This video is such a breath of fresh air. I love this kind of bike mechanic philosophy. Not going for the latest stuff, but just using what works, what's abundant, what's serviceable. Additionally, focusing on budget is just so nice to see. I hate getting into a new hobby and having people tell me it's only for people who can afford it. This video is an absolute gem!
@Alien On a Bike Everything that has a beginning, has also an end, Neo. Her youth, our narcicism, and us treating money like a religion. They live in paradise - we watch.
There is huge cycling wisdom in this video. So nice to see and hear, when most young folk seem obsessed with "tech" must be "best thinking". The aim of cycling anywhere is to HAVE FUN, not to have pricey possessions!
I've been stuck at home for 4 months now and watching you travel is very therapeutic to me! Stay healthy and stay strong, looking forward to you guys getting on the road again!
In 1993 me and my girl friend bought new but cheap steel Marin mountain bikes. In 96 We up graded some worn components and had extra bosses for front rack and down tube bottle then a respray. New hand built wheels and in 97 we set off around the world on converted £250 mtbs. 3 years on the road and the only major issue was racks failing so we had new steel ones made in Nepal. We still have the bikes and there still usable. To be honest they've faired better than me. You don't need or want a flashy bike to tour or travel. This is a brilliant video
I love this. Building a bike with fancy, expensive parts is easy. You just write a big check. But being frugal takes a bit more creativity. I recently built a budget bike for riding in the rain and in the winter. It lacks the sophistication of my expensive stuff; but it works very well and is more durable. Good bikes do not have to be expensive.
So refreshing to see that you are making common sense recommendations based on durability, serviceability, availability, compatibility, and budget. Yeah, you can find a square taper BB practically anywhere; try doing that with a Hollowtech or whatever. May I share a story? My friend's grandfather was pretty big in the cycling scene in Chile (certainly this was the early days). He was on a long ride through Patagonia when he encountered a flat. Having no spare tube or patch kit, he was faced with a very long walk back to anywhere he could properly service his bike. But he came up with an idea. He cut a small hole in his tube and began stuffing dry grass, which he had rubbed into very small pieces, into the tube. Next he found a water source and put the water in the tube as well. He tied off the area so that it wouldn't bulge, and put it all back together. The water caused the dry grass to swell and fill out the tube/tire, and he was able to ride back with his clever fix! Moral of the story? Common sense and cleverness are the best tools to have along on a ride.... well, and good preparation! Thanks for sharing all three with us in spades. :)
Great video. I purchased 2 Steel bikes for my kids, just before lock down 1990s mtbs/hybrids. I fixed them up and they are great. Just showed them the video - "see! You can go around the world in these bikes if you want!!"
One thing that might be well worth the weight of carrying is a cassette spacer or three (of varying sizes). Then you can use any cassette you find that has less gears than what you normally use. They are usually aluminum, but they even make plastic ones which are probably a bit lighter. The shifter indexing has the same interval between the gears for 6, 7, & 8 speed. I can't recall if 9-speed is compatible, but even if it's not, it will work to get you to the next city or town with a supply of bicycle parts. ...actually, as I write this, I realize that you could use a cog off your bad cassette as a spacer for a new cassette with less gears. Use an appropriate width cog, or spacer from in-between your old cogs to act as a spacer. There's almost always a few individual cogs, although often times the larger ones are a single piece. I would recommend volunteering, or working part-time at a bikeshop for a period of time before starting a long tour. You can learn so much and ask an experienced mechanic for guidance as you work on bikes and think of potential failures and see many yourself. Plus + you might get cheaper parts and accessories if you are employed by a bicycle shop!!! The knowledge you can attain working in a shop is priceless. Okay, I feel like I'm rambling. Search "Sheldon Brown" and read and learn as much as you can from there. He wrote 'the bible' on bicycle maintenance. Unfortunately he has passed on...but his knowledge has been catalogued and is still being maintained. His website has THE BEST information I've ever found in one place regarding bicycle maintenance. Edit: One last thing. Every bolt (every part) needs grease or thread-lock! And bring some thread-locking product on your tour. For your wheel nipples you can use boiled linseed oil. It acts as a grease and a thread-locker. If I ever go on a long tour I would probably carry a small container holding about 1/2 ounce of boiled linseed oil to use on any threads I undo and retighten. Boiled linseed oil is also used as a metal preservative for shovels and axes, so I trust it. I LOVE YOU TWO!!! You're such lovely people. If you come to Texas I hope to meet you and ride with you. I will feed you and check your bikes for maintenance issues if you allow me to. You could even make a video of me describing what I check on a bicycle tourists bike. Headset, bottom bracket, hub, and pedal free-play is what I start with. Then checking all bolts for torque (by hand). Then derailleur limits. And finally spoke tension and wheel trueness. Sometimes it's difficult for the rider of the bicycle to recognize minor problems. Any shop I've ever worked at will give a tourist a free bike exam and do a quick adjustment for free. With luck and regular maintenance, that's all that is needed. And sometimes with luck a good mechanic will recognize a problem and be able to fix it before a failure. Any good shop in the U.S. will also troubleshoot problems and relay the information to another shop down the road so that you can have a part waiting for you when you arrive. No good shop wants you to have to postpone your tour and will happily trade loss of revenue for free word-of-mouth (or internet) advertising. And if you ever do have to wait for a part, the shop will probably be able to take care of tour accommodations (free camping or a bed sometimes) if you have to wait for a part that the mechanic doesn't want you to travel with before being replaced. The first bikeshop that I was employed at was on a very popular U.S. bike-touring route that didn't have another shop for 180 miles in any direction. We often had tourists spend a few days with us. One tourist never finished his trip and stayed at the shop for over a decade (by choice). ...rambling again...
Thank you for your comment and many good points! 🙌🏾 Great tip about volunteering in a bike shop, and sounds like you have been amazing support for many cyclists. Hope we can meet one day! ✌🏽
Nomad's Trails : If your trip bring you through Texas I would LOVE to meet you two. I would be honored to ride a few [hundred] miles with you as well. Your videos make me so happy. I binge-watched every one of them as soon as I discovered you online. Thanks for sharing your love of cycling with the world. Happy trails and much love my friends!!
6 speed freewheels are not spaced the same as 7 and 8 speed. If you use friction shifters, this is not a problem, but 7 and 8 speed shifters are not compatible with 6 speed. You're correct about 7&8.
