6-day tour of 900 km on a vintage road bike
Just finished a 6-day, 900km bike tour through the scenic landscapes of France and Belgium. Faced a lot of rain, but that made the rare sunshine even more rewarding. The journey was tough, but the wild camping nights and amazing views were well worth it.
The bike is a Duell Milano from around 1993. I switched out the fork to accommodate a rack. Built the wheels with a dynamo hub in the front and for a 10 speed cassette in the back (130 mm spacing). Tyre clearance is at best 28 mm, so that’s what’s on there, continental GP5000 28 mm. I ran the tyres at ~85 psi, no punctures. I rode primarily on bikepaths and asphalt roads, with the occasional gravel in between.
Bike without food, water and bags is 11.1 kg, with water and bags is 23.7 kg (no food)
The last three years I’ve been touring in national parks on my mtb, this time around I wanted a large distance road tour. Although it was much faster, I don’t think I will do another road tour with 28 mm tyres and no full fenders 😉.
I started in 2017 with biketouring/bikepacking, started with a big 2 person tent, had a hammock phase, then went to a ultralight tent of 1 kg, but now reside on a bivy bag with tarp if there is rain. Must admit that if the weather is really bad (like on this tour) I do take the occasional hotel.
Happy to answer any questions or take any advice for future trips!
by Karieltje