I am riding a girl's bike to Singapore. It was 200 pounds cheaper than the equivalent men's frame for some reason, it is easier to get on and off and you are less likely to bust your balls on the crossbar but all the same it is a bit a slur on my masculinity!

 

It has a touring geometry aluminium frame and 700c wheels, Magura hydraulic brakes which have proved very effective in those emergency stop situations and a 27 speed Shimano Deore LX drive chain. The Magura brake parts are not widely available outside Europe so I carry all the spare brake pads I need but the unit is basically very sturdy and should need little or no servicing. 27 gears make the hills that bit easier but unfortunately they don't do the work for you.

 

 

Deeply unfashionable in the UK but very common in Germany and elsewhere and ultimately far better than the fancy modern equivalents. Whilst riding it in it can be a little uncomfortable but once it has taken on the shape of your bum it is a personalised saddle that should last years. Has to be covered in the rain though - a problem for the more forgetful and disorganised of us! Unfortunately you just have to take peoples word for it on the comfort side since no one else's will fit your bum.

 

 

These come very highly recommended. They are 100% waterproof and extremely tough. Very adaptable so they will fit most racks.

 

 

These too are extremely good - pretty much the industry standard. An inch or two thick, filled with foam that causes it to inflate when the valve is released. They can be made to pack up pretty small and are very warm and comfortable. Highly recommended. My only regret is buying the half length version thinking it was only necessary for cushioning - mainly shoulders and hips. Fine if you're in warm climes but in Siberia and Mongolia my feet were definately colder than they needed to be. Available in a variety of lengths and thicknesses.

 

 

Nice piece of kit, if a just little less noisy than a jet engine! It will burn most fuels and is very powerful. Not so good for discreet free camping or burning inside your tent though.

 

 

Very strong tubular steel rack from Germany. Quite expensive compared to the competition but the Gobi desert proved it was definitely worth it. The lighter aluminium racks on two of the other bikes have both broken in a variety of ways.

 

 

A nice little tent although from experience I would strongly recomend a free standing dome of some kind - quicker. Have you ever tried hammering pegs into solid rock?

 

 

Like a Swiss Army knife only better. Most noticeable advantage is that it has pliers. Very well made.

 

 

As used by Matisse, Hemmingway and Bruce Chatwin.

 

Very bright for 20 hours and lasts for ever after that.

 

Comprehensive medical kit, including malaria pills