The GT All Terra is a touring worthy frame for rougher roads. There are better touring specific frames but I see no reason to discourage using the GT here if that's what you have. You can even partially kit it out with bikepacking bags on the frame and front pannier racks on the fork. Also, Univega and Diamond Back bicycles from the late 80s and early 90s are also suitable for touring, but definitely follow this list and look for touring specific frames from the mentioned brands if they happen to be available. They will likely price in a little bit higher, but you get what you pay for. If you have shorter chainstays, the Tubus Logo Evo rear rack will help as it allows you to mount your pannier further back on the rack to clear those pedal strikes. Brass nipples and 36 steel spokes is recommended. Also recommend the Deore hubs. I also advise square taper bottom brackets as they are more durable and more compatible for replacement during tour. They can also be more serviceable and you might already have an unsealed bearing setup that only needs a cleanout, new bearings and grease to be ready for your next tour. There's other brands of rim you can go with including the Sun Ringle Rhyno Lite rims. Anything double walled, and preferably something that has eyelets for stress relief should serve you. And definitely if you build your own wheels, learn to use a wheel gauge to even out the stress on the spokes. This will keep the wheel true longer, and make it less prone to breaking if you take the time to dial it in. Replacing spokes on the road is a downtime you may want to avoid. If you run an internal gear hub then I suggest Spa Cycles in the UK for their chainrings and chainguards as they are a touring based bike shop that has extremely affordable touring parts. Sometimes having that chain/bash guard to keep the chain from falling off the big ring on a 2x or even 3x front crankset will be a huge relief if your drivetrain starts getting a little unruly in between servicing. A dynamo hub is a nice luxury if you need power generation as you go. As most people take phones and map devices, it's handy to keep them charging throughout the day, especially when cycling through wild places or out of civilization for a few days. Definitely optional, but if you're about to build a wheel set it's worth thinking about if that's something you need before you buy spokes and build something up. MTB Frames are better off being front loaded at a 60/40 distribution, so keep that in mind as you build yours up. As the thumbnail picture suggests, a Surly front rack is a supremely versatile rack rated to 77lbs of gear. That said those racks will require pipe clamp adapter kits to mount to forks without the required mounting positions. You can instead replace your bicycle's front fork with a Surly Troll fork for native support and support for a wide variety of mounting options including cargo cage mounting (mounting smaller bags on the fork blades). In doing so, you may be converting from a threaded steerer to threadless, which allows for more modern stem options as well as an opportunity to decide a higher stem height before you cut the steerer tube down. You can mix and match, such as running lowrider pannier racks in combination with a handlebar mounted bag on the Surly Troll fork, or just get the Surly rack with the fork and enjoy that broad top platform and pannier support on the sides. Better quality front racks will include mounting points for dynamo lighting, and you can also internally route your lighting with a Troll fork up into something like a headset USB charger (this is all just luxury but if you start with an affordable frame these niceties might be in your budget!). This fork is beefy and up to the task. Thumb shifters or friction shifters that can convert to index are simply more reliable, period. If your bike comes with bar end grips, you can put silicone sealed foam grips on those to give your hands a cushy relief. Long rides in the saddle can fatigue your hands, as will having an aggressive bent posture, so the ability to change positions is vital. I like butterfly handlebars. I like them even better than most of the touring style bars like the Jones H bar, or the VO Crazy bar, or even the Surly Moloko bar. Butterfly bars also make it much easier to mount accessories out of the way, though you may have to be more creative with cable routing around the bars and stem in some situations depending on where you mount your shifters and brake levers. Wonderful video that was once again suggested to me and I felt inspired to share. Happy touring!
Hello you two - my huge compliments to your journey. I am now an avid follower and am in awe of your great spirit and devotion to the adventure. I cycled along the Iberian coastline this 2020 year - had a blast while discovering a passion and love for bike touring. COVID-19 had nothing on me !! What I did was pretty raw. With a 650€ budget I went to good old decathlon and purchased their budget Riverside Btwin bike (260€). From there, i equipped it with similar budget decathlon products - saddles, rack, lights, camping gear - not changing anything on the bike. It was scary but it worked. Nothing broke, I cycled on terrains no one should ever even following the hiking trail of Compostela de Santiago. I got to France on the expected date to start working on the vineyards. All this to say is that I know nothing about bikes and their components and am very grateful for decathlon cheap products. With you two in sight my project is to build a bike as you did. It would be fantastic ! My question is this : do you think that the Btwin riverside 500 bike - link here: ua-cam.com/video/xItgXLG4XxU/v-deo.html Labeled as a hybrid or gravel bike could be a frame you would recommend ? Again thanks for showing up and being an inspiration ! Greetings from South Africa - I’d be happy to host you ! @cam_acacia
Today i bought a 30 yr old steel mtb Giant Gsr400 and hope to turn it into a decent travelbike. Your video’s where the inspiration to start the project. Thanks !
This was already my plan to use a full sized mountain bike that folds and upgrade all the components. Folding for worldwide travel. Your previous video was very helpful for me and I wrote down all your components. But this video is even better. Thank you for your hard work at putting this together. Ride safe.
Probably the best and most honest video on bicycle components on UA-cam. Just great! I've been going with Shimano Altus, Acera or Alivio for years, riding a lot and have never had any issues. There are cheap non-friction shifters also from Sun-Race. I prefer 7-speed cassettes up to 34 teeth. They last longer than 9-speed, but they are hard to get with 34 teeth. 7-speed one can also get flywheels up to 34 teeth. For flywheel it's another hub. But: No worries, of course 8- and 9-speed are also existing. With a Shadow rear derailleur like for example the Shimano Altus it goes up to 36 teeth on a 9-speed cassette. Chain: The KMC 7-speed, not the very basic one, 9-speed Shimano XT = CN-HG93 or a KMC. I like the Shimano MT-300 crankset, which is a Hollowtech II one. 44/32/22 teeth, steel chainrings. Hollowtech II is stiffer than the squared one, but the bottom bracket must be from Hope or Chris King to be long-lasting and not having any issues. Shimano has many very great parts, but the Hollowtech II bottom brackets do not last very long. For squared Shimano bottom brackets I have made better experiences with the BB-UN26 than the 55. The best was the old XT 72, but they no longer produce it. Hubs: Shimano Acera are also not bad. V-Brakes: Shimano Alivio or Deore with cartridge brake pads are good. Everybody knows that Shimano XT is a good riding experience and has cult status for a relatively high price, but Shimano Altus is even better, because it works good and lasts long for a low price.
Thank you for explanation on how to build a touring bicycle that people can afford! Reusing older steel frames is awesome!! Also so many pragmatic componets. Love it!
I'm only a few minutes in, and already applauding the know-how. :D Your choices are so schewd and logical. Sheldon-Brown type wisdom here. This is great advice for commuter bicycles too.
Great video, so useful for many people! I started touring this way, really helps reduce the friction of going on a tour when your bike doesn't cost too much.
hi guys and greetings from Ireland and thanks for the advice as a 58 year old I would love to go touring I love bikes and cycling wishing you two all the best on your touring adventures James
power to the people and the dumpsters they dive in. my first encounter with true compadres in humble living. where thank you, thank you!! is the highest currency. peace and love to you and those you encounter.
I rebuild bicycles for a hobby.... usually fixing the abused Walmart models. .. I have one of these GTs and was debating how to rebuild it... this video inspired me. I'm not going all in with luggage mounts but can switch out some components.
And more, i really prefer the disc brakes because if I do get a broken spoke or slightly out of true the brakes still function great, but I would get a cable one not hydraulic, lower maintenance. Loved your kickstand idea, I did a similar thing while touring Africa in 1995, I used a Masai stick which was really strong 💪.
This is a excellent video, old mountain bikes are the perfect touting bikes, also make good gravel bikes. your component list is very comprehensive. very well thought out. thankyou
I was very pleased that your video popped up, especially as you encourage people to build their own bicycles and to learn how to maintain, service and repair the bicycle and it's component parts. Although I still have my 1989 Specialized Hard Rock I will be touring and camping using a tiny folding bicycle made by Brompton. That way I can benefit from multi modal travel, using trains, underground networks and buses, coaches and boats where applicable. On trains, underground networks and buses I can use my pass so travel is free and I will be bringing one of my Alpacka Raft Packrafts to take myself and the Brompton paddling. By building one's own bicycle you can have everything you prefer and be fully confident that you know exactly how your bicycle and it's components operate and are able to maintain and repair them without worrying about the quality or cost of having a stranger work on your bicycle. Subscribed.
