My wife and I have toured the world (from Japan to Cuba, Norway, Portugal, ...) using two KOGA WorldTravellers. I think the key for touring is NOT weight: the bike must be strong and stiff to carry the full load safely. Our bikes are 17 kg. I agree one must be ready to spend some money: cheaper is not better. I agree that very short gears are necessary, as we will carry load, climb, and get tired at the end of the day, when the stop is still 20 km away. Mudguards may not sound sexy but are very useful. We had a 2 weeks holiday in Norway with a couple of sunny spells only.....those mudguards helped keep the bike and us cleaner, and the chain and gears thanked me! Schwalbe Marathon 37 mm are perfect in my opinion. Hydraulic brakes are overrated. We came down in the rain from Norwegian passes with mechanically operated V brakes: we had a lot of braking power! Besides, hydraulics are more susceptible to failure/ malfunctions. The side stands is undoubtedly useful, but comes at a price: weight. Ortlieb bags are the way to go.Of course one must learn the art of taking only what one REALLY needs. Happy cycling to all!
@alchemygal32854 жыл бұрын
there is not one biker dude on youtube thats more detailed and incredibley useful to help anyone no matter their level of understanding bikes. your amazing and thank you.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I appreciate that!
@daronieogarniaro3 жыл бұрын
100% agree with You. He make amazing content movies.
@virgilwilliams23784 жыл бұрын
I love 3x drivetrains. Their a life saver to my R. bad knee when climbing hills. And i hate it when other You Tubers talk badly about them.
@regieendsley97504 жыл бұрын
Best thing I've found for when my knees are acting up is an electric-assist bike.
@chrisfloyd73164 жыл бұрын
You can really tell when a designer loves the types of rides they're designing a bike for. Great choices and excellent video.
@themoodyteam4 жыл бұрын
‘For cheaper, buy older’ solid advice 👍
@boneshakerpanniers88534 жыл бұрын
For better, buy older.....like the Miyata 1000. The best touring bike ever made. This is a bike that truly stands out and is timeless. The second hand market is awesome!
@themoodyteam4 жыл бұрын
Why, thank you for the ❤️. 😊
@themoodyteam4 жыл бұрын
boneshaker panniers: thanks for the heads up 👍
@jophys4 жыл бұрын
@@themoodyteam 8
@Mr.Robert14 жыл бұрын
The bonuses you get giant eyebrows
@jaredlash50023 жыл бұрын
I just wanted to say, and hope you see this, that based on this video I ended up buying a Vivente Deccan (the drop bar model). So far I've put about 1700km on it and it has been great. :)
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
That's awesome! Congrats. 👍🏻
@TwowheeledChronicles4 жыл бұрын
It doesn't really matter what bike you ride. It's important why you ride. My wife and I rode from Europe to Australia on budget non-touring bikes, which cost 350 euros each .. And we were happy!
@jimjiminyjaroo3003 жыл бұрын
👍
@ulibredulli4 жыл бұрын
As an east German, growing up with Diamant bikes, I am giddy to see one featured, here. The funky handlebar is a tribute to the old handlebars, and yes, it's awful 😅
@albertdesalvo72733 жыл бұрын
IMO, the Santos Travelmaster is a very well-engineered and thought-out tourer.
@avici01823 жыл бұрын
I am in awe of the amount of information and knowledge this content creator is dishing out. Thank you
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching! 😊
@davebaucom88464 жыл бұрын
I just bought a Disk Trucker to replace my Fargo. I enjoyed the Fargo but being 6"6' needed a larger frame. Got the Trucker in a 64cm. Wasn't on his list, hopeful I won't be disappointed.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
You won't be disappointed. The Trucker is owned and loved by more people than any other touring bike. 👍🏻
@MrRealdeal684 жыл бұрын
I just rode a Disc Trucker from Alaska to Baja Mexico. You will not be disappointed in the bike.
@davehoover88534 жыл бұрын
Nice to hear a clear, succinct rundown on these great bikes. The market is so saturated and the lines are really getting blurry with addition of “gravel” bikes. Great video and presentation.
@johnwelch5574 жыл бұрын
Gears... you're right on the button. Wide slicks, yes. They must be super durable with "flat protection". I never buy new. Just grab excellent bikes that were new, "latest and greatest" say around 2000 days ago or so. Thanks!
@BangTheRocksTogether4 жыл бұрын
Well... I bought a 2018 new on pretty much the day that the 2020s came out. 20% off an already reasonable price leaves me with a warranty, and free support from the retailer. (Which turned out to be necessary, as their initial assembly was merely adequate.) I'm mechanical enough to buy used, but not everyone is capable of rotecting themselves...
