How to Pack for a Bicycle Tour - My Complete Gear List

[@willnelson3362]

Very useful video, thank you! My son and I rode from Paris to Cinque Terre, Italy last summer. It was nothing short of a *life-changing* experience. I feel a little silly telling everyone about it, like I'm a religious zealot or something, but it really was! We only did hotels/airbnb's. Next time, we'll camp some days and bring camera gear. I'll be referring back to this video. FYI, I would have paid $5 just to watch and refer to the list. I don't think there's a huge audience, but there's no doubt, your knowledge is very useful to some of us. Perhaps consider bike reviews too. We encountered plenty of climbs (most days) and I'd like to get an easier climbing bike next time with a lower gear ratio, but I think there might be a lot more to it than that. Thanks again!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you so much! That sounds like a great ride, a hard ride. there is a lot of steep climbing in between those two points. I installed a smaller chain ring on my bike for climbing and never regretted it.

[@eisvogel8099]

It's obviously about the journey not a race. All I hear the minimalists on their gravel bikes with their lightweight gear talking about is the distance and the speed. Going slow, enjoying more! Great video, thank you guys. Happy trails

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Everybody rides their own ride. I ride mostly for the places it can take me, so it makes sense to slow down and enjoy. Such a great way to see the world!

[@garyseckel295]

Interesting product details. Looking for your next bicycle tour videos! So many beautiful videos already (HUGE bicycle travel collection). Your tours are SOLELY about the scenery and related historic details, and are not at all ego trips! Thank you, Roland and Julianna, for taking us with you!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks Gary, I'm looking forward to those as well!

[@pbrown239]

Thanks for the gear list video, it isn't far off from my set up, minus the video production equipment. My wife enjoys your soothing voice and your descriptive adventures may nudge her to join me on a mellow tour, thanks.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you and you're welcome! I hope she joins you, it is an absolute blessing to have your honey along for the ride. Makes it all so much sweeter!

[@dooley-ch]

Thanks Roland. I don't take the laptop, but I do take a cheap android tablet with keyboard and mouse. It has an SD card reader and charges easily of a power pack. It is not great, but it allows me to copy SD cards, view movies etc.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

That's probably a better solution! I should check my storage capacity on my iPad. When we did France I had so many GB of data that I needed an external hard drive along with the computer just to keep up!

[@Roboprogs]

Also, leave the dedicated power supply for the MacBook at home. When we travel (not biking, but packing things through the airport also makes you pare things down), I have one of those cords with multiple USB jacks, but it has an extra oval “C” jack as well as the rectangular “A” jacks. It fits the cord that goes between the charger brick and the laptop. It won’t charge the laptop as fast, but it certainly will after a few hours.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Good to know!

[@Riekkoff]

Hi Roland ! Thanks for reaching out. Laurel and I both vacationed up the entire Michigan coast and loved it tremendously. I think you and the family will too. We did not do any biking at all. We did see a couple of trails that looked promising. One trail (Little Traverse Wheelway) connects two of our favorite towns on the Michigan lake shore - Charlevoix and Petoskey. Two towns you are already planning to visit. The trail goes along the lake shore and has some stunning vistas - which we were able to see from the road. I don’t know which route you are planning on taking to get to Traverse City but our favorite town is Saugatuck - towards the bottom of the state. A nice stop if you are coming around the bottom of Lake Michigan. The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation trail looks like it could be interesting as well. We loved Sleeping Bear Dunes and also enjoyed the cozy town of Glen Arbor. Lots of delicious wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula ! One of our favorite things to do on our trip was to visit the lighthouses in each of the small towns along the coast. They are each unique and beautiful and fun to walk out to and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets. I hope I was helpful and if you have any other questions feel free to ask away. If you come through Milwaukee on your way and have time for lunch or dinner let me know. Laurel and I would love to catch up and hear about your adventures.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Yeah, very helpful, thanks Mike. We're flying into Traverse, heading up toward Mackinack (Mackinaw?) and then down to Saginaw for a family reunion. Then we'll follow whatever colors are left back to Traverse, hopefully up the coast. I'll put a pin in the map for all the places you mentioned. Would love to ride, but it may not be in the cards. The Wheelway sounds perfect.

