Cycling Across The Country

So this coming summer of 2008, I am going to cycle across the country for charity. The Journey of Hope is a 4,000 mile, 71 day trek from the West coast to Washington, D.C. to raise funds and awareness on behalf of people with disabilities. My route is eaving from Seattleand two others from San Fran. This past summer I drove along with the team as part of the support crew (92 men raised $525,000!) documenting their trip in over 7,000 amazing photos.

So I still need a road bike to start training. Looking somewhere under $1000 price range, but the cheaper the better. I was looking at the Trek 1500 and 2100 series when I was at their store the other day. Any other ideas?

Also I was looking to join some cycling groups around Tucson, AZ.

Lastly, I have pledged to raise $5,500 for the sponsoring organization, Push America. The tax deductible donation goes to programs of the organization and we will be giving out grants along the way to those organizations who help people with disabilities. In addition, we get to meet those with disabilities and interact through various sports and dinners, seeing where this money goes. On of our main missions every summer is to spread awareness of the abilities of those who are considered disabled.

If you'd like to learn more, or help sponsor me if this great cause...

http://www.karlsjourney.com


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Thanks

Awesome! Thanks for the advice. I have support vans following throughout the trip, so I don't need a touring bike, just a road bike though.

Bike

tedr's picture

Sounds like a great plan for a great cause.  I would definitely start your training now!!  What size of bike do you need?  I have a 54cm frame Trek Touring Bike that is slightly used.  A T800 if you want to look it up.  Retails new for $1100-1200.  Let me know if this would work for you.  For that kind of ride, you definitely want something that fits you and is comfortable over the long haul.  Also our local Tucson Retail Partners, Sabino Cycles and Trisports, have tons to choose from and would do a great job at making sure you get exactly what you need.  They give 5% of frames and 15% off components and accessories at Sabino, and 15% off total price at Trisports for Pro Members of AIY.  For $25 membership you can save yourself some bucks!