Cycling North to CHINA!

Journey mercies Dave and Michelle!

Their bikes.

Mine - just the Surly frame for now with Cane Creek Headset fitted.

A U.S. couple, Michelle & Dave, are riding from Singapore to Yunnan, China (left this morning). I had had to meet these cycling adventurers and enjoyed the privilege of having dinner with them last night. We got in touch through the CGOAB website (http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?o=3Tzut&doc_id=3200&v=t) - where all the touring bikers hang out. It's the best touring bike site and a valuable info resource!

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We went to an Indian vegetarian restaurant and had a wonderful evening together sharing food and cycling stories. Even my non-cycling friend Brian found the conversations fascinating and enjoyed himself. It was great that I was able to offer some travel tips, at least in Malaysia and Cambodia which I am quite familiar with. Michelle is an English Literature graduate and Dave is Mr "Hands-On" Engineer who specializes in renewable energy. It's a no brainer why he prefers the bicycle as a mode of transport! The title of their website "Outside forever" reflects their passion. Our Creator has indeed given us a beautiful world to enjoy and I can't think of a better place to soak in the scenery than on a broken-in Brooks saddle.

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Sharing in the excitement of their adventure proved too much for me, and I just got back from Rebound Centre with a Surly Long Haul Trucker touring bike frame. This is a chromoly steel bike build like a tank and for heavy duty touring. The words in the ad reads:

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"The Long Haul Trucker isn’t the bike that everyone is going to have. It isn’t the next big thing. It won’t race like a champ or scream down rocky singletrack. It isn’t about impressing your friends. It’s a tool for finding out what you are capable of inside. Are you ready to ride?"

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http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

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There was a sale and I was sitting on the decision for a week. It was the nudge I needed. Sort of an investment into my dream of cycling from China and back to Singapore one day. Thanks to my buddy Chris who incidentally got his LHT last week and put this idea into my head. Should be pots of fun putting together the ultimate touring bicycle, if there is such a thing. Looks like a busy 2008 ahead.
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No, I have not lost interest in foldies. Just taking advantage of a super special offer on the Surly Long Haul Trucker. Got the last piece of 46cm in blue gray. What a great name for a great touring bike! China dreaming for now...

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How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them; Who keeps faith forever. Psalm 146:5,6