I always say don't focus so much on the bicycle but on the actual ride itself and things like camping equipment and other stuff like electronics, clothing, staying DRY and warm, keeping your sanity etc. You can tour on almost any bicycle so don't let something like 3 inch tires vs 2.1 inch tires distract you from the real purpose.
Originally Posted by
TallTourist
The way I see it, the cheaper the bike you ride the better, that way when it breaks and you can't find the parts you need to replace whatever you need to replace you can just leave the bike behind.
Best advice yet. I tour on Walmart bikes and just did a 480 mile on a Walmart tour on the C&O and Gap Trail. Didn't have a lick of problems. Also did a 2,000 mile tour in 2005 on one.. The way I look at it, the VERY WORST scenario if my Walmart bike breaks down on a tour, just buy another one. If you get the 2 year no questions asked replacement warranty for just a few bucks, that is even better.