Bromptons are interesting bikes for touring for sure, enables a different way of touring! On a long tour, tire and rim wear might become a problem tho 😅 Will be interesting to hear all the places you will go with such a versatile kit. Welcome to our channel! 🙌🏽
Brilliant work, I'm currently building a tour bike off a Gary Fisher Wahoo 26. It's a great project and very fulfilling to see it come together slowly over time.
Great video guys! Retro MTBs are the best budget tourers. This is full of great advice that isn't tainted by the marketing campaigns. The only thing I'd say is the headset suggestion. Although very cheap, those Ritchey Logic headsets suffer badly in wet weather as they have almost no weather sealing and do not last long! I'd recommend the Stronglight A9 headset. It's no Chris King, but a major step up from the Ritchey Logic. Although it is a 1" threaded headset, it uses cartridge bearings commonly found in 1 1/8" headsets. As a result, they need very little maintenance, replacement bearings are easy to source and offer great weather sealing if riding in poor conditions. A little more expensive, but worth it in my opinion. All your advice about choosing drive components and wheels and frame etc. Really well informed, put together and researched. I hope potential cycle tourists come cross this and are no longer intimidated at the price of high-end touring bikes and can put together a reliable inexpensive rig, just as your guide described. Great stuff!
@@NomadsTrails you both are doing great but I don't like one thing that is you both not wear a helmet for your saftey. Please do purchase a helmet and wear. 🖤😍
Wow what a refreshing terrific video, I spent my teens and twenties cycle camping all over the UK and Europe with the Cyclists Touring Club and its great to hear some good sensible advice about super strong utility machines from people that use them, I cant believe what expensive rubbish is for sale now, electronic gears, new fangled bottom brackets, all sorts of things that you will struggle to get replaced in many parts of the world loved your advice, you are my kind of cyclists and I will probably build a bike based on an old MTB now as I hadnt thought of doing it before....THANKS and happy travelling :-)
Salute to both of u ,so far I couldn't get any other videos , other than yours who could speak, with heart and soul like you.I feel that you have tried your level best to reduce the cost, without reducing strength. Inspite of having mother tongue Hindi,I felt your language as just like my mother tongue. Because you don't want that any one should suffer on the way,and every one should be benefitted by your hard earned experience of last 10years.
Thank goodness your back.. miss you guys! Thanks for sharing a good tip. keep safe guys as always, looking forward for more vlogs. All the love from Philippines.🥰
Yep! You give me the spark to reignite my passion for bicycle.i am nearly to finish built my Hercules squadra bicycle steel frame and 26inch wheels, just need 1pair of tyres chambers, front brake pads and brakes cables or wires.Then the bicycle will be ready for trip.Your video is both inspirationaly and motivationaly mean mental issues Which can be useful in difficult situations. I don't like easy life know as"comfort zone " let difficulty be my teacher in this merciless world and face the toughest times like a warrior. Good trip and thank you for your video, God bless you both!
While I was searching for Cycle touring Channel....I found you... And all your videos are looks very naturally ......Loved Your Videos...Still waiting more Videos......Love From INDIA...
Another option is to get a 90s steel mountain bike with a 1 1/8 fork (often hard tails) and replace it with a rigid Surly troll fork. I've done that with a 96 Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo. I then added a Jones bar.
€850 sounds like a lot but it's the sheer number of components you have to have in order to make a fully functioning bicycle that pushes the cost up. I really appreciate the knowledge that's gone into this video.
I'll repeat what many say below: thanks for all the work put into this video and for the recycling/smart/but also quality/durability balance. It's hard to get away from the world of just buying when broke. I've salvaged 4 bikes from my building's bike area which were basically left behind by people moving out (they were moslty dirty and had flat and other minor mech problems). Learning bike mechanics by working on those mostly and with videos and groups online. Though I am daunted by the amount of knowledge to gain , the riding makes it worth it. I hope you can get back to the trail soon!
Thanks Peter! yes indeed so many good bikes with many good components are thrown a way in some part of the world. you can so much by fixing and building bikes indeed, it is fun way of learning bike mechanics!🙌🏽
I used one of those bikes up good ones like the green gt all terras are quickly disappearing. Good bike. I gave it to my friend. Still ran great. You know your stuff. Bri
Like very much the very detailed technical advice. Even if I wouldn’t do what you suggest, it is very interesting to watch. Have a suggestion you might find interesting: on my single speed touring bike I built up wheels on Sturmey Archer drum brake hubs. Completely weatherproof, very good cartridge bearings, and not expensive. Bulletproof. No need to adjust or to service. Roll really really well.
Nice to hear from you again! All this technical bike stuff went over my head. But very useful for someone who wants to build a durable bicycle. Stay safe and hope you can change scenery very soon❣️🤗
Very thorough, that’s a build from the bottom up. Personally I’d be willing to build tires. Crankset, and that’s all for me. But I like the fact he and she are naming parts and why. I do recommend to know your bike- your on it. Great video
Great video as always guys! a lot of information in here. My current expedition bike is also built from an old styled mtb frame, suspension was substituted by a nice steel rigid fork for simplicity. It's amazing the sense of freedom it gives, knowing that you can go everywhere with it, roads... mountains... trails...
Generally excellent advice. DT Swiss spokes definitely..spare no expense on the spokes...even on a budget touring bike! Pro tip - if you go with drop handlebars then take a look at Gevenalle shifters...I love them. Also as an alternative to the Schwalbe Marathon try Maxxis Overdrive Elite...very similar and also made of kevlar.
I've come to trust Schwalbe A LOT. Though, to be fair, if I wouldn't actually work as a bicycle mechanic, I'd take that advice more serious. Well, if there wasn't the problem that those tyres aren't available at all over here without importing them. Still, for everyone who has them available, and doesn't work in the field, that's solid advice to shave the budget a bit. Maybe I'll run into them on a tour, if so, I'll pick them up
Knowledgeable and very entertaining to watch. Excellent video, thank you! My first touring bike (also self-built) was a little more expensive but it stayed under 1000 €, which I thought was very good for the components I used (used, older models, cheap but good no-name components where applicable) Well done, keep it up!
I wasn't expecting this to be an actual budget bike, I thought it was gonna be one of those videos that call a $5000 bike a "budget bike" because it isn't a top tier $15000 bike. I hope to build my own touring bike some day "soon" and I appreciate the advice.
