The Gear

So, after much deliberation, confusion, indecisiveness, and headache... I have decided to go with soft luggage for my trip. There are trade offs which I will have to deal with on the road, but in the end I think I am making the right decision. My routes through Central America include many miles of potentially muddy track which will be a chore with even a lightly loaded bike. I originally wanted to use plastic cases but decided that they may not be strong enough in the event of a spill. So I then opted to buy aluminum panniers. Aluminum panniers are strong, weather resistant, secure and fixable. But because of my route, I also must take into account the major cons. The metal boxes are just plain heavy. Over 15 lbs per box. I would then attempt to fill the boxes with as much stuff as possible, loading me down even more.

My decision to move to soft cases, I and others believe, is the right choice. Hard cases have the potential to break bones if my legs were to get caught under them in an accident or a muddy road spill. I have caught my legs under them several times in my test runs and to me, its not worth the risk. I'd rather deal with the minute problems that I will have with the luggage and see and go to the places I want. In the end I will go with soft saddle bags and a soft tail bag which will be able to carry all of the gear I need and more. All while lowering the overall weight by about 40lbs.

pics soon