A buddy of mine is planning a tour of the outer hebrides - train to Malaig, Skye,Harris, Uists, Oban. All on the road. What bike and equipment (recommended brands appreciated) would you suggest. Second hand bike purchase is looking like a strong possibility. Anyone done this route, any tips?
On road, any bike will do.
I've cycled over most of Lewis on a 20" wheel bike, but for Harris I prefer a cyclocross bike because then you can follow some of those interesting paths as well as follow the road. BTW the most interesting side of Harris is the East coast, but the beaches are on the West.
Uists are flattish but can be windy.
someone else was asking what bike for the Hebrides...agree with just about all the advice.
Don't know about make & model. Something with low gears & decent brakes for the hills of Harris, drop bars for the headwind.
Roads are generally pretty good so you don't need suspension or discs (but he might want them).
Buying secondhand probably is a good bet, my touring bikes are budget bitzas but the wheels are worth spending money on - good handbuilt deore/DT/Mavic kind of thing is adequate.
But I've seen (and toured with) folks riding real falling apart junk and they seem to do OK.
Tips? Go in May or possibly September. Riding something with 32-35mm tyres lets you explore the tracks & headland that are probably the best bits. You can just leave a loaded bike unlocked at a deserted dead end, wander off for a picnic, and it'll still be there when you return.
Did this route in 2009, also variations on it, loved it.
When I went in '06 I used my ageing 90's Diamondback mtb that I use as a commuter - although it had a new drivetrain, Mavix XC717s and Spec Nimbus tyres before I departed.
Luggage was carried on the rear rack - Tortec ultralight and ortleib rolltop panniers. Small tent on the base of the rack between panniers with a 5L ortleib water bag across the top. And medium size bar bag.
I should think I was a good couple of kg over the Tortec 25kg recommended weight. Took a spare pair of P-clips for it just incase .. although original P-clips are still holding out today!
Shoe wise I just took my SPD sandels - so with socks & overshoes I had plenty of options.
I'd go along with the Ortleib panniers as they are completely waterproof. A pair of them and a small bar bag for camera, wallet and bars did me for a fortnight round the Alps. If you think you need more space, you're taking too much stuff! I used a Tubus rack - very good but I was nowhere near 25kg - that would be bike and luggage!
Done it the opposite way.
Pick your time wisely as midge season is horrendous in Uist and rain is usually horizontal.
When I done it ,early June, it was perfect weather and I travelled on my old Marin mountain bike with rear rack and minimal gear to carry.
Would love to do it again.
Anyone done this route, any tips?
Make sure you go to the Anchorage at Leverburgh, Harris. It's right next to the ferry terminal and does fantastic food with views to match.