When we first introduced the Long Haul Trucker frameset, there weren’t a lot of true touring bikes left. Sure, there were bikes with some features that true touring bikes share, like a low bottom bracket and long chainstays, but there weren’t many options designed from the ground up to be used for actual long distance bicycle touring.
The Long Haul Trucker answers the call. It’s got a low BB and the long stays, ample tire and fender clearance, and mounts for everything from fenders to racks to extra spokes. Plus the frame tubing is thicker walled and larger diameter than, say, our Cross-Check, and this pre-tunes it for carrying cargo weight. It’s stable, comfortable and fun to ride, even fully loaded with gear.
The entire size range of LHTs is available in a 26" wheel version, plus we offer a 700c version in sizes 56, 58, 60, and 62cm. Although many people (some of us included) like the ride of 700c wheels, in many parts of the world 26" is the more common size, so you’ll be able to find replacement tubes, tires, and rims more easily should the need arise. Smaller wheels are also stronger than their 700c counterparts, so they’ll stand up better to rough roads and heavy loads. Frames in both wheel sizes accomodate pretty big tires with mud and fender clearance for a smooth ride.