The Bike

Bike - Moots Routt RSL “versatility in a high-performance platform.” How I turned my Moots gravel bike into a touring machine (will follow up with a post-ride commentary on the success/failure of this “conversion”).

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SRAM Force AXS groupset – Modified the gearing from 46/33 and 12-33 to 46/30 and 12-36. This dropped my low gear ratio from 1.0 to 0.81. Will comment post-ride if this was sufficient.

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Cockpit – Swapped out Moots handlebars for Salsa Cowbell handlebars. To be honest, this change was made more for my gravel bikepacking than for this TransAm trip, but the flare and drop angles are comfortable (especially on descents) and allow for bags or rolls without interfering with shifting.

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Century Aerobars by Profile Design were added to allow for riding position options, especially on the flats (think C&O, GAP, Katy Trails). Added 50mm risers. These improved comfort, added clearance for the handlebar bag, and provided more attachment points for the Garmin 1040 Solar, SRAM Blips, and light.

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Fork – Swapped out the Moots Gravel Fork for the Enve Adventure Fork. Another modification made more for my gravel bikepacking options than specifically for this TransAm trip. A lot of gear packing/storage options with the three-pack accessory mounts.

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Wheels – Astral Radiant Disc Wheelset, White Industries CLD Hubs.

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Tires – After much internal debate, tubes won out over tubeless. Went with Schwalbe Marathon Plus 35s. Every blog I read about cross-country bike touring called these tires flat-proof, so we will see.

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Fenders – SKS Speedrocker Fender Set. Had these for my gravel setup, so sticking with them. A more permanently attached fender may provide better coverage, but these should be sufficient.

​Pedals / Shoes – Shimano SPDs (platform) and Sidi Mountain Biking Shoes.