[@AlanWJohnson]

Roland, first of all my wife and I truly love your videos, the scenery, and your excellent commentary during your rides. I must share a funny with you. I’m in my 60’s and did quite a bit of hiking, backpacking, and camping years ago. Last night as you were going through your camping gear, I made a comment to my wife how incredible today’s gear is as compared to what we used back in the day. Approximately 1 minute later you made the exact same statement. We both chuckled. Have a great one Sir.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Ha! Kids today couldn't even imagine what we had to deal with! Seriously, I think the big outdoor movement has a lot to do with the improvement in outdoor gear. It really does make it easy!

[@AlanWJohnson]

@@TheBicycleTourists I agree with you 100% on all points. Somehow in our day, it was almost a badge of honor to see how heavy we could make our pack. In addition, I wore a pair of heavy leather Vasque boots, which probably weighed seven or 8 pounds by themselves. Even the collapsible camp stoves today are miraculous. I had a collapsible one back in the day, but it was a large stainless steel wire frame, probably almost a foot in diameter and five or 6 inches tall. Keep up the excellent work with your videos and again my compliments. Not only do you do a great job, but you have exactly the voice and writing skills to make the commentary extremely interesting and informative.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you so much Alan. Very kind words! And thanks for watching!

[@AlanWJohnson]

@@TheBicycleTourists You’re very welcome.

[@alethearobinson8132]

Excellent video on your set up. Organization is critical for keeping the bike balanced and more stable to handle. Good advice about labeling the bags. FYI Ortleib makes a set of 3 packing cubes that fit their rear panniers. Rule of thumb is to have the weight 60% on the back and 40% on the front. Thank you for sharing. So much good information

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you Alethea!

[@cwskas]

Very thorough video. Thanks. What bike do you have? What saddle?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you! The bicycle is a Novarra Safari, an REI brand (since discontinued). The saddle? No idea...

[@Beingkindfeelsgood]

Thank you for video. I am about to head back out on my pilgrimage myself.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Pilgrimage! Love that! Where are you off to?

[@Beingkindfeelsgood]

@TheBicycleTourists It's a spiritual pilgrimage so I have no plans yet. The day I leave I will know because I place all my trust in my higher power and the Flow of the Tao. It didn't steer me wrong until I had to take shelter with friends during the summer heat. I have ideas of Lake Tahoe area first. I need time to rejuvenate my spirit amongst big trees and quiet my mind. When mind is at a peaceful state of clarity...the universe and I become one. When I enter the Flow, I no longer concern myself with any particular place I need to get to but that every place is where I should be. Every place is home. I don't know if you had ever entered the Flow of the universe... I have. I can tell you my experience when I met eye to eye with an adult mountain lion. I was guided by the Flow. I just turned my bike and walked across the canyon and pitch tent for the night. Next morning, I met with that same lion as he was taking a meditative stroll. A wolf said goodbye to me as I left that day. I had no fear for my life. They were kind hosts to allow me to stay. The Flow is like this. Works with nature in every way and never contends. I will be leaving in 2 weeks or so.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

that's what I love about bike touring - it does put you into a flow, where you accept everything that comes your way. A great way to live your life. Happy trails!

[@Beingkindfeelsgood]

@TheBicycleTourists may I introduce you to someone name, Kuan Yin (bodhisattva of infinite compassion). Kuan Yin saved my life many times. Let winter I was a couple miles up a desert mountain from Las Vegas. It was 1 am. Wind was 50 mph, slamming my tent. I held up the tent as long as I could but gave up. I called upon Kuan Yin for help. All the stakes were up and I had to anchor the stakes. Worried the needles from desert plants would pierce me from the high winds. As soon as I return to my tent the wind completely stopped. I check with friends and they said the wind went all the way through next day afternoon. I had no wind issues being 2 miles from them. This is what I mean by trusting in our higher power and ask for help. When there is sincerity there will be a response. So I hope you remember this name Kuan Yin if ever you find yourself in danger or need help. I think it's wonderful you and your wife do what you do. Please be well on your journey. May your heart be full with gladness and your mind be full in goodness.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

The world is full of beauty and miracles if you just reach for it.

