Crangard@... wrote:
> That's a loaded question. Disc brakes, second mirror, rack, panniers
> (Arkel ), front/ lighting system, spare tube & tire, hydration system
> (FastBack), etc.

I had a Greenspeed scorcher kevlar chopped right through the kevlar belt
on BRAG, while doing 40 - 50mph down a long hill. The fun part was I'd
left my spare regular scorcher in my overnight duffle so had to hitch in
and back just to get the spare. So, lesson learned, not only have a
spare, but have it along. (note this was the first flat for my GTR in
more than 5 years riding)

I have the Fastback 3.0 on my GTR, but hated using it for holding a
hydration bladder, too hard to refill. So, I demoted it to a tool bag,
and I got Camelbak Unbottles with insulated tubes, sewed delrin buckles
into them and can just clip and unclip them from the seat frame where
I've placed buckles on short pieces of webbing. Works well, easy to
refill. I put a platypus quick disconnect at the bottle for the hose so
I don't have to drag it out, and the hose has a shutoff as well. The 50,
70 or 100 all fit the same place so I can choose how much to carry.

I also have two fastback bottle holders under the seat on their own
straps. Drinks stay cool longer under the seat than out in the sun in
the front two bottle holders.

I use the Surly nice rack on my GTR, it's fully adjustable so fits well,
and is very heavy duty. It's also a wider rack so fits the Tailrider
better and keeps panniers well out from the wheels. I use Arkel RT60's
for longer trips, along with the Arkel Tailrider which pretty much stays
on permanently. For local I have Arkel's utility panniers or use a pair
of small front touring panniers I made back when I toured upright.


> Clips/bike shoes are a must. My foot came off of the pedal when I hit a
> bump. Then my foot touched the ground and I ran over my lower leg when
> the axle hit the rear of my leg.

I've had my spds unclip on rough roads a couple times, but so far
managed to avoid leg suck. I agree, clips are a must. I use the big
cage Shimano PD-M545 pedals with the multi direction cleats. The
platform keeps me from deforming the Shimano riding sandals.

> A fairing (Windwrap) is a nice option but not a must.

I have a fairing, but only use it to stay warmer in the winter. In the
summer I find it too warm.

Walt