@ososdechengdu3 жыл бұрын
Flex of the year: “Bike designers often don’t tour themselves”
@HeatherSpoonheim4 жыл бұрын
I love my Cannondale Topstone 105 alloy. I realize the drive train might not be beefy enough for crossing a continent, but given that half my riding is on pavement, I love the efficiency.
@rickmason25794 жыл бұрын
REI Co-Op ADV 1.1 (AKA Novara Randone). Fit is very important, so being able to try a bike before purchasing should be a key criteria. But in the US, few shops carry touring bikes. REI seems to be the exception. So that's what I picked, and have ridden cross country 2 1/2 times. Comfortable, stable and strong.
@MyLifeInTheDesert4 жыл бұрын
Why is the weight limit on that bike 250 lbs though
@dougfromsoanierana4 жыл бұрын
If you really want to build a custom bike, the Soma Wolverine frame can run anything from a single speed up to a Rohloff hub with a belt drive (my preference). It also handles 700c tires up to 47cm with fenders.
@LV.32232 жыл бұрын
I think the best bike is one with a personal made frame which fits on you perfectly. The parts like Schmidt Dynamo Rohloff Hub and other parts like Tubus and you got the best bike
@ForeverDownByLaw3 жыл бұрын
Love my Giramondo 27.5. I ditched the aggressive tires for some Panaracer Gravel King slicks as I ride mostly paved roads. Just a fun and capable bike that is very comfortable. Very impressed by the mix of components, they are very well chosen and work as a coherent whole.
@michelboucquey58544 жыл бұрын
Hi, thanks for the video. My personnel choice was the Fahrradmanufaktur tx400. Perfect for crossing Europe from west to east. Equiped with Shimano XT transmission, and Magura hydraulic brakes.
@0fficialnomad4 жыл бұрын
Fat Recumbent Trike touring... Personally, I believe it's the ultimate touring cycle. Mine now has 11.8 to 93.5 gear inches so I can climb about ANYTHING. The amount of room I have for carrying camping gear is waaaay more room than I need. I just fell in love and 2 wheels are in the past for me now. I've started making videos with it, but only have 100 followers so far. Hopefully I can encourage others to give recumbent trikes a try.
@amhyreally4 жыл бұрын
I'd put the Salsa marakesh in that list. With its 42mm stock tires, disk breaks, amazing geometry it can take all terrain like its a smooth road. Plus it comes with a back rack that can handle 60 pounds.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
It was very close between the Marrakesh and Sutra! The Sutra ended up winning because of the spec and price, but I think the Marrakesh is the nicer frameset.
@gblan3 жыл бұрын
I went with a Salsa Journeyman Apex 1. Origin 8 Batbars, Bontrager mudguards and lights, Racktime rack, Ergon saddle and grips. Panaracer tubeless setup and it's a dream to ride all day long.
@flamergamer94654 жыл бұрын
That was a nice round up. I still think lower gears are needed. I got mine down to 16.5 inches using a combo of ultegra at the front and Deorre XT at the back. Any one of those bikes can have their gears extended with a wolf tooth and a stupidly large dinner plate on the back. I wouldn’t worry about gears as all of those would still need a mod. Comfort and wheels would be top of my list. Great round up.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
16.5" is very low! Nice work. My next bike might be similar if I switch to a 50-24t Rohloff setup...
@UncleManuel3 жыл бұрын
Surly Bridge Club with 2.4" Super Moto? Jepp, that's what is standing in my garage. Drop in SKS 75U fenders, a Rohloff Speedhub and a good rack and you'll have a good allrounder. I drive every day to work with it and some touring in between. Once you get used to the Speedhub you'll never want to go back to "normal" shifting...😉😎👍
@vinnerf264 жыл бұрын
You know your bikes and specs 🤓 I am absolutely in love with my Santos 2.9 (and their other models too) Everything is highly customizable. They are a Dutch brand as well as Koga and in my opinion they both make superb touring bicycles. But the prices are well.... just as steep as climbing that hill in your video 🤪 Have a great day! ❤️
@radumutu4 жыл бұрын
Best touring bike is .... the one u got and have memories with :)
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Too true!
@terrencebranscombe32574 жыл бұрын
Like my 1983 (?) Apollo Gran Tourissimo. Rocky Mountains (Jasper - Banff), Waterton Lakes, Quebec City to Charlottetown via Gaspé, Olympic Peninsula circle route. Fully loaded, it probably weighed in like a boxcar.
