for my
purpose.
The bag is a Jandd Mountain Wedge 3... 7.47 liter (456 cubic inch)
capacity. It provides as much as volume as you'll find in many rack
bags. It fits well within the confines of the space available, and it
keeps the mass of my cargo close to the seat tube...compared to a
rack/trunk combo. I utilized a length-adjustable tandem stoker stem to
mount it. The boom below the bag acts as a stabalizer and potential
fender/accessory mount. Heavy items will go in the Jandd bag:
toiletries, tools, spare tube, first aid, food, alcohol stove, fuel, ti
cook pot, eating utensils, tea light lantern with 3 tea lights (enough
for 12+ hours of light), LED flashlight, paperback book, notebook and
pen, firestarting stuff, misc. Most of my gear is ultralight and
compact, so it will fit easily in the Jandd bag or my backpack.
Lighter bulky items (down sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent or hammock,
clothes) will go in an ultralight (255 gram) Dana Designs backpack. The
total weight on my back should stay under 3.6 kg (8 lbs). The backpack
has a pouch for my 3 liter (100 oz) water bladder. I'll fill it when I
get close to my campsite.
I can still mount a Magura rim brake system, if I remove the upper
bottle cage to make room for the brake lever. If necessary, I can mount
both bottle cages on a separate forward-facing boom that clamps to the
seat tube (like the one that anchors the bottom of the Jandd bag. I
won't need the brake on my next outing...my route utilizes a lot of
mellow rails-to-trails bike paths, but I'll probably remount it in the
future.
I was entertaining the thought of using a GB4 handle on my Miyata seat.
But, I figured it might be nice to try some different handle positions,
and I like my Velo saddle better than the Miyata. So, I kept the Velo
saddle on and made a modular handle system. I can adjust the barend
positions easily by changing barend tilt, stem position, stem length,
and stem angle. It's not as tough as a GB4, and I'm sure it would be
damaged in a crash. I'll just have to concentrate on not crashing.
Eventually, I'll get my position dialed in and braze together a new
handle out of cromoly....replicating my desired position. The longer
handle (how it's pictured) lets me tuck my arms in and get low in a
headwind.
I've ridden around Minneapolis with my rig loaded up, so I could check
out the riding characteristics before heading out on an overnight. It
seems fine. As you'd imagine, it takes a little more work to turn,
accelerate, and decelerate, but it's very rideable. The 3.7" tires
allow for a plush ride. I prefer my air cushion next to the ground vs.
on top of the saddle. I'm heading out to the western 'burbs of
Minneapolis (50km out, 50km back) in a couple of weeks to test the
system. I'll have more feedback then.
Dave
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SurlyDave - Surly MC
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