Bikes
 Matthew used a "Ribble" aluminium frame with Carbon Fibre Forks, Shimano (9 speed) Tiagra Groupset. As there is very little clearance for a rear mudguard, a rear pannier rack was fitted and a mudguard attached to the underside of the rack. Gearing consisted of a triple Chainset (30-42-52) with a 12-25 block.
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Keith used a "Surosa" (Oldham Cycles) aluminium frame with Steel Forks, Shimano (7 speed) Groupset with a 14-28 Block and a Stronglight 36-48 Chainset. This frame has enough clearance to fit mudguards directly to it.
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Luggage As our accomodation was a mixture of Youth Hostels and B&B's and we had to carry everything ourselves; we took the minimum possible with us. We both used identical Karrimor Universal (30 litre) Panniers fitted on the rear, with a bag also fitted on top of the rear rack. Keith also used a "Vaude" Handlebar bag with a Map Case. Spares The following spares were carried between us:- Alien Multi-Tool - Block Remover - Folding Tyre - Rear Gear Cable - Inner Tubes (5) - Insulating Tape - Pair of Brake Blocks - Puncture Repair Outfit - Rear Brake Cable - Pair "Look" Shoe Plates - Tie Wraps - Spokes. Clothing We each took the following:- Arm Warmers (never used) - Cotton Cap - Cycling Mitts (2 pairs) - Cycling Shoes - Bib Shorts (3 pairs) - Hand Towel - Cycling Helmet - Leg Warmers (never used) - Tracksuit Top - Short Sleeved Jersey (2) - Socks (3 pairs) - Pair of Trainers - Leisure Shorts - T-Shirts (3) - Waterproof Jacket - Waterproof Over-Shoes - Windproof Jacket - Thermal Vest (2nd. week). Various We also took with us:- Camera - Cycle Locks (2) - First Aid Kit - Maps - Mobile Phone - Wash Bags - Sun Glasses - Sun Tan Oil - Midge Repellant (2nd Week). |