@Mraquanetchris4 жыл бұрын
@Jony The Ogre is a 29" wheel. Bridge Club is a 27.5" I haven't looked lately - however the components on the Ogre possibly are a step up and has a different frame geometry from the BC. If you're choosing between the two, personally I'd go for the BC - It's a great rig for the $.
@golaoi4 жыл бұрын
Have had a Thorn Raven Tour for 10y. It's a great bike. Lowest gear I have 18 inches. Rohloff brilliant. Rear wheel very strong. Bike is heavy but tank-like. V brakes with tungsten impregnated rims. So far have done 30,000 miles. 26in wheels.
@BangTheRocksTogether4 жыл бұрын
I bought a 2018 Kona Sutra last year. Pleased to see it on your list. 40mm Schwalbe Marathon Mondials, a nice wide flared bar, and bottle mounts on the fork tick enough gravel bike boxes to make it just the right thing for me. More than I expected and for a mere $1500 Canadian. Thanks again, really enjoying your videos.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
That sounds great! Thanks for dropping by.
@fatsotherower25794 жыл бұрын
I tour on a Thorn Nomad with a Rohloff drivetrain (chain, not belt); Schmidt SON dynamo lighting and USB charging and XT rim brakes on CSS hardened rims. Apart from the absence of a kickstand, it's a lovely setup. Thanks for your video. Lots to enjoy. Safe travels.
@friarrodneyburnap43363 жыл бұрын
I ride a Surly Troll with Marathon plus touring tires...26×1.75 this turns my bicycle into an All Terrain Bicycle...I am also using Lone Peak Panniers front and back a Rogue Panda frame bag...and a Carridice Super C Saddlebag as a Handle bar roller pack...I have Butterfly handlebars, with a tall stem riser, and a B17 brooks saddle and tall seat post...I am also using Surly Nice Racks...for the large top rack...
@rainerhorn35244 жыл бұрын
I find the handlebars on the Diamant rather cool.
@maurorestrepo46834 жыл бұрын
I love my fuji touring, very good touring bike at great price
@stefanosalerni563 жыл бұрын
I have my fuji for two years, I am very happy, a great choice!
@jay-fit4 жыл бұрын
I have a 2020 Diamondback Haanjo 5C Exp Carbon which I bought at $1700 after discount. I rode about 150 miles (241km) so far. A nice solid bike. I am coming from MTB so I am still adjusting my body to the lower height of drop-bar handles. I installed a rear rack, a saddle bag and a frame bag, and it is ready to grind gravels. It is lightweight and fast. It makes me want to ride so bad. The pretty brown color makes me want to drink coffee. Derailleurs already need some truing though.
@friarrodneyburnap43364 жыл бұрын
I love Butterfly handle bars for all kinds of touring...
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
They'd be a great fit on many of these bikes.
@leslieshroot91553 жыл бұрын
I am living in Melbourne and was considering the vivente. Great to see an Australian bike has made your shortlist. So hard to find a bike that comes standard with Rack, Hub Gear, Dynamo, Fenders and Belt Drive.
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
Go for it! Vivente are always tinkering with their spec, they get better by the year.
@albionmerrick2 жыл бұрын
I have a Fuji Touring series iv from the 80’s; buying older definitely works well!
@grahamlucas16482 жыл бұрын
Very belated thanks for this. On your recommendation I bought the Canyon Pathlite 4. I have since toured cycling from Aberdeen to the Shetlands on a section of the North Sea Coast Cycle Route - Eurovelo 12. The bike was amazing. As you advised I got a couple of Ortlieb panniers and a Kletscher kickstand. The bike was super comfortable on any terrain and I had no ill effects whatsoever. Note - this model is now discontinued and the entry level bike is now the Pathlite 5.
@Cyclingabout2 жыл бұрын
Great to hear! All the best.
@bigguy644 жыл бұрын
You can't go past the Vivente for price and quality. I have the bike featured in the video. I'm 115kg on a good day. I load it and ride it up hill and down dale. It's stiff, comfortable for my long torso and very reliable. Paid $2500 AUD. Oh, it also came with 6(?) spare DT Swiss spokes, dynamo hub and Busch and Muller lights. Vivente have a comprehensive website with all the technical info you would want. Five stars from me.
