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Touring Equipment

Once you have decided what type of touring bike you will be riding, then you need to decide how you will be carrying all of your gear. Even if you are embarking on a short, one- or two-night bike tour, you will need equipment in order to carry all of the necessities: clothes, food, supplies, etc.

Panniers
Panniers are bags that attach to racks mounted on your bike. A fully loaded touring bike can carry two bags on a rack attached to the front wheel, two large bags attached to a rack mounted on the rear wheel, and a number of other smaller bags, such as a handlebar bag.

Trailers
Bike trailers attach to the axle of the rear wheel of a bicycle, and do not require any racks on the bike. Trailers allow riders to carry significantly more gear, but are much heavier than a set of panniers. Riding with a trailer can take a little adjustment, so be sure to do a few practice runs before setting out of your first tour.