My Bike

Here is a picture of my Trek 1500 road bike when it was new in 2004. The aluminum frame has remained solid and has served me well. Virtually all of the components, however, have been replaced. I have learned that components, like parts in computers, are regularly redesigned and upgraded. As a result it can be difficult to find replacement parts. Sometimes, such as when I replaced the shifter/ brake handles, I have found that I could upgrade the component with a newer and higher grade component.

Many of the Coast2Coast riders, aka Coasters, will ride recumbent bikes. We do not need heavy duty touring bicycles since we will be fully supported and not have to carry gear on the bikes. As a result I can ride my trusty and lighter weight road bike with its skinny tires. I do want to install the strongest tires available to prevent as many flats as possible.

We have received advice from Chandler Otis, the mechanic from Gainesville, FL, who will accompany us across the US next spring. He has suggested that we bring spare spokes (three rear and two front), two tires, a set of shoe cleats and a new chain and rear cassette. Chandler plans to replace chains and cassettes half-way through the trip in Texas after we finish crossing the dry, sandy Southwest. He recommends a full service of the bike and 200 miles of riding before shipping it to Bernie's Bike Shop in San Diego. I have discussed the preparations with Mike at Intown Bikes (One of the top 50 bike shops in America per Bicycle magazine in 2012) here in Atlanta. I plan to bring the bike for service and replacement of the yellow handlebar tape and installation of a new chain and cassette in January. I will be traveling for two weeks and it will be a good time to have the bike thoroughly overhauled and leave me time to ride before shipping the bike in late February.

A friend recently heard about my plans and suggested a shipment service offered by a bike shop outside of Chicago. Here's a link describing their service: http://www.shipbikes.com/home2.html
I am particularly impressed with their Air Caddy box design. Here's another link showcasing the design: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzS8mo79EjM&feature=youtu.be
Please send me your comments if you have used the service or the box.