Well, I'm about a month out from my ride, so it's time to start tricking out my bike for the real deal. Today I bought a handlebar bag that will provide easier access to my cell phone and camera. It comes with a shoulder strap so it's easy to take with me at stops...like a Coach purse with reflector strips. :) I also went to Genesis Bikes and investigated new, hardshell tires that will be better for the rougher trails I expect. They are puncture resistant, and a bit wider. I'll get them mounted at the bike shop Monday night, along with my rear rack from an older bike. And my bike shop friend is going to bring me his panniers so I can start to ride with them, planning what to pack and over the next several weeks, adding weight to them and getting accustomed to riding with All The Stuff.
I did not add that bike bell pictured to the left, nor any bike bell... but I did consider getting one. It's tiring to always yell out 'on your left' to people I want to pass. A bell seems more gentile. I found I was startling people if I got too close before calling out, so I began calling out from further back. They still startled. The other day, a couple was taking up most of the trail, but as they were predominantly to the left side of the trail, I yelled out, "on your right!" instead. They jumped and moved right! I have to get to the camping store for the bear bell. If it works on bears, maybe it'
I did not add that bike bell pictured to the left, nor any bike bell... but I did consider getting one. It's tiring to always yell out 'on your left' to people I want to pass. A bell seems more gentile. I found I was startling people if I got too close before calling out, so I began calling out from further back. They still startled. The other day, a couple was taking up most of the trail, but as they were predominantly to the left side of the trail, I yelled out, "on your right!" instead. They jumped and moved right! I have to get to the camping store for the bear bell. If it works on bears, maybe it'
While I've been doing most of my hot summer rides with my Camelbak, I may not necessarily take it with me on the trip. I think September will be cooler and I will not need to carry as much water. I'd just take two larger bottles on the frame if I did this. Still to be determined. Since I'll be expecting cooler mornings, I also bought a couple lightweight, but long sleeve workout shirts today too. I made sure these also flap in the wind. :)