@LeoInterHyenaem4 жыл бұрын
I'd favour the following bikes above most in the list: - RodeoLabs FlaAnimal - EvansCycles Pinnacle Arkose - Cannondale TopStone - Norco Search XR Steel Although not strictly touring bikes (and in most cases, not touring bikes by any measure), My favourites would be gravel / adventure bikes like the: - anything Bastion Cycles - anything Métier Vélo - Salsa WarBird 2019 / 2020 - Accent Feral - Accent Freak - Simplon Inissimo - Simplon Pavo GranFondo - Simplon Kiavo Disc - Genesis Datum - Merida Silex 7000 2020 - Merida Silex + 8000-E - Norco Search XR Carbon -…, etc. P.S.: My compliments to @Simplon for having the guts to manufacture dedicated touring, trekking & commuting carbon bikes (i.e., the SilkRoad -series). While not the finest carbon bikes by any measure, it's good to know there are a couple of manufacturers who do not shun from introducing carbon into the touring segment.
@spawneedave4 жыл бұрын
Absolutely love my Trek 920 (2019). Comfiest ride I’ve ever had. Handles most surface. Just wish it had a better selection of gears - it’s very, very slow on flat surfaces (which is okay when fully loaded, but not when lightly loaded and shorter rides).
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I'm a big fan of the 920. The big gear shouldn't be too bad, that's 32KPH @ 60RPM cadence, and 48KPH @ 90RPM cadence! You must be a lightning fast rider to be averaging those kind of speeds on the flat on your 920. 💪🏼
@spawneedave4 жыл бұрын
CYCLINGABOUT I wish I was fast! I think I average 12mph on my trek (when going downhill with the wind behind me) 😂🚵♀️
@HotelPapa1004 жыл бұрын
For those who want to convert gear inches to the more commonly used 'progression meters' in Europe: Multiply gear inches by 0.08 or divide by 12.5
@boxlid2144 жыл бұрын
I've been riding a Salsa Vaya Travel for 5yrs and love it. I just bought the frameset and built my own using Velocity Aileron wheels, Rohloff rear hub + CoMotion's twist shifter, Hope front hub, Exogram crank with a 46 ring, and some other goodies. The racks are the Salsa alternator rear, and Salsa lowrider fronts (the lightweight discontinued ones). Amazing bike, I started with a normal 2x10 drivetrain and replaced it with the Rohloff recently. I recommend investing in that hub/drivetrain if you can fork out the money, it's well worth it and should last the rest of your life. Not so sure I recommend anything with flat handlebars, they're the absolute worst for long distance touring.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Sounds like a great build! Agree with the Rohloff sentiments. I've crossed multiple continents with both flat bars and drops! I won't be going back to the drops anytime soon. 👍🏻
@boxlid2144 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout There's so many hand positions to use on drops though. Having the right tape is key, along with a frame geometry that raises the bars some. I love being able to take an aggressive position when it's windy as well, it really helps. Everyone is different though, to each their own lol
@vincentvanveen4 жыл бұрын
For me it's Santos 2.8 travel master. Together with IDworx an Koga, Santos is the absolute top of the Dutch Bike Market (IDworx is a German Company founded by a Dutchman). At Santos and IDworx every detail is looked at, and parts are hand made.
@g.d.17224 жыл бұрын
The Fuji Touring is available with disk brakes so you don't have to compromise on braking power. BTW it makes every touring bike top 10 list because it's a very good bike, is available in eveny market in the world and is so damn cheap (which is always a major consideration for bike tourers). No wonder it's been around almost unchanged for 40 years. Thumbs up on very good list of bikes overall!!!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I probably should've mentioned it is available with disc brakes too. But I think the rim brake model is the particularly good value option.
@user-ht6em6po5u4 жыл бұрын
My Finna Landscape steel rigid fork flexes too much when braking downhill, even with no luggage. It is scary. An interesting topic for a video, imo. Thank you for the channel!!
@dzonibravo78673 жыл бұрын
Cube travel seem to be best value for money. And it's nice looking too.
@Daniel-wb4lr4 жыл бұрын
Much cheapness, 2019 kona dew, pizza rack on front cube rear rack, 40mm rise fatbar cut to 760 and tioga power studs, wtb resolute tyres is what I ride
@s.vanamesfoort84744 жыл бұрын
Hi, nice video :), you forgot Santos Bikes and IDworx :) I use my IDworx easy transport for over 13 years now and is still super stiff and comfortable, Idworx has also killer discbrakes, much better than the shimano's. Too bad i cant use them so I still use my magura rimbrakes:).
@vincentvanveen4 жыл бұрын
Santos has an option for Hope Discbrakes, at an extra price of €500....
@smithbrownjones3 ай бұрын
The MASI splatter paint job is the same as what Peugoet did on their Ventoux road bike in 1990... 😁
@toddburgman70324 жыл бұрын
Good call on the Cube Travel !! I have an 2018 Cube Travel Exec 29er and it's been a fantastic touring bike. The Schwalbe 29er Balloon tires ride like a dream over all terrain. It's like riding a suspension bike. Bought it online for pick up in Germany at the beginning of a 3,500 km bike tour. Came with the rear rack, kickstand, lights and dynamo hub for a great price.
