Cycling UK Forum

The bars are standard on the Sojourn WTB Mtn Drop 31.8

I'm guessing the 31.8 refers to the circumference.. I have to admit, I know next to nothing about these things, but the guy reckons his bags wouldn't fit. Not a worry, I have found a shop in Singapore that sells Ortlieb, so I'll try there and see. I'm stunned that at two shops they told me the same thing... so strange. Anyway, I'll head out and see what the ortliebs are like... although from what I see, they're pretty pricey. Will have to see... they'll need to be waterproof here though ha

Thanks! I will try that. I've got two weeks in April off and thinking that may be a really nice little warm-up for June... The only time I had problems with dogs while cycling was in France... at a park where I'd stopped for lunch, this German Shepherd came flying just as I got my feet into the toe clips... Of course, I was stuck in them and fully loaded, so I couldn't get going so quickly. The dog got hold of one of my feet and I was really worried about falling and the thing really going for me... I managed to get my other foot out and was kicking it through the frame... luckily, just as I was about to fall the owner came screaming and shouting at it. I was so stunned, I didn't say anything.. I think the owner felt pretty bad though... haha.. at the time, really frightening, looking back on it.. really funny!

Hi - can anyone recommend a handlebar bag? I'm riding a stock standard Raleigh Sojourn, but the bars are too thick to take bags I've seen in the shops here in Singapore... any thoughts?

Thanks for the advice! I've been chatting with a colleague who wants to make the trip. I'm a wee bit nervous about the South and like you say, there are multiple issues to consider. I'm married and have a daughter, thats reason enough to minimize risks. So, my latest thoughts are to do the east coast of Malaysia, cross to Penang, doodle around Penang and visit Langkawi... then fly up to Krabi... cycling from Krabi up to Phuket, follow the road north and then, closer to the Burmese border head east and up. I travel regularly to Bangkok, there is no way I'll ride there. So, at some stage (Pattaya???) I'll jump in a cab/bus/train and go straight to the airport to head home to Singapore. I think thats a safer route, plus will give me more time to meander and take in the beaches. I don't want to be head down, bum up the whole way. Dogs do concern me hahaha... Did you have a strategy? My friend suggested a taser lolololololol... I don't think thats a viable option. I would be interested in hearing peoples thoughts on the dog dodge...just ride hard?

Thanks for that... yep, I'm guessing I'll go through the 'restive south' ha... I'm figuring that keeping a low, respectful profile will keep me as safe as possible. Of course, there is time before I ride for things to worsen or get better... so, I'll definitely be keeping a watch on events there. Thanks for the tips too... I'm really looking forward to it. Am off to Bangkok tomorrow for a conference actually, so will be interesting to hear what Thai's think of issues in the south currently.

Hey, thanks so much for that! I will certainly take that on. I'm not keen to take major roads, would you advise a decent map? I know the roads are well signed in Malaysia, not so sure in Thailand (only ever been to BKK, Phuket & Samui)... so, my knowledge is limited if I'd need one or not.

Thanks

Hey Miguel, thanks for your thoughts. I'm not a big fan of western Malaysia, the traffic is much denser and beaches are not so nice in my opinion. This will be my first real tour for over 20 years (a long break... but I've finally seen the light) so I'm happy to take a nice flat route at this stage. I would LOVE to do Burma and possibly Nth Thailand at some stage... I also thought about Laos & Cambodia as possible shorter trips during my breaks... maybe a week or so. I live in Singapore, so it's reasonably cost efficient to get to them (provided I can take the bike at little to no extra $$). I've only toured in Europe (and as I said, that was a long long time ago) so.. I reckon this will be a big challenge. I'm just starting now, to get working to be fit enough for the trip. I've bought a new bike, riding to work (only 20km a day - but more than I did before) and will start at the gym soon. I'm confidant that I'll make it! Once I've done this ride, I'll look much harder at the more... adventurous rides in the region

I'd look seriously at the Raleigh Sojourn.

I've just bought a raleigh sojourn, I did a LOT of research prior to the buy. There are a few things that I would think serious expeditioners may change - bb-7 discs for the bb - 5's that it comes with... maybe cranks and the bottom bracket. BUT... for me, it comes ready to go... only need panniers, lights and a set of legs. I think it's going to prove itself over the years. Yes, I'm biased... last time I toured was on a Raleigh Touriste - late 80's... I loved that and hope to do as many miles on my new one. Consider one of these.....

That looks sensible! I didn't even think of that...Thanks!

I'm a long time resident in S.E Asia, but haven't done any real cycling here. I've become inspired... found the urge I guess! ha. I've toured in Europe, but am looking now, for a whole new experience. I'm planning to ride Bangkok to Singapore, via East Coast of Thailand, East Coast of Malaysia in June. I'm planning on 5 weeks, so that I'm not having to pull great big days too often. The ride would be unassisted, no sag wagons. It's nothing new, but I think it would be a wonderful challenge. I'm looking for a pal or two who would be keen to join up? I'm happy to ride alone, but... always nice to have someone along for the ride. Let me know if you're keen?

Ok... after reading a reply, I agree, it's a way way better idea to go the other way! Singapore - Bangkok... still sticking to the east coasts though. I'm still looking for companions if anyone is keen!

hey there, thanks so much for your tips... yes, there is a ferry from Changi that takes you out so there is no need to go across the causeway... just saw it on the web. I do need to get a rack on the bike, I will need some panniers too, but won't be spending much, I think I'll only do short jaunts this early on. I'm thinking of a nice little weekender to near Desaru.. may be fun. From what I've read, like you, I enjoy the humidity and a bit of a sweat! So, should be fun... thanks again!

Hi there, hope you guys can help me out with some simple information....

I toured YEARS ago, but have been put off riding after a few 'mishaps' in Singapore where I currently live. I've decided to get back in the saddle and am thinking of doing some light riding around SE Asia - leaving via Johor Bahru.
My questions are simple I hope... 1. Do I need a purpose built tourer? Or is my Trek mountain bike good enough? 2. Camping or rooms?? 3. GPS or maps? Does anyone have any relatively simple/easy rides from Singapore? Something for a long weekend perhaps?