I would be tempted to go for the smallest crankset cogs you can get away with. You will likely need to drag up some long slow hills with a heavy bike on tour so try to fit a 22 tooth smalest front cog if you can.rather than a 26. Many cheap mountain bike cranksets have a 22 tooth smallest cog. I never worry about the size of the largest crankset cog as you wont be wanting to pedal at 40 mph downhill with heavy panniers etc. On tour the lower gears are more important than the higher ones
Wow thx! great tutorial for us that are thinking on doing such an adventure, and very thorough as well.........only thing is can't put a finger on whether watching this guy (sorry missed his name) makes me tired or dizzy 🤔
GREAT video! Thank you! I was looking at purchasing something to commute on, and instead of purchasing a new bike, I took my 1998 Gary Fisher mountain bike, swapped out the worn crank for an Alivio crank, installed a Wolf Tooth Components 34 tooth narrow-wide chainring, and coupled that to an 11-40 cassette with a Wolf Road Link and a Shimano 9-speed derailleur and shifter. I bought new 26" rim brake/disc brake wheels with Deore hubs for about $150 USD online. New V-brakes, which are very inexpensive, finished up the bike. I now have a decent bike with a simple 1x9 drivetrain. This is not a build for touring, but for running around a city, it's fine.
I have just bought used, but in great condition, retro MTB for 65 EUR based on this video :) and hopefully saved myself a ton of money compered to what I have previously envisioned that will have to spend. Have no intention to travel the world but I hope to do couple of ~800 km tours within my own country. Complete Deore Lx gear, 36 spokes 26" wheels - UKAI rims, chromoly frame with strong rear rack for panniers already mounted on strong fat pins on the frame. Will buy only new 2.0 marathon tires as suggested ( cost more then a bicycle :) ). The two things are that there are no holes in the middle of the fork for the front rack and the small cog on the crankset is 26, not 22... Will try to think something out. Thank You Nomads!
Great video. Basing your build on a retro steel frame mountain bike is spot on. Just change a few things and for a few hundred bucks you have a great bike. Good tyres, new bearing, a quality bottom bracket and dont forget the toe clips.
Good video! Don't forget to mention you need the thin spanners for adjusting and servicing the hub. I would however go for something with sealed replaceable bearings.
Thank you, a very good point 👍 We decide not to dive in to the required tools and spare parts in this video because video would be too long and a bit off the main subject 😊
Hi, found your channel as researching on building on my own rig for north India to start with by early 2021... a really good reference video to start with... saw a few other videos and hats off riding through moroccon desert...🤘✌
Totally agree with your paradigm. The early MTB's had frame geometries that closely match touring bikes: long wheel base and a medium upright posture. Many had all the rack and bottle bosses and, many had tapered, curved forks that help absorb road shock. I avoid those that have the cheaper-to-produce straight tube forks. One ride and you'll agree. Mine is an '89 Trek 830, a mi-range bike in that line up, but it still comes with forged drop outs, bombproof Shimano Deore group, (850 and 870 came with the DeoreXT) and BEST OF ALL: Shimano BioPace chainrings. This is the main featuire I look for in a MTB/Tourer. They absolutely LEVEL hills when loaded - or not. Other bikes have a similar non-round chainring system by Sakae. Just as good. Because of the inherent robust ness of these old bikes, I sold off my expensive touring models and keep on using these. Get yourself a nice Brooks saddle and figure out where you want the bars - and go.
Good job with explaining all the stuff and I totally agree on the old frames. Went Germany to Thailand on a 1989 Kuwahara Cheetah I build. You already mentioned most good brands...I would put the late 80s / early 90s bikes from Koga Miyata on the list aswell. If youre buying lucky a bike comes with some mint conditioned Ukai, Araya or Alesa rims which are very strong too and from my experience I can recommend some good old thumb shifters from shimano for cheap. Friction shifters rules! Keep pedaling :)
I miss your videos. Pls upload more videos. I understand because of COVID situation you have halted your travel but you guys can upload daily vlogs. Stay safe. Love from Bangladesh
Hello. I really enjoy your videos and your passion for your experiences. While watching and listening to your words, I heard some words that feel negative...BUT is a negative word. Try using HOWEVER, it gives a little more lift or hope to the conversation. Keep on rolling.
Thank you for the new content, glad you guys are doing good thru all this . Can't wait for more travels. Take care and safe travels, maybe by the time you guys hit the states I will have my setup ready.
happy to see anew vid was uploaded & u guys are still kicking strong! thanks for the advices, just got my marin muirwoods in march 2020. waiting for other parts (such as racks & bags) to built it for touring around malaysia... cheers & ride safe
I don't usually "like" videos because I don't appreciate the way it distorts my recommended videos. This video is so good though, I had to give it the thumbs up. This is all such great advice, so thorough, and you two have a magnetic presence on camera!
45 year pro bike mechanic here.
Your video and advice are spot on. A wealth of knowledge. 👍
Wow thanks, great to have your reassurance they know what they’re talking about!
Why not stepthrough frame bikes for long tour
@@gautam4697Stepthrough frame isn't as durable/strong AND lacks space for as much water or frame bag or both, air pump, click-stand storage, etc.
This video is such a breath of fresh air. I love this kind of bike mechanic philosophy. Not going for the latest stuff, but just using what works, what's abundant, what's serviceable.
Additionally, focusing on budget is just so nice to see. I hate getting into a new hobby and having people tell me it's only for people who can afford it. This video is an absolute gem!
It´s so nice to see that people emphasize a lower budget way in this world of shiny carbon and titanium ;-)
Thank you 😁 It doesn't need to be shiny or expensive to take you around the world 🚲 🌍
@@NomadsTrails Sooo true and have fun with your expeditions
But steel is still the strongest 💪
money can't buy what they got
@Alien On a Bike Everything that has a beginning, has also an end, Neo. Her youth, our narcicism, and us treating money like a religion. They live in paradise - we watch.
There is huge cycling wisdom in this video. So nice to see and hear, when most young folk seem obsessed with "tech" must be "best thinking". The aim of cycling anywhere is to HAVE FUN, not to have pricey possessions!
I've been stuck at home for 4 months now and watching you travel is very therapeutic to me! Stay healthy and stay strong, looking forward to you guys getting on the road again!
Thank you, happy to hear you are enjoying our videos!
Working in a shop in Vienna... 26 and rim brakes rule... this video is just too good! anytime welcome, if you cross by.
In 1993 me and my girl friend bought new but cheap steel Marin mountain bikes. In 96 We up graded some worn components and had extra bosses for front rack and down tube bottle then a respray. New hand built wheels and in 97 we set off around the world on converted £250 mtbs. 3 years on the road and the only major issue was racks failing so we had new steel ones made in Nepal. We still have the bikes and there still usable. To be honest they've faired better than me. You don't need or want a flashy bike to tour or travel. This is a brilliant video
I love this. Building a bike with fancy, expensive parts is easy. You just write a big check. But being frugal takes a bit more creativity.
I recently built a budget bike for riding in the rain and in the winter. It lacks the sophistication of my expensive stuff; but it works very well and is more durable. Good bikes do not have to be expensive.
So refreshing to see that you are making common sense recommendations based on durability, serviceability, availability, compatibility, and budget. Yeah, you can find a square taper BB practically anywhere; try doing that with a Hollowtech or whatever. May I share a story? My friend's grandfather was pretty big in the cycling scene in Chile (certainly this was the early days). He was on a long ride through Patagonia when he encountered a flat. Having no spare tube or patch kit, he was faced with a very long walk back to anywhere he could properly service his bike. But he came up with an idea. He cut a small hole in his tube and began stuffing dry grass, which he had rubbed into very small pieces, into the tube. Next he found a water source and put the water in the tube as well. He tied off the area so that it wouldn't bulge, and put it all back together. The water caused the dry grass to swell and fill out the tube/tire, and he was able to ride back with his clever fix! Moral of the story? Common sense and cleverness are the best tools to have along on a ride.... well, and good preparation! Thanks for sharing all three with us in spades. :)
Great video. I purchased 2 Steel bikes for my kids, just before lock down 1990s mtbs/hybrids. I fixed them up and they are great. Just showed them the video - "see! You can go around the world in these bikes if you want!!"
