Retrobike Touring.

[hamster]

Some adaptions done, it’s not pretty!
Trying an adjustable stem that I forgot I had, riser bars , straight seat post, new saddle and rack. Now I need to get out and see if the back pain benefits outweigh the style negatives haha. Will have bar ends but I’m not putting those esi grips back on until I’m certain

Functional has its own beauty.
I'm sick of catalogue projects with slammed stems. It all just becomes a bike cleaning competition.

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Functional has its own beauty.
I'm sick of catalogue projects with slammed stems. It all just becomes a bike cleaning competition.

So true. I'm not a garage queen lover. It's a bike, ride it. That said if it makes you happy all good

 

[Stanflashm4n]

These are the wheels I’ve currently got on the bike, think they came from a 95 Marin. Assuming the rims aren’t worn (which I need to check…metal ruler on the rim surface?) do you think they are up to the job? Going to be carrying a fair bit of weight , mainly me, but also 2 panniers etc. don’t want them imploding half way!

 

[hamster]

No sign of cracking round the spoke holes, which is usually the way Mavics fail - should be fine.

I rode the US Pacific Coast with camping gear on Mavic 231s and 32H hubs. The rear gave out some years later when the sidewall cracked from wearing thin. I've run 231 ever since, although nowadays with a 36 on the rear.

 

[minor_LEGEND]

Wheels should be fine, it's the spokes & tension that are most important; ie the 'build' quality.
It's quite amusing that since touring has become in vogue with the hipster bunch, touring can now be done on carbon race bikes, with carbon wheels with only 14 spokes & you don't needs racks or carriers with panniers, but just an oversized saddlebag & a frame pack. Genius!

An old MTB with generous chainstay length is ideal.

 

[highlandsflyer]

Your rims look fine. You've chosen a sensible distance for a week. Not too much strain on your steed, or yourself. If you forget anything let me know. Ideas on your route?

 

[hamster]

It's quite amusing that since touring has become in vogue with the hipster bunch, touring can now be done on carbon race bikes, with carbon wheels with only 14 spokes & you don't needs racks or carriers with panniers, but just an oversized saddlebag & a frame pack. Genius!

They also say the big advantage to all those frame packs is that they are more aero.

I think it's missing the point somewhat, as the point of touring is taking your time and enjoying the journey.
Clearly some people's idea of fun is joyless maximisation of miles.

 

[Stanflashm4n]

Your rims look fine. You've chosen a sensible distance for a week. Not too much strain on your steed, or yourself. If you forget anything let me know. Ideas on your route?

Very kind, thanks! Route 78 the Caledonia way I think. I can’t pretend I have done much research - very much tagging along haha. I know we begin alongside Loch Ness, Im looking forward to it!
This is how the bike is looking now , not sure about this adjustable stem, seems to be some play in it. I’ve got a quill / ahead adapter thing coming so that should give me a few more options…

 

[Tootyred]

Credit card touring for me all the way.

However to feel like I've had an adventure, I slum it in 4 star hotels and only drink house champagne.

 

[bikeworkshop]

not sure about this adjustable stem, seems to be some play in it.

Don't be unsure about it.
Replace it before you go.

Once it starts to wobble, it will wear quite fast until it becomes dangerous.

Although at least it might have stopped creaking by then