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Bike Recommendations & Tips
Sample Road Bikes |
|
| Bianchi | Volpe |
| Cannondale | Synapse 7 or Touring 1 |
| Giant | Defy 2 or OCR 3 |
| REI | Novara Safari or Novara Randonee |
| Specialized | Allez, Sequoia or Dolce |
| Surly | Cross Check or Long Haul Trucker |
1000, 1.2, 1.5, or 520 |
|
Sample Components |
|
| Tires | 700 x 25c |
| Shifters | Shimano Sora STI, 105, Tiagra, 9 speed |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Sora Triple, 105, Tiagra |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Sora Triple, 105, Tiagra |
| Crank | 53/39, 50/39/30, or 52/42/30 |
| Cassette | SRAM PG850 or PG950 12-26, 8 or 9 speed |
| Pedals | Nylon body w/alloy cage; clips and straps |
| Handlebars | Road Sport |
| Brakeset | Alloy dual pivot w/Shimano Sora STI levers |
Frame |
It doesn’t have to accommodate a rear rack but a bike with eyelets is preferred. |
You do not need a top of the line bike to make if from the beginning to the end of this bike trip. There are some things to consider when determining if the old bike in your garage will work or if you need something a little better.
Talk to Trusted Pros
We strongly suggest you consult your local bike shop and seek advice from the experts. Visit a couple shops and get a few opinions. Let them know you are doing a cross country bike trip but not carrying any of your gear. This is called a supported tour. If you already have a bike, have them check it out and give it a tune up.
If you don’t have a bike, ask the employees to show you a few different bikes and explain the differences. Be sure to give them your price range ahead of time. It important you give them your “bike size” and they can help you figure this out. Test ride a couple of bikes and take your time to decide. If you have any questions about the bike and the price, please contact us.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a bike that is adequate to ride cross country but be prepared to spend around $500 or more. Listed on this page are sample bikes that have been used on similar tours and components to look for when you are bike shopping. Try not to get bogged down by all the numbers. These components are offered on most entry level road bikes.
How do I get my bike to my starting point?
Many airlines allow you to bring your bike as checked luggage. You will need to break the bike down and pack it in a bike box. If you are unfamiliar with how to do this, consult a local bike shop.
You might also consider shipping your bike via Amtrak, Greyhound, FedEx, UPS, etc. Again you will be required to break the bike down. Here are two great resources for boxing and shipping your bike: