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Just got back from a Portland-SF ride, 14 days, 797 miles. I rode a Kona Dew commuter, my dad rode my Specialized Tricross, and we had zero bike issues whatsoever - not even a flat tire. The roads are in good shape, so you can do that ride on pretty much any bike. Just make sure its comfortable.

For breweries - we weren't as concerned with them as you seem to be, and didn't spend time at any of them, but would have if we had planned them out a bit more in advance. The North Coast Brewery in Fort Bragg is easily visited from Highway 1, they did tours and had a taproom and pub. If you can book in advance, the Anchor Brewery in SF offers tours for free on weekdays.

You'll meet lots of great people in the summer time. Most of the state parks along the coast offer hiker-biker campsites, $5 a head, which is great for catching up with other bikers. If you want an extremely detailed guide to these places and a route, you want Bicycling the Pacific Coast as your guide. We met a few others with this book and those who didn't have it were envious.

The Oregon coast was beautiful. Fog usually hung around until at least 11am. One night we went to bed under clear skies and woke up in a 2" deep puddle - the rain can hit at any time. The north California coast was all fog. When we split from 101 to follow hwy 1 along the coast, we didn't see the sun for three days. No rain though. Good luck!

Two sets of whatever clothes you wear whilst riding. Wool socks.

Wet weather gear, at least a waterproof shell for your top.

One set of civilian/camp clothes. I like slip-on shoes like Sanuks, but whatever floats your boat. I hear flip-flops are popular.

Tools. Allen wrenches and small fixed wrenches for anything you might have to adjust immediately (brakes, fenders, racks, derailleurs, etc). A flathead and a #2 phillips screwdriver, or a multitool with those. Tire levers, patch kit, pump/CO2. Tire boot maybe? I've never needed one, but they seem useful. Spoke wrench, replacement spokes or a one of these sweet things, anything else relevant to your setup for on-road fixes.

Tent/shelter, groundcloth, sleeping bag. Sleeping pad?

Fuel bottle, stove, water pot, spoon. Water filter? I like bringing chopsticks, they're small and help flip things while cooking, but pocket rockets are more for boiling than cooking, right? I don't really know.

Camera. Notebook and pencil. E-reader or book maybe. Soap and a toothbrush.

Try to pack less than you need and pick up things on the way. Better to save the weight.

I've done this route before. The Northern section is really great, but it can get a little hairy once you get into California. Take all the detours you can, it can be pretty heavily trafficked. The lost coast section near Klamath is really cool if your bikes can handle it. Stop off at casinos for free coffee. Bring a kite, they're a lot of fun. Get lost in the redwoods if you can, try to plan a couple days. There's a great swimming hole (or at least there used to be) along the avenue of the giants near Miranda with a big tree sticking out of the water that you can dive off of. You've got to be a little more serious about planning your days as you get south, it gets more built up.

There's a great book that lists routes, good hiker-biker spots, local history, and activities along the way.

Adventure cycling makes some maps with milages and elevations that list campsites, etc. They're expensive new, but you can get used copies.

I would agree with what people have been saying here. I just rode the Astoria to SF portion, and even in August the weather is pretty mixed.

As someone else posted, this is definitely the bible: https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544

It maps out every day for you, with most rides being between 45-65 miles, which always felt manageable. The campsites are social places and cheap, which will be a nice start to your ride, but I imagine they will be a lot quieter at that time of year.

You could save this ride for the end of this world tour, if it has an end. It might be a nice way to see it out in spring/summer. Most people tend to go south to north, I met quite a few going the other way too. The winds aren't as bad as they are made out to be, though I believe the shoulders are often a little better heading South.

Maybe consider checking out Japan/S.Korea after Australia. That will be decent to ride from March going forward, wild camping is easy, scenery is beautiful, both countries are very safe (aside from the occasional low flying missile from North Korea...).

An Ogre is an extremely versatile bicycle and the people who use them come in all shapes and sizes. It's a lot of bike for the price, and a great choice for returning to the world of biking.

You could configure it with a do-it-all build, or select components that excel at road touring, expeditions, commuting, etc.

I only recommend investing in a great saddle. Something like the Brooks B67 suits an upright riding position. Which I, personally, love for touring. Combine a B67 with Soma Oxford handlebar and you've got a winning combo! The handlebar upgrade lends itself well with an ogre because the equipped shifters and brake levers are compatible.

