Having spent months researching what bike I’ll need for my extended adventure in South-East Asia I settled for the renowned Thorn Nomad from Bridgwater Cycles in Somerset, England. After much correspondence I finally completed the specification and ordered the build. It was with great anticipation that I traveled from London to Bridgwater to take delivery.
Above is my first view of the bike in the store. An expedition bike is steel-framed, strong and robust. Designed to be ridden, fully laden, off-road and on-road in all weather conditions over thousands of kilometres – just perfect!
I then immediately set off on a 3 day “shake-down” ride before packing it up and bringing it back to Cape Town.
I took it for a 7 mile test ride before finalising the purchase. I’m very happy – it’s so easy to ride notwithstanding the weight.
On the left, I’m ready to set off on the 3 day ride. On the right, my companion and tour guide, John, checks the map.
We had a glorious 3 day ride in Somerset, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire following country roads and tow-paths along several canals then it was time to head home.
The bike is designed with S&S couplings so the frame can be split for transportation
Here it is ready for packing into the bike box before heading for the airport
