Re: your worst touring bike

In 1980 or so I toured on an Alpine geared 12 speed.  It had the
safety brake extenders and I think the shifters were on the steam, but
I don't remember that for sure.  I did have Blackburn rack front and
rear and good panniers.  What I did not have was clothes.  I was
riding in Levis' 501's and Keds.  After it started raining on me I
stopped at an Army/Navy store and picked up some German army pants.
They fit like knickers.  Compared to the Levi's they where very light
weight.  I never did get better shoes on the trip, but I sure wanted
them.

On my next trip I had a full set of Pro Togs.  If you never got to
wear a Pro Tog Jersey you missed out on one of the great pleasures in
the world.