Thank you! Love this story, please say our greetings to the kids! ❤️❤️
One thing that might be well worth the weight of carrying is a cassette spacer or three (of varying sizes). Then you can use any cassette you find that has less gears than what you normally use. They are usually aluminum, but they even make plastic ones which are probably a bit lighter. The shifter indexing has the same interval between the gears for 6, 7, & 8 speed. I can't recall if 9-speed is compatible, but even if it's not, it will work to get you to the next city or town with a supply of bicycle parts.
...actually, as I write this, I realize that you could use a cog off your bad cassette as a spacer for a new cassette with less gears. Use an appropriate width cog, or spacer from in-between your old cogs to act as a spacer. There's almost always a few individual cogs, although often times the larger ones are a single piece.
I would recommend volunteering, or working part-time at a bikeshop for a period of time before starting a long tour. You can learn so much and ask an experienced mechanic for guidance as you work on bikes and think of potential failures and see many yourself. Plus + you might get cheaper parts and accessories if you are employed by a bicycle shop!!! The knowledge you can attain working in a shop is priceless.
Okay, I feel like I'm rambling. Search "Sheldon Brown" and read and learn as much as you can from there. He wrote 'the bible' on bicycle maintenance. Unfortunately he has passed on...but his knowledge has been catalogued and is still being maintained. His website has THE BEST information I've ever found in one place regarding bicycle maintenance.
Edit: One last thing. Every bolt (every part) needs grease or thread-lock! And bring some thread-locking product on your tour. For your wheel nipples you can use boiled linseed oil. It acts as a grease and a thread-locker. If I ever go on a long tour I would probably carry a small container holding about 1/2 ounce of boiled linseed oil to use on any threads I undo and retighten. Boiled linseed oil is also used as a metal preservative for shovels and axes, so I trust it.
I LOVE YOU TWO!!! You're such lovely people. If you come to Texas I hope to meet you and ride with you. I will feed you and check your bikes for maintenance issues if you allow me to. You could even make a video of me describing what I check on a bicycle tourists bike. Headset, bottom bracket, hub, and pedal free-play is what I start with. Then checking all bolts for torque (by hand). Then derailleur limits. And finally spoke tension and wheel trueness. Sometimes it's difficult for the rider of the bicycle to recognize minor problems. Any shop I've ever worked at will give a tourist a free bike exam and do a quick adjustment for free. With luck and regular maintenance, that's all that is needed. And sometimes with luck a good mechanic will recognize a problem and be able to fix it before a failure. Any good shop in the U.S. will also troubleshoot problems and relay the information to another shop down the road so that you can have a part waiting for you when you arrive. No good shop wants you to have to postpone your tour and will happily trade loss of revenue for free word-of-mouth (or internet) advertising. And if you ever do have to wait for a part, the shop will probably be able to take care of tour accommodations (free camping or a bed sometimes) if you have to wait for a part that the mechanic doesn't want you to travel with before being replaced.
The first bikeshop that I was employed at was on a very popular U.S. bike-touring route that didn't have another shop for 180 miles in any direction. We often had tourists spend a few days with us. One tourist never finished his trip and stayed at the shop for over a decade (by choice).
...rambling again...
Thank you for your comment and many good points! 🙌🏾 Great tip about volunteering in a bike shop, and sounds like you have been amazing support for many cyclists. Hope we can meet one day! ✌🏽
Nomad's Trails : If your trip bring you through Texas I would LOVE to meet you two. I would be honored to ride a few [hundred] miles with you as well.
Your videos make me so happy. I binge-watched every one of them as soon as I discovered you online.
Thanks for sharing your love of cycling with the world.
Happy trails and much love my friends!!
6 speed freewheels are not spaced the same as 7 and 8 speed. If you use friction shifters, this is not a problem, but 7 and 8 speed shifters are not compatible with 6 speed. You're correct about 7&8.
The way you presented this build made it look so simple yet so rugged and ready to take on the world. Loving this build guys! 😎👍
Love that you guys accounted for bike mechanic services in the total cost! Very realistic and helpful
I have never seen such a brilliant video explaining a budget build. Great job
Thank you so much, happy you liked it! 🙌🏾
The GT All Terra is a touring worthy frame for rougher roads. There are better touring specific frames but I see no reason to discourage using the GT here if that's what you have. You can even partially kit it out with bikepacking bags on the frame and front pannier racks on the fork.
Also, Univega and Diamond Back bicycles from the late 80s and early 90s are also suitable for touring, but definitely follow this list and look for touring specific frames from the mentioned brands if they happen to be available. They will likely price in a little bit higher, but you get what you pay for.
If you have shorter chainstays, the Tubus Logo Evo rear rack will help as it allows you to mount your pannier further back on the rack to clear those pedal strikes.
Brass nipples and 36 steel spokes is recommended. Also recommend the Deore hubs. I also advise square taper bottom brackets as they are more durable and more compatible for replacement during tour. They can also be more serviceable and you might already have an unsealed bearing setup that only needs a cleanout, new bearings and grease to be ready for your next tour. There's other brands of rim you can go with including the Sun Ringle Rhyno Lite rims. Anything double walled, and preferably something that has eyelets for stress relief should serve you. And definitely if you build your own wheels, learn to use a wheel gauge to even out the stress on the spokes. This will keep the wheel true longer, and make it less prone to breaking if you take the time to dial it in. Replacing spokes on the road is a downtime you may want to avoid.
If you run an internal gear hub then I suggest Spa Cycles in the UK for their chainrings and chainguards as they are a touring based bike shop that has extremely affordable touring parts. Sometimes having that chain/bash guard to keep the chain from falling off the big ring on a 2x or even 3x front crankset will be a huge relief if your drivetrain starts getting a little unruly in between servicing.
A dynamo hub is a nice luxury if you need power generation as you go. As most people take phones and map devices, it's handy to keep them charging throughout the day, especially when cycling through wild places or out of civilization for a few days. Definitely optional, but if you're about to build a wheel set it's worth thinking about if that's something you need before you buy spokes and build something up.
MTB Frames are better off being front loaded at a 60/40 distribution, so keep that in mind as you build yours up. As the thumbnail picture suggests, a Surly front rack is a supremely versatile rack rated to 77lbs of gear. That said those racks will require pipe clamp adapter kits to mount to forks without the required mounting positions. You can instead replace your bicycle's front fork with a Surly Troll fork for native support and support for a wide variety of mounting options including cargo cage mounting (mounting smaller bags on the fork blades). In doing so, you may be converting from a threaded steerer to threadless, which allows for more modern stem options as well as an opportunity to decide a higher stem height before you cut the steerer tube down. You can mix and match, such as running lowrider pannier racks in combination with a handlebar mounted bag on the Surly Troll fork, or just get the Surly rack with the fork and enjoy that broad top platform and pannier support on the sides. Better quality front racks will include mounting points for dynamo lighting, and you can also internally route your lighting with a Troll fork up into something like a headset USB charger (this is all just luxury but if you start with an affordable frame these niceties might be in your budget!). This fork is beefy and up to the task.