The Pacific Coast bike tour is one of the most traveled bike tours in America. I'm a huge proponent of it. If you google pacific coast in this subreddit, you'll see a ton of results and information.

Not only that but there are maps and a book.

The maps: https://www.adventurecycling.org/

The book:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517787322&sr=8-1&keywords=bicycling+the+pacific+coast

I recommend the book. My GF and I did the full tour in 6 weeks about 2 years ago - and we took our time. Many of the folks we met were doing it in 30 days. It's about 1800-2000 miles. We started in Vancouver, many start in Seattle.

I've ridden bits and pieces of the same route several times now. Feel free to ask me any questions - I love discussing the coast tour/best campsites/best routes, etc. (see my profile, that's all it is :-)

I'm not sure how flexible your itinerary is, but I'd highly recommend reversing course and touring from Vancouver to LA. There are two main reasons, 1) Wind! Winds typically blow north to south during the best touring season and this can severely impact your milage. I can cross Oregon comfortably (not going for any records here, I'm an old man) in 5 or 6 days (but more is more fun) heading north to south, but I'd expect it to take at least 10 days in the other direction.

The second reason is that you'll get a very different experience with other people on tour. Especially through Oregon, where there are established hiker-biker camp sites at intervals designed for bike tour (always $5, no reservation necessary). If you are touring from North to South, you will inevitably meet many other folks touring the same route. The option to cycle solo and avoid the other tourers always exists, but if you are going the wrong direction, then you'll miss out on meeting some of the most interesting bike tourers I've met anywhere.

And a final bonus consideration, the view! If you are traveling south, you've got the ocean on your immediate right and the views are unimpeded by the road.

I found this book of limited use when I was actually on the road, but I got some great advice from it while I was in planning stages: http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393962849&sr=8-1&keywords=cycling+the+pacific+coast

I rode from Newport, OR to San Francisco a few years ago. We used a book called "Bicycling the Pacific Coast."

I highly recommend it. I lays out some easy ride days (50-60 miles) and has useful information about the state camp grounds, and even some restaurants and stores along the way.

On a personal note, if you find yourself with some time in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, make sure you see Fern Canyon. It was unbelievable. One of the highlights of my trip for sure.

Have fun and hydrate!!!

Enjoy, I rode this section early April 2015. Should be even more beautiful in June, too! Consider getting this book before you go: https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544

Note that some specific details are beginning to be outdated. Still, it is basically the bible of the west coast bike route!

P.S. If you can ride like that in training you're good to go. I find a pace of 50 miles a day while touring to be my personal favorite amount. Everyone is different though, so you'll find your balance after a few days. Consider a day off halfway through your first week to let your body catch up to the new lifestyle.

Personally I used this guide book to find both our route and our nightly campsites: https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544, but it looks like it hasn't been updated since 2005. Like https://www.reddit.com/user/tony3011 mentioned, it would be prudent to call ahead. You might also be able to get some good, up-to-date info by looking at some trip journals at https://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/locales/?locale_id=51157&doctype=journal.

Edit: Also, I would guess that the Adventure Cycling Association maps have fairly comprehensive and up-to-date info about hiker biker campsites.

http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544

Not sure this book has the area listed because I don't have it downloaded anymore, but its useful for finding the best sites on the west coast. Highly recommend it.

Just got back from Europe, we had helmets but mostly kept them for bad road/weather conditions. Not sure there's a really good reason not to wear one, and as someone else said it's not that heavy so definitely worth at least bringing, I think.

As for 'tools', definitely remember to bring some oil & rag to lube your chain. If it's raining or you're going over sand it can dry out your chain pretty quickly. I don't know how long your tour is, but maybe a chain whip/spare spokes? If you don't want to carry thall of that, http://www.amazon.com/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC is what we carried, which seems like it should be good enough to get you to a shop to have it replaced.

Can’t help with sleeping bag but just picked up this tent and really like it.

https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU

Also that’s such a fun trail ! Make sure to bring a front light for the pawpaw tunnel.

I've been using this one for quite a few years, and I love it! Really awesome small solution with great replacement parts for the whole unit. It's another pump that a lot of people swear by (including myself, but I am fallible like the rest)
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395611696&sr=8-1&keywords=topeak+road+morph

The route is very well marked. I brought a copy of this map but really only used it to find camp grounds.

