I want to get into bike touring but can't afford anything new or flash. I commute every day and have done some longer rides but usually ride road bikes. I figure it would be better to get something more relaxed if I'm going to tour. I've found this second hand Avanti commuter bike which is affordable. I thought I might be able to use it to start my touring journey? Figure I can put some more hardy tyres on and attach some racks/bags.
I feel a bit intimidated touring (which is why I haven't gotten started!) so would love any advice if there's something I'm overlooking.
by Garrincha14
3 Comments
Tour on whatever you’ve got, I tour on a road bike, don’t think I could do long days without a few changes of hand position on the bars but each to their own.
Alot of road bikes have mounts for mudguards, you can put racks on there too. Or QR mounted racks? Otherwise you’re looking at frame bags and bikepacking… but yeah for longer and heavier touring get something for suited.
Edit – That bike pictured about looks like a decent touring option doesn’t it? If it fits, why not?
If you are looking to get started with touring, this bike should be fine! Biggest concern is fit – make sure it fits you well – well enough to ride comfortably for multiple hours a day, for consecutive days. You can fine-tune if it’s close, and replace parts like the saddle to your liking, but if the overall fit doesn’t work for you, pass this up for something else. A poorly-fitting bike is a waste of money at any price.
It really looks like a decent base. People overestimate how much bike you need to go touring. You mostly want comfort and reliability.
I cannot see the groupset or the state of the gears and cogs but that would be my first concern. If they are good quality, in a good shape, if you can easily find replacements parts… 3×9 speed is relatively safe. (Be sure your crank is one you can change the gears and not a single unit.)
If not, there is a touring specific Shimano déore 3×9 that exists and shouldn’t be expensive.
The other point would be comfort:
Multi-position bars are a good thing. Some are cheap like the “trekking” handlebars that do a weird loop, some are more expensive like the VO crazy bars or the surly ones. Choose what suits you best, but changing hands position thru a day is a must.
A good seat is also a must. Some swear by Brooks leather saddles, but those are expensive. Some synthetic saddles like ergon are said to be quite comfortable.
For the rest, go at your own pace, don’t be afraid to try tweaking your positioning and have fun.