Long story short, I bought this 91 Raleigh Technium 400 hybrid bike in almost unused condition to commute to work (I already had a 88 Technium tri-lite pre and thought this would watch). I then thought maybe I can use it to bike the Ohio to Erie Trail this fall which is like 320 miles, with like 40 miles or so being hard pact gravel I've heard, the rest being rail to trails. The widest tire I can fit in this frame is 32mm, and the rims are also 27in for some reason. I have conti ride/tour on them now. A quick Google tells me this should be fine for touring, but what do you guys think? I have a front rack I just haven't installed yet. I'm slightly concerned about the bonded aluminum frame of these Technium bikes and how loading the frame up with camping stuff might be a problem, but this one is in really good shape overall though. I think just the 3 main tubes are aluminum, with the fork and chain/sear stays being cromoly. I did just recently come across a 94 Rockhopper which I could put my racks on and use that instead (pic included). What do you guys think? This will be my first bike packing trip (plenty of backpacking though). I appreciate your advice!
by m_saxer
7 Comments
320 miles? Send it.
lights.
Looks great! You’ll have a great time!
I rode a section of the Erie last year and with the 32mm tires you will be fine.
I like the Raleigh. Nice bit of kit!
I just completed 2 days ago on 28mm tires, you’ll be fine. Some sections of the natural trail sections are decently muddy with the wet weather so make sure you give your bike a good clean at the end of each day and carry extra lube. As always spare inner tubes are a must. The section between Utica and Syracuse don’t have many bike shops
My buddy and I did the OTET on 23mm and 25mm tires on road bikes. May be slightly uncomfortable in Cuyahoga, otherwise will be smooth sailing.
Enjoy the ride!