I have some ACA maps from the trip, but this book was better written. I would happily send you some ACA maps if you'd like. I think that I have the Northern Washington to LA sections. I have no need to keep them around. I gave my copy of that book away to someone else towards the end of my trip.

I took "the book" which you can find here https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496184596&sr=8-1&keywords=biking+the+pacific+coast and that was totally good. The details get a little shady the farther south you get but I'd recommend just taking that. I took an ebook version of it too which was super handy.

A lot of hand pumps are tough to get skinny tire pressures, but I've had really good luck with the Road Morph. The nice little hose lets you put the thing on the ground and pump against the ground like a little floor pump. 110psi no problem.

I don't have much experience yet with stealth or bike camping above Santa Barbara (100mi north of LA) but you can look here for California State Park campgrounds that have a "Hike or Bike" camping option (click on By Feature on the left and check the box that says Hike or Bike). These campsites are usually $5-$10 per person per night with a 2 night max. I would try to use these when you can because they're a great resource. Unfortunately, many people abuse them by not paying, and the State Parks Commission is pulling them out of some campgrounds and not putting them in new ones.

From what I hear, it's easier to stealth camp once you're north of SF and especially north of California in general. A great resource for touring the coast is Bicycling the Pacific Coast with lots of directions and camping info. I think others may have a better idea of stealth camping options but that's what I know so far!

Few short suggestions (my opinions):

• Don't carry water on your back. Some people like it, but after many long days hunch over on a bike, your back will probably hurt. 2 of my buddies used them on our cross-country tour, and they both developed back problems
  
• Instead, use a dromedary bag. I went with the 6-liter one. Never filled it up all the way, but 2 liters in a 6-liter bag is easier to pack in a pannier or bungee on a rack than 2 liters in a 2-liter bag.
  
• Most regions across the US, you will always find places to fill up while biking. The time I found my 6-liter bag most useful was stealth camping. Having a surplus of water to cook and clean with, as well as left-over water for the morning was pretty convenient.

Ive been using these to great success: Shimano A530 Yet another half and half solution.

Some where about Santa Cruz they start to increase the price and add restrictions, like you can't pay/pitch a tent until a certain time and have to leave by a certain time in the morning because of the homeless problems.

$10-15 is still a great price compared to non hiker biker, and it can be hard to find places to stealth camp (although if you're broke enough I'm sure you'd be able to pull it off).

I also suggest biking the pacific coast. It's cheap, has information about campgrounds (like hiker biker), and has turn by turn directions. Also has routes all the way from Canada (which is what I did). Highly highly recommend.

Cool shoes! As far as pedals go, I'd get a combo pedal with one clipless side and one flat side. That way, if you decide to use normal shoes it still works. Or if your legs/feet start hurting after hours of keeping them in the exact same position on a clipless, you simply flip the pedal and enjoy some freedom of movement on the flat side.

I have one pair of these pedals on a MTB, and I don't really like them. They weigh the same on each side, so they never flip to one side by themselves. When you start pedaling you never know which side will be up.

I'd much rather get something like this, because they will always orient themselves with the right side up. I don't have experience with those pedals in particular, but I've got some almost identical ones made by Exustar and I like them a lot (couldn't find them on amazon though).

that headtube looks right for a person 6ft tall. For bicycle touring, slighter bigger frame is better than a slightly small frame because it makes it easier to adjust the cockpit for comfortable long duration riding

I would powdercoat the frame, which is way more durable than any paint. It's also cheap. ( you can consider powdercoating much of the bike. Frame, fork, waterbottle cages, racks, etc. Disc bike owners can consider powdercoating rims) Here in western Washington (Seattle area) powdercoating runs $75-$100 for frame and fork. If you do go the powdercoat route, buy a can of JP Weigles FRAME SAVER. The powdercoat process heats the frame to about 350-400 degrees which eliminates all moisture in the frame. Frame Saver AFTER powdercoat)

I would start the show by concentrating on the weakest link on a touring bicycle.... the wheels and the drivetrain!

