New Frontiers

Life's a lot easier with the correct equipment, you need it if you are serious about touring on a bicycle.

The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region of the shadow of death, light has dawned.
                                                          Mathew 4:16

Since leaving Blyth, CA I've enjoyed a refreshing swim in the Colorado river and many nights camping out under the stars in Western Arizona. I've met many new friends including a organized group of cyclists raising money for injured United States Marines. I caught up with them at the tail end of their annual ride in Wenden where they raised over $300,000!

Because of the severity of wheel problems that I've had including 11 broken spokes since my trip started, I've come to the conclusion that my 28 hole rims aren't the right wheels for me to tour with. I'm sick of tightening loose spokes, truing rims and struggling  with my stock wheels. Therefore; I've ordered a set of Velocity rims (40 hole), Phil Wood hubs and 14 gauge spokes to be laced in a 4 cross pattern. These recommendations came with advise from Rincon Bike Shop owner, Dennis in Carpenteria, CA. I met Dennis a few years ago when I toured the California coast. Our physiques are similar, and he has more touring experience with heavy loads. Therefore; I heed his recommendations more than anyone else's regarding touring. He is a tandem specialist and was very adamant about me inquiring with him before purchasing more equipment. Eliseo At Slippery Pig  Bike Shop in Phoenix also helped me make some decisions about my touring wheel investment..

I finally made it to Mesa, AZ despite my wheel problems and have  been enjoying time with my niece Renee and her husband Mathew (Buddy). They have been very patient and hospitable with me as I wait for the arrival of my rims. They are coming from Florida, hopefully they will arrive today. Everything else has arrived.  I invested in a new Brooks saddle yesterday. Apparently they have a 800 mile break in period, then after that, they are very comfortable. I've heard nothing but good reviews about them. Additionally, I'm considering investing in some touring handlebars and a front end stabilizer (so my steering will be smoother). It's nice to be in the Phoenix area where there are people with resources to assist my biking adventures.