Empowering The Bicycle Traveler

Touring Bike Components

Tire Sizes – Actual vs. Nominal

I had a question from a customer about actual widths for some models of the Schwalbe Marathon tires we carry. He is concerned about getting tires that will fit without rubbing on his fenders. I figure others probably have the same questions, so I have compiled a chart showing the actual measurements of some of Read More

4 Handlebars

Wherein the  bike hermit compares and contrasts 4 different drop style handlebars for the touring bike. Finding the perfect handlebar for his touring bike has him in a bit of a bother. Last season I installed the Nitto Dirt Drop bars on Chief. I like the way the drops flair out. The bars actually have Read More

Pedals- Power Grips

On my everyday bike I have been using a Power Grips Pedal Kit. These pedals use a unique diagonal strap to hold the rider's foot more or less in a stable position. A metal bracket screws into the holes on the front face plate of the pedal and secures one end of the strap. The Read More

Gilles Berthoud Saddles

I now have over 3000 miles on my Gilles Berthoud Aspin touring saddle, so I guess I feel OK about sharing my impressions. (the pun will become apparent later) The Gilles Berthoud Company is located in Pont de Vaux, France. The products they produce are well thought out and elegant and, as far as I Read More

Bicycle Touring Tires

This is literally where the rubber meets the road. It’s sort of a boring topic but tire problems could end a bicycle tour quicker than almost anything I can think of. And a flat tire is probably the most likely mechanical repair a traveling bicycler will need to master. Luckily, there are many very good Read More