Start watching wheeling building videos on youtube. Subscribe to r/wheelbuilding. Buy a set of Shimano XT 36h hubs and a set of 26 inch rims. (Velocity Dyad, Sun RhynoLite, etc)

back in the late 80's when mountain biking was new I bought a brand new Trek 950 lugged frame mountain bike. 24 years later I toured around the perimeter of the USA on it. The only thing original on the bike was the frame/fork. I upgraded all other components including building the wheels.

videos to watch

"How to upgrade vintage bike with sealed cartridge bottom bracket"

Bottom Bracket differences, why they are critical

American bottom bracket; crank conversion

How to remove install sealed cartridge bearings

How to overhaul a bottom bracket

EDIT! if you still have the spindle (in the bottom bracket) KEEP IT! so you can measure it for the new sealed bearings.

Just to be specific, these are the two models I'm talking about.

Chain This model specifically because it's the 18mm version with the Fahgettaboudit lock. The chain being 18mm means it's too large to cut with bolt cutters. The lock is also a Fahgettaboudit style lock which means it has two locking hasps, requiring a minimum of two cuts to remove the lock itself. It's a pain to get through either with a battery powered angle grinder, though that will work eventually. Angle grinder > any lock unfortunately.

U-Lock This is my every-day lock, and it's this one because it's the smaller of the two, which prevents people from jamming a jack in there. I don't know if you could even get it done without something like a 12 or 15 ton bottle jack, but I like the security. There's less flexibility in what you can lock to, but it's security is top shelf.

Also highly recomended

I biked that. I rented this book from my local library to use as a reference. It made things easy as far as what type of daily goals to set, tourist options, camping options, etc. But, my biggest piece of advice is to plan around the weather conditions. This is the single most important thing I have to pass on. I will let other people offer advice on getting your bike there and back and just go into more detail about my experience with the weather.

So, I biked from Canada to Mexico in mid-March/mid-April 2012 and this particular section was the most challenging because of the
weather. Although the Oregon coast is beautiful, it rains 350 days out of the year according to a local in Port Orford. So make sure to go at the right time. Not in March/April. The wind was aggressively pointed north. So much so that I had to peddle down hills just to keep moving. It was crazy! From what I remember the wind changes directions later in the year (I think somewhere in the summer months) and the wind pushes you south. That would have been a big game changer. It sucks being wet constantly and moving less than a third a day of what I was doing later in California (up to 90 miles a day in April).

All in all, this particular section of my trip that you are referring to was, for me, the least memorable and least enjoyable of the entire coast. Things got better for me after Crescent City when I took a route in land (and off the guide book) from the Coast to San Fransisco (good choice on my part). The wind was significantly reduced and the weather was much better in general. The highlights of the trip for me were the Redwoods just north of San Fransisco and the coast between San Fransisco and LA. Also, another thing I noticed is that because this area is so popular, you get treated a lot worse than most places. Lots of hippies, and druggies, and bums, and such hitchhike or travel south along this route. The bad seeds stick out in people's minds. Whereas when I went in land (and off the book) people were much nicer to -even impressed by- a vegabond like me.

I'm trying to look up what the wind and weather is like for labour day weekend. I'm not trying hard enough though. Look into it. I'm sure it will be better for you than it was for me and you will have a blast, but double check.


TL;DR: Plan around weather/wind/season.

The Anker 21W solar charger trickle charging in to a battery works pretty well. Use the battery as your main source of power, and top it up with the solar if in the wilderness/as a backup. The battery will easily give you multiple phone charges, and the solar panel can top the battery up pretty well. I had no problems with the panel strapped across the top of my panniers and trickle charging the battery all day.

The REI backpacking bundle is too heavy for a single person. You can do better for about the same price:

This tent is only $100 and almost 2lbs lighter than the one in the REI bundle: https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU/

The Kelty Cosmic 20 is lighter and warmer than the REI bag and can be had for $120: https://www.backcountry.com/kelty-cosmic-sleeping-bag-20-degree-down

Klymit Sleeping pads are great for the price. Their insulated one is lighter than the REI bundle one and can be had for ~$80:

https://www.klymit.com/insulated-static-v-sleeping-pad.html

I have a Plug III and a Supernova dynamo hub.

From my experience it only works in flat terrain where you can ride at a decent speed for a longer period of time. If you're riding in mountainy terrain you're going to be too slow on the climbs to charge anything, and while on the descent you are easily fast enough, you won't be descending for long enough to charge your stuff.

Also, The Plug delivers only 500mA at 5V and it does not increase with more speed. So if you want to fully charge a 10.000mAh power bank that will take 20 hours (of riding) in the best case (at 0% efficiency loss). Or 3.62 hours for an iPhone 6 (1.810mAh). But you're going to have at least 20% efficiency loss.