[@dondonner1095]

I did pick up on some good tips here. I have not toured in a long time so this helps. Thanks and happy trails to you.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks Don. In terms of touring, any chance of picking it up again?

[@dondonner1095]

I ride everyday around 15 miles. I feel better when my hip is lubricated by doing so. I plan to do some longer rails to trails trips to ease back into it. So yes I intend too. would love to do France as you did but its complicated with two non cyclists who would want to tag along. Hopefully someday. @@TheBicycleTourists

[@neilpenny5475]

Thank you for a great video. The toiletries bag idea is genius. Also, I will be getting that bike mirror. The one I have is not cutting it.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

It took me 3/4 of the way across the US to find one that worked for me, but I love this one.

[@StanEby1]

Well done and constructive. Thanks.😊

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks Stan!

[@cyclistefroisse9267]

Bonsoir Roland, You must be a strong rider, that’s an impressive gear list. Tks for that. Laptop vs Tablet, Tubless tires + sealant vs tubes + patch kit, padded undies + regular shorts vs bibs are a matter of personal preference. About the later, AFAIK everywhere in continental Europe ( the UK is another conversation which we will NOT start) Lycra clad cyclists are a no brainer. You can go everywhere in your cycling gear without attracting oblique looks. Being immediately recognized as a cyclist, and a bicycle-tourist, even, has its advantages, you aren’t one out 80ish millions ordinary tourists in France per year, but a special one.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Yes, you're right, in Europe it's much more accepted and common to wear lycra. Strong rider? Hmmm. Probably more like we avoid hills!

[@cyclistefroisse9267]

Can’t avoid headwinds, though 😉. That in mind, considering the gear the two of you are hauling, these days-off were, indeed, well deserved. I beg to differ Roland, cyclists wearing cycling gear are totally accepted in continental Europe, just like hunters in olive/Camo gear (this is the beginning of the hunting season), Boaties in their Musto, Helly Hansen gear, wild mushrooms pickers in their hiking boots + wicker baskets... etc. To each outdoor “tribe” their uniform of sort, nobody raises an eyelid.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I think I'm agreeing with you on the acceptability of cycling gear in Europe. In the US you get some looks because so much of the country is so rural. I still prefer a less cycling style of kit but more out of personal preference. We're discussing these right now as we get offers from cycling gear companies to sponsor us. Maybe we'll shift in that direction. We'll see!

[@cyclistefroisse9267]

That’s a fantastic piece of news ! ( these offers). Good for you ! Gravel bikes are here to stay and rural America will get used to this new generation of young, fast riders in their so-called “Gravel Cargo bibs” ( with very convenient pockets which roadies chamois lack). I understand that there is a lot of innovation (textiles) in these Gravel clothes meant to be worn by riders who spend more time in their saddle than regular roadies, in all sorts of weather conditions. Finally, nothing prevents you from wearing your very stylish shirts on top of an Ultra (as in long distance) racer kit 😉

[@CityWalks]

Very comprehensive and very helpful. I've added several things to my list I wasn't thinking of. I especially appreciate your sharing your filming stuff. -H

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Awesome!

[@ricaube]

Don't forget your shaver! ;-) Thanks for the list and have a great trip!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Yep, on longer rides I definitely bring an electric shaver

[@steveanitalunde6142]

Very thorough. I was able to pick up some good tricks to be better prepared

[@TheBicycleTourists]

So glad this was useful!