@yokehuatgoh4 жыл бұрын
dunno much about bikes but the salsa marrakesh has me dreaming about riding in far away lands..
@Mike-ql4sz2 жыл бұрын
Question from a newbie: when u multiply w front chainr. /divide by the rear cog what is the ring/cog that you use? The smallest / biggest? Thank u so much!
@anttitapio41453 жыл бұрын
Kona sutra takes kick stand easily. Just choose a model that contacts rear triangle from two points...like ATRAN Stylo Uni
@alanhaddy74994 жыл бұрын
Wish I had more money, would pick myself a nice dynamo hub cube or koga, also have to be able to afford it getting stolen aswell! Looks a great review list
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I've never had a bike stolen! I think when you are really careful with your bike you can really minimise the risk. 😎
@driventomadness1174 жыл бұрын
I picked up a Diamant 135 and love it. Those 29er tires are redic.. awesome roll over. I just monster truck right over everything.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
It's awesome that touring bikes now have nice big wheels and tyres! And if you don't want them, you can also fit 40mm slicks. 😎
@wilshirewarrior27833 жыл бұрын
Those bars on the Diamante may look funky but they are %100 better than straight or drop for touring
@Mr_LH19803 жыл бұрын
I was going to Cycle Beijing to Hong Kong in 2020. Covid came and spoiled that. I'm watching for next year.
@terencem8813 жыл бұрын
This is great. Somebody talking sense about bikes. Fantastic!
@mattrg3204 жыл бұрын
nothing will replace my Surly LHT
@stevegraham30414 жыл бұрын
Stopped making them now too
@Vegan_Touring_Cyclist4 жыл бұрын
I am a Surly fanboy myself, I love steel frames. But you can not beat a good recumbent in comfort. You can forget chafing, back, neck, wrist -and so on- pain. So I would put a recumbent on to the list. Azub Mini is a very good touring bike. For paved roads you can not beat this, and a simple dirt road is not a problem for it. But it is not suitable for really hard terrain, I mean mtb terrain.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
One day I will cross a continent or two on a recumbent. But at the moment, I'm loving the MTB terrain I find myself on.
@Vegan_Touring_Cyclist4 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout I totally understand this. I have a 94 classic Diamondback, and I love to ride it. But I am not able to do more than 40km a day on it without pain.
@kenzgevhartchannel3 жыл бұрын
Marin FourCorners could be another budget option.
@rbaleksandar4 жыл бұрын
I went on a 7 month trip across Europe with a tent last year. I picked a VSF TX800 (VSF Fahrradmanufaktur is a German manufacturer). I have to say for the amount of kilometres this bike went through (I bought the bicycle end of Jan 2019, tested it for a month, did the trip (15000km) and then some more when I returned till the end of the year - all together more than 17500km) I can say the almost 2000EUR price was worth it. I packed a LOT of crap with me (prepared myself for 4 seasons travel + tech equipment incl. big laptop and a big DSLR camera XD) so during the trip my two poor wheels had to endure approx. 150kg weight. These bikes are really nice. I would (for a next trip) do my own modifications and add/remove stuff though from basically all of these. Why? Because manufacturers, as you've mentioned in your video, often use the skills of bicycle designers with little to no experience in long distance traveling. Why do you need a kick stand on such a bicycle at all? Sure, if you travel lightly for just a few days, it's not a deal but if you are traveling with a lot of gear + several days of food and water supplies this thing will SNAP in a couple of weeks or even days. Mine did. From experienced touring cyclist I met on the road I learned the good old stick (for the frame) + band (for the front brake) trick to hold my bicycle in place even with all the stuff on it. My advice is following: - whatever bicycle you pick for a long travel (several months or even years) don't cheap out - if you expect to travel tens of thousands of kilometres with a second hand used bicycle you bought for 60EUR...Well, yeah...Might work...But it will be close to a miracle. XD - never go with as few non-standard or too high tier components as possible - what is available on every corner in a major European city for example may not be available in some forsaken village in Asia, Africa or Central/South America. You break it, you are f@cked big time! And parts will fail. It is inevitable. No matter how good you take care of your bicycle components you will have to be replacing stuff - chain, cassette, crank set etc. - spend the time investigating your route and modify your setup where necessary - you don't want to be swapping bicycle parts on the road just because these are not suitable for what you are doing...Trust me.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
It sounds like you had a poorly engineered kickstand. I've never broken one and I use them dozens of times per day on my multiyear bike trips. Definitely a must have item IMO.
