Originally Posted by
manapua_man
The other thing is that there's pretty much no competitive aspect to touring so there's nobody who is willing to pay out the ass for any small improvement that'll let them "win".
That is probably on the verge of changing, both state side and internationally. Check out Trans Am Bike Race and Transcontinental Bike Race. 'Fully loaded' tour racing. I've the idea for several years now of a 48 states race that would be unsupported, unlike Race Across America. Admittedly it comes down to being in shape and knowing what your doing not so much on the equipment for something like these ideas but these guys are going all out in both races just like do in RAAM.