[@macsmandy1]

Hi Roland! I have been following you and Julianna for a while now. We have pedaled much of the same ground in USA but mine 20 years ago without the niceties of the trail systems now in place. Currently just watched your first episode of Root River Trail. A comment on your sandwich. Never have been a fan of peanut butter and banana. Love banana. Love peanut butter, but no as duo. Since age of 5 or 6 my favorite is peanut butter with bread and butter pickle slices. Don't cringe until you try it. A little bulky to carry a jar of pickles on bike trip but I've done it on mine(maybe a vacuum pack). Pickles are also packed full of electrolytes so you are recharging on the spot, great for that hot weather you are experiencing! Regular and dill pickles just don't impart the same taste combo for me, but to each his own. Enjoying all your videos both USA and EU. We share the same inspiration when pedaling through farm country. Thanks to both of you, keep going. Mike

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks for watching! I'd like to think I'm brave enough to try a peanut butter and pickle sandwich. But you never know... I know that pickle juice is a tasty way to get rid of cramps in the legs.

[@bwbrady8372]

Oh the memories of hanging our laundry all over our bikes in hotel rooms. Good times!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Yep. I love the rituals of bike touring.

[@Rickyboy07]

HI Roland...just came across your channel. Just wanted to say THANK YOU! For the videos and the inspiration they give, and of course your first hand knowledge. I've been riding for the past 25 years, not including the biking I did in my 20s. I've just fully retied and looking forward to taking some bike trips. Thanks again!!!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I'm glad that you're getting some enjoyment out of these! I wasn't able to do much of this kind of riding until I retired. For me, I love the longer trips. Retirement has been a real blessing.

[@JohnDoe-sp5np]

Just a comment to support the video!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you!

[@mikedaugherty53]

Nice run down of your setup. Picked up some good ideas.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Glad you enjoyed

[@greghunt6183]

One thing that I didn't catch, Maybe I missed it, but you didn't really talk about food. Where do you pack it? What staples do you keep in your "pantry". Do you just stow it in that lunch box? Do you just stop everyday to resupply food? I typically use a frame bag in the triangle to stow my food, but then I struggle with where to put water. Just curious how you manage that.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I put food partly in the little cooler, but also wherever I can fit it to be honest. It depends so much on the day's ride that I don't really have an open space for it, some days we have a lot, some days not so much. Usually it just straps on to the front rack.

[@PumpkinVillage]

Very informative video. Amazing if you shop around you can find good products on the cheap. Do you pack a patch kit? Good luck on your upcoming trip. Take care, Al

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hello Al. Yes, I think I left off a patch kit and, of course, extra tubes. Even an extra tire on longer trips.

[@LarrysViews]

A lot of the same things I carry minus video stuff. My cockpit always has Halt (pepper spray) within reach. I've had a few problems with dogs & thankfully none with the 2 legged animals.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I've never had a problem with dogs, knock on wood. Across the US, Julianna carried pepper spray, first for bears, then for dogs.

[@jasonm4695]

Just found you. Great info and presentation... common sense, organized info. Really appreciate advice to weigh the bags for symmetry.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you! Getting ready to plan another trip. Every one is a bit different.

[@platesnpedals1543]