Thumb shifters or friction shifters that can convert to index are simply more reliable, period.
If your bike comes with bar end grips, you can put silicone sealed foam grips on those to give your hands a cushy relief. Long rides in the saddle can fatigue your hands, as will having an aggressive bent posture, so the ability to change positions is vital. I like butterfly handlebars. I like them even better than most of the touring style bars like the Jones H bar, or the VO Crazy bar, or even the Surly Moloko bar. Butterfly bars also make it much easier to mount accessories out of the way, though you may have to be more creative with cable routing around the bars and stem in some situations depending on where you mount your shifters and brake levers.
Wonderful video that was once again suggested to me and I felt inspired to share. Happy touring!
I also wonder why they did not recommend the steel GT frame.. does the triple triangle frame design make it a stiffer ride?
@@01234david It's absolutely fine for touring. I too would like to hear their arguments against it.
Watching you guys is inspiring. Am taking a 6 day course on how to care and maintain your bike offered by my local bike store.
Love from Washington
That is awesome! 🙌🏾
There are great videos in Park Tool page, well worth a visit
@@pedronalesso1464 Thanks for the info
You're not in Spokane, by chance?
Hello you two - my huge compliments to your journey. I am now an avid follower and am in awe of your great spirit and devotion to the adventure. I cycled along the Iberian coastline this 2020 year - had a blast while discovering a passion and love for bike touring. COVID-19 had nothing on me !! What I did was pretty raw. With a 650€ budget I went to good old decathlon and purchased their budget Riverside Btwin bike (260€). From there, i equipped it with similar budget decathlon products - saddles, rack, lights, camping gear - not changing anything on the bike. It was scary but it worked. Nothing broke, I cycled on terrains no one should ever even following the hiking trail of Compostela de Santiago. I got to France on the expected date to start working on the vineyards. All this to say is that I know nothing about bikes and their components and am very grateful for decathlon cheap products. With you two in sight my project is to build a bike as you did. It would be fantastic ! My question is this : do you think that the Btwin riverside 500 bike - link here: ua-cam.com/video/xItgXLG4XxU/v-deo.html
Labeled as a hybrid or gravel bike could be a frame you would recommend ? Again thanks for showing up and being an inspiration ! Greetings from South Africa - I’d be happy to host you ! @cam_acacia
Today i bought a 30 yr old steel mtb Giant Gsr400 and hope to turn it into a decent travelbike. Your video’s where the inspiration to start the project. Thanks !
This was already my plan to use a full sized mountain bike that folds and upgrade all the components. Folding for worldwide travel. Your previous video was very helpful for me and I wrote down all your components. But this video is even better. Thank you for your hard work at putting this together. Ride safe.
Thank you, and good luck for your build and on your tour!
Most helpful to dispell the marketing hype of pricy bicycle companies and the UA-camrs who are their pushing them for a kick back.
Probably the best and most honest video on bicycle components on UA-cam.
Just great!
I've been going with Shimano Altus, Acera or Alivio for years, riding a lot and have never had any issues.
There are cheap non-friction shifters also from Sun-Race.
I prefer 7-speed cassettes up to 34 teeth. They last longer than 9-speed, but they are hard to get with 34 teeth. 7-speed one can also get flywheels up to 34 teeth. For flywheel it's another hub.
But: No worries, of course 8- and 9-speed are also existing.
With a Shadow rear derailleur like for example the Shimano Altus it goes up to 36 teeth on a 9-speed cassette.
Chain: The KMC 7-speed, not the very basic one, 9-speed Shimano XT = CN-HG93 or a KMC.
I like the Shimano MT-300 crankset, which is a Hollowtech II one. 44/32/22 teeth, steel chainrings. Hollowtech II is stiffer than the squared one, but the bottom bracket must be from Hope or Chris King to be long-lasting and not having any issues. Shimano has many very great parts, but the Hollowtech II bottom brackets do not last very long.
For squared Shimano bottom brackets I have made better experiences with the BB-UN26 than the 55. The best was the old XT 72, but they no longer produce it.
Hubs: Shimano Acera are also not bad.
V-Brakes: Shimano Alivio or Deore with cartridge brake pads are good.
Everybody knows that Shimano XT is a good riding experience and has cult status for a relatively high price, but Shimano Altus is even better, because it works good and lasts long for a low price.
Thank you for explanation on how to build a touring bicycle that people can afford! Reusing older steel frames is awesome!! Also so many pragmatic componets. Love it!
Our pleasure!
Utmost respect to all who do this. At 63 I don't have the time left needed to find and figure out the needed skills. Good Luck to all.
I'm only a few minutes in, and already applauding the know-how. :D Your choices are so schewd and logical.
Sheldon-Brown type wisdom here.
This is great advice for commuter bicycles too.
Great video, so useful for many people! I started touring this way, really helps reduce the friction of going on a tour when your bike doesn't cost too much.
Thanks Samuel ❤️
hi guys and greetings from Ireland and thanks for the advice as a 58 year old I would love to go touring I love bikes and cycling
wishing you two all the best on your touring adventures
James
Thanks for watching, and greetings back from The Gambia! Hope you can get out touring soon 🙌🏾
power to the people and the dumpsters they dive in. my first encounter with true compadres in humble living. where thank you, thank you!! is the highest currency. peace and love to you and those you encounter.
I rebuild bicycles for a hobby.... usually fixing the abused Walmart models.
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I have one of these GTs and was debating how to rebuild it... this video inspired me. I'm not going all in with luggage mounts but can switch out some components.
Love from India ❤️. Stay safe and healthy.
❤️❤️
@@NomadsTrails come to India someday 🤘
@Block Chain why? Explain please 🙏
Loved your attitude and perspectives. Thanks for your details all around and Why!!
And more, i really prefer the disc brakes because if I do get a broken spoke or slightly out of true the brakes still function great, but I would get a cable one not hydraulic, lower maintenance. Loved your kickstand idea, I did a similar thing while touring Africa in 1995, I used a Masai stick which was really strong 💪.
This is a excellent video, old mountain bikes are the perfect touting bikes, also make good gravel bikes.
your component list is very comprehensive.
very well thought out.
thankyou
Thank you 🙌🏾
True, I use one 1990 mtb (updated many times) for my daily commuters, perfect
I was very pleased that your video popped up, especially as you encourage people to build their own bicycles and to learn how to maintain, service and repair the bicycle and it's component parts.
Although I still have my 1989 Specialized Hard Rock I will be touring and camping using a tiny folding bicycle made by Brompton.
That way I can benefit from multi modal travel, using trains, underground networks and buses, coaches and boats where applicable.
On trains, underground networks and buses I can use my pass so travel is free and I will be bringing one of my Alpacka Raft Packrafts to take myself and the Brompton paddling.
By building one's own bicycle you can have everything you prefer and be fully confident that you know exactly how your bicycle and it's components operate and are able to maintain and repair them without worrying about the quality or cost of having a stranger work on your bicycle. Subscribed.
Bromptons are interesting bikes for touring for sure, enables a different way of touring! On a long tour, tire and rim wear might become a problem tho 😅 Will be interesting to hear all the places you will go with such a versatile kit. Welcome to our channel! 🙌🏽
Brilliant work, I'm currently building a tour bike off a Gary Fisher Wahoo 26. It's a great project and very fulfilling to see it come together slowly over time.
