I want to "test drive" self supported touring, and i do not want yet to go into the expense of buying a good touring bike. In addition to the financial side, if I discover touring is not for me, I do not want to end up with another useless bike in my garaj. You know what I mean, "Sell 10 year old bike with 100 miles on it!"
I am left with two options:
1. Add panniers, etc. to my old road bike. It has a good quality steel frame, and good 32 spokes wheels. The problem is that I can fit max 700x25 tires.
It has enough low speeds, and as I live in Southwestern Ontario, there are no hills around, just winds.
2. Adapt my good mountain bike: panniers, slicks, bar ends, etc. Problem with adding panniers, due to compact frame, and front suspension. May not take big panniers.
3. Buy a cheap hybrid bike /panniers etc. After test drive, keep panniers and give it away.
I intend to do just few days self supported trips not far from home. I do not mind a "low" probability of something going really bad. In extreme case I can use the best repair tool: a cell phone, and my wife can get me.
Both optios have pros and cons. I used both bikes for day long trips, but without any load. I am not able to make a decision which way to go.
Any help and opinion will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.