# If you dont have a route planned out yet, either get to work with a shit load of maps from each region and plan your route to a tee. Dont want to find yourself plodding along a dual carage way for 17miles in the dark. Maybe invest in a Garmin Edge 605, excellent piece of kit. # Make sure your bikes are apt enough/buy bike that are apt enough. You'll be needing panniers at the very least. # Stick to simple components, forget drum brakes and internal gear hubs, you want something that you can bodge untill you can get to the nearest bikeshop. # Dont think that going lightweight is the issue. I had a heated debate with a customer who wanted to buy a full carbon roadbike to ride over the pirinees? (sp), all well and good if you have a support car, but he was wanting to toe a trailer... Its not worth compromising a slight bit of weight for what could cause you to have to end the trip early. # Start to build up a good relationship with your LBS, you'll find they'll be more than helpful and my even offer you discount on parts/kit needed. # Clothing is a very important aspect to look into, i'd suggest looking at some reviews of kit and deciding which is going to be best for you, start reading cycling weekly, always some good articles in there. # Brush up on your mechanical skills with a bike. The Haynes manual is a life saver so it may be worth investing in a copy of that. I'll try and think of some more things but give me a shout if you've got any more questions. Why does that matter? That shop is pristine, bikes are clearly laid out and there is a sense of organization in the shop. No offense, and i know alot of your problems are down to management, but your shops a shithole.