Great video guys! Retro MTBs are the best budget tourers. This is full of great advice that isn't tainted by the marketing campaigns. The only thing I'd say is the headset suggestion. Although very cheap, those Ritchey Logic headsets suffer badly in wet weather as they have almost no weather sealing and do not last long! I'd recommend the Stronglight A9 headset. It's no Chris King, but a major step up from the Ritchey Logic. Although it is a 1" threaded headset, it uses cartridge bearings commonly found in 1 1/8" headsets. As a result, they need very little maintenance, replacement bearings are easy to source and offer great weather sealing if riding in poor conditions. A little more expensive, but worth it in my opinion.
All your advice about choosing drive components and wheels and frame etc. Really well informed, put together and researched. I hope potential cycle tourists come cross this and are no longer intimidated at the price of high-end touring bikes and can put together a reliable inexpensive rig, just as your guide described.
Great stuff!
Thank you, great input about the headset. We'll check it out! ✌🏽
I appreciate your approach to traveling, and useful content. You are wonderful people )
This video is Gold.. You guys did a great job and touched on some very important considerations.
Every morning routine Is one cup of tea and one video of @nomadstrails
Love it! 😁🙌
@@NomadsTrails you both are doing great but I don't like one thing that is you both not wear a helmet for your saftey. Please do purchase a helmet and wear. 🖤😍
You guys are real inspiration. Guess what during lockdown bought a new cycle watching your videos. Love from india
Wow what a refreshing terrific video, I spent my teens and twenties cycle camping all over the UK and Europe with the Cyclists Touring Club and its great to hear some good sensible advice about super strong utility machines from people that use them, I cant believe what expensive rubbish is for sale now, electronic gears, new fangled bottom brackets, all sorts of things that you will struggle to get replaced in many parts of the world loved your advice, you are my kind of cyclists and I will probably build a bike based on an old MTB now as I hadnt thought of doing it before....THANKS and happy travelling :-)
A very positive and cheerful girl. Your couple awakens a taste for life. All the best to you, Good luck in everything and mutual love for each other!
Instant thumbs up for you being the first to say, build your own bike so you know what it is and how it works 👍
Salute to both of u ,so far I couldn't get any other videos , other than yours who could speak, with heart and soul like you.I feel that you have tried your level best to reduce the cost, without reducing strength.
Inspite of having mother tongue Hindi,I felt your language as just like my mother tongue.
Because you don't want that any one should suffer on the way,and every one should be benefitted by your hard earned experience of last 10years.
Thank goodness your back.. miss you guys!
Thanks for sharing a good tip.
keep safe guys as always, looking forward for more vlogs.
All the love from Philippines.🥰
Thank you so much for this video. I'm getting ready to live as a nomad with my Trek 800 sport. Love our community! Hello from northern Colorado!
Yep! You give me the spark to reignite my passion for bicycle.i am nearly to finish built my Hercules squadra bicycle steel frame and 26inch wheels, just need 1pair of tyres chambers, front brake pads and brakes cables or wires.Then the bicycle will be ready for trip.Your video is both inspirationaly and motivationaly mean mental issues
Which can be useful in difficult situations. I don't like easy life know as"comfort zone " let difficulty be my teacher in this merciless world and face the toughest times like a warrior. Good trip and thank you for your video, God bless you both!
The bamboo stand was just what I wanted to hear about and the small amount of weight gain was a plus for me.
While I was searching for Cycle touring Channel....I found you... And all your videos are looks very naturally ......Loved Your Videos...Still waiting more Videos......Love From INDIA...
I wish to travel around the world love your travel
❤️
It's good watching you guys after so long.
Hope you are safe and healthy!!!
Thanks for watching! We are happy and well 🙌
Another option is to get a 90s steel mountain bike with a 1 1/8 fork (often hard tails) and replace it with a rigid Surly troll fork. I've done that with a 96 Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo. I then added a Jones bar.
That's a good option!
€850 sounds like a lot but it's the sheer number of components you have to have in order to make a fully functioning bicycle that pushes the cost up. I really appreciate the knowledge that's gone into this video.
An education in a single video. Thank you 🙏
Hi guys, I used to check everyday for ur daily videos. Thank u guys soo much
❤️
I'll repeat what many say below: thanks for all the work put into this video and for the recycling/smart/but also quality/durability balance. It's hard to get away from the world of just buying when broke. I've salvaged 4 bikes from my building's bike area which were basically left behind by people moving out (they were moslty dirty and had flat and other minor mech problems). Learning bike mechanics by working on those mostly and with videos and groups online. Though I am daunted by the amount of knowledge to gain , the riding makes it worth it. I hope you can get back to the trail soon!
Thanks Peter! yes indeed so many good bikes with many good components are thrown a way in some part of the world. you can so much by fixing and building bikes indeed, it is fun way of learning bike mechanics!🙌🏽
Excellent advice. I love your touring bike philosophy. It’s the best way to travel !
Great down to earth advice.
Big thank you & safe travels.
I used one of those bikes up good ones like the green gt all terras are quickly disappearing. Good bike. I gave it to my friend. Still ran great. You know your stuff.
Bri
I a long time to see you guy . i watch all you vedio in lockdown they are all awarsome just like i am there
❤️
@@NomadsTrails invited you in India when every things allright . love from india
Like very much the very detailed technical advice. Even if I wouldn’t do what you suggest, it is very interesting to watch. Have a suggestion you might find interesting: on my single speed touring bike I built up wheels on Sturmey Archer drum brake hubs. Completely weatherproof, very good cartridge bearings, and not expensive. Bulletproof. No need to adjust or to service. Roll really really well.
Happy to hear you like the video and big thanks for the suggestion! Will check those out! 😊
Nice to hear from you again! All this technical bike stuff went over my head. But very useful for someone who wants to build a durable bicycle. Stay safe and hope you can change scenery very soon❣️🤗
Thank you ❤️, next video is Vlog 🙌
Very thorough, that’s a build from the bottom up. Personally I’d be willing to build tires. Crankset, and that’s all for me. But I like the fact he and she are naming parts and why. I do recommend to know your bike- your on it. Great video
Great video as always guys! a lot of information in here. My current expedition bike is also built from an old styled mtb frame, suspension was substituted by a nice steel rigid fork for simplicity. It's amazing the sense of freedom it gives, knowing that you can go everywhere with it, roads... mountains... trails...
Generally excellent advice. DT Swiss spokes definitely..spare no expense on the spokes...even on a budget touring bike! Pro tip - if you go with drop handlebars then take a look at Gevenalle shifters...I love them. Also as an alternative to the Schwalbe Marathon try Maxxis Overdrive Elite...very similar and also made of kevlar.
Thanks Simon for compliment and the tips! 🙌😊
I've come to trust Schwalbe A LOT. Though, to be fair, if I wouldn't actually work as a bicycle mechanic, I'd take that advice more serious. Well, if there wasn't the problem that those tyres aren't available at all over here without importing them.
Still, for everyone who has them available, and doesn't work in the field, that's solid advice to shave the budget a bit. Maybe I'll run into them on a tour, if so, I'll pick them up
The world needs more of this 🙂
The info on hubs, freewheels and cassettes was awesome.
