I have a lightweight (10 kg) cross bike that I am thinking about using to join a friend on a three-day trip. It has thin wheels and an aluminium frame
Currently I use it for city rides and the occasional commute - a job it does well. This time, though, I will need to take along a light tent, sleeping bag, a small amount of clothing and a few other bits for this trip and I was wondering whether the bike would be up to the job. And, if so, how best to fit it all on.
Conditions should be fine and the ride nothing too strenuous or unexpected.
I have a lightweight (10 kg) cross bike that I am thinking about using to join a friend on a three-day trip. It has thin wheels and an aluminium frame
Currently I use it for city rides and the occasional commute - a job it does well. This time, though, I will need to take along a light tent, sleeping bag, a small amount of clothing and a few other bits for this trip and I was wondering whether the bike would be up to the job. And, if so, how best to fit it all on.
I don't see any reason why it wouldn't be suitable. Add a rear rack and some panniers to carry your gear and you should be set. If the bike has eyelets for attaching the rack that would be great, but otherwise just get some 'P'-shaped clamps from a local hardware store that'll fit around the seatstays near the top and bottom and use those to secure the rack. If possible get clamps that are vinyl-covered to protect the bike finish and resist slipping. Or cut up an old inner tube to wrap around the stays for protection.
but otherwise just get some 'P'-shaped clamps from a local hardware store that'll fit around the seatstays near the top and bottom and use those to secure the rack
P-shaped clamps usually can't be tight enough to avoid the rack rubbing the frame. Buy several sizes and experiment. Do a LOADED test ride first. Take off the rack and clamps. if the rack has left even the smallest scratch on the frame, consider another option...