@LeoInterHyenaem4 жыл бұрын
The Simplon Inissimo shown on the right at 1:59 is a beauty!!! I'd love to have it!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I agree, it's a very well-proportioned bike!
@michalklimkiewicz74224 жыл бұрын
Hi, What about Marin Four Corners. It seems like great value for money and it looks like a solid bike. Would you recommend it? Cheers.
@ickeausberlin364 жыл бұрын
I am sad to hear the Diamant 135 is rather a rebranded Trek. I realise they are owned by Trek but throwing a "collections bike" on the market that does not have a frame of it's own is disappointing. Having been raised in Eastern Germany I feel connected to the brand and I wish Diamant would produce a bike that ticks my boxes. The 135 is nice and has a lovely retro look. Still it is not close enough for me as I probably would change the drive train at least. I dream about Diamant releasing a road (race) bike similar to the metallic blue (or silver) ones I drooled over as a kid, just with modern parts.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
There would be no Diamant without Trek. They didn't kill the brand, they resurrected it. Diamant is still run from the German office and has its own product management, design, and marketing teams. Gotta do the best you can with the resources you're given.
@ickeausberlin364 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout Sure. I never meant to say Trek killed the brand. However I was in believe Diamant are still coming up with their own bikes and I just found out I was wrong.
@moirahornik45623 жыл бұрын
It's really useful to get to know some bikes I haven't heard of before. Great video, thanks.
@horaciodedona39124 жыл бұрын
raleigh sojurn. It is a bit heavy, with a BIG down tube but I call it THE ROCK. it just don't break. I salute you by the way and follow you every where
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
It was sad to see the Sojourn not appear in the 2016 Raleigh catalogue. Those oversized Reynolds 631 tubes were great for a touring rig - and rarely seen in other bikes.
@stevegraham30414 жыл бұрын
I’m a Thorn fan love the Sherpa would love a nomad
@SuperSlamminSammy4 жыл бұрын
Steve B I love my Nomad, not least because I built it up from a new frame with my own component list. Magura HS30 hydraulic rim brakes, Thompson seat post, n’Lock stem, SON dynamo hub, etc. etc. It’s solid as a rock, and bulletproof.
@stevegraham30414 жыл бұрын
SuperSlamminSammy I built my Sherpa similar
@DeniseLookingOut4 жыл бұрын
I’ve had my eyes on the Kona Sutra for awhile but the idea of a kickstand is enticing. Thanks for giving me food for thought. Currently riding a cheap entry-level Motobecane Turino. I’ve already had to replace the disc brakes in first 3yrs.
@fademasterfade2274 жыл бұрын
Great list Alee, some really interesting brands I hadn't heard of. I can attest to the DB Haanjo being a great bike; it's served me well on a couple of extended tours. Doesn't stop me from lusting after some of these other bikes though :)
@LissaMiliani4 жыл бұрын
No Giant Bicycles? I really Enjoy my Giant Toughroad SLR GX1 for touring here in CA. I did change the gearing to tackle more off-road. With a 42 cassette in the rear. Okay cheers.
@LissaMiliani4 жыл бұрын
Keep the Vids coming. Awesome job and good choices on bikes by the way.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I quite like the ToughRoad SLR GX1, but in a head-to-head, the Masi offers a bike that is much more suitable for off-road given the lower gear ratios, and likewise for the Surly Bridge Club - and both are a touch cheaper too. 😊
@Rikcey4 жыл бұрын
I was torn between the Giant Toughroad and the Trek 920 I decided that the Trek was more my style. But I agree the Toughroad is a great bike!
@rwkirk23273 жыл бұрын
Giant best buy more bang for the buck
@cooper99174 жыл бұрын
I just bought a used Masi Giramondo 27.5in 2016 model for $600 that included some nice extras, and then I got home and this video was recommended to me...
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
That's awesome!
@cooper99174 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout So inspired by your channel! Hope to be touring once the travel restrictions are far behind us.
@brucewmclaughlin90724 жыл бұрын
Within 2 minutes he hits the biggest problem with today's touring bikes . Gears that work for all those long hills , it is so much better to have a gear you can ride in than having a gear too low and the next too high. My slightly modified Bacchetta Giro A 20 touring recumbent is geared low 17"-96" and I run 153 mm crank arms .I would never consider going back to a normal diamond frame bike. The comfort levels on a bent are far superior to any diamond frame. No pain at the end of any day makes a tour so much better. As I can not stand up for the next 4-8 hours of riding, I just happen to be sitting in a really comfortable seat. There are drawbacks as I do not go on loose gravel , hop curbs or roots , but that is my choice as other bent users do not have the same limitations .. Price is comparable to a decent upright with the only difference in components being the seat and the handlebar riser. When your body hurts and you know that your bike fit is correct , it might be time to try something different.