I agree with all this advice. These guys know what they’re talking about
Knowledgeable and very entertaining to watch. Excellent video, thank you!
My first touring bike (also self-built) was a little more expensive but it stayed under 1000 €, which I thought was very good for the components I used (used, older models, cheap but good no-name components where applicable)
Well done, keep it up!
I wasn't expecting this to be an actual budget bike, I thought it was gonna be one of those videos that call a $5000 bike a "budget bike" because it isn't a top tier $15000 bike. I hope to build my own touring bike some day "soon" and I appreciate the advice.
I would be tempted to go for the smallest crankset cogs you can get away with. You will likely need to drag up some long slow hills with a heavy bike on tour so try to fit a 22 tooth smalest front cog if you can.rather than a 26. Many cheap mountain bike cranksets have a 22 tooth smallest cog. I never worry about the size of the largest crankset cog as you wont be wanting to pedal at 40 mph downhill with heavy panniers etc. On tour the lower gears are more important than the higher ones
Very detailed and informative. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort in making and sharing this video. Best wishes on your future travels.
Wow thx! great tutorial for us that are thinking on doing such an adventure, and very thorough as well.........only thing is can't put a finger on whether watching this guy (sorry missed his name) makes me tired or dizzy 🤔
Great video! Lots of clear concise information.
Glad if you find it useful!
Welcome back!! Great video friends! Thanks for the tip
Our pleasure! ✌🏽
Nomad's Trails 😊
This is a no joke budget video. Wow.
Amazing advice! I appreciate how thorough and clear you both are 👌
❤❤
GREAT video! Thank you! I was looking at purchasing something to commute on, and instead of purchasing a new bike, I took my 1998 Gary Fisher mountain bike, swapped out the worn crank for an Alivio crank, installed a Wolf Tooth Components 34 tooth narrow-wide chainring, and coupled that to an 11-40 cassette with a Wolf Road Link and a Shimano 9-speed derailleur and shifter. I bought new 26" rim brake/disc brake wheels with Deore hubs for about $150 USD online. New V-brakes, which are very inexpensive, finished up the bike. I now have a decent bike with a simple 1x9 drivetrain. This is not a build for touring, but for running around a city, it's fine.
You guys are amazing, more power to your journey nd have a amazing life... 🙏🏼 Love from India
Thanks Anand! ❤️
Best video ever! Thank you so much for the best info I foundation so far.
Excellent. And the materials list in the notes section is awesome.
I have just bought used, but in great condition, retro MTB for 65 EUR based on this video :) and hopefully saved myself a ton of money compered to what I have previously envisioned that will have to spend. Have no intention to travel the world but I hope to do couple of ~800 km tours within my own country. Complete Deore Lx gear, 36 spokes 26" wheels - UKAI rims, chromoly frame with strong rear rack for panniers already mounted on strong fat pins on the frame. Will buy only new 2.0 marathon tires as suggested ( cost more then a bicycle :) ). The two things are that there are no holes in the middle of the fork for the front rack and the small cog on the crankset is 26, not 22... Will try to think something out. Thank You Nomads!
Great video. Basing your build on a retro steel frame mountain bike is spot on. Just change a few things and for a few hundred bucks you have a great bike. Good tyres, new bearing, a quality bottom bracket and dont forget the toe clips.
Thorn cycles here in the UK is my go to shop for all things touring highly recommend
They got some good stuff Nd make some good frames 👍
So much useful info! Thanks!
Good video! Don't forget to mention you need the thin spanners for adjusting and servicing the hub. I would however go for something with sealed replaceable bearings.
Thank you, a very good point 👍 We decide not to dive in to the required tools and spare parts in this video because video would be too long and a bit off the main subject 😊
@@NomadsTrails true true. Love your spirit!
You 2 are a true blessing I hope some day my family and I will meet your path
Tell then Blessed Be an peace and protection be with both of you
Hi, found your channel as researching on building on my own rig for north India to start with by early 2021... a really good reference video to start with... saw a few other videos and hats off riding through moroccon desert...🤘✌
Thank you, good luck with your build!
Totally agree with your paradigm. The early MTB's had frame geometries that closely match touring bikes: long wheel base and a medium upright posture. Many had all the rack and bottle bosses and, many had tapered, curved forks that help absorb road shock. I avoid those that have the cheaper-to-produce straight tube forks. One ride and you'll agree. Mine is an '89 Trek 830, a mi-range bike in that line up, but it still comes with forged drop outs, bombproof Shimano Deore group, (850 and 870 came with the DeoreXT) and BEST OF ALL: Shimano BioPace chainrings. This is the main featuire I look for in a MTB/Tourer. They absolutely LEVEL hills when loaded - or not. Other bikes have a similar non-round chainring system by Sakae. Just as good.
Because of the inherent robust ness of these old bikes, I sold off my expensive touring models and keep on using these. Get yourself a nice Brooks saddle and figure out where you want the bars - and go.
Very good video! 100% support the idea of 9 speed, more durable, affordable and easier to find!
PERFECT EXPLANATION FRIENDS, just real info, Good and blessed travels in the world to you forever!!
Good job with explaining all the stuff and I totally agree on the old frames. Went Germany to Thailand on a 1989 Kuwahara Cheetah I build. You already mentioned most good brands...I would put the late 80s / early 90s bikes from Koga Miyata on the list aswell. If youre buying lucky a bike comes with some mint conditioned Ukai, Araya or Alesa rims which are very strong too and from my experience I can recommend some good old thumb shifters from shimano for cheap. Friction shifters rules! Keep pedaling :)
Thanks for the input, appreciate it highly 🙌 happy cycling ❤
I miss your videos. Pls upload more videos. I understand because of COVID situation you have halted your travel but you guys can upload daily vlogs. Stay safe. Love from Bangladesh
I love that I found your channel, keep up the good authentic work. Your joy shines through every video! Love it!
Happy to have you with us in our channel! ❤️
Great video. Thank you for making it. Very informative
Thank you!
Two of you are really amazing and great thanks to your all kind efforts and sharing!
Hello. I really enjoy your videos and your passion for your experiences. While watching and listening to your words, I heard some words that feel negative...BUT is a negative word. Try using HOWEVER, it gives a little more lift or hope to the conversation. Keep on rolling.
Thanks Joshua for the feedback 😊
Thank you for the new content, glad you guys are doing good thru all this . Can't wait for more travels. Take care and safe travels, maybe by the time you guys hit the states I will have my setup ready.
Thanks for watching! We are eager to continue too 😁✌🏽
Awsome and smart video. You guys seem like so nice. good trails to you.
Thank you Andres! ❤
happy to see anew vid was uploaded & u guys are still kicking strong! thanks for the advices, just got my marin muirwoods in march 2020. waiting for other parts (such as racks & bags) to built it for touring around malaysia... cheers & ride safe
Thanks for watching, hope you will have a great tour!
Wow, I guess it was not easy to prepare such a good informative video. Thank you!
You are most welcome. This video took long time because of the content also because of some technical issues with the microphone 😊
I don't usually "like" videos because I don't appreciate the way it distorts my recommended videos. This video is so good though, I had to give it the thumbs up. This is all such great advice, so thorough, and you two have a magnetic presence on camera!