Very Nice Roland!! Thank you for your work putting this together so others can get ideas and benefit. I was wondering if you would be able to comment a little (or perhaps make a future video on) your action cam techniques (getting footage - do you immediately get out the GoPro and take or do you stop or have to go back to take interesting footage)? Also - looks like your footage is excellent quality - do you film in HD or 4K and then zoom/crop? What software do you like to use for putting together the various clips for the final videos and any brief tips on how you integrate the audio? It seems like if you are farther apart than easy talking distance from Julianna, the electronics will allow you to capture both audio sources (you and Julianna for recording), but you would not each be able to monitor the conversation as a cohesive conversation so that they each are not unique conversations going at he same time because of distance? Is there a way for you and Julianna each to also "monitor" the conversation if you are separated by distance (let's say 50m)? Sometimes there is audio built into helmets to talk back and forth but maybe this can be done another way??? Or perhaps you are not concerned about this if you are pretty close in most instances. Anyways - any information on how you handle the audio sources and then integrate into your beautiful videos would be great (do you use voiceover after the fact?). Also, your video shots are high quality and smooth - do you have any experience with this and any tips? Thanks for the all. Where is your next adventure?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hello and thank you! I'll try to tackle your questions one at a time. I never or seldom go back, with very few exceptions (I missed something that just needs to be shot) it's all on the fly. Most of this is HD but now I shoot 4K, I'll enlarge when appropriate. When we aren't moving I'm using iPhone. When we are talking its with one GoPro mic, no additional mics. I use a foam cover and sometimes an external mic with foam cover to cut wind noise. I work on the audio in post. We are close enough to hear each other. I am experimenting with a pair of lavalier mics but have not used it for two people yet. I do write and narrate anything that needs context or explanation, or just to keep interest. Audio is a bear. It takes a lot of time to create flow in the final edit. To create anything that's watchable takes many hours of editing and reediting, there are no real shortcuts. Camera moves have to be considered even while riding, smooth steady movement doesn't come natural. Of course, modern stabilization in cameras makes this kind of filming possible. Hoping to do Europe this summer.

[@dennispiciullo8060]

Thats great to know, I think you are pretty organized! Well, I'll see you in your next video I guess. Thanks for the info for packing on long bike trip.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks Dennis! Hope to start sharing some riding videos this fall

[@dennispiciullo8060]

@@TheBicycleTourists that's cool, I'll be waiting

[@MrSnakeboy1234]

Hi. Love all you videos and gives me a heads up on camera gear to take. One thing my father told me when travelling OS is to leave tablets in blister packs if you have your bag searched entering a county they can be identified. Can save a lot of explaining and time.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

That's a good though, although my meds come in big plastic jars, which would require a lot of space. I've wondered if I'll ever encounter any issues. Hopefully not!

[@417cycleguy]

I’m right there with you on everything you said in this video Thanks!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks for watching, cycleguy! Appreciate it!

[@belladrayven]

Hello friends, we are still watching & liking all your vids. We were in the process of moving and traveling, so we didn't have time to comment lately. Hope all is well with you both!! Any new traveling plans?! xx

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hi, thanks Bella. I did a solo bike tour in August and a short tour in Slovenia with my (grown) daughters in September. Will start producing new trips soon(ish).

[@michaelvikhman7926]

Great Video Roland. Can you post a link to that tripod selfie stick. That's exactly what I am looking for.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you! I'm sorry to say I cannot find the brand on that selfie stick, or a link in any of my past orders. There are quite a few KZbins out there comparing selfie stick/tripods, but in all honesty I haven't found one that I love more that my GoPro foam handle (no tripod), and I've tried a few. Good luck!

[@michaelvikhman7926]

@@TheBicycleTourists Thank for checking Roland. I will poke around the interwebs see what I can find. Also are you guys doing any tours in east coast mid-atlantic area?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

We are currently dealing with a couple of health issues, not serious but costing us valuable time, and we've cancelled our plans for a crossing of Europe in late summer. Once cleared, depending on th season we will probably try to do a ride somewhere here in the US, probably in the east. Maybe GAP/C&O, Virginia rail trails, or something similar.

[@carmenraedelaney2795]

Hello again, Thanks for the informational video. Yes, camping gear is awesome these days with so many options. I am working on a plan for my first bike packing adventure. It was great to get a few tips from you. Happy Trails! Carmen from Fargo

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hey Carmen, love to hear that. May I ask where you're looking at going?

[@carmenraedelaney2795]

Hello, My daughter (33) and I (65) are considering a bike tour in the northwest corner of the US. I am very interested in cycling through some of the beautiful areas in that region, which is so different then the flatland of Fargo. I have done a supported tour across the USA, through a tour group. It was amazing but I am looking forward to the challenge of touring and camping. @@TheBicycleTourists

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I think the first video I posted on this channel was my daughter and I on a short tour of the San Juans. Such a beautiful spot! And how great that the two of you can adventure together! You've done well!

