SchullieRinger said:
I haven't found much about this bike as far as reviews go. Anyone have any opinions of this bike for touring? I'm looking for something to use both for commuting and touring. I think the bike would be great for commuting, but since I have not toured yet I am inexperienced in that area.
It has an aluminum frame which concerns me, but is supposed to be built for touring. Any thoughts or experiences?
Thanks.
Reviews at URL:
<http://www.roadbikereview.com/2003%2CRoad%2CBike/Giant%20Bicycle%20Inc./PRD_138776_4338crx.aspx#reviews>
It looks like you should check which rack configurations you will use before you buy the bicycle. If Old Man Mountain racks work, they are reasonable quality.
It also sounds like there were disc caliper pad issues that should be resolved with replacements from the dealer.
I would want lower gearing for loaded touring. I would check into what the dealer would do to swap out the existing crank/bottom bracket/front derailer for the 2005 LX set-up.
Further, I would ask about wheel, tires, seat, etc. upgrades.
The hubs and rims should be fine... but I would check for tension balancing, proper tension, spoke alignment, and stress relieving. I would use 14/15 double butted DT or Sapim spokes.
I am not a fan of STI for loaded touring. I would ask for Shimano bar end shifters instead. You could then get brake levers that meet your ergonomic and functional requirements... and they might also work better with the disc brakes. Since the disc are Avid, I would ask them about the caliper pad issue directly.