Recommended by an experienced bicycle tourist
-
Sale!
I bought one of these to protect myself from dogs and bad drivers. Having tested it in Georgia and Azerbaijan I can safely say it works for both. Many savage dogs were stunned by its loudness and many wayward cars got to know I was there. Really loud! Get one! -
I've used this rack on all my bicycle tours and highly recommend it. It's really robust and can take a lot of punishment. It's really simple to fix your panniers to it quickly. There is a standard and disc brake fitting so make sure you choose the right one. -
These are very well made panniers and are great for keeping everything dry. There's plenty of room in them and they have a separate compartment each. They are easy to fit to your bike rack and easy to carry around using a strap. I suggest a lashing strap which can be used for other things. -
This is the saddle I have used for all my tours and I can safely report that I have never had any saddle soreness! The Brooks B17 is the stand out choice for a saddle that is well made and comfortable. Make sure you run it in first, to make sure it fits your bottom comfortably, before you go touring. Once run in just follow the care and maintenance instructions and it will last a long time. The version I have is the B17 Special but a cheaper Standard version is available for under £100 which delivers the same performance without the high level aesthetic. -
I like to have a variety of positions for my hands for comfort when bicycle touring. I bought these butterfly handlebars and have toured with them ever since. I do tend to have preferred position but it's relief to be able to change it from time to time. Recommended for comfortable arms while cycling. -
Sale!
I always use a CatEye Velo cycling computer when on tour or for everyday use. There are may more sophisticated trip trackers out there including iPhone and Android apps but you can't beat a simple cycling computer to deliver the headline ride stats quickly. The only time I've had any trouble from one is once during torrential rain when the rain penetrated the contacts. All together thoroughly recommended and pretty cheap too! -
I bought a pair of these to replace my Shimano cycling shoes. I was looking for a trainer type shoe which could take cleats for SPD pedals but still be comfortable to walk in. I looked at the Shimano XM7 cycling shoes but in the end took a chance on a much cheaper cycling shoe. I wasn't disappointed at all with these. I did buy some gel insoles as well to make things more comfortable. Make sure you buy some cleats, they are easy to fit as well. -
I was recommended these bicycle tires as an alternative to Schwalbe Marathon for touring. I was looking for a tough tire for multiple terrains and a bit of puncture resistance. I have now used the same set for three tours now and have not had a puncture. They can take some pounding on broken roads and trails performing exceptionally well with no issues. These tires are a great investment and I thoroughly recommend them. RiBMo means "Ride your Bike More"! -
These are great for stowing essential items such as puncture repair kits, tools, emergency rations etc. since it's easy to access once you've dismounted you bike. I have various sizes – small for short journeys up to large for touring. They are fixed by straps so easy to fit to most saddles. Fits my Brooks B17 without issue. -
These are great jackets for what they do. They are nice and light, pack up small and keep the rain out when it's pouring down. The additional visibility with the reflective fabric really stands out so I feel safer in bad conditions. Keeps the wind off nicely too and I've recently been through some filthy weather with one of these on and kept reasonably dry! Worth it and highly recommended. -
Sale!
I've always used a mess tin for camping and this one is an age old design. I have an old army surplus mess tin from WW2 but these new ones will do the job. Main benefits are you can cook and eat from them and stow items inside them such as cutlery and a burner when carrying. A tried and tested design – just get one! -
A handy knife, fork and spoon set complete with can opener. There are lighter ones available but if you like more robust cutlery then this one's for you – it's still light since it's made for camping. I've had a set like this for years and swear by it.