[@TerrapinCyclist]

Thanks Roland, really appreciate the info.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you John!

[@karenpaulson]

I've been looking around on your videos to see if you talk about the bikes themselves. I'm interested to see what kind of bike you suggest for these trips.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I haven't gotten into the bicycles as I'm not much of an expert in this area. I ride a Novarra Safari, an out of circulation REI bike, Julianna was on a Salsa Journeyman, a gravel bike which she traded it in for a European touring model when in France. In general, for Pannier-style bike touring, look for a touring bike with a wider frame for stability. Surly Disc Trucker, Salsa Marrakesh, and the Kona Sutra are three popular choices these days.

[@maxdugan5319]

Great surprise! Excellent information as always! Appreciate the time it took to do this and give us new ideas to consider!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Always a pleasure Max! Hope all is well!

[@Riekkoff]

Thanks again for another well done informative video. I always have to leave room in my bags for my wife’s overflow since she always has the need to bring options for clothing. ; ) What is the brand and model of your drone ? I was impressed with its small size and would like to incorporate that into our rides. Also, where did you get your front Go Pro bag and who makes it ? Love that ! Finally, what is the brand of bike shipping bags you used to pack your bikes to travel on the plane to Europe ? Sorry for all the questions. Finally, next time you’re in Wisconsin look Laurel and myself up. We are VERY familiar with all the trails in the area and would love to be your hosts and share biking stories.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hey Mike, sorry for the slow response, on a tour with my daughters in Slovenia of all places (talk about beautiful!). Sorry, I don't have an answer for either the bike bag or my camera bag but wanted to get back to you. I will check out the camera bag in the morning and let you know. the drone is a DJI Mini 3. really an amazing piece of machinery. I hope to take you up on the Wisconsin offer. I was hoping for more time, wanted to do the Elroy Sparta, 400 Trail, La Crosse Trail, etc. but ran out of time. had to be content with a ride down the Mississippi which was really nice. Where in Wisconsin are you?

[@Riekkoff]

I have heard fantastic things about Slovenia ! I can't wait to see your adventures. Thank you for the information - I will be looking into all the items you note. Laurel and I live in suburban Milwaukee (Waukesha) and are VERY familiar with all the trails in the SE WI / NE IL area - of which there are numerous wonderful and scenic day trip options. We have spare rooms and live within a mile of a major local biking thoroughfare. We've done many of the Wisconsin trails and the Elroy Sparta many times - including on our next year's group week-long biking itinerary - which includes the Root River Trail (MN), Raccoon River Trail (IA), High Trestle Trail (IA), Great River Trail (IL), and the Riverfront / Duck Creek Trails (IA). If you haven't done any of those they are really special and highly recommended. I still have to post some of the rides Laurel and I did on our New England trip this summer in FB - not to mention the O2E ride our group just finished. Our "Group" started out being myself doing the GAPCO years ago where I met my retired friend from Ohio. Since then the group has grown to include my brother, sister, cousin, wife, and spin instructor - along with my Ohio friend. Be safe Roland. Thanks Again !

[@TheBicycleTourists]

So the handlebar bag is made by Oveja Negra Adventure Cycling Gear. Found it in my LBS. Those all sound like great trails, some I’ve done, others which I do hope to ride. You’re lucky to have a good group (and partner) to share these rides with. Slovenia is amazing!

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Oveja Negra is the brand of that handlebar bag. You are lucky to have a group (and partner) to share these rides with. I’ve done some you’ve mentioned, others I would love to do. It’s a great part of the country for that kind of riding. Slovenia is amazing (so far), like Switzerland without the pretense and expense, and definitely more old world in a very good way. We’re loving it!

[@Riekkoff]

@@TheBicycleTourists Thank you so much for the information !!! I can’t wait to see your Slovenian adventures. Everyone in our group loves your videos - so well done and enjoyable. Thank you again Roland !!!

[@fionahunt8530]

Hi Roland. Great video thanks. I'm interested in the handlebar pouch bag that you have (you put your hand held camera in it). Can you tell me brand and model please (the bag, not the camera!)