I would recommend using The Plug to power just one device and have it just constantly plugged in. Like this the device's battery will more or less stay at the same level or drain much, much slower.

If you have an Android phone you can turn on battery saving mode which saves a lot of battery. But the phone automatically turns off battery saving mode when it's charging. So you can't have it plugged in to The Plug and use battery saving mode at the same time. For the phone I recommend fully charging it from a power bank and then turning on battery saving mode.

Get a solar panel

They make The Plug sound like the ultimate solution to your electricity needs. But in reality it's more like a nasal cannula for your electronics.
A solar panel will deliver much, much more power than The Plug. I recently bought an Anker PowerPort 21W (non-affiliate Amazon link) and it works really well even in moderate sunlight. It has two ports that can each deliver up to 2.4Ah (almost 5 times as much as The Plug). So in comparison to the above examples that's only 4.16 hours for a 10.000mAh power bank (and you don't even have to pedal) and 0.75 hours for an iPhone 6.
The Anker PowerPort is also really cheap now at $60. It's 40% off on Amazon and even at the full price it would still be rather cheap compared to a similar Goal Zero panel, for example.

Use the solar panel in the morning when you make coffee and breakfast, or over lunch, where you have time to constantly adjust it to the angle to the sun. That's when it will charge most efficiently. If you can, keep it strapped on the bike during the day. It won't be as efficient at imperfect angles but still deliver more power than The Plug.

Bring power banks that are big enough. I would recommend to get somewhere between 10k and 30k mAh total capacity. Get batteries with no moving parts and no integrated flashlights that can accidentally turn on in your panniers and drain it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZKHN6Y/

Used this for everything from touring to grocery trips, been great so far. Definitely recommended. Also look into Old Man Mountain racks if you'd like some more options.

Yup. I've got the Shimano A530 but there's a few others that are variations on that theme.

Sometimes, even if I'm wearing my cycling shoes, I'll use the platform side. If I'm navigating some tight urban space, for example, and know I'll be going slow and stopping often. Or, even on the road, sometimes I'll unclip and flip them over just to give my feet a change.

I find being clipped in most useful climbing long hills. Pulling up on the backstroke gets other leg muscles into the game. Sometimes that's the difference between cresting the hill and having to take a break.

I used to wear toe clips with straps. This sort of thing. I find the SPDs to be easier to get out of quickly. What I haven't tried is the new style strapless toe-clips. I should probably give those a try.

I broke a rear spoke while on tour last summer - I carry two extra spokes, but the cassette on the rear wheel blocked the hole for the broken spoke, and I couldn't manage to thread the spare to fit without removing it (which I did not have the tools for).

Luckily, one of the guys in my group had a FiberFix spoke kit, and it worked like a champ. I was able to fix my wheel and complete my tour using it. Now I keep one in my kit - tiny and weighs practically nothing, but it can really come in handy.

I completely ditched my rear panniers. I went from this to this. If I can do it, so can you.

Having space constraints has been the biggest help for me. Simply forcing yourself to take fewer panniers will quickly force you to make the best use of the space you have.

The specific products that I bought were a compromise on packability and price. Tent was $80, sleeping bag was $40 ($60 now?). Bottom line is your don't have to break the bank to upgrade your equipment.

The frames are actually the (relatively) superior part of the bargain with Masi.

The components tend to be middling and the wheels are generally cheap and heavy. All in all, they are very serviceable in stock trim, but to get that price point something has to give.

Make sure you (or a shop/someone with experience) uses something like FrameSaver in order to prevent the steel from rusting internally.

I used a Masi CX to tour the Pacific Coast Highway and could not have been happier with the performance/cost/value of the frame. I swapped out every other part over the course of 6 moths prior to the tour (with the exception of the headset).

Good luck on the trip! I just bought this book on Amazon. Canada to Mexico guide. $10 used.

I've done the exact ride before. I recommend you camp at the state parks! This book has great maps and details for the trip:
http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544

I just got this book to help plan for my trip. It's been great so far, should cover all the basic questions you have.

This is actually a pretty good rack that I've done a 3-day tour and a 6-day tour on with my roadie. The Seymour 45 panniers let me hold a tent, a sleeping bag, and a bunch of other various items.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380651864&sr=8-1&keywords=bicycle+touring+pump

About a foot long, transforms into a floor pump. Easy to fill 100psi and beyond. Has saved my bad-lucky-flatted ass many times. Best there is.