@MCGPeaches4 жыл бұрын
late to the party and 1st view of amazing, detailed, and simple no-nonsense human reviews.
@yornoc3184 жыл бұрын
Awesome video! I appreciate the time and effort you put into your research.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
My pleasure!
@ladamyre13 жыл бұрын
To have heard your opinion of belt driven bikes with either Rohloff hub or Pinion gearbox crank sets, I'm surprised to see so many bikes on this list with derailleurs on them. It is my considered opinion that in 10 years, if you take your bike to a repair shop and it needs parts for a derailleur, you will have to wait for the parts to be ordered, chains excluded. Chains will still be in stock since there will still be chain drives on geared hubs and cranks, but belt drives will dominate. Derailleurs will be a specialty racing part that most bikes won't be using anymore. Lower priced belt drives will use Nexus 3 speed hubs or have no gears at all.
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
Rohloff/Pinion bikes didn't make the price criteria in this list as they are often 2X the price or more. That said, I will be creating a belt/gearbox category for the next video.
@pitchwife75734 жыл бұрын
astonished the thorn sherpa wasn't mentioned!
@BikingBas4 жыл бұрын
Time after time I'm astonished by the quality of your content, and knowing that you do most of it all by yourself is truly magnificent. Keep it up, and hope to see you on the road someday!
@PeterWarnock4 жыл бұрын
This is perfect - it's the clearest, to the point and best bike guide I have every watched!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Cheers. Glad it helped!
@sunesnigel4 жыл бұрын
it's very impressive how you're able to tour, make videos and answer question on all different platforms! And your content is really good as well! It would be interesting if you could get your hands on the Alfine 11 speed since they have upgraded it 2019 for e-bikes, supposedly it's stronger.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Cheers! I've had an Alfine 11 before, didn't know they'd re-worked it. It'd be interesting to know what they did to make it stronger.
@sunesnigel4 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout i have no clue, did spend some time trying to figure out but all it says it's that they made it stronger for e-bikes. As far as i understand you're still not able to shift while pedaling. Like so many others I'd love to have a gear hub and maybe, just maybe Shimano had offered a less expensive option now.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I used an 8-speed Alfine for years and couldn't kill it. It was super easy to rebuild too. Definitely recommended if you want to try a low-cost option. Main downside is drive efficiency, which is around 90% on average compared to 96%+ on a derailleur drivetrain.
@sunesnigel4 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout great to hear it from a trusted source! I understand 8s is grease filled and 11s oil filled. I think i could live with the effect loss and get used to it. Thanks for the input.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
That's right. You can see the efficiency graphs over here if you're interested: www.cyclingabout.com/speed-difference-testing-gearbox-systems/
@sanatandharma44354 жыл бұрын
Very nicely done, not too fast like some presenters. My price range is about £1000 and I have always fancied a Kona Sutra, but will more than likely buy a Genesis.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
The Genesis touring range is great. Enjoy!
@christee29084 жыл бұрын
Excellent review and video. You have only forgotten to mention SANTOS, another Dutch brand building you from the ground another best bike called the Worldtraveller 3.
@michaelmartin4383 Жыл бұрын
Honestly, I think you are correct the people who design and sell bikes don't actually ride themselves. If they did bikes would be a lot more useful than they are at the present, but all they think about is how good they look on Amazon.
@AbhishekVerma-wo1gm4 жыл бұрын
Nice video with a great pace of the commentary ... I would request you to kindly share your views about the Bergamont RD 7 please.
@joelmoreira64804 жыл бұрын
What about Cinelli Hobootleg, or Hobootleg Geo? Columbus steel!
@leradicideglialberi4 жыл бұрын
Absolutely, Columbus is the best
@Mettenkoster4 жыл бұрын
You mention Koga from the Netherlands but you should check Santos and Idworx. Idworx is the best in the world!!! both with rohloff or pinion, with gates belt or chain...Not cheap, but just the best!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I know the bikes well! But this list factors in the price. 👍🏻
@ArisaemaDracontium4 жыл бұрын
100% agree that most touring bikes are under-geared! I actually prefer a 17-18 gear-inches for on and off-road. It seems like minor differences, but 19 gear inches isn't low enough even on pavement, at least for western North America. 22x34 or 24x36 low gear will get this done on 700c wheels. Totally disagree on the kick stand thing though. There is almost always something to lean your bike on. And if you're in the desert and there isn't the bags aren't bad to lay the bike on.
