Steel Framed Touring Bike (26" Wheels)

stiofan85

Hi folks,

I've posted here before about my planned cycle to Beijing next year for Crumlin Children's Hospital (see Dublin2Beijing.com if you're interested).

Unfortunately my bike was nicked last week, so I'm looking for a new one. I had intended on using a Specialized Hardrock (Rigid Frame) as it's strong and I had it a long time, so made the compromise on using an alu frame. Now that it's gone, it makes sense to get a dedicated touring bike, preferably with a steel frame.

This is where it gets difficult - 26" wheel, steel frame tourers are difficult to come by in Ireland. And they're pricey, very pricey too. 26" wheels seem to be essential for once I leave Europe 26" is the standard dimension of a wheel should I need a new one. Any tourers I've found have 700c wheels which is a compromise too far.

I've found one that seems to fit the bill: Thorn Sherpa (http://www.thorncycles.co.uk/models.html) but their shipping is £160 to Dublin. That's €200 I could spend on other equipment etc... so I'd rather not blow that much on something like shipping.

I can't really find any others that are reasonably priced (<€2000) and available in Ireland.

So my question is: Does anyone know of a touring bike dealer in Ireland that might have such a bike/potential to source one?

If I can't source one in Ireland, then I guess I'll go with the Sherpa, but I'd ideally like to find one locally.

Thanks!

Mr. Grieves

Did you see this (not sure if it's 26")?

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2057046703

stiofan85

Mr. Grieves wrote: »

Did you see this (not sure if it's 26")?

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2057046703

Talk about a coincidence. That's some list of kit and would be almost ideal. Only problem is it's a 51cm Frame. I'd need a 58-60 realistically as I'm 6ft tall. Might still give him a shout though. Thanks for highlighting.

Planet X

Failing the advertised Sherpa, Cyclebike off Capel Street can get you a Surly LHT or any Surly touring bike. They ship them in from UK.
Got my Surly Disc Trucker 26" wheel off them.

stiofan85

Planet X wrote: »

Failing the advertised Sherpa, Cyclebike off Capel Street can get you a Surly LHT or any Surly touring bike. They ship them in from UK.
Got my Surly Disc Trucker 26" wheel off them.

Oooohhhh - good shout. I'd read about the LHT but couldn't find a dealer in Ireland. Thanks!

Planet X

You could also phone Hollingsworth Cycles. They sell them as well and might have a couple in for customers.
You'd best throw yer leg over one first to get correct size.