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thank you! The handlebar bag is made by Oveja Negra Adventure Cycling Gear. Found it in my LBS.

[@fionahunt8530]

@@TheBicycleTourists That's great, thanks.

[@Joiedevivredesilives]

I use the Osmo pocket 2 creator combo simple one handed operation and a gimbal built in

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Yes, I'm going to look into that next time I need a camera. I'm very impressed with DJI products.

[@Joiedevivredesilives]

@@TheBicycleTourists definitely i would wait for the new 3 whenever it comes out

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I'll keep a look out!

[@tappindoglover9646]

Thanks for the vid! How do you lock up your panniers, etc when you head inside?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Usually Julianna and I travel together so we take turns going into the store. I have a kevlar lock that I strap tightly. Or keep the bikes by a window we can view. It depends. Sometimes we walk the bikes in with us. We've strolled the aisles of grocery stores with our fully loaded bikes.

[@HDdyna2008]

Hey Hey do you have a video that shows what gear you use as far as brand that you have found that works for you guys?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Haven't done anything that promotes brands. I'm certainly not a brand expert, and don't really want to get into paid endorsements.

[@williamlee7262]

Thanks for the tips, I was wondering what you have on your bike. I watched all your videos, but I didn't know about Julianna getting busted (lol). I'll be looking forward to your next solo biking tour.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Hey William! Oh, yeah, Julianna is always getting us into trouble!

[@sjvista]

I'm so sorry to ask, but can you help me for my buterfly bars as you show. What, specifically, is that cross bar that yuo show? whould you link that please?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I don't remember the brand and there are several options but Google ROCKBROS Bike Handlebar Extender and you should find what you're looking for.

[@HackHunter1835]

Roland, when can we expect footage of your Wisconsin tour? The German police need to realize we like to be SEEN while riding our bikes. "Distracting" lol

[@cyclistefroisse9267]

German Police (incidentally, no such thing as German Police, Germany is a Federation, very much like the US, you have as many polices that you have Landers + Federal Forces) is well aware of cyclists visibility issues since STvZO which stands for Straßenverkehrs-Zulassungs-Ordnung regulates, long story short, road worthiness of all vehicles, 🚲 included. If german police officers had wanted to make a nuisance of themselves, they could have insisted on R&J bicycle lights ( Front and Rear) to be swapped for STvZO compliant lights. For the record, STvZO Regs see that cyclists are seen WITHOUT blinding other road users ( see front lights with High beam/Low beam cut off).

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Makes sense. Luckily we didn't run into any serious enforcemement on that!

[@MarkGlenesk]

Maybe I missed it.....Did you reveal your total gear weight? I will guess 48 including pannies themselves.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I didn't weigh this setup. You're probably close. On our last two-month tour my whole loaded rig was close to 100 lbs. You can certainly travel a lot lighter!

[@annettehansen6329]

What no bear spray?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

When we rode through Montana, in Grizzly country, we carried bear spray.

[@klasjansson5814]

👍

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thanks Klas!

[@jasonm4695]

What about a lock?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

did I really not include a lock in there? My bad!

[@SB-hr5yr]

Have you considered a trailer?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I did early on, but opted for the pannier system. Seems 6 of one, half dozen of the other, just personal preference.

[@garyloosemore2690]

I'm not opposed to wearing cycling specific clothes for training or group rides because they're great for that. When it comes to touring, I wear real clothes because they're designed for living! You must eat out a lot on tour, not much room for food?

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Depends. When we camp we carry more food, but we refresh often so at any given point there isn't a lot we carry.

[@garyloosemore2690]

I enjoy following your travels and learning from your advice. Safe journeys and keep the rubber side down!@@TheBicycleTourists

[@TheBicycleTourists]

Thx!

[@mandyo9690]

One of everything is my clothing rule. Rather have a super-light bike.

[@TheBicycleTourists]

I admit my style is to ride heavier and have more stuff. Definitely a choice everyone has to make.