Here's what Leonard Zinn would write if he were on the trip:
I think because we'll all have bike cases, we'll all have a little room to pack some of the real basics. Beyond those few essentials, we should all know our bike's set up and should be prepared for any specific need we think they'll have. I can work my whole bike on a good mini tool, a chain whip, a cassette tool, a chain tool, cable cutters, dikes, electrical tape. A new/good as new BB won't fail in a month.
What's most critical is making sure that your bike is in tip-top shape before packing it up. Aside from ensuring mechanical perfection, it should have new cables and housing, new chain, new brake pads, and new tires. Packing replacements
for all of these is advisable. I'll have enough supplies to re-glue a couple of tubies only.
The brand-new reliable tires part is huge. What's the point in spending a bunch of money to fly across the ocean if you're going to be on the side of a road fixing flats all day. I use Conti Ultra Gator Skin 700x25.
Another thing to consider are any parts specific to your bike which won't necessarily be found in Europe. Replacement D. hanger and/or seat collar (riding the pave--this may be particularly important). It would suck to wait for something to be flow over from the states while your bros keep riding/racing.
That leaves us with--who can bring a good floor pump?
I was thinking I'd try and fit my foam roller into my bike case. That might prevent me from being able to bring mine.
L. Zinn...over and out!