This seems like a simpler solution to me than bringing extra tools. Haven't used one but I carry it and I've heard lots of good things.

https://www.amazon.ca/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

Modifying a frame is an incredibly silly thing to do. Use something like this instead

Edit: slightly neater version - just make sure you buy the right size!

I rode from portland, oregon south to San Francisco this past summer. If your unfamiliar with the weather patterns on the west coast you may want to check out the wind situation. Every afternoon a powerful wind would come from the northwest, and I mean EVERY night. I met many north bound riders who had to stop riding by 4 or 5 pm because the headwinds were just to harsh. either way i hope you have a great trip. Check out this book http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544
It helped me a lot with planning campgrounds.

I more or less followed this guys route - Bicycling the Pacific Coast, I highly recommend it. It breaks down the day by day and gives you good advice on where to stop/see along the route even though it's 20 years out of print. A lot of people I met along the way, I was traveling by myself, were doing the same route.

There's a book called Bicycling The Pacific Coast which is very useful for the whole route. I'd recommend getting a hold of a copy if you can.

Haha yep! Origin8 makes em. http://www.amazon.com/Origin8-33617-Drop-Ends/dp/B0013G6PB8

http://www.amazon.com/Brooks-Saddles-Bicycle-Saddle-Mens/dp/B000I0V0JM.

B67 saddle. Some prefer the original B17 but I'm a bigger guy and liked the extra springs.

I haven't done the Pacific Coast Route yet. I was planning for this May but going to Europe with my wife and can't take that much time off of work to do both. So I'll go next May.

But I have been researching the PCR for awhile.

There is a lot of info out there about the trip.

Search "Pacific Coast Route on this sub and Google, you'll get tons of info.

Get this book there is lots of info on the route, camping, side trips, etc.

I have read a lot about it and talked with a lot of people that have done it, but I can't give you any 1st hand info, "yet"

get a battery bank for your phone. it's cheaper and and easier to use than any dedicated gps unit. put orux or locus maps on it for cyclocomputer stats and offline maps.

I use one of these and get a full day usage (screen always on at max brightness). https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-20100-Capacity-Technology/dp/B00X5RV14Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1483032707&sr=8-3&keywords=anker+portable+charger

Dont skimp on vital tools for your trip or it may get cut short.

I've owned two of these pumps in the last 16 years. They are bombproof, inexpensive (for the quality) and have been the go to while on the trail, even with friends who own additional pumps. They also fit both valve types.

Highly recommended:

https://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1527808752&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=topeak+bike+pumps&psc=1

This rack will work. Best $30 bucks you'll spend:

http://www.amazon.com/Axiom-Streamliner-Road-Cycle-Black/dp/B0025UCXEO

I've used a Shimano dynamo and a Goal Zero solar panel and neither of them worked very well. For my next tour (Thursday!) I'll be using a pair of Anker batteries like these: http://amzn.com/B00X5RV14Y

Grab this book. A lot cheaper than the ACA maps and works great for the route. When I rode it a few years back, a lot of people used this as a route guide.
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494339991&sr=8-1&keywords=Cycling+the+Pacific+Coast

http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405709687&sr=8-1&keywords=biking+pacific+coast

Great little book.

I use a Topeak Super Tourist DX and couldn't be happier.

Axiom DLX Streamliner Disc Cycle Rack, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004094HY2?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I was able to mount this rack to my cyclocross bike which also doesn’t have any mounting eyelets on it. It worked perfect for me by putting the quick release skewer through the lower mounting points.

And then for the upper mounting points, there are two different options it comes with. Two adjustable arms for bikes that have the normal threaded eyelets on the frame behind the seat. Or a metal arm that bolts to the mounting point for normal brakes.

If you want to use the two adjustable arm option, you can buy a seat clamp that has threaded mounting points in it. Here’s that.

