It’s taken me a couple of days but I’ve managed to pick up most of what I need for this wee cycle.
In fairness, once I located Bruce and his shop Adventure Cycle it all became fairly easy. Bike, bags, tools, shoes… you name it he has it in his second hand bike shop. So what have I picked up?
An Avanti Blade. It’s got a fair few miles on it, but what a beauty she is. I’m not going to lie, this journey is going to be tough on her but I reckon she’s good for it and at $300 with a 50% buy back guarantee she’s a steal! (That’s £75 back home).
Clothing was a bit trickier cause New Zealand ain’t cheap. A day of walking to every bike shop in town eventually got me everything I needed without breaking the bank. Although as a consequence I have a helmet that is not exactly a fashion item and couple of questionable jerseys but they will do the trick.
Packing was tough though. I didn’t want any weight I’m not going to need but at the same time I don’t want to limit my activity to just days on the bike. I want to go hiking, swimming and have a few nights out. I think I eventually nailed it despite my hostel room mates questionning my choices and looking at my kit with some raised eyebrows… but what do they know?
With the bike and all that I in a bag I reckon I’m ready. Time to head north!
Bish on a Bike 