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
That's what I thought about kickstands for a decade! And then I reluctantly got one and am a complete convert... best 250 grams on my whole bike.
@mellissanash75174 жыл бұрын
I have Bombtrack Beyond touring gravel bike that can 29x2.1 tires. I would have the Bombtrack Beyond+ ADV on this list as it can do 29x3.0 tires, come with the Jones bar, mounts galore, & a carbon fork. It's also a bit more mtb geo than the Fargo, which means a bit more stable descending.
@TrailsofCalifornia3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this video! I hope to start touring next spring!
@conanfa184 жыл бұрын
Awesome breakdown! Thank you.
@senasplage3 жыл бұрын
Almost half a million view fir this video in less than a year ! Congrats mate ! I really like your videos.
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
Thanks a lot!
@recyclespinning98394 жыл бұрын
If you can find a chromoly old school mountain bike, with rack mounte you have an ultimate touring bike. Takes wider tires , no toe overlap for city , can go on or off road, great gearing ,. Ps also Schwinn touring bikes made in Japan, Voyageur , Passage, that are made either with Columbus, Champion, or Tange tubed 80s ., provided no rust etc, ..I have them and have a Trek 930, and Schwinn Passage. PS , trick is finding a barely used one..,, I seem to run across almost " new old stock "ones not used. I guess the savings go down if you can't repack all the bearings etc, but even then most bike shops can do for 120, and the bike ,, depends on seller, but sometimes they let them go for peanuts...
@alejandroaranda52544 жыл бұрын
There's a big predujice for small wheels but if you want a super stiff frame with comfort suspension a Moulton it's the best. Also you miss CO motion they specialize in touring bikes only
@offom4 жыл бұрын
Fuji JARI 2.5? I am very much pleased with it :) I just changed the cassette to 11-40 (8 speed) and it keeps rolling!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Nice upgrade on the Jari 2.5! The 40t cassette is getting you 19 gear inches, nice and low for touring. 🤘🏼
@offom4 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout But you cannot fit a proper kickstand to it as other Fuji on your list. Would Pletscher Multi fit to Jari 2.5 too?
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
I don't think so, unfortunately.
@offom4 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout Thank you for all of your replies. I am quite bummed that so-called bikes are unsuitable for kickstands as if they are heavily tuned for racing, handling and geometry... Have a nice life :)
@doomedtolinger22134 жыл бұрын
Alas, no love for Soma. Bought my Saga on the cheap and after the mods it has proven itself to me. Thanks for all the hard work; it's easy to salivate over some of those models!
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
Cheers! Soma don't get to make this list because they're only available as frame sets. 👎🏻
@sisaktamas3 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout do you have any knowledge if they ship outside of north america?
@Cyclingabout3 жыл бұрын
@@sisaktamas I'm not too sure.
@sisaktamas3 жыл бұрын
@@Cyclingabout well after reading your previous comment from 6 months ago I immediately went to their website, clicked through all the ordering steps and at the end there's simply no button to click on to PLACE ORDER. I'm from eastern europe 😫
@secretdaisy64844 жыл бұрын
I bought a Kona Sutra many weeks ago. It's still in the box due to the Viral Zombie Apocalypse. I hope my state opens up so I can take it to the bike shop for assembly. Be safe. 👍☮️🌞🦠😷🚲
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
That's awesome! Congrats on the new bike.
@ruibritopt4 жыл бұрын
Quite a surprise to see my Diamant 135 featured here :)
@Cyclingabout4 жыл бұрын
No longer is this great value bike a secret in international touring markets. 😊
@BromptonTraveler4 жыл бұрын
Rui I am interested to hear from a owner of the Diamant 135. Love that bike look. Can you put fenders and how is the handlebar in actual use? Maybe one cam put grips on the original handlebar to give extra hand positions? Cheers
@ruibritopt4 жыл бұрын
@@BromptonTraveler The 57 Schwalbe G-One stock tires are the biggest size you can put on this bike, so if you really want fenders like myself then you are going to have to get new tires - for reference, I got the 50 Schwalbe G-One. In regards to the handlebars, I think it is not about the hands position but the fact that you feel cramped and that the geometry sizes are too far apart - L is 52cm and XL is 61cm I believe - I got a raised flat handlebar and it feels much better to me.
@BromptonTraveler4 жыл бұрын
Rui Brito thanks!
@filipeteixeira67074 жыл бұрын
So good this video! Really really interesting and informative ! I have a Kona Splice and I intend to start touring with it this year as soon as the lockdown ends