Axiom Trekk Seat Collar w/Rack Eyelets, 31.8mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0025UQ3I6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Here are some photos of my bike with both the rack and the threaded seat clamp.

https://imgur.com/gallery/5NFpk8M

Buy a new bike if you want. But you definitely don't need to.

http://www.bikecommuters.com/2008/07/19/p-clamps-are-your-friends/

http://www.amazon.com/Delta-Cycle-Stay-Mount-Clamps/dp/B000WYCJHQ

It's a spoke replacement:

https://www.amazon.com/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

Listed at: https://www.reddit.com/r/BicycleGear/wiki/spareparts --- you may find the balance of that wiki of interest --- in particular, I didn't see a bike tool set, or at least a multi-tool. I'd also suggest a patch kit, esp. if not taking the second spare

The Adventure Cycle-Touring Handbook is one of my favorites.

May want to consider a "fibre fix" spoke. I haven't used one yet, but carry one with me on tour. One of these should do you well enough until you get to a town/city where you can get your wheel fixed.

http://www.amazon.com/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

edit: here's a video of how it works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eF8R7psdtN4

You don't give a budgetary amount, so I'll just recommend what I use:

An Origin 8 Eyelet Stub mounted to the front of the rack and a Dinotte XML-3. The mount on the Dinotte can be turned 90 degrees, so you can mount it on the stub regardless of where you choose to position it.

I also found the MagicShine battery is a much less expensive battery for the Dinotte, requiring only a slight modification to the cord. I have a 3 ft extender that lets me tuck the battery away in my bag.

I get about 6-7 hrs run time on a given battery.

I highly recommend getting Bicycling the Pacific Coast and following the route it describes once you get out to the coast.

If your not planning on taking spokes I would highly recommend one of these https://www.amazon.co.uk/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

Inside seat post too, provided it's long enough, retained by a cork, rubber stopper or similar plug. Padding will prevent rattling noise.

It's worth mentioning that if your rear wheel is properly specified and built, and you don't overload the rear, then it is unlikely that you'll break a spoke. In this case, carrying a Fiberfix repair is the most you'll need, and it will replace any spoke without the need for chainwhip, cassette lockring tool, hypercracker-type tools, a bike shop, etc.

https://www.amazon.com/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

Almost everyone I met on my tour was using this book (and I used it as well). I would recommend it.

What do you think of saddles with springs like http://www.amazon.com/Brooks-Saddles-Bicycle-Saddle-Mens/dp/B000I0V0JM ?

I have a set of these: https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-33617-Drop-Ends/dp/B0013G6PB8 that I would like to get rid of.

Paul Comp makes something like that, as does Origin 8.

Most of my broken spokes have been on the rear driveside. The first time I was lucky enough to be in town near a bike shop to use their tools. I would recommend either the stein cassette cracker or a fiber fix spoke

http://www.amazon.com/Delta-Cycle-Stay-Mount-Clamps/dp/B000WYCJHQ

p clamps may allow you to mount a stanard rack to your frame...

Water is heavy, so you don't really want to carry more than you will need. That said, it really sucks to run out of water. I used a dromedary bag and filled it as needed. Ideally, you would get two to help weight balance on a bike, but it is a lot cheaper to get the same capacity in one bag than two smaller bags.

If you are passing through small towns you can always buy more water, and you can often find public water fountains. If you stay at a campsite, you should be able to get water there.

I got mine when I was living in the US and ordered it from Amazon. They may ship to Europe for you.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00629QAVG

I used this on my pacific coast tour:

http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Vicky-Spring/dp/0898869544

Worked well enough. You will be camping most of the time, but I would highly suggest making use of warmshowers.com

Bicycling The Pacific Coast has a route for you if want to spend a little time going around BC rather than direct.

Exactly. That way, when you make a stop, stuff will still be charging.

Edit: something like this comes to mind. Anker 21W 2-Port USB Universal PowerPort Solar Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012YUJJM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_eH5lybZA0M8G2

don't forget the battery

Here is a link to the book but if you only pick one thing get the ACA maps.

https://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Pacific-Coast-Complete-Canada/dp/0898869544/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497547375&sr=8-1&keywords=pacific+coast+bike

read this book (and start from Vancouver.)

I know some people who did Vancouver - San Diego and they swore by this book.

