David and Paul stopped by yesterday to pick up their touring bikes for this summer’s North American Tour. When David and Paul were in university they did some touring and now that they are both retired they are going to relive the magic.
David and Paul’s bike were designed to be ridden on a wide range of different surfaces. They will be starting their ride in Vancouver, following the Kettle Valley Rail Trail almost to the Alberta Border. From there they will duck down into the Glacier National Park (amazing amazing riding; if you ever get a chance to ride Going to the Sun Road, do so.). Following Glacier they will follow Highway 2 across the country. If you’ve never ridden (or driven) across Highway 2, i highly suggest it as i think it’s a bit of a hidden gem. You can visit the rolling hills of Montana, the geographical centre of North America and the birthplace of Paul Bunyan all on one road.
Paul took his bike home in Vancouver mode, ready to deal with the spring rain.
David decided to take his bike home in Monster Cross mode. He lives in an specific area north of Toronto which has what i believe to be the best gravel road riding around. His 45 wide Panaracer Fire Cross tires will be more then able to deal with the challenging terrain. Both bikes came with fenders, 35mm Schwalbe Marathons and the Panaracers. For the Kettle Valley rail trail they will use the knobby tires. Once they have completed that section of the trip they will switch to the fenders and smooth tires for the remainder for the trip.
The two bikes are built up much alike. Paul however decided to go with Phil Woods’ touring hubs and a flat bar set up.
Whereas David decided on drop bars and XT hubs.
Best of luck on what’s sure to be a great trip.