I am learning that every item that one must purchase in preparation for a long bike trip costs $120. So quick expense calculation – count the number of items that you plan on packing with you (include here the panniers and other baggage), then multiply this by $120. Next, take this number and divide in half (this the cost of your bike once all the annoying parts have been replaced). Add the 2 numbers together and that is your total expense prior to the journey. Then add $200 for a bike rack for your car to prepare for the impending realization that you are broke even before the trip has started and that you have no means for paying for 2 months worth of food or shelter on the road, but that you can still drive across country in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost.
Once the car trip is over then pack up your bike in storage, take down you “Bike Across America” blog posts, and never mention a word to anybody about this whole ordeal again. Start a new life. Don’t ever ponder the massive amounts of money that you spent on the bike. Your stubborn refusal to admit that you made a large error in judgement will be the crutch that gets you through the remaining days of your poor, miserable existence.
I am not there yet – I still have a large amount of spending that I need to do. Starting with the Specialized Argali Wool Jersey. This mid-weight zip-up jersey is the perfect blend of synthetic and wool to keep the sweat wicked from your skin, the rain warm when the jersey is soaked, and the chill from your body without getting too bloody hot. Its also a biking jersey, so comes extra long in the arms with three storage compartments in the back.
I am planning on wearing this beast most mornings and nights, and removing it for a short sleeve shirt once the sun is out. I won’t mind wearing this around when off-bike because it has a nice crimson and blue color, which is unusual for bike clothing, which tend to come in bright orange, toxic green, and blindingly yellow hues. I will also need to purchase a heavier shell and a waterproof shell for when it rains. But that’s a robbery best saved for another day.
It’s not $120 but check this out.
I meant this. http://www.showerspass.com/catalog/men/mens-jackets/mens-elite-20
Yikes! That’s much much more! – How about this: http://www.amazon.com/Glad-Kitchen-Drawstring-Gallon-45-Count/dp/B00112PKGU ? That should keep me dry, and there are 45 to a box, which means I can layer.
Nice. Those are easily customizable too! A little duct tape and you can have this gem.
http://www.velo-touren.ch/Suedspanien-F-CH-06/Bilder/Poncho.404.jpg