I have this book. My dream of bicycle touring died when I sold my bike, you can have it if you are willing to pay for shipping. The first part might be of interest to you, it goes through the logistics of touring and gear you might need. The second part is route plannings, and third is just tales from the dudes experience.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370837529&sr=8-1&keywords=topeak+road+morph

Here are some ideas


http://www.amazon.com/Surly-Nice-Rack-Black-Cromoly/dp/B001GSQULS

http://www.arkel-od.com/us/all-categories/touring-bike-bag/t-42-lite-touring-panniers.html#!/more-details



http://www.amazon.com/Brooks-Saddles-Special-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B001AYMOAY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367506572&sr=8-1&keywords=Brooks+B17+Special+Saddle


http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Alien-26-Function-Bicycle-Tool/dp/B000FIE4AE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1367506625&sr=8-3&keywords=topeak+multitool


http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=pd_sim_sg_10


http://www.amazon.com/Crane-Suzu-Lever-Strike-Brass/dp/B001MS2KHA/ref=pd_sim_sg_90


http://www.amazon.com/Velo-Orange-Hammered-Alloy-Fender/dp/B004JKK1V0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367506912&sr=8-1&keywords=velo+orange+fenders+hammered


http://www.amazon.com/Ergon-Series-Bicycle-Handle-Standard/dp/B0015QWRM2/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1367506936&sr=1-1&keywords=ergo+grips


http://www.amazon.com/Spenco-Classic-Glove-Beige-Crochet/dp/B0025UEWR0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367507174&sr=8-1&keywords=spenco+gloves


http://www.amazon.com/Keen-Commuter-Cycling-Shadow-Gargoyle/dp/B003Z4KPFI/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367507250&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=keen+bike


http://www.amazon.com/Gold-Bond-Medicated-10-Ounce-Containers/dp/B001G7QSS4/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1367507286&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=gold+bond

http://www.amazon.com/Park-Tool-Chain-Wear-Indicator/dp/B000OZFIMQ

Aside from replacement spokes and some way to attach them (multi tool or spoke wrench), consider a lightweight cassette removal tool so you can make repairs on the road - http://pardo.net/bike/pic/fail-029/ - and/or a fiberfix replacement spoke kit http://www.amazon.com/FiberFix-Emergency-Spoke-Replacement-Kit/dp/B001GSMQZC

FiberFix Spokes are lighter and smaller than cassette tools. They'll get you to the next bike shop, and are usable without removing your cassette.

I second this. I just bought one of these for my bike. Check the size of your seat post and you should be set!

I bought these.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DNG8DSY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_F-vxDb6D8EEXB

I use an Anker solar charger and battery.

I've been using a Topeak "Road Morph" and it absolutely rules. It's got a little flip out foot thing, pressure gauge and can handle high pressures.

I even convinced Topeak to mail me some replacement parts so I can rebuild the thing on the road if I need.

If you can slip something on the existing bars these might work for you:

Origin8 Drop Ends https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013G6PB8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KvgSDbG502Q1F

Ya, I may have messed up the names. But we were planning on using the route that is in "Bicycling the Pacific Coast" by Vicky Spring and Tom Kirkendall

Maybe call the local police station and describe your situation to them and see if they can help? Or find a local hardware store and buy the tools to get your bike back. OR, buy a higher end bike lock. After having my bike stolen I got a Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit (2 years ago) and use it everyday in all sorts of weather conditions, it hasn't given me any problems yet. I think carrying bolt cutters is a little overkill, but I haven't done much bike touring, so really don't know.

For the lazy:

Origin8 Eyelet Stub, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00629QAVG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Hy5Oyb5RRG7CY

sixsixsex already hit the nail on the head. However, thought I'd just make note of a fairly obvious point which is: Don't bring tools you don't know how to use! On tour isn't really a great time to learn how to use tools. And if you can't use it then it's just dead weight.

If your wheels are true and not particularly weak, you really should be fine with a pump/spare tube/patch kit/allen keys. Maybe a fiber-spoke if you're worried about your wheel breaking a spoke?

Err on the side of slightly too much food. Since this is a shorter trip you should be totally fine, but it really sucks to be 30 miles from anywhere and realize that you have absolutely no food. Super shitty. Same with water, although it's possible to find streams, etc.

Good questions.

There's these, but they're a bit stupidly expensive IMHO.

https://road.cc/content/review/228444-flectr-zero-aero-wheel-reflectors

I just use these:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Reflector-Bicycle-standard/dp/B00DNG8DSY/

I had exactly the same problem as you. In the end I picked up the Axiom streamliner DLX. it goes through the nit on your brake fittings, an then just on the end of your skewers.

It also moves the rack back by 4cm so you have more clearance. It's sturdy and hasn't caused any other problems as of yet.