EQUIPMENT

Reliable Equipment lets you sleep better...

Bicycle:

I have assembled a bicycle customized to my requirements. It consists of a Cannondale frame, SRAM components (Drive train, braking system),Syncros Bottom Bracket and Tubus racks. Other important items are: Rigida wheel rims, Wheelsmith spokes,Phil Wood hubs, Brooks saddle. Plastic removable fenders keep some of the rain away. In terms of tires , I have used Michelin, Avocet (both not durable) , Continental and recently got excellent results with Schwalbe Marathons.

Cycling accessories:

A Cateye Cordless 2 Cycle computer has been reliable in recording my speed, distance, etc, working without interference and being very sturdy and weatherproof. A Casio altimeter watch serves to gauge vertical progress.

To inflate tires I use a Blackburn AS-1 mini pump. A Bomber Cage allows me to carry more water than conventional cage and bottle.

My toolkit is quite complete with spares and tools to overhaul or repair my bicycle in most cases (barring major accidents or equipment failure)My main tool is a KoolTool

Cycle Wear:

Over the years I have tried many kinds of cycling shorts, jerseys, rainwear from brands such as Pearl Izumi, Vigorelli, Nike, etc. For rainwear I am now using Mont Cycling Rain Jacket and Pants. They are waterproof, visible and are well designed and made with Gore-Tex fabric. So far the best material and make I have worn.

My head is protected by a Bell Avalanche Pro, It is very airy and light, making it bearable even in the tropics. After my Bali accident, I never leave without putting it on..

Luggage:

My Bike Packer Classic bicycle panniers (luggage) are made by Ortlieb. They are very well designed and are made with the finest materials and workmanship. They are the reference standard for waterproof cycling bags. Their design has well though features that combine security, reliability, ease of handling and good gear organization as well as the expected protection from the elements while preserving low weight and durability. I also carry an Ultimate front bag to keep my essentials as well as photo/video equipment and it has a waterproof but transparent pocket on top for a route map.

In addition , I carry a Karrimor Condor 65L soft backpack on top and across the rear rack. It is useful when I want to do off-bike journeys as well as giving me secure stowage for items that cannot fit in panniers (Tent, sleeping bag, etc)

Camping:

A Sierra Designs Sphinx2 tent provides temporary shelter from the elements. I sleep inside a Thermanest Synthetic Sleeping bag. For cushioning and insulation I use a Thermarest Lite pad underneath. I can also use the pad as a chair with the ThermaRestR chair kit. All these Therm products come from Cascade Designs

I cook with a MSR Whisperlight International stove, using cooking equipment from Outback Oven. I take a Pur Scout to treat my water and an MSR Dromedary 10 L bag to carry it (in addition to assorted water bottles) and sometimes use it for showering.

For lighting during the few night riding occasions and while setting up camp I use a waterproof headlamp. It's advantage is that it points the light where I'm looking while riding and gives me free hands when at camp.I also carry a miniature candle lamp for reading inside the tent.