gear for touring thoughts from a beginner

This journey for me relies on totally new equipment and mechanics compared to my trips on foot, and already I am learning some things that do work and some that I am learning with my new days of experience. 

1. Have stable weight in the front: 

I started my trip with the Blackburn Harness for  some added pounds to balance out my rear panniers and I have already dismounted the plastic system and packed it away. The plastic mounting apparatus was not holding up on the unpaved roads and because of my drop handlebars is could not hold the weight I needed to keep my front tire on the ground on some bumpy uphill rides. 

I recommend at least a front top rack that is more stable, and sturdy to hold weight. And lower centre of gravity! Many of the people we have passed so far have opted for front panniers and they seem super helpful with balance, but if you're going light, a front rack seems to do the trick. Keep those handlebars free of weight! 

2. Tires, tire, tired 

On day 2 I was furious at my puny tires and couldn't imagine how silly I was to embark with anything less than a 700x41 wheel. Yes, if someone gave we the option right now I would jump at the opportunity to have beefier tires, but ours are ultimately doing well. The key is the aggressive grip we have covering our 700x35s. We have seen other bikers with thicker set ups doing well, and some with 700x38 but no grip that are really struggling. We are learning our system and I think we will be fine because we are already going very lightweight. But, don't underestimate loose gravel and the energy it takes to start back up on an incline! We do not know any different than what we have, but 700x35 is on the small side for what we are seeing as experiencing. 

I'll keep posting more thoughts from a novice as they become more apparent! But ultimately, we feel very well set up gear wise and are just learning what styles are working for our skill. We are loving our steel frame bikes, with no shocks, and our narrow seats. Though not super cozy, they keep our bottoms from falling asleep after 40kms and for that we are grateful!