Saturday, March 9, 2013

Equipment top 10 list

Today I started thinking about my favourite pieces of equipment ... and ranking them, like David Letterman's top 10. I'm not sure I can rank them very well, but here's a start (read bottom-to-top if you want true David Letterman style)
#1. Honey Bee, my Gunnar Grand Tour has been smooth and comfortable. Today was especially fun coasting down the quiet winding downhills. Part of the credit goes to the bike design, and part goes to the setup including good racks (tubus), lights, saddle (inform, of course), and the bike fit. David Kohli from Perfect Circle Cycling is an awesome fitter!
#2. Our Big Agnus Tent (Copper Spur UL3) is light, big, and easy to setup (even in the dark).
#3. My new woolen jersey. I live in it.
#4. My bright yellow wind stopper Gore Jacket. I wear almost all day, except on the long uphills.
#5. My blow-up pillow and sleeping mattress (big Agnus). My friend Janice brought them with her to join us touring in China, and I've "needed" them ever since.
#6. My woolen long under wear bottom and top are the first things I put on when we get to the campsite, and take off "the chamois"
#7. My synthetic fill jacket, stuffs small and light, but keeps we warm at the campsite.
#8. MSR Whisperlite stove for warm coffee, tea, breakfast and dinner.
#9. Garmin Edge 705, motivates me especially on the uphills as I watch the numbers on percent grade and elevation.
#10. My rearview mirrors. I have one on my glasses and one on my handlebar. Between both I have good rear view on the flats, climbs and descents.

4 comments:

  1. Great ideas for birthday presents! Sounds like you are off to a great start. I wish I was there with you all (well except for the cold, brrrrrrrr)

    Have fun

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  2. I love wool jerseys. I finally got a short sleeve one a couple years ago. Right with you on the whisperlite and rearview mirrors. Need to see your blow-up pillow . . . never got the pillow thing right. Also never tried woolen long under wear - what brand?

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    Replies
    1. I like smartwool, but I've never tried other brands. Ibex is also popular for woolen clothing.

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  3. Glad I could help lighten your load and add to a good nights sleep...when the raccoons aren't out. I read backwards so it looks like a fabulous trip...look forward to more postings. I too do not understand why they're are not more solar panels...as I'm out shoveling snow off of mine! We have more snow coming on Monday